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Hello, I'm Dr. Kris Freeark.  I want you to have resources and a place to turn for those moments when you feel puzzled as an adoptive parent.

I'm a psychologist, family therapist, educator, and adoptive mom.  In all those roles I've learned how much is accomplished when adoptive families can talk about feelings and questions as they come up.

I created this community because I've also learned how much is gained when parents talk things through together. 

Something another family has learned could make your family's path easier.  Someone else's child may provide the nugget of perspective that helps you understand your own child.  

All these conversations -- in and outside your family -- strengthen understanding, trust and connection. 

Our name, Kinistry, captures the strength and resilience of adoptive families.  Whether Kinistry makes you think of the chemistry of creating belonging, or the artistry in becoming kin, you'll find a lot to learn from in this community.  There is strength in numbers and wisdom gained from experience.

Many adoptive parents don't know that there is now a lot of research from around the globe that shows how often adoptive families thrive.  It also shows what it takes to bring thriving about. Here at Kinistry, among the stories, strategies, resources, and support, we also sometimes talk findings (without getting too technical!) that shed light on day-to-day experiences.

Many people assume that adolescence + adoption = trouble.  That's not only a weighty expectation to carry for all the pre-teen years, but the research tells us it's not as accurate as people believe. 

Keeping the conversation going as your children get older can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. Investing in good communication from the early years can make a big difference.  

Welcome to Kinistry!  We're excited to learn from you and your kids too.  The questions you have may lead us all in new directions!

  

 

 

 

 

Feedback from parents

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"Thanks for leading our group and for your support and wisdom over the years. 

It helped me that people brought both adoption and non-adoption parenting perspectives, suggesting to me that probably some of [my son's] issues were adoption-related, and some weren’t. 

Hearing from parents of older kids sometimes made me feel that whatever he was going through, it just might pass. The long view sometimes is helpful! 

Your leadership and expertise definitely were big factors. You are always so welcoming, inclusive, sensitive, thoughtful, focused, accepting, perceptive and enthusiastic!

Hearing adoption stories created community, shared history, and fond memories.  Definitely an enormous blessing in the life of our family!"

-- A.M.

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"Thank you for your input on this situation at school that embarrassed our son so much.  
 
You are right - we cannot really understand this [not being a racial minority or adopted], but we can be supportive and offer tools when he is ready.
 
I think we need to just be more patient with his firm refusal to talk more about this.  But now I have more words and thoughts I can share.
  
Our deep thanks to you for these insights!"
 
 -- S. and R. 
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"I so greatly appreciate your thoughtfulness and presence with all of us.   It is clear that you care about our families and that is so tremendously affirming and valuable as we muddle our way through different challenges."

-- K.B.

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"As an adoptive mom, I just want you to know how much your emails have meant to me over the years. It has been so helpful!!! Thank you so much!

-- M.H.

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