Online registration is available until: 12/9/2026
Too often, permanency preparation with youth begins only after a family has been identified, which may not address the unique needs of youth who have experienced significant trauma. Trauma can affect a youth’s ability to trust and form stable attachments, while years in out-of-home care may leave youth “out of practice” developing healthy relationships. The Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption’s approach emphasizes starting permanency preparation early and involving supportive adults who can help youth rebuild social and emotional skills, including communication, relationship-building, and navigating family and community dynamics. By using individualized strategies aligned with each youth’s cognitive, developmental, and emotional needs, we can build trust, resilience, and readiness for permanency. This approach is not simply about finding a family; it is about empowering young people to enter a stable, loving environment prepared to thrive. Engaging supportive adults throughout the process strengthens the foundation for long-term success, healthy relationships, and overall well-being.
Presenters:
Danielle DiMatteo, Training Associate Director, Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Stacy Gonzalez, Training Associate Director, Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Registration Fees:
FFTA Members: Free
Non-members: $75
This live webinar has been approved for 1.25 Clinical Continuing Education hours. Family Focused Treatment Association, #1659, is approved to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Organizations, not individual courses, are approved as ACE providers. State and provincial regulatory boards have the final authority to determine whether an individual course may be accepted for continuing education credit. FFTA maintains responsibility for this course. ACE provider approval period: 4/10/2025 - 4/10/2028.
Online registration is available until: 12/9/2026