Courses and Conferences

Grief is a naturally complicated experience for those who suffer the loss of a strong attachment. This major life stressor typically manifests in periods of deliberating pain and acute grief that eventually is neutralized with an adaptation to a 'new normal' and a reinvestment in life. For a long time there has been a sensitivity by clinicians and researchers to refrain from pathologizing this natural condition, however the risk for neglecting the signs of an impairing disorder is one of the reasons that complicated grief (CG) has been added to the DSM-V. Evidence indicates that about 10% of bereaved individuals will experience CG. In this workshop participants will learn: What are the dynamics that complicate grief? The criteria for diagnosis of CG. A review of the assessment tools for CG. Considerations for treatment and how these impact current managed care standards. Political and social norms.