In this course, we will talk about nine difficult situations that can arise between birth and adoptive parent, including if birth parents are addicted to alcohol or drugs. The instructor is Lori Holden, the author of The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption: Helping Your Child Grow Up Whole.

This course covers the following topics:

  • Explain the importance of setting healthy boundaries in the relationship with birth families.
  • List 2 ideas for maintaining the spirit of openness with birth parents who are suffering from substance abuse disorder.
  • List 2 ideas for handling when adopted children within the same adoptive family have different levels of openness with their birth families.


Outline for Open Adoption Handling Difficult Birth Parent Situations.pdf

*This course includes a 1-hour conversational audio lesson, a 10-question quiz, and a certificate of completion with the successful completion of the quiz at 80%. 

Your course will remain active for 180 days from purchase date.

This course aligns with the following regulatory requirements.

Virginia Compliance

22VAC40-131-210.A.14

22VAC40-131-210.A.18

22VAC40-131-210.A.19

*Important Information for agencies on Virginia core competencies.


Illinois Licensing Standard §401.520

*Important Information for agencies on Illinois Adoption Requirements.


Nebraska Licensing Requirement

005.16(D)(i)(3)

005.16(D)(i)(9)

*Important Information for agencies on Nebraska Adoption Requirements.