Unstacking Method Certification

This certification allows professionals and laymen to use the Unstacking Method in various contexts - from counseling, to coaching and mentoring. It gives a deep dive into the logistical framework of using the Grief Tower concept while also giving a foundation for the important knowledge-set and skills needed to help someone process grief in a safe and healthy way.

Day 1: Understanding the Grief Tower Model
Day 2: The Grief Tower Blocks and Timeline
Day 3: Coping and Internal Narratives
Day 4: Processing and Understanding your relationship

Day 5 (Optional add-on): Globally-Mobile Grief Tower Considerations*

Format

Live Virtual Training

Time

9 am - 12 pm
Eastern Time (NY)

4-Day Course

May 12-15, 2025 3 hours/day
12 hours total

5-Day Course

May 12-16, 2025
3 hours/day
15 hours total

Price

4 days - $600

Price

5 days - $750

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Unstacking Certification and Debrief Certification?

Our Debriefing Certification unpacks specifically how to debrief TCKs (usually ages 4-20) in the context of the family unit, and how to utilize the materials we've created in order to lead a 2-day debrief.

The Unstacking Methods Certification will go much more in depth into how to walk alongside any adult (ages 16+) who is processing grief - whether they're an expat (including adult TCKs) or not.

While we'll be giving attendees a packet they can use with anyone they're unstacking, we'll be doing more training on how to use the method in any type of setting.

There is some overlap (such as introducing the Grief Tower model, Red zone Green zone, and Safe Space Responses), but we intentionally designed the Unstacking Certification with new material taking into consideration all we have learned as we've been doing unstacking session with many Adult TCKs, expats, and non-expats. Whether it's noting the trends we've seen in challenges or how to navigate certain conversations we've had around grief with clients.

May 12-16 just doesn't work in my schedule? What are my options?

Each of the sessions will be recorded and posted for participants who are not able to attend any or all of the days. If you are not able to attend one of the days that week, we ask that you participate or watch the days in order as they build on the concepts presented the day before. A live final assessment is required to complete the certification, so if you are not able to attend that assessment on May 15, an additional live final assessment will be provided on June 11 at 9 am EST for an asynchronous completion of the certificate.

In 2026, the certification will be released in a completely asynchronous version - stay tuned for that option if this live-virtual option does not work in your schedule.

Could you tell me a little bit about what is included in Day 5 (Globally mobile considerations)?

The first four days will be relevant to any community (expat or monocultural), and then the fifth day dives into specific challenges we see for expats including adult TCKs, military personnel, missionaries, diplomat or foreign service workers, etc.
This section will include research findings from our 2024 survey of Adult TCKs.

Are there any prerequisites for this course?

NO, however, if you are not familiar with our Grief Tower or Unstacking concepts, we recommend that you read What Made that Feel so Hard? by Lauren Wells ahead of time.

Related Resources:

What Does it Mean to be Certified?

An Unstacking Certification means that the participant…

Has been through 12 or 15 hours of training.
Through assessments and case studies have demonstrated that they understand the Unstacking methodology.
Has received access to Unstacking materials to use for Unstacking sessions within or outside of their organization.
The Unstacking Session material is only to be used by people who have received the Unstacking Certification training through TCK Training. No one has been authorized to train others to use our materials.