Adoption Therapists in Ottawa, ON
Our team is experienced in the areas of attachment, trauma, dissociation, parenting, adoption, divorce, justice involved youth, concerning sexual behaviour issues, FASD, and involvement with the child welfare, family court, and/or criminal justice systems.
Our clinicians have advanced training in a variety of evidence-based approaches for children, youth, adults, and families, including psycho-biologically and somatic based approaches, such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, SMART, Brainspotting, Theraplay, & Emotionally Focused Family Therapy.
Our team is experienced in the areas of attachment, trauma, dissociation, parenting, adoption, divorce, justice involved youth, concerning sexual behaviour issues, FASD, and involvement with the child welfare, family court, and/or criminal justice systems.
Our clinicians have advanced training in a variety of evidence-based approaches for children, youth, adults, and families, including psycho-biologically and somatic based approaches, such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, SMART, Brainspotting, Theraplay, & Emotionally Focused Family Therapy.
Hi I am Erin, and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), and have completed a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I have been working in the field of mental health and social services for 6 years, mainly in the areas of child welfare, family violence, gender-based violence, and system navigation. Prior to completing my masters degree, I pursued a degree in Fine Arts. This has allowed me to incorporate expressive arts techniques within session, for clients of all ages who are interested, or curious about this approach.
Hi I am Erin, and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), and have completed a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. I have been working in the field of mental health and social services for 6 years, mainly in the areas of child welfare, family violence, gender-based violence, and system navigation. Prior to completing my masters degree, I pursued a degree in Fine Arts. This has allowed me to incorporate expressive arts techniques within session, for clients of all ages who are interested, or curious about this approach.
I offer trauma-informed, creative therapy for children, youth, families, and caregivers—with a special focus on adoption and identity.
Currently accepting new clients with no wait! I work with children, teens, young adults, and caregivers who are doing the hard work of growing, healing, and making sense of their stories. Many of my clients have experienced trauma, loss, or disconnection. Together, we explore the role of connection, creativity, and nervous system regulation to support meaningful change in how you see yourself, relate to others, and move through the world.
I offer trauma-informed, creative therapy for children, youth, families, and caregivers—with a special focus on adoption and identity.
Currently accepting new clients with no wait! I work with children, teens, young adults, and caregivers who are doing the hard work of growing, healing, and making sense of their stories. Many of my clients have experienced trauma, loss, or disconnection. Together, we explore the role of connection, creativity, and nervous system regulation to support meaningful change in how you see yourself, relate to others, and move through the world.
I know loss and I know the power of overcoming it. I have studied loss, worked with people to thrive beyond it, and lived through it myself. My trauma informed practice is pointed toward supporting people through their feelings of loss to acceptance and fulfillment. I specifically focus on supporting adoptive parents and their families, bereavement and end of life issues.
I know loss and I know the power of overcoming it. I have studied loss, worked with people to thrive beyond it, and lived through it myself. My trauma informed practice is pointed toward supporting people through their feelings of loss to acceptance and fulfillment. I specifically focus on supporting adoptive parents and their families, bereavement and end of life issues.
Families created through adoption, fostering and donor-assisted reproduction and blended families have unique histories and experiences which differ from families created through birth alone.
No matter the issue you are struggling with, if you have a history of significant loss it plays a part. Together we will work to integrate and heal the impacts of the past to achieve holistic, balanced and fulfilling change - allowing you to move forward with strength and confidence and to build nurturing relationships to carry you forwards.
Families created through adoption, fostering and donor-assisted reproduction and blended families have unique histories and experiences which differ from families created through birth alone.
No matter the issue you are struggling with, if you have a history of significant loss it plays a part. Together we will work to integrate and heal the impacts of the past to achieve holistic, balanced and fulfilling change - allowing you to move forward with strength and confidence and to build nurturing relationships to carry you forwards.
Does this sound familiar? You suspect or know you are ADHD/Autistic or both; are unsure about therapy. You may be in recovery, exploring gender, ENM, and want to work with someone who gets it. I specialize in mixed neurotype couples, SOGIE divergent individuals and ND kids (8+). I'm AuDHD, NB trans, adopted, in a loving LTR, a parent, and 100 % committed to trauma-informed affirming care. I also offer psychometric (Autism and psychoeducational) assessments, and diagnosis in partnership with NPs and a clinical psychologist.
Does this sound familiar? You suspect or know you are ADHD/Autistic or both; are unsure about therapy. You may be in recovery, exploring gender, ENM, and want to work with someone who gets it. I specialize in mixed neurotype couples, SOGIE divergent individuals and ND kids (8+). I'm AuDHD, NB trans, adopted, in a loving LTR, a parent, and 100 % committed to trauma-informed affirming care. I also offer psychometric (Autism and psychoeducational) assessments, and diagnosis in partnership with NPs and a clinical psychologist.
My 13 years' experience using inner child work, researching, and supporting fellow adopted persons and mothers of adoption loss has given me a unique insight into the struggles of adoption, the Primal Wound, reunion, reunion preparation, and the impact of early childhood traumas.
With a foundation rooted in Relational Gestalt psychotherapy and the support of Brainspotting, my role as an enlightened witness supports you as you feel your feelings, strive to make sense of how you approach the world around you, and proceed on your healing journey. I work from an embodied approach to support you as you explore your difficulties, past and/or present, that you may struggle to verbalize. My compassionate side, with a little humour thrown in for good measure, makes difficult feelings a little easier to navigate. We can use conversation, movement, art, music, or role play during our sessions—whatever interests you.
My 13 years' experience using inner child work, researching, and supporting fellow adopted persons and mothers of adoption loss has given me a unique insight into the struggles of adoption, the Primal Wound, reunion, reunion preparation, and the impact of early childhood traumas.
With a foundation rooted in Relational Gestalt psychotherapy and the support of Brainspotting, my role as an enlightened witness supports you as you feel your feelings, strive to make sense of how you approach the world around you, and proceed on your healing journey. I work from an embodied approach to support you as you explore your difficulties, past and/or present, that you may struggle to verbalize. My compassionate side, with a little humour thrown in for good measure, makes difficult feelings a little easier to navigate. We can use conversation, movement, art, music, or role play during our sessions—whatever interests you.
My work has been with families and individuals navigating life's transitions in family life, reproductive health, adoption, aging and loss.
I work with adult individuals, couples and family groups. I offer compassionate support for grief, loss, life transitions, and parenting challenges as an experienced therapist with both personal and professional expertise from which to draw.
I will help you make sense of your experiences, find meaning, and build the resilience to move forward with hope.
My work has been with families and individuals navigating life's transitions in family life, reproductive health, adoption, aging and loss.
I work with adult individuals, couples and family groups. I offer compassionate support for grief, loss, life transitions, and parenting challenges as an experienced therapist with both personal and professional expertise from which to draw.
I will help you make sense of your experiences, find meaning, and build the resilience to move forward with hope.
I also have extensive experience with developmental disorders, adoption and attachment concerns, and brain-based conditions such as traumatic brain injury (TBI), prenatal substance exposure, seizures, strokes, and chronic illness.
Through neuropsychological assessment and intervention, I support parents, caregivers, educators, and healthcare teams in understanding how brain-based challenges impact learning, mood, and behaviour. My goal is to guide practical, compassionate, and individualized recommendations that address a child’s unique needs at home, at school, and in the community.
I also have extensive experience with developmental disorders, adoption and attachment concerns, and brain-based conditions such as traumatic brain injury (TBI), prenatal substance exposure, seizures, strokes, and chronic illness.
Through neuropsychological assessment and intervention, I support parents, caregivers, educators, and healthcare teams in understanding how brain-based challenges impact learning, mood, and behaviour. My goal is to guide practical, compassionate, and individualized recommendations that address a child’s unique needs at home, at school, and in the community.
I specialize in Reproductive Health Psychology, which means all aspects of our reproductive lives which may impact our emotional and physical health, our sense of identity, and psychological well-being. Examples of this focus include: infertility stress and coping with treatments, pregnancy loss, grief, difficult decision-making, dealing with a diagnosis, navigating complex family-building, mandatory counselling assessment sessions required preceding infertility treatments. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative and in every situation we focus on building hope, courage and resilience in the face of challenges and loss.
I specialize in Reproductive Health Psychology, which means all aspects of our reproductive lives which may impact our emotional and physical health, our sense of identity, and psychological well-being. Examples of this focus include: infertility stress and coping with treatments, pregnancy loss, grief, difficult decision-making, dealing with a diagnosis, navigating complex family-building, mandatory counselling assessment sessions required preceding infertility treatments. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative and in every situation we focus on building hope, courage and resilience in the face of challenges and loss.
You may notice feeling emotionally overwhelmed, anxious, or on edge in relationships or in life. Traumatic or distressing experiences can make it harder to feel joy, connection, and confidence in ourselves. These experiences are more common than we often realize and can affect children, parents, and families alike. You are not alone, and healing is possible. I am accepting EMDR clients at a reduced rate from February 23 to May 30, 2026. EMDR is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain and body process distressing experiences so they no longer feel as overwhelming or intrusive.
You may notice feeling emotionally overwhelmed, anxious, or on edge in relationships or in life. Traumatic or distressing experiences can make it harder to feel joy, connection, and confidence in ourselves. These experiences are more common than we often realize and can affect children, parents, and families alike. You are not alone, and healing is possible. I am accepting EMDR clients at a reduced rate from February 23 to May 30, 2026. EMDR is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain and body process distressing experiences so they no longer feel as overwhelming or intrusive.
My treatments aim not only to alleviate or eliminate psychological symptoms, but also to help patients understand themselves. Working with an interpersonal psychoanalytic approach will lead you through the exploration of both conscious and unconscious experiences, resulting in improved functioning and greater confidence in interpersonal situations. I work with a wide range of patients of all ages, providing both individual, couple, and group therapy. My treatments are intended to encourage a change while having the utmost respect for each patient's individual story and pace.
My treatments aim not only to alleviate or eliminate psychological symptoms, but also to help patients understand themselves. Working with an interpersonal psychoanalytic approach will lead you through the exploration of both conscious and unconscious experiences, resulting in improved functioning and greater confidence in interpersonal situations. I work with a wide range of patients of all ages, providing both individual, couple, and group therapy. My treatments are intended to encourage a change while having the utmost respect for each patient's individual story and pace.
I am currently accepting new youth and caregiver therapy clients. I help children, teens, and families manage emotional regulation, behaviour challenges, anxiety, and school-related concerns. I work with young people experiencing attention difficulties (including ADHD), neurodevelopmental differences, behavioural challenges at home or school, and family stress. I also support parents and caregivers in developing practical strategies to help their child feel more regulated, confident, and successful in daily life and relationships.
I am currently accepting new youth and caregiver therapy clients. I help children, teens, and families manage emotional regulation, behaviour challenges, anxiety, and school-related concerns. I work with young people experiencing attention difficulties (including ADHD), neurodevelopmental differences, behavioural challenges at home or school, and family stress. I also support parents and caregivers in developing practical strategies to help their child feel more regulated, confident, and successful in daily life and relationships.
The Centre for Couples and Relationships
Registered Social Worker, RP, CCC, MSW, RSW
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2B
At The Centre for Couples and Relationships, we believe that intimate relationships are central to human connection, attachment, and well-being. As we go through life stressors and challenges, so do our relationships. If your relationship is in need of improved communication, deeper connection, or repair, we can help. We work with couples and partners struggling with issues such as communication, disconnection, intimacy, infidelity, and family dynamics. We provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your relationship dynamics and to repair previous patterns of conflict or hurt.
At The Centre for Couples and Relationships, we believe that intimate relationships are central to human connection, attachment, and well-being. As we go through life stressors and challenges, so do our relationships. If your relationship is in need of improved communication, deeper connection, or repair, we can help. We work with couples and partners struggling with issues such as communication, disconnection, intimacy, infidelity, and family dynamics. We provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your relationship dynamics and to repair previous patterns of conflict or hurt.
Immediate openings for "Brief Solution Focused Therapy" (4-12 sessions) March 2026 in Ottawa, ON. If you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or self esteem issues, call me. I focus on competencies and not deficits, on creating solutions instead of focussing on problems. Please reach out for a 15 minute consultation and we can see if we're a good fit!
Have you ever noticed that sometimes we spend so much time analysing a problem in our lives that we understand it completely but have no idea where to start to find the solution? Together, we can uncover what’s holding you back and build a path that feels right for you.
Immediate openings for "Brief Solution Focused Therapy" (4-12 sessions) March 2026 in Ottawa, ON. If you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression or self esteem issues, call me. I focus on competencies and not deficits, on creating solutions instead of focussing on problems. Please reach out for a 15 minute consultation and we can see if we're a good fit!
Have you ever noticed that sometimes we spend so much time analysing a problem in our lives that we understand it completely but have no idea where to start to find the solution? Together, we can uncover what’s holding you back and build a path that feels right for you.
I am a Psychotherapist, with 28 years of experience as a counsellor, educator, clinical supervisor and consultant. I am passionate about guiding others toward reaching their full potential and creating life-balance. I use a client-centered approach, incorporating elements of several types of therapy: Cognitive-Behavioural, Mindfulness-Based and Psychodynamic, along with other modalities, in order to create a treatment plan that addresses your particular needs, while working with you to achieve your goals and become your favourite version of you. My approach is guided by my heart as much as it is informed by my skills and knowledge.
I am a Psychotherapist, with 28 years of experience as a counsellor, educator, clinical supervisor and consultant. I am passionate about guiding others toward reaching their full potential and creating life-balance. I use a client-centered approach, incorporating elements of several types of therapy: Cognitive-Behavioural, Mindfulness-Based and Psychodynamic, along with other modalities, in order to create a treatment plan that addresses your particular needs, while working with you to achieve your goals and become your favourite version of you. My approach is guided by my heart as much as it is informed by my skills and knowledge.
Growing up, I was always drawn to understanding people’s emotions and the invisible stories that shaped their lives. Coming from a culture where silence often surrounded pain, I learned early on how unspoken feelings can weigh heavily on our sense of self and relationships. My journey toward becoming a psychotherapist began with that realization a desire to transform emotional pain into understanding and connection, both for myself and for those around me.
Growing up, I was always drawn to understanding people’s emotions and the invisible stories that shaped their lives. Coming from a culture where silence often surrounded pain, I learned early on how unspoken feelings can weigh heavily on our sense of self and relationships. My journey toward becoming a psychotherapist began with that realization a desire to transform emotional pain into understanding and connection, both for myself and for those around me.
My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in feminist and structural analyses that contextualize individual "problems" in our social environments. My therapeutic orientation is comprised of an eclectic mix of theoretical models that guide my work, including emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and somatic therapy. While I don't practice exclusively from one perspective, I believe that it is my role to be constantly assessing whether or not the work we are doing appears to be helping you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I offer psychological services under the supervision of Dr. Leigh Karos, C. Psych.
My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in feminist and structural analyses that contextualize individual "problems" in our social environments. My therapeutic orientation is comprised of an eclectic mix of theoretical models that guide my work, including emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and somatic therapy. While I don't practice exclusively from one perspective, I believe that it is my role to be constantly assessing whether or not the work we are doing appears to be helping you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I offer psychological services under the supervision of Dr. Leigh Karos, C. Psych.
Maz counselling and Psychotherapy Center
Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO, RP, CCPA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS & COVERED BY MOST INSURANCES** I am also a CLINICAL SUPERVISOR, and I accept new supervisees. Choosing the right therapist is an important decision in order for you to make real progress in counselling. I offers a safe, non-judgmental and supportive counselling environment that focuses on addressing your needs and achieving your objectives. I strongly believe that the best way to succeed in therapy is for us to work together as a team. Once trust is established, we will be able to work together to address your areas of concerns and find solutions that will help you realize your goals and dreams.
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS & COVERED BY MOST INSURANCES** I am also a CLINICAL SUPERVISOR, and I accept new supervisees. Choosing the right therapist is an important decision in order for you to make real progress in counselling. I offers a safe, non-judgmental and supportive counselling environment that focuses on addressing your needs and achieving your objectives. I strongly believe that the best way to succeed in therapy is for us to work together as a team. Once trust is established, we will be able to work together to address your areas of concerns and find solutions that will help you realize your goals and dreams.
Hi, I’m Daniela. I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with several years experience working across community, school-based, & private mental health settings. I specialize in working with children & teens in managing challenging emotions & life experiences, as well as with their caregivers. I also enjoy working with individuals who are looking understand & connect more deeply with themselves. I believe that my role as a therapist is to provide a secure, compassionate relationship in which my clients are able to share all parts of themselves without judgement. I'm so grateful to be able to work with people in this way.
Hi, I’m Daniela. I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with several years experience working across community, school-based, & private mental health settings. I specialize in working with children & teens in managing challenging emotions & life experiences, as well as with their caregivers. I also enjoy working with individuals who are looking understand & connect more deeply with themselves. I believe that my role as a therapist is to provide a secure, compassionate relationship in which my clients are able to share all parts of themselves without judgement. I'm so grateful to be able to work with people in this way.
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Does my adopted child need therapy?
Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioural or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.
When should adoptive parents seek therapy?
Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioural, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.
Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?
Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.
What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?
A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.