Dignity therapy is a brief, evidence-based intervention designed to help individuals reflect on their lives, find meaning, and leave behind important messages for loved ones.
The process typically results in the creation of a legacy document, also known as a “generativity document” – a permanent record of reflections, memories, and important messages that can bring comfort and connection before, during and after death that can be passed on to loved ones.
Although traditionally offered to people with life-limiting illnesses, Dignity Therapy has also been used with others seeking reflection and meaning making. Research has shown that Dignity Therapy can:
· Reduce anxiety and depressive responses
· Support a sense of a “better death”
· Strengthen connection with loved ones, and
· Facillitate bereavement
Please see the below list of eligibility criteria.
It is not typically advisable to complete Dignity Therapy, and therefore develop a legacy document, under the following circumstances:
- If/where the individual is likely to pass away within the next two-week period.
- If/where the individual has not accepted that death their own death (i.e., that death is a certainty in life).
- If/where the individual has developed an intensive depressive mindset.
- If/where the individual displays cognitive impairment.
- If/where the individual can no longer speak, write or type.
- If/where the individual cannot provide informed consent.
Dignity Therapy is designed for individuals who can provide informed consent. Informed consent requires that you understand the nature and purpose of the therapy, its potential benefits and limitations, and that you are participating voluntarily.
Communication with the psychologist is required to complete Dignity Therapy, and develop a legacy document. If/where there are select difficulties (e.g., weakened speech), please discuss options with your psychologist directly. A family member may be able to attend and assist if/where appropriate.
This is not to say that Dignity Therapy, and a legacy document, cannot be completed alongside someone who displays cognitive impairment; however, typically the process is facilitated by loved ones and not completed independently.
It is important that the legacy document represents the individual and reflects personhood (i.e., who they are as a person).
Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Legacy Document
A Simplified, Self Guided Resource
A chance for you to reflect on life, make meaning, and to pass on important messages to loved ones via a lasting resource
Based on Dignity Therapy
No Therapist Interaction Required
Only One hour of Your Time
Can be Used as a Conversation Piece with Loved Ones
Can be Used to Facillitate Development of a Euology
For anyone who wishes to record their life lessons, values and love in their own words, without needing to see a therapist or engage in Dignity Therapy.
This DIY resource was developed by a registered Psychologist in Australia, who trained in Dignity Therapy with the founder, Harvey Chichinov.
For bulk product purchases, please email welcome@humffraystreet.com
We offers multiple variations of Dignity Therapy,
to assist with affordability and accessibility.
Please note, when deviating from the gold standard treatment approach, treatment efficacy will likely be impacted. The relevant information will be provided in the distributed consent form if/where engaging in a Dignity Therapy service, and/or denoted within the purchased product. Additionally, all products and services are nonrefundable. Any questions, comments, concerns - you are always welcome to discuss this matter with your psychologist directly and/or send a general enquiry through to our email address welcome@humffraystreet.com
Please note, we are not an emergency and/or crisis service.
Should you require immediate assistance, please contact 000 in the event of an emergency, and always travel to hospital in an ambulance.
Please see below a list of services should you require after hours telephone counselling or crisis support:
Lifeline (24/7): Ph 13 11 14
Beyond Blue (24/7): Ph 1300 22 46 36
SuicideLine Victoria (24/7): Ph 1300 651 251
MensLine Australia (24/7): Ph 1300 789 978
Parentline Victoria (7 days/8am - 12pm): Ph 13 22 89
Kids Helpline (24/7): Ph: 1800 55 1800
Ballarat Mental Health Services (24/7): Ph 1300 247 647 (Access and triage service)
Please note, www.humffraystreet.com and associated email addresses and contact numbers may not be monitored regularly and should not be used for correspondence in an emergency.
Complaints process
If you have concerns about your treatment, you are encouraged to discuss these with your psychologist directly. If the matter cannot be resolved, you may contact:
· The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA): www.ahpra.gov.au or 1300 419 495
· The Australian Psychological Society (APS) for ethical guidance: www.psychology.org.au or 1800 333 497.