Which counseling principle involves helping the bereaved to learn/improve their coping and problem-solving skills in order to adjust to living without the deceased?

• A. Principle 1
• B. Principle 4
• C. Principle 7
• D. Principle 3

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is to equip the bereaved with practical coping skills and problem-solving abilities so they can adapt to life without the deceased. This principle focuses on building the person’s capacity to handle daily challenges, create new routines, and navigate obstacles as they continue living. By teaching specific strategies—like step-by-step problem solving, planning, and using available resources—the counselor helps the survivor regain functioning and independence, which is a crucial part of adjusting to the new reality after loss.

Other approaches might emphasize expressing feelings, reviewing the relationship with the deceased, or making meaning of the loss. Those are important too, but this principle stands out because it directly targets actionable skills that support ongoing adaptation and resilience in day-to-day life.