REAL TALK: Behavioral Health Treatment Options
2025-04-16 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Indiana/Indianapolis) | https://gacrs.org/courses/real-talk-behavioral-health-treatment-options/
April is Counseling Awareness Month. We will discuss different treatment modalities that families and youth might be exposed to through counseling.
Presented by: Chena Blanchard

Webinar: Mandated Reporting
2025-04-17 18:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-mandated-reporter/
Child serving professionals and volunteers may suspect child abuse or have a child disclose abuse to them through their work with children. Learn how to recognize factors associated with abuse and neglect prevention, understand how the laws around mandated reporting affect you, and learn the process for handling a disclosure of abuse.
Presented by: Kathyrn R. Ricks, MS
Amerigroup

Virtual Regional Training: Identifying Grief in Children
2025-04-21 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtual-regional-training-identifying-grief-in-children/
This training examines the stages of grief as experienced by children in care. Participants will also be given information on how to identify grief in their children and how grief manifests in behavioral symptoms.
Presented by: Natasha Moriarty, LMSW

Parenting Time: Guardianship/Foster 101:
2025-04-22 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/parenting-time-fostering-guardianship-101-am-i-ready-so-what-now-3/
This group will discuss new placements: preparing and adjusting to family roles.
Presented by:
Janae Combs

Cafe Chats: A Virtual Parent to Parent Support Group: April 2025
2025-04-24 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/cafe-chats-a-virtual-parent-to-parent-support-group-april-2025/
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

Webinar: Facilitating a Deeper Connection with your Foster Children: A Practical Approach
2025-04-29 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-facilitating-a-deeper-connection-with-your-foster-children-a-practical-approach/?preview=true
This interactive workshop will explore practical ways to build a deeper relationship with your foster children. Whether you are new as a foster parent or just looking to build a more meaningful connection with your children, this workshop will provide practical guidance on how to facilitate connection.

Webinar: Ending the Silence for Families
2025-05-06 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-ending-the-silence-for-families/
Ending the Silence for Families is a 1-hour presentation designed for adults with middle or high school-aged youth. It covers the warning signs of mental health conditions, effective communication strategies, and how to collaborate with school staff. This program empowers families to create a culture of understanding and support
Presented by: NAMI Georgia
Angel Faison
Affiliate Supervisor & Program Coordinator

GET REAL TEEN GROUP FOR 13-19 YEAR OLDS: SUMMERTIME SELF-CARE
2025-05-07 19:00 - 20:00 | https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/kqO7nZUbTg-QqXfC6LSFNQ
Summer is the perfect time to unwind, but true relaxation goes beyond just taking a break. Join us for this refreshing webinar on summertime self-care, where you’ll learn how to balance fun and relaxation while taking care of your mental and physical well-being. Make this summer your best yet by investing in yourself. Join us and level up your self-care game!
Presented by: Janae Roberts, MPH, CHES

Virtual Regional Training: Trauma & Helping Children Cope
2025-05-13 19:00 - 20:30 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtual-regional-training-trauma-helping-children-cope/
Trauma is an emotional response to an intense event that threatens or causes harm–harm that can be physical or emotional, real or perceived, and can threaten a child or someone close to them. Childhood trauma is a significant barrier to emotional and psychological development and usually presents itself throughout the course of a child’s life. During this webinar, learn about trauma, specifically childhood trauma, its impact on toddlers & children, and ways to help children cope with trauma. Presented by: Natasha Hope-Moriarty, LMSW

Virtual Regional Training: The Talk Tank: CULTIVATING MOTIVATION: FROM EYE ROLLS TO GOALS
2025-05-14 19:00 - 20:30 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtual-regional-training-the-talk-tank-with-the-bossy-educator-whats-on-your-mind-2-2/
Join us for an engaging workshop designed specifically for parents looking to connect, share, and learn from one another. The Talk TankⓇ offers a safe and supportive space to discuss the joys and challenges of parenting. Together, we’ll explore topics like effective communication, emotional wellness, and practical strategies for handling everyday parenting dilemmas. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or new to the journey, come share your experiences and leave with a renewed sense of community and confidence. Presented by: Tara Seals, MBA, MAED

Cafe Chats: A Virtual Parent to Parent Support Group: May 2025
2025-05-15 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/cafe-chats-a-virtual-parent-to-parent-support-group-may-2025/
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: Cathy Burks

Webinar: Guiding your High Schooler through their College and Career Planning Journey
2025-05-15 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-guiding-your-high-schooler-through-their-college-and-career-planning-journey/
Figuring out what to do after high school can be overwhelming for young people. Parents can feel lost when it comes to supporting their teen with such big decisions. Join this session to learn some helpful tips on guiding your student through the journey of planning for college and career.
Presented by: Stacey Foney

Virtual Regional Training: Calming the Highly Sensitive Child
2025-05-19 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtual-regional-training-calming-the-highly-sensitive-child-2/
This training will discuss calming techniques when parenting a highly sensitive child. It will also give parents tips on how to identify their child’s emotional triggers.”

Presented by:
Natasha Hope-Moriaty, LMSW

Parenting Time: Divorce: What Parents Need to Know
2025-05-20 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/parenting-time-divorce-what-parents-need-to-know/?preview=true
To provide caregivers a better understanding of what effect divorce has on foster and adoptive children and how to help them survive it.
Presented by: Janae Combs, M.A., LPC

REAL TALK on Screen Time, Social Media and Family Connections
2025-05-21 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/real-talk-managing-screen-time-social-media-and-connections/
Tools and tips for helping your family cut down on the screen time and social media and prioritize the things that are most important to you. Connections with family.
Presented by: Laura Cochling, M.Ed., LPC

Webinar: Supporting Foster Children through Grief and Loss
2025-05-28 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-supporting-foster-children-through-grief-and-loss/
Children in foster care often experience profound grief and loss, and these challenges can take many forms—whether it’s the loss of their home, beloved pets, siblings, school environment, or even their parents. This seminar is designed to help caregivers and professionals recognize the unique stages of grief that foster children may face. You will gain valuable insights into how to support and guide children through their emotional journey, equipping them with the tools to navigate their healing process with understanding, patience, and compassion.
Presented by: Theresa Nash, MA

Get Real Teen Group for 13-19 year olds: Presenting to an Audience
2025-06-04 19:00 - 20:00 | https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/EFo3IrGVT6Gl6ylrvFbnmA#/registration
Does the thought of speaking in front of a crowd make you nervous? You’re not alone—but with the right skills, you can become a confident and compelling presenter! Join this interactive webinar to learn how to craft engaging presentations and deliver them like a pro. Whether you’re preparing for a school project, a competition, or just want to improve your speaking skills, this webinar will help you shine in the spotlight!
Presented by Janae Roberts

Webinar: Why Do Our Children Do the Things They Do? Let’s Talk About It.
2025-06-05 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-why-do-our-children-do-the-things-they-do-lets-talk-about-it/
Join us for an open and insightful conversation about children’s behavior. Together, we’ll explore:

Common behaviors and the underlying factors behind them
Thought-provoking questions to guide deeper conversations
Key considerations every parent should understand
The P.A.R.E.N.T. Model—a helpful framework for making interventions a more positive and supportive experience

Let’s connect, share, and learn how to better understand and support our children.
Brenda H. Gillespie, LMSW

Virtual Regional Training: Understanding Behavior: Strategies That Work at Home and School
2025-06-10 19:00 - 20:30 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtual-regional-training-understanding-behavior-strategies-that-work-at-home-and-school/
Raising children comes with joys and challenges, especially when behavior gets in the way of connection, learning, or daily routines. In this session, parents and caregivers will learn simple and effective ways to better understand their child’s behavior, strengthen relationships, and promote positive change at home and in school. We’ll explore why challenging behaviors happen, what you can do in the moment, and how to collaborate with educators to support your child’s growth.
Gereen R. Francis, MS, BCBA

REAL TALK: Summer Strategies: Making the Most of Your Summer
2025-06-11 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/real-talk-summer-strategies-making-the-most-of-your-summer/
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 2025
2025-06-12 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/cafe-chats-a-virtual-parent-to-parent-support-group-june-2025/

Webinar: Understanding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
2025-06-12 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-understanding-post-traumatic-stress-disorder/
Learn the basics of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, including factors that contribute to it, why it may develop, the symptoms and effects of PTSD, and how it is assessed and treated
Presented by:
Molly Abrokwah, LMFT, CCM
Lead Clinical Trainer, Education and Training Team
Amerigroup

Virtual Regional Training: Beat the Heat: A Parent' s Summer Safety Guide
2025-06-17 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtual-regional-training-beat-the-heat-a-parent-s-summer-safety-guide/
This 1-hour training will provide parents with tools to ensure enjoyment and well-being during the warmer months. Topics covered include: Hot Car Seat Safety, Water Safety, Sun Protection, and outdoor activities.
Presented by: Katorah Garrett, BA

Parenting Time: Guardianship: Understanding the Stages of Child Development
2025-06-17 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/parenting-time-guardianship-understanding-the-stages-of-child-development/
Overview of the stages of child development, looking at the physical changes that take place at the various stages of development, as well as at the major changes in brain functioning, in moral development, and in physical development for children at various stages of development.
Presented by: Janae Combs, MA, LPC

Virtual Regional Training: Parenting a Child that Has Experienced Trauma
2025-06-18 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtual-regional-training-parenting-a-child-that-has-experienced-trauma/
Participants will explore how trauma impacts brain development, attachment, and behavior, and gain trauma-informed strategies to support healing, build trust, and create a stable, nurturing home environment. This session emphasizes connection, patience, and resilience in the parenting journey.
Presented by: Theresa Nash, MA

Webinar: The Five Love Languages of Children
2025-06-19 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-the-five-love-languages-of-children/
It’s important for parents to learn how to speak their child’s unique love language. Every child has a primary way they understand and receive love. When parents discover and consistently speak that love language, it helps the child truly feel loved and secure.
Recognizing and speaking your child’s primary love language builds a strong emotional connection and lays the foundation for healthy development. This deep sense of being loved is one of the most powerful tools to help children grow into kind, responsible, and emotionally secure adults.
Presented by:
Brenda Gillespie, LMSW

Webinar: Breaking down barriers and facilitating connection with your LGBTQ foster children
2025-06-24 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-breaking-down-barriers-and-facilitating-connection-with-your-lgbtq-foster-children/
Being in the foster care system is inherently challenging for any child, but for LGBTQ children and teens, these challenges can be compounded by additional layers of stress, confusion, and vulnerability. As a foster caregiver, it’s crucial to create an environment that fosters safety, acceptance, and understanding. This means not only being open-minded and affirming but also actively educating yourself about the experiences of LGBTQ youth. This workshop will help ensure that your home is a safe space where your LGBTQ kids can express themselves freely without fear of judgment.
Presented by: Theresa Nash, MA

Webinar: Supporting Parents of Children with Mental Health Concerns
2025-06-25 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-supporting-parents-of-children-with-mental-health-concerns
Nearly 1 in 4 children ages 3-17 have one or more mental health conditions. The behaviors and symptoms attached to these conditions impact not only the child suffering from a disorder, but also the parent struggling to support their child. In this webinar, learn coping skills for both you and your child to promote improved mental health overall.
Natasha Hope-Moriarty,LMSW
Children’s Therapist
HopeMor Therapy
Love More. Heal More. HopeMor
https://www.hopemor.com/

Webinar: Creating a Life Book with your Foster Children
2025-07-09 19:00 - 20:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/webinar-creating-a-life-book-with-your-foster-children/
What is a Life Book, and why are they important? You might compare a lifebook to a scrapbook for your foster child, but they are so much more important than that. They are an ongoing project that helps your child make sense of their story. They chronicle their challenges as well as highlight their achievements and accomplishments. Join us at this workshop to learn more about how to create this important project with your foster children.
Presented by Theresa Nash, MA

Virtual Regional Training: How To Be Your Own Best Advocate in Court and How to Best Communicate
2025-07-14 12:00 - 13:00 | https://gacrs.org/courses/virtual-regional-training-how-to-be-your-own-best-advocate-in-court-and-how-to-best-communicate/
Learn about your rights and how and what you can do to be heard in court.
Presented by: Ashley Willcott
