Adoption Therapists in Milton, FL

Photo of Annalisa H. Marcantonio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annalisa H. Marcantonio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Milton, FL 32583
I am a neurodivergent therapist, a military spouse, and a former GS civilian with the Army. I bring years of heartfelt experience with military and aviation cultures, understanding the profound impact of frequent relocations, absences, toxic environments, and enduring challenges like PTSD and anxiety. My clients deeply appreciate the confidentiality I offer as they seek to process their experiences without having to explain any jargon. I also extend my support to neurodiverse clients, especially those with ADHD, helping them tackle their anxiety and overwhelm as they navigate their unique challenges and communication styles.
I am a neurodivergent therapist, a military spouse, and a former GS civilian with the Army. I bring years of heartfelt experience with military and aviation cultures, understanding the profound impact of frequent relocations, absences, toxic environments, and enduring challenges like PTSD and anxiety. My clients deeply appreciate the confidentiality I offer as they seek to process their experiences without having to explain any jargon. I also extend my support to neurodiverse clients, especially those with ADHD, helping them tackle their anxiety and overwhelm as they navigate their unique challenges and communication styles.
(850) 669-8857 View (850) 669-8857
Photo of Carl E Byrd, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Carl E Byrd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Milton, FL 32570
Every one of us are challenged with issues, require various needs, and have goals we hope to achieve. My desire is to partner with you in the journey of life and traverse through these issues, discover fulfillment to needs, and achieve goals successfully. Doing life alone does not have to be an option and the acknowledgement of the need for assistance displays strength. I am here to provide you the support, encouragement, and truthful accountability needed to bring individuals and families to a position of understanding and success.
Every one of us are challenged with issues, require various needs, and have goals we hope to achieve. My desire is to partner with you in the journey of life and traverse through these issues, discover fulfillment to needs, and achieve goals successfully. Doing life alone does not have to be an option and the acknowledgement of the need for assistance displays strength. I am here to provide you the support, encouragement, and truthful accountability needed to bring individuals and families to a position of understanding and success.
(850) 790-4976 View (850) 790-4976
Photo of Brian E. Willis, MS, LMHC, CPP, Counselor
Brian E. Willis
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CPP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Milton, FL 32570
Mr. Willis' practice is focused on providing compassionate mental health care to children, adolescents, adults, and their families. He is recognized as a Subject Matter Expert Witness for Infant Mental Health and Mental and Behavioral Health for children and families. He specializes in working with relationship problems, conflict resolution, communication skills, parenting skills, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders. As as a devoted husband and father of 21 years, he is equipped to help families improve parenting skills and relational functioning.
Mr. Willis' practice is focused on providing compassionate mental health care to children, adolescents, adults, and their families. He is recognized as a Subject Matter Expert Witness for Infant Mental Health and Mental and Behavioral Health for children and families. He specializes in working with relationship problems, conflict resolution, communication skills, parenting skills, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders. As as a devoted husband and father of 21 years, he is equipped to help families improve parenting skills and relational functioning.
(850) 724-4085 View (850) 724-4085
Photo of Deborah Cihonski, PhD, NCSP, ITDS, Psychologist
Deborah Cihonski
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, ITDS
Verified Verified
Milton, FL 32570
I offer a caring and healing place for children and families to find solutions and hope. In practice for over 30 years, I offer unique, highly effective horse-assisted therapy in Milton, FL, specializing in adolescent & preteen girls and women. Our property connects to many trails in the Blackwater Forest where patients can experience amazing, healing natural beauty and peace. I also see children, families, and couples in my office in Gulf Breeze. I offer the resources & support needed to help your child and family find happiness, confidence, and success.
I offer a caring and healing place for children and families to find solutions and hope. In practice for over 30 years, I offer unique, highly effective horse-assisted therapy in Milton, FL, specializing in adolescent & preteen girls and women. Our property connects to many trails in the Blackwater Forest where patients can experience amazing, healing natural beauty and peace. I also see children, families, and couples in my office in Gulf Breeze. I offer the resources & support needed to help your child and family find happiness, confidence, and success.
(850) 818-9541 View (850) 818-9541
Photo of Kinya Nicole Williams, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Kinya Nicole Williams
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, FL 32570  (Online Only)
I am a licensed mental health counselor who specializes in work with children, adolescents and adults of all ages. I will work with you and/or your loved ones to address any concerns with managing the effects of depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, divorce, grief and loss and various other challenges while helping you maintain a productive life style.
I am a licensed mental health counselor who specializes in work with children, adolescents and adults of all ages. I will work with you and/or your loved ones to address any concerns with managing the effects of depression, anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, divorce, grief and loss and various other challenges while helping you maintain a productive life style.
(850) 695-1014 View (850) 695-1014
Photo of Heather McGovern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather McGovern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, FL 32570
Hi, I'm Heather, pronouns she/they! I'm an LCSW and I have 10+ years of experience providing therapy to people who are feeling stuck, unheard, and/or trapped within our system of social norms and unrealistic expectations. I identify as queer and have worked with clients in all stages of recognizing their queerness. I also have experience working with those who have experienced trauma whether due to their sexuality, abusive relationships, upbringing, or otherwise.
Hi, I'm Heather, pronouns she/they! I'm an LCSW and I have 10+ years of experience providing therapy to people who are feeling stuck, unheard, and/or trapped within our system of social norms and unrealistic expectations. I identify as queer and have worked with clients in all stages of recognizing their queerness. I also have experience working with those who have experienced trauma whether due to their sexuality, abusive relationships, upbringing, or otherwise.
(850) 813-5529 View (850) 813-5529
Photo of Sandra Cornell, LMHC, Counselor
Sandra Cornell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milton, FL 32583
Hi, I am Sandi. Have you ever felt that some things in life that have happened to you have affected you so much that you can no longer enjoy life and the thought of going to therapy scares you? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn? You are not alone. I am a trauma specialist who has compassion and understanding. My approach to clients is Client Centered and Trauma Informed Care. I help clients to understand how to make decisons that will empower them. I provide Direct Neurofeedback, which has been proven to help anxiety, depression, and traumatic brain injury to my practice.
Hi, I am Sandi. Have you ever felt that some things in life that have happened to you have affected you so much that you can no longer enjoy life and the thought of going to therapy scares you? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn? You are not alone. I am a trauma specialist who has compassion and understanding. My approach to clients is Client Centered and Trauma Informed Care. I help clients to understand how to make decisons that will empower them. I provide Direct Neurofeedback, which has been proven to help anxiety, depression, and traumatic brain injury to my practice.
(352) 670-3356 View (352) 670-3356
Photo of Sarah Ashton Morrell, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Ashton Morrell
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Milton, FL 32583
Starting your mental health journey can be overwhelming. Sometimes it is a struggle to know where to begin or find the words to describe how you feel. We can tuck trauma away like a book on a bookshelf waiting to be picked up and read. Trauma is not always associated with war. It can be something that can be seen as seemingly small, like growing up in a lonely household, or it can be seen in surviving a car accident. Wherever you are in your life, whether it is struggling to begin a new career, having a major life event, or maybe it is time to address your social anxiety, I would be honored to extend a helping hand.
Starting your mental health journey can be overwhelming. Sometimes it is a struggle to know where to begin or find the words to describe how you feel. We can tuck trauma away like a book on a bookshelf waiting to be picked up and read. Trauma is not always associated with war. It can be something that can be seen as seemingly small, like growing up in a lonely household, or it can be seen in surviving a car accident. Wherever you are in your life, whether it is struggling to begin a new career, having a major life event, or maybe it is time to address your social anxiety, I would be honored to extend a helping hand.
(850) 790-4640 View (850) 790-4640

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Regan Hager, MA, DWCF, LMHC, Counselor
Regan Hager
Counselor, MA, DWCF, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pace, FL 32571
I work with adults and families, and am certified as an Adoption Competent Therapist with training from FSU's Harris Institute for Early Childhood Development.
I am deeply committed to helping individuals heal their emotional wounds, reshape their thought patterns, and transform their lives. My work with clients from diverse backgrounds has taught me the importance of providing compassionate, non-judgmental care. You don’t have to face your challenges alone; you deserve to experience all the good that life has to offer, and I’m here to support you on that journey. Together, we can turn off your inner autopilot and help you reclaim your life.
I work with adults and families, and am certified as an Adoption Competent Therapist with training from FSU's Harris Institute for Early Childhood Development.
I am deeply committed to helping individuals heal their emotional wounds, reshape their thought patterns, and transform their lives. My work with clients from diverse backgrounds has taught me the importance of providing compassionate, non-judgmental care. You don’t have to face your challenges alone; you deserve to experience all the good that life has to offer, and I’m here to support you on that journey. Together, we can turn off your inner autopilot and help you reclaim your life.
(850) 780-0271 View (850) 780-0271
Photo of Ruth Trigonis-Quesada, LCSW, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Trigonis-Quesada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pace, FL 32571  (Online Only)
I believe everyone has the opportunity to change and better themselves, develop new skills, and to move forward.  I am here to listen to your needs and provide the most beneficial, effective experience possible to help you achieve your goals. There are situations that can make you feel overwhelmed and unable to move forward. During my career I have been able to help others develop new skills to grow and become confident. I like to work with parents and adolescents and to help them develop positive relationships.  I have interest in individuals and families dealing with unexpected medical conditions, losses and traumatic events.
I believe everyone has the opportunity to change and better themselves, develop new skills, and to move forward.  I am here to listen to your needs and provide the most beneficial, effective experience possible to help you achieve your goals. There are situations that can make you feel overwhelmed and unable to move forward. During my career I have been able to help others develop new skills to grow and become confident. I like to work with parents and adolescents and to help them develop positive relationships.  I have interest in individuals and families dealing with unexpected medical conditions, losses and traumatic events.
(850) 374-5153 View (850) 374-5153
Photo of Ashley Pennewill, LCSW, Counselor
Ashley Pennewill
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pace, FL 32571
Let me break it down folks, no need to waste time. I'm doing something different that's designed to get you healed and cool with your life, whether that means change or not, fast. It's the fastest way I know, and it's not complicated. You learn the whole thing in the longer first session. Visit ashleypennewill.com/blog, or the Blog Archives at ashleypennewill.com/archives. There's so much there that can help you, and it's free. If you FEEL a yes or even a curiosity, I'd definitely invest in that first session. If it's a fit, there's nothing like it, and your life will never be the same. I'm serious! So cool.
Let me break it down folks, no need to waste time. I'm doing something different that's designed to get you healed and cool with your life, whether that means change or not, fast. It's the fastest way I know, and it's not complicated. You learn the whole thing in the longer first session. Visit ashleypennewill.com/blog, or the Blog Archives at ashleypennewill.com/archives. There's so much there that can help you, and it's free. If you FEEL a yes or even a curiosity, I'd definitely invest in that first session. If it's a fit, there's nothing like it, and your life will never be the same. I'm serious! So cool.
(850) 724-9725 View (850) 724-9725
Photo of Kirsten Goffena, LPC, LMHC, NBCC, RPT-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirsten Goffena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, NBCC, RPT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Navarre, FL 32566
All people are born with the capacity to love, to have meaningful relationships, and to experience deep joy. But, all too often, something happens when we are very young and we disconnect from that original sense of peace and belonging. We may spend our whole lives trying to make our way back. My approach to psychotherapy will help you heal the old wounds, cope with the challenges of today, and create a fulfilling future for yourself. If you're tired of living with the ghosts of your past and ready to take back your life and your innate joy, I invite you to reach out to me for a free consultation.
All people are born with the capacity to love, to have meaningful relationships, and to experience deep joy. But, all too often, something happens when we are very young and we disconnect from that original sense of peace and belonging. We may spend our whole lives trying to make our way back. My approach to psychotherapy will help you heal the old wounds, cope with the challenges of today, and create a fulfilling future for yourself. If you're tired of living with the ghosts of your past and ready to take back your life and your innate joy, I invite you to reach out to me for a free consultation.
(850) 204-0725 View (850) 204-0725
Photo of Christina Ropp - Wild Thistle Therapy, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Wild Thistle Therapy
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Navarre, FL 32566
Currently accepting clients! If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, military-related issues, family, or past trauma, I would love to help. Maybe you’ve been to therapy in the past, but didn’t see the results you were hoping for? I am passionate about working with teen and adult clients to help uncover how their past may have contributed to current relationship and/or life stressors, as well as learning new ways to help overcome challenges and challenge old ways of thinking that are no longer serving you.
Currently accepting clients! If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, military-related issues, family, or past trauma, I would love to help. Maybe you’ve been to therapy in the past, but didn’t see the results you were hoping for? I am passionate about working with teen and adult clients to help uncover how their past may have contributed to current relationship and/or life stressors, as well as learning new ways to help overcome challenges and challenge old ways of thinking that are no longer serving you.
(850) 404-1191 View (850) 404-1191
Photo of Brooke L Harrison, LMHC, Counselor
Brooke L Harrison
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Navarre, FL 32566
Welcome, I am passionate about your potential to see change. I have noticed often people accept a harmful pattern, negative emotion or unrealized potential as a permanent part of their lives. I believe change is not only possible, but attainable. If one puts in the effort you can gain insight, recognize patterns, and start on your journey towards change. Your goal may be feeling more balanced or it could be for your child to display improved focus or self esteem. Let us partner together to make pivotal transitions in your life.
Welcome, I am passionate about your potential to see change. I have noticed often people accept a harmful pattern, negative emotion or unrealized potential as a permanent part of their lives. I believe change is not only possible, but attainable. If one puts in the effort you can gain insight, recognize patterns, and start on your journey towards change. Your goal may be feeling more balanced or it could be for your child to display improved focus or self esteem. Let us partner together to make pivotal transitions in your life.
(850) 820-0308 View (850) 820-0308

Online Therapists

Photo of Lisa Herring, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Herring
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Panama City, FL 32401
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents and children with Anxiety, ADHD, Adoption issues, Depression, and Grief, and Substance Use disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida (MH 16403). I received my Master’s Degree in Psychology and and Clinical Counseling from Troy University and have been a clinical counselor since 2015.
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents and children with Anxiety, ADHD, Adoption issues, Depression, and Grief, and Substance Use disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida (MH 16403). I received my Master’s Degree in Psychology and and Clinical Counseling from Troy University and have been a clinical counselor since 2015.
(786) 767-6702 View (786) 767-6702
Photo of Cathleen Menda, LMHC, Counselor
Cathleen Menda
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32514
I have a long history working with adults and children with trauma related issues, especially those involved in the Foster Care System. I have a special interest working with Adoptive families and I am trained as an Adoption Competent Therapist. I can assist with all types of individual and family issues. I believe counseling should be in an environment that is comfortable and assessable to those I serve, so my services can be conducted in the home, office, or telehealth.
I have a long history working with adults and children with trauma related issues, especially those involved in the Foster Care System. I have a special interest working with Adoptive families and I am trained as an Adoption Competent Therapist. I can assist with all types of individual and family issues. I believe counseling should be in an environment that is comfortable and assessable to those I serve, so my services can be conducted in the home, office, or telehealth.
(850) 331-0890 View (850) 331-0890
Photo of Sharon R Thompson, PhD, NCC, LMHC,  , Counselor
Sharon R Thompson
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LMHC,
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pensacola, FL 32514
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, life transitions, and adoption.
Life is tough...and getting tougher. Sometimes, it can be hard to cope. Sometimes, things can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, you feel like you are just barely hanging on. Maybe you have had a lifetime of trauma that has finally caught up with you. Maybe you are a parent whose child is on your very last nerve. Maybe you are struggling in your relationships. Maybe, in the midst of all this, you have lost hope. Maybe, you have even lost you. Wherever you are today, I would like to help. I bring 25 years of counseling experience into each session and I am still learning. I can't wait to help you on your journey!
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, life transitions, and adoption.
Life is tough...and getting tougher. Sometimes, it can be hard to cope. Sometimes, things can feel overwhelming. Sometimes, you feel like you are just barely hanging on. Maybe you have had a lifetime of trauma that has finally caught up with you. Maybe you are a parent whose child is on your very last nerve. Maybe you are struggling in your relationships. Maybe, in the midst of all this, you have lost hope. Maybe, you have even lost you. Wherever you are today, I would like to help. I bring 25 years of counseling experience into each session and I am still learning. I can't wait to help you on your journey!
(850) 601-8971 View (850) 601-8971
Photo of Denise Arrington, MA, RMHCI
Denise Arrington
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gulf Breeze, FL 32563
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily work with children and adolescents, but I'm open to clients of all ages. I have worked with clients on a variety of challenges - grief, bullying, post-traumatic stress, low self-worth, substance abuse, self-harm, adjusting to adoption, identity development, religious hurt, and more. I am currently contracted with Lukas Counseling Co. (formerly called Opulent VIP, LLC), which enables me to take a broad range of insurance and to schedule sessions in your community, at your home, or virtually. During in-person sessions, I follow all CDC guidelines, and I have also been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
I primarily work with children and adolescents, but I'm open to clients of all ages. I have worked with clients on a variety of challenges - grief, bullying, post-traumatic stress, low self-worth, substance abuse, self-harm, adjusting to adoption, identity development, religious hurt, and more. I am currently contracted with Lukas Counseling Co. (formerly called Opulent VIP, LLC), which enables me to take a broad range of insurance and to schedule sessions in your community, at your home, or virtually. During in-person sessions, I follow all CDC guidelines, and I have also been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
(850) 290-0454 View (850) 290-0454
Photo of Sarah Williams, MSW
Sarah Williams
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crestview, FL 32536
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting difficulties, foster care, and adoption-related issues.
When life begins to feel overwhelming, having someone in your corner is helpful. I would be honored to provide support as you navigate life’s challenges. A therapeutic relationship is of the utmost importance and I strive to create a safe, welcoming environment for you to begin your healing journey.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, parenting difficulties, foster care, and adoption-related issues.
When life begins to feel overwhelming, having someone in your corner is helpful. I would be honored to provide support as you navigate life’s challenges. A therapeutic relationship is of the utmost importance and I strive to create a safe, welcoming environment for you to begin your healing journey.
(850) 468-3466 View (850) 468-3466
Photo of Leslie Fuller, MSW
Leslie Fuller
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Niceville, FL 32578
As an adoptive parent, I have personal and professional experience navigating both foster care and adoption.
I offer a strengths-based approach to counseling and seek to help my clients recognize their own self-worth. I offer a warm, compassionate, and calming presence and aspire for my clients to feel seen, heard, and valued. I utilize a holistic approach to counseling and incorporate strategies that consider the whole person: emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. As a TBRI Practitioner and Making Sense of Your Worth Facilitator, I love helping people work on building healthy connections in all of their relationships.
As an adoptive parent, I have personal and professional experience navigating both foster care and adoption.
I offer a strengths-based approach to counseling and seek to help my clients recognize their own self-worth. I offer a warm, compassionate, and calming presence and aspire for my clients to feel seen, heard, and valued. I utilize a holistic approach to counseling and incorporate strategies that consider the whole person: emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually. As a TBRI Practitioner and Making Sense of Your Worth Facilitator, I love helping people work on building healthy connections in all of their relationships.
(850) 518-7073 View (850) 518-7073
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.