Strengthening Roots for Growing Families: Preparation for Adoption or PMC

This orientation supports families who are pursuing or have already finalized adoption or Permanent Managing Conservatorship (PMC). Through trauma-informed education, reflection, and practical strategies, participants will gain a deeper understanding of children’s experiences and learn ways to strengthen safety, connection, healing, and resilience within their families. Parents/Caregivers will be paid $150 stipend upon completion of orientation. Childcare and boxed lunches will be provided for parents, caregivers, and children. Learning objectives: • Build realistic expectations and greater confidence for the lifelong journey of adoption or permanent managing conservatorship. • Understand how children’s past experiences can influence their development, relationships, and behavior. • Learn therapeutic parenting strategies that promote felt safety, emotional regulation, connection, and resilience. Meet Our Presenters: Samantha Zuniga Thompson, LCSW-S, has more than 15 years of experience supporting children and families affected by trauma. Since 2019, she has worked at the Texas Institute for Child & Family Wellbeing, leading program development, training, workforce support, and clinical supervision initiatives that strengthen child welfare systems. Samantha specializes in trauma-informed practices and equitable interventions that empower caregivers and help families thrive. She holds a Master of Science in Social Work from The University of Texas at Austin and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Texas State University. She has also completed Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics Training Certification through Phase II. Erika Settles, LMSW, is a Permanency Training Coordinator with the Texas Institute for Child & Family Wellbeing, where she develops and facilitates learning opportunities for child welfare professionals, caregivers, and community partners. With more than 12 years of experience in child welfare, Erika brings a trauma-responsive approach that centers youth and family voice, self-determination, and cultural connections. She also provides clinical services as a therapist. Erika holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Houston and a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Texas at Austin. She is Dare to Lead™️ trained.