What Does a Bereavement Counselor Do?
Bereavement counselors, sometimes known as grief counselors, receive special training to help adults and children cope with the death of a loved one. This type of counseling can take place in a number of settings, including phone, internet and specific locations for groups or individuals.
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Skills
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An effective bereavement counselor is compassionate, non judgmental and emotionally stable. The counselor should be comfortable with the reality of death and able to speak openly about this topic.
Outreach
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According to Ennis Gilbert, Bereavement Coordinator for a hospice organization in Newport News, VA, outreach is the most important aspect of this job. Mr. Gilbert states, "Bereavement counselors reach out to clients who need help getting through the grieving process. If I cannot provide what they need I refer them to other health professionals."
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Individual Counseling
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The bereavement counselor works with clients individually to help process the emotions from a loved one's death. A large part of this type of counseling involves simply being present with the client rather than leading the experience.
Group Counseling
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The bereavement counselor organizes and leads regular group therapy sessions. In the group session, people who have experienced the death of a loved one share their stories and emotions.
Workplace
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A bereavement counselor works in hospitals, hospice organizations, government or private practice. Bereavement counselors usually work with social workers and other types of counselors.
Education
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A bachelor's degree with an emphasis in bereavement or grief counseling is usually required. A Masters degree in social work, psychology or bereavement studies is also recommended.
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