Working therapeutically with adopted adults

This two-part workshop will cover a range of topics, including the cultural context of 'Closed Adoption' practices prevalent from the 1950s to the 1980s, shedding light on the historical backdrop of adoption in Aotearoa. Around 100,000 New Zealanders are adopted and over two million New Zealanders are affected by adoption in some way.

Recent breakthroughs in our understanding of trauma have shed light on the enduring impacts adoption can have on individuals. In response to a growing demand from the adoption community, there is a pressing need for increased adoption awareness among Counsellors. Many NZAC members admit to feeling ill-prepared or uninformed when confronted with adoption-related issues, potentially leaving adoptees vulnerable to misunderstanding or ineffective therapeutic interventions.

Join Jo Willis to navigate this crucial topic, fostering a deeper understanding and equipping mental health professionals with the necessary tools to provide competent and empathetic care to adopted individuals. You will explore the profound impact of early separation on adopted individuals, gaining insights into the emotional and psychological consequences. Lived experiences from those who grew up during the 'Closed Adoption' era will be shared, highlighting the real-world stories and challenges they faced. These sessions will also delve into common themes encompassing the seven core issues adopted individuals often struggle with and how these manifest in their lives, as well as practical guidelines you can use in counselling. Additionally, you will gain an understanding of the current legislative climate in New Zealand concerning adoption, as well as familiarity with the available support for adult adoptees.

This workshop consists of two parts, scheduled for two separate dates: July 15th and July 29th, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. These sessions may conclude earlier if all topics have been thoroughly addressed. Ticket price includes both sessions. 

Learning outcomes: 

15th July - Session one: 

• Gain insights into the historical and cultural context of adoption practices in Aotearoa, deepening your understanding of the socio-cultural factors that have influenced adoption dynamics. 
  
• Develop an awareness of the current legislative climate in New Zealand regarding adoption, allowing you to navigate the legal and regulatory aspects affecting adopted individuals and their families. 
• Develop a profound understanding of the adoption experience and its long-term impact on individuals, fostering empathy and insight into the adopted person's perspective. 
• Explore significant and relevant research and theory concerning the impact of early separation and closed adoption on lifelong development.
• Discuss the unique impact of closed adoption practice on clients who whakapapa as Maōri 
• Listen to learned experiences 
• Learn about adoption support available to your clients 

29th July - Session two: 

• Analyze common themes experienced by adopted adults seeking counseling and explore their manifestation in the counseling room.

• Acquire practical strategies on how to provide meaningful support to adopted individuals specifically within the context of Aotearoa New Zealand, recognising their unique needs and challenges. 
• Enhance your abilities to be a sensitive, supportive, and effective Counsellor when working with adopted individuals, ensuring that your therapeutic approach is well-tailored to their needs and experiences. 
• Access a valuable set of tools and resources that can be integrated into your professional kete, enabling you to offer more comprehensive assistance to adopted individuals. 

 More about Jo Willis 

Jo Willis (she/her) is a published author, an adopted individual, and a highly regarded therapeutic coach, making her an expert on the intricacies of adoption within the New Zealand context. Her personal journey began as an infant during the 'closed era' of adoption practices in New Zealand, where she enjoyed a stable, caring upbringing. However, as an adult, Jo embarked on a profound exploration to understand the roots of her persistent feelings of disconnection and low self-worth. This transformative journey led her to discover ways to heal, grow, and live beyond adoption related patterns. 

Jo has cultivated a comprehensive and profound knowledge of the impact of adoption though a lifetime of personal experience, 23 years as a trained social worker, supervisor  and Counsellor working in the Government Dept of Adoption Services, and for the past 10 years as a Therapeutic coach working with adopted people. Her remarkable experience, expertise, and skills in this field have solidified her status as a sought-after speaker at both national and international events. She is a dedicated advocate for the well-being of adopted individuals and a catalyst for legislative change.  

Jo co-authored the book “Adopted: Surviving and Thriving Through the Adoption Journey”.  

This session will be recorded and will be available for replay for two weeks after the event.