Our nervous systems develop and we have experiences, even before birth. We all enter the world pre-wired for connection…and survival. Whether a baby is adopted at birth or as an older child, one thing is certain: adoptive and foster families are formed with joy…and loss. The latest science teaches that our brains are predictive, opening up a broader perspective of nature and nurture, the adoption triad and the process of attachment. Interpersonal neurobiology shows us how we can foster authentic, integrative, neurobiological close connections with our children. As they grow into adolescence and adulthood, this broader understanding gives adopted people permission to understand themselves and to form a cohesive narrative that integrates all parts of the adoption triad.

 

Objectives:

Attendees will be able to

• discuss the implications of predictive brain science as applied to the adoption triad 

• review the impact of interpersonal neurobiology on the lifelong process of attachment and connection

• determine how to foster connections and neural pathways that help adopted children form a healthy sense of self  

 

Speaker Bio
First and foremost, Tiffany Sudela-Junker is a parent to two (now adult) children adopted through the Texas foster care system. Her “full circle” perspective on adoption and attachment comes not only from becoming a parent by adoption but also through her experiences as a birthparent. 

 

Tif currently resides in Washington State where she works as an attachment and trauma specialist. She is a nationally recognized speaker and collaborator in the area of attachment and trauma based caregiving, the CEO of XParenting and the founder of the RISE (Relational, Integrative, Supportive Experiences) philosophy of care. Tif’s Relational Mentoring framework has received national recognition as a protective factor for families experiencing the isolating impacts of early trauma. In addition to her work with children and families, Tif and her team consult with agencies, schools and organizations, creating trauma-informed support structures within communities.

 

In addition to founding the RISE philosophy of care, Tif is trained in Developmental Attachment, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Polyvagal Theory and Safe Sound Protocol (SSP), DDP (Developmental Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy), TBRI (Trust Based Relational Interventions), N.E.A.R (Neuroscience/Epigenetics/Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)/Resilience), Courage Works, Wholehearted Parenting, Post Institute, The Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) and D.T.A.P. Developmental Trauma Attachment Program (DTAP). 

 

Tif spends her time away from work listening to a wide variety of music and finding activities in and on the water. She enjoys laughing and playing with her young grandson, children, and husband and coffee time with a close group of friends she refers to as “The Committee.”

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