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Search investigator or angel ethics

Below you will find a code of conduct that myself and Dr. Susan Branco have created to help guide you when looking for an investigator and recommendations to follow throughout the whole search and reunion process.

Family search ethics and guidelines

Click below to read more about what this looks like

Search and reunion

Here is the link to the blog I wrote about contemplating searching: to search or not

 

Another resource when contemplating about searching for your first or biological family by ICAV click below :) 

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Other things to consider when thinking about searching...

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Many unexpected emotions may arise for all parties involved, including the adoptee, the adoptive family and biological familiy.  As an adoptee myself, finding one’s origin can be healing, unpredictable, and anxiety-inducing, as one does not know what will be learned or found. 

 

There is not a specific timeline for the search, as it is a personal journey, unique to each adoptee.  My own search had various pauses as I needed time to emotionally process the new information before moving forward and connecting with my biological family.  

 

Another area of support is navigating if or when adoptive families members find it difficult/confusing when their family member begins their search for their biological families.  This is a delicate process that can invoke a range of emotions including anger, excitement, fear and insecurities, for both the adoptee and adoptive family member(s).

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Regardless of the final outcome of the search, healing and understanding of this journey can occur if everyone involved is open to the process, clear communication,  and accept whatever it may bring. This takes courage, self awareness, and patience.

Emotional health

When we are born the separation between a mother and child is considered a traumatic loss.  Below you will find some links to topics such as attachment theory, how to identify your primary attachment style and how it can impact your personal relationships at work, with family, or your significant person.

 

There are also links to how to find a therapist.  Keep in mind that therapy is a gift to yourself and a way to help us understand ourselves and begin to heal the unseen wounds that can result from adoption and how they could manifest in our adult lives if not addressed or made conscious.

Stinkfish mural art

*When looking for a therapist, it's important to think about what feels most comfortable to you taking into consideration the gender, age, race, etc. and it's ok to "shop around" or discontinue with one if they don't feel right to you. It can take time to find a good match. 

Grow beyond words directory

Center for Adoption Support and Education (C.A.S.E.) 

Psychology today 

The 5 wounds of the soul: rejection, abandonment, injustice, humiliation and/or betrayal Wounds of the soul | Well Therapy

Attachment theory:
Attached - The Science of Attachment - Anxious and Avoidant Loving 

Attachment Styles: Take the Quiz to Discover Your Attachment Style

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