Navigating Childhood Grief: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals

Register for this webinar here.

Thursday, November 14, 2024, via Zoom

1:00p.m. to 2:30p.m., EST.

Cost: $30; $45 with CE Credit

Approximately 1 in 11 children in Pennsylvania will lose a parent or sibling before their 18th birthday. While many mental health professionals are tasked with supporting these grieving children, many feel inadequately equipped to assist school-aged youth. This presentation aims to enhance your comprehension of child development through the lens of grief

Presentation Description:

This presentation provides mental health professionals with an understanding of childhood grief and its impact on children’s development. The presentation will explore:

  • Understanding Childhood Grief: Discuss the prevalence of childhood bereavement and how grief can manifest differently in children of various ages.
  • Common Expressions to Grief: Explore common emotional, behavioral, and cognitive responses children may exhibit when grieving.
  • The Impact of Grief on Development: Discuss how grief can affect children’s social, emotional, and academic development.
  • Supporting Grieving Children: Offer practical strategies for mental health professionals to provide emotional support, create a safe environment, and foster healthy coping mechanisms.
  • Resources and Referrals: Provide information about community resources, counseling services, and support groups available to children and families experiencing grief.

Key Learning Outcomes:

  • Participants will gain a deeper understanding of childhood grief and its impact on children’s development.
  • Participants will learn practical strategies for supporting grieving children.
  • Participants will be able to identify expressions of grief in children and know when to seek additional support.
  • Participants will be aware of community resources and support groups available to children and families experiencing grief.

Target Audience:

This presentation is designed for mental health professionals who support children and their families. 1.5 Continuing Education Credits will be provided for Social workers, Licensed Professional Counselors and Marriage and Family Therapists.

About the Presenters:

Carla Levins, LCSW, CT

Carla obtained her Master of Social work from New York University and was introduced to the field of bereavement while working in hospitals in New York City and Philadelphia. She has worked exclusively in the field of bereavement for over 14 years and has presented at many conferences throughout her career. Since joining the staff at Peter’s Place in 2019, Carla has enhanced the School Based program and contributed to its growth. Annually, Peter’s Place supports over 300 students in 70 schools in the 5 county Philadelphia area.  Carla’s contributions have led to improved school partnerships, enhanced curriculum, new activities, and a comprehensive enrollment process. In addition to facilitating school-based grief groups, Carla also facilitates virtual support groups for specific adult populations including Death of a Child, Death of a Spouse and Adults experiencing the Death of a Parent.  Carla also leads the Professional Development program at Peter’s Place. In this role, Carla creates content and provides professional guidance to area schools regarding best practices to support grieving students and the school community at large.

Joseph Kelly, MA, LPC

Joseph earned his Master’s degree in clinical psychology from West Chester University. He began his time with Peter’s Place as an intern and Outreach Coordinator from 2006-2008.  Joseph then spent the next 10 years as a mental health therapist at Valley Forge Military Academy and College and Cabrini University before returning to Peter’s Place as Director of Programs in 2018.  Joseph maintains a private practice at ACAC Fitness, where he works with teens and young adults combining exercise and talk therapy. He is also an adjunct professor in the Counseling Graduate Program at Arcadia University.  Joseph is a member of the American Counseling Association, Pennsylvania Psychological Association, National Alliance for Children’s Grief, and the Association for Death Education and Counseling. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Pennsylvania.   

For questions, please email Carla at carla@petersplaceonline.org.

Cancellation / Refund Policy: Refunds will not be provided.

Grief Support Services