Inside Foster Care: Mental Health, Trauma-Informed Parenting & Real Solutions with Dr. John DeGarmo

Welcome back to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast! I’m Christine Marie — adoptive mom, former foster parent, and biblical mindset coach — and today’s guest is someone whose voice and impact in the foster care space cannot be overstated.

I’m honored to sit down with Dr. John DeGarmo, founder and director of The Foster Care Institute, international speaker, best-selling author of 10 books, and foster/adoptive dad to over 60 children. Dr. DeGarmo has worked alongside child welfare agencies across the globe and is a leading voice for system change and trauma-informed parenting.

In this conversation, we dive into the realities of foster care that few are willing to talk about — from the mental health crisis and over-medication of foster youth to the growing burnout among caregivers. We also talk about practical tools and mindsets that can help foster and adoptive parents stay grounded, effective, and full of hope even in the hardest seasons.

Whether you’re currently fostering, considering it, or simply want to better support foster families in your community, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and truth.

☕ So grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in.

XO, Christine Marie

🎧 In this episode, we cover:

• The over-medication crisis in foster care

• How trauma shows up in children and how to respond with connection

• The importance of mental health support for foster families

• What foster parents need most (and why many are walking away)

• Dr. DeGarmo’s personal journey and why he still believes in the system, despite its flaws

About Dr. John DeGarmo:

International keynote speaker and trainer Best-selling author of 10 books on foster care and parenting TED Talk presenter and media contributor Expert witness for foster care and child welfare legal cases Recipient of the Good Morning America Ultimate Hero Award and the Heroes of the Homeless Award

Connect with Dr. DeGarmo: Website: www.drjohndegarmofostercare.com More Resources: The Foster Care Institute

💕 Join Our Free Community of Christian Foster & Adoptive Moms: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen 🎥 YouTube Channel