The Symbolism of the Butterfly, Processing the Experience of Loss & Change
A Creative Counseling Resource
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The Symbolism of the Butterfly, Processing the Experiences of Loss & Change
The following resource has been developed as a creative tool to be used in the counseling process. The intent of the resource is to be an aid a counselor (or helper) may use as they companion another through the journey of loss or help another process the experience of a change within their life. This process may include recent losses or changes as well as losses or changes that may have occurred at earlier stages of life, in which the individual still has a need or a desire to share and process. Losses can include those that surround death, divorce, separation, job loss or role identity as well as other significant developmental changes such as a child leaving the home for college or another venture to losses incurred through changes in relationships or even the significance loss of an “item” of sentimental value. Loss is experienced throughout the lifespan. Individuals benefit from processing the loss and with all life experiences a unique tapestry is woven and results in reflecting that person’s life story. Oftentimes one loss experience will trigger feelings/emotions or memories from a previous loss. Creative resources can assist in the sharing of pain, confusion, or uncertainties as well as view clearer the present situation or support the hope for the future in moving forward in life.
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About the Book
This booklet has been designed as a counselor-friendly resource tool to assist in companioning others in a loss, grief, or change process. The booklet creates an opportunity for the sharing of what the world was like for a person before the loss or change. (It may have been the death of a family member, a significant role change, or any other type of loss.) It allows for creative and interactive exploration through drawing or journaling thoughts, ideas, feelings, actions, and systems of support. The process allows for exploration and sharing of the “before the loss or change” stage, as well as the “during the event,” and the “after/present” stage or looking into the future. The resource has been designed to be simple to use in a manner that may assist with understanding, sharing, and providing hope.
About the Author
DR. SUSAN GUM CATLETT is a licensed professional counselor with 30 years of experience in the field of counseling. Her experience includes professional counseling on the college and community college settings, public education in the school setting, agencies, human resources, the church & ministry setting, as well as in the private practice setting. In addition Dr. Catlett has served as a consultant for multiple agencies and as an adjunct faculty member for George Mason University School Counseling Department. Dr. Catlett has experience in facilitating workshops and training seminars to facilitate the strengthening and development of counseling skills and enhancement of individual growth and awareness. Dr. Catlett is a member of several professional associations and has served in a leadership position on numerous professional association boards and committees. Dr. Catlett believes in the value and worth of each individual and encouraging of positive relationships in all roles we encounter believing what matters most in life are relationships. As a wife, mother, & grandmother she realizes that life moves quickly and believes it should be lived with joy through the valley and the mountain top experiences. Dr. Catlett has an interest in assisting others as they weave together their loss, change, and growth experiences on life’s journey. It is her belief that our lives truly can change with each breath we take, our moments are to be cherished, and peace is ours to know as we place our trust in Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior day by day and moment by moment seeking to be in His presence on our ever changing life path.