Overview
Course Description

“Understanding and Treating Complicated Grief” is a course designed to provide mental health professionals with a comprehensive understanding of complicated grief, its causes, and effective treatment approaches. Complicated grief is a debilitating and distressing condition that can significantly impair an individual’s ability to function and adjust after the death of a loved one. This course will cover the definition, prevalence, and diagnostic criteria for complicated grief, as well as the various theoretical perspectives on its causes and maintenance.

The course will also explore evidence-based treatments for complicated grief, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and prolonged exposure therapy. Additionally, the course will address the intersection of complicated grief and trauma, including the assessment and treatment of traumatic grief and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Cultural considerations in treating complicated grief will also be discussed, including how culture can influence the experience of grief and attitudes towards mental health treatment, as well as strategies for culturally sensitive treatment.

Practical issues in treating complicated grief, such as noncompliance, relapse, and family involvement in treatment, will also be covered, as well as ethical considerations in treating complicated grief.

Throughout the course, participants will have the opportunity to engage in case studies, group discussions, and experiential exercises to reinforce the concepts learned. The course is designed for mental health professionals who work with clients experiencing grief and loss, including psychologists, social workers, counselors, and other mental health practitioners.