Stacey Pellettieri, LCSW—founder, educator, and podcast host—joins Michael Peres to unpack early childhood trauma, the overlooked grief of sibling loss, and the healing power of owning one’s story. We explore how developmental stage shapes a child’s ability to process loss, why bereaved siblings often become emotional caretakers for parents, and what families and clinicians can do to create safer spaces for grief. Stacey also shares her personal journey, the roles and attachments that form after tragedy, and the book she’s writing to bring practical guidance to families and practitioners.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why sibling loss is under-addressed—and how it changes family roles
• Developmentally appropriate grief: what kids can (and can’t) process
• Owning the story as a path to healing
• Practical support for parents, siblings, and clinicians