A Death in the Family

Abstract

The subject of death is one that is not easily addressed. Learning disability (and in particular profound learning disability) throws up uncomfortable issues which also are not easily dealt with. Therefore there is often a struggle in addressing the needs of this client group when bereaved. I believe that the arts therapies have an important role in assisting the grieving process of adults with a profound learning disability. This paper focuses on bereavement sessions, jointly run by a music therapist and an occupational therapist. These are set in the context of other interventions addressing aspects of grief. Case examples are drawn from the author's 25 years' experience in this field, in providing music therapy and wider bereavement services to adults with complex needs.