for wisconsin families€¦ · adoptive families are different in some ways from non-adoptive...

POST-ADOPTION RESOURCE GUIDE

for Wisconsin Families

2 Post-Adoption Resource Guide

POST-ADOPTION RESOURCES IN WISCONSINThe phrase “adoption is forever” is widely used within the adoption community. It means that adoption is a lifetime commitment and that an adoptive family is always a family. Adoptive families, like all families, can sometimes find themselves facing unforeseen events for which they do not know where to go for answers, assistance, or support services. While it is sometimes easier for people to just ignore worrisome or uncertain situations, some issues need to be addressed or they may not go away. In fact, the problem could possibly become worse.

We want you to know that you are not alone, no matter what. Keep in mind that not all sections of this guide will be relevant to you and your situation. Most of these resources are available to all families, not just those who have adopted. Also remember that this is by no means an exhaustive list of the resources available, but rather this Resource Guide should be considered a starting point. Your local Post Adoption Resource Center can provide you with additional information and assistance.

Congratulations on choosing this unique and special opportunity to support and to build your family!

TABLE OF CONTENTSPost-Adoption Resources for Families ................................................................3

Home to Stay® .....................................................................................................3

Post Adoption Resource Centers ......................................................................4-5

Adoption-Related Websites ..............................................................................6-7

Adoption Assistance ............................................................................................7

Support Groups ...................................................................................................8

Early Childhood Interventions ............................................................................9

Educational Supports .................................................................................... 10-11

Diagnostic Evaluations .................................................................................. 12-13

Developmental Disabilities Services ................................................................. 14

Physical Disability Services ............................................................................... 15

Mental Health Supports ................................................................................ 16-17

Medicaid Certified Providers ............................................................................. 18

Respite Care ...................................................................................................... 19

Law Enforcement/Juvenile Justice System ....................................................20-21

Out-of-Home Placements ............................................................................ 22-23

Search and Reunion ..................................................................................... 24-25

College Tuition Assistance ........................................................................... 26-27

Adoptive families are different in some ways from non-adoptive families. When you do need help, there are supports available specifically for adoptive families. The Wisconsin Department of Children and Families funds the Post Adoption Resource Centers to perform the following services:

• Provide education, training, and support to adoptive families and professionals living in the identified service area.

• Improve community awareness of adoption by promoting a positive image of adoption and an increased understanding of the unique issues facing adoptive families.

• Host adoption celebrations.

• Provide adoption-related publications including books, videos, and audiotapes.

• Provide easily accessible information by maintaining an Internet website and toll-free phone service.

• Make referrals to service providers, support groups, and medical resources as applicable.

• Make adoption-related events known to interested parties as requested and post events on the Internet.

Home to Stay® is a signature program of the Coalition for Children, Youth & Families, supported by Jockey International, Inc., through its Jockey Being Family® corporate citizenship initiative. The Home to Stay® program connects families with a post-adoption specialist after a public child welfare adoption is finalized with personalized Jockey Being Family® backpacks for all of your children, as well as a special gift for parents. The backpacks are filled with “goodies” – handmade blankets, books, and games – all personalized to your child’s interests. Also included is information and resources to help you as you continue through the next phase of your adoption journey.

If you are interested in learning more about or receiving a Home to Stay® visit, please contact your local Post Adoption Resource Center.

POST-ADOPTION RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES

HOME TO STAY®

3Coalition for Children, Youth & Families

REGIONAL – POST ADOPTION RESOURCE CENTERS


NORTHEASTERNFamily Services of NE Wisconsin, Inc.

300 Crooks Street Green Bay WI 54305

Mail: PO Box 22308, Green Bay WI 54305-2308Toll Free: 800-998-9609 or 920-436-4360 ext 1264Fax Number: 920-432-5966E-Mail: [email protected]: www.familyservicesnew.org/parc

Counties Served: Brown, Calumet, Door, Fond du Lac, Green Lake, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Marinette, Marquette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Sheboygan, Waupaca, Winnebago, and Waushara

NORTHERNCatholic Charities Diocese of LaCrosse

540 S 3rd Avenue Wausau WI 54401

Toll Free: 888-212-4357Fax Number: 715-849-8414E-Mail: [email protected]: www.parc.cclse.org

Counties Served: Ashland, Bayfield, Florence, Forest, Iron, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Oneida, Portage, Price, Sawyer, Taylor, Vilas, and Wood

SOUTHEASTERN & MILWAUKEECoalition for Children, Youth & Families

6682 West Greenfield Avenue Suite 310Milwaukee WI 53214

Toll Free: 800-762-8063Fax Number: 414-475-7007E-Mail: [email protected]: www.postadoptccyf.org

Counties Served: Jefferson, Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth, Washington, and Waukesha


SOUTHERNCatholic Charities Diocese of Madison

702 South High Point Road, Suite 105Madison WI 53719

Toll Free: 800-236-4673Fax Number: 608-256-2350E-Mail: [email protected]: www.ccmadison.org

Counties Served: Adams, Columbia, Crawford, Dane, Dodge, Grant, Green, Iowa, Juneau, Lafayette, Richland, Rock, and Sauk

WESTERNCatholic Charities Diocese of LaCrosse

La Crosse3710 East Ave South LaCrosse WI 54601

Fax Number: 715-832-6686Toll Free: 888-212-4357E-Mail: [email protected]

Eau Claire448 N. Dewey St.Eau Claire WI 54703

Fax Number: 608-782-0702Toll Free: 888-212-4357E-Mail: [email protected]: www.parc.cclse.org

Counties Served: Barron, Buffalo, Burnett, Chippewa, Clark, Douglas, Dunn, Eau Claire, Jackson, LaCrosse, Monroe, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, Rusk, St. Croix, Trempea-leau, Vernon, and Washburn

ADOPTION-RELATED WEBSITES


Wisconsin Department of Children and Families | www.dcf.wisconsin.govThis site provides information on Badger Care Plus, Child and Family Safety, Child Care, Child Welfare, Foster Care and Adoption, Adoption Assistance, and Youth Services.

Coalition for Children, Youth & Families | www.postadoptccyf.orgThis website features information on post-adoption services including a calendar of educational events, conferences, and family fun events throughout Wisconsin. There is also a complete listing of DVDs and books available to be checked out and mailed, articles on post-adoptive issues, therapist lists, and support group and therapist listings for the State of Wisconsin. Contact information for all of the Post Adoption Resource Centers in the state can also be found here.

Wisconsin Adoption Information Center | www.wiadopt.orgThis website features information on all types of adoption. There is information specific to both birth parents and prospective adoptive families for all types of adoption. Legal issues, search and reunion, how to choose an agency, and a list of licensed agencies in Wisconsin can be found at this site. Links to information about foster care are available.

Wisconsin Foster Care and Adoption Resource Centerwww.wifostercareandadoption.orgThe Foster Care and Adoption Resource Center is here to provide information and resources for Wisconsin’s existing or prospective foster and adoptive families, public, tribal, and private agency foster care, child welfare and adoption staff, and youth currently or previously involved with the foster care system. This website also contains other related resources such as helpful lists, newsletters, stories of inspiration, and tips sheets that can be found as you explore the site further.

AdoptUsKids | www.adoptuskids.orgThe mission of AdoptUsKids is to recruit and connect foster and adoptive families with waiting children throughout the United States.

Casey Family Services | www.aecf.orgCasey Family Services’ website provides information and support to parents, youth, and professionals. The site provides access to information on conferences and meetings, training sessions, service models, advocacy services, chat boards, and personal adoption stories.

Child Welfare Information Gateway | www.childwelfare.govThis site provides information on child abuse and neglect and how to prevent it, out-of-home care and independent living, achieving and maintaining permanency, adoption and post-adoption services, supporting and preserving families, along with other resources that may be helpful.

National Adoption Center | www.adopt.orgThe National Adoption Center provides information on the adoption process, financial assistance, and national adoption organizations.

ADOPTION ASSISTANCE


North American Council on Adoptable Children | www.nacac.orgNACAC promotes and supports permanent families for children and youth in the U.S. and Canada who have been in care—especially those in foster care and those with special needs. NACAC focuses its program services in four areas: public policy advocacy, parent leadership capacity building, education and information sharing, and adoption support.

Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute | www.adoptioninstitute.orgThe Donaldson Adoption Institute provides leadership that improves adoption laws, policies, and practices – through sound research, education, and advocacy – in order to better the lives of everyone touched by adoption. The Institute conducts and synthesizes research, offers education to inform public opinion, promotes ethical practices and legal reforms, and works to translate policy into action.

Your child may have been approved for Adoption Assistance if he or she has developed, or is at risk of developing, special care needs. Adoption Assistance can only be granted before an adoption if it is necessary to assure a child’s adoption. It assists families in meeting the costs of caring for a child after the child has been placed for adoption and after adoption finalization. Adoption Assistance is granted for domestic adoptions only.

Adoption Assistance is determined by the special care needs of the child and may include:• Medical assistance for some medical costs not covered by the family’s insurance.• A monthly amount to adoptive parent(s) to assist meeting the financial demands

of caring for a child’s special needs.• Reimbursement of reasonable and necessary expenses incurred in order to

complete the adoption (e.g., legal fees and/or agency fees) up to $2,000.

Families are eligible to request an amendment to their original Adoption Assistance. An approval of an amendment request may occur if the following has taken place:• Twelve months have lapsed since adoption finalization.• The level of the difficulty of needs has increased in the supplemental care

category since adoption.• Limits for Adoption Assistance increases have not yet been reached, and• There is no substantiated child abuse or neglect by the adoptive parent(s)

relating to the child.

For more information on Adoption Assistance or how to proceed with an Adoption Assistance amendment, please contact the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families at 866-666-5532 (toll free) or 608-267-3905. To view a fact sheet and the amendment form on the DCF website, visit http://dcf.wisconsin.gov/publications/pdf/dcf_p_pfs4063.pdf.

SUPPORT GROUPS


An adoptive family support group is a network of parents who come together to share ideas, experiences, and concerns related to their children. It’s a non-threatening way for families to talk about the joys and frustrations that come with being an adoptive parent. These groups can meet in person, through newsletters, or online.

Adoptive parent groups can be valuable to both new and experienced adoptive parents. Some groups are for all parents, some are for parents of children with special needs (such as Down Syndrome, ADHD, Autism, substance abuse, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, emotional/behavioral problems, etc.).

In some groups, the focus is on sharing among parents, while in others it is on advocacy, and still others focus on education and training. Each group may combine all of these at one time or another. Also, many groups exist throughout the state for general parenting or disability issues and are open to all parents.

For information about a group in your area, or for help in starting a group, contact the Wisconsin Post Adoption Resource Center in your area. Or view a list of available adoption-related support groups throughout the state at www.postadoptccyf.org. (Click on Resources, Helpful Lists & Contacts, Adoption Related Support Groups (PDF).)

EARLY CHILDHOOD INTERVENTIONS


Wisconsin’s Birth to 3 Program is an early intervention program to help identify infants and toddlers who may have developmental delays or disabilities. Every county in Wisconsin has a Birth to 3 Program, which is mandated by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

An evaluation is completed to determine the child’s cognitive, physical/motor, speech, language, social, emotional, and adaptive development. The service coordinator works with the family to identify and assist in accessing services and supports. An Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is developed. Services and supports may include family education, developmental education services, communication services, related health services, occupational, and physical therapy.

To find out how to contact the Birth to 3 Program in your county, you may call Wisconsin First Step at 1-800-642-7837. This toll free information and referral service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The website for Wisconsin First Step is www.mch-hotlines.org.

Anyone can make a referral to the Birth to 3 Program. Parents are strongly encouraged to apply for service through the Birth to 3 Program if they have any concerns at all about their child’s development.

There is an ability to pay provision in the Birth to 3 Program and each county determines how that will be administered. In reality, very few families are required to pay for the service.

Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin has an International Adoption Clinic located in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The clinic does pre-adoptive medical reviews and psychosocial consultations, arrival medical examinations, and post-adoption physical and follow-up evaluations.

Once beyond the excitement and confusion of the initial phase of adoption, children and their adoptive families begin the process of establishing their new lives together. For most children, this involves learning and adapting to a myriad of new experiences. Supporting children and families through this critical and exciting time is a major goal of the adoption clinic.

Follow-up visits over the first year of adoption are encouraged, and developmental assessment of the child becomes the main focus of the visits.

Evaluation is also available for older children who were adopted from international settings if there is a concern about health, behavioral, or developmental problems.

The International Adoption Clinic can be reached through the hospital’s Child Development Center at 262-432-6600 or the website www.chw.org/childdevelpment.

EDUCATIONAL SUPPORTS


Children whose special needs are significant enough to meet established guidelines can receive help in the public schools through IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). Eligibility for special education services is determined with a multi-disciplinary evaluation, by an IEP team, depending on the school district. The evaluation is then reviewed every three years with a repeat of the testing, if appropriate. You or your child’s teacher can begin the referral process to receive special education services.

Special education services address the child’s unique education needs and are provided at no cost to the parent. They offer special full or part day classes, help in the regular classroom, therapies, social work and psychological support, special equipment, adaptations in scheduling, grading, and expectations. Your child’s involvement with special education services is planned yearly at a meeting where an Individual Education Plan (IEP) is developed and written.

Special education services include a wide variety of supports geared toward helping children reach their educational goals. You can contact the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (www.wi-bpdd.org), The Arc-Wisconsin Disability Association (www.arc-wisconsin.org/), Disability Rights of Wisconsin (formerly called the Wisconsin Coalition for Advocacy) (www.disabilityrightswi.org) or the Waisman Center, (www.waisman.wisc.edu) for guidance and further resources.

As parents, you can learn about how best to work with the school and to advocate for your child through the IEP process by contacting Wisconsin Family Assistance Center for Education, Training and Support (FACETS). They can help you prepare for an IEP meeting and a representative may attend if you desire. Wisconsin FACETS helps parents obtain appropriate education for their children, mediates between families and schools or agencies, and connects families of children with disabilities to community resources. The agency also provides training workshops to groups interested in learning about how to advocate. Wisconsin FACETS can be reached, toll free, at 877-374-0511 or on the web at www.wifacets.org.

Some areas where parent involvement and advocacy can be influential include: educating school staff on adoption and adoption-related issues, negotiating the amount of staff support your child will receive, determining your child’s educational placement, and developing a pro-active behavior support plan if it is needed. A wonderful resource for help with the legal aspect of educational issues is Wrightslaw, www.wrightslaw.com.

You can receive information about special education services by calling the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, 800-441-4563, www.dpi.state.wi.us, the special education department of your local school, or school district administrative office. You will need information about services available, eligibility, and your and your child’s rights. You can also obtain a brochure called Special Education Rights for Parents and Children from the Wisconsin DPI, Wisconsin FACETS, or your local school district.


Children with special education needs who do not meet the criteria for IDEA may qualify for a 504 Plan under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Some classroom modifications and accommodations may be available through this plan. You may want to contact Wisconsin FACETS, Disability Rights of Wisconsin (formerly Coalition for Advocacy), or the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction for further information on Section 504 regulations.

At some schools, social workers, counselors, and psychologists lead groups for students with similar special needs. Students may or may not have to be eligible for special education services to attend. The focus may be on substance abuse, social skills, anger management, and so on. Contact the school counselor at your child’s school.

You may find that your child could benefit from one-on-one instruction from a private tutor of your choice. Some schools maintain lists of tutors whom parents can hire. You can also advertise and/or learn of tutors from other parents. You can usually locate area private schools by looking in the yellow pages under Schools, Private.

Call the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction for a full information packet on the Home-Based Private Educational Program (home schooling), including a list of support groups. School districts are required to allow home schooling parents to order materials. They are also required to allow home-schooled children to participate in extra-curricular activities and to attend classes part-time on a space available basis.

RESOURCES:

• Wisconsin FACETS | 877-374-0511 | www.wifacets.org

• The Arc-Wisconsin Disability Association | 608-222-8907; 877-272-8400 www.arc-wisconsin.org

• Wrightslaw | www.wrightslaw.com

• Waisman Center | www.waisman.wisc.edu

• Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities | 608-266-7826; 888-332-1677 | www.wi-bpdd.org

• Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction | 800-441-4563 | www.dpi.state.wi.us

• Disability Rights of Wisconsin – Madison: 608-267-0214 Milwaukee: 414-773-4646 Rice Lake: 715-736-1252 | www.disabilityrightswi.org

• Parent Guide to Success K-12 | www.greatschools.org

DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATIONS


As your child grows and develops, you may notice one or more of the following situations that may indicate your child has a need for special services:

• She isn’t meeting developmental milestones.

• He doesn’t seem to see or hear well or doesn’t process information well.

• She rarely makes eye contact and doesn’t like to be touched.

• He has few or no friends.

• She is destructive to herself, others, animals, or the environment.

• He lies frequently and for no apparent reason.

• She is falling behind in school and/or is frequently in trouble in school.

• He seems to feel no remorse.

• She has inappropriate sexual behaviors.

• He is abusing/using alcohol or drugs.

For these or other reasons you might observe, it may become important to seek an evaluation by an expert to determine what is going on, how you can help, and what special services might be available. Different types of evaluations are available through different sources and for children of different ages. Contact the resources listed at the end of this section to find out exactly what an evaluation would include and select the type that will be most helpful.

Before the evaluation:

• Give the specialist a written list of your questions, concerns, and observations to help him in the evaluation and to make sure that your list is addressed.

• You may want to arrange for a spouse, friend, or advocate to accompany you for the evaluation report to help you remember questions and answers and to support you.

After the evaluation:

• Expect a written report as well as an in-person summary of the results.

• Expect practical suggestions as well as a diagnosis.

• Remember that only you can decide who should see the results of the evaluation.

• Feel free to arrange for a second opinion if you desire one. A second evaluation may not be covered by any funding.

• Know that you do not need to make any decisions about treatment at the time you first hear the evaluation results. Take time to think about it.

• Know that you can call back later with new questions that may arise.

• Remember that in most cases you are the best expert on your child. You can accept some recommendations that you feel “fit” and not use others.


Some sources for evaluations are:• Birth to Three Program | www.mch-hotlines.org (Wisconsin First Step website)

• Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction | www.dpi.state.wi.us

• Children with Special Health Care Needs www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/cyshcn/overview.htm

- Northeastern Region – 877-568-5205

- Northern Region – 866-640-4106

- Southeastern Region – 800-234-5437

- Southern Region – 800-532-3321

- Western Region – 800-400-3678

• Private hospitals and private providers

• Ask other parents, teachers, friends, and therapists for other sources for evaluations

Any of these contacts should be able to assist with the evaluation. Your area Post Adoption Resource Center can help you locate service providers in your area.

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES SERVICES


An estimated 15-18 percent of children in Wisconsin have special health care needs. Regional Centers for Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN) work together to form a statewide, integrated system for children with special health care needs and their families. Their services are free and confidential. (See a list of contact numbers for the CSHCN centers on page 13 of this booklet.)

These centers provide information, referral, and follow-up services to community resources, special needs information, and parent supports that are available within the community. Examples include local health departments, county and tribal human/social services, Social Security Administration, schools, child care resources and referral agencies, childcare providers, various local community-based organizations, WIC, Birth to 3, Family Support, and Independent Living Centers.

Advocacy agencies working to improve services to families:DAWN (Disability Advocates: Wisconsin Network) is a grassroots, statewide network of people who care about disability issues. DAWN is funded through the Wisconsin Council on Developmental Disabilities. This network seeks to provide leadership training for people with disabilities and their family members who want to organize advocacy projects. For more information, check DAWN’s website at www.dawninfo.org or call the Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities at 608-266-7826 or 888-332-1677.

ABC for Health, Inc. (Advocacy & Benefits Counseling for Health), is a Wisconsin-based nonprofit public interest law firm dedicated to ensuring health care access for children and families, particularly those with special needs or who are at risk. ABC for Health’s mission is to provide health care consumers with the information, advocacy tools, legal services, and expert support they need to navigate through America’s complex and confusing health care financing system. ABC for Health provides health benefits, counseling, legal assistance, policy advocacy, training and consultation, and speakers and publications on health care financing topics.

To contact ABC for Health, call 800-585-4222. You may also visit their website at www.safetyweb.org.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Disability Rights of Wisconsin | www.disabilityrightswi.org

Madison Office | 608-267-0368Milwaukee Office | 414-773-4646Rice Lake Office | 715-736-1232

Arc-Wisconsin Disability Association, Inc. | www.arc-wisconsin.org608-222-8907 or 877-272-8400

Wisconsin Coalition of Independent Living Centers (coalition of 8 regional centers)608-444-3842, 800-362-9877 | www.il-wisconsin.net/coalition

Waisman Center | 608-263-3301 | www.waisman.wisc.edu

Autism Society of Wisconsin | 888-428-8476 | www.asw4autism.org


There are some families that parent children with physical disabilities. A physical disability is defined by the Department of Health Services as a physical condition “which significantly interferes with or significantly limits at least one major life activity of a person.” There are resources for families that are dealing with physical disabilities including county and state services.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS)DHS is the department that serves families with disabilities. Located on the website are various services, as well as a detailed list of county agencies that work with families. http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/Disabilities/Physical

Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS)AIRS is the professional association for over 1,000 community information and referral (I&R) providers, primarily in the United States and Canada - helping to bring people and services together for over 30 years. www.airs.org/

Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association The Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association (D.D.N.A.) exists to provide opportunities for exploration of common issues and concerns, education and professional recognition to those nurses involved in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. www.ddna.org/ 800-888-6733

Waisman Center The Waisman Center is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge about human development, developmental disabilities, and neuro-degenerative diseases throughout the lifespan. The center is one of nine national facilities that includes a Mental Retardation Developmental Disabilities Research Center and a University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities. www.waisman.wisc.edu/ 608-263-3301

Medline PlusMedlinePlus is the National Institutes of Health’s website for patients and their families and friends. Produced by the National Library of Medicine, it brings you information about diseases, conditions, and wellness issues in language you can understand. MedlinePlus offers reliable, up-to-date health information, anytime, anywhere, for free.

You can use MedlinePlus to learn about the latest treatments, look up information on a drug or supplement, find out the meanings of words, or view medical videos or illustrations. You can also get links to the latest medical research on your topic or find out about clinical trials on a disease or condition. www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/

PHYSICAL DISABILITY SERVICES

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS


Adoption is a unique and special way to build a family; it brings both rewards and challenges. Sometimes families will need or want professional help as concerns or issues arise. Timely intervention by an experienced professional can often prevent more serious problems, but choosing the right mental heath provider for a family can be challenging.

Insurance coverage, geographic location, specialties, and philosophies of treatment are all factors to consider when selecting a provider. For recommendations, go to other adoptive parents, support groups, local adoption agencies, mental health associations, universities, and hospitals or medical schools with psychology or psychiatry departments. The Post Adoption Resource Center in your area can also help you in this process. There are many different types of providers:

• Psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D.) who specialize in evaluating major emotional or mental disorders. Psychiatrists are able to prescribe medications, as they have completed medical school and post-graduate training in psychiatric disorders. Most of the time, if not always, psychiatrists do not provide therapy.

• Psychologists have a completed doctorate degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology, as well as advanced courses in general development, psychological testing and evaluation, and psychotherapy techniques. Psychologists cannot prescribe medications, but provide various types of therapy and can refer you to a psychiatrist if necessary.

• Clinical Social Workers (MSW) have completed a Master’s Degree in social work and tend to emphasize a family’s structure and children’s social abilities. Focus tends to be on social, educational, and family adjustment issues. Many have completed advanced training or licensure to offer specialized services to individuals and families.

• Licensed Professional Counselors have completed studies in a specialty such as education, psychology, pastoral counseling, or marriage and family therapy. Often the focus is on reorganizing of the family, building communication skills, and strengthening family relationships.

Once possible providers have been identified, the parent(s) may want to interview the provider before making a decision. Be sure to prepare a list of questions ahead of time to make wise use of everyone’s time.

Questions you may want to ask include:

• How long have you been practicing?

• What diagnoses do you specialize in?

• What is the nature of your training?

• How many adopted children have you worked with this year? Over the past five years?

• What hours do you have available to see my child?


• How are emergencies handled in your practice? Are you “on-call” after hours?

• What treatment philosophies do you use?

• What degrees or certifications do you hold?

• What types or techniques of therapy do you practice?

• To what degree do you include parents in your treatment?

• Have you participated in post-degree training in adoption? Bipolar, attachment, etc?

• What are your fees or co-pays not covered by insurance?

• What guidelines do you use for prescribing or recommending medications?

• Which psychiatrists do you associate with for case consultation and prescribing medication?

In addition to information about the mental health provider, parents find that they get a “good feeling” from the provider they will ultimately work with and have an intuitive sense as to whether their child will respond well to that person. Remember, family members are consumers of services and have a right to ask questions.

After you have selected a mental health provider, and you’ve started to have meetings, continue to evaluate the services the family and child are receiving. Continue to ask:

• Do I feel comfortable with and confident in the therapist?

• Do I trust the therapist?

• Do the therapist’s values resemble mine and those I want to instill in my child?

• Do you believe the therapist’s training and professional counseling experience make them able to meet the needs of your child?

• Are the cost, location, and schedule within my means?

• Do I agree with the answers the therapist gave to my questions?

• Is the help I’m getting direct and immediate?

• Are there specific goals? Are they realistic and achievable?

• Do I feel involved in the counseling process?

• Am I confident in the therapist’s ability to help my family?

If the answer to any of the above questions is “no,” you may want to address those issues with the provider. Let the provider know about any concerns and talk about how your concerns can be resolved. For parents who are still not comfortable, it may be best to find a new provider or ask for a referral to another professional. Remember, you and your family are the consumers and the priority needs to be finding help and support.

We strive to include a wide variety of resources, and the inclusion of specific therapists or practices in our informational materials should not be construed as endorsement of those providers or their methods.

MEDICAID CERTIFIED PROVIDERS


Finding a physician, dentist, or mental health provider that accepts Medicaid can be a challenging process. Sometimes, providers that do accept Medicaid are not accepting new patients. If you are in need of a provider that accepts Medicaid, please call the Wisconsin Medicaid and Badgercare Program at 800-362-3002 or visit www.forwardhealth.wi.gov/WIPortal/Subsystem/Public/DirectorySearch.aspx. They will be able to provide you with a current list of certified Medicaid providers.

RESPITE CARE


Most adoptive parents discover that respite care options are rather limited. Experience has shown that it is more common for programs to assist families with respite care by providing a reimbursement for the costs of the care, rather than by supervising and placing respite providers. Families, however, report that they have difficulty finding people with the skills and motivation to provide care for their children, no matter how much money they offer.

You may want to ask other parents or professionals if they know of potential resources for respite care. You might also explore options through the local Department of Human or Social Services agency. Sometimes YMCAs, schools, parenting centers, and community centers have youth programs that free parents for periods of time. Also, the Family Support Program, which exists in every county, can be used to pay for respite. Contact the Human or Social Services Department within your county for information about the Family Support Program.

Sometimes parents advertise in the newspapers and hire respite care providers themselves. You may want to advertise, screen, and train applicants before you need them, as some time and effort is required. Standard applications for employment are available at many office supply stores. You should ask for and check references. You can also request chosen applicants to provide you with recent results of both a background check from your county’s local Department of Human or Social Services and fingerprinting from the local police or sheriff’s department. There are fees for both. After recruiting, interviewing, and screening applicants, parents then handle the training themselves and can explore local programs for possible reimbursement.

For teens, some communities have emergency or runaway shelters designed to offer short-term housing and support. They can be helpful as a place for an adolescent to “cool off” after a difficult time at home. The family or teen may be able to make arrangements for the teen to stay at a shelter on their own. Many are grant funded and free of charge to families. The local Department of Human or Social Services may be able to tell you if a shelter exists in your community and is a viable option.

Wisconsin is also fortunate to have the Respite Care Association of Wisconsin (RCAW). This organization provides respite training, keeps track of active respite providers within the state, and can provide information about respite funding. For more information, please contact the Respite Care Association of Wisconsin at 608-222-2033 or toll free at 866-702-7229. You can also visit them on the web at www.respitecarewi.org.

One of your best possibilities of finding respite is to get involved with your local Post Adoption Resource Center support groups or foster and adoption parent support groups. Other parents frequently offer good insights and empathy and might be the respite you need. To get involved with a local support group, contact WFAPA (Wisconsin Foster and Adoptive Parents’ Association) at http://wfapa.org.

The availability and eligibility of publicly funded respite care varies among counties. Contact the Human Services Department within your county to determine the resources in your area.

Your regional Post Adoption Resource Center may also be able to assist you in locating a respite resource in your area.

LAW ENFORCEMENT/JUVENILE JUSTICE SYSTEM


Some children who were adopted, especially adolescents, bring themselves and their families into contact with law enforcement authorities and the juvenile justice system, sometimes on more than one occasion. Acting out in ways that lead to involvement with law enforcement and juvenile justice can be one of the ways your child/teen acts out his confusion and anger about his history, identity, and past traumas.

For most adoptive families, contact with the police, courts and judges, detention centers, and juvenile justice social workers is the least expected and one of the most frightening experiences they encounter. It’s a system with which they’ve had little or no experience. Adoptive families also find little understanding from neighbors, family, and friends when their child becomes involved in this system.

There are typically three ways a child or adolescent may enter contact with law enforcement and the juvenile justice system:

• The child/teen refuses to go to school. Since school attendance is mandated by law, schools have a responsibility to report truancy concerns to authorities in chronic cases. If your child has an attendance problem, you should be able to meet with school staff and work out an agreement for communication and consequences.

• The child/teen engages once or repeatedly in illegal behavior in the community, which may lead to his arrest. He may or may not be detained in a juvenile facility similar to a jail. In this situation, you may want to hire a private attorney or a defense attorney will be appointed by the judge through the public defender’s office. Many communities have juvenile justice diversion programs, which may provide helpful alternative consequences for your child. These programs often involve community service, probation, mandatory substance abuse treatment, or classes such as anger management.

• The child/teen may do things at home, which are dangerous and/or illegal, and she may be unwilling to accept your limits or controls. She may threaten or become violent or destructive at home, run away repeatedly and for significant periods of time, refuse the structure of family rules such as curfew, or steal from family members. After they have tried everything, many parents contact the police themselves for help. This can sometimes lead to new services for your child/teen. Some parents are reluctant to turn their child in if he or she is breaking the law. However, in many cases, this “tough love” approach helps you get the services you need.

If you find yourself in these or similar situations, be certain to seek support from your child’s therapist, other adoptive parents, and supportive friends and family. Sometimes, a child coming in contact with the legal system can qualify the child and family to receive services such as counseling, mentors, and anger management, among others. Be sure to ask the law enforcement representative overseeing your child if these services can be made available to your child and family.


If you would like to voluntarily seek out legal intervention for your child, you may request an order to file a CHIPS or JIPS Petition. CHIPS stands for “Children in Need of Protection and Services.” CHIPS applies to all children 17 and under. JIPS stands for “Juveniles in Need of Protection and Services.” JIPS applies to children 10 to 17. Your request results in a legal document asking the court to order that the case be referred to the District Attorney’s Office for a CHIPS or JIPS petition. Persons living in Milwaukee County can access these services through the Family Intervention Support and Services by calling 414-257-4319. All people in other areas of the state can contact their county Department of Human Services.

OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENTS


In some cases, it is necessary for children who are adopted to leave their families for a period of time for structured, intensive therapy or diagnostic evaluation. If you are seeking an out-of-home placement, it does not necessarily mean that the adoption is dissolving. The adoptive family continues to parent the child even while he or she lives somewhere else for a long or short period of time. It is often difficult for families to make the decision to arrange for the child to live someplace else for a period of time, but it helps to accept this kind of placement as an additional support for a special needs child.

In most communities, there are a range of family support services for adoptive families needing out-of-home placements for their child or children. Families usually consider an out-of-home placement for their child or children only after they have exhausted all of their options and continue to face severe behavior in their own home and the child or others are unsafe. If you are an adoptive parent in this situation, it may be helpful to document behaviors of concern, as well as the efforts you have made to alleviate them.

Out-of-home placements are either short-term or long-term placements. For a short-term placement, inpatient evaluations are often completed in a hospital setting and may take a few days to several weeks. In addition, an emergency placement in a psychiatric unit may occur for an intensive, highly structured treatment program typically lasting between three and ten days. Generally speaking, the private health insurance of the family can often arrange for the inpatient evaluation or hospital treatment plan. If your child has Medicaid, the Medicaid process would make the referral if hospitalization were determined to be necessary. It is important to remain involved with your child’s care even if they are placed out of your home.

Long-term placements are generally foster home placements or group care facilities. Foster parents receive ongoing training and support from professionals to care for delinquent children and adolescents. Long-term group care settings often serve children or teens for six months to two years, depending upon the individual needs of the child. The design of the group home facility may vary from county to county and in terms of their structure, services, and philosophies. A child receives his or her education within the group home setting or attends a public school located close to the group home. Group care placements require a juvenile court order. Families may be able to visit in advance of placement to learn about the specific program that may or may not meet the needs of their special needs child. This is the preferred way of making a placement plan if your child needs to be placed out of your home. However, should a crisis occur, such pre-planning might not be possible.

The cost for long-term out-of-home care is high. In general, families are required to pay a percentage of out-of-home costs on their own. This can be very costly. If you are receiving adoption assistance, Wisconsin statute (s. 46.10(14)(cm) provides specific requirements about court-ordered child support for certain out-of-home care placements in a residential, non-medical facility (such as a group home, foster home, treatment foster home, or residential care center).


In these cases, the child support is usually set at the percentage standard or the amount of the Adoption Assistance, whichever is less. Families should seek assistance from their county Department of Human or Social Services agency for help with financial supports. Generally speaking, the adoption subsidy an adoptive family receives from the State of Wisconsin would contribute to out-of-home care expenses. Each case is individual in reference to financial planning. The first resource would be to approach your local Department of Human Services to determine the availability of foster care or long-term group placement for your child and negotiate the payment plan.

There are various support groups throughout the state of Wisconsin that may serve as a good resource for you when you may be considering an out-of-home placement related to safey for your child or children. The Wisconsin Foster and Adoptive Parent Association (WFAPA) is a state-wide resource for foster and adoptive families. You can find them at www.wfapa.org. Some communities have local parent support group chapters. Also, the Post Adoption Resource Centers have available information to specifically help you plan for the needs of your child.

SEARCH AND REUNION


When the time comes that you or your adopted child want information about the birth family, there are sources of help available to you.

In 1982, the State of Wisconsin established the Wisconsin Adoption Records Search law (Wisconsin Statutes 48.432 and 48.433). This law was recently revised to allow adopted persons to search for birth records at age 18 instead of 21. The primary purpose of the law is to help persons who have been adopted or whose birth parents have terminated their parental rights to obtain information about themselves and their birth relatives. This information includes:

• Non-Identifying social history information.

• Medical/genetic information about birth parents and members of their families, including routine health information and any known hereditary or degenerative diseases.

• Most recent names and addresses of birth parents in the files of Department of Children and Families when affidavits are on file or obtained.

• A copy of the impounded birth certificate on record prior to the time of the child’s adoption.

The law specifies conditions and protections under which the search may be conducted. Birth parents have the right to file a notarized statement (affidavit) consenting to the release of identifying information or the right to refuse to allow the release of the information about themselves. The present law does not allow birth parents to search for their birth children. Also, the current adoption search law does not allow siblings to request searches for each other.

You or your child may want to know how the adoption search law affects the adopted person. Some key components include:

• When an adopted person is 18 years of age, he can request medial/genetic information about his birth parents and relatives and non-identifying social history information. Adoptive parents can request this information at any time.

• Through the Adoption Records Search program, adoptees over age 18 and adoptive parents can also request that birth parents be contacted and asked to provide updated medical/genetic information.

• At age 18, an adopted person may request a search for her birth parent’s identity and location and a copy of her impounded birth certificate.

• Identity and location of birth parents will not be disclosed unless an affidavit of consent has been signed by the birth parent(s). If a court has determined paternity or the parents were married at the time of conception/birth, affidavits are required from both birth parents.

• If affidavits are on file at the time of the search request, the name and location of the birth parent(s) will be released to the adoptee. The adoptee is eligible for a copy of his impounded birth certificate.


• If affidavits for consent are not on file, a diligent search for the birth parent(s) is conducted by the State of Wisconsin Adoption Records Search program or the agency that conducted the adoption. If located, the birth parent(s) has the option of signing an affidavit of consent to release non-identifying information or refuse to do so.

• If your child was adopted in another state, you will need to contact that state to find out what services are available.

International adoption laws vary by country. Therefore, families will need to research the law surrounding search and reunion in the country from which their child was adopted. Oftentimes, little or no information about the birth parents is available at the time of adoptive placement. Alternatives may include visiting the country or community where the child was born, connecting with other families who have adopted from the same county, or contacting the agency of the orphanage that you worked with at the time of the adoptive placement.

On the Internet, you may find a support network of parents who have adopted children from the same country you have adopted from and you can learn from there where to start in reference to search and reunion.

Generally speaking, adoption reunions can be a positive and meaningful experience for the birth parents, the adopted child, and the adoptive parents. Keep in mind that you should not expect or anticipate a close relationship developing upon the initial meeting with one another. It is quite possible that it will take time for you to develop a meaningful relationship that can meet the needs and expectations of the birth parents, the adoptee, and the adoptive parents.

For many people, the search and reunion process can be stressful and may or may not bring about the desired results anticipated. You are encouraged to seek professional counseling to deal with issues that may occur during your search process. There are support groups on the Internet and local communities for people who are searching and anticipating a reunion with their birth parents.

To begin a search, contact the State of Wisconsin Adoption Records Search program at P.O. Box 8916, Madison, WI 53703-8916 or phone 608-266-7163. www.dcf.wi.gov/children/adoption/adoption_search/default.htm

Some other sources of information on searches are:

• Child Welfare Information Gateway, www.childwelfare.gov or 800-394-3366

• Wisconsin Adoption Information Center, www.wiadopt.org

COLLEGE TUITION ASSISTANCE-CONTINUING EDUCATION


Many colleges, specifically those in the private sector, offer scholarships specific to foster and adopted children. These scholarships vary in dollar amount and eligibility requirements. If your child is considering college, please inquire with the financial aid department to see if such scholarships may be available. Wisconsin also has specific statewide grants available to youth who have been in out-of-home care and are entering a degree, license, or certificate program.

Resources:

Wisconsin Department of Children and Families’ ScholarshipsScholarships are available specifically to youth who have spent time in out-of-home care and are entering a degree, license, or certificate program. More information can be found by calling 608-267-7287 outside Milwaukee or 414-343-5713 in Milwaukee county or by visiting https://www.gtc.edu/sites/default/files/files/documents/DCF%20Scholarship%20Application%20Youth%20in%20Out-of-Home%20Care_2014%20.pdf.

Foster Care to Success (FC2S)This program offers scholarships for academic or vocational training beyond high school for foster and former foster youth throughout the United States. Information on applying can be found at www.fc2success.org. Mentoring and support programs are also available.

Smart Student Guide to Financial Aid www.finaid.org

United Negro College Fund www.uncf.org

COMPASS Guide www.compassguide.org

Federal Student Aidhttp://www.fafsa.ed.gov/

The Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) is the nation’s leading organization supporting Hispanic higher education. HSF was founded in 1975 with a vision to strengthen the country by advancing college education among Hispanic Americans – the largest minority segment of the U.S. population. http://www.hsf.net

Kids Matter Inc.http://www.kidsmatterinc.org/foster-youth-and-foster-alumni/education-and-employment/financial-aid-and-scholarships/

COLLEGE TUITION ASSISTANCE – CONTINUING EDUCATION


Mapping Your Future is a national, collaborative, public service project of the financial aid industry – bringing together the expertise of the industry to provide free college, career, financial aid, and financial literacy services for students, families, and schools. www.mappingyourfuture.org

Scholarship America has awarded more than one billion dollars to more than one million students. http://www.scholarshipamerica.org/

Scholarships.com and Fastweb.com have helped students of all ages and backgrounds find money for college since 1998.

The Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund was established in 1987 to carry on Justice Marshall’s legacy of equal access to higher education by supporting exceptional merit scholars attending America’s Public Historically Black Colleges and Universities. http://www.thurgoodmarshallfund.net

For additional resources, visit www.wifostercareandadoption.org.

6682 W. Greenfield Avenue, Suite 310Milwaukee WI 53214

TEL: 414-475-1246 V/TDD: 800-762-8063 FAX: 414-475-7007 E-MAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: www.coalitionforcyf.org

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MISSION: To inspire, inform, and support individuals and families caring for children touched by foster care and adoption.

© Coalition for Children, Youth & Families 2018

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