Description
This training draws on current research and lived experience to highlight the invisible nature of these losses and their impact on identity, family systems, and emotional well-being.
Key elements include:
- Identifying different forms of ambiguous loss across diverse communities
- Understanding how disenfranchised grief affects emotional regulation, behavior, and relationships
- Recognizing the role of culture, stigma, and silence in shaping loss experiences
- Reframing common trauma responses as adaptive coping strategies
- Applying a trauma-informed lens to support resilience and healing
Participants will gain practical strategies utilizing TF-CBT to validate experiences of loss, reduce shame, and support individuals and families in navigating ongoing uncertainty. This training is designed to meet the needs of those working in child welfare, education, mental health, healthcare, and community support services.
Learning Outcomes
- Define and identify ambiguous loss across diverse contexts and recognize how it differs from other forms of grief.
- Analyze the impact of ambiguous loss on children and families through real-world narratives.
- Apply trauma-informed strategies to support individuals experiencing ambiguous loss.
- Promote resilience and emotional regulation by helping individuals and families name their loss, tolerate uncertainty, and reduce the distress associated with lack of closure.
- Develop a self-care plan to manage the emotional impact of supporting others and prevent secondary trauma.
Who Should Attend
This course is recommended for those working in child welfare, education, mental health, healthcare, and community support services including foster parents.
Course Dates & Format
December 3, 2025
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm ET
This is a 3-hour training. This course consists of a single 3-hour interactive virtual sessions using Zoom.
Instructor: Amanda Rawn-Alton, M.A., RP
Amanda Rawn-Alton is a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapist of Ontario. She has completed a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, a Joint Honours Bachelors Degree in Psychology and Linguistics, and a Post Graduate Certificate in Behaviour Science Technology. She is dedicated to continuous learning and has most recently completed a Certificate of Achievement in Health Sciences in Clinical Management from The Michener Institute. Amanda has worked with children living in out of home care for over 15 years in various roles. Over the course of that time, she has learned the importance of safety, relationship, security, and understanding plays in healing.
Training Fee
Member Fee: $110.00 + $14.30 (HST) = $124.30
Non-Member Fee: $130.00 + $16.90 (HST) = $146.90
Group Registration: Save 20% off regular individual fees with a group registration of 4 or more participants. Download the group registration form HERE.
Continuing Education Information
Licensing boards and professional organizations will grant Continuing Education credits for attendance at their discretion when participants submit the course outline and certificate.
In-Service
This is available as an in-person or virtual in-service training and customized to suit your needs.
