by Dr. Susan Branco Ph.D

IAMAdoptee reached out to a group of mental health professionals to help us think about ways being adopted might particularly impact our well-being during this COVID19 pandemic.  Even as restrictions are starting to lift in various regions of the world, the emotional impact lingers in ways we have yet to anticipate. 

Interview with Dr. Chaitra Wirta-Leiker

In this thoughtful Q&A, adoptee therapist Dr. Chaitra Wirta-Leiker explores how the uncertainty, isolation, and disruptions caused by COVID-19 can resurface deep adoption-related wounds, including fears of loss, scarcity, and disconnection. The conversation offers insight into why the pandemic may have been especially triggering for adoptees and provides compassionate perspectives on navigating those emotions with greater awareness and self-understanding.

Interview with Dr. Chaitra Wirta-Leiker

In Part II of this insightful conversation, Dr. Chaitra Wirta-Leiker examines how the COVID-19 pandemic can deepen adoptees’ struggles with belonging, community, attachment, and identity. Through thoughtful discussion and real-life scenarios, she explores how isolation, disrupted relationships, and uncertainty may reactivate earlier experiences of loss while also highlighting opportunities for connection, resilience, and healing.

Interview with Dr. Chaitra Wirta-Leiker

In the final installment of this three-part series, Dr. Chaitra Wirta-Leiker discusses the long-term emotional impact of the pandemic on adoptees, including grief, ambiguity, and the challenges of processing collective trauma. She offers compassionate guidance for recognizing resurfaced wounds, building emotional resilience, and finding meaningful paths toward healing and connection during uncertain times.