Adopted persons search to obtain medical histories, updated medical information, to meet their birthparent (s) or to understand why they were placed for adoption, and for an array of other reasons. Reasons that birthparents search include a hope to resolve grief and loss, to meet the child whom they have never forgotten, to share medical information; there are other reasons depending on the placement situation.

CHSFS recognizes that a search is a process and that it requires commitment and planning. Before deciding whether to search, carefully consider the level of contact you are seeking.

• What kind of outcome am I hoping for?
• How much and what kind of contact am I seeking?
• Are you looking for a new relationship?
• If so, what type of relationship do you want?
• What are boundaries that you would like to set in a new relationship?
• How you will deal with feelings you have if the search is not successful?

More information for adopted adults who are thinking about searching.

More information for birthparents who are a thinking about searching.

The Post Adoption Services Program at CHSFS offers search and outreach services through which an individual social worker acts as a professional intermediary in conducting the search and initial outreach on your behalf. Staff is available for preparatory interviews prior to making your search decision, contact facilitiation for as long as you need it after the search, and support throughout the entire process. Counseling is also available through our agency's Individual and Family Counseling Center.

In the state of Minnesota, you must be 19 years of age or older to initiate a search. An adoptive parent can initiate a search on behalf of their adopted children under the age of 19. A birthmother or birthfather may also request a search.

CHSFS has both domestic and international search and intermediary services for clients whose adopted was handled through Children's Home Society & Family Services.

Neutrality May have few emotions as the focus is on the mechanics of the search.

Anger/frustration Information may not be as readily available or not avilable at all. Critical in working through the stages of the search. It is important, however, that one not get stuck in this stage to the degree that it prevents the processing of other feelings.

Obsession A normal, yet intense persistence to find out information.

Withdrawal May feel overwhelmed/disappointed/anxious, stepping back for days, months or years from the search process.

Acceptance May feel like 'Whatever happens is okay.'

The above information was taken from Search: A Handbook for Adoptees and Birthparents by Askins.

Search and Outreach

For Adults