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There is no accepted practice model in child welfare for transitioning children from resource families to their adoptive homes. As a result these transitions can vary widely depending on the preferences of the caseworkers, resource families and adoptive families. This training will describe a systematic model for transitions that are attachment-oriented, developmentally-sensitive, and child-centered. The are two goals in this model. The first is to build an attachment between the child and the adoptive parents while respecting the child's history of trauma and loss. The second goal is to facilitate a transition in the relationship between the child and the resource parents from primary caregivers to the role mutually decided upon for the resource parents after the move; perhaps extended family. This training will assist child psychotherapists in providing input for what the child's needs are in the transition.

This course is eligible for 2 continuing education credits.

This course is suitable for Psychologists, LMHCs, MFTs, Social Workers, LPCs, and Counselors.

Intermediate

12:00–12:05pm Welcome
12:05–12:30pm Overview of the model
12:30–12:50pm Visits with resource parents still present
12:50–1:10pm Visits without resource parents present, including overnight visits
1:10–1:30pm Moving day and subsequent “reverse visits” with former resource parents 1:30–1:45pm Offering solicited and unsolicited input into the transition process
1:45–2:00pm Discussion

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

1. Describe at least two attachment-oriented steps for the development of a relationship between the child and adoptive parents.

2. Identify two loss-oriented issues for both child and resource parents to deal with as their relationship transforms during an adoptive transition.