Prolonged Grief Disorder

This is a relatively new term used to describe a form of grief that is persistent, pervasive and that causes impairments in functioning. People with prolonged grief experience intense longing/yearning for their loved ones, are preoccupied with thoughts and memories of their loved one and often engage in behaviors to avoid triggers of grief. This type of grief often prolongs the acute feelings of immediate loss, prevents the person from moving forward and blocks their ability to connect with others. Researchers have suggested that most people who have Prolonged Grief Disorder had an especially strong and rewarding relationship with the person they have lost. It is a common misperception that ambivalent or conflictual relationships cause prolonged grief although these types of relationships certainly occur.

For each client I individualize their treatment plans and interventions so that they fit the unique circumstances they are dealing with. Within these tailored treatments, I also include elements of Prolonged Grief Disorder Therapy (PGDT), which focuses on promoting healing milestones and addressing stuck points in adapting to loss.

Complicated Grief

Complicated grief is often thought of as a combination of a difficult grieving process that also has elements of trauma symptoms associated with it. It tends to occur when there are very difficult circumstances surrounding a loss that make the grieving process difficult and complex. This can be when the loss is tragic, sudden, violent, or when the loss is private, unrecognized, or unsupported. It can also happen when there is a lot of responsibility, guilt or shame associated with the loss for the grieving person. Therapy can help you to process what has happened.