Narrative Therapy in the Face of Grief

In this course, Professor Gerald Monk (San Diego State University) demonstrates a narrative approach with Cindy, a client grieving for the recent losses of her beloved cousin, aunt, and two friends. Cindy, a nurse/caregiver, begins the session with a declaration that she is “numb”, “disconnected” and feeling like she is not grieving appropriately - thus being “disrespectful” to her cherished cousin. Through masterful reflection back to Cindy, Professor Monk helps the deeper narrative ? of Cindy wanting to relinquish her long-term role of the “strong”, “stoic” one ? to become visible. Through attention to not only Cindy's words but also her emotional and physical responses in session, Professor Monk picks up on the “green shoots” of a more helpful narrative, “growing” them as the session progresses until Cindy is able to own a more helpful developing narrative of strength and compassion to self as well as others.