Processing Emotion in Child Loss: Development and Validation of a Counseling Model Based on Resilience and Self‑Compassion

Azadeh Sadat Serri; Hosein  Keshavarz Afshar; Zahra  Jahanbakhshi; Elahe  Hejazi

Authors

Azadeh Sadat Serri Counselling, PhD Student, kish International Campus, University of Tehran Author https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4083-0366
Hosein Keshavarz Afshar Associate professor of Counselling, Department of Counseling, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Corresponding Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4519-2264
Zahra Jahanbakhshi PhD, Assistant professor of Counselling, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2839-9960
Elahe Hejazi Professor of Educational Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Education, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8869-9164

Abstract

This study was conducted with the aim of developing and validating a counseling model for processing emotions related to resilience and self‑compassion among mothers who have experienced the loss of a child. The model was constructed based on an in‑depth qualitative analysis of the lived experiences of 30 bereaved mothers in Isfahan, Iran, and consists of nine weekly 90‑minute sessions integrating a set of interwoven components designed to address the emotional, cognitive, bodily, existential, identity‑related, and interpersonal dimensions of grief. The structure of the model is grounded in a four‑stage emotional processing framework—activation, symbolization, meaning‑making, and integration—and incorporates eleven core elements, including emotional safety, controlled activation of emotion, work with trauma‑related reactions, identity reconstruction, strengthening continuing bonds, enhancing social support, and planning for triggers and significant dates. To evaluate the model’s validity, the Delphi method was employed, through which experts reviewed and refined the model across two iterative rounds. Their assessments confirmed the necessity, coherence, and adequacy of the model’s components. Findings indicate that the model possesses strong content and construct validity and aligns with both the lived experiences of bereaved mothers and established theoretical and therapeutic principles in the field of grief. Overall, the proposed counseling model represents a structured, culturally sensitive, and clinically applicable intervention that can support bereaved mothers in emotional processing, meaning reconstruction, and the enhancement of resilience.