Christine Dernederlanden is expanding her professional speaking career. Over the past four years, she has given helpful and informative talks to an increasing number of children, teens and adults.

Christine is asked repeatedly, “How can I change my life, when it’s filled with so much grief?” Christine addresses this question in her real life story of grief, sorrow, happiness and healing. She inspires volunteers to continue the great work they do, caregivers to realize how important they are to society, along with teaching the grieving that they can continue on through the many challenges of life.

Inspirational Speaker
Christine offers, courage, hope, and support to volunteers, professionals, caregivers, the bereaved, corporations, and the general public.

Play Therapy
Christine offers hand-on interaction with her audience as she explains grief and its many forms. Author of "H.U.G.S. Helping Children Understand Grief Sessions", released in 2004, published by Robert's Press. H.U.G.S. is used within schools, hospices, and various children programs. H.U.G.S is a result of Christine’s involvement as a developer, facilitator and leader for the children and teen camps for the Friendship Ambassadors of the United Nations grief camps for the families of 9/11. Author of the award winning book "Where is Robert? A children's grief kit", released in 2000, published by Robert's Press. Over six thousand copies were provided to the families of September 11, 2001.

“As [Dernederlanden] told her incredible stoic story, [she] turned to her audience and said, 'It takes courage to care for people who are dying'."
- The Winchester Press

"We have the evaluation results from the conference and wanted to share them with you. People enjoyed your sessions very much. Also the committee would like to thank for taking the time to come and speak at the conference. It was a pleasure meeting you."
- Pat Cadeau, Suicide Conference Committee Member

Some of the comments from the evaluation results:

  • "interesting and informative"
  • "excellent presentation"
  • "helpful information"
  • "speaker was enjoyable, easy to listen"
  • "informative, interesting and relevant"
  • "educational handouts appreciated"

"Christine Dernederlanden conducted an 'Empower' workshop for The Powerhouse Project, Young Carer's Initiative. This was a workshop geared towards increasing self esteem and 'how to walk, talk and act like a model.' Our clients were all female and ranged in age from 8 to 13. The girls told us that they had a fabulous time and have raved about how much they enjoyed it! Christine was encouraging, complimentary and praising throughout the workshop and towards our clients. The Powerhouse staff feel that Christine was easy to work with, down to earth, and very accommodating to our needs. Mrs. Dernederlanden was flexible and approachable, customizing the 'Empower' workshop to specifically fit our clients' interests."
- Nicole Soble, Sommer Chanthra,
Niagara Program Coordinators

"Christine presents very practical strategies and tools that can be easily implemented with children and their families. Her warm, friendly and natural approach to such sensitive issues make her an easy presenter to listen to."
- Leah Ferron,
Child Development Counsellor,
Near North District School Board

"I have had an opportunity to see Christine speak on two separate occasions regarding issues pertaining to grief, bereavement and trauma and have found her presentation formats to be organized, engaging and practical. Christine exudes a confidence in her speaking, demonstrating a vast amount of energy, enthusiasm and eagerness in helping others recognize their potential within this area."
- Nancy Morphet,
Certified Child Life Specialist

" I thought I could never get past my divorce, but Christine showed me I am a stronger person now."
- Client

"Christine is a knowledgeable speaker who captivates her audience. Her humour and enthusiasm gets everyone excited. Through art, music and play therapy, Mrs. Dernederlanden points out the positive side of life's situations. She has an unique ability to draw attention to the present and future."
- Barbara Maurer MA, LPC,CTS
New York

For more information or to book Christine for your speaking event, please contact us.


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