Adoption Forum 1-Day Symposium April 29, 2006

Saturday April 29th, 2006 Adoption Forum hosts the one-day Spring Symposium at the Sheraton Park Ridge in King of Prussia, PA. The event's unique design meets the needs of two groups of people -people directly affected by adoption, as well as mental health professionals- offering two workshops for each, and CEU credits for the latter as well.

For birthparents and adoptees, the day's agenda addresses past attendee feedback requesting further in-depth exploration of emotional and psychological issues connected to adoption. The first session runs 9:00AM- 11:30AM and is "Who am I? Identity Development and How It Is Affected By Adoption" presented by Robert Hafetz (adoptee and author of "Not Remembered, Never Forgotten"). With discussions and personal stories and group interaction, the workshop explores how adoption affects the development of one's identity. The second session (1:30PM- 4:00PM) is "The Impact of Having Children on The Core Issues of Grief and Loss" led by Zara Phillips (adoptee and author of "Chasing Away The Shadows"). The session explores how having children can reawaken previously buried issues related to adoptee grief and birthparent relinquishment, and how adoption affects our parenting.

The two workshops for mental health professionals offer 5 CEU credits for symposium attendance. Geared to assist mental health professionals work with the unique needs of birthparents and adoptees, the morning session addresses the issue of attachment in human development, while the afternoon session deals with reunion issues, expectations and outcomes. Workshop leaders include David Marion ED.D., Rita Roitman M.S.W. L.S.W, and author Robert Hafetz.

At 8:30 the symposium begins with registration and free continental breakfast. 11:30 to 1:30 is lunch and a free concert with Zara Phillips.

For registration, more details, and directions, see http://www.adoptionforum.org

The Sheraton Park Ridge is just outside Philadelphia and very accessible by road from all points. Though members receive discounted admission, you need not be a member to attend. Seating is limited for these more intimate workshops, so prompt registration is encouraged.

Established in 1973, Adoption Forum, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is recognized throughout Pennsylvania as a group advocating access to records for adult adoptees. Functioning as a group of members united to promote open and honest communication in adoption, Adoption Forum works to educate the public by providing speakers, an annual conference, and by presenting testimony at legislative hearings. The Forum does not provide treatment, endorse any particular adoption agency nor derive benefit from any referrals. Adoption Forum's purpose is to provide emotional support to all members of the adoption triad: adoptees, biological parents and adoptive parents and to invite support from adoption professionals and legislators.

Official Website: http://www.adoptionforum.org