Adoption Therapists in 94044

Photo of Ginny Pizzardi, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94044, CA
Ginny Pizzardi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My areas of expertise include self-esteem, relationships, grief, parenting, adoption, trauma and addiction.
Are you struggling in your relationships or personal connections? Suffering from depression or anxiety? Experiencing loss, grief or sadness? Difficulty with work/life balance? You don't need to struggle alone. I'm a psychotherapist with over 40 years of experience, and I'm here to help. Individuals, couples and families call me when they're ready to tackle the problems that make life difficult.
My areas of expertise include self-esteem, relationships, grief, parenting, adoption, trauma and addiction.
Are you struggling in your relationships or personal connections? Suffering from depression or anxiety? Experiencing loss, grief or sadness? Difficulty with work/life balance? You don't need to struggle alone. I'm a psychotherapist with over 40 years of experience, and I'm here to help. Individuals, couples and families call me when they're ready to tackle the problems that make life difficult.
(415) 787-2980 View (415) 787-2980
Photo of Heidi Pidcoke, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94044, CA
Heidi Pidcoke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
Sometimes in life we experience seasons of feeling adrift and lost. Other times we have faced immensely painful circumstances which have left a lingering impact on our thoughts, mood and behavior. Working together we can illuminate pathways to resolve these challenges and reach a sense of safety, connection and purpose. As a Somatic Psychotherapist, I specialize in restoring a mind/body connection along with focusing on overcoming the distress caused by a sudden transition, loss, violence, burnout and betrayal.
Sometimes in life we experience seasons of feeling adrift and lost. Other times we have faced immensely painful circumstances which have left a lingering impact on our thoughts, mood and behavior. Working together we can illuminate pathways to resolve these challenges and reach a sense of safety, connection and purpose. As a Somatic Psychotherapist, I specialize in restoring a mind/body connection along with focusing on overcoming the distress caused by a sudden transition, loss, violence, burnout and betrayal.
(626) 314-5517 View (626) 314-5517
Photo of Aliza Shelan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94044, CA
Aliza Shelan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
Teen angst? Bring it on! I work with adolescents, teens, and parents in navigating some of the most difficult years. If you are having difficulty connecting with your child, tween, or teen I will assist you with enhancing your connection while simultaneously setting boundaries as a parent. Sounds like a difficult feat? I know! But isn't it from the challenging times that we gain the most? Do you remember what it was like getting through middle school? Many of us would like to forget, however, with assistance it does not have to be so difficult for your child or for you to reach them.
Teen angst? Bring it on! I work with adolescents, teens, and parents in navigating some of the most difficult years. If you are having difficulty connecting with your child, tween, or teen I will assist you with enhancing your connection while simultaneously setting boundaries as a parent. Sounds like a difficult feat? I know! But isn't it from the challenging times that we gain the most? Do you remember what it was like getting through middle school? Many of us would like to forget, however, with assistance it does not have to be so difficult for your child or for you to reach them.
(628) 400-0314 View (628) 400-0314
Photo of Christina Marie Balistreri, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94044, CA
Christina Marie Balistreri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044  (Online Only)
I have worked with a wide variety of clients dealing with a range of symptoms. I enjoy working with different clients from adults to kids and individual, families, couples and groups and I believe we can all learn from each other. I enjoy offering my experiences and skills to help others better understand themselves and their relationships. I understand that life challenges, both big and small, can affect people's mood and productivity. I am caring, compassionate, understanding and a great listener. I provide a very non-judgmental and caring space for clients to explore the challenges they are faced with.
I have worked with a wide variety of clients dealing with a range of symptoms. I enjoy working with different clients from adults to kids and individual, families, couples and groups and I believe we can all learn from each other. I enjoy offering my experiences and skills to help others better understand themselves and their relationships. I understand that life challenges, both big and small, can affect people's mood and productivity. I am caring, compassionate, understanding and a great listener. I provide a very non-judgmental and caring space for clients to explore the challenges they are faced with.
(415) 855-7947 View (415) 855-7947
Photo of Rafael Portuges, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94044, CA
Rafael Portuges
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), my mission is to provide compassionate and effective therapy to individuals, couples, and families facing a variety of challenges. I believe in the power of therapy as a collaborative process, where clients are empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a safe and supportive environment. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity, recognizing that each person's experiences and perspectives are unique. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust and authenticity.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), my mission is to provide compassionate and effective therapy to individuals, couples, and families facing a variety of challenges. I believe in the power of therapy as a collaborative process, where clients are empowered to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a safe and supportive environment. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity, recognizing that each person's experiences and perspectives are unique. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust and authenticity.
(650) 360-9881 View (650) 360-9881
Photo of Sabina Wieczner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94044, CA
Sabina Wieczner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
My name is Sabina Wieczner and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Sacramento, CA. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults on many issues including loss, attachment, anxiety, depression, anger, impulsivity, and low self-esteem. I use mindfulness and CBT in my work. The majority of my experience has been with clients having suffered multiple traumas, substance use disorders, grief/loss, depression, unhealthy interpersonal relationships, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
My name is Sabina Wieczner and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Sacramento, CA. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults on many issues including loss, attachment, anxiety, depression, anger, impulsivity, and low self-esteem. I use mindfulness and CBT in my work. The majority of my experience has been with clients having suffered multiple traumas, substance use disorders, grief/loss, depression, unhealthy interpersonal relationships, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
(951) 517-4691 View (951) 517-4691
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94044, CA
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Ashley Hansen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94044, CA
Ashley Hansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacifica, CA 94044
I work with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds facing various kinds of transitions. Each new phase of life may bring changes that cause us to adapt and grow in somewhat unpredictable ways. Sometimes hurts from our past arise and get in our way. Whatever you're facing, my goal is to work with you to find unique strengths and creative solutions that allow you to thrive in the midst of change. I provide therapy virtually, so I can see anyone in California via telehealth. And I also see clients in person in Pacifica and San Francisco.
I work with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds facing various kinds of transitions. Each new phase of life may bring changes that cause us to adapt and grow in somewhat unpredictable ways. Sometimes hurts from our past arise and get in our way. Whatever you're facing, my goal is to work with you to find unique strengths and creative solutions that allow you to thrive in the midst of change. I provide therapy virtually, so I can see anyone in California via telehealth. And I also see clients in person in Pacifica and San Francisco.
(650) 242-5479 View (650) 242-5479
Photo of Christopher Arrillaga, Psychologist in 94044, CA
Christopher Arrillaga
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044
I am a clinical psychologist that works with children, adolescents, and adults in both English and Spanish. I believe that compassion and insight into one's personal struggles can lead to powerful, positive changes in life. I specialize in pediatric neuropsychological testing for children and young adults regarding learning, developmental, social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. My collaborative approach to psychological testing seeks to empower parents and their child to gain a new perspective and deeper understanding of a particular child's unique strengths and individualized needs.
I am a clinical psychologist that works with children, adolescents, and adults in both English and Spanish. I believe that compassion and insight into one's personal struggles can lead to powerful, positive changes in life. I specialize in pediatric neuropsychological testing for children and young adults regarding learning, developmental, social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties. My collaborative approach to psychological testing seeks to empower parents and their child to gain a new perspective and deeper understanding of a particular child's unique strengths and individualized needs.
(512) 882-1139 View (512) 882-1139
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.