When people hear the phrase “support group,” they often picture sitting in a circle, holding hands, and singing Kumbaya. I can guarantee that is not what happens in a support group led by me.
Adoption is a lifelong journey centered around loss. The seven core issues of adoption do not simply get resolved and disappear; instead, they roll over and re-emerge at every new developmental stage. Parents need to be equipped to stop reacting to the behavior and start responding to the true need—whether your child is 3, 9, 13, 18, or 25. There is no expiration date on needing community, and no such thing as "well, we adopted a while ago, so we don't need this."
What to Expect
- All Stages Welcome: Designed for adoptive parents with children of any age, from toddlers to adult children.
- Psycho-Educational Focus: Each session features a structured topic offering a strength-based perspective on building attachment and connection.
- Low-Pressure Environment: Dedicated time to talk, share, and reflect—always at your own pace and comfort level.
- Actionable Insight: Practical tools to help you reframe behaviors through an adoption-competent lens.
Cost
Each Support Group is funded by generous donors. All adoptive families in PA qualify for Post Adoption Supports. Families may reach out to your SWAN Provider (Cobys, FUN, Pressley Ridge, Bethany) to learn about Post Adoption Supports and ask for the Support Group Unit of service. SWAN provides post adoption funding which assists Heart of the Matter to provide quality support to adoptive families.
Whether you are navigating a new transition or processing challenges years down the road, you don't have to walk this path in isolation.
Ready to join a supportive community of adoptive parents? Reach out to Elaine.