2026 Specialty Workshops

The 2026 Specialty Workshops by ADEC provide an in-depth exploration of thanatology topics, focusing on grief, trauma, and bereavement. These workshops are designed for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding and skills in these areas. Attendees can expect a range of sessions, including full-day and half-day workshops, each offering optional Continuing Education Units (CEUs). The workshops cover various themes such as trauma and loss, befriending grief, suicidology, and supporting children and teens after suicide. Notable speakers from diverse backgrounds will lead these sessions, providing valuable insights and practical tools for professionals in the field.

Association for Death Education and Counseling

This is the group that put together this event.

Email: adec@adec.org

Phone: +1 502.931.2332

The workshops are scheduled for March 4, 2026, with full-day sessions running from 9:00am to 4:45pm ET and half-day sessions from 9:00am to 12:15pm ET and 1:30pm to 4:45pm ET. Topics include trauma and loss, befriending grief, suicidology, and supporting children and teens after suicide.

David E. Balk, PhD

Professor Emeritus at Brooklyn College, known for his work on adolescent bereavement and publications on thanatology.

Janet R. Balk, MS

Director of Ft. Riley Military Academic Programs for Barton Community College, recognized for her work in death and dying education.

Debra Oryzysyn, MA

Bereavement counselor at VNS Health Hospice Care of New York City and Adjunct Lecturer at Brooklyn College.

Jamie Eaddy, DMin, FT

Thanatologist and pastoral theologian, Director of Counseling & Wellness Services at the Anti-Violence Partnership of Philadelphia.

Janet McCord, PhD, FT

Graduate level death educator and suicidologist, directs the MS in Thanatology program at Edgewood University.

Rebecca Morse, PhD

Behavioral and developmental psychologist and thanatologist, known for research on developmental disabilities.

Nancy Moreau Battaglia, MBA, FT

Professional Art Therapist and member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.

Greg Adams, LCSW, FT

Program Coordinator for the Center for Good Mourning at Arkansas Children’s Hospital.

Pamela Gabbay, EdD, FT

Nationally recognized author and trainer, part of the Youth Programs team at TAPS.

Wendy Lichtenthal, PhD, FT

Founding Director of the Center for the Advancement of Bereavement Care at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Optional Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for various workshops, including 6 CEs for full-day sessions and 3 CEs for half-day sessions.