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Picking Up the Pieces After the Sudden Death of a Therapist: Issues for the Client and the “Inheriting Therapist”

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Abstract

The death of one's therapist can be considered a traumatic event for the patient. The closeness of the relationship between therapist and patient, especially if the relationship is long-term, makes the loss analogous to losing an intimate attachment. This article will explore the complexity of issues involved for the patient who loses a therapist due to sudden death and examines the issues for the “inheriting therapist” as well. Case examples will be used to highlight some of the more stressful areas of practice in this difficult transition.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Belfer Hall, 2495 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY, 10033

    Joan Beder

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  1. Joan Beder
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Beder, J. Picking Up the Pieces After the Sudden Death of a Therapist: Issues for the Client and the “Inheriting Therapist”. Clinical Social Work Journal 31, 25–36 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021410501036

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021410501036

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