New Jersey Adoption Resource Clearing House

Grief in the Body: Understanding the Somatic Impact of Chronic Illness

Grief is not just an emotional experience—it is deeply felt in the body, often intensifying for those living with chronic health conditions. In this educational presentation, we will explore how grief manifests physically, impacts the nervous system, and intertwines with chronic illness.

Designed for therapists and counsellors, this presentation introduces key frameworks such as somatic experiencing, parts work, and polyvagal theory. Attendees will gain practical tools including guided body scans, vagus nerve regulation techniques, pendulation exercises, and compassionate approaches to working with grief-holding parts. You will leave with a deeper understanding of grief’s somatic impact and effective strategies to help clients process and heal.