Additional Coverage:
- ‘Teen Mom’ Catelynn Baltierra regrets not having guidance when she signed papers for an open adoption (newsbreak.com)
Local Teen Mom star Catelynn Baltierra is opening up about the challenges of adoption, 16 years after placing her first child, Carly, with adoptive parents. The emotional experience has resurfaced past trauma for Baltierra and her husband Tyler. The couple is now navigating a closed adoption, meaning communication with Carly and her adoptive parents has ceased.
Baltierra revealed that the loss of contact triggered PTSD symptoms for both her and Tyler. They’ve sought support from other birth parents and immersed themselves in understanding the adoptee experience. The couple are also parents to three younger daughters, and they are working to help their 10-year-old, Nova, understand the complexities of Carly’s adoption.
Reflecting on her experience as a young birth mother, Baltierra wishes she had been better informed about the potential challenges adoptees face. She now advocates for greater education and legal representation for birth parents considering adoption, stressing the importance of a strong support system.
Baltierra believes all adoptive parents should be trauma-informed, understanding how past experiences can affect a child’s well-being. She also firmly believes open adoptions are healthier for children, allowing them to ask questions and receive honest answers.
Looking ahead, Baltierra’s priority is Carly’s happiness and well-being. She and Tyler are prepared to respect whatever decision Carly makes about their future relationship, emphasizing their desire to support her in becoming a “healthy and solid person.”