Adult Adoptees

Adoption is a complex and beautiful journey, but it often carries an underlying layer of trauma known as Relinquishment Trauma. This occurs when an individual is separated from their biological family, an event that, even in infancy, can leave a lasting imprint on emotional and psychological development. While adoption can offer love and belonging, it doesn’t erase the loss and grief of that initial separation.

In 1993, Nancy Verrier published her first book, The Primal Wound.  This book revolutionized the way society thinks about adoption. In this profound book, Nancy acknowledges and validates the pain and loss adoptees experience when relinquished from their birth mother. She quotes:  “Adoption loss is the only trauma in the world where the victims are expected by the whole of society to be grateful.” – The Primal Wound by Nancy Verrier.

Relinquishment trauma can show up in many ways throughout life, often as feelings of abandonment, a deep sense of loss, or difficulty forming secure attachments. It may lead to struggles with self-esteem, identity, or trust, sometimes manifesting as anxiety or depression. For some, these effects remain unspoken and misunderstood for years. For years, adoptees were without resources, even from counselors, to understand the impact of this primal wound on their psyche.

Adoption is a celebration for the adopting parents. However, for the infant, it is also a story of grief and loss, with the inherent complexity of its emotional impact.

As an adoptee myself, I understand what you may be experiencing. For a long time, I didn’t realize that some of my fears and emotions were connected to the trauma of being relinquished and adopted. Today, combining my training and personal healing journey, I hope to encourage and support you and others to uncover and heal what may be holding you back from living the life you desire with confidence and authenticity.

Healing from relinquishment trauma is about honoring both the loss and potential love that come with adoption. It’s about giving yourself the space to explore your story and discovering the strength and clarity to move forward with greater peace and wholeness. I provide a compassionate and supportive space for you to explore your unique challenges of adoption and relinquishment. I will be here to support you in processing your feelings of grief, loss, or confusion. Through trauma-informed approaches, we’ll address any hidden emotional wounds, beliefs, or coping patterns that might be impeding your healing and move you closer to experiencing life with more resilience, confidence and peace. 

If you or someone you know could benefit from exploring and healing how relinquishment trauma may be negatively impacting their life, please reach out for a 30-minute complimentary session. I would love to discuss further how I may be of service to you or others.