Description

As adopted teenagers move toward adulthood, parents may find themselves balancing two important goals: supporting their young person while also helping them develop independence. When mental health struggles are part of the picture, this transition can become even more complicated.

Melissa Smallwood is a licensed therapist who provides parent coaching through her Mending Hearts program. A former foster youth, foster and adoptive mom, and counselor, Melissa combines professional knowledge with lived experience to offer hope, education, and encouragement to families navigating the complexities of foster care and adoption.

In this session, Melissa will explore ways parents can support teenagers as they develop greater independence while continuing to navigate mental health challenges, relationships, and the transition into adulthood.