Adoption, separation & lived experience
Therapeutic support for anyone affected by adoption, fostering or early separation — working through questions of identity, belonging, grief and connection.
Learn moreSpecialist therapeutic support · Perth, WA
Specialist support for adoption, separation and family disruption.
Experiences of adoption, separation, family disruption, reunification and relational trauma can carry enduring impacts across the lifespan. ARCS provides specialist therapeutic support for individuals, families and professionals navigating these complex experiences.
We work at a pace that feels safe, with care and without judgement.
Our services
Three areas of specialist support
We work alongside individuals, families and the professionals who support them. Each area of our work has its own focus and expertise.
Family therapy
Court-informed support through reunification and family court processes, alongside family therapy to strengthen relationships, communication and connection.
Learn moreProfessional services
Consultation, specialist assessment and referrals for clinicians and teams supporting clients affected by separation and adoption.
Learn moreWhat to expect
Reaching out is the hardest part
There's no pressure and no judgement. Here's how getting started usually looks.
You get in touch
Call, email or send the contact form. Share as much or as little as you like.
We talk it through
A gentle first conversation to understand what you need and answer your questions.
We find a way forward
We agree on a pace and approach that feels right for you — there's no fixed script.
Our approach
Attachment-informed, and led by you
We understand how early relationships and separation shape the way we connect later in life. Our work is grounded in research and lived experience, and always moves at a pace that feels safe.
Our story
Our past, present and future
ARCS was originally established through research conducted by Dr Robin Winkler at The University of Western Australia, grounded in a commitment to understanding the experiences of those affected by adoption and separation.
The service was later guided and developed by Jennifer Newbould, whose work and presence shaped ARCS into a place of thoughtful, relational and specialist support. Her contribution continues to be felt in the values and approach that underpin the service today.
Following her passing, ARCS continues this work with deep respect for what has been built, and an awareness of the responsibility to carry it forward with care and integrity.
Today, ARCS remains a specialist therapeutic service focused on the ongoing impact of separation, adoption and family disruption. The work continues to evolve in response to the needs of those who seek support, while remaining grounded in a relational and attuned approach.
Looking ahead, ARCS is committed to building on this foundation — developing its work, contributing to understanding in this area, and supporting individuals and families with the same care, thoughtfulness and respect that has shaped the service over time.
Need to talk to someone now?
Support outside ARCS hours
If you're in immediate danger or distress, these free services are available 24/7.
Emergency000Police, fire, ambulance
Lifeline13 11 1424-hour crisis support
Beyond Blue1300 22 4636Mental health support
Kids Helpline1800 55 1800For people aged 5–25
Suicide Call Back1300 659 46724-hour counselling
13YARN13 92 76For Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people