Real Talk on Understanding Adolescent Identity Development
2026-02-11 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | https://gacrs.org/courses/real-talk-on-the-emotional-toll-of-caring-for-another-persons-child-2/
Join us for a group discussion on Understanding Adolescent Identity Development
Presented by Chena Blanchard

Cafe Chats: A Virtual Parent to Parent Support Group: February 2026
2026-02-12 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/cafe-chats-a-virtual-parent-to-parent-support-group-february-2026/
Join GACRS for a monthly virtual adoption support group- Café Chats. This event is for adoptive families who share one thing, the journey of adoption. And while adoption is rewarding it also has challenges. GACRS wants to provide a virtual platform for you to exchange information and learn from one another. It’s also your opportunity to share your experiences, what’s in your heart, the challenges, and the success of parenting an adopted child or children. Please see the event calendar for specific dates of each Café Chat- An Adoption Support Event.
Lead by: Leslie Anderson

Parenting Time: Trauma-Informed Care
2026-02-17 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/parenting-time-trauma-informed-care/
Impact of trauma on child development
Recognizing trauma triggers
Building safety, trust, and connection
Trauma-responsive discipline

Presented by: Janae Combs, MA, LPC

Common Ground: A Resiliency Group for Parents and Teens- The Loneliness Crisis: Rebuilding Connection at Home & Beyond
2026-02-18 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/common-ground-a-resiliency-group-for-parents-and-teens-the-loneliness-crisis-rebuilding-connection-at-home-beyond/
This is a space where teens and caregivers come together to listen, learn, and grow. Here, every voice matters. We believe in sharing without judgment, respecting different perspectives, and finding connection through conversation. Let’s make this a place of empathy, honesty, and mutual support.
Please Note: Both parent and Teen will need to have a way to join the meeting as we will do a breakout group
This month’s topic is: “The Loneliness Crisis: Rebuilding Connection at Home & Beyond”
Discussion:
Loneliness is rising for both teens and adults — even in a hyper-connected world. This conversation digs into why so many young people and caregivers feel isolated, and how families can rebuild connection, belonging, and emotional closeness. We’ll share simple ways to strengthen relationships and feel less alone.
Facilitated by: Janae Roberts

In-Person Region 13 Training: Resilience
2026-03-06 18:00 - 20:30 | GA
Join us for Foster and Adoptive Parent Support, networking, and training on Friday, March 6, 2026. Dinner & Childcare will be provided. Dinner 6:00-6:30pm. Training 6:30pm-8:30pm
Please click on the link below to let them know how many people will be attending the dinner.
Kennesaw Church Support Group & Training – March 6, 2026

2 training hours will be awarded to each participant for attending the training. For questions email fostercare@kennesawmc.orgSupport Group is held at:
Kennesaw Church
1801 Ben King Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144Drive around to the back of the building and enter in Door G. Training will be held in Room 137 and childcare will be in the children’s hall. Please sign in at the Registration desk inside Door G.The Foster Care Resource Closet will be open and available from 6:00-6:30pm.

Resilience is the ability to recover from difficulties and children more than ever, need to develop resilience in today’s world. This session will cover the seven-character traits that develop resilience and how you can best nurture it.

Presented by: Lynne Watts, Ed.S

Cafe Chats: A Virtual Parent to Parent Support Group: March 2026
2026-03-10 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/cafe-chats-a-virtual-parent-to-parent-support-group-march-2026/
Join GACRS for a monthly virtual adoption support group- Café Chats. This event is for adoptive families who share one thing, the journey of adoption. And while adoption is rewarding it also has challenges. GACRS wants to provide a virtual platform for you to exchange information and learn from one another. It’s also your opportunity to share your experiences, what’s in your heart, the challenges, and the success of parenting an adopted child or children. Please see the event calendar for specific dates of each Café Chat- An Adoption Support Event.
Lead by: Dawn Scott

Real Talk on the Emotional Toll of Caring for Another Person's child
2026-03-11 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/real-talk-on-the-emotional-toll-of-caring-for-another-persons-child/
Join us for a group discussion on the Emotional Toll of careing for another persons child.
Managing guilt, resentment, or isolation
Presented by Laura Cochling, M.Ed., LPC

Common Ground: A Resiliency Group for Parents and Teens- Connected & Protected: Cyber Safety for Teens
2026-03-16 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/common-ground-a-resiliency-group-for-parents-and-teens-speaking-their-language-building-better-communication-at-home/
This is a space where teens and caregivers come together to listen, learn, and grow. Here, every voice matters. We believe in sharing without judgment, respecting different perspectives, and finding connection through conversation. Let’s make this a place of empathy, honesty, and mutual support.
Please Note: Both parent and Teen will need to have a way to join the meeting as we will do a breakout group
This month’s topic is: “Connected & Protected: Cyber Safety for Teens”
Discussion:

Facilitated by: Janae Roberts

Webinar: Sleep challenges and attachment-related insomnia
2026-03-17 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-sleep-challenges-and-attachment-related-insomnia/
This practical, hands-on workshop helps foster parents understand why sleep difficulties are so common for children with trauma and disrupted attachment—and what to do about it. Participants will learn trauma- and attachment-informed strategies to reduce bedtime anxiety, build felt safety, and respond effectively to night wakings. Foster parents will leave with concrete tools, routines, and language they can use immediately to support healthier sleep for both their child and themselves.
Presented by: Theresa Nash, MA

Parenting Time: Family Identity & Transition
2026-03-18 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/parenting-time-family-identity-transition/
Helping children understand their story
Maintaining sibling connections
Managing divided loyalties

Presented by: Janae Combs, MA, LPC

The Adoptee Voice: Lessons from Lived Experience: Part 3: Communication in Crisis: The Tough Conversations
2026-03-24 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/the-adoptee-voice-lessons-from-lived-experience-part-3-communication-in-crisis-the-tough-conversations/
Series Goals and Value Proposition
The most critical resource for adoptive and foster parents is the authentic, lived experience of adopted individuals. This series provides a structured environment to analyze common emotional and relational challenges through the eyes of those who have experienced them.
4-Part Session Breakdown (60 Minutes Each)
The four one-hour sessions are structured to explore distinct, critical themes in the adoption/foster journey.

Session
Title
Focus & Theme
Case Study Example (Conceptual)

Part 1
January 13
The Two Stories: Loss and Loyalty
Exploring the primal wound of loss and the feeling of loyalty conflicts often experienced when talking about birth family or the past.
A story detailing a moment the adoptee hesitated to express curiosity about their birth mother for fear of hurting their adoptive mother’s feelings.

Part 2
February 10
Identity and Difference: “Just Like Everyone Else”
Analyzing the search for self and identity formation, particularly moments where the adoptee felt “different” or marginalized due to their adoption status.
A narrative about filling out a family tree assignment in school or a moment of micro-aggression from extended family or the public.

Part 3
March 24
Communication in Crisis: The Tough Conversations
Focusing on difficult, high-stakes communication points (e.g., finding out the truth, reacting to intense grief, or the decision to search).
A story recounting a major argument with parents regarding adoption records, or an emotional outburst related to original loss.

Part 4
April 28
Connecting the Dots: Adoptee-Informed Parenting
Synthesizing the lessons learned into proactive, daily parenting habits that validate the adoptee experience.
A narrative detailing a simple, ordinary moment where a parent’s subtle, validating comment made a profound positive impact on the adult adoptee.

Developed and presented by: Tina Neese, Ed.D, LPC

Webinar: Affirming Care & Advocacy for LGBTQIA+ Youth in Foster Care
2026-03-25 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-affirming-care-advocacy-for-lgbtqia-youth-in-foster-care/
Every child deserves a sanctuary where they are free to grow into their authentic self. This session equips foster parents with the practical tools and advocacy strategies necessary to build a truly affirming home where LGBTQIA+ youth can feel safe, seen, and supported.
Presented by: Brian “Bo” Becker

Cafe Chats: A Virtual Parent to Parent Support Group: April 2026
2026-04-15 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/cafe-chats-a-virtual-parent-to-parent-support-group-april-2026/
Join GACRS for a monthly virtual adoption support group- Café Chats. This event is for adoptive families who share one thing, the journey of adoption. And while adoption is rewarding it also has challenges. GACRS wants to provide a virtual platform for you to exchange information and learn from one another. It’s also your opportunity to share your experiences, what’s in your heart, the challenges, and the success of parenting an adopted child or children. Please see the event calendar for specific dates of each Café Chat- An Adoption Support Event.
Lead by: Melissa Burns

Virtual Regional Training: Depressive Disorders in Children and Teens
2026-04-16 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virttual-regional-training-depressive-disorders-in-teens/
This training helps foster and adoptive parents recognize the signs of depression in children and teens, explore different depressive disorder diagnoses, understand how trauma and loss impact mood and behavior, and learn practical strategies to support healing at home.
Presented by: Natasha Hope-Moriarty, LMSW

Real Talk on How to Prepare Children for Adoption
2026-04-16 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/real-talk-on-how-to-prepare-children-for-adoption/
Join us for a group discussion on Preparing Children for Adoption
Presented by Chena Blanchard

Webinar: Talking about Adoption
2026-04-21 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-talking-about-adoption/
Talking about adoption openly and honestly at every development stage: it can be harder than it sounds! Come learn tips, tricks and the how and why it is so important for you and your kids.
Presented by: Ashley Willcott, JD

Parenting Time: Cultural Humility and Identity
2026-04-21 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/parenting-time-cultural-humility-and-identity/
Supporting racial, cultural, and LGBTQ+ identity
Understanding biases
Advocating for inclusive services

Presented by: Janae Combs, MA, LPC

Common Ground: A Resiliency Group for Parents and Teens- The Pressure to Be Perfect: Grades, Sports, Social Life & Expectations
2026-04-22 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/common-ground-a-resiliency-group-for-parents-and-teens-the-pressure-to-be-perfect-grades-sports-social-life-expectations/
This is a space where teens and caregivers come together to listen, learn, and grow. Here, every voice matters. We believe in sharing without judgment, respecting different perspectives, and finding connection through conversation. Let’s make this a place of empathy, honesty, and mutual support.
Please Note: Both parent and Teen will need to have a way to join the meeting as we will do a breakout group
This month’s topic is: “The Pressure to be Perfect; Grades, Sports, Social Life & Expectations
Discussion:
From schoolwork to social expectations, teens feel pressure from all directions — and caregivers often feel it too. This session explores perfectionism, burnout, comparison, and
the fear of falling short. Together, we’ll find ways to ease the pressure and support each other with compassion instead of expectations.
Facilitated by: Janae Roberts

The Adoptee Voice: Lessons from Lived Experience: Part 4: Connecting the Dots: Adoptee-Informed Parenting
2026-04-28 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/the-adoptee-voice-lessons-from-lived-experience-part-4-connecting-the-dots-adoptee-informed-parenting/

Real Talk: Understanding the impact of trauma, neglect, or abuse on child behavior
2026-05-06 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/real-talk-understanding-the-impact-of-trauma-neglect-or-abuse-on-child-behavior/
Join us for a group discussion on Trauma, Neglect and abuse on Child behavior
Presented by Laura Cochling

Webinar: "Open v Closed Adoptions, and how a Post Adoption Contract Agreement works
2026-05-07 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-open-v-closed-adoptions-and-how-a-post-adoption-contract-agreement-works/
Join us for an informative session led by Christina E. Campbell, a Georgia adoption attorney on the key differences between Open vs. Closed Adoption and how Post-Adoption Contact Agreements work in our state. We’ll break down what each type of adoption looks like in practice, the benefits and challenges for all parties involved, and what Georgia law does—and doesn’t—allow when it comes to post-adoption contact. Whether you’re a prospective adoptive parent, birth parent, or professional supporting families, this webinar will give you the clarity and confidence to make informed decisions throughout the adoption process.
Presented by: Christina Campball

Virtal Regional Training: From Playdates to Peer Groups
2026-05-12 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtal-regional-training-from-playdates-to-peer-groups-supporting-friendships-from-childhood-through-young-adulthood/
Supporting Friendships from Childhood Through Young Adulthood
Presented by Gereen Francis

Webinar: Navigating Pre-Teen/Teen Emotions
2026-05-13 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-navigating-pre-teenteen-emotions/
Have you ever found yourself genuinely wondering what is going through your teenagers mind? Or trying to understand why they think the way they do or rather, why they aren’t capable of thinking the way you wish they would? During this seminar, gain a better prospective into the teenage brain and how it impacts their emotions, behaviors, and interactions. Parents will also learn coping skills to foster & improve positive interactions with their teens.
Presented by: Natasha Hope, LMSW

Cafe Chats: A Virtual Parent to Parent Support Group: May 2026
2026-05-14 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/cafe-chats-a-virtual-parent-to-parent-support-group-may-2026/

Parenting Time: Self-Care for Guardianship Families
2026-05-19 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/parenting-time-self-care-for-guardianship-families/
Preventing burnout
Building community support
Stress management tools

Presented by: Janae Combs, MA, LPC

Common Ground: A Resiliency Group for Parents and Teens- Digital Resilience: Navigating Social Media, Mood & Well-Being
2026-05-20 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/common-ground-a-resiliency-group-for-parents-and-teens-digital-resilience-navigating-social-media-mood-well-being/
This is a space where teens and caregivers come together to listen, learn, and grow. Here, every voice matters. We believe in sharing without judgment, respecting different perspectives, and finding connection through conversation. Let’s make this a place of empathy, honesty, and mutual support.
Please Note: Both parent and Teen will need to have a way to join the meeting as we will do a breakout group
This month’s topic is: “Digital Resilience: Navigating Social Media, Mood & Well-Being”
Discussion:
Screens are a big part of teen life — and family life. This session goes beyond “less screen time” to talk honestly about how social media affects mood, identity, and relationships. Teens and caregivers will explore strategies for healthier digital habits, balance, and emotional resilience in a tech-filled world.
Facilitated by: Janae Roberts

Common Ground: A Resiliency Group for Parents and Teens- Friendship Ups & Downs: Supporting Teens Through Social Shifts
2026-06-03 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/common-ground-a-resiliency-group-for-parents-and-teens-friendship-ups-downs-supporting-teens-through-social-shifts/
This is a space where teens and caregivers come together to listen, learn, and grow. Here, every voice matters. We believe in sharing without judgment, respecting different perspectives, and finding connection through conversation. Let’s make this a place of empathy, honesty, and mutual support.
Please Note: Both parent and Teen will need to have a way to join the meeting as we will do a breakout group
This month’s topic is: “ Friendship Ups & Downs: Supporting Teens Through Social Shifts”
Discussion:
Friendships change quickly during the teen years. In this session, we’ll talk about conflict, loyalty, peer pressure, drifting friendships, and making new connections. Teens and caregivers will learn how to support each other through the messy, meaningful world of teen social life.
Facilitated by: Janae Roberts

Real Talk on Making the Most of Summer
2026-06-10 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/real-talk-summer-strategies-making-the-most-of-your-summer-2/
Join us in a discussion about making the most out of your summer.
Presented by: Chena Blanchard

Cafe Chats: A Virtual Parent to Parent Support Group: June 2026
2026-06-10 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/cafe-chats-a-virtual-parent-to-parent-support-group-june-2026/
Join GACRS for a monthly virtual adoption support group- Café Chats. This event is for adoptive families who share one thing, the journey of adoption. And while adoption is rewarding it also has challenges. GACRS wants to provide a virtual platform for you to exchange information and learn from one another. It’s also your opportunity to share your experiences, what’s in your heart, the challenges, and the success of parenting an adopted child or children. Please see the event calendar for specific dates of each Café Chat- An Adoption Support Event.
Lead by: Suzette Brown

Virtual Regional Training: Managing Anger in Small Children
2026-06-16 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtual-regional-training-managing-anger-in-small-children/
This training helps foster and adoptive parents understand anger in children through a trauma informed lens. Participants will learn practical tools to support emotional regulation, strengthen connection, respond calmly during difficult behaviors, and help children develop healthy coping skills in a safe and supportive environment
Presented by: Natasha Hope-Moriarty, LMSW
