As a part of this series on DNA testing and international adoptees, IAMAdoptee had the wonderful opportunity to connect with Dr. Susan Branco, LPC.  In all of our interviews, the adoption identity is privileged. And yet, IAMAdoptee believes it is essential to hear from those of us who have worked professionally within our community for decades.  Dr. Branco was asked to help us consider the fuller broader context of DNA testing in the world of search and reunion, as well as consider how this resource impacts our sense of well-being and wholeness.

Katie Mantele, adopted from China, has been one of our more vocal advocates in ensuring accurate information and caution to her fellow adoptees considering DNA testing and birth search.  She has agreed to share some of her thoughts and lend resources, as well as give us a fuller narrative on how DNA testing is impacting the Chinese adoptee community.

Continuing our conversation on DNA testing as a resource to connect with birth relatives, IAMAdoptee recently spoke with Katherine Kim and Jayme Hansen, co-founder and CFO, respectively, of 325KAMRA.

The mission of this organization is to DNA-test birth searching families in Korea and collect medical and family history data from them; to distribute DNA kits to Koreans and Korean adoptees worldwide, and to help families reunite when possible.

In this inspiring interview, Korean adoptee, therapist, advocate, and marathon runner Robyn Joy Park shares her journey of identity, search, reunion, and resilience. Drawing from her experiences as a transracial adoptee and mental health professional, Robyn reflects on the impact of DNA testing, the complexities of birth-family searches, adoption-related loss and healing, and the power of community. Her story highlights both the challenges and strengths that emerge from the adoptee experience, while championing hope, connection, and the importance of supporting family reunification efforts.