Adoption Therapists in North Highlands, CA

Photo of Lisa Bove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Lisa Bove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Highlands, CA 95660
Hi. I’m Lisa Bove, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Christian minister living in Southern California. I have been practicing as an LCSW for 29 years and have been an ordained minister for longer. In my practice I work with people of all religious backgrounds and have been an active participant in many LGBTQI+ religious congregations. I approach therapy from a holistic and client-centered perspective. I love speaking with people, getting to know them, and helping them realize their strengths and work through their challenges.
Hi. I’m Lisa Bove, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Christian minister living in Southern California. I have been practicing as an LCSW for 29 years and have been an ordained minister for longer. In my practice I work with people of all religious backgrounds and have been an active participant in many LGBTQI+ religious congregations. I approach therapy from a holistic and client-centered perspective. I love speaking with people, getting to know them, and helping them realize their strengths and work through their challenges.
(657) 571-2518 View (657) 571-2518
Photo of Nicole Metscher, Psychologist in North Highlands, CA
Nicole Metscher
Psychologist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Highlands, CA 95660
Not accepting new clients
I offer free email consultations before meeting with you face-to-face, because I want to ensure you are comfortable from the beginning. Although we may not have control of every experience, I believe that we inherently want a sense of belonging. It is my goal to inspire individuals by helping him/her process past and current events that may be hindering their ability to move forward. I encourage you to send an email or give my a call at any time. I promise to give you the attention and trust you deserve, because you are worth it.
I offer free email consultations before meeting with you face-to-face, because I want to ensure you are comfortable from the beginning. Although we may not have control of every experience, I believe that we inherently want a sense of belonging. It is my goal to inspire individuals by helping him/her process past and current events that may be hindering their ability to move forward. I encourage you to send an email or give my a call at any time. I promise to give you the attention and trust you deserve, because you are worth it.
(916) 678-0921 View (916) 678-0921

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Elisa Louizos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Elisa Louizos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families: working on the frontline of CPS assessing risk and nurturing family resilience, working in adoption agencies to help families create and maintain lifelong connections, and providing in-home therapeutic parenting services to struggling families.
I imagine you're here because you feel like something needs to change. It's reassuring to know it's never too late to ignite curiosity about what's happening, develop closer, healthier family connections, and learn to assert yourself more successfully as a parent. It takes courage to let go of what's limiting you to make room for a happier life. I can support you and your child(ren) through this process by identifying, understanding, and reworking ineffective patterns and building new skills to reduce conflict and create a better life for your family.
I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families: working on the frontline of CPS assessing risk and nurturing family resilience, working in adoption agencies to help families create and maintain lifelong connections, and providing in-home therapeutic parenting services to struggling families.
I imagine you're here because you feel like something needs to change. It's reassuring to know it's never too late to ignite curiosity about what's happening, develop closer, healthier family connections, and learn to assert yourself more successfully as a parent. It takes courage to let go of what's limiting you to make room for a happier life. I can support you and your child(ren) through this process by identifying, understanding, and reworking ineffective patterns and building new skills to reduce conflict and create a better life for your family.
(916) 884-6156 View (916) 884-6156
Photo of Debra McJimsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Debra McJimsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95747
I specialize adoption issues, including counseling adult adoptees, birthparents, adoptive parents and adoptive children including attachment, adjustment, unplanned pregnancy, multiracial family building, and managing stress due to waiting and uncertainties of the adoption process.
Are you looking for a therapist that is a good fit for you? Searching for the right therapist is challenging! This information may give you a sense of what it would be like to work together. Feel free to call or email if you have any questions. I offer a free telephone consultation, and offer excellent referrals if I am not the right fit for your particular circumstance. I work with individuals and couples and children on a wide range of issues including anxiety, perfectionism, support through life-transistions or re-connecting/ rekindling loving feelings.
I specialize adoption issues, including counseling adult adoptees, birthparents, adoptive parents and adoptive children including attachment, adjustment, unplanned pregnancy, multiracial family building, and managing stress due to waiting and uncertainties of the adoption process.
Are you looking for a therapist that is a good fit for you? Searching for the right therapist is challenging! This information may give you a sense of what it would be like to work together. Feel free to call or email if you have any questions. I offer a free telephone consultation, and offer excellent referrals if I am not the right fit for your particular circumstance. I work with individuals and couples and children on a wide range of issues including anxiety, perfectionism, support through life-transistions or re-connecting/ rekindling loving feelings.
(916) 404-4273 View (916) 404-4273
Photo of D. Meghan French, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Highlands, CA
D. Meghan French
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I also specialize in families who've come together through adoption.
Welcome! I appreciate you stopping at my page. Stress, depression, anxiety and grief can rob us of the energy to enjoy life and stay connected with the people around us. I became a therapist in the hopes of helping people find peace, happiness and wellbeing. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment wherein you can share your story and we can work together to find meaningful and lasting change.
I also specialize in families who've come together through adoption.
Welcome! I appreciate you stopping at my page. Stress, depression, anxiety and grief can rob us of the energy to enjoy life and stay connected with the people around us. I became a therapist in the hopes of helping people find peace, happiness and wellbeing. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment wherein you can share your story and we can work together to find meaningful and lasting change.
(916) 694-1840 View (916) 694-1840
Photo of The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95826
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
(916) 269-3522 View (916) 269-3522
Photo of Debra A. Wiegel, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Debra A. Wiegel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
Parents say they are grateful to have a therapist who is compassionate and direct, understanding that adoption is the solution; trauma is the problem.
I believe we all have a wise woman or wise man inside us who tells us our truth. Most of us have been conditioned to disregard this inner voice. My goal is to ask the questions that enable you to know what is true for you and to provide the support you need to act on this truth.
Parents say they are grateful to have a therapist who is compassionate and direct, understanding that adoption is the solution; trauma is the problem.
I believe we all have a wise woman or wise man inside us who tells us our truth. Most of us have been conditioned to disregard this inner voice. My goal is to ask the questions that enable you to know what is true for you and to provide the support you need to act on this truth.
(530) 408-5207 View (530) 408-5207
Photo of Tracy Birkinbine, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Highlands, CA
Tracy Birkinbine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661
Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers non-judgmental, compassionate, and safe counseling to adolescents and adults. I know it is hard to decide to seek out counseling, so I am sensitive to the difficulty it is opening up to someone new. I specialize in assisting individuals dealing with life changes, grief and loss, career changes, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and understanding the wide range of emotions facing infertility and adoption. I aim to be an interactive, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapist.
Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers non-judgmental, compassionate, and safe counseling to adolescents and adults. I know it is hard to decide to seek out counseling, so I am sensitive to the difficulty it is opening up to someone new. I specialize in assisting individuals dealing with life changes, grief and loss, career changes, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and understanding the wide range of emotions facing infertility and adoption. I aim to be an interactive, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapist.
(657) 837-5469 View (657) 837-5469
Photo of Sarah Sims, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Sarah Sims
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95747  (Online Only)
Life can feel unbelievably challenging and overwhelming at times and you don't have to do it alone. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, are struggling to cope, or need someone to talk to, I can help and am here to support you. I have worked with individuals and families who have experienced complex trauma, loss, adoption, and other challenges. Trauma can impact many areas of our lives including our relationships, our ability to cope, how we function, and how we see and navigate the world. I am currently available for online appointments only.
Life can feel unbelievably challenging and overwhelming at times and you don't have to do it alone. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, are struggling to cope, or need someone to talk to, I can help and am here to support you. I have worked with individuals and families who have experienced complex trauma, loss, adoption, and other challenges. Trauma can impact many areas of our lives including our relationships, our ability to cope, how we function, and how we see and navigate the world. I am currently available for online appointments only.
(530) 464-1423 View (530) 464-1423
Photo of Kristen McQuary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Kristen McQuary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
I have worked with clients who face infertility and are navigating the adoption process.
I specialize in counseling adolescents and adults, although I am not limited to that demographic. I also enjoy working with couples. I help clients discover that they have the power within them to overcome obstacles, to express their needs and wants appropriately and make the choice to reach their goals.
I have worked with clients who face infertility and are navigating the adoption process.
I specialize in counseling adolescents and adults, although I am not limited to that demographic. I also enjoy working with couples. I help clients discover that they have the power within them to overcome obstacles, to express their needs and wants appropriately and make the choice to reach their goals.
(916) 634-1209 View (916) 634-1209
Photo of Adrienne Hegr, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Adrienne Hegr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95747
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Do you struggle with anxiety that takes control and keeps you from being the best version of you? Coping with grief after placing a child for adoption? I have a passion for supporting those who want to be unstuck from unhelpful patterns, and to cope with anxiety, grief and depression. I particularly thrive in working with individuals who are recovering from narcissistic abuse and a traumatic upbringing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Do you struggle with anxiety that takes control and keeps you from being the best version of you? Coping with grief after placing a child for adoption? I have a passion for supporting those who want to be unstuck from unhelpful patterns, and to cope with anxiety, grief and depression. I particularly thrive in working with individuals who are recovering from narcissistic abuse and a traumatic upbringing.
(530) 656-5288 View (530) 656-5288
Photo of Trisha Stewart, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Trisha Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
Trisha Stewart, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, (LMFT), works with individuals, families, couples, young adults, and teens 16+ and adoption issues. She understands how debilitating anxiety and depression can be and collaborates with you to identify your needs and develop a plan for a return to health and well-being. Trisha has 30 years of experience working in community mental health and 12 years as a licensed professional. She works well with individuals experiencing, depression, anxiety, anger, grief and loss, parenting, and attachment.
Trisha Stewart, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, (LMFT), works with individuals, families, couples, young adults, and teens 16+ and adoption issues. She understands how debilitating anxiety and depression can be and collaborates with you to identify your needs and develop a plan for a return to health and well-being. Trisha has 30 years of experience working in community mental health and 12 years as a licensed professional. She works well with individuals experiencing, depression, anxiety, anger, grief and loss, parenting, and attachment.
(323) 403-0265 View (323) 403-0265
Photo of Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean, Psychologist in North Highlands, CA
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre-adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
(650) 719-1562 View (650) 719-1562
Photo of Everson Psychotherapy, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Everson Psychotherapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Roseville, CA 95678
Waitlist for new clients
I commend you for searching for help! My empathetic, caring, and encouraging approach along with my education, specialized training, and life experiences continues to be of help to most people, while having a niche with tween/teen boys, men, veterans, couples, and parents. My life experience with adoption, military life, leading non-profits, marital challenges, men's issues, raising teens, overcoming addictions, and struggles with faith may also help you. Training to help with trauma, addictions, depression, and anxiety with Brainspotting and EMDR can provide the healing you and your loved one's have been seeking for some time.
I commend you for searching for help! My empathetic, caring, and encouraging approach along with my education, specialized training, and life experiences continues to be of help to most people, while having a niche with tween/teen boys, men, veterans, couples, and parents. My life experience with adoption, military life, leading non-profits, marital challenges, men's issues, raising teens, overcoming addictions, and struggles with faith may also help you. Training to help with trauma, addictions, depression, and anxiety with Brainspotting and EMDR can provide the healing you and your loved one's have been seeking for some time.
(916) 597-1107 View (916) 597-1107
Photo of Bonnie Wagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Bonnie Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834
I offer a wide variety of Therapy for the following: Grief/Loss, (including pets) Divorce, Custody Issues, Infertility, Depression, Anxiety, Abuse, Adoption, Attachment, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Blended Family Problems, Relationship Challenges, Difficult children/teen behaviors at home and/or school, ADHD, Family History of Drug/Alcohol Addictions, Self Esteem, Parenting, Grandparents raising Grandchildren, and more.
Hello, I'm Bonnie Wagner, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with individual adults, couples, children/teens (birth to 18 years) and families, for over 25 years. I have a great deal of experience as a therapist, helping people develop treatment goals which assist them in achieving the most optimal and positive outcomes for themselves.
I offer a wide variety of Therapy for the following: Grief/Loss, (including pets) Divorce, Custody Issues, Infertility, Depression, Anxiety, Abuse, Adoption, Attachment, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Blended Family Problems, Relationship Challenges, Difficult children/teen behaviors at home and/or school, ADHD, Family History of Drug/Alcohol Addictions, Self Esteem, Parenting, Grandparents raising Grandchildren, and more.
Hello, I'm Bonnie Wagner, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with individual adults, couples, children/teens (birth to 18 years) and families, for over 25 years. I have a great deal of experience as a therapist, helping people develop treatment goals which assist them in achieving the most optimal and positive outcomes for themselves.
(916) 546-1504 View (916) 546-1504
Photo of Jennifer Kuchler, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Jennifer Kuchler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Citrus Heights, CA 95621
My areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, anger management, social skills, self-esteem, family dynamics, personal growth, high-stress environments, adoption, and medical patient/caregiver support.
My goal in sessions is for clients to feel self-aware, empowered, and grounded in who they are to better connect with the person they want to become. This therapeutic approach can help address anxiety symptoms, lack of identity, pressured performance, depression, and lack of communication skills. I, Jennifer Kuchler LMFT 138153, am committed to creating an environment for clients to feel safe and comfortable to open up about difficult topics.
My areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, anger management, social skills, self-esteem, family dynamics, personal growth, high-stress environments, adoption, and medical patient/caregiver support.
My goal in sessions is for clients to feel self-aware, empowered, and grounded in who they are to better connect with the person they want to become. This therapeutic approach can help address anxiety symptoms, lack of identity, pressured performance, depression, and lack of communication skills. I, Jennifer Kuchler LMFT 138153, am committed to creating an environment for clients to feel safe and comfortable to open up about difficult topics.
(714) 463-1894 View (714) 463-1894
Photo of Dania M Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Dania M Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95814
I have worked with children and families for over ten years, most of which was in wraparound supporting family reunification, adoption and emancipation for children in child welfare, adoption and juvenile justice system.
Have you been feeling depressed, anxious or just overwhelmed with life? Are you ready for change? My goal as a therapist is to inspire motivation and purpose, and to support individuals and families in reaching their goals. when circumstances seem impossible, my aim is to help you find the tools you need to overcome life's challenges. I work diligently to empower individuals to look inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose. Watching people grow, while discovering their true selves and their life potential, is a very rewarding experience for me.
I have worked with children and families for over ten years, most of which was in wraparound supporting family reunification, adoption and emancipation for children in child welfare, adoption and juvenile justice system.
Have you been feeling depressed, anxious or just overwhelmed with life? Are you ready for change? My goal as a therapist is to inspire motivation and purpose, and to support individuals and families in reaching their goals. when circumstances seem impossible, my aim is to help you find the tools you need to overcome life's challenges. I work diligently to empower individuals to look inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose. Watching people grow, while discovering their true selves and their life potential, is a very rewarding experience for me.
(424) 379-5249 View (424) 379-5249
Photo of Bre Canclini, Occupational Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Bre Canclini
Occupational Therapist, MFT -T, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Is your child having trouble in school? Trouble focusing? Have outbursts? Have a hard time regulating their body or emotions? Are they always on the move? Trauma-informed occupational therapists (OT) are uniquely equipped to support these children and those who are from a variety of backgrounds. These include those who have experienced trauma, high-stress experiences, tested positive for drugs/ alcohol when born, medical trauma, exposure to abuse, or community violence. Especially those who have experienced attachment wounding through separation from their parents (foster care, adoption, or due to parent medical challenges/ jail).
Is your child having trouble in school? Trouble focusing? Have outbursts? Have a hard time regulating their body or emotions? Are they always on the move? Trauma-informed occupational therapists (OT) are uniquely equipped to support these children and those who are from a variety of backgrounds. These include those who have experienced trauma, high-stress experiences, tested positive for drugs/ alcohol when born, medical trauma, exposure to abuse, or community violence. Especially those who have experienced attachment wounding through separation from their parents (foster care, adoption, or due to parent medical challenges/ jail).
(916) 836-2902 View (916) 836-2902
Photo of Traci Bianchi Templin, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Traci Bianchi Templin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I am a TAC-Certified Therapist (Training for Adoption Competency- Center for Adoption Support and Education).
Welcome! I offer support for your journey to a balanced, peaceful, and happy life. I have a passion for guiding clients through their journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness in life. I view therapy as a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. I support my client's unique individuality, life experience, and their personal story. I value openness, acceptance, and laughter, and I strongly believe that we are all in a lifelong process of growth and change. Using empathy and compassion, I provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns.
I am a TAC-Certified Therapist (Training for Adoption Competency- Center for Adoption Support and Education).
Welcome! I offer support for your journey to a balanced, peaceful, and happy life. I have a passion for guiding clients through their journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness in life. I view therapy as a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. I support my client's unique individuality, life experience, and their personal story. I value openness, acceptance, and laughter, and I strongly believe that we are all in a lifelong process of growth and change. Using empathy and compassion, I provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns.
(916) 727-6454 View (916) 727-6454
Photo of Sankofa Holistic Counseling - Teletherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Highlands, CA
Sankofa Holistic Counseling - Teletherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811  (Online Only)
I have received specialized training and have years of experience treating Sexual Abuse/Assault, PTSD, Marital Issues, Sexual Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Ante/Postpartum Depression, LGBTQ Issues, Family Issues, Foster Care/Adoption Issues, Veterans/Active Duty, Women’s Issues, and Attachment/Codependency Issues.
“You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.” My clinical experience includes working with adults, children, adolescents or families who are struggling with challenging behaviors, toxic relationships and/or complex emotions. These struggles can cause profound sadness that physically hurts inside of you. I specialize in flushing out negative thought patterns and working through traumatic experiences that keeps individuals, families and couples feeling struck in an emotional vortex and trapped in recycling toxic behaviors. By working together, we can unlock your courage to ask. Everything you need to heal is inside of you!
I have received specialized training and have years of experience treating Sexual Abuse/Assault, PTSD, Marital Issues, Sexual Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Trauma, Domestic Violence, Ante/Postpartum Depression, LGBTQ Issues, Family Issues, Foster Care/Adoption Issues, Veterans/Active Duty, Women’s Issues, and Attachment/Codependency Issues.
“You get in life what you have the courage to ask for.” My clinical experience includes working with adults, children, adolescents or families who are struggling with challenging behaviors, toxic relationships and/or complex emotions. These struggles can cause profound sadness that physically hurts inside of you. I specialize in flushing out negative thought patterns and working through traumatic experiences that keeps individuals, families and couples feeling struck in an emotional vortex and trapped in recycling toxic behaviors. By working together, we can unlock your courage to ask. Everything you need to heal is inside of you!
(916) 439-8456 View (916) 439-8456

See more therapy options for North Highlands

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.