Postadoption Support Services

Whether adopted at birth or later on in early childhood, we know children are at a greater risk for prenatal drug and alcohol exposures, prenatal stress, postnatal trauma and transitions. These early traumas often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, which can lead to serious secondary negative impacts in physical, mental and developmental health in early adolescence and adulthood. Early prevention and intervention before puberty is key to mitigating these secondary negative impacts.

Here at the Adoption Medicine Clinic, our comprehensive multidisciplinary team will:

• Assess children for complex medical, developmental, dental and mental health conditions related to trauma and early childhood adversities
• Support families with child-caregiver attachment, helping children feel safer during transitions
• Connect families to resources in their communities and schools to provide support to children at home
• Educate professionals and caregivers on best practices for supporting positive identity development in children 

Comprehensive Child Wellness Assessments (CCWA) are 60 to 90 minute clinical assessments that evaluate the mental, developmental, physical and oral health of children that have been placed into foster or kinship care. CCWAs are for children ages 0-10 years old as our services focus on early intervention and prevention.

Assessments Include:

• Head-to-Toe Physical Exam & Review of Medical History by a Pediatrician
• Developmental Screening by an Occupational Therapist
• Mental Health Risk & Assessment by a Child Psychologist
• Medical Screening for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders
• Lab Work to Screen for Underlying Medical Problems
• Oral Health Assessments by a Dental Hygienist (Monday Clinic Only)
• Referral & Resource Support
• Continued Follow-up through Early Childhood Development

*At this time, the Adoption Medicine Clinic is not providing FASD assessments or screening for children over the age of 10. If you are looking for a location that could support you with this need, email [email protected] for local recommendations.  

Learn about CCWAs and How to Schedule an Appointment