CRSH starts group for adoptees

  • Are you looking for your biological family and need to talk about it?
  • Are you considering starting a search but are worried about the outcome?
  • Have you found your biological family and need to share your feelings about it?
  • Do you feel you are experiencing some psychological trauma as an adoptee?
  • Are you feeling unwanted or rejected after finding your biological family?
  • Do you want to connect with other adoptees and talk about your situation?

The Center for Relationship Health (CRSH) is starting a therapy group for adoptees who are looking for a safe place to talk with other adoptees about their thoughts, concerns, feelings, struggles and experiences as an adopted individual.

“Countless studies have shown that adoptees statistically are known to be at a higher risk for mental health problems than non-adopted people,” reports Greg Johnson, LMSW, a therapist at CRSH who works with adopted individuals. “Research also suggests that adopted children face higher risks for childhood trauma and attachment issues, which can cause anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD and an increased risk for suicide. That is why our group can be so beneficials for these individuals,” Johnson finds.

“We are providing a safe environment and one that focuses on building strong and healthy relationships with other adoptees. It’s a place to connect and have your feelings validated by others who may be going through similar feelings and experiences,” adds Laura Feeney, LMCSW, therapist at the center, who will work with Johnson on facilitating the adoptee group.

Sessions will cover building trust, self-esteem and a sense of self; working through any traumas or rejection issues; handling loss of identity or identity formation concerns; and dealing with cultural, ethic pride or ambiguous loss.

“We will talk about any issues the group wants to discuss,” Johnson points out.

“Adoption can feel like a very unique and isolating experience that only adoptees can understand,” notes Feeney. “This group will help other adoptees feel less alone, and offer them a great source of encouragement and validation.”

The group will meet in person at CRSH or via zoom. It is open to adults ages 18 and older. To learn more about the group, call CRSH at 248.399.7447.