Adoption Counselling in Benfleet

Kim Macleod
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Hello, I am Kim, a Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I specialise in helping people who are struggling to cope with chronic conditions such as persistent pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes or life following an accident. It can be difficult to adjust to life with a chronic condition. It is common to feel anxious about the future and low in mood. The desire to return to your previous self or to be different in some way contributes to the struggle. I have worked extensively in the NHS and private practice. My aim is to help you live your best life despite the condition.
Hello, I am Kim, a Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I specialise in helping people who are struggling to cope with chronic conditions such as persistent pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes or life following an accident. It can be difficult to adjust to life with a chronic condition. It is common to feel anxious about the future and low in mood. The desire to return to your previous self or to be different in some way contributes to the struggle. I have worked extensively in the NHS and private practice. My aim is to help you live your best life despite the condition.
01268 439928 View 01268 439928
Lorraine Anne Bygrave
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I'm a qualified EMDR & IFS Therapist, with specialised training in Attachment-Informed Therapy & adoption
My ideal clients are adults carrying the weight of childhood trauma, complex grief, or attachment wounds — often survivors of abuse, adoptees, or those stuck between grief and acceptance after loss. They come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unable to move forward despite years of trying. Using EMDR, IFS-informed approaches, and IADC Therapy, I help process unresolved trauma, release stuck grief, and address root causes rather than just symptoms. For those wanting faster results, I offer intensive therapy — three hours daily over three days. Together, we work towards lasting change, so you can finally move forward.
I'm a qualified EMDR & IFS Therapist, with specialised training in Attachment-Informed Therapy & adoption
My ideal clients are adults carrying the weight of childhood trauma, complex grief, or attachment wounds — often survivors of abuse, adoptees, or those stuck between grief and acceptance after loss. They come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unable to move forward despite years of trying. Using EMDR, IFS-informed approaches, and IADC Therapy, I help process unresolved trauma, release stuck grief, and address root causes rather than just symptoms. For those wanting faster results, I offer intensive therapy — three hours daily over three days. Together, we work towards lasting change, so you can finally move forward.
07723 458132 View 07723 458132
The Water Tower Therapy Centre Specialist Therapy
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Taking the first step to seek support can feel daunting, especially when trauma, grief, or emotional difficulty leaves you feeling stuck or overwhelmed. You don’t have to carry this alone. At The Water Tower Therapy Centre, our experienced therapists work with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and couples issues, and complex grief. We offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space tailored to your needs. When you get in touch, we’ll match you with the therapist best suited to you. Looking after your mental health can improve your relationships, confidence, and sense of purpose. If you’re ready, we can help.
Taking the first step to seek support can feel daunting, especially when trauma, grief, or emotional difficulty leaves you feeling stuck or overwhelmed. You don’t have to carry this alone. At The Water Tower Therapy Centre, our experienced therapists work with trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and couples issues, and complex grief. We offer a compassionate, non-judgemental space tailored to your needs. When you get in touch, we’ll match you with the therapist best suited to you. Looking after your mental health can improve your relationships, confidence, and sense of purpose. If you’re ready, we can help.
07480 534951 View 07480 534951
Kate Emery
Counsellor, MBACP
Hi, I’m a person-centered therapist who believes that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Together, we’ll explore what matters most to you and work at a pace that feels right. I have experience supporting people through a wide range of challenges, including domestic violence, grief and loss, and the unique journeys of neurodiverse children and their families. I know how important it is to feel accepted just as you are, and I aim to create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly.
Hi, I’m a person-centered therapist who believes that you are the expert in your own life. My role is to offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where you can feel truly heard and understood. Together, we’ll explore what matters most to you and work at a pace that feels right. I have experience supporting people through a wide range of challenges, including domestic violence, grief and loss, and the unique journeys of neurodiverse children and their families. I know how important it is to feel accepted just as you are, and I aim to create a space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly.
01268 201783 View 01268 201783

More Therapists Nearby

Jodun Du Puy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
1 Endorsed
London SE16
I specialise in attachment, early trauma, depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, grief, emotional dysregulation, and adoption-related issues and neurodivergence.
I combine Art Psychotherapy (no creativity needed), Internal Family Systems therapy, and talking therapy to help you process trauma, regulate emotions, and build self understanding. Art Psychotherapy offers a way to externalise thoughts and feelings, while IFS helps explore your inner system, release burdens, and reconnect with your calm, confident self.
I specialise in attachment, early trauma, depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, grief, emotional dysregulation, and adoption-related issues and neurodivergence.
I combine Art Psychotherapy (no creativity needed), Internal Family Systems therapy, and talking therapy to help you process trauma, regulate emotions, and build self understanding. Art Psychotherapy offers a way to externalise thoughts and feelings, while IFS helps explore your inner system, release burdens, and reconnect with your calm, confident self.
020 3947 4018 View 020 3947 4018
Hello I am Paula and my aim is to make professional counselling accessible, affordable and convenient - so anyone who struggles with life's challenges can get help. Depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelmed are words we all hear on a daily basis when generally chatting to family, friends or work colleagues . Counselling can help us cope with those over consuming feelings. Sadly we cannot avoid trauma happening but seeking help during the trauma or even months, years later may reduce risk to further illnesses that have been linked to psychological trauma. Are you in an abusive relationship or having issues as a couple?
Hello I am Paula and my aim is to make professional counselling accessible, affordable and convenient - so anyone who struggles with life's challenges can get help. Depression, anxiety, stress, overwhelmed are words we all hear on a daily basis when generally chatting to family, friends or work colleagues . Counselling can help us cope with those over consuming feelings. Sadly we cannot avoid trauma happening but seeking help during the trauma or even months, years later may reduce risk to further illnesses that have been linked to psychological trauma. Are you in an abusive relationship or having issues as a couple?
07480 534624 View 07480 534624
Garry Michael Brennan
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I am an experienced counsellor who has particular experience around trauma and attachment issues due to my long experience in working in the world of adoption as both a social worker and therapist
I specialise in the area of adoption but I cover a range of issues such as loss, bereavement, relationship problems, anxiety, stress, depression, domestic violence, sexuality and identity issues and sexual abuse
I am an experienced counsellor who has particular experience around trauma and attachment issues due to my long experience in working in the world of adoption as both a social worker and therapist
I specialise in the area of adoption but I cover a range of issues such as loss, bereavement, relationship problems, anxiety, stress, depression, domestic violence, sexuality and identity issues and sexual abuse
07723 562533 View 07723 562533
Paul Gomes
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
3 Endorsed
London SE1
You may be feeling stuck, anxious, or disconnected — unsure of what’s next but aware something needs to change. I offer a calm, collaborative space to explore what’s happening for you, at a pace that feels right. Together we can make sense of patterns, rebuild trust in yourself, and find new ways of relating to life. My work integrates behavioural, somatic and relational approaches, alongside EMDR and experiential therapy, to support healing, self-understanding and lasting change.
You may be feeling stuck, anxious, or disconnected — unsure of what’s next but aware something needs to change. I offer a calm, collaborative space to explore what’s happening for you, at a pace that feels right. Together we can make sense of patterns, rebuild trust in yourself, and find new ways of relating to life. My work integrates behavioural, somatic and relational approaches, alongside EMDR and experiential therapy, to support healing, self-understanding and lasting change.
020 3667 9998 View 020 3667 9998
Holly Dawson
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Holly and I am a therapist and mental health nurse working with children and teens across London, specialising in childhood trauma and neurodivergence. I have 8 years of experience working with young people and their families in NHS, school, and home settings, on a wide range of emotional and behavioural challenges. I offer neurodevelopmental and mental health assessments, as well as play-based and talking therapies, for young people of all ages. I have particular experience working with adopted children, children in care, and children who have experienced loss, parental separation, illness, abuse, or other hardship.
Hi, I'm Holly and I am a therapist and mental health nurse working with children and teens across London, specialising in childhood trauma and neurodivergence. I have 8 years of experience working with young people and their families in NHS, school, and home settings, on a wide range of emotional and behavioural challenges. I offer neurodevelopmental and mental health assessments, as well as play-based and talking therapies, for young people of all ages. I have particular experience working with adopted children, children in care, and children who have experienced loss, parental separation, illness, abuse, or other hardship.
020 4634 5565 View 020 4634 5565
Sarah Napier
Counsellor
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help individuals overcome adoption, trauma, and rejection issues, by offering a safe, empathetic space to heal, grow, and find hope.
Do you ever feel that you are not good enough? Do you often question why you are even here? Do you struggle with self-esteem and self-worth? I help clients who have been adopted and struggle with feelings of rejection and abandonment, often without understanding why they have all these negative emotions.
I help individuals overcome adoption, trauma, and rejection issues, by offering a safe, empathetic space to heal, grow, and find hope.
Do you ever feel that you are not good enough? Do you often question why you are even here? Do you struggle with self-esteem and self-worth? I help clients who have been adopted and struggle with feelings of rejection and abandonment, often without understanding why they have all these negative emotions.
020 4538 1980 View 020 4538 1980
East Hampshire Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I understand that life can present numerous challenges, and I am here to support you through difficult times involving anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, ADHD, family issues, bereavement, stress, PTSD, addiction, and abuse. These experiences can be incredibly exhausting and overwhelming, often leading to feelings of dehumanisation. It is natural to ask yourself questions like: Why is this happening to me? What can I do to help myself? Where can I find the support I need? You are not alone, and there is hope for healing and growth.
I understand that life can present numerous challenges, and I am here to support you through difficult times involving anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, ADHD, family issues, bereavement, stress, PTSD, addiction, and abuse. These experiences can be incredibly exhausting and overwhelming, often leading to feelings of dehumanisation. It is natural to ask yourself questions like: Why is this happening to me? What can I do to help myself? Where can I find the support I need? You are not alone, and there is hope for healing and growth.
01428 778687 View 01428 778687
Amy Catherine Walshe
Counsellor, BACP
London N4
Hi, I'm Amy. Coming to counselling and opening up to a complete stranger about things you may have never discussed before can be hugely daunting! I aim to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible while getting you to where you want to be. I work with people with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, self harm, early life trauma, sexual trauma and for some a wish to talk about a feeling but without necessarily knowing what it is but something simply doesn't quite feel right. The idea of opening up to a complete stranger about things you may have kept inside
Hi, I'm Amy. Coming to counselling and opening up to a complete stranger about things you may have never discussed before can be hugely daunting! I aim to make the process as easy and comfortable as possible while getting you to where you want to be. I work with people with a range of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, self harm, early life trauma, sexual trauma and for some a wish to talk about a feeling but without necessarily knowing what it is but something simply doesn't quite feel right. The idea of opening up to a complete stranger about things you may have kept inside
020 3871 7988 View 020 3871 7988
Olivia Djouadi
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Online Only
Your life can start to go in a new direction from the resources gained in therapy. I have been working over a decade as a UKCP psychotherapist in helping people to begin again or improve where they are in life. My experience assists those with dissociation, trauma, stress, adoption and situations that have a negative affect on life. I can help you take the steps to a new you. It can feel lonely sitting with a feelings that remain present. I have lived in 8 countries so know moving is not simple and can leave difficult feelings. I am also trained to give the SCID-D assessment for a psychological diagnosis in dissociative disorders.
Your life can start to go in a new direction from the resources gained in therapy. I have been working over a decade as a UKCP psychotherapist in helping people to begin again or improve where they are in life. My experience assists those with dissociation, trauma, stress, adoption and situations that have a negative affect on life. I can help you take the steps to a new you. It can feel lonely sitting with a feelings that remain present. I have lived in 8 countries so know moving is not simple and can leave difficult feelings. I am also trained to give the SCID-D assessment for a psychological diagnosis in dissociative disorders.
020 3984 9310 View 020 3984 9310
Dhakshini Patel
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Serves Area
I specialise in autism, trauma, adoption, and emotional regulation, using creative, attachment-based and sensory approaches.
With over a decade of experience as a UKCP-registered Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist, many families come to me because their child or young adult is anxious, overwhelmed, autistic, traumatised, or struggling with big emotions. You may feel exhausted or unsure how to help them feel calmer and more connected. You want someone who understands your child’s world, supports you as a parent, and can also help older teens/young adults who feel stuck or lost. Many families I meet feel isolated or unseen, and they’re looking for my support to help the whole family feel more connected and move forward.
I specialise in autism, trauma, adoption, and emotional regulation, using creative, attachment-based and sensory approaches.
With over a decade of experience as a UKCP-registered Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist, many families come to me because their child or young adult is anxious, overwhelmed, autistic, traumatised, or struggling with big emotions. You may feel exhausted or unsure how to help them feel calmer and more connected. You want someone who understands your child’s world, supports you as a parent, and can also help older teens/young adults who feel stuck or lost. Many families I meet feel isolated or unseen, and they’re looking for my support to help the whole family feel more connected and move forward.
020 4634 5543 View 020 4634 5543
Yvonne Drummond-Williams
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I have been a practising psychotherapist for 23 years. During this time I have undertaken to become a Creative Therapist. A Clinical Supervisor, CBT Therapist. I am also a Therapist for Barnardos. Clinical Supervisor for several Agency's. I Supervise trained and trainee counsellors. When seeing client's, who are experiencing difficult situations I seek up to date courses that will assist me to develop skills in which can enable you to make your changes. I have worked with children, teenagers, ​and adults. Issues do vary. Depression, Anxiety, Self Harm, Low Self Esteem. Suicidal thoughts. Bereavement. are just a few.
I have been a practising psychotherapist for 23 years. During this time I have undertaken to become a Creative Therapist. A Clinical Supervisor, CBT Therapist. I am also a Therapist for Barnardos. Clinical Supervisor for several Agency's. I Supervise trained and trainee counsellors. When seeing client's, who are experiencing difficult situations I seek up to date courses that will assist me to develop skills in which can enable you to make your changes. I have worked with children, teenagers, ​and adults. Issues do vary. Depression, Anxiety, Self Harm, Low Self Esteem. Suicidal thoughts. Bereavement. are just a few.
01277 284482 View 01277 284482
Rhoda Scantlebury
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Serves Area
I offer NVR and adoption support for the local authority.
Website: rhodascantleburycounselling.co.uk Counselling gives you your own time and space to consider what is going on, who you are and who you want to be.​ The possibility of time and space might feel important because you're currently experiencing something where your own resources no longer feel sufficient to cope. Perhaps you see that you're responding to situations with more anxiety, anger or distress than feels entirely manageable, or it may be that you're feeling very little and have a sense of being out of touch with yourself or others. I'm able to support you in several ways:
I offer NVR and adoption support for the local authority.
Website: rhodascantleburycounselling.co.uk Counselling gives you your own time and space to consider what is going on, who you are and who you want to be.​ The possibility of time and space might feel important because you're currently experiencing something where your own resources no longer feel sufficient to cope. Perhaps you see that you're responding to situations with more anxiety, anger or distress than feels entirely manageable, or it may be that you're feeling very little and have a sense of being out of touch with yourself or others. I'm able to support you in several ways:
01892 351126 View 01892 351126
Denise Quadrucci
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Online Only
I have worked within fostering and adoption, Couple and family Counselling, Bereavement and Youth Counselling.
Some of the problems I work with are around grief/loss, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, betrayal, family and relationship issues, identity, stress, secondary trauma, loneliness, psychosomatic related illnesses, racial issues, addiction, women’s issues, childhood issues, coping skills, life transitions and many more.
I have worked within fostering and adoption, Couple and family Counselling, Bereavement and Youth Counselling.
Some of the problems I work with are around grief/loss, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, betrayal, family and relationship issues, identity, stress, secondary trauma, loneliness, psychosomatic related illnesses, racial issues, addiction, women’s issues, childhood issues, coping skills, life transitions and many more.
07446 289260 View 07446 289260
Dr Natalia Fagbemi
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Bromley BR1
I am committed to supporting those experiencing mental health difficulties, and have experience working with a diverse range of clients including children, adults and older adults. I am passionate about creating a safe and non-judgemental space to help my clients to understand their difficulties and how they can make changes to improve their mental health and wellbeing. As a HCPC registered Chartered Clinical Psychologist with a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, I have worked across various settings including community, inpatient and specialist services in the NHS.
I am committed to supporting those experiencing mental health difficulties, and have experience working with a diverse range of clients including children, adults and older adults. I am passionate about creating a safe and non-judgemental space to help my clients to understand their difficulties and how they can make changes to improve their mental health and wellbeing. As a HCPC registered Chartered Clinical Psychologist with a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, I have worked across various settings including community, inpatient and specialist services in the NHS.
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Katherine Anne Miller
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am an emotional focussed couple and family systemic psychotherapist, body dramatherapist, and clinical supervisor. I have 40 years' experience in mental health settings and 30 years in private practice. I am a warm, empathic therapist and highly value my relationship with my clients. I go on exploratory journeys with clients, with them leading and together we make meaning and sense as we navigate through difficulties and worries and at times having fun along the way. At some point the therapy stops at an agreed moment by the client when they feel they have reached a more comfortable place in their life and in their relationships.
I am an emotional focussed couple and family systemic psychotherapist, body dramatherapist, and clinical supervisor. I have 40 years' experience in mental health settings and 30 years in private practice. I am a warm, empathic therapist and highly value my relationship with my clients. I go on exploratory journeys with clients, with them leading and together we make meaning and sense as we navigate through difficulties and worries and at times having fun along the way. At some point the therapy stops at an agreed moment by the client when they feel they have reached a more comfortable place in their life and in their relationships.
020 3823 6187 View 020 3823 6187
Christian Murphy
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Serves Area
Do you have a sense of feeling confused, stuck or disappointed? Perhaps you want to talk about a disturbing loss or new circumstances. You might be pursuing an unfamiliar role or new goal. Some people come to see me suffering from a lack of meaning or enjoyment in their lives. My particular interest is in people who are facing a change in their identity – perhaps a loss – or transition to a new stage in life. I also work with people who don’t yet know what the matter is – or feel like everything has gone wrong.
Do you have a sense of feeling confused, stuck or disappointed? Perhaps you want to talk about a disturbing loss or new circumstances. You might be pursuing an unfamiliar role or new goal. Some people come to see me suffering from a lack of meaning or enjoyment in their lives. My particular interest is in people who are facing a change in their identity – perhaps a loss – or transition to a new stage in life. I also work with people who don’t yet know what the matter is – or feel like everything has gone wrong.
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See more therapy options for Benfleet

Adoption Counsellors
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.