Workshop focuses on adoption process

The Daily Inter Lake

A training workshop sponsored by Intermountain Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 focuses on understanding adoption to develop greater empathy for children.

Intermountain, a nonprofit organization, specializes in nurturing, therapeutic environments for children under severe emotional distress.

Jim FitzGerald, executive director, and Elizabeth Kohlstaedt, clinical director (both of Intermountain) and Sharon Kaplan Roszia, of the Kinship Center present the training designed for parents, juvenile justice workers, mental health professionals, educators, youth workers and church leaders.

FitzGerald trains parents and professionals across the country on such topics as complex trauma and treatment planning for special needs youths.

Kohlstaedt, a psychologist, has trained medical interns in New York and across Montana. She has appeared on Prime Time Live, National Public Radio and in the Los Angeles Times to discuss attachment disorders.

Roszia has worked in both the public and private sectors of the adoption field since 1963. She serves as Kinship Center of California's national presenter, trainer and author.

The training runs from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on both Friday and Saturday at the Red Lion Hotel Kalispell.Ê The cost is $25 for families or $60 for professionals. Continuing education credit is available.ÊTo register, contact Andee Dunick at 406-422-7529 or at andeed@intermountain.org.

Intermountain operates several Montana treatment centers and homes including a new crisis home for children in the Flathead Valley. Called Intermountain Providence Home, the new facility is expected to open in November.

A benefit for the home, "Calling All Angels Gala," takes place on Dec. 13 at the Hilton Garden Inn. For more information on sponsorship opportunities or to make a reservation, contact Amanda Creamer at 888-261-6014 or e-mail amandac@intermountain.org.