Adoption Therapists in 01720

Photo of Suzanne Dirstine, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Dirstine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
My experience includes extensive work with children and adults in outpatient clinics, sexual abuse treatment teams, inpatient settings and adoption services.
Welcome. I believe that your experience of the therapeutic relationship should be comfortable and feel secure. I utilize an attachment based approach and believe that once feelings of safety are established in therapy that real changes in thoughts, feelings and relationships are possible. I have a warm and interested style of interacting with others and it is always important to me that you feel heard and valued in our time together. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like to know more or have any questions.
My experience includes extensive work with children and adults in outpatient clinics, sexual abuse treatment teams, inpatient settings and adoption services.
Welcome. I believe that your experience of the therapeutic relationship should be comfortable and feel secure. I utilize an attachment based approach and believe that once feelings of safety are established in therapy that real changes in thoughts, feelings and relationships are possible. I have a warm and interested style of interacting with others and it is always important to me that you feel heard and valued in our time together. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like to know more or have any questions.
(978) 598-3355 View (978) 598-3355
Photo of undefined - Nancy Yen, MS, LMFT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Yen, MS, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Nancy is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who has a strong conviction in human resiliency. Her philosophy is that personal challenges provide opportunities to reclaim Power, Identity, & Healing. Her work has included experience in an array of clinical settings & training with experience with Adoption, Couples, Trauma & complex Family issues.
Nancy is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who has a strong conviction in human resiliency. Her philosophy is that personal challenges provide opportunities to reclaim Power, Identity, & Healing. Her work has included experience in an array of clinical settings & training with experience with Adoption, Couples, Trauma & complex Family issues.
(508) 455-4046 View (508) 455-4046
Photo of Kelli L Kirshtein, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelli L Kirshtein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
I have worked with adults and teens for over 25 years in school and clinical settings, addressing issues including adoption, ASDs, ADHD, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+, motivation, goals-clarification, and substance misuse.
I enjoy working with adults and teens looking to clarify goals, work more effectively with challenging emotions, and, using Mary Oliver's eloquent words, help them answer the question "what do you plan to do with your one wild and precious life." I use strength-based approaches to help clients set and achieve goals and boost happiness. Having experience as a school-based therapist and as a parent, I am helpful as a parent coach/mentor/therapist and enjoy working with teens regarding school-related challenges.
I have worked with adults and teens for over 25 years in school and clinical settings, addressing issues including adoption, ASDs, ADHD, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ+, motivation, goals-clarification, and substance misuse.
I enjoy working with adults and teens looking to clarify goals, work more effectively with challenging emotions, and, using Mary Oliver's eloquent words, help them answer the question "what do you plan to do with your one wild and precious life." I use strength-based approaches to help clients set and achieve goals and boost happiness. Having experience as a school-based therapist and as a parent, I am helpful as a parent coach/mentor/therapist and enjoy working with teens regarding school-related challenges.
(857) 763-2316 View (857) 763-2316
Photo of Heather O'Brien, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to making progress in therapy. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for us to begin our work together. I am an active therapist and will work collaboratively with you to make therapy goals, learn and practice new coping skills, and solve problems. I am particularly passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum caregivers and caregivers of children with developmental challenges. Other areas of interest and expertise are: anxiety, depression, adoption, relationship stress, trauma, and parenting.
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is essential to making progress in therapy. I strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental space for us to begin our work together. I am an active therapist and will work collaboratively with you to make therapy goals, learn and practice new coping skills, and solve problems. I am particularly passionate about working with pregnant and postpartum caregivers and caregivers of children with developmental challenges. Other areas of interest and expertise are: anxiety, depression, adoption, relationship stress, trauma, and parenting.
(978) 571-5769 View (978) 571-5769
Photo of Joanne Kerr, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Are anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship difficulties robbing you of the peace and contentment that you long for? Using empathy, finely honed listening skills, and drawing on years of clinical experience, I’d be happy to explore if we can work well together. My style is warm, and I value collaboration with clients, who are the experts in their own lives. We may focus on adding new skills, but I believe much of the success in therapy is about the relationship between client and therapist. Our relationship may be short term or longer, but above all my wish is to help you with the issue that brings you into the office.
Are anxiety, depression, stress, or relationship difficulties robbing you of the peace and contentment that you long for? Using empathy, finely honed listening skills, and drawing on years of clinical experience, I’d be happy to explore if we can work well together. My style is warm, and I value collaboration with clients, who are the experts in their own lives. We may focus on adding new skills, but I believe much of the success in therapy is about the relationship between client and therapist. Our relationship may be short term or longer, but above all my wish is to help you with the issue that brings you into the office.
(508) 471-3458 View (508) 471-3458
Photo of Jamie Chiarelli, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Chiarelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Welcome! I have experience working with people of all ages who have found themselves faced with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life transition and stress, parenting challenges, social and relationship issues, and feeling stuck in general. My approach is highly relational, warm, supportive and sprinkled with humor when appropriate. Our initial sessions will focus on building trust and using collaboration and curiosity as we develop a plan to address your concerns. I firmly believe that we all have inherent resources and strengths within us that can be tapped into to support the process of healing and growth.
Welcome! I have experience working with people of all ages who have found themselves faced with anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, life transition and stress, parenting challenges, social and relationship issues, and feeling stuck in general. My approach is highly relational, warm, supportive and sprinkled with humor when appropriate. Our initial sessions will focus on building trust and using collaboration and curiosity as we develop a plan to address your concerns. I firmly believe that we all have inherent resources and strengths within us that can be tapped into to support the process of healing and growth.
(978) 581-6413 View (978) 581-6413
Photo of Deborah Stames-Merz, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Stames-Merz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Individual Therapy Are you struggling with parenting or relationship issues? ​ Do you wish you could improve your communication skills with others? ​ Do you feel anxious, depressed or experiencing panic attacks? ​ Do you want to make changes in your life so you can live a more genuine life? ​ -PLAY THERAPY ​ Does your 2-11 year old have a hard time expressing their feelings which results in difficult behaviors? ​ -ELDER CARE COUNSELING AND CASE MANAGEMENT ​ Are you a Caretaker and need help managing your commitments to your immediate family as well as your elder parents? ​ Do you need help navigating the Medicaid/Medicare process?
Individual Therapy Are you struggling with parenting or relationship issues? ​ Do you wish you could improve your communication skills with others? ​ Do you feel anxious, depressed or experiencing panic attacks? ​ Do you want to make changes in your life so you can live a more genuine life? ​ -PLAY THERAPY ​ Does your 2-11 year old have a hard time expressing their feelings which results in difficult behaviors? ​ -ELDER CARE COUNSELING AND CASE MANAGEMENT ​ Are you a Caretaker and need help managing your commitments to your immediate family as well as your elder parents? ​ Do you need help navigating the Medicaid/Medicare process?
(617) 221-3855 View (617) 221-3855
Photo of undefined - Christine Musello, Psy.D., PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Christine Musello, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Waitlist for new clients
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most meetings are remote and openings are rare. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, parent guidance, veterans, family relationships, trauma and PTSD are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope to meet.
Update November 2020: If you viewed this profile recently, please note that I've moved! In addition, currently most meetings are remote and openings are rare. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, parent guidance, veterans, family relationships, trauma and PTSD are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope to meet.
(978) 290-4977 View (978) 290-4977
Photo of undefined - The Stress Reduction Center, MEd, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Stress Reduction Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I am an experienced, caring and active therapist committed to helping people move towards change. Creating a trusting and safe relationship is a crucial first step and I aim to develop a comfortable and positive rapport. I have a lot of skills and effective approaches and will create an individualized treatment plan to best address your issues. I work with adults and teenagers with a variety of problems. Some of my work is short-term, targeting specific symptoms such as headaches or anxiety. Other clients benefit from more on-going exploration to address such problems as relationship difficulties or self-esteem issues.
I am an experienced, caring and active therapist committed to helping people move towards change. Creating a trusting and safe relationship is a crucial first step and I aim to develop a comfortable and positive rapport. I have a lot of skills and effective approaches and will create an individualized treatment plan to best address your issues. I work with adults and teenagers with a variety of problems. Some of my work is short-term, targeting specific symptoms such as headaches or anxiety. Other clients benefit from more on-going exploration to address such problems as relationship difficulties or self-esteem issues.
(978) 910-0071 View (978) 910-0071
Photo of Adrian Rivera, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrian Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
Some people struggle for weeks, months, or even years before considering psychotherapy. And it makes sense — it's hard to confide in a stranger and can take a while to find the right fit. We want authenticity and experience in a therapist but also someone relatable and easy to talk with. When couples counseling, family therapy, or child/adolescent support is needed, the search may seem even more daunting. We need a clinician with the interpersonal skills, temperament, and adaptability to forge a meaningful connection with our partners, children, and the networks who support them.
(978) 938-9017 View (978) 938-9017
Photo of Heather Percy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Percy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Whether you're an adolescent, a young adult, or an adult grappling with the weight of depression, anxiety, and daily stressors, my goal is to be your unwavering support. If you've found that the heavy burden of depression, anxiety, or the relentless strain of daily stressors is affecting your life, then I'm here to offer a helping hand. I'm committed to helping you identify and achieve your goals, guiding you as you navigate and manage these symptoms or stressors. Together, we can work towards a brighter future, where you can regain control over your life, find peace amidst the chaos, and rediscover your sense of balance.
Whether you're an adolescent, a young adult, or an adult grappling with the weight of depression, anxiety, and daily stressors, my goal is to be your unwavering support. If you've found that the heavy burden of depression, anxiety, or the relentless strain of daily stressors is affecting your life, then I'm here to offer a helping hand. I'm committed to helping you identify and achieve your goals, guiding you as you navigate and manage these symptoms or stressors. Together, we can work towards a brighter future, where you can regain control over your life, find peace amidst the chaos, and rediscover your sense of balance.
(978) 300-8447 View (978) 300-8447
Photo of Rebecca Eddy Muccilli, PsyD, Psychologist
Rebecca Eddy Muccilli
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst who provides therapy to individuals who are looking to more authentically connect with themselves and others; understand who they are, what they are feeling, and why they are experiencing the emotions they are feeling. I am trained to provide a variety of therapeutic interventions. I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit the unique needs and desires of each individual client. I use an insight oriented approach to aid individuals in understanding and interrupting repetitive patterns that may be interfering or often lead us to that "stuck" feeling.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst who provides therapy to individuals who are looking to more authentically connect with themselves and others; understand who they are, what they are feeling, and why they are experiencing the emotions they are feeling. I am trained to provide a variety of therapeutic interventions. I tailor my therapeutic approach to fit the unique needs and desires of each individual client. I use an insight oriented approach to aid individuals in understanding and interrupting repetitive patterns that may be interfering or often lead us to that "stuck" feeling.
(857) 226-8759 View (857) 226-8759
Photo of Janice Berman, PhD, Psychologist
Janice Berman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
When searching for a therapist, either for yourself or for your child, the process can be confusing and frustrating. Finding the right person may be challenging, but it will be worth the effort to find someone you are comfortable with. Ideally therapy will allow you to tell your story and get to the heart of the problems you have been facing. You will be able to build on the knowledge and strengths you already have and ultimately gain the perspective to move through your challenges.
When searching for a therapist, either for yourself or for your child, the process can be confusing and frustrating. Finding the right person may be challenging, but it will be worth the effort to find someone you are comfortable with. Ideally therapy will allow you to tell your story and get to the heart of the problems you have been facing. You will be able to build on the knowledge and strengths you already have and ultimately gain the perspective to move through your challenges.
(978) 201-6065 View (978) 201-6065
Photo of John T. Chirban, PhD, ThD, Psychologist
John T. Chirban
Psychologist, PhD, ThD
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address concerns with relationships, identity, intimacy and sexuality, and spirituality, in addition to general psychological problems. My approach to therapy is active, relational, and result-oriented, encouraging clients take hold of their life and find the meaning that life holds for them. I have served as an instructor at Harvard Medical School and Psychologist at the Cambridge Health Alliance for more than 25 years. And have been serving on the Advisory Board of the Dr. Phil Show, since its inception. (See drchirban.com and swampscottpsychologicalassociates.com)
I work with individuals, couples, and families to address concerns with relationships, identity, intimacy and sexuality, and spirituality, in addition to general psychological problems. My approach to therapy is active, relational, and result-oriented, encouraging clients take hold of their life and find the meaning that life holds for them. I have served as an instructor at Harvard Medical School and Psychologist at the Cambridge Health Alliance for more than 25 years. And have been serving on the Advisory Board of the Dr. Phil Show, since its inception. (See drchirban.com and swampscottpsychologicalassociates.com)
(857) 203-0549 View (857) 203-0549
Photo of undefined - Interaction Counseling, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Interaction Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Hello, my name is Shari Bennett, I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 35 years of experience as a therapist . In 1988 I opened Interactions Counseling and Intervention Center, a group private practice in Westford, MA. At Interactions we believe in treating the child and adolescent within the context of the family, school and larger community. For adults, we offer individual, family, and couples counseling, separately or in combination, so that the person can achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time. We collaborate with you to design a treatment plan that is unique to your specific needs.
Hello, my name is Shari Bennett, I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 35 years of experience as a therapist . In 1988 I opened Interactions Counseling and Intervention Center, a group private practice in Westford, MA. At Interactions we believe in treating the child and adolescent within the context of the family, school and larger community. For adults, we offer individual, family, and couples counseling, separately or in combination, so that the person can achieve the best results in the shortest amount of time. We collaborate with you to design a treatment plan that is unique to your specific needs.
(508) 433-3376 View (508) 433-3376
Photo of Amy C Wolf, MA, LMHC, AT, Counselor
Amy C Wolf
Counselor, MA, LMHC, AT
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Is your child struggling with a new or past life event, change or trauma? Have they experienced a loss? Maybe they are experiencing emotional outbursts, tearfulness, stress or difficulty sleeping at night. Are they having difficulty in school or within the family?
Is your child struggling with a new or past life event, change or trauma? Have they experienced a loss? Maybe they are experiencing emotional outbursts, tearfulness, stress or difficulty sleeping at night. Are they having difficulty in school or within the family?
(351) 777-1161 View (351) 777-1161
Photo of Kathleen McCarthy, LICSW, CADCII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen McCarthy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CADCII
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Acton, MA 01720
Not accepting new clients
Need help dealing with some of life's challenges? Taking that first step to call can be the hardest but the most rewarding in the end. I can help you explore options to live a healthier lifestyle, learn effective skills, and build upon existing strengths to heal and feel better. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, grief and problems related to school, work, parenting and relationships. I hold an advanced certification in drug and alcohol counseling and specialize in working with survivors of domestic violence. Please call or email to inquire if I am accepting new clients.
Need help dealing with some of life's challenges? Taking that first step to call can be the hardest but the most rewarding in the end. I can help you explore options to live a healthier lifestyle, learn effective skills, and build upon existing strengths to heal and feel better. I have experience working with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, grief and problems related to school, work, parenting and relationships. I hold an advanced certification in drug and alcohol counseling and specialize in working with survivors of domestic violence. Please call or email to inquire if I am accepting new clients.
(978) 894-0079 View (978) 894-0079
Adoption Therapists

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 behavioral 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, behavioral, 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.