Certified Professional in Combat Grief Counseling
Published on June 24, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to have Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in combat grief counseling, joining us. Dr. Smith, could you please share a bit about your personal experiences that led you to specialize in this field? GUEST: Of course, thank you for having me. I served as a military psychologist and saw firsthand the unique challenges our service members face. This inspired me to focus on combat grief counseling, helping veterans and their families navigate the complexities of trauma and loss. HOST: That's truly commendable. Now, as an expert in this area, could you share any current industry trends that are relevant to the Certified Professional in Combat Grief Counseling course? GUEST: Absolutely. There's a growing emphasis on trauma-informed care, emphasizing the importance of understanding and acknowledging the impact of trauma. Additionally, moral injury, which involves guilt and shame related to military service, is increasingly recognized as a critical aspect of combat grief counseling. HOST: That's fascinating. Now, what would you say are some of the challenges faced in the field or while learning or teaching this subject? GUEST: The subject matter can be quite heavy and emotional, so it's essential to balance the intensity with self-care and resilience-building strategies. Another challenge is keeping up with the latest research and evidence-based practices in the rapidly evolving field of trauma and grief counseling. HOST: I can imagine. Looking toward the future, where do you see the industry heading, and how does the CPCC course prepare mental health professionals for these changes? GUEST: The need for specialized combat grief counseling will likely continue to grow as more service members return from deployment and face the challenges of reintegration. The CPCC course equips mental health professionals with the latest skills and knowledge to provide compassionate, evidence-based care to this deserving population. HOST: That's reassuring to know. Thank you, Dr. Smith, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. It's been a pleasure learning from your expertise. GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's crucial to raise awareness about the unique needs of our service members and their families, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to discuss this important topic.
