Adoption Counselling in Shipley

Photo of Sam Keeley, Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Sam Keeley
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Shipley BD18
Theraplay is one form of treatment I use that can help children who may be passive or depressed, children who are overactive, aggressive or anxious, children on the autism spectrum, and those worried about attaching because of adoption, losses, or trauma.
I offer a wide range of evidence-based psychological assessments and interventions for children, adults and families. I can support parents who are worried about their children's difficulties, I can help adults and children who may struggle with emotional regulation, aggression, self-injury, depression, anxiety, harmful sexual behaviour, trauma, and attachment difficulties.
Theraplay is one form of treatment I use that can help children who may be passive or depressed, children who are overactive, aggressive or anxious, children on the autism spectrum, and those worried about attaching because of adoption, losses, or trauma.
I offer a wide range of evidence-based psychological assessments and interventions for children, adults and families. I can support parents who are worried about their children's difficulties, I can help adults and children who may struggle with emotional regulation, aggression, self-injury, depression, anxiety, harmful sexual behaviour, trauma, and attachment difficulties.
01274 041573 View 01274 041573
Photo of Brian Padden, Counsellor, MA, BACP
Brian Padden
Counsellor, MA, BACP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I'm a counsellor with years of experience working with children, teenagers and young people as well as adults. I use a range of different counselling styles to help you with your issues in a way that works for you. I work in a non-judgemental way to help you untangle and unlock your issues. Often emotions and behaviours are caused by unknown and unmet needs. I work in a supportive person-centred way to help you to find whatever it is that makes you angry, worried, stressed, lacking in confidence and any other unwanted feeling. With support you will be able to change these negative feelings and find control over your emotions.
I'm a counsellor with years of experience working with children, teenagers and young people as well as adults. I use a range of different counselling styles to help you with your issues in a way that works for you. I work in a non-judgemental way to help you untangle and unlock your issues. Often emotions and behaviours are caused by unknown and unmet needs. I work in a supportive person-centred way to help you to find whatever it is that makes you angry, worried, stressed, lacking in confidence and any other unwanted feeling. With support you will be able to change these negative feelings and find control over your emotions.
01535 286045 View 01535 286045
Photo of Cat Brown, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Cat Brown
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Serves Area
When it’s not always possible to chat to a friend or loved one about personal issues counselling can be really helpful. Using a warm and down to earth style my sessions will use techniques to help discover the underlying symptoms, using a non direct approach. This will allow us to explore any issues you have, develop ways to overcome them, and move forward positively at a pace that feels right for you. As a fully qualified therapist, I offer help if you suffer emotional from problems with low self esteem, relationships, work related stress, abuse, child related issues, abandonment, drug abuse and addiction, amongst many others.
When it’s not always possible to chat to a friend or loved one about personal issues counselling can be really helpful. Using a warm and down to earth style my sessions will use techniques to help discover the underlying symptoms, using a non direct approach. This will allow us to explore any issues you have, develop ways to overcome them, and move forward positively at a pace that feels right for you. As a fully qualified therapist, I offer help if you suffer emotional from problems with low self esteem, relationships, work related stress, abuse, child related issues, abandonment, drug abuse and addiction, amongst many others.
0113 487 2776 View 0113 487 2776
Photo of Kayleigh Fletcher, Counsellor, BACP
Kayleigh Fletcher
Counsellor, BACP
Serves Area
I support people from all walks of life who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, trauma, or low self-esteem. Many seek a safe, non-judgemental space to talk, explore emotions, and find healthier ways forward. While my practice is open to everyone, I have a specialist focus on men’s mental health, offering a space where men can speak freely about pressures, identity, or past experiences. Together, we work towards greater clarity, resilience, and confidence in life.
I support people from all walks of life who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, trauma, or low self-esteem. Many seek a safe, non-judgemental space to talk, explore emotions, and find healthier ways forward. While my practice is open to everyone, I have a specialist focus on men’s mental health, offering a space where men can speak freely about pressures, identity, or past experiences. Together, we work towards greater clarity, resilience, and confidence in life.
01535 286995 View 01535 286995

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lynn Earnshaw, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Lynn Earnshaw
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Leeds LS18
You don’t need to explain adoption from scratch - I’ll meet you where you are, with empathy and care.
Are you an adult adoptee who’s always felt a little out of place? Maybe you’ve coped on the outside while quietly questioning your identity, carrying a fear of abandonment, or feeling like something essential is missing. These are deeply human and often hidden experiences for many adoptees. You don’t have to go through them alone. As an adoptee therapist, I work with adults who want to gently explore their story and reconnect with a stronger sense of self, in a way that feels safe and steady.
You don’t need to explain adoption from scratch - I’ll meet you where you are, with empathy and care.
Are you an adult adoptee who’s always felt a little out of place? Maybe you’ve coped on the outside while quietly questioning your identity, carrying a fear of abandonment, or feeling like something essential is missing. These are deeply human and often hidden experiences for many adoptees. You don’t have to go through them alone. As an adoptee therapist, I work with adults who want to gently explore their story and reconnect with a stronger sense of self, in a way that feels safe and steady.
0113 519 9719 View 0113 519 9719
Photo of Andrew Mark Smith, Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Andrew Mark Smith
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Serves Area
My ideal client is someone who has lived with developmental trauma and long-standing emotional patterns that leave them feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck. They may function well externally but carry a deep sense of instability or loneliness inside. They want to understand themselves, break repetitive relational cycles, and feel real, grounded, and connected. They’re seeking depth, stability, and meaning because survival mode is no longer enough — they’re ready for genuine, lasting change.
My ideal client is someone who has lived with developmental trauma and long-standing emotional patterns that leave them feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck. They may function well externally but carry a deep sense of instability or loneliness inside. They want to understand themselves, break repetitive relational cycles, and feel real, grounded, and connected. They’re seeking depth, stability, and meaning because survival mode is no longer enough — they’re ready for genuine, lasting change.
01422 557764 View 01422 557764
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 Zoë Stephens, Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
Zoë Stephens
Psychotherapist, PNCPS Acc.
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges, you’re not alone. Past experiences—especially those tied to attachment—can shape how we feel, think, and connect with others. You may be searching for ways to heal from trauma, manage symptoms of complex PTSD, or navigate the difficulties of personality or eating disorders. More than anything, you want to feel safe, understood, and empowered to build a more fulfilling life.
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship challenges, you’re not alone. Past experiences—especially those tied to attachment—can shape how we feel, think, and connect with others. You may be searching for ways to heal from trauma, manage symptoms of complex PTSD, or navigate the difficulties of personality or eating disorders. More than anything, you want to feel safe, understood, and empowered to build a more fulfilling life.
01453 707137 View 01453 707137
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 Adam Watling, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Adam Watling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
York YO31
Finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when you're unsure of what you need. I believe that the key to successful therapy lies in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to be genuine and warm and build a trusting and meaningful therapeutic relationship with my clients. I am a Polyvagal informed therapist - when working with trauma, anxiety or depression, we can identify how your nervous system is responding. We can work to process and heal through a combination of therapeutic interventions, mindfulness and recognition of your physiological and biological responses.
Finding the right therapist can be challenging, especially when you're unsure of what you need. I believe that the key to successful therapy lies in the therapeutic relationship. I strive to be genuine and warm and build a trusting and meaningful therapeutic relationship with my clients. I am a Polyvagal informed therapist - when working with trauma, anxiety or depression, we can identify how your nervous system is responding. We can work to process and heal through a combination of therapeutic interventions, mindfulness and recognition of your physiological and biological responses.
01889 227323 View 01889 227323
Photo of Elizabeth Sumner, Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Elizabeth Sumner
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
1 Endorsed
My name is Liz and I am an experienced, integrative counsellor, supervisor and lecturer. I am very personable and use humour and warmth with all my clients. I will never promise to solve my clients problems but I do promise to work in a respectful and ethical way, helping clients move through what is often the most difficult time in their life. This may be a solution focussed approach or a more person centred one, working delicately with the client's feelings.
My name is Liz and I am an experienced, integrative counsellor, supervisor and lecturer. I am very personable and use humour and warmth with all my clients. I will never promise to solve my clients problems but I do promise to work in a respectful and ethical way, helping clients move through what is often the most difficult time in their life. This may be a solution focussed approach or a more person centred one, working delicately with the client's feelings.
01484 627754 View 01484 627754
Photo of Diane Kirkby - Aspire Play Therapy (Huddersfield/Wakefield), Counsellor, MA, PTUK
I am an approved Adoption & Special Guardianship Provider, having over 25 years experience of working therapeutically with children/young people, parents & carers.
Hi, I'm Diane (Accredited Play Therapist) and am passionate about supporting children through Play Therapy. Play Therapy can help support a range of emotional, behavioral and social challenges by providing a safe space to express feelings and work through difficult experiences. If you would like to discuss your child's individual needs please contact me either by telephone or by email. I provide a free 15 minute telephone meeting in which we can discuss presenting difficulties and whether Play Therapy would be appropriate for your child. I have an amazing playroom and a relaxing waiting room for parents/carers.
I am an approved Adoption & Special Guardianship Provider, having over 25 years experience of working therapeutically with children/young people, parents & carers.
Hi, I'm Diane (Accredited Play Therapist) and am passionate about supporting children through Play Therapy. Play Therapy can help support a range of emotional, behavioral and social challenges by providing a safe space to express feelings and work through difficult experiences. If you would like to discuss your child's individual needs please contact me either by telephone or by email. I provide a free 15 minute telephone meeting in which we can discuss presenting difficulties and whether Play Therapy would be appropriate for your child. I have an amazing playroom and a relaxing waiting room for parents/carers.
01484 627882 View 01484 627882
Photo of Will Jones - Creative4u, Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Creative4u
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Hi, my name is Will. I am an Art Psychotherapist practicing in the Leeds and Wakefield district. My passion is to help both young people and adults work through hardships, challenges and emotional barriers through making art and getting stuck into creativity. Creativity can be anything and Art therapy can help you make what ever comes to mind and can support you in telling your story. My job is to work alongside you, helping you with big and often difficult feelings. Our emotional world can be exhausting, overwhelming and anxiety provoking and art making can capture this in different ways, helping your confidence and self esteem.
Hi, my name is Will. I am an Art Psychotherapist practicing in the Leeds and Wakefield district. My passion is to help both young people and adults work through hardships, challenges and emotional barriers through making art and getting stuck into creativity. Creativity can be anything and Art therapy can help you make what ever comes to mind and can support you in telling your story. My job is to work alongside you, helping you with big and often difficult feelings. Our emotional world can be exhausting, overwhelming and anxiety provoking and art making can capture this in different ways, helping your confidence and self esteem.
0113 519 5735 View 0113 519 5735
Photo of Berna Gorgulu Celik, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Berna Gorgulu Celik
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Hello I’m really glad you’re here. I’m an integrative therapist with a strong background in psychology and over 15 years of experience supporting people through a wide range of emotional difficulties. Alongside my academic training, I have also trained in EMDR, somatic approaches, and psychodynamic therapy. This allows me to work not only through talking, but also by gently exploring how your experiences may be held in your body, as well as understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns may be shaping your present thoughts, feelings, and relationships. This can be especially helpful when working with trauma, anxiety,
Hello I’m really glad you’re here. I’m an integrative therapist with a strong background in psychology and over 15 years of experience supporting people through a wide range of emotional difficulties. Alongside my academic training, I have also trained in EMDR, somatic approaches, and psychodynamic therapy. This allows me to work not only through talking, but also by gently exploring how your experiences may be held in your body, as well as understanding how past experiences and unconscious patterns may be shaping your present thoughts, feelings, and relationships. This can be especially helpful when working with trauma, anxiety,
01924 614452 View 01924 614452
Photo of Dr Lewis Miller, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Lewis Miller
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
1 Endorsed
Leeds LS7
I know how important it is to feel safe, heard, and respected in therapy. That’s why I prioritise a genuine, human connection from the very first session. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my work, and I’ll take time to create a space where you feel comfortable to share whatever feels important at your own pace. Our initial conversations will focus on understanding what’s brought you to therapy and what you’d like to get out of it. Together, we’ll begin to explore your experiences and build a shared understanding of the challenges you’re facing, as well as the factors that may be contributing to them.
I know how important it is to feel safe, heard, and respected in therapy. That’s why I prioritise a genuine, human connection from the very first session. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of my work, and I’ll take time to create a space where you feel comfortable to share whatever feels important at your own pace. Our initial conversations will focus on understanding what’s brought you to therapy and what you’d like to get out of it. Together, we’ll begin to explore your experiences and build a shared understanding of the challenges you’re facing, as well as the factors that may be contributing to them.
0113 519 8845 View 0113 519 8845
Photo of Gabi Herrett - Canvas Play Therapy, Counsellor, PTUK
Canvas Play Therapy
Counsellor, PTUK
I am a qualified Play Therapist offering a warm, creative, and child-centred space where children and young people can safely explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Using a range of therapeutic approaches including non-directive play, sensory and creative work, I support children aged 3 and up who may be struggling with big emotions, anxiety, behavioural challenges, neurodivergence (including ADHD and autism), and life changes. I understand that children often communicate through play rather than words. I will meet them at their level, building a trusting relationship where they feel seen, heard, and understood.
I am a qualified Play Therapist offering a warm, creative, and child-centred space where children and young people can safely explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Using a range of therapeutic approaches including non-directive play, sensory and creative work, I support children aged 3 and up who may be struggling with big emotions, anxiety, behavioural challenges, neurodivergence (including ADHD and autism), and life changes. I understand that children often communicate through play rather than words. I will meet them at their level, building a trusting relationship where they feel seen, heard, and understood.
0161 524 7027 View 0161 524 7027
Photo of Anne Andrieux, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Anne Andrieux
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Skipton BD23
Whether your child is dealing with self-esteem issues, grief and loss of a loved one, abuse, trauma, adoption issues, or eating disorders, I am here to help.
I am a passionate and dedicated therapist specializing in working with children and young people. With years of experience in school settings, I have seen first-hand the remarkable positive impact that comes from truly seeing and hearing young individuals. I tailor therapy to each individual's needs, incorporating therapeutic play and expressive art therapy for younger clients. My approach fosters a trusting, non-judgmental environment where clients can thrive. As a French therapist, I understand the complexity of different cultures and am respectful of that, bringing a unique perspective to my practice.
Whether your child is dealing with self-esteem issues, grief and loss of a loved one, abuse, trauma, adoption issues, or eating disorders, I am here to help.
I am a passionate and dedicated therapist specializing in working with children and young people. With years of experience in school settings, I have seen first-hand the remarkable positive impact that comes from truly seeing and hearing young individuals. I tailor therapy to each individual's needs, incorporating therapeutic play and expressive art therapy for younger clients. My approach fosters a trusting, non-judgmental environment where clients can thrive. As a French therapist, I understand the complexity of different cultures and am respectful of that, bringing a unique perspective to my practice.
01756 633436 View 01756 633436
Photo of Douglas Silveira, Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Douglas Silveira
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Bradford BD13
Hi, I'm Douglas, an MA integrative psychotherapist and mental health professional with over 15 years of experience helping adults and families in the healthcare sector. I offer online therapy to adults navigating a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief, divorce, identity exploration, and life transitions. I warmly welcome everyone, and I have worked highly with neurodivergent clients, including those with ADHD and autism, and individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community. I also welcome immigrants and people of all racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds.
Hi, I'm Douglas, an MA integrative psychotherapist and mental health professional with over 15 years of experience helping adults and families in the healthcare sector. I offer online therapy to adults navigating a range of emotional and psychological challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, grief, divorce, identity exploration, and life transitions. I warmly welcome everyone, and I have worked highly with neurodivergent clients, including those with ADHD and autism, and individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community. I also welcome immigrants and people of all racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds.
020 4572 8182 View 020 4572 8182
Photo of Sharon Andrea Shaw, Psychotherapist, MBBS, MBACP
Sharon Andrea Shaw
Psychotherapist, MBBS, MBACP
Feeling SAD, CONFUSED and/or ANGRY? Feeling stuck/trapped? What's the point? Nothing changes? I know the fears of opening up emotionally or mentally. I also know now of how beneficial it is for YOU. To have time to understand your 'self' so that YOU can process and heal, change YOUR future. It's empowering. I have studied for 6 years, to Masters level. Committed to my own personal development. Losing nearly three stone in weight (an emotional eater). Unattached from drinking 5 times a week to now occasionally socially or sometimes I just drink water and ice! Smoking and a fitter body is next. YOU are important! Take control back!
Feeling SAD, CONFUSED and/or ANGRY? Feeling stuck/trapped? What's the point? Nothing changes? I know the fears of opening up emotionally or mentally. I also know now of how beneficial it is for YOU. To have time to understand your 'self' so that YOU can process and heal, change YOUR future. It's empowering. I have studied for 6 years, to Masters level. Committed to my own personal development. Losing nearly three stone in weight (an emotional eater). Unattached from drinking 5 times a week to now occasionally socially or sometimes I just drink water and ice! Smoking and a fitter body is next. YOU are important! Take control back!
01302 496594 View 01302 496594
Photo of Dr Kate Barker, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr Kate Barker
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Serves Area
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist. I offer assessment and therapy to adults aged 18 and over. I have additional training and qualifications in EMDR, DBT and CFT. I also use an Internal Family System (IFS approach). I have a particular interest and experiences in PTSD and complex trauma but can offer support for a very wide range of difficulties and distress. Please visit my website www.reflecttherapies.com to see more about my approach. I can offer in person and online sessions.
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist. I offer assessment and therapy to adults aged 18 and over. I have additional training and qualifications in EMDR, DBT and CFT. I also use an Internal Family System (IFS approach). I have a particular interest and experiences in PTSD and complex trauma but can offer support for a very wide range of difficulties and distress. Please visit my website www.reflecttherapies.com to see more about my approach. I can offer in person and online sessions.
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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.