Sibling Relationships in Adoption: Assessment and Intervention for Complex Family Dynamics
Dates: 5/1/26, 5/8/26, and 5/15/26
Time: 12-2pm EST/11am-1pm CST/9-11am PST
Faculty: Dr. Bonni Goodwin
This 3-session, 6-hour course will dig into rarely discussed areas of siblings in adoption. Drawing from all available research, Dr. Goodwin will discuss complex variables that evolve over their life course for siblings. With consideration to the early years of siblings being placed together or apart, and through search and reunions in subsequent years, Dr. Goodwin will provoke deep thinking about the nature of sibling relationships. Conversations will cover how to assess and address sibling dynamics on a case-by-case basis – including a new Sibling Assessment Tool -- and common practice dilemmas such as differing relationships, visitation with birth parents or each other, gaps in age or birth order, and how to include siblings who are not biologically connected. This course includes robust skills building activities and optional participation in case simulations.
About the Faculty:
Bonni Goodwin, Ph.D., LCSW, is an Assistant Professor at the Anne and Henry Zarrow School of Social Work and Director of the Center for Adoption and Family Well-Being at the University of Oklahoma. She also serves with the Oklahoma Human Services Child Welfare division as the Statewide Coordinator of Adoption Preservation Services.
Dr. Goodwin’s current research focuses on child welfare policy and practice that supports permanency through adoption as well as mental health specialization with the foster care and adoption population. Adoption is a lifelong impact that presents unique challenges for families and adult adoptees. Effective clinical service and support for this population requires specialized training and perspective. Dr. Goodwin engages in training, consultation, and macro-level systems work at the state and national level to expand the awareness of this critical practice specialization. She is committed to using research to guide policy and program development, implementation, and evaluation to respond to the needs of adoptive families and adult adoptees.
Sibling Relationships in Adoption: Assessment and Intervention for Complex Family Dynamics
This 3-session, 6-hour course will dig into rarely discussed areas of siblings in adoption. Drawing from all available research, Dr. Goodwin will discuss complex variables that evolve over their life course for siblings.
