Adoptive Parent Groups

Adoption is a wonderful gift that allows families to form in ways that would not be possible otherwise. It is a unique experience brining unique challenges. There are many highs and lows for the entire family as each  learn to navigate nature vs nurture; while giving the space for each person to develop in a safe and comfortable environment. It is an amazing adventure, but often the uniqueness of it can make parents feel isolated, misunderstood, or even judged as they navigate the unknown.

This is true for many adotpion situations, but especially for children that have come from trauma. Trauma is a complex term, and it includes (but not limited to) circumstances of abuse, foreign adoption where children started in orphanages, or even teen moms that made a selfless choice that left an adopted child feeling unwanted, no matter how loved that child is and how much that child loves the adoptive parents. Behaviors often become the resulting outcome, thus creating a sense of failure and hopelessness at times for all involved. 

It can be a daunting road amongst all of the beauty, and this group is intended to create a space for learning, growing skills, and being in a space where others truly “get it”.

Note: We use both small and large animals for interactive therapy based experiences.

Group Levels

  • This group is the beginning point for any parent new to WhistleStop Acres. It will be the space where the support group and foundational learning begins, and where support and trust forms with others that will become your outside of therapy go-to’s.

  • This group will be for those that wish to continue growing in their skills, processing more personalized needs, and continuing to build relationships with others for resources and support outside of sessions.

  • These groups will be formed based on need. For example, families with children from trauma experiencing serious behavioral issues, parents of special needs children that require medical intervention, educational IEP’s, or families with children that have reactive attachment issues for various reasons rooted in their adoption stories.