Dr. Murali helps us understand genetics by providing a brief overview of basic genetics, talking about various genetics tests and how they differ, briefly touching on possible pitfalls in direct to consumer genetic tests, and outlining reasons why a child may benefit from genetic testing. Ultimately, understanding genetics helps us understand how children may adopt traits from their biological parents, how they may not, and how we can use genetics to help children thrive.

Speaker

Dr. Chaya Murali is a pediatric geneticist working at Texas Children's Hospital, where she sees patients with a wide array of suspected or diagnosed genetic disorders. Her interest in genetics blossomed when she was a teenager, and her work is characterized by a deep interest in family dynamics and inheritance, both biological and otherwise. Dr. Murali's research focuses on quality of life, patient-reported outcomes, and other psychosocial aspects of living with a genetic disorder, for both affected children and their families. She is passionate about educating healthcare professionals, students, and laypeople on genetics topics. In addition to her clinical, research, and education work, Dr. Murali is a published personal essayist. Her written work focuses largely on the immigrant experience, family, inheritance, and identity.

Have you ever wondered why someone would choose to make an adoption plan for their infant or child? Do you feel confident is discussing adoption with someone who may be facing an unplanned pregnancy or difficult circumstances? This presentation will focus on the how and why someone would make and adoption plan and how you can help someone who may want more information about adoption. Below is some of the important information you will learn more about during this comprehensive program.

Why women or families may choose to place their baby or child for adoption

• Details about the adoption process
• Legal aspects of adoption
• Services for clients
• Adoption best practices
• How to make an adoption referral in a non-directive and ethical manner
• Adoption resources

Speaker

Jennifer Lanter is the Vice President of Communications for the Gladney Center for Adoption. Jennifer provides a unique and engaging perspective on the subject of adoption and has worked in the adoption field for over 16 years. In addition to her professional experience with adoption, Jennifer and her family adopted a precious little boy 15 years ago.

As a Fort Worth native, Jennifer Lanter received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Texas in Arlington. She began her career at the Gladney Center and has since dedicated her career to creating bright futures through the miracle of adoption.

Jennifer has extensive media experience and has worked with People magazine, Oprah Winfrey Network, Lifetime, MTV, Washington Post, New York Times and several other media outlets. Jennifer is passionate about public speaking and loves the message of hope and adoption across the world!

In this episode of Gladney University Podcast, we bring you "Practical Self Care Planning" with speaker Lindsay C. M. Garrett, LMSW. Garrett is a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in child welfare and adoption for almost ten years. With extensive training in trauma, child development, and connected parenting, Lindsay guides families through pre-adoption training and supports them after their adoptions. Lindsay’s first book Parent Goals: The Millennial’s Guide to New Parent Preparedness, will be released in November 2021. In addition to books, Lindsay currently writes for Houston Mom’s Blog, a part of the national City Mom’s Blog network.

Lindsay will give a brief background on the deeper impact of self care, then guide listeners through identifying what strategies will be effective for you personally, and developing an actionable self care plan that you can apply that same day.

Resources:

Parent Goals: The Millennial's Guide to New Parent Preparedness

For more Gladney University trainings, please visit our website.