Emotions are strong after the loss of a loved one and cause people to react differently
Pet Bereavement Counselling – What not to say to a Grieving Person
As a pet bereavement counsellor, you need to be emphatic towards the bereaved person who you are counselling. The loss of a pet is an extremely traumatic time for a pet owner, and the person is likely to be in a very emotional state of mind. This is a time when the person is feeling a sense of loss, depression, and is probably haunted with memories of the times spent with the lost pet that has probably lived with them for several years.
Here are a few pointers about what to say and not say which you, as a pet bereavement counsellor could follow, in order to build a better rapport with your subject:
What to say:
- Take out time to think, to listen carefully to what the person says and try to see things from their point of view, and communicate to them accordingly.
- Be short and precise in your responses.
- Be tactful l while responding, and try not to use the kind of language that would be likely to offend the person.
- Be responsive, and make the person aware that you are focusing on what they have to say to you.
What not to say:
- Keep questions to a bare minimum – it is better for the bereaved person to do most of the talking. Remember, talking and sharing grief with someone is an effective form of therapy.
- While asking questions, think carefully before you speak, and ensure that your questions do not offend or upset the bereaved person in any way.
- Avoid using clichés in your conversation, as that might impart a flippant flavour to your responses.
- While listening to the person, do not say “I understand”, if you do not. Seek clarification, if the person is being a bit vague.
- Do not give advice, as this might seem like preaching.
- Refrain from parroting the person’s words.
- Be emphatic, sympathetic, and prove it by agreeing with the bereaved person, by paraphrasing from time to time.
If you follow these simple steps while interacting with a bereaved person, you will be able to perform efficiently as a pet bereavement counsellor.
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