Adoption is complex, and many adoptees have questions and feelings that don’t fit dominant narratives. There is no single story in adoption, and yet most adoptees struggle with identity, grief and loss, belonging, anger, reunion aftermath, and the impact of secrecy or silence. This page offers two paths to help adoptees answer questions, process and understand their feelings, and learn about the system of adoption:
Adoption-Competent Therapy with Joanne for personal support.
A Reading Room for adoptee-centered learning from a Critical Adoption Studies and Reproductive Justice lens.
FAQ:
Is the Adoptee Reading Room therapy?
No. It’s an educational library for readers. If you want therapy, use the “Therapy With Joanne” option above.
What if I don’t identify as “in the fog” or have a reunion story? Do I belong here?
Yes. Curiosity, confusion, certainty, anger, grief—all of it belongs.
What do you mean by “adoption-competent therapy”?
Adoption competent therapists are trained to understand adoption-related challenges and issues from a trauma, attachment, loss, and brain development perspective.
Can I use the Reading Room if I’m not an adoptee?
Yes! Especially if you’re a partner, friend, clinician, researcher, or someone trying to learn without centering yourself.
Do you offer telehealth/multi-state?
Joanne is licensed in Delaware, Florida, Maryland, New York, and Vermont.