Empowering Queer Families

Description

(June 2024) Empowering Queer Families
Strategies for professionals working in Adoption and Foster Care.  Within the diverse world of adoption and foster care, there is a lot of value placed on creating inclusive and affirming environments for all types of families. Professionals working within the field of adoption and foster care are likely to see LGBTQ+ individuals navigating these systems face unique challenges that come with holding this identity. This workshop is meant to provide exploration into these nuances to allow professionals to feel equipped with the knowledge and practical skills to support queer and same-sex parents/caregivers who are considering and/or involved in the adoption or foster care process.

Brianna Coleman received her MSW from the University of Minnesota in 2018 and currently holds a LICSW. Brianna has held a variety of different roles, currently working as a clinical program therapist with the MN Department of Corrections at Oak Park Heights prison’s Mental Health Unit. Over the last 5 years she has worked as a licensed psychotherapist and has provided several educational trainings to a variety of different agencies and organizations.

Throughout her career and personal life, she has expanded on her knowledge and experience providing a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ clients, particularly those who hold gender expansive identities, to explore themselves and navigate the unique challenges they face due to their identity. Brianna has grown passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults who hold marginalized identities. Brianna operates through a trauma-informed lens with a particular focus on attachment, development and identity.

Stephanie Coleman, MSW, LICSW, works as the Director of Social Work for Children’s Home Society and Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota where she oversees Foster Care Adoption, Domestic Infant Adoption, Pregnancy Services, and Education programs. She came to this role with experience directly working with youth in foster care seeking permanency, supporting adoptive families by providing attachment-focused and trauma-informed strategies, and providing education to adults considering adoption. Stephanie earned her Masters of Social Work from the University of Minnesota in 2018 and is currently licensed as an Independent Clinical Social Worker. Stephanie completed the Permanency and Adoption Competency Certificate through the University of Minnesota’s Center for Advanced Studies in Child Welfare in 2019.

Watch time: 117 minutes

Eligible Certificate of Completion time: 120 minutes