Sample interview questions: Can you describe your experience working with children who have experienced loss or grief?
Sample answer:
Through my years as a play therapist, I have had the privilege of working with numerous children who have experienced profound loss or grief. Each child’s journey is unique, but there are some common themes that often arise:
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Difficulty expressing emotions: Children may struggle to verbalize their feelings, often resorting to play or nonverbal communication to express their grief.
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Changes in behavior: Grief can manifest in various behavioral changes, such as withdrawal, irritability, acting out, or regression to earlier developmental stages.
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Preoccupation with the loss: Children may become fixated on the person or pet they have lost, constantly talking about them or engaging in activities that remind them of the loss.
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Sense of guilt or responsibility: Some children may blame themselves for the loss or feel responsible for preventing it, leading to feelings of guilt and shame.
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Fear and anxiety: Grief can trigger fears and anxieties about the future, leading to difficulty sleeping, nightmares, or separation anxiety.
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Difficulty concentrating: The emotional turmoil of grief can impact a child’s ability to focus and concentrate, affecting their academic performance and social interactions.
In my work with these children, I utilize various play therapy techniques to help them process their grief and facilitate healing:
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Sand tray therapy: This technique allows children to create a miniature world using sand, figurines, and other objects, providing a safe space to express their emotions and explore their grief.
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Expressive arts therapy: This involves using art materials such as paint… Read full answer