Adoption Counselling in Bishop's Stortford

Photo of Paula Jane Bantick-Ward, Counsellor, MBACP
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
Photo of Michael Garnham, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Michael Garnham
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
You don't have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Sometimes it's enough to recognise that something just doesn't feel right, even if you can't quite put your finger on why. Maybe you're struggling with anxiety that never seems to switch off, finding yourself stuck in the same patterns or carrying the effects of difficult experiences from the past. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted or simply know that something needs to change. If you've never had therapy before, it's completely understandable to feel unsure about taking that first step.
You don't have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Sometimes it's enough to recognise that something just doesn't feel right, even if you can't quite put your finger on why. Maybe you're struggling with anxiety that never seems to switch off, finding yourself stuck in the same patterns or carrying the effects of difficult experiences from the past. You might be feeling overwhelmed, exhausted or simply know that something needs to change. If you've never had therapy before, it's completely understandable to feel unsure about taking that first step.
01279 594717 View 01279 594717
Photo of Rebecca Cox, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Rebecca Cox
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Are you looking for a safe, creative space to explore what might be troubling you, causing you pain, or blocking you from moving forward in your life? As a creative therapist, I provide a supportive space where you can express and understand yourself and your relationships in new and helpful ways. I hold the present and future as important as our past experiences and offer dynamic, forward-looking, collaborative and creative therapy for individuals wanting more from life. Finding the right therapist is essential for successful therapy. That’s why I start all my work with an initial non-committal meeting.
Are you looking for a safe, creative space to explore what might be troubling you, causing you pain, or blocking you from moving forward in your life? As a creative therapist, I provide a supportive space where you can express and understand yourself and your relationships in new and helpful ways. I hold the present and future as important as our past experiences and offer dynamic, forward-looking, collaborative and creative therapy for individuals wanting more from life. Finding the right therapist is essential for successful therapy. That’s why I start all my work with an initial non-committal meeting.
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Photo of Mark Archer, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Mark Archer
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
I am an experienced BACP Accredited and Registered Integrative Psychotherapist offering counselling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples and adolescents in both short- and long-term psychotherapy. I am able to tailor my approach using a variety of techniques drawn from Relational, Person Centred, CBT, Mindfulness based CBT, Existential Psychotherapy and Transactional Analysis therapies. This enables me to work in a very collaborative way with my clients to ensure that I am continuously using an approach that feels right for them.
I am an experienced BACP Accredited and Registered Integrative Psychotherapist offering counselling and psychotherapy to individuals, couples and adolescents in both short- and long-term psychotherapy. I am able to tailor my approach using a variety of techniques drawn from Relational, Person Centred, CBT, Mindfulness based CBT, Existential Psychotherapy and Transactional Analysis therapies. This enables me to work in a very collaborative way with my clients to ensure that I am continuously using an approach that feels right for them.
07449 508274 View 07449 508274
Photo of Dr Emily Hudson, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Emily Hudson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
As a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist, with further specialism in Perinatal and Parental Mental Health, I work with people who have a range of difficulties including Anxiety, Depression, processing past trauma, OCD, birth trauma, phobia of birth, difficulties with bonding, gender disappointment, adjusting to parenthood, low self-esteem and the sad loss of a pregnancy. I understand that life can feel complicated and tricky, and often involves a mix of emotions. I will work alongside you to develop an intervention plan that fits for you, based upon your needs, your goals and the evidence bases for effective treatment.
As a HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist, with further specialism in Perinatal and Parental Mental Health, I work with people who have a range of difficulties including Anxiety, Depression, processing past trauma, OCD, birth trauma, phobia of birth, difficulties with bonding, gender disappointment, adjusting to parenthood, low self-esteem and the sad loss of a pregnancy. I understand that life can feel complicated and tricky, and often involves a mix of emotions. I will work alongside you to develop an intervention plan that fits for you, based upon your needs, your goals and the evidence bases for effective treatment.
01799 619454 View 01799 619454
Photo of Dr Catriona Amberton, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Catriona Amberton
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am an HCPC and BPS registered psychologist and have 14 years of NHS experience. In addition to my doctorate, I have a Masters in Clinical Forensic Psychology and conduct expert witness work for the courts. I have extensive experience and knowledge across the lifespan but primarily work with children, adolescents, parents and families. I have particular expertise with neurodivergence and regularly carry out assessments and provide support for difficulties associated with Autism and ADHD. I also work part-time for the NHS as the lead psychologist for West Essex Community Paediatrics Autism diagnostic pathway.
I am an HCPC and BPS registered psychologist and have 14 years of NHS experience. In addition to my doctorate, I have a Masters in Clinical Forensic Psychology and conduct expert witness work for the courts. I have extensive experience and knowledge across the lifespan but primarily work with children, adolescents, parents and families. I have particular expertise with neurodivergence and regularly carry out assessments and provide support for difficulties associated with Autism and ADHD. I also work part-time for the NHS as the lead psychologist for West Essex Community Paediatrics Autism diagnostic pathway.
01707 244841 View 01707 244841

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kaya Thompson, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Kaya Thompson
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Online Only
Coming to therapy, whether for the first time or returning again, is a courageous step. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I offer a respectful and collaborative space where experiences can be explored with care, curiosity, and openness, making difficult conversations feel possible. Working systemically means I explore how relationships, family experiences, communication, identity, and wider life contexts shape how we understand ourselves and others.
Coming to therapy, whether for the first time or returning again, is a courageous step. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I offer a respectful and collaborative space where experiences can be explored with care, curiosity, and openness, making difficult conversations feel possible. Working systemically means I explore how relationships, family experiences, communication, identity, and wider life contexts shape how we understand ourselves and others.
020 4634 7288 View 020 4634 7288
Photo of Dr Vanja Rossberg, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Dr Vanja Rossberg
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
London SE1
I am a Psychotherapist with more than 15 years experience of working with individuals, couples and families who have seen their emotional stability and relationships being impacted by life experiences, like physical or mental health struggles, trauma, loss, challenging transitions between life cycle stages, separation, relationship conflict or adverse childhood experiences. I facilitate work that gives the opportunity to develop a better understanding of what is going on for you, a clearer idea of how you would like things to be, exploring and experimenting with ways to achieve this.
I am a Psychotherapist with more than 15 years experience of working with individuals, couples and families who have seen their emotional stability and relationships being impacted by life experiences, like physical or mental health struggles, trauma, loss, challenging transitions between life cycle stages, separation, relationship conflict or adverse childhood experiences. I facilitate work that gives the opportunity to develop a better understanding of what is going on for you, a clearer idea of how you would like things to be, exploring and experimenting with ways to achieve this.
020 3835 6242 View 020 3835 6242
Photo of Hester Alison Ford Moy, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Hester Alison Ford Moy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
London NW6
I will accept individually commissioned ASF ( Adoption Support Funding ) child therapy contracts with Local Authorities where suitable.
Art Psychotherapy is a readily accessible and effective form of therapy. It is suitable for individuals of any age who are experiencing a wide range of emotional and wellbeing challenges. You may be struggling with personal or family relationships, work related stress, mental health, past childhood trauma, loss, bereavement, identity, addiction issues; or be a very concerned parent reaching out for help for your child or teen who's additional SEN's, mental health, behaviour, school/ social difficulties, adverse childhood experiences are requiring a sensitive, creative and nuanced approach to their support and treatment.
I will accept individually commissioned ASF ( Adoption Support Funding ) child therapy contracts with Local Authorities where suitable.
Art Psychotherapy is a readily accessible and effective form of therapy. It is suitable for individuals of any age who are experiencing a wide range of emotional and wellbeing challenges. You may be struggling with personal or family relationships, work related stress, mental health, past childhood trauma, loss, bereavement, identity, addiction issues; or be a very concerned parent reaching out for help for your child or teen who's additional SEN's, mental health, behaviour, school/ social difficulties, adverse childhood experiences are requiring a sensitive, creative and nuanced approach to their support and treatment.
020 4524 3170 View 020 4524 3170
Photo of Louise Lund, Counsellor, MBACP
Louise Lund
Counsellor, MBACP
Do you need someone to listen? Do you feel you’re not heard or seen? Do you feel misunderstood, to blame, angry, sad, anxious, disillusioned? Is family life, work or other relationships getting too much to cope with? Throughout life, we are often left with feelings of low self worth, anger, sadness or may feel powerless. We can become confused about who we are, what we need and where life is taking us. This accumulation over many years blinds us to who we really are and sometimes we need help to find out. I believe I can help you.
Do you need someone to listen? Do you feel you’re not heard or seen? Do you feel misunderstood, to blame, angry, sad, anxious, disillusioned? Is family life, work or other relationships getting too much to cope with? Throughout life, we are often left with feelings of low self worth, anger, sadness or may feel powerless. We can become confused about who we are, what we need and where life is taking us. This accumulation over many years blinds us to who we really are and sometimes we need help to find out. I believe I can help you.
01206 239170 View 01206 239170
Photo of Zeenat Hutchings - East Hampshire Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
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
Photo of Denise Quadrucci, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
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
Photo of Ciara Forsythe, Counsellor, MBACP
Ciara Forsythe
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
London N2
I specialise in adoption work, supporting adoptive families, birth parents, and adoptees.
Hey there, I’m Ciara, a BACP registered integrative counsellor working in a trauma-informed way. I offer a down-to-earth, supportive space where we can make sense of what’s going on without judgement or pressure. The connection between us matters, and I think good therapy comes from feeling safe enough to be yourself and explore things at your own pace. People often come to me when things feel stuck, overwhelming, or confusing, or when they’ve been carrying things on their own for a long time. Together we look at what’s going on in a way that feels practical, grounded, and easier to navigate.
I specialise in adoption work, supporting adoptive families, birth parents, and adoptees.
Hey there, I’m Ciara, a BACP registered integrative counsellor working in a trauma-informed way. I offer a down-to-earth, supportive space where we can make sense of what’s going on without judgement or pressure. The connection between us matters, and I think good therapy comes from feeling safe enough to be yourself and explore things at your own pace. People often come to me when things feel stuck, overwhelming, or confusing, or when they’ve been carrying things on their own for a long time. Together we look at what’s going on in a way that feels practical, grounded, and easier to navigate.
028 9124 4683 View 028 9124 4683
Photo of Amy Catherine Walshe, Counsellor, BACP
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
Photo of Angela Lawn, Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Angela Lawn
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
I am also Barnardo's child-related adoption trained (Ofsted registered).
From my own personal experience, and from client feedback, I know how important it is to seek professional help early. Addressing children’s and young adult’s difficulties as they arise means that solutions can be found before problems get worse.
I am also Barnardo's child-related adoption trained (Ofsted registered).
From my own personal experience, and from client feedback, I know how important it is to seek professional help early. Addressing children’s and young adult’s difficulties as they arise means that solutions can be found before problems get worse.
01767 668992 View 01767 668992
Photo of Sarah Napier, Counsellor
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
Photo of Claire Louise Arnold - The Trauma Recovery Space, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
The Trauma Recovery Space
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, affecting mental health, relationships and everyday wellbeing. But recovery is possible. At The Trauma Recovery Space, Dr Claire Arnold and Dr Emma Morris, provide high-quality, evidence-based therapy for children, young people, couples, families and adults. Our services align with NHS standards of care and are delivered by expert consultant clinical psychologists with over 20 years of experience Healing from pain. Building resilience. Moving forward with strength. We are based in London Colney, St. Albans, but also offer online services. Easily accessible and free car parking.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, affecting mental health, relationships and everyday wellbeing. But recovery is possible. At The Trauma Recovery Space, Dr Claire Arnold and Dr Emma Morris, provide high-quality, evidence-based therapy for children, young people, couples, families and adults. Our services align with NHS standards of care and are delivered by expert consultant clinical psychologists with over 20 years of experience Healing from pain. Building resilience. Moving forward with strength. We are based in London Colney, St. Albans, but also offer online services. Easily accessible and free car parking.
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Photo of Alix Hearn, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Alix Hearn
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
London N3
I have worked in schools, residential children's homes, specialist trauma and adoption teams, CAMHS and private practice
The therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my work. I work relationally, with respect and compassion. I believe in the power of psychotherapy to address underlying issues and symptoms. This work requires time, patience and deep empathy. I also specialise in Ecopsychotherapy - this involves walk and talk therapy outdoors.
I have worked in schools, residential children's homes, specialist trauma and adoption teams, CAMHS and private practice
The therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my work. I work relationally, with respect and compassion. I believe in the power of psychotherapy to address underlying issues and symptoms. This work requires time, patience and deep empathy. I also specialise in Ecopsychotherapy - this involves walk and talk therapy outdoors.
01276 539040 View 01276 539040
Photo of Tracy Harvey, Counsellor, MBACP
Tracy Harvey
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I am registered with the Buckinghamshire Adoption Services for individuals who have been adopted or parents who have adopted, that wish to claim for therapy via the Adoption Services.
As a therapist, I work with clients to help them deal with issues such as depression, anxiety and invasive thoughts. I believe that society is quick to label people and say “whats wrong with you?” whereas, I believe we should be asking “What happened to you?” My clients have included survivors of childhood abuse, neglect, sexual assault and those recovering from traumatic-based experiences that have affected their current quality of life. I offer bereavement counselling to help people navigate their pain and find their own way to make sense of their loss. I recognise that, as each person is unique, so is their grieving process.
I am registered with the Buckinghamshire Adoption Services for individuals who have been adopted or parents who have adopted, that wish to claim for therapy via the Adoption Services.
As a therapist, I work with clients to help them deal with issues such as depression, anxiety and invasive thoughts. I believe that society is quick to label people and say “whats wrong with you?” whereas, I believe we should be asking “What happened to you?” My clients have included survivors of childhood abuse, neglect, sexual assault and those recovering from traumatic-based experiences that have affected their current quality of life. I offer bereavement counselling to help people navigate their pain and find their own way to make sense of their loss. I recognise that, as each person is unique, so is their grieving process.
01296 929266 View 01296 929266
Photo of Sheila Ruth White, Counsellor, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
Sheila Ruth White
Counsellor, MA, HCPC-Drama Therap.
London N11
I work with clients who may be struggling with grief and loss, navigating adoption, or managing the challenges of ADHD and anxiety.
I'm Sheila White, a Creative Arts Psychotherapist who specialises in Dramatherapy, HCPC-registered since 2021 and a BADth member. I bring over 20 years' experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults, including work with Adopt London, autism and ADHD, and bereavement, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and baby loss. I combine talking therapy with creative techniques like storytelling, movement, and roleplay, though talking alone is just as welcome. I offer a warm, confidential space where we work at your pace, in-person in Barnet or online across the UK.
I work with clients who may be struggling with grief and loss, navigating adoption, or managing the challenges of ADHD and anxiety.
I'm Sheila White, a Creative Arts Psychotherapist who specialises in Dramatherapy, HCPC-registered since 2021 and a BADth member. I bring over 20 years' experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults, including work with Adopt London, autism and ADHD, and bereavement, including miscarriage, stillbirth, and baby loss. I combine talking therapy with creative techniques like storytelling, movement, and roleplay, though talking alone is just as welcome. I offer a warm, confidential space where we work at your pace, in-person in Barnet or online across the UK.
020 4572 7362 View 020 4572 7362
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.