LYNNWOOD—Nearly one-third of U.S. adults know someone who has died of a drug overdose, according to Johns Hopkins University. Behind each of those deaths are families, friends, coworkers and responders, struggling with a unique kind of grief that often goes unspoken.
This is the 5th year Support 7 is partnering with the Grief Companioning Project and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health to host an Understanding Traumatic Grief Conference. This year our focus is After the Overdose – The Grief No One Talks About.
This one-day conference is designed for first responders, grief workers, therapists, other clinicians, chaplains, crisis responders, and anyone who supports or has been impacted by sudden or traumatic loss.
While our conferences cover all types of unexpected deaths, this year’s focus on overdose grief is particularly timely.
“The epidemic of substance-related deaths continues to affect every community—crossing all ages, classes, and professions—and this event offers tools, understanding, and connection for those walking alongside others through that pain,” said Cindi Sinnema, Executive Director for the Grief Companioning Project.
Event Details:
- 9 AM to 4 PM Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025, Pre-registration is required
- in-person: Alderwood Community Church, 3403 Alderwood Mall Blvd., Lynnwood, WA 98036 (with virtual option available)
- In person: $65 or Virtual: $35
Space is limited, pre-register today.
Featured Speakers:
- Dr. Ted Rynearson and Dr. Steve Juergens on the impact of addiction and overdose on grief
- Paula Becker and Dr. Barry Becker, sharing their family’s story through addiction and loss
- Jennifer Levin, PhD, author of The Traumatic Loss Workbook
Experience Momentum, exploring the physical impact of grief
This event offers an important opportunity to learn, connect, and strengthen our shared ability to companion others through the hardest moments of life.
We hope you can join us and help spread the word among your teams and networks.
Register here:
https://www.support7.org/donate-now/donate-now-support7/understanding-traumatic-grief-conference/
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
