The increasing number of gay men and lesbians choosing to adopt has brought the issue of gay and lesbian parenting to the forefront. Yet, not much information is available for current or prospective parents regarding the development of psychosocial skills for making a difference in children’s lives. This workshop will cover topics such as “Making the Decision to Adopt”, “Choosing a Type of Adoption”, “Preparing to Bring Your Child Home”, “Parenting your child”, and “Managing your new family as an LGBT parent”. Although adopting may feel overwhelming at times, the bottom line is that many LGBT people have successfully adopted children. Most gay and lesbian parents agree that the joy of bringing a child into your life far outweighs the hard work required. Like all worthwhile journeys, the path of same-sex adoptive parenthood is easiest when taken one step at a time.
Henrique Pereira is a Clinical Psychologist and professor of Psychology and Sexuality at the University of Beira Interior – UBI (Portugal). He holds a PhD in Clinical Psychology, is a member of the Portuguese Board of Psychologists, and develops work and research in the field of LGBT psychology, sexual identity and sexual minorities. As a gay adoptive father himself, he also has an inside perspective on the importance of developing psychosocial skills for a successful adoption process.