Photo of Lindsey Gurley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Lindsey Gurley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
When people have experienced trauma, losses, stressors, and difficulties in relationships, they sometimes struggle to find hope. When relationships with friends, children & family are confusing and challenging, many feel isolated. You may judge yourself harshly instead of practicing self-compassion, leading to feelings of low self-esteem. In addition to meeting the needs of people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and family conflict, members of the adoption triad will find a safe space here to explore their story and prepare to meet the unique needs that encompass adoption.
When people have experienced trauma, losses, stressors, and difficulties in relationships, they sometimes struggle to find hope. When relationships with friends, children & family are confusing and challenging, many feel isolated. You may judge yourself harshly instead of practicing self-compassion, leading to feelings of low self-esteem. In addition to meeting the needs of people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and family conflict, members of the adoption triad will find a safe space here to explore their story and prepare to meet the unique needs that encompass adoption.
(251) 235-5506 View (251) 235-5506
Photo of Morgan Granberry Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Morgan Granberry Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35816
This is the perfect place for anyone seeking non-judgmental support and understanding. I specialize in mood disorders, trauma, adoption, foster care, attachment, and behavioral issues. I am committed to creating a comfortable, empathetic environment where you can take the first step toward change.
This is the perfect place for anyone seeking non-judgmental support and understanding. I specialize in mood disorders, trauma, adoption, foster care, attachment, and behavioral issues. I am committed to creating a comfortable, empathetic environment where you can take the first step toward change.
(256) 617-6617 View (256) 617-6617
Photo of Lifeline Counseling at Lifeline Children's Service, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Lifeline Counseling at Lifeline Children's Service
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
At Lifeline, we specialize in adoption and foster care related issues like attachment, trauma, identity development of adoptees, grief, and so much more, and approach treatment in a way that involves the whole family.
Adopting or fostering comes with many challenges. Families go into it excited about the child they will love and care for, and it is common to experience many challenges in loving a child from a hard place. Children placed for adoption or in foster care have experienced a great deal of loss. This leaves them dealing with pain on a deep level. Families often feel guilty or like they haven't been good parents if their child experiences attachment difficulties. But the truth is that it would be weird if they didn't based on their life experiences. These issues are complex and multi-layered, often involving the entire family system.
At Lifeline, we specialize in adoption and foster care related issues like attachment, trauma, identity development of adoptees, grief, and so much more, and approach treatment in a way that involves the whole family.
Adopting or fostering comes with many challenges. Families go into it excited about the child they will love and care for, and it is common to experience many challenges in loving a child from a hard place. Children placed for adoption or in foster care have experienced a great deal of loss. This leaves them dealing with pain on a deep level. Families often feel guilty or like they haven't been good parents if their child experiences attachment difficulties. But the truth is that it would be weird if they didn't based on their life experiences. These issues are complex and multi-layered, often involving the entire family system.
(205) 967-0811 View (205) 967-0811
Photo of Tara Tate, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Tara Tate
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairhope, AL 36532
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in issues related to trauma, adoption, and supporting children and families.
UPDATE as of 9/7/23... I currently am NOT able to take on new clients. I appreciate your interest and apologize for any inconvenience this may create. I DO have availability with my MFT student/intern. Please reach out to be seen by him. We all struggle in life sometimes and need help! In this day and age it can be hard to find the space to discuss the challenges of life with someone in a safe and genuine way. I enjoy meeting people where they are at in life, without judgement, and helping them sort out their next steps whether they be for improvement, maintenance, or understanding.
I specialize in issues related to trauma, adoption, and supporting children and families.
UPDATE as of 9/7/23... I currently am NOT able to take on new clients. I appreciate your interest and apologize for any inconvenience this may create. I DO have availability with my MFT student/intern. Please reach out to be seen by him. We all struggle in life sometimes and need help! In this day and age it can be hard to find the space to discuss the challenges of life with someone in a safe and genuine way. I enjoy meeting people where they are at in life, without judgement, and helping them sort out their next steps whether they be for improvement, maintenance, or understanding.
(251) 270-2441 View (251) 270-2441
Photo of Connie Vais Fleming, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Connie Vais Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
For you, your child, or teen please know I am available to provide help. With a strong background in inpatient, intensive outpatient and many years of private practice. I have 34 years of specialized clinical training, strong commitment to the advancement of my career, and offer therapeutic guidance & support to my clients. I work with women of all ages, children and teens. I specialize in treating emotional and physical trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. I also am very passionate about my work with children and families with issues related to adoption & attachment trauma/wounds.
For you, your child, or teen please know I am available to provide help. With a strong background in inpatient, intensive outpatient and many years of private practice. I have 34 years of specialized clinical training, strong commitment to the advancement of my career, and offer therapeutic guidance & support to my clients. I work with women of all ages, children and teens. I specialize in treating emotional and physical trauma, PTSD, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression. I also am very passionate about my work with children and families with issues related to adoption & attachment trauma/wounds.
(251) 766-5838 View (251) 766-5838
Photo of Beau Armistead, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Beau Armistead
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35216
Since 1995,I have worked with adolescents and adults, specifically in the areas of substance abuse, PTSD, trauma, adoption, family and relationship issues.
Sojourn means "to stay for a time in a place or to live temporarily". This is my view of our life on earth. It is a temporary stay, and our time here can be difficult, confusing and painful at times. Sometimes, we need help navigating. I believe that we each have a unique story and set of experiences that make us who we are. What we believe about ourselves and the world around us impacts how we feel and respond to life. I'd like to help you navigate life so that you may have the most abundant life possible.
Since 1995,I have worked with adolescents and adults, specifically in the areas of substance abuse, PTSD, trauma, adoption, family and relationship issues.
Sojourn means "to stay for a time in a place or to live temporarily". This is my view of our life on earth. It is a temporary stay, and our time here can be difficult, confusing and painful at times. Sometimes, we need help navigating. I believe that we each have a unique story and set of experiences that make us who we are. What we believe about ourselves and the world around us impacts how we feel and respond to life. I'd like to help you navigate life so that you may have the most abundant life possible.
(205) 479-3619 View (205) 479-3619
Photo of Alison Grace Hampton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Alison Grace Hampton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36608
I specialize in clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD as well as couple issues such as sex addiction, infidelity, stepparenting, adoption, and conflict resolution.
Whether you need relationship counseling, life coaching, or clinical counseling for OCD, depression, or substance abuse, my aim is to partner with you to bring about the change you desire. I work well with older teens, adults, and couples of all ages. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy as well as The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
I specialize in clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD as well as couple issues such as sex addiction, infidelity, stepparenting, adoption, and conflict resolution.
Whether you need relationship counseling, life coaching, or clinical counseling for OCD, depression, or substance abuse, my aim is to partner with you to bring about the change you desire. I work well with older teens, adults, and couples of all ages. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy as well as The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
(251) 714-9930 View (251) 714-9930
Photo of Tony L. Gunn II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Tony L. Gunn II
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, TCT, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
I have been able to obtain board certification as a transgender care therapist, qualified substance abuse professional (SAP)/ DOT, and trained in Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) processing and creating home studies for adoption purposes.
Each client has unique needs that are important to understand. My work includes supporting, advocating, and providing psychoeducation that includes recognizing a person’s race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender. I specialize in helping people work with their gender dysphoria, sexual identity, and sexual orientation in a supportive and affirming space. From social transitioning to gender-affirming surgery, your goals will be honored without pathologizing your gender. My methodology consist of cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, motivational interviewing incorporating strength based person-centered approach.
I have been able to obtain board certification as a transgender care therapist, qualified substance abuse professional (SAP)/ DOT, and trained in Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) processing and creating home studies for adoption purposes.
Each client has unique needs that are important to understand. My work includes supporting, advocating, and providing psychoeducation that includes recognizing a person’s race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender. I specialize in helping people work with their gender dysphoria, sexual identity, and sexual orientation in a supportive and affirming space. From social transitioning to gender-affirming surgery, your goals will be honored without pathologizing your gender. My methodology consist of cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, motivational interviewing incorporating strength based person-centered approach.
(251) 357-9695 View (251) 357-9695
Photo of Jennifer Cook Duster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Jennifer Cook Duster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
If you think the world is caving in on you or someone will not understand, let me help! Come see me and let's have a conversation to help you experience hope; let me be your first step to change your life! I have 17+ years of experience in various social work/counseling fields including child and adult welfare, adoption, behavior modification, school success, hospice, and social work case management. Life is too short to think you have to be alone; let me be a resource for you!
If you think the world is caving in on you or someone will not understand, let me help! Come see me and let's have a conversation to help you experience hope; let me be your first step to change your life! I have 17+ years of experience in various social work/counseling fields including child and adult welfare, adoption, behavior modification, school success, hospice, and social work case management. Life is too short to think you have to be alone; let me be a resource for you!
(256) 695-1589 View (256) 695-1589
Photo of Leah Patrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Leah Patrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36606
People from all walks of life facing life's challenges with a sense of urgency, seek support to find healing, happiness, and harmony. Especially when dealing with pressing issues like children's well-being, adoption, addiction, family conflicts, mood disorders, or autism-related concerns, they're looking to rediscover peace of mind and build resilience swiftly. I specialize in role play and behavioral rehearsal, structured problem solving, supportive reflection and interpersonal resolutions. I make it a priority to call or text you back when you reach out to me while we work on issues.
People from all walks of life facing life's challenges with a sense of urgency, seek support to find healing, happiness, and harmony. Especially when dealing with pressing issues like children's well-being, adoption, addiction, family conflicts, mood disorders, or autism-related concerns, they're looking to rediscover peace of mind and build resilience swiftly. I specialize in role play and behavioral rehearsal, structured problem solving, supportive reflection and interpersonal resolutions. I make it a priority to call or text you back when you reach out to me while we work on issues.
(251) 270-2279 View (251) 270-2279
Photo of Savannah Parker, Counselor in Alabama
Savannah Parker
Counselor, ALC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36609
I particularly enjoy connecting with older teens, new mothers, and families walking through the adoption and fostering process.
As a therapist, I believe connection brings about healing. Because people are so unique, I don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Rather, I enter the counseling relationship authentically and meet my client where they are. From a practical standpoint, I enjoy helping people identify their attachment styles and how they approach the world and the people around them. I often incorporate techniques from ACT, CBT, and Positive Psychology, as I’m ultimately about empowering my clients to have the tools to live a healthy and thriving life.
I particularly enjoy connecting with older teens, new mothers, and families walking through the adoption and fostering process.
As a therapist, I believe connection brings about healing. Because people are so unique, I don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Rather, I enter the counseling relationship authentically and meet my client where they are. From a practical standpoint, I enjoy helping people identify their attachment styles and how they approach the world and the people around them. I often incorporate techniques from ACT, CBT, and Positive Psychology, as I’m ultimately about empowering my clients to have the tools to live a healthy and thriving life.
(251) 480-0070 View (251) 480-0070
Photo of April Morris, Counselor in Alabama
April Morris
Counselor, ALC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, foster care/ adoption, adjustment issues, cross-cultural issues, and TCKs.
Life's journey can be full of ups and downs that occasionally leave us feeling exhausted, confused, and deeply hurt. In these moments, we need help to overcome these challenges as we begin to make sense of these painful pieces of our story. Having someone to support you while offering compassion and empathy can help you restore and make sense of these parts of your journey. As your therapist, I seek to be an understanding presence by your side, helping you mend those fractured pieces and fueling your personal growth. I would be honored to come alongside you and support your healing journey.
I have experience working with trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, foster care/ adoption, adjustment issues, cross-cultural issues, and TCKs.
Life's journey can be full of ups and downs that occasionally leave us feeling exhausted, confused, and deeply hurt. In these moments, we need help to overcome these challenges as we begin to make sense of these painful pieces of our story. Having someone to support you while offering compassion and empathy can help you restore and make sense of these parts of your journey. As your therapist, I seek to be an understanding presence by your side, helping you mend those fractured pieces and fueling your personal growth. I would be honored to come alongside you and support your healing journey.
(205) 946-4912 View (205) 946-4912
Photo of Kelsey Horton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Kelsey Horton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Trussville, AL 35173
I work primarily with children & adolescents of all ages & their families but also have experience working with individuals & couples from diverse backgrounds & alternative lifestyles. I have worked with clients through various aspects of their life including anxiety, depression, trauma, coping with special needs, social skills, behavioral or relationship issues & life or familial transitions such as divorce, adoption & blended families.
I work primarily with children & adolescents of all ages & their families but also have experience working with individuals & couples from diverse backgrounds & alternative lifestyles. I have worked with clients through various aspects of their life including anxiety, depression, trauma, coping with special needs, social skills, behavioral or relationship issues & life or familial transitions such as divorce, adoption & blended families.
(205) 570-9689 View (205) 570-9689
Photo of Harper's Heart Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Harper's Heart Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CATP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35211  (Online Only)
I work with foster and adoptive families experiencing the distinctive challenges of the adoption process .
Do you want to feel heard and appreciated? If so, I specialize in helping others overcome daily life stressors such as depression and anxiety, family conflicts, and or general emotional distress. Allow me to assist with breaking down various psychological barriers.
I work with foster and adoptive families experiencing the distinctive challenges of the adoption process .
Do you want to feel heard and appreciated? If so, I specialize in helping others overcome daily life stressors such as depression and anxiety, family conflicts, and or general emotional distress. Allow me to assist with breaking down various psychological barriers.
(205) 270-4091 View (205) 270-4091
Photo of Rosemary Gowett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Rosemary Gowett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Payne, AL 35967
Rose loves to help individuals and families connect in a meaningful way as they learn better coping strategies to manage relationship issues, overcoming dependencies and trauma, and working with their anxiety, depression and any issue causing them to feel their life has become unmanageable or overwhelming. Rose has been with HCA for 5 years and has been working in the mental health care field for 15 years, spending 7 years as a psych tech in a residential mental health facility while working on the Bachelors and Masters degrees at Barry University in Florida, later interning for a private family practice specializing in adoption.
Rose loves to help individuals and families connect in a meaningful way as they learn better coping strategies to manage relationship issues, overcoming dependencies and trauma, and working with their anxiety, depression and any issue causing them to feel their life has become unmanageable or overwhelming. Rose has been with HCA for 5 years and has been working in the mental health care field for 15 years, spending 7 years as a psych tech in a residential mental health facility while working on the Bachelors and Masters degrees at Barry University in Florida, later interning for a private family practice specializing in adoption.
(256) 884-3046 View (256) 884-3046
Photo of Felicity Blunt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Felicity Blunt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242  (Online Only)
I have a masters in counseling and have provided help to people in community mental health centers, adoption agencies, and within my private practice.
Would you like to have a more fulfilling life? Do you ever feel alone in your struggles? We all feel like this sometimes and could use some help finding answers. I can develop a unique treatment plan based on the specific goals you would like to accomplish. Please allow me to help you identify ways to bring more balance and peace to your life. Reaching for help is the first brave step toward wholeness. Please call, text, or email today.
I have a masters in counseling and have provided help to people in community mental health centers, adoption agencies, and within my private practice.
Would you like to have a more fulfilling life? Do you ever feel alone in your struggles? We all feel like this sometimes and could use some help finding answers. I can develop a unique treatment plan based on the specific goals you would like to accomplish. Please allow me to help you identify ways to bring more balance and peace to your life. Reaching for help is the first brave step toward wholeness. Please call, text, or email today.
(205) 660-0511 View (205) 660-0511
Photo of Lynne Kilgore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Lynne Kilgore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36116
I also have a strong background in working with foster care and adoption issues.
I began human service work in 1986 after receiving my Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling from the University of Montevallo, located in Montevallo, Alabama. I received my Master of Education in Counseling from the University of Montevallo in 1994. I became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2001. I am currently licensed in Alabama and Georgia (inactive at present in Georgia) and am a board-certified supervisor for those wishing to become licensed counselors. A hurtful past cannot change, but moving through fear and hurt leads to acceptance, and then peace becomes evident.
I also have a strong background in working with foster care and adoption issues.
I began human service work in 1986 after receiving my Bachelor of Science degree in Counseling from the University of Montevallo, located in Montevallo, Alabama. I received my Master of Education in Counseling from the University of Montevallo in 1994. I became a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2001. I am currently licensed in Alabama and Georgia (inactive at present in Georgia) and am a board-certified supervisor for those wishing to become licensed counselors. A hurtful past cannot change, but moving through fear and hurt leads to acceptance, and then peace becomes evident.
(334) 401-4950 View (334) 401-4950
Photo of Lauren Kasi Freeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Lauren Kasi Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
Life got you down? Trauma holding you back? Or are you looking for someone to listen? It's an honor to be a counselor and would love to help you navigate this crazy thing called life. I'm passionate about working with children, teenagers, young adults, and new mothers. I have experience working with all types of traumas and abuses, PTSD, foster care/adoption, divorce issues, behavioral issues, peer relationships, and Per/Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders. If you're going through a hard time or know someone who is and could benefit from counseling, please call me today!
Life got you down? Trauma holding you back? Or are you looking for someone to listen? It's an honor to be a counselor and would love to help you navigate this crazy thing called life. I'm passionate about working with children, teenagers, young adults, and new mothers. I have experience working with all types of traumas and abuses, PTSD, foster care/adoption, divorce issues, behavioral issues, peer relationships, and Per/Postpartum Mood and Anxiety Disorders. If you're going through a hard time or know someone who is and could benefit from counseling, please call me today!
(256) 804-0641 View (256) 804-0641
Photo of Heather C Schuck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Heather C Schuck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
Services offered in Alabama (In Person or Telehealth) and Texas (Telehealth). Each client has their own unique needs that are important to understand. My work includes supporting clients struggling with attachment difficulties, relational trauma, and depression/anxiety related to these factors. In Individual Therapy, my role is to provide a safe, supportive space, listening differently than friends and family do. We will explore what you are experiencing, identify triggers, and help guide you towards solutions and healing. My role is to support and encourage you through a process of thoughtful intention to further self insight.
Services offered in Alabama (In Person or Telehealth) and Texas (Telehealth). Each client has their own unique needs that are important to understand. My work includes supporting clients struggling with attachment difficulties, relational trauma, and depression/anxiety related to these factors. In Individual Therapy, my role is to provide a safe, supportive space, listening differently than friends and family do. We will explore what you are experiencing, identify triggers, and help guide you towards solutions and healing. My role is to support and encourage you through a process of thoughtful intention to further self insight.
(205) 272-6907 View (205) 272-6907
Photo of Jessica Grogan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Jessica Grogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S
Verified Verified
There is no shortage of reasons one might begin the search for counseling. You might be experiencing anxiety and depression. You could be dealing with loss and grief. Perhaps you are going through a season of change or struggling to navigate a relationship. You might simply be looking to grow in your mental health. Whether you know exactly what is going on or you need help figuring it out, seeking out counseling is a brave step. Counseling offers a safe place to take the many parts of our lives and piece them together to make a clearer picture.
There is no shortage of reasons one might begin the search for counseling. You might be experiencing anxiety and depression. You could be dealing with loss and grief. Perhaps you are going through a season of change or struggling to navigate a relationship. You might simply be looking to grow in your mental health. Whether you know exactly what is going on or you need help figuring it out, seeking out counseling is a brave step. Counseling offers a safe place to take the many parts of our lives and piece them together to make a clearer picture.
(205) 890-2549 View (205) 890-2549
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.