Description

Adoption is often described as a journey, but for children, their adoption journey starts at day one. Regardless of their unique experiences, some fundamental challenges can present throughout the various stages of the adoption journey. Even when a secure, permanent family is found to provide the support and atmosphere necessary to thrive, turbulent times may still be inevitable for all parties involved. This training will explore the primal need for permanency as well as the impact of trauma, attachment disruption and loss. It will also review a tangible framework for improved adoption preparation, adjustment and long-term family health.

Objectives

• Review the basic fundamentals of permanency, grief and loss, attachment and trauma among the children, youth and families along with relevant research, DSM 5 diagnostic criteria and treatment interventions related to grief and loss.
• Examine the connection between cognitive, emotional and behavioral symptoms and how they are manifested in youth.
• Discuss how to identify and intervene in addressing issues of permanency, grief and loss, attachment and trauma among the children, youth and families the child welfare system.
• Demonstrate how to directly apply the principles addressed in this training to work with youth and families throughout the life of an adoption.