Lydia, a psychotherapist in her early forties, had recently experienced the tragic loss of a long-term client to suicide. Although she had processed much of the case in her clinical supervision group, Lydia felt there was more she needed to explore – a space where she could reflect deeply on her own feelings, reactions, and professional experience without judgment or expectations. She wasn’t seeking therapy; she was seeking a reflective, creative space to process a uniquely challenging situation.
Through Reflective Case Consultation, Lydia was able to engage with her grief in a structured yet flexible way, integrating creative reflection and narrative exploration to process her emotions and gain clarity.
Some of the ways the sessions supported her included:
- Reframing the Experience: Together, we explored the case from different angles, examining what aspects were within her control and which were not. This reframing helped Lydia release undue self-blame and recognise her professional boundaries more clearly.
- Emotional Processing through Nature-based Art: Using natural materials such as leaves, stones, and pressed flowers, Lydia created tactile, expressive artworks that reflected her inner emotional landscape. These exercises helped her access and process feelings that were difficult to verbalise.
- Meaning-centred Conversation: Through reflective dialogue, Lydia explored the significance of the client relationship, the lessons she took from her work together, and the values that guide her practice. This allowed her to integrate the experience meaningfully rather than being overwhelmed by grief or guilt.
Over the course of several sessions, Lydia noticed:
- A greater sense of emotional clarity and professional perspective
- Reduced feelings of personal responsibility and guilt related to the loss
- A renewed connection to her values as a therapist and the purpose of her work
- A more compassionate awareness of her own emotional needs during grieving
Lydia reflected: “Having a space to explore this loss creatively and reflectively was unlike anything I had experienced in supervision. It helped me process the grief, honour my client, and find my own footing again – without pressure or judgement.”
Reflective Case Consultation is designed for professionals who wish to explore challenging cases, emotionally demanding situations, or experiences that weigh heavily – in a safe, creative, and reflective space. Sessions are tailored to your needs and may include reframing, creative exercises, and meaning-centred conversations to help you process emotions, gain perspective, and reconnect with your professional and personal clarity.
Start with a Compass Session
You can begin with a Compass Session – 30 minutes (€50) or 60 minutes (€100) – to experience how a reflective, creative consultation can support your professional wellbeing.