To live is to experience loss – small losses and major losses. Loss of a loved one, loss of a child, loss of health, loss of confidence, loss of a job, loss of special meaningful possessions and money, loss of a relationship, loss of the zest for life ….
Whatever the loss, people tend to respond in predictable ways and along a predictable pathway, though they may get stuck at any one stage. The stages include:- DABDA (shock and numbness), Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance (and moving on) (Elizabeth Kubler-Ross)
The Counsellor or Psychotherapist will ascertain at what stage the client is at when they first come for help and explore each necessary stage with the aim of reaching A – acceptance and moving on. Clients will be unlikely to improve if they do not experience and deal with each stage of the process of grieving. Each stage will vary in intensity and in how long it lasts and this will vary with each individual and the nature of the loss or bereavement.