Grief and At-Risk Behavior: A Look at the Effectiveness of Grief Counseling Groups for Adolescents in Public Schools

Brief Description: This presentation will explore the affects that grief has on adolescents, including at–risk behaviors, identity confusion, issues of self-worth, and many more. The presentation will illustrate the positive impact that grief counseling groups have among adolescents (with a special focus in the public school environment). Barriers that hinder the effective delivery of group counseling within the public school arena will also be addressed (such barriers are amount of time in the school day, student caseload, and administrative support). This presentation will also address the critical role that school social workers play, in effectively providing group counseling interventions to adolescents who are affected by grief and loss. Objective: The objective of this presentation is to highlight the importance of grief counseling groups for adolescents in public schools. Topics: Topics covered in this presentation include: grief and loss, adolescent development, attachment theory, mental health, social and emotional health, group counseling, school social workers, public school climate and culture, at-risk behaviors, and barriers to group counseling within the public school setting. Target Audience: School social workers, school counselors, school psychologists, school administrators, youth workers, and anyone who provides direct services to youth and adolescents