Adoption, separation & lived experience
You may be here because something does not feel fully settled.
You might be experiencing
- uncertainty about identity or belonging
- a sense of disconnection — from yourself, others, or your history
- emotional responses that are difficult to understand or explain
- complex or conflicting feelings about adoption, family or separation
For many people, these experiences are linked to earlier disruptions in family relationships and experiences of separation.
Free for those affected by forced adoption
Counselling for people affected by past forced adoption practices is funded by the Western Australian Government, at no cost to you.
Check your eligibilityUnderstanding these experiences
Experiences of separation, particularly in early life, can continue to shape how a person understands themselves, relates to others and responds emotionally over time.
These responses are not random. They are often adaptive ways of coping with — and making sense of — significant experiences.
Our approach
ARCS is a specialist therapeutic service focused on adoption and separation. We work with clients to:
- understand the significance of their experiences
- explore how these experiences continue to affect them
- develop a clearer and more manageable sense of self and relationships
This work is approached with care, structure and attention to complexity.
What makes ARCS different
This is a distinct area of therapeutic work, and our therapists have specific training and experience in:
- adoption across the lifespan
- separation and attachment disruption
- identity and relational development
Alongside this, we hold a clear understanding of the depth and weight of these experiences. This informs how we listen, pace the work and respond to what is shared. Clients often report feeling understood, even when their experiences are difficult to express fully.
Adoption records & searching for family
For some people, this work includes questions about origins, records and family — whether to search, what can be found, and what any contact might mean. There is no right time to begin; there is only the time that feels right for you.
People search for many reasons. For some it is about understanding their history and medical background; for others it is the hope of tracing birth family and making contact. Both are valid — and it is just as valid not to search at all.
It is common to feel uncertain or conflicted: fears of rejection, of feeling disloyal, or of being unsure of your place in new relationships. We make space for all of it, and we see good preparation as the foundation for the best possible future relationships. We work at your pace, respecting your situation and wishes, and mindful of the best outcome for everyone involved.
ARCS can help you to:
- explore your options in a safe, confidential space
- apply for copies of original documents and certificates
- apply for access to adoption records across Australia and the UK
- make sense of the information you receive
- consider whether, and to whom, you might reach out
- prepare for first contact and reunion
Reunion & outreach support
Reunion is often described as an emotional rollercoaster. Building — or rebuilding — a relationship with family can bring up strong feelings and memories, and it rarely follows a straight line.
Our counsellors are experienced adoption specialists and trained mediators. Making first contact through a mediator can feel less intrusive for everyone involved: it allows time to process each step, helps clarify expectations, and prepares you for how the other person may respond.
We provide intermediary and outreach services, and ongoing support as new relationships develop and existing ones change.
The people you'll work with
This work depends on trust. Our therapeutic team brings clinical expertise, lived experience and a steady, relational approach to every person we see.
Resources
Helpful links & reading
A few trusted services and resources that may be useful alongside our work with you.
Where else to turn
- Department of Communities (Child Protection & Family Support)Statutory child protection and family support in WA.
- Lifeline WA24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention.
- Family Relationships OnlineInformation and services for families navigating separation.
Downloads
- ARCS information booklet (PDF)An introduction to who we are and how we can help.
When you're ready, we're here to listen.
There's no pressure and no judgement. Reach out whenever the time feels right.
Talk to us