Grief Counseling Simulation

Stephanie Cordero

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Grief Counseling Simulation

Develop empathy and communication skills

This lesson involves a simulation-based activity where students role-play as grief counselors and clients. Through this exercise, students will learn effective communication and empathy skills, which are crucial for interpersonal relationships and emotional intelligence. The lesson includes feedback sessions to help students reflect on their performance and improve their skills, making it a valuable experience for personal and professional development.

Audience

12th Grade Students

Time

1 hour 30 mins

Approach

Develop empathy and communication skills

Materials

Role-play scenario cards, Feedback session guidelines, Discussion questions, and Pens and paper

Step 1

Introduction

10 mins

Briefly introduce the concept of grief counseling and its importance.
Explain the objectives of the lesson: to develop empathy and communication skills through role-play.
Outline the structure of the lesson, including role-play and feedback sessions.

Step 2

Role-Play Preparation

10 mins

Distribute role-play scenario cards to students.
Divide students into pairs, assigning one as the counselor and the other as the client.
Allow students time to read and understand their roles.

Step 3

Role-Play Activity

30 mins

Students engage in role-play, acting out their assigned scenarios.
Encourage students to focus on active listening, empathy, and effective communication.
Circulate the room to observe and provide support as needed.

Step 4

Feedback Session

20 mins

Gather students for a group feedback session.
Use the feedback session guidelines to facilitate discussion on what went well and areas for improvement.
Encourage students to share their experiences and insights.

Step 5

Discussion

15 mins

Conduct a class discussion using prepared questions to deepen understanding.
Focus on the importance of empathy and communication in real-life situations.
Allow students to express their thoughts and feelings about the exercise.

Step 6

Closure

5 mins

Summarize key takeaways from the lesson.
Highlight the importance of empathy and communication skills in everyday life.
Encourage students to apply these skills in their interactions outside the classroom.

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Worksheet

Role-Play Scenario Cards

These cards contain different scenarios for students to role-play as grief counselors and clients.

Scenario 1: A client who has lost a pet.

Scenario 2: A client dealing with the loss of a grandparent.

Scenario 3: A client who is grieving a friend moving away.

Scenario 4: A client struggling with the end of a relationship.

Discussion

Feedback Session Guidelines

Guidelines to facilitate a feedback session after the role-play activity.

What did you find challenging about your role?

Encourage students to reflect on their experiences and identify specific challenges they faced.

How did you feel during the role-play?

Ask students to share their emotions and how they managed them during the activity.

What communication strategies worked well?

Discuss effective communication techniques observed during the role-play.

What could be improved for next time?

Encourage constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement.

Discussion

Discussion Questions

Questions to guide a class discussion on empathy and communication skills.

Why is empathy important in communication?

Discuss how empathy helps in understanding others' perspectives and building trust.

How can effective communication impact relationships?

Explore the role of communication in strengthening or weakening relationships.

What are some barriers to effective communication?

Identify common obstacles and discuss ways to overcome them.

How can we apply these skills in real life?

Encourage students to think of practical applications of empathy and communication skills.