This in-person event will be held at Kanabec County Family Services and Public Health Building, 905 Forest Ave East, Room 101-102, Mora, MN 55051 

If capacity limit is reached, please email edu@fosteradoptmn.org to join the waitlist.

Maintaining primary relationships in foster care and adoption is crucial for the emotional well-being of children, providing stability, trust, and a sense of belonging. Consistent connections help build resilience and support healthy development. Learn ways these relationships can be maintained from both research as well as personal experiences.

Sarah Hamlin earned her Masters in Clinical Social Work from the University of St. Thomas/St. Catherine’s University. She is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. Sarah has been working with children and families for over 30 years and has been a play-based therapist since 2018.  She has extensive training in areas of trauma, attachment, child development, and neurobiology with a certification in Permanency and Adoption. Sara is a vetted therapist with Foster Adopt Minnesota and is a certified trainer for the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s) curriculum. Sarah brings lived experience to the community as an adoptive parent as she works with children’s primary family members. Sarah is married and has 4 adult children, one teenager and a  three-year-old grandson whom she adores!

Tia Dvorak is the founder of Regroup Counseling and Consulting PSC.  She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor, Registered Play Therapist Supervisor, and a Certified Synergetic Play Therapist. Tia has 10 years of experience working with children and families and specializes in helping families in the adoption and foster care systems. Tia enjoys working with parents and caregivers of children whose challenging pasts affect their daily lives. She works to provide the caregiver with tools and support to increase their attachment and positive relationships – while simultaneously decreasing negative behaviors.