Family Dynamics and Grief: Strategies for Supporting Young People through Loss

Join us IN-PERSON for the 2025 NACG National Webcast, a free three-hour educational event designed for professionals, featuring experts in the field of bereavement Dr. Jamie Eaddy, CT®, CTP, and Doneila L. McIntosh, M.Div., M.A., LAMFT. This webcast will take a systemic approach to understanding grief, focusing on the impact family systems have on children and adolescents navigating loss. Grief is a collective experience that reshapes family dynamics. This interactive session will delve into the critical role families play in shaping how young people process loss, offering a culturally attuned perspective that highlights the significance of honoring each family’s unique context. Attendees will gain valuable insights and practical strategies through dynamic presentations, hands-on exercises, and reflective discussions. You’ll leave equipped to support grieving youth in ways that respect their cultural and familial identities. 3 CEs (Continuing Education credits) are available for $45 through NACG.

About the Speakers:
Doneila L. McIntosh, M.Div., M.A., LAMFT (she/they) is a 4th year doctoral candidate at the University of Minnesota in Family Social Science with an emphasis in Couple and Family Therapy (CFT). Previously, Doneila worked as a hospice chaplain and clergy member for nearly 10 years. Doneila’s research examines the intersections of grief and loss among African American/Black youth and families, particularly in the aftermath of violent death. Doneila is the recipient of the 2023 Ron Keith Barrett Multicultural Presentation Award from the Association for Death Education and Counseling (ADEC). She is also a two-time recipient of the AAMFT Minority Fellowship Program and a recipient of the 2024-25 Doctoral Dissertation Fellowship at the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Jamie Eaddy (she/her) is a public theologian, thanatologist, grief counselor, and activist with over 20 years of experience in transformative education, ministry, and community service. As the founder of Thoughtful Transitions, LLC, and the Director of Counseling Services and Grief Doula at the Anti- Violence Partnership of Philadelphia (AVP), she supports individuals and communities through challenging life transitions, centering on faith, race, gender, grief, and social justice. Dr. Eaddy consults for organizations like the Mayor’s Office for Public Engagement and the Office for Victims of Crime, advancing trauma-informed care and grief support. She teaches future faith leaders at institutions like Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School. She has appeared on platforms like The Samantha Bee Show and in the Emmy award-winning documentary A Hope that Lights the Way. Her ethic, “If your fight for liberation stops once you get free, it wasn’t liberation you were after; it was privilege,” speaks to her dedication to justice and collective healing

Pre-register on the link below so we can plan for your attendance. Light refreshments will be available.