Adopted Individuals
We know the journey of adoption doesn’t end when the papers are signed. Being adopted impacts your life in new ways all the time, whether you’re four or 42. We recognize that during some periods of your life, you will process your story more intensely than others, and that you will probably continue to discern what it means for you throughout your whole life. We hope that through our resources you will find the trusted guidance and support you need to embrace your story and live confident in your worth, strength, and identity.
General Resources for Adopted Individuals
"Having faced the challenge of searching for a trusted resource to help me through the search and reunion process, I know firsthand how important it is for adopted individuals to have confidence in the information they receive. NCFA is the leading adoption advocacy organization and has the expert resources to help adopted individuals make the most informed decisions. In fact, my belief in the mission of NCFA to serve the entire adoption community is so strong that I asked to join the board and have been a member for over six years!"
- Mike T.
Search and Reunion
When searching for information about an adoption that was previously confidential, NCFA encourages that it be done in a sensitive way for the protection of all parties involved. The use of registries, state vital records offices, placing adoption agencies, and appropriate confidential intermediary support can help this process to go smoothly for everyone involved.
The laws on accessing birth records and health and background information varies with the state laws in the U.S. and can vary with the country's laws in international adoptions, the time an adoption took place, and the decisions made by birth parents and adoptive parents at the time of the adoption.
First, begin with the agency or attorney that facilitated the original placement. Most adoption professionals today provide support and reunion services.
If those services are not available, some have found success utilizing other search options such as adopted.com which is the largest adoption reunion registry website.*
*NCFA does not endorse any particular registry or service. This information is provided for reference only.
Find an Agency or Attorney
Search NCFA's Member Directory to find an adoption professional to assist you with a range of services including homestudies, placement services, expectant parent counseling, birthparent support, legal services, search and reunion guidance, post adoption support, and much more.
Pursuing International Adoption? Agency requirements are different than domestic adoptions. Before searching the Directory, learn more by clicking here.
