The Pathway from Grief to Housing for Women Experiencing of Homelessness: A Narrative Therapy Approach

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Authors

Griffith, Sheri

Issue Date

2025-09-30

Type

Capstone

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en

Keywords

homelessness , cognitive behavioral therapy , trauma-informed care , narrative therapy , constructivism , disenfranchised grief , prolonged grief disorder , housing-first initiative

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Abstract

It is challenging to reduce barriers to permanent housing for women experiencing homelessness and grief. This population is at risk for significant negative social, financial and health, and is vulnerable to violence and isolation. This capstone explores whether narrative therapy is valuable in treating women with disenfranchised grief who are also experiencing homelessness. The literature review draws from research gathered via Google Scholar, City University of Seattle, Athabasca University and University of Alberta databases. The discussion examines the social impacts women experiencing homelessness face, and explores grief as a barrier. There is stigma associated with women experiencing homelessness and disenfranchised grief; this stigma can impact the ability of this population to reconnect in their communities. This paper explores therapy modalities that are currently used to address behaviors and thought patterns associated with women experiencing both homelessness and grief. Specifically, it explores narrative therapy as a way to reframe these patterns and behaviors. This discussion addresses how women can be supported by mental health and social agencies, decreasing barriers to stable, long-term housing initiatives. It concludes by discussing clinical recommendations based on research-informed practices and recommends further research into the efficacy of narrative therapy.

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Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
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