The Calling to Adopt guides readers in making the decision with increased confidence of whether to adopt a child. This decision is deeply personal for every prospective parent, whether straight or gay, male, female or gender nonconforming, single, coupled or married; and is influenced by our unique personal histories and emotions. To assist us in finding our way, it is informative to learn from those who have walked the path before us. This book includes the anecdotes of others who have been on this journey and provides thought-provoking questions encouraging honest self-reflection. In this guide to your introspective journey, Ellen Weber Libby relies on her personal experience as an adoptive parent and her decades as a psychotherapist who counseled men and women in making the decision best suited for them.

Based on a hugely successful US model, the Seven Core Issues in Adoption is the first conceptual framework of its kind to offer a unifying lens that was inclusive of all individuals touched by the adoption experience. The Seven Core Issues are Loss, Rejection, Shame/Guilt, Grief, Identity, Intimacy, and Mastery/Control. The book expands the model to be inclusive of adoption and all forms of permanency: adoption, foster care, kinship care, donor insemination and surrogacy. Attachment and trauma are integrated with the Seven Core Issues model to address and normalize the additional tasks individuals and families will encounter. The book views the Seven Core Issues from a range of perspectives including: multi-racial, LGBTQ, Hispanic, Asian, Native American, African-American, International, openness, search and reunion, and others. This essential guide introduces each Core Issue, its impact on individuals, offering techniques for growth and healing.

This book prepares a parent for those unexpected questions about sex. As the children get older, the ability to talk with them about sex and other sensitive subjects such as drugs and alcohol keeps communication open. The author prepares the parent for the 50 most asked questions, so that when they're asked, your answers will help them make good decisions.