Constellation Conversations: Adoption, Adoptee Voices, and Trauma-Informed Care

Episode 7: More Than a Flower Transplanted: An Adoptee's Perspective on Roots and Growth

Join us for Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Liliana, an international and transracial adoptee, as she continues to share her journey of self-discovery, cultural reconnection, and healing. In this episode of Constellation Conversations, Liliana dives deeper into the complexities of navigating identity and belonging as an adoptee. She opens up about the challenges of feeling caught between two worlds, the importance of acknowledging and processing grief and loss, and the lifelong impact of adoption on her sense of self. Liliana also shares her inspiring story of reconnecting with her Ecuadorian heritage and the profound impact it has had on her healing and self-acceptance. Her experiences shed light on the importance of cultural connection for adoptees and the need for greater understanding and support within the adoption constellation. Are you learning and processing the adoptee experience? Click this link [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1H-nY9GuaD4d2esuvrYFc3BkvTFs9x8D74_kKqexIqDw/edit?usp=sharing] 🔗 to access this episode's Guided Reflection, designed to deepen your understanding and enhance your trauma informed awareness. #adoptee #adopteevoices #adoption #adoptioncompetency #traumainformedcare #adoptiveparent #adoptivemom #podcast #constellationconversations

Episode 6: Liliana's Journey: Unveiling the Complexities of Transracial Adoption

Join us for a powerful conversation with Liliana, an international and transracial adoptee from the indigenous community of Ecuador, as she shares her journey of complexity, self-discovery, and cultural reconnection. In this first part of a two-part episode of Constellation Conversations, Liliana opens up about the complexities of growing up adopted without knowledge of her birth or early life history. She speaks candidly about the challenges of navigating identity, loss, and the lifelong impact of adoption, including the ripple effects on her children and the generations to come. 🎧 Tune in now to hear Liliana's powerful story and gain valuable insights into the adoptee experience. ➡️  [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/constellation-conversations-adoption-adoptee-voices/id1780573546] Are you learning and processing the adoptee experience? Click this link 🔗 [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-Sef7lb825iEOsr0U2M8MAi3TVJcHnnPiCWITFo5SDI/edit?usp=sharing] to access this episode's Guided Reflection, designed to deepen your understanding and enhance your learning journey. #adoptee #adopteevoices #adoption #adoptioncompetency #traumainformedcare #adoptiveparent #adoptivemom #podcast #constellationconversations

Episode 5: Holiday Reflections for Adult Adoptees and First Families

The holidays can be a time of joy, but also a time of complex emotions for those touched by adoption. In this episode of Constellation Conversations, we shift our focus to the adults in the adoption constellation – adult adoptees and first families. Join Sarah, an adult adoptee and trauma therapist and Brenda, an adoptive parent in an open adoption, as they explore the unique challenges and opportunities that the holidays can bring. Many assume that adoption means a "forever family," but the reality is more nuanced. We discuss the longing for connection that many adoptees experience, especially during the holidays, and how this can be amplified for those who may not have a strong family connection. We also explore the complex emotions that first families navigate as they approach traditional family events with a non-traditional family structure, whether they have an open adoption or not. ➡️ Holiday Tips for Adoptees and First Families: [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LkLhU7equCJtbuJyOq_G1HCxHt0_iFCwOtZOyUVAsCA/edit?usp=sharing] Click Here to Access this Free Resource  This week, we offer some guidance for navigating the complexities of the holiday season. #adoptee #adopteevoices #adoption #adoptioncompetency #traumainformedcare #adoptiveparent #adoptivemom #podcast #constellationconversations

Episode 4: Unwrapping Adoption- Supporting Adoptees During the Holidays

In this episode, Sarah, an adoptee and trauma therapist, shares her unique perspective on how the holidays can bring up a mix of emotions for adoptees. Brenda and Sarah discuss practical tips and insights on creating a supportive holiday experience for adoptees. Guided Learning: Want to dive deeper? We've created a set of reflection questions based on this episode to help you process the information and apply it to your own life. ➡️ Visit this link for the Guided Learning questions: [https://docs.google.com/document/d/19suduOFJ5BO1XYsz5czxtu6xtNAT5p600qyaAXPA4m4/edit?usp=sharing]  How to Use the Guided Learning Questions: 1. Find a quiet space where you can reflect without distractions. 2. Read through each quote and question carefully. 3. Journal your thoughts and responses. Be honest and open with yourself. 4. Consider discussing your reflections with a trusted friend, partner, or therapist. #adoptee #adopteevoices #adoptioncompetency #traumainformedcare #adoptiveparent #adoptivemom #podcast #constellationconversations

Episode 3: Bridging Two Worlds: Open Adoption and Family Connections

Description: In this episode of Constellation Conversations, Sarah and Brenda explore the complex dynamics of open adoptions, focusing on the challenges of reunion and the critical importance of biological family connections. Brenda shares her personal experiences navigating open adoption and reaching out to biological family, while Sarah provides insights into the emotional and developmental impacts of these connections from both an adoptee and professional perspective. Together, they discuss how fear—whether for the adoptee or themselves—can influence decisions, and they emphasize the importance of centering adoptee needs while supporting all members of the adoption constellation. Whether you're an adoptive parent, adoptee, or part of the broader constellation, this conversation offers valuable insights and actionable steps for fostering healthy and meaningful relationships. Guided Learning: For those learning and processing the adoptee experience, click here to access this Episode's Guided Learning and reflection questions [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lnsEySRzzJpQcfhHX5pW5OytXEiDSMIk6KRLv5UqKAI/edit?usp=sharing] to deeper your understanding of the adoptee experience and to assist you in providing adoption competent support and care.