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The Adopted child 

arcs counsellors are specialised in working with children and families who have experienced attachment and developmental trauma through being separated from family. arcs is trauma informed and works from an attachment focused framework. Our work is integrative and experiential. The children we see often have sensory processing issues and their trauma memories are implicit and somatic.

Research has established that early trauma effects brain development, emotional regulation, ability to form secure relationship and academic performance.

Research identifies these core issues for the child / adult in adoption and separation from family:

  • Identity – Who am I? 
  • Divided Loyalty
  • Intimacy in Relationship
  • Attachment Difficulties
  • Loss / Abandonment 
  • Guilt and Shame
  • Fear and Anxiety
  • Rejection
  • Grief
  • Anger / Rage / Powerlessness

 

"What is the best place to start when talking to a child about his life and about adoption? The best place is the beginning. A child's life did not begin at the time of adoption. The youngster has a unique history all of his own that he is entitled to know." (Family Ties)

Our professional counsellors are there to help you and your child explore these issues in a sensitive and trauma informed manner.