Description of Content
Bereavement is found in most of the clinical population in the field of psychology, whether it is a loss of a friend or relative, self-esteem, familial transitions, happiness, etc. Psychologists do not get the training they need to assess and treat bereavement, and often go into these issues unaware of the unique symptoms and nature of the bereavement process, assuming the traditional Kunbler-Ross model is still the hallmark for bereavement treatment. As a result, they are under prepared, often working outside their area of competence without being aware of doing so. Additionally, psychologists continue to become more aware of the multi-faceted functioning of the human being, such as the influence of intra- and interpersonal development, relationships, spirituality, biological responses and well-being, and the systemic influences on the person. Therefore, psychologists need to become more proficient in evaluating these dimensions. Integral psychology affords the practitioner with a tool to accomplish such an assessment using a theoretically coherent construct outside of the traditional models (i.e., Humanistic, Psychoanalytic, and Behavioral) of psychology. With good assessment, a tailored treatment approach is more comprehensive and feasible. Additionally, being aware of alternative modalities of treatment in conjunction with traditional interventions provides the client with a more rich and comprehensive treatment plan.
The Integral model and Bereavement theories have never been combined. This workshop will inform the participant of the Integral model of psychology and explore the models and symptoms of bereavement. Then the two fields will be merged to form a model for assessment and treatment for bereavement treatment.