I have a very similar experience with having been adopted by my stepfather. I definitely had many of the issues you described. I never felt like I belonged. Even today, I don’t really fit into the adoptee community either.
While in rehab for addiction, my counselor dismissed the possibility of Trauma from being adopted. I don't believe her one bit.It's deep and unlike a traumatic event that happens at a young age, where there is no point prior to it to reference/go back to in effort to start healing.
I'm sorry to hear that you felt dismissed. Adoption can indeed be a source of deep emotional pain and trauma. It's important to have a therapist who validates your experiences. Consider finding someone who specializes in adoption-related trauma for better support in your healing journey.
