When a client dies by suicide: a compassionate and practical exploration of therapists' experience and support.

The death of a client by suicide is one of the most challenging experiences a therapist can face. While much attention is rightly given to suicide prevention, far less is said about the impact on the practitioner when a client dies.

This session offers therapists, supervisors and others in the helping professions, a compassionate and practical exploration of what therapists may experience following the suicide of a client. Drawing on clinical literature, professional guidance, and the realities of therapeutic practice, we will consider the emotional, ethical, and professional questions that can arise in the aftermath of such a loss.

Together, we will explore common reactions including shock, grief, self-doubt, hindsight, professional scrutiny, and the challenge of returning to practice. We will also consider the role of supervision, peer support, organisational responses, and self-care during this difficult period.

This is not a therapy group, supervision session, or forum for detailed personal disclosures. Rather, it is an opportunity to develop understanding of a rarely discussed aspect of therapeutic work, increase preparedness, and reflect on how therapists can navigate the professional and personal impact of client suicide.

You will leave with reflective frameworks and points of support that you can integrate into your practise.

Description supplied by the event organiser.