Atlantic Family Forum Program

One of the most moving and impactful features of a Threads of Life Family Forum is our Reflections Ceremony. It is here that we collectively honour our loved ones, injured family members and those living with occupational disease. We take time out of our busy lives to reflect on past and present, so families can move further into their futures.

Mark Shelvock, Registered Psychotherapist, University Lecturer

Chronic sorrow is a type of grief that doesn’t have a clear ending. It often follows workplace tragedies or life-changing incidents where the loss is ongoing rather than past. Unlike grief after a death, this kind of loss requires people and families to keep adjusting daily. This family workshop includes a lecture on chronic sorrow, followed by a guided “speed-dating” style discussion where participants can share experiences and learn from one another. The workshop is facilitated by a registered psychotherapist.

Mackenzie Costron, Counselling and Music Therapist

Discover how music can support emotional well-being, reduce stress, and foster connection in this interactive session on the psychology of music therapy. Participants will learn the science behind music’s impact on the brain and emotions, explore therapeutic techniques, and have the opportunity to try instruments firsthand. No musical experience is required—just curiosity and a willingness to engage with the transformative power of sound.

Roy Ellis, Grief and Trauma Therapist

When we talk about our grief and distress with peers in a safe environment, a number of important things happen – we feel less alone, we feel seen by others, our hurts are soothed and we experience a little support. This facilitated sharing circle provides an opportunity for family members to express feelings and thoughts about their losses, stressors, traumas and challenges. There is no pressure to share, just listening can be a powerful healing experience. This facilitated reflective sharing activity helps people feel less alone, learn a little about themselves, and reduces the incidence of burnout.

Caelin Nadin, Somatic Practitioner SEP™ , Anxiety Coach, Trauma Informed Yoga Therapist

It’s not easy being a nervous system in today’s world. The weight of collective grief, disconnection and relentless stimulation can leave us to feeling untethered. In the midst of this noise, there is a quiet call to return to the body, to the breath and to ourselves. Over our lifetime we develop holding patterns in our body that help us survive. Shoulder and neck tension, back pain, tension in the abdomen, the jaw and pelvis, etc. are all the ways our body has learned to brace or protect us. This is our “armour” and it is there for a very good reason. We need much more than stretching and social media exercises to release this tension. Join me for an all levels somatic yoga class to learn to begin to unwind the deep held tensions at the level of your nervous system to create lasting change overtime. This will be a very gentle, fun and relaxing time together. Come as you are.