Maria Trozzi

Maria Trozzi, M.Ed., is a former assistant professor of developmental and behavioral pediatrics at Boston University School of Medicine and the co-founder and former director of the nationally renowned Good Grief Program at Boston Medical Center. With extensive experience as a consultant, including roles with the Child Development Unit at Children's Hospital, Trozzi has established herself as an authority on child and family bereavement. She has provided crisis consultation in high-profile events such as Columbine, Hurricane Katrina, the aftermath of 9/11, and the Boston Marathon Bombing.

Trozzi's contributions extend to working with Naval Special Warfare operators (SEALS) and their families, providing crucial support pre- and post-deployment. Her ongoing commitment to addressing bereavement has led to the development of programs that promote resilience, including a four-year project at Children's Hospital in New York, focusing on designing a bereavement protocol response for both families and clinicians. This approach continues to serve as a national model for trauma and intensive care units.

Her research interests also include the psychosocial issues children face when experiencing losses due to various causes such as family illness, divorce, and community tragedies. Moreover, Trozzi has explored grief management in special education, proposing new models to assist teams in handling parental grief and decision-making more effectively. A recognized expert in managing community turbulence, especially in school settings, she has also conducted professional development sessions at institutions like Pingree Academy.

As a seasoned speaker, Trozzi has delivered addresses that blend personal and professional insights, notably for parents of children with special needs. Her book, "Talking with Children About Loss: Words, Strategies, and Wisdom to Help Children Cope with Death, Divorce, and Other Difficult Times," published by Putnam-Penguin, is deemed an indispensable resource for both parents and professionals. She is also a frequent contributor to various media outlets, appearing on national news programs such as CNN, NBC, ABC, and CBS. Trozzi maintains a private practice in Boston and West Yarmouth, focusing on assisting families through stressful life events.