09 | Adoption Support and Therapy: A Deeper Understanding

⁠Join our Newsletter⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ Join our WWP Facebook group⁠⁠⁠  ⁠⁠⁠⁠Free Workshops and Worksheets Lauri Budzynski, MA, LPC, NCC , and Kristen Holmes, MS, LPC, therapists at Shoreside Therapies specializing in adoption and foster care services, share their experiences and insights working with adoptive families, adopted individuals, and foster parents. They shed light on the unique challenges associated with adoption, including attachment trauma, identity formation, behavioral issues, and the grieving process that arises from separation from birth parents. The therapists discuss the frequent misdiagnoses, such as ADHD, that adopted children might receive due to trauma rather than focusing on the underlying attachment issues. They highlight the concept of ambiguous loss and how it impacts both adoptees and parents, advocating for a supportive and safe space to explore these complex feelings.  Lauri and Kristen highlight the importance of adopting competent therapy and asking the right questions for effective assessment. They also announce an upcoming virtual adoption support group aimed at fostering community, support, and camaraderie for adoptive and foster parents and providing resources for navigating various aspects of adoption. The discussion resonates with the importance of building understanding, empathy, and support around adoption and foster care. Takeaways Adoption work involves addressing the challenges of identity formation, attachment trauma, and ambiguous loss. Support groups can provide a safe space for adoptive parents to share their experiences and seek support. Understanding the unique needs and experiences of adoptees is crucial for adoption-competent therapy. Transracial adoption requires open conversations about culture, ethnicity, and identity. Workshops and support groups can provide valuable guidance and resources during transitions. Building a support system is crucial for adoptees and their families, and accessing resources such as IEPs and 504 plans can be beneficial. Support groups like Shoreside Therapies are not limited to Milwaukee County and can provide virtual support to individuals across Wisconsin. To learn more about the services and support offered by Shoreside Therapies, visit their website or contact them directly. 00:00 Introduction to Equal Life 01:09 Welcome to the Wisconsin Wellness Podcast 01:36 Discussion on Adoption and Foster Care 03:44 Understanding Adoption Competency 09:50 Exploring Identity Issues in Adoption 13:10 Understanding Ambiguous Loss and Grief 23:39 Introduction to the Adoption Support Group 29:24 Conclusion and Contact Information 30:06 Outro and Final Thoughts Episode Sponsors and links: This episode is brought to you by: EquaLife: EquaLife is a premier provider of health and wellness services to individuals, families, employers, and rural communities through innovative programs. Our mission is to improve the quality of life for everyone we serve by providing access to comprehensive, high-quality care. Positive Parenting Solutions⁠ In Less Than 60 Minutes, You'll Have My Proven Playbook To POSITIVELY Fill Your Child's TWO Core Needs And Have Them Accept Consequences With No Nagging, Yelling, Or Pushback…⁠Click here for the free webinar Headspace: Stress and anxiety are common challenges in today's fast-paced world, and Headspace is there to help. This mindfulness and meditation app provides effective techniques to manage stress, promoting mental well-being. Shoreside Therapies Kristen and Lauri's Adoption Group: Adoption Support Group Referenced Adoption Book: The Primal Wound