Objectives

1. Apply attachment theory principles to case conceptualization of clients experiencing grief.
2. Evaluate the three stages of the EFIT model to inform clinical treatment interventions for grief-related symptoms.
3. Describe four pre- and post-loss attachment-related factors and their clinical implications.
4. Apply the CARE model to contextualize clients’ loss experiences within their attachment history.
5. Create imaginal encounters for grieving clients to evoke adaptive emotion, facilitate self-compassion, and provide attachment resources.
6. Employ at least three interventions focused on reflecting and understanding clients’ grief-related emotions.

Outline Attachment Science and Grief:
The model known for love also deals with loss

• The attachment view of love and loss
• Grief trajectories and the key role of resilience
• Implications of specific types of losses (e.g., anticipatory, traumatic, non-death losses)
• Pre- and post-loss factors

The EFIT Guide to Early Sessions:
Making assessments process-oriented and therapeutic

• How to build a safe-haven alliance
• The view of self in relationship from a developmental attachment perspective
• CARE model: Tuning in and staying attuned to four main channels
• Guidelines for gauging the process and charting the course of therapy

Stabilization, Restructuring, and Consolidation:
EFIT stages and steps

• The organic model of growth and change - working with vulnerability and spotting negative cycles of coping
• EFT “Tango” across stages
  • Mirroring/reflecting present process
  • Affect assembly and deepening
  • Choreographing engaged encounters with self and others
  • Processing these choreographed encounters to create emotional balance
  • Integrating and validating new experience
• How and when to use micro interventions of evocative questioning, reflection, and interpretation
• Case studies
• Limitations of the research and potential risks

Target Audience

• Counselors
• Psychologists
• Psychotherapists
• Social Workers
• Marriage & Family Therapists
• Addiction Counselors
• Case Managers
• Psychiatrists
• Mental Health Professionals