Addressing Ambiguous Loss Through Group Therapy

Abstract

When children are placed out of the home, state child protective service departments continue to voice their desire to place these children with relatives rather than in traditional foster care. Research has shown the positive impact kinship placement can have for the child; however, there is no consistent way kinship caregivers are supported once the child is placed in their care. This article will show mental health and child welfare workers how the theory of ambiguous loss can be applied in a group format to provide support for kin guardians to address the feelings of loss they face within themselves and the children they care for.