What Are Some Examples of Specific, Evidence-informed OT Interventions For Grief and Loss?
Question
What are some examples of specific, evidence-informed OT interventions for grief and loss?
Answer
Effective OT interventions range from expressive journaling and art to sensory-based activities such as the Five Senses Heart Activity, in which children use sensory memories to process their loss. Practitioners also utilize nature-based rituals, such as planting memorial trees, and animal-assisted therapy to provide non-judgmental comfort and emotional opening. Additionally, creating a personalized Comfort Box filled with sensory tools, such as weighted blankets or calming essential oils, empowers children to manage their own emotional regulation.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Addressing Children's Grief Head On From An Occupational Therapy Perspective, presented by Elizabeth Reymann, OTR/L.
Elizabeth Reymann
OTR/L
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