When the worst happens: psychologists’ experiences following a client’s death by suicide

Objective The suicide death of a client is among the most challenging experiences for psychologists. Although many clinicians are required to participate in coronial investigations following such deaths, little is known about how client suicide and subsequent investigations affect psychologists’ wellbeing and professional practice. This study examines these impacts.Method Using a purposive sampling approach informed by identity process theory and reflexive thematic analysis, in‑depth interviews were conducted with 12 Australian psychologists. Participants worked in private practice (n = 7; 58.3%) and health services (n = 5; 41.7%), with several practising across both settings. Most had more than 10 years of professional experience (n = 10; 83.3%).Results Five themes were identified. The worst that could happen described distress following the client’s death. Navigating an unfamiliar system: The weight of coronial investigations reflected challenges associated with legal processes. Three themes were shaped by both the death and the investigation: Holding or hindering: The forces that shape emotional burden, concerning sources of support; Disrupted professional identity: Questioning competence and re‑evaluating practice, capturing impact on self‑perception; and Being changed by the experience: Consequences, adaptation, and meaning.Conclusions Psychologists reported inadequate preparation, with coronial investigations compounding distress, requiring improved training and systemic support.