Continuing Bonds Letter
A grief writing worksheet with gentle prompts for a letter to someone who has died: what is missed, what was unsaid, what is carried forward and how the bond continues.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Continuing bonds
- Approach / concern
- Grief & Bereavement
- Technique
- Continuing bonds
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Continuing Bonds Letter?
The continuing bonds perspective recognizes that many bereaved people maintain an ongoing inner relationship with the person who died, rather than ‘letting go’ entirely (Klass et al., 1996). Letter writing is a common grief intervention that supports expression of unfinished business and meaning-making.
Why it works
Finding an enduring connection with the deceased while embarking on a new life is one of Worden’s tasks of mourning (Worden, 2018). Structured writing helps clients express emotions that may be hard to say aloud.
When to use it
- Bereavement counselling
- Unfinished business or regrets
- Anniversaries and holidays
- Pet loss and non-death losses (adapted)
How to use it in session
- Introduce the idea of continuing bonds.
- Invite the client to write between sessions or in session.
- Encourage breaks if emotions are strong.
- Explore the letter together if the client wishes.
- Consider a ritual for the letter.
Clinician tips
- Respect cultural and spiritual beliefs about the deceased.
- Watch for signs of prolonged grief disorder.
- Not every client wants to write; offer alternatives like drawing or voice notes.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Is it healthy to keep a connection with someone who has died?
For many people, yes. Continuing bonds can provide comfort and meaning, as long as they don’t prevent engagement with life.
What should I do with the letter?
Whatever feels meaningful: keep it, read it at a grave or special place, share it, or create a small ritual.
References
Klass, D., Silverman, P. R., & Nickman, S. L. (Eds.). (1996). Continuing bonds: New understandings of grief. Taylor & Francis.
Worden, J. W. (2018). Grief counseling and grief therapy: A handbook for the mental health practitioner (5th ed.). Springer Publishing.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
