Adoption Therapists in Chenoa, IL

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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jayme E Bradshaw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jayme E Bradshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, IL 61753
Our lives are very busy; therefore, my hours are flexible to work with your schedule. We will work together to create a treatment that is unique to your own needs. I have over 15 years of fieldwork and have been able to help people with many backgrounds and needs. I will listen to you and help guide you to where you want to be.
Our lives are very busy; therefore, my hours are flexible to work with your schedule. We will work together to create a treatment that is unique to your own needs. I have over 15 years of fieldwork and have been able to help people with many backgrounds and needs. I will listen to you and help guide you to where you want to be.
(815) 205-1566 View (815) 205-1566

Online Therapists

Photo of Jamie Janssen, PsyD, LCSW, Psychologist
Jamie Janssen
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Taking the step to enter therapy takes courage. Life is hard sometimes. We all have a natural resilience to heal from trauma, loss, & unexpected setbacks, however stories created about who we are can get in the way. We need a safe place to work through issues, be accepted, heard, and receive objective feedback & direction. Jamie provides an empathic, supportive & non-judgmental place for you to heal & grow. Change is possible! Specialties: life transitions, grief, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, post-partum, eating disorders, self-injury, domestic violence, divorce, & chronic pain. Other areas include ADHD, Autism, & Adoption.
Taking the step to enter therapy takes courage. Life is hard sometimes. We all have a natural resilience to heal from trauma, loss, & unexpected setbacks, however stories created about who we are can get in the way. We need a safe place to work through issues, be accepted, heard, and receive objective feedback & direction. Jamie provides an empathic, supportive & non-judgmental place for you to heal & grow. Change is possible! Specialties: life transitions, grief, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, post-partum, eating disorders, self-injury, domestic violence, divorce, & chronic pain. Other areas include ADHD, Autism, & Adoption.
(708) 627-2095 View (708) 627-2095
Photo of Nicole Massey-Hastings, PsyD, LCP, PMH-C, Psychologist
Nicole Massey-Hastings
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I am particularly well-equipped to assess and treat issues surrounding reproduction and family formation, including: adoption, choosing to start a family/remain child-free, perinatal grief (special needs, still-birth, loss of child), infertility, miscarriage, postpartum concerns, pre-marital counseling, reproductive decisions, transition to parenthood, and twins and multiples.
My goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting change and resilience. I am results-oriented. Many clients and parents report significant change in 4-8 sessions.I work with clients from many different walks of life and provide comprehensive counseling services for adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. My approach is collaborative, understanding, and caring, as well as evidence-based. I use a state-of-the art outcome assessment to ensure that your counseling is effective and individualized. Please see my website regarding my exclusive approach for families: The Harmonizing Your Home Program.
I am particularly well-equipped to assess and treat issues surrounding reproduction and family formation, including: adoption, choosing to start a family/remain child-free, perinatal grief (special needs, still-birth, loss of child), infertility, miscarriage, postpartum concerns, pre-marital counseling, reproductive decisions, transition to parenthood, and twins and multiples.
My goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting change and resilience. I am results-oriented. Many clients and parents report significant change in 4-8 sessions.I work with clients from many different walks of life and provide comprehensive counseling services for adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. My approach is collaborative, understanding, and caring, as well as evidence-based. I use a state-of-the art outcome assessment to ensure that your counseling is effective and individualized. Please see my website regarding my exclusive approach for families: The Harmonizing Your Home Program.
(630) 948-0374 x501 View (630) 948-0374 x501
Photo of Sharon Steckler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Steckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Some specialized areas of interest are psychedelic assisted psychotherapy, mood disorders, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, adoption, foster care, living with HIV/AIDS & Psychedelic Integration.
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. With over 20 yrs. experience as a psychotherapist, I am well versed in clinical practice. I incorporate a number of methods, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, CBT, Mindfulness, & Attachment Therapy. I'm certified in EMDR for the treatment of trauma & other painful or highly charged memories, experiences, & relationships. My use of EMDR can facilitate rapid resolution of painful memories & relationships, trauma, & change negative beliefs about yourself.
Some specialized areas of interest are psychedelic assisted psychotherapy, mood disorders, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, adoption, foster care, living with HIV/AIDS & Psychedelic Integration.
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. With over 20 yrs. experience as a psychotherapist, I am well versed in clinical practice. I incorporate a number of methods, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, CBT, Mindfulness, & Attachment Therapy. I'm certified in EMDR for the treatment of trauma & other painful or highly charged memories, experiences, & relationships. My use of EMDR can facilitate rapid resolution of painful memories & relationships, trauma, & change negative beliefs about yourself.
(847) 807-1996 x1 View (847) 807-1996 x1
Photo of Jodi Stelley, LCPC, NCC, MA, EdM
Jodi Stelley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
I also specialize in working with transnational/transcultural Adoptees as they explore ways adoption has uniquely shaped their sense of self, family, and relationships.
As a therapist, I help clients who are healing from trauma, learning how to manage feelings of anxiety and depression, processing grief, and trying to establish healthier boundaries in work and life. I strive to see each person holistically with an understanding of how our intersecting identities inform our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe therapy can help us better understand ourselves while providing tools to help us manage life more successfully. I specialize in working with young adults and have a decade of experience working with college students explore vocational goals, shifts in identity, and emerging autonomy.
I also specialize in working with transnational/transcultural Adoptees as they explore ways adoption has uniquely shaped their sense of self, family, and relationships.
As a therapist, I help clients who are healing from trauma, learning how to manage feelings of anxiety and depression, processing grief, and trying to establish healthier boundaries in work and life. I strive to see each person holistically with an understanding of how our intersecting identities inform our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe therapy can help us better understand ourselves while providing tools to help us manage life more successfully. I specialize in working with young adults and have a decade of experience working with college students explore vocational goals, shifts in identity, and emerging autonomy.
(224) 808-5257 View (224) 808-5257
Photo of Andrew M Fisher, MA, LCPC, I/ECHMC, Counselor
Andrew M Fisher
Counselor, MA, LCPC, I/ECHMC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914
I have specialized in working with families with young children as well as children who have experienced trauma and adoption/attachment issues.
So often, we experience a time in our life where we feel stuck, misunderstood, or perplexed of what to do next. Have you experienced an event in your life that is challenging to move past? Feeling at a loss of how to repair a relationship, whether adult or child? These situations can be overwhelming and bring up a whole host of emotions that impact us in many ways. I use a relational and attachment based approach to help individuals, couples and families establish and maintain healthy relationships and strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and children of all ages.
I have specialized in working with families with young children as well as children who have experienced trauma and adoption/attachment issues.
So often, we experience a time in our life where we feel stuck, misunderstood, or perplexed of what to do next. Have you experienced an event in your life that is challenging to move past? Feeling at a loss of how to repair a relationship, whether adult or child? These situations can be overwhelming and bring up a whole host of emotions that impact us in many ways. I use a relational and attachment based approach to help individuals, couples and families establish and maintain healthy relationships and strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events. I enjoy working with adults, couples, and children of all ages.
(815) 281-5315 View (815) 281-5315
Photo of Barbara deRamona, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara deRamona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
Currently, I am seeing clients virtually or we are talking on the telephone. I know the decision to seek counseling is often a difficult one. These days with all the chaos and turmoil in the outer world our issues and concerns have become heightened. I have experience with a variety of issues including grief and loss, depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, self esteem, anger management, adoption and relationship patterns.
Currently, I am seeing clients virtually or we are talking on the telephone. I know the decision to seek counseling is often a difficult one. These days with all the chaos and turmoil in the outer world our issues and concerns have become heightened. I have experience with a variety of issues including grief and loss, depression, anxiety, stress management, trauma, self esteem, anger management, adoption and relationship patterns.
(312) 697-1660 View (312) 697-1660
Photo of Victoria Shirkey, LCPC, Counselor
Victoria Shirkey
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
I have a proven track record in addressing diverse needs like depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal ideations, relationship issues, behavioral challenges, foster and adoption concerns, stress, ADHD, Autism, etc.
Curious about the future? Wondering if it's worth it? Seeking hope amidst challenges? Let's journey together! I'm Tori, a Southern Illinois native now in BLONO since 2021. With Poppy (my dachshund), music, and loved ones, I find joy. Warm, dedicated, open-minded—I'm here to support. Mental health in the community brings me happiness. My office is a welcoming, safe space. Therapy "aha moments" are my favorite. Personal health varies; together, we'll tailor a plan. I've worked with diverse individuals, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and more.
I have a proven track record in addressing diverse needs like depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal ideations, relationship issues, behavioral challenges, foster and adoption concerns, stress, ADHD, Autism, etc.
Curious about the future? Wondering if it's worth it? Seeking hope amidst challenges? Let's journey together! I'm Tori, a Southern Illinois native now in BLONO since 2021. With Poppy (my dachshund), music, and loved ones, I find joy. Warm, dedicated, open-minded—I'm here to support. Mental health in the community brings me happiness. My office is a welcoming, safe space. Therapy "aha moments" are my favorite. Personal health varies; together, we'll tailor a plan. I've worked with diverse individuals, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and more.
(309) 252-4162 View (309) 252-4162
Photo of Bradley Kahle, PsyD, Psychologist
Bradley Kahle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I also work with couples who have experienced the pain of infertility as well as couples who are considering adoption.
I believe that change best occurs in the context of an open, trusting relationship. Therapy is a collaborative relationship in which we work together to address the issues that you are struggling with. Together, we will identify your feelings, thoughts, and dynamics that are impacting your life. We will work together to meet your goals in pursuit of a purposeful and rewarding life.
I also work with couples who have experienced the pain of infertility as well as couples who are considering adoption.
I believe that change best occurs in the context of an open, trusting relationship. Therapy is a collaborative relationship in which we work together to address the issues that you are struggling with. Together, we will identify your feelings, thoughts, and dynamics that are impacting your life. We will work together to meet your goals in pursuit of a purposeful and rewarding life.
(888) 725-4642 View (888) 725-4642
Photo of Karyn Roggatz Ness, MS MA, LCPC
Karyn Roggatz Ness
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Adoption issues.
It is my goal to work with people of all ages, and simply meet them where they are. I hope to motivate my clients to make changes that will enhance the quality of their lives, working from the most appropriate theoretical models that suit each person's needs.
Adoption issues.
It is my goal to work with people of all ages, and simply meet them where they are. I hope to motivate my clients to make changes that will enhance the quality of their lives, working from the most appropriate theoretical models that suit each person's needs.
(847) 750-3897 View (847) 750-3897
Photo of Alex Goreham, LCSW, CRADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Goreham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I specialize in trauma, adoption, addictions, attachment, depression, anxiety, and faith/spirituality.
Hey there! My name is Alex. Life can be a tricky journey, sometimes it is full of excitement and fun, and other times it can really be tough. I don't believe we were created to walk this life alone, especially through those difficult moments. That's where therapy comes in. To be honest with you, I don't have the power to change you and that is not my goal. My job as a therapist is to come alongside you and help you rediscover yourself and your potential. With a greater understanding of who you are and where you have been, comes the opportunity for change to create a new normal.
I specialize in trauma, adoption, addictions, attachment, depression, anxiety, and faith/spirituality.
Hey there! My name is Alex. Life can be a tricky journey, sometimes it is full of excitement and fun, and other times it can really be tough. I don't believe we were created to walk this life alone, especially through those difficult moments. That's where therapy comes in. To be honest with you, I don't have the power to change you and that is not my goal. My job as a therapist is to come alongside you and help you rediscover yourself and your potential. With a greater understanding of who you are and where you have been, comes the opportunity for change to create a new normal.
(331) 204-1773 View (331) 204-1773
Photo of Rick B. Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rick B. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
As a Couple & Family Therapist, I work with couples, families, and individuals to navigate the challenges of couplehood, parenting, adoption/blended family, chronic & life-threatening illness, and separation/divorce.
Our most important relationships are also often those we struggle with. I am an expert listener, advisor, and facilitator and, working together, we’ll turn struggles into opportunity and strife into increased connection.
As a Couple & Family Therapist, I work with couples, families, and individuals to navigate the challenges of couplehood, parenting, adoption/blended family, chronic & life-threatening illness, and separation/divorce.
Our most important relationships are also often those we struggle with. I am an expert listener, advisor, and facilitator and, working together, we’ll turn struggles into opportunity and strife into increased connection.
(708) 406-2745 View (708) 406-2745
Photo of Elizabeth Campbell, LCSW, RPT, ICST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT, ICST
Verified Verified
Princeton, IL 61356
I'm trained as a child and adolescent trauma professional, and I am also skilled in assisting in an array of clinical issues including chronic stress and anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, various personality disorders, Adoption concerns (Birthparents, Adoptive Parents, and Adoptees), esteem, and self-worth, along with academic and employment.
My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, realistic, and empathetic. I have had the privilege of serving children,teens, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds. I specialize in trauma therapy in children and adults and enjoy an experiential approach to healing. I have experience working with domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking survivors.
I'm trained as a child and adolescent trauma professional, and I am also skilled in assisting in an array of clinical issues including chronic stress and anxiety, trauma, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, various personality disorders, Adoption concerns (Birthparents, Adoptive Parents, and Adoptees), esteem, and self-worth, along with academic and employment.
My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, realistic, and empathetic. I have had the privilege of serving children,teens, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds. I specialize in trauma therapy in children and adults and enjoy an experiential approach to healing. I have experience working with domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking survivors.
(779) 345-2269 View (779) 345-2269
Photo of Stephanie Petrey, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Stephanie Petrey
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181  (Online Only)
I have a strong focus on parenting, behavioral issues, attachment based treatment (including post adoption) and ADHD.
Seeking support when dealing with difficult and challenging times in life can be overwhelming. It is my commitment as you take this step, to help guide you toward reaching your personal treatment goals. I work collaboratively with clients as I believe that treatment should be tailored to each client's personal needs in order for the client to feel comfortable and confident in reaching their treatment goals
I have a strong focus on parenting, behavioral issues, attachment based treatment (including post adoption) and ADHD.
Seeking support when dealing with difficult and challenging times in life can be overwhelming. It is my commitment as you take this step, to help guide you toward reaching your personal treatment goals. I work collaboratively with clients as I believe that treatment should be tailored to each client's personal needs in order for the client to feel comfortable and confident in reaching their treatment goals
(708) 462-5210 View (708) 462-5210
Photo of Amy Groessl, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Groessl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
Waitlist for new clients
As an adoptee, genetic genealogist, and psychotherapist - I have a deep understanding and passion for working with individuals navigating complex emotional, identity, and relationship issues related to unexpected DNA discoveries (NPE), domestic and international adoption, or donor conception.
Whether you wish to gain clarity about a life challenge or seek to resolve a deeper change from within, our work together will present an opportunity to rework the patterns that may be disrupting your relationships or preventing you from fulfilling your life goals. I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, viewing our therapeutic relationship as central to the change process while helping you understand how past conflicts affect how you feel in the present. I approach our work together from a genuine, empathetic stance with openness, humor, and curiosity. It is important that we are partners in your healing process.
As an adoptee, genetic genealogist, and psychotherapist - I have a deep understanding and passion for working with individuals navigating complex emotional, identity, and relationship issues related to unexpected DNA discoveries (NPE), domestic and international adoption, or donor conception.
Whether you wish to gain clarity about a life challenge or seek to resolve a deeper change from within, our work together will present an opportunity to rework the patterns that may be disrupting your relationships or preventing you from fulfilling your life goals. I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, viewing our therapeutic relationship as central to the change process while helping you understand how past conflicts affect how you feel in the present. I approach our work together from a genuine, empathetic stance with openness, humor, and curiosity. It is important that we are partners in your healing process.
(773) 570-9224 View (773) 570-9224
Photo of Jennesa Gober, BA, MBA, MSW Int, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jennesa Gober
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MBA, MSW Int
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
My mission is to support individuals through their mental health journeys, using my diverse background and personal experiences to provide compassionate and effective therapy. My journey into parenthood was challenging, I have personally experienced infertility, miscarriage, postpartum depression, adoption, and infant loss. All of these experiences help me to better support you along your life path. My method is to provide a sensitive, understanding, and empathetic therapy experience for you, my client.
My mission is to support individuals through their mental health journeys, using my diverse background and personal experiences to provide compassionate and effective therapy. My journey into parenthood was challenging, I have personally experienced infertility, miscarriage, postpartum depression, adoption, and infant loss. All of these experiences help me to better support you along your life path. My method is to provide a sensitive, understanding, and empathetic therapy experience for you, my client.
(224) 651-8839 View (224) 651-8839
Photo of Sandi Kellerstrass, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sandi Kellerstrass
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morton, IL 61550
Sandi Kellerstrass, owner of and therapist for Syndeo Counseling is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nine years of therapeutic experience. She holds a BA in Leadership and Management and an MA in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. Sandi has prior field experience in community-based counseling, foster care and adoption preservation.
Sandi Kellerstrass, owner of and therapist for Syndeo Counseling is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nine years of therapeutic experience. She holds a BA in Leadership and Management and an MA in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. Sandi has prior field experience in community-based counseling, foster care and adoption preservation.
(309) 312-9010 View (309) 312-9010
Photo of Phyllis Laughlin, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Phyllis Laughlin
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60302
Waitlist for new clients
Extensive experience with adoption issues for those who have adopted, made an adoption plan, or were placed for adoption.
Life is all about relationships--beginning with the one you have with yourself. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to explore your underlying feelings leading to a better understanding and acceptance of who you are and who you can be. I will provide you a supportive relationship as you re-gain control of your life. Changes within often change relationships with others and that can be challenging, even frightening, yet rewarding. We will work together to strengthen emotional bonds with loved ones, cope with grief and loss, deal with trauma, and maintain a sense of inner balance.
Extensive experience with adoption issues for those who have adopted, made an adoption plan, or were placed for adoption.
Life is all about relationships--beginning with the one you have with yourself. My goal is to provide a safe place for you to explore your underlying feelings leading to a better understanding and acceptance of who you are and who you can be. I will provide you a supportive relationship as you re-gain control of your life. Changes within often change relationships with others and that can be challenging, even frightening, yet rewarding. We will work together to strengthen emotional bonds with loved ones, cope with grief and loss, deal with trauma, and maintain a sense of inner balance.
(773) 980-6971 View (773) 980-6971
Photo of Mihaela Bernard, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Mihaela Bernard
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Elmhurst, IL 60126
I am experienced in counseling children, adolescents and adults, who face various challenges from divorce and adoption, to self-injurious behaviors, eating and mood disorders, depression and anxiety.
Are you looking for a competent, accepting and genuine therapist for yourself or your child? Do you or your family need support in your relationships? Is your kid struggling at school or at home? My name is Mihaela Bernard but most clients call me Misha. I specialize in counseling children and adolescents who struggle with behavioral and emotional issues. In my practice, we work together to help you and/or your family modify the way in which you relate to each other, and to improve the quality of your relationships.
I am experienced in counseling children, adolescents and adults, who face various challenges from divorce and adoption, to self-injurious behaviors, eating and mood disorders, depression and anxiety.
Are you looking for a competent, accepting and genuine therapist for yourself or your child? Do you or your family need support in your relationships? Is your kid struggling at school or at home? My name is Mihaela Bernard but most clients call me Misha. I specialize in counseling children and adolescents who struggle with behavioral and emotional issues. In my practice, we work together to help you and/or your family modify the way in which you relate to each other, and to improve the quality of your relationships.
(773) 309-4605 View (773) 309-4605
Photo of Leah A' Hearn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah A' Hearn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Savoy, IL 61874
I've worked with both children and adults in my career, and specialize in trauma, adoption issues, and trauma-informed parenting.
Figuring out our feelings and then how to handle them can be so tricky sometimes. Many of us are also doing the hard work of unpacking our own trauma and stopping the cycle of generational trauma. We are all trying our best, and I'm honored to be with my clients as they navigate through it. You are not alone, and therapy offers a safe, comfortable space for you to let it all out, for you to feel heard, and for you to learn and grow.
I've worked with both children and adults in my career, and specialize in trauma, adoption issues, and trauma-informed parenting.
Figuring out our feelings and then how to handle them can be so tricky sometimes. Many of us are also doing the hard work of unpacking our own trauma and stopping the cycle of generational trauma. We are all trying our best, and I'm honored to be with my clients as they navigate through it. You are not alone, and therapy offers a safe, comfortable space for you to let it all out, for you to feel heard, and for you to learn and grow.
(217) 262-1607 View (217) 262-1607

See more therapy options for Chenoa

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.