Adoption Therapists in Orlando, FL

Photo of Latino Leadership Behavioral Health, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Latino Leadership Behavioral Health
Counselor, LMHC, CRT, ACT
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32825
Are team specializes in ADHD in children and adults, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, adoption specialist just to name a few.
I am the Clinical Director of Latino Leadership. At Latino Leadership the we are proud to announce the services in Mental Health Services, ABA Analyses, Santiago and Friends (Family Center for Autism), Free Clinic, Free Medications, Special Education School and Community Outreach services for all ages. For more than 17 years Latino Leadership staff have been committed to the advancement of the Central Florida Latino community and serving individuals of all cultures who live in our community.
Are team specializes in ADHD in children and adults, addiction issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, adoption specialist just to name a few.
I am the Clinical Director of Latino Leadership. At Latino Leadership the we are proud to announce the services in Mental Health Services, ABA Analyses, Santiago and Friends (Family Center for Autism), Free Clinic, Free Medications, Special Education School and Community Outreach services for all ages. For more than 17 years Latino Leadership staff have been committed to the advancement of the Central Florida Latino community and serving individuals of all cultures who live in our community.
(407) 499-8754 x2 View (407) 499-8754 x2
Photo of Brianna Edwards, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Brianna Edwards
Counselor, MS, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32809
I am a Registered Play Therapist, TBRI Practitioner and Florida Adoption Competent Therapist.
If you are reading this, chances are you have a child or teenager in need of counseling. Maybe you feel worn out by parenting challenges you never anticipated... or perhaps your precious child was exposed to hurts that you were not there to control. If you can relate, I am so glad you are here. I specialize with children and teens, ages 3-18, who have a history of trauma or attachment wounding. You might notice your child experiencing intense anger outbursts, aggression, shut downs, anxiety, depression, & more. These are just clues to a deeper root.
I am a Registered Play Therapist, TBRI Practitioner and Florida Adoption Competent Therapist.
If you are reading this, chances are you have a child or teenager in need of counseling. Maybe you feel worn out by parenting challenges you never anticipated... or perhaps your precious child was exposed to hurts that you were not there to control. If you can relate, I am so glad you are here. I specialize with children and teens, ages 3-18, who have a history of trauma or attachment wounding. You might notice your child experiencing intense anger outbursts, aggression, shut downs, anxiety, depression, & more. These are just clues to a deeper root.
(407) 530-3698 View (407) 530-3698
Photo of A Better Life Counseling Services, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
A Better Life Counseling Services, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
I am uniquely qualified to help you with any adoption-related issues from all three members of the adoption triad, birth parent, adoptive parent, and adoptee.
If you are looking for an empathetic and experienced therapist, I am here to help you. I will work hard to guide you to make the choices that will help you to achieve a better life. I am experienced in working with families, couples, and individuals. I provide a welcoming atmosphere to people of all races, ages, ethnic backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexual orientations. Additionally, I am a Qualified Supervisor for clinicians seeking licensure for Social Work (LCSW) and Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT).
I am uniquely qualified to help you with any adoption-related issues from all three members of the adoption triad, birth parent, adoptive parent, and adoptee.
If you are looking for an empathetic and experienced therapist, I am here to help you. I will work hard to guide you to make the choices that will help you to achieve a better life. I am experienced in working with families, couples, and individuals. I provide a welcoming atmosphere to people of all races, ages, ethnic backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexual orientations. Additionally, I am a Qualified Supervisor for clinicians seeking licensure for Social Work (LCSW) and Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT).
(407) 801-6861 View (407) 801-6861
Photo of Macy Oosthuizen (Pronounced Wist-Hay-Zen), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
Macy Oosthuizen (Pronounced Wist-Hay-Zen)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801
Macy is an Adoption-Competent therapist who is also an adoptee. She's passionate about providing therapy to teens & adults who need help navigating post-adoption issues, trauma, anxiety, grief, depression & stress from life's transitions. She also specializes in working with LGBTQ+ children, teens & adults. Parent coaching sessions are also an option if one is not sure if therapy is the answer. Macy recognizes people need a safe & accepting environment to learn about themselves & their relationships in order to succeed at identifying & addressing underlying causes of suffering.
Macy is an Adoption-Competent therapist who is also an adoptee. She's passionate about providing therapy to teens & adults who need help navigating post-adoption issues, trauma, anxiety, grief, depression & stress from life's transitions. She also specializes in working with LGBTQ+ children, teens & adults. Parent coaching sessions are also an option if one is not sure if therapy is the answer. Macy recognizes people need a safe & accepting environment to learn about themselves & their relationships in order to succeed at identifying & addressing underlying causes of suffering.
(561) 898-0737 View (561) 898-0737
Photo of Mariah Jeremiah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
Mariah Jeremiah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
I have over 10 years of clinical experience working with individuals who have gone through trauma as well as with a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, employment issues, relationship issues, etc. I provide great care for individuals of all ages. I believe at one point or another everyone is in need of therapy and it should be a shame-free and non-judgmental environment. I can provide individual, family, marriage and/or premarital therapy. I am formally trained in TF-CBT, PCIT, EMDR and Adoption Competency. I can provide pre- and post-adoption services.
I have over 10 years of clinical experience working with individuals who have gone through trauma as well as with a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, employment issues, relationship issues, etc. I provide great care for individuals of all ages. I believe at one point or another everyone is in need of therapy and it should be a shame-free and non-judgmental environment. I can provide individual, family, marriage and/or premarital therapy. I am formally trained in TF-CBT, PCIT, EMDR and Adoption Competency. I can provide pre- and post-adoption services.
(775) 364-0961 View (775) 364-0961
Photo of Krista Manganiello, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Krista Manganiello
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32829  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who approaches therapy from a solution-focused and strength-based perspective. I provide clients with a place for meaningful collaboration of ideas in order to find short and long-term solutions to problems. I specialize in working with children, couples, and families dealing with transitions, divorce, trauma, depression and anxiety.  I have experience with children, couples and families. I am an adoption competent therapist, parent coach, and skilled in helping children and families navigate life changes and struggles.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who approaches therapy from a solution-focused and strength-based perspective. I provide clients with a place for meaningful collaboration of ideas in order to find short and long-term solutions to problems. I specialize in working with children, couples, and families dealing with transitions, divorce, trauma, depression and anxiety.  I have experience with children, couples and families. I am an adoption competent therapist, parent coach, and skilled in helping children and families navigate life changes and struggles.
(689) 400-7519 View (689) 400-7519
Photo of Beverly Dabrio in Orlando, FL
Beverly Dabrio
BCBA
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32835
We specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Infant Mental Health, Parent-Child Therapy, Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Parent Coaching, Separation and Divorce Issues and Adoption Competent Therapy.
I have extensive experience serving children with special needs including autism, ADHD, and OCD. Services are available for an array of behavioral challenges and academic supports, and can be provided in homes, online, office, schools and childcare centers. My specialties include behavior therapy, verbal behavior speech therapy, social-emotional development, social skills training, problematic challenging behaviors, and daily living skills, including feeding therapy and potty training. In addition, I provide consultation and supervision services for families, professionals and agencies.
We specialize in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Infant Mental Health, Parent-Child Therapy, Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Parent Coaching, Separation and Divorce Issues and Adoption Competent Therapy.
I have extensive experience serving children with special needs including autism, ADHD, and OCD. Services are available for an array of behavioral challenges and academic supports, and can be provided in homes, online, office, schools and childcare centers. My specialties include behavior therapy, verbal behavior speech therapy, social-emotional development, social skills training, problematic challenging behaviors, and daily living skills, including feeding therapy and potty training. In addition, I provide consultation and supervision services for families, professionals and agencies.
(321) 398-4031 View (321) 398-4031
Photo of Tranquil Waters Foundation Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
Tranquil Waters Foundation Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32827  (Online Only)
I am certified and trained as an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Clinician, Foster and Adoption Competent, and trained in Couples Counseling using Prepare/Enrich Model.
Virtual Only. My patients often enjoy the ability to be heard without judgement or interruption, when they want to share details of events that cause them to experience the emotions they are feeling. They often need an outlet as they process what they are feeling and I provide that in a safe environment. I guide the sessions to help encourage the development of solutions when my patient is in that place emotionally, and ready for a positive change. Patients often find relief of their symptoms when they feel validated in how they are feeling, and supported as they learn how to cope with various situations that arise.
I am certified and trained as an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Clinician, Foster and Adoption Competent, and trained in Couples Counseling using Prepare/Enrich Model.
Virtual Only. My patients often enjoy the ability to be heard without judgement or interruption, when they want to share details of events that cause them to experience the emotions they are feeling. They often need an outlet as they process what they are feeling and I provide that in a safe environment. I guide the sessions to help encourage the development of solutions when my patient is in that place emotionally, and ready for a positive change. Patients often find relief of their symptoms when they feel validated in how they are feeling, and supported as they learn how to cope with various situations that arise.
(407) 449-1294 View (407) 449-1294
Photo of Connected Counseling Orlando, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orlando, FL
Connected Counseling Orlando
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32837
I believe that we can only be seen and healed within the context of relationships. My passion is to serve my clients by providing them with the tools and resources needed to live an abundant life and maintain healthy relationships. Marriage, parenting, blended families, adoption, relationship issues, self-esteem, anxiety, and stress can become challenging. My job as your therapist is to guide and support you on your healing journey towards living an abundant life.
I believe that we can only be seen and healed within the context of relationships. My passion is to serve my clients by providing them with the tools and resources needed to live an abundant life and maintain healthy relationships. Marriage, parenting, blended families, adoption, relationship issues, self-esteem, anxiety, and stress can become challenging. My job as your therapist is to guide and support you on your healing journey towards living an abundant life.
(321) 415-3261 View (321) 415-3261
Photo of Anne Jones, Psychologist in Orlando, FL
Anne Jones
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32806  (Online Only)
I specialize in comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adults. This includes assessment and diagnosis of learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum and other developmental disorders, as well as behavior, mood, and anxiety disorders. I also complete evaluations required for inclusion in gifted or special education programs, pre-adoption, pre-surgical, and court-ordered evaluations. I am experienced in working with individuals of all ages, from preschool to the elderly. This includes individuals diagnosed with Neurocognitive Disorders (Dementia) and their families.
I specialize in comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and adults. This includes assessment and diagnosis of learning disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum and other developmental disorders, as well as behavior, mood, and anxiety disorders. I also complete evaluations required for inclusion in gifted or special education programs, pre-adoption, pre-surgical, and court-ordered evaluations. I am experienced in working with individuals of all ages, from preschool to the elderly. This includes individuals diagnosed with Neurocognitive Disorders (Dementia) and their families.
(407) 901-3448 View (407) 901-3448
Photo of Heart Bonds Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
Heart Bonds Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
We specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adult ADHD, spirituality, relationships, couple problems, adoption and foster care, elder adults, family conflict/ changes, stress, anger management, negative thought patterns, parenting, recovery, women's issues, trauma, and more.
There's no one-size-fits-all for those struggling with challenges, but it's our joy to travel with you in a safe and empathetic, connected environment. Our goal is to help you navigate your bonds in the past, present, and future, for a healthier heart and relationships. Therapy is a process of growth, and we look forward to walking alongside you. We specialize in working with adults of all ages, young adults, children, couples, and families. At Heart Bonds Counseling, we have several specialized counselors to help with a variety of needs and concerns.
We specialize in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, adult ADHD, spirituality, relationships, couple problems, adoption and foster care, elder adults, family conflict/ changes, stress, anger management, negative thought patterns, parenting, recovery, women's issues, trauma, and more.
There's no one-size-fits-all for those struggling with challenges, but it's our joy to travel with you in a safe and empathetic, connected environment. Our goal is to help you navigate your bonds in the past, present, and future, for a healthier heart and relationships. Therapy is a process of growth, and we look forward to walking alongside you. We specialize in working with adults of all ages, young adults, children, couples, and families. At Heart Bonds Counseling, we have several specialized counselors to help with a variety of needs and concerns.
(813) 437-9764 View (813) 437-9764
Photo of Positive Behavioral Solutions, LLC, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Positive Behavioral Solutions, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32835
We are a trauma informed agency, with specialized adoption competent providers and offer trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
Behavioral Health Agency that provides quality Mental Health Counseling, Social Services, and Psycho-Social Rehabilitation services. Our approach to Therapy and PSR is solution focused, client centered, and insight oriented. Our providers are highly trained and qualified in their respective area of expertise. Individuals seeking to make a positive change in their life are welcome to inquire about our programs. Services can be provided in office, home, or community settings/dependent upon your insurance coverage. We are committed to helping our clients reach their highest potential and welcome the opportunity to earn your trust.
We are a trauma informed agency, with specialized adoption competent providers and offer trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
Behavioral Health Agency that provides quality Mental Health Counseling, Social Services, and Psycho-Social Rehabilitation services. Our approach to Therapy and PSR is solution focused, client centered, and insight oriented. Our providers are highly trained and qualified in their respective area of expertise. Individuals seeking to make a positive change in their life are welcome to inquire about our programs. Services can be provided in office, home, or community settings/dependent upon your insurance coverage. We are committed to helping our clients reach their highest potential and welcome the opportunity to earn your trust.
(407) 588-8363 View (407) 588-8363
Photo of Lakesha Hayes, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Lakesha Hayes
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32828
My training in Play Therapy, Adoption and Parenting Issues allows me the privilege to connect and work with children as young as 2 years old.
My passion is helping individuals gain self-fulfillment, growth and happiness throughout this journey of life. In life challenges may arise where you experience self-doubt, unhealthy habits or trauma. I am here to help you overcome these challenges by using a holistic approach focusing on your cognitions and the impact they have on your behavior. If you are looking to make healthy changes and overcome past struggles today is a great day to get started. I provide in office sessions and recently added telehealth services via live video sessions (adults only).
My training in Play Therapy, Adoption and Parenting Issues allows me the privilege to connect and work with children as young as 2 years old.
My passion is helping individuals gain self-fulfillment, growth and happiness throughout this journey of life. In life challenges may arise where you experience self-doubt, unhealthy habits or trauma. I am here to help you overcome these challenges by using a holistic approach focusing on your cognitions and the impact they have on your behavior. If you are looking to make healthy changes and overcome past struggles today is a great day to get started. I provide in office sessions and recently added telehealth services via live video sessions (adults only).
(407) 641-3503 View (407) 641-3503
Photo of Karla Bilderbeck, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Karla Bilderbeck
Counselor, LMHC , ATR
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32805
Is anxiety running you around all over the place? Feeling hopeless? Let's get your hope back! Are you looking for a place you can feel safe enough to say everything you need to? I offer a safe space for healing such issues as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, self esteem, sexual abuse, family conflict and personal growth. I have over 20 years experience with individuals and families in evidence based therapy. I am EMDR and A.R.T. certified and have special training in treating adoption and mood issues. Therapy can be a path to empowerment. Let's work together to get your life back on track. You're worth it!
Is anxiety running you around all over the place? Feeling hopeless? Let's get your hope back! Are you looking for a place you can feel safe enough to say everything you need to? I offer a safe space for healing such issues as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, self esteem, sexual abuse, family conflict and personal growth. I have over 20 years experience with individuals and families in evidence based therapy. I am EMDR and A.R.T. certified and have special training in treating adoption and mood issues. Therapy can be a path to empowerment. Let's work together to get your life back on track. You're worth it!
(407) 449-8028 View (407) 449-8028
Photo of Charity Thomas, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Charity Thomas
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32804
I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), TF-CBT, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) level 1, addictions, adoption competency trained (ACT) and sexual abuse trained.
Life is a journey that consist of ups and downs helping mold who we are today and forge who will become tomorrow. Why should you go through this alone? You shouldn’t. We all need support and guidance. As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, I will strive to provide you with the tools and resources you will need along your journey to become a happier and healthier person. I offer a safe place where you can express yourself in a non-judgement atmosphere, while gaining skills and learn how to make changes that promote healing.
I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), TF-CBT, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) level 1, addictions, adoption competency trained (ACT) and sexual abuse trained.
Life is a journey that consist of ups and downs helping mold who we are today and forge who will become tomorrow. Why should you go through this alone? You shouldn’t. We all need support and guidance. As a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, I will strive to provide you with the tools and resources you will need along your journey to become a happier and healthier person. I offer a safe place where you can express yourself in a non-judgement atmosphere, while gaining skills and learn how to make changes that promote healing.
(407) 942-2890 View (407) 942-2890
Photo of Hope of Heartland, Inc, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Hope of Heartland, Inc
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803  (Online Only)
I am trained in Adoption Competency, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Advanced TF-CBT working with children with problematic sexual behaviors, Grief, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, EMDR, Aggression Replacement Therapy, & Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Substance Abuse.
If you are struggling with depression, trauma, anxiety, or substance abuse you have come to the right place. Working through these issues on your own can feel daunting and overwhelming. It's ok, I can help you create a roadmap for your healing. I know you are probably tired of trying to do the hard work on your own. That is why therapy is essential and for many, it's a fast track to healing and restoration. As a seasoned professional with over 20 years of helping people heal, I am committed to your process.
I am trained in Adoption Competency, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Advanced TF-CBT working with children with problematic sexual behaviors, Grief, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, EMDR, Aggression Replacement Therapy, & Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Substance Abuse.
If you are struggling with depression, trauma, anxiety, or substance abuse you have come to the right place. Working through these issues on your own can feel daunting and overwhelming. It's ok, I can help you create a roadmap for your healing. I know you are probably tired of trying to do the hard work on your own. That is why therapy is essential and for many, it's a fast track to healing and restoration. As a seasoned professional with over 20 years of helping people heal, I am committed to your process.
(863) 204-2670 View (863) 204-2670
Photo of Jenna Watson, Counselor in Orlando, FL
Jenna Watson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
I am also dedicated to working with individuals and families who are navigating infertility, adoption, and the postpartum period.
You’ve got a lot going on, and it feels overwhelming. Maybe you have too many choices and can’t decide what to do. I help individuals and couples reclaim their personal power and author a life story that is just right for them. Maybe therapy seems like something you don't "need," but you want to move from surviving to thriving and know something needs to change. You want to feel better and get some relief but are not sure how to get there. My approach is warm, collaborative, and directive. My first career was in the corporate world, and I bring many aspects of my business experience in to my work with clients.
I am also dedicated to working with individuals and families who are navigating infertility, adoption, and the postpartum period.
You’ve got a lot going on, and it feels overwhelming. Maybe you have too many choices and can’t decide what to do. I help individuals and couples reclaim their personal power and author a life story that is just right for them. Maybe therapy seems like something you don't "need," but you want to move from surviving to thriving and know something needs to change. You want to feel better and get some relief but are not sure how to get there. My approach is warm, collaborative, and directive. My first career was in the corporate world, and I bring many aspects of my business experience in to my work with clients.
(407) 801-2520 View (407) 801-2520
Photo of Jennifer Lombardo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Orlando, FL
Jennifer Lombardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32801  (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to working with you! I imagine you're here because it's time to find more fulfillment, clarity, peace and joy in your life and maybe less anxiety, sadness, confusion. Or maybe you're already aware of what is working well for you and just need extra support to achieve greater understanding and mastery of self. From many years of working with diverse clients and populations, I've learned that one style does not fit all. While I customize various approaches for anxiety and depression, I also specialize in trauma, strategic solutions, and working with other "helpers".
Hello, I look forward to working with you! I imagine you're here because it's time to find more fulfillment, clarity, peace and joy in your life and maybe less anxiety, sadness, confusion. Or maybe you're already aware of what is working well for you and just need extra support to achieve greater understanding and mastery of self. From many years of working with diverse clients and populations, I've learned that one style does not fit all. While I customize various approaches for anxiety and depression, I also specialize in trauma, strategic solutions, and working with other "helpers".
(321) 342-2569 View (321) 342-2569
Photo of Connecting Well Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Orlando, FL
Connecting Well Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CISM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32819
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the state of Florida. I have been working with marriages, families, and individuals throughout the stages life brings. I believe there is hope in any circumstance if someone is willing, teachable, and open to change. We are offering in-person and Telehealth appointments Please call or email for details.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the state of Florida. I have been working with marriages, families, and individuals throughout the stages life brings. I believe there is hope in any circumstance if someone is willing, teachable, and open to change. We are offering in-person and Telehealth appointments Please call or email for details.
(407) 641-2713 View (407) 641-2713
Photo of The Nurture Place, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Orlando, FL
The Nurture Place
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Orlando, FL 32803
We all have times in our lives when we need someone to walk with us through the challenges of life. We are here to be your support, no matter the challenges.
We all have times in our lives when we need someone to walk with us through the challenges of life. We are here to be your support, no matter the challenges.
(689) 220-3673 View (689) 220-3673

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.