Living in the Liminal Space

What happens when a person is gone, but not lost—when grief takes hold without the certainty of death? Living in the Liminal Space explores this profound emotional terrain, where families and communities exist between hope and despair, struggling to find meaning amid ambiguity.

Drawing on more than 25 years of research and practice, Professor Sarah Wayland brings together her experiences working with families of missing people in Australia and internationally. Through a powerful blend of lived experience, academic insight, and compassion, she offers a framework for understanding and supporting those navigating unresolved loss. Extending the foundational work of Pauline Boss and integrating social theories of hope, loss, and uncertainty, this book challenges social workers, counsellors, psychologists, and therapists to view “living grief” not as paralysis, but as a space where resilience and connection can flourish.

This book is essential reading for students and practitioners in social work, counselling, psychology, sociology, and community services, as well as organisations offering postgraduate or professional programs in grief, loss, and trauma support.