Adoption Counselling in Sheffield

Photo of Sarah Cassidy, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Sarah Cassidy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
I have many years of experience working with adoption and looked after children, supporting both children and their families.
Building a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is at the core of our work together. My commitment is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I approach our sessions with empathy, respect, and understanding of your unique journey. I am an experienced trauma and attachment psychotherapist with many years experience working with adults, children, young people and families who have had attachment difficulties and disruptions. I am also trained in DDP and Theraplay.
I have many years of experience working with adoption and looked after children, supporting both children and their families.
Building a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is at the core of our work together. My commitment is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I approach our sessions with empathy, respect, and understanding of your unique journey. I am an experienced trauma and attachment psychotherapist with many years experience working with adults, children, young people and families who have had attachment difficulties and disruptions. I am also trained in DDP and Theraplay.
0114 697 2849 View 0114 697 2849
Photo of Cheryl Morrissey, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Cheryl Morrissey
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Life can be tough at times, can make us feel undervalued, overwhelmed and maybe quite a lonely place to be. Therapy can help us understand ourselves a little better, value our uniqueness that makes us who we are. I strive to support that self awakening, to focus on rediscovery rather than changing who you are. I am passionate about ensuring neuro-divergent people can access therapy and adapt my ways of working to meet their needs. I ensure I complete regular CPD and training in Trauma focused CBT, Theraplay Level 1, DDP Level 1&2, therapeutic parenting and training via PODS specializing in DID. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
Life can be tough at times, can make us feel undervalued, overwhelmed and maybe quite a lonely place to be. Therapy can help us understand ourselves a little better, value our uniqueness that makes us who we are. I strive to support that self awakening, to focus on rediscovery rather than changing who you are. I am passionate about ensuring neuro-divergent people can access therapy and adapt my ways of working to meet their needs. I ensure I complete regular CPD and training in Trauma focused CBT, Theraplay Level 1, DDP Level 1&2, therapeutic parenting and training via PODS specializing in DID. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
0115 647 1880 View 0115 647 1880
Photo of Melissa Lomas, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Melissa Lomas
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
I am an approved Adult Adoption Support Counsellor.
A variety of tools are available depending on the needs and interests of the client. These range from journal keeping, to visualisations, breathing practices, colour and image work and role-play to name just a few. I have over 25 years experience of working therapeutically, incorporating my Counselling training with my extensive knowledge of Yoga and Art.
I am an approved Adult Adoption Support Counsellor.
A variety of tools are available depending on the needs and interests of the client. These range from journal keeping, to visualisations, breathing practices, colour and image work and role-play to name just a few. I have over 25 years experience of working therapeutically, incorporating my Counselling training with my extensive knowledge of Yoga and Art.
0114 303 2993 View 0114 303 2993
Photo of Lorraine Frances Ferguson - Creative Counselling , Counsellor, MBACP
Creative Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Do you struggle with issues such as anger, anxiety, depression, self esteem, self harm, or relationship issues? Are you feeling stuck in your life and find it difficult to take a step forward? Have you experienced trauma such as bullying, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or bereavement, and would like to see how this may be impacting on your life and relationships today? Maybe you tried talking therapies before but seem to be getting nowhere. Creative counselling has the potential to heal you on a much deeper level, leading to long lasting change. Feelings can be accessed, and healed through the power of metaphor and symbols.
Do you struggle with issues such as anger, anxiety, depression, self esteem, self harm, or relationship issues? Are you feeling stuck in your life and find it difficult to take a step forward? Have you experienced trauma such as bullying, sexual abuse, domestic violence, or bereavement, and would like to see how this may be impacting on your life and relationships today? Maybe you tried talking therapies before but seem to be getting nowhere. Creative counselling has the potential to heal you on a much deeper level, leading to long lasting change. Feelings can be accessed, and healed through the power of metaphor and symbols.
0114 697 7607 View 0114 697 7607
Photo of Eva Horton, Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
Eva Horton
Psychotherapist, MSc, MNCPS Acc.
1 Endorsed
Hi, I'm Eva. Every person’s journey is unique. Therapy can be a meaningful part of your journey to explore what's happening for you and help you move towards a more fulfilling and grounded life. I work with people who may be struggling emotionally, feeling overwhelmed, or wanting to better understand themselves and their story.
Hi, I'm Eva. Every person’s journey is unique. Therapy can be a meaningful part of your journey to explore what's happening for you and help you move towards a more fulfilling and grounded life. I work with people who may be struggling emotionally, feeling overwhelmed, or wanting to better understand themselves and their story.
0114 697 5199 View 0114 697 5199
Photo of Ian Baker, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Ian Baker
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
My name's Ian ,working in the field of sexual addiction and compulsivity and psychosexual therapy for 15+years. My work also includes ;relational work, presenting on topics surrounding porn use, depression, boredom etc as well as porn induced sexual difficulties. I also supervise therapists in these specialist fields of work. There is never a one size fits all approach, always helping each individual/couple with how to overcome & recover from what is being presented. I love this job and the niches I work within and take professional pride to stay updated with advances in research and training to ensure i am able to help
My name's Ian ,working in the field of sexual addiction and compulsivity and psychosexual therapy for 15+years. My work also includes ;relational work, presenting on topics surrounding porn use, depression, boredom etc as well as porn induced sexual difficulties. I also supervise therapists in these specialist fields of work. There is never a one size fits all approach, always helping each individual/couple with how to overcome & recover from what is being presented. I love this job and the niches I work within and take professional pride to stay updated with advances in research and training to ensure i am able to help
0114 697 6288 View 0114 697 6288
Photo of Hannah Rebekah Pamplin, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Hannah Rebekah Pamplin
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Hello everyone - I'm Hannah and I am an art psychotherapist. Within therapy I aim to create a safe and healing environment to support clients move from surviving to truly living. Sometimes finding the right words to communicate can be really hard so we will use art as an aid for communication. You don't have to be 'good' at art to do art therapy - if you enjoy being creative in any way, shape or foam - You might find art therapy is the right fit for you. I would love the honour of working with you to support your healing journey. I look forward to hearing from you
Hello everyone - I'm Hannah and I am an art psychotherapist. Within therapy I aim to create a safe and healing environment to support clients move from surviving to truly living. Sometimes finding the right words to communicate can be really hard so we will use art as an aid for communication. You don't have to be 'good' at art to do art therapy - if you enjoy being creative in any way, shape or foam - You might find art therapy is the right fit for you. I would love the honour of working with you to support your healing journey. I look forward to hearing from you
0114 697 1701 View 0114 697 1701
Photo of Lilian Clesham, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Lilian Clesham
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Welcome! . Life can be hard and challenging sometimes. The uncertain times we live give arise to anxiety, fear and often confusion. It might help to talk to explore your inner landscape and be supported in your understanding and choices that might be open to you. It takes courage sometimes to live life- change always take great courage. Psychotherapy is a collaborative journey where I help you into a different, perhaps more satisfying relationship with yourself. You might want to set goals, heal past hurts, find new ways of dealing the past and prepare for a different future.
Welcome! . Life can be hard and challenging sometimes. The uncertain times we live give arise to anxiety, fear and often confusion. It might help to talk to explore your inner landscape and be supported in your understanding and choices that might be open to you. It takes courage sometimes to live life- change always take great courage. Psychotherapy is a collaborative journey where I help you into a different, perhaps more satisfying relationship with yourself. You might want to set goals, heal past hurts, find new ways of dealing the past and prepare for a different future.
0114 553 1758 View 0114 553 1758
Photo of Kate Green, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Kate Green
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
I am a counsellor, psychotherapist and specialist in addictions and trauma of 38 years experience working within the public sector and now privately. I can assist with a broad-spectrum of issues. I provide one to one counselling, and couple therapy. I work with adults of all ages and from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, sexual orientation, and physical and mental ability. It is my belief evidenced from my work with a great many unique and wonderful persons that all of us have the innate ability to heal ourselves. I see my role as merely an assistant in this self-healing process.
I am a counsellor, psychotherapist and specialist in addictions and trauma of 38 years experience working within the public sector and now privately. I can assist with a broad-spectrum of issues. I provide one to one counselling, and couple therapy. I work with adults of all ages and from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, sexual orientation, and physical and mental ability. It is my belief evidenced from my work with a great many unique and wonderful persons that all of us have the innate ability to heal ourselves. I see my role as merely an assistant in this self-healing process.
0114 478 2604 View 0114 478 2604
Photo of Sharmi Gowri Kriszyk - Stepping Stones Psychology - Trauma Specialist, Psychologist, FMBPsS
You might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in patterns that don’t make sense, even after trying therapy before. Perhaps you're carrying pain from past experiences or struggling to feel connected in the present. I offer a warm, supportive space to explore what’s beneath the surface. With specialist training in trauma, attachment, EMDR, Somatic Psychotherapy and Therapeutic Reparenting, I can help you move towards deeper healing. I hold doctoral-level training and full BPS membership, ensuring safe, ethical and professional therapy service.
You might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or caught in patterns that don’t make sense, even after trying therapy before. Perhaps you're carrying pain from past experiences or struggling to feel connected in the present. I offer a warm, supportive space to explore what’s beneath the surface. With specialist training in trauma, attachment, EMDR, Somatic Psychotherapy and Therapeutic Reparenting, I can help you move towards deeper healing. I hold doctoral-level training and full BPS membership, ensuring safe, ethical and professional therapy service.
0114 478 2307 View 0114 478 2307
Photo of Michael Drabble, Counsellor, MBACP
Michael Drabble
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Are you struggling with a pattern of behaviour or a relationship that you know is harmful, but you can’t seem to move on, or change things for the better? Through working with you in a safe, accepting way I can help you understand how your past experiences have been negatively affecting you in the present, so you gain a fresh perspective on your problems. As an integrative therapist, I select from a number of approaches, including Transactional Analysis, to construct a bespoke toolkit of models and techniques; using this, we can work together to positively change your behaviour, your state of mind and your relationships.
Are you struggling with a pattern of behaviour or a relationship that you know is harmful, but you can’t seem to move on, or change things for the better? Through working with you in a safe, accepting way I can help you understand how your past experiences have been negatively affecting you in the present, so you gain a fresh perspective on your problems. As an integrative therapist, I select from a number of approaches, including Transactional Analysis, to construct a bespoke toolkit of models and techniques; using this, we can work together to positively change your behaviour, your state of mind and your relationships.
0114 553 9196 View 0114 553 9196
Photo of Karen ledger - Karen Ledger Ltd at KSL Consulting, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Karen Ledger Ltd at KSL Consulting
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
I am an experienced, therapist, executive coach and supervisor, having started my practice in 1995. I have been on the executive of the BACP and am a published author. My practice is informed by you about what you need and how you would like to work and I will provide the therapeutic relationship for you to get to where you want and need to be. We can work indoors (in Broomhill) or outdoors (at Ringinglow) in the countryside depending on what you prefer.
I am an experienced, therapist, executive coach and supervisor, having started my practice in 1995. I have been on the executive of the BACP and am a published author. My practice is informed by you about what you need and how you would like to work and I will provide the therapeutic relationship for you to get to where you want and need to be. We can work indoors (in Broomhill) or outdoors (at Ringinglow) in the countryside depending on what you prefer.
0114 697 3955 View 0114 697 3955
Photo of Laura Kennedy - Hey Laura, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Hey Laura
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
2 Endorsed
Hey! I’m Laura, a HCPC registered art therapist based in Sheffield. Are you or a loved one struggling with feelings of overwhelm, feeling stressed out and unable to cope? Maybe you’re finding it hard to sleep at night or noticing that your patience is shorter than you’d like, you’re finding it hard to enjoy the things you would normally or something just doesn’t feel right?
Hey! I’m Laura, a HCPC registered art therapist based in Sheffield. Are you or a loved one struggling with feelings of overwhelm, feeling stressed out and unable to cope? Maybe you’re finding it hard to sleep at night or noticing that your patience is shorter than you’d like, you’re finding it hard to enjoy the things you would normally or something just doesn’t feel right?
0114 697 3836 View 0114 697 3836
Photo of Alex Johnson, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Alex Johnson
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
I am a Neurodiverse Art Therapist currently supporting adults and young people over the age of 18. I support those navigating significant life transitions, including changes in identity, relationships, career, or experiences connected to hormonal health and cycles. I have experience supporting those who have been in the care system or adopted, neurodivergent individuals, and individuals who are gender questioning, fluid or dysphoric. I support those experiencing burn out, depression/low mood, anxiety, education or work-related stress, low self-esteem, impacts of abuse & trauma, relationship difficulties, grief and loss.
I am a Neurodiverse Art Therapist currently supporting adults and young people over the age of 18. I support those navigating significant life transitions, including changes in identity, relationships, career, or experiences connected to hormonal health and cycles. I have experience supporting those who have been in the care system or adopted, neurodivergent individuals, and individuals who are gender questioning, fluid or dysphoric. I support those experiencing burn out, depression/low mood, anxiety, education or work-related stress, low self-esteem, impacts of abuse & trauma, relationship difficulties, grief and loss.
0114 697 7785 View 0114 697 7785
Photo of Kat Salisbury, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Kat Salisbury
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Hello, I'm Kat. Living with the impact of trauma, anxiety, stress, or difficult life experiences can feel exhausting and isolating. Our experiences are held not only in our thoughts, but also in our emotions, relationships, imagination, and bodies. Through a creative and relational approach, I offer a compassionate therapeutic space where we can explore these different dimensions of your experience, enabling greater awareness, healing and lasting change.
Hello, I'm Kat. Living with the impact of trauma, anxiety, stress, or difficult life experiences can feel exhausting and isolating. Our experiences are held not only in our thoughts, but also in our emotions, relationships, imagination, and bodies. Through a creative and relational approach, I offer a compassionate therapeutic space where we can explore these different dimensions of your experience, enabling greater awareness, healing and lasting change.
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Photo of Carolyne Mulonga - Mukabo Road Safety, Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Mukabo Road Safety
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
"Having walked a certain path, as a Christian, my Faith in God and leaning on Him has been the greatest pillar I ever held on to experiencing my own post-traumatic growth. However, I value individual differences, respect, diversity, culture, integrity, honesty and ability to find your own path, grow, connect and build an enduring relationship. I firmly believe individuals can be empowered to find their own solutions. I am aware I might not have all the answers or solutions, but I could give one or two suggestions. I am happy to sit with people who find themselves in a dilemma, stuck in difficult and uncomfortable situations".
"Having walked a certain path, as a Christian, my Faith in God and leaning on Him has been the greatest pillar I ever held on to experiencing my own post-traumatic growth. However, I value individual differences, respect, diversity, culture, integrity, honesty and ability to find your own path, grow, connect and build an enduring relationship. I firmly believe individuals can be empowered to find their own solutions. I am aware I might not have all the answers or solutions, but I could give one or two suggestions. I am happy to sit with people who find themselves in a dilemma, stuck in difficult and uncomfortable situations".
01890 230058 View 01890 230058
Photo of Leah Marie Booker - Leah Booker - Free to Be You, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Leah Booker - Free to Be You
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
At Free to Be You, we empower neurodivergent individuals to thrive as their authentic selves. Founded by Leah Booker, a neurodivergent leader with lived experience of dyslexia and auditory processing disorder. We offer person-centred support tailored to your needs. We understand the emotional toll of navigating a neurotypical world, from seeking a diagnosis to coping with exclusion and overwhelm. Whether you're an individual or an organisation, we’re here to walk alongside you, with insight and empathy.
At Free to Be You, we empower neurodivergent individuals to thrive as their authentic selves. Founded by Leah Booker, a neurodivergent leader with lived experience of dyslexia and auditory processing disorder. We offer person-centred support tailored to your needs. We understand the emotional toll of navigating a neurotypical world, from seeking a diagnosis to coping with exclusion and overwhelm. Whether you're an individual or an organisation, we’re here to walk alongside you, with insight and empathy.
0114 697 4246 View 0114 697 4246
Photo of Lucy Wheen, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Lucy Wheen
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Hello, I am a Counselling Psychologist and provide specialist support for children, young people, adults, and families who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health, emotional wellbeing, or relationships. I support people with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, low self-esteem, attachment and relationship difficulties, and the impact of adverse life experiences. I also have a specialist interest in neurodiversity and provide autism assessments and post-diagnostic support that is affirming, collaborative, and tailored to each individual and their family.
Hello, I am a Counselling Psychologist and provide specialist support for children, young people, adults, and families who are experiencing difficulties with their mental health, emotional wellbeing, or relationships. I support people with a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, low self-esteem, attachment and relationship difficulties, and the impact of adverse life experiences. I also have a specialist interest in neurodiversity and provide autism assessments and post-diagnostic support that is affirming, collaborative, and tailored to each individual and their family.
0114 697 5158 View 0114 697 5158
Photo of Matthew Dunn, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Matthew Dunn
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
People come to therapy for many reasons. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, stressed, struggling in a relationship, facing a crisis, or simply looking for a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings. I believe many emotional difficulties develop within relationships, and healing happens through relationships too. My approach is relational, collaborative and engaged. Rather than acting as a quiet observer, I will be actively involved as a co-researcher in the shared project of "what is wrong, and how do we resolve it?" I won’t tell you what to do, but I will support you in finding your own path towards change.
People come to therapy for many reasons. You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, stressed, struggling in a relationship, facing a crisis, or simply looking for a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings. I believe many emotional difficulties develop within relationships, and healing happens through relationships too. My approach is relational, collaborative and engaged. Rather than acting as a quiet observer, I will be actively involved as a co-researcher in the shared project of "what is wrong, and how do we resolve it?" I won’t tell you what to do, but I will support you in finding your own path towards change.
0114 303 1141 View 0114 303 1141
Photo of Louise Knowles, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Louise Knowles
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I offer a supportive space to help you navigate work-based challenges and relationship difficulties. I specialize in supporting individuals in mental health, psychological fields, and education, including academics, students, and professionals. My approach integrates person-centered and Gestalt psychotherapy, alongside executive coaching training, tailored to your needs. With experience in the NHS, third sector, and higher education, I bring a deep understanding of professional and personal challenges. Together, we’ll create positive change and increase your insight.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, I offer a supportive space to help you navigate work-based challenges and relationship difficulties. I specialize in supporting individuals in mental health, psychological fields, and education, including academics, students, and professionals. My approach integrates person-centered and Gestalt psychotherapy, alongside executive coaching training, tailored to your needs. With experience in the NHS, third sector, and higher education, I bring a deep understanding of professional and personal challenges. Together, we’ll create positive change and increase your insight.
01724 514338 View 01724 514338

See more therapy options for Sheffield

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.