Adoption Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Nghia Le, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nghia Le
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
More specifically, I have training and focused experience with individuals in the adoption constellation, from immigrant families, and/or immigrants themselves.
Clients I work with often feel in-between jobs, relationships, cultures, or identities. This “in-between” feeling can show up as depression, anxiety, or difficulties with relationships and indecisiveness. I believe that peace and stability comes from finding comfort in the “in-between” and not forcing yourself out. I offer space for individuals to learn more about themselves and how they show up in the many roles in their lives so they can be more themselves in all parts of their lives. (I meet with virtually with clients residing in California and Illinois).
More specifically, I have training and focused experience with individuals in the adoption constellation, from immigrant families, and/or immigrants themselves.
Clients I work with often feel in-between jobs, relationships, cultures, or identities. This “in-between” feeling can show up as depression, anxiety, or difficulties with relationships and indecisiveness. I believe that peace and stability comes from finding comfort in the “in-between” and not forcing yourself out. I offer space for individuals to learn more about themselves and how they show up in the many roles in their lives so they can be more themselves in all parts of their lives. (I meet with virtually with clients residing in California and Illinois).
(847) 440-1356 View (847) 440-1356
Photo of Sharon Steckler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
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 Faith Donohue, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Faith Donohue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
During the course of my professional & personal life, I have gained an expertise in reproductive health & family building including fertility treatment, assisted & third party reproduction, and adoption & foster care.
Therapy is a very intimate experience. I strive for a personal connection with my clients from the get-go. Through that relationship, I am better able to understand the motivations, hidden struggles and impulses that drive my clients, and in turn, help them to utilize their own strengths and learned techniques to successfully address the difficult issues for which they sought therapy. I have assisted clients who are going through or preparing for a life transition, experiencing depression, anxiety or mood disorders, and recovering from trauma or loss.
During the course of my professional & personal life, I have gained an expertise in reproductive health & family building including fertility treatment, assisted & third party reproduction, and adoption & foster care.
Therapy is a very intimate experience. I strive for a personal connection with my clients from the get-go. Through that relationship, I am better able to understand the motivations, hidden struggles and impulses that drive my clients, and in turn, help them to utilize their own strengths and learned techniques to successfully address the difficult issues for which they sought therapy. I have assisted clients who are going through or preparing for a life transition, experiencing depression, anxiety or mood disorders, and recovering from trauma or loss.
(312) 675-4178 View (312) 675-4178
Photo of Kimberly Langrehr, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Kimberly Langrehr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I also have particular expertise helping individuals from the adoption community (e.
As a generalist clinician, I appreciate that people seek therapy for a variety of different reasons. I take a collaborative and relational approach to therapy and do my best to provide a supportive space for clients to feel heard, express themselves, and actively work toward change.
I also have particular expertise helping individuals from the adoption community (e.
As a generalist clinician, I appreciate that people seek therapy for a variety of different reasons. I take a collaborative and relational approach to therapy and do my best to provide a supportive space for clients to feel heard, express themselves, and actively work toward change.
(312) 248-9281 View (312) 248-9281
Photo of Dori Fujii, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Dori Fujii
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
How we make sense of our life experiences and deal with life's challenges is important for all of us. Adoption adds a layer of complexity. Issues of attachment, trauma, loss, race/identity, behavioral regulation, self-esteem and the impact of difficult/unknown early history take on added significance as children grow and mature into young adults. At The Cradle Center for Lifelong Support, I work with all members of the adoption circle My expertise is in strengthening children and their families by improving attachment, communication and understanding through individual/family therapy, parent coaching and education.
How we make sense of our life experiences and deal with life's challenges is important for all of us. Adoption adds a layer of complexity. Issues of attachment, trauma, loss, race/identity, behavioral regulation, self-esteem and the impact of difficult/unknown early history take on added significance as children grow and mature into young adults. At The Cradle Center for Lifelong Support, I work with all members of the adoption circle My expertise is in strengthening children and their families by improving attachment, communication and understanding through individual/family therapy, parent coaching and education.
(847) 807-4280 View (847) 807-4280
Photo of Steven Spears, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Steven Spears
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629
My work focuses on where the client wishes, offering treatment for trauma, attachment issues, anxiety, depression, adoption/foster issues, life transitions, and much more.
Therapy is unique to every person. No matter if you are a teen or an adult, there are times in our lives when we need a helping hand or person to sit with us as we process and explore our inner selves or the impact life has on us. My practice is about being there with you and offering positive regard for you and the work you are doing, and developing a space that is safe for you to explore and heal wounds. I also supervision for new counselors hoping for an integrative approach to counseling as well as focus on the client and counselor (inquire about fees).
My work focuses on where the client wishes, offering treatment for trauma, attachment issues, anxiety, depression, adoption/foster issues, life transitions, and much more.
Therapy is unique to every person. No matter if you are a teen or an adult, there are times in our lives when we need a helping hand or person to sit with us as we process and explore our inner selves or the impact life has on us. My practice is about being there with you and offering positive regard for you and the work you are doing, and developing a space that is safe for you to explore and heal wounds. I also supervision for new counselors hoping for an integrative approach to counseling as well as focus on the client and counselor (inquire about fees).
(217) 262-1837 View (217) 262-1837
Photo of Margaret Anne Fleming, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Margaret Anne Fleming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
I treat addictions, abuse, relationship and adoption issues, .
Are you looking for an experienced, local therapist for yourself or a family member? I have had extensive experience, both professionally and personally, in treating both adults and children. who have suffered loss, childhood abuse, depression and shame. I am currently offering clients a choice between teletherapy or being seen in my Oak Park office.
I treat addictions, abuse, relationship and adoption issues, .
Are you looking for an experienced, local therapist for yourself or a family member? I have had extensive experience, both professionally and personally, in treating both adults and children. who have suffered loss, childhood abuse, depression and shame. I am currently offering clients a choice between teletherapy or being seen in my Oak Park office.
(708) 277-6978 View (708) 277-6978
Photo of Rachel E. S. Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Rachel E. S. Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Additionally I possess experiences with those touched by adoption, grief and loss, parenting challenges and fertility struggles.
Renew. Revive. Restore. The decision to begin therapy is a brave one. Embarking on a journey of healing is an investment in one's self. I seek to partner with clients on their quest to better understand themselves, their relationships and their lives. In the confines of a respectful, nurturing relationship, clients heal from their past and create a new narrative in which they can thrive.
Additionally I possess experiences with those touched by adoption, grief and loss, parenting challenges and fertility struggles.
Renew. Revive. Restore. The decision to begin therapy is a brave one. Embarking on a journey of healing is an investment in one's self. I seek to partner with clients on their quest to better understand themselves, their relationships and their lives. In the confines of a respectful, nurturing relationship, clients heal from their past and create a new narrative in which they can thrive.
(312) 651-6758 View (312) 651-6758
Photo of Tricia Sybesma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Tricia Sybesma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
I work with people at all points in life and have extensive experience in trauma, family of origin and relationship issues, foster care and adoption, attachment, parenting support, and life changes.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Maybe you’ve experienced a recent life change or event that is causing distress or discomfort. Maybe you’ve struggled with issues for a long time and have decided you have the desire and capacity to deal with it now. Maybe you’re looking for a place to process and reflect on the stressors that are part of daily life. Whatever your motivation for seeking support at this time, I’m glad you’re here and eager to learn more about how I can help.
I work with people at all points in life and have extensive experience in trauma, family of origin and relationship issues, foster care and adoption, attachment, parenting support, and life changes.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Maybe you’ve experienced a recent life change or event that is causing distress or discomfort. Maybe you’ve struggled with issues for a long time and have decided you have the desire and capacity to deal with it now. Maybe you’re looking for a place to process and reflect on the stressors that are part of daily life. Whatever your motivation for seeking support at this time, I’m glad you’re here and eager to learn more about how I can help.
(312) 818-1432 View (312) 818-1432
Photo of Maggie Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Maggie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
For families that choose to build their family through adoption, I provide holistic and ongoing support throughout the adoption process and beyond.
I work with adults, couples, adolescents and families around issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, infertility and trauma. I have been trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT). My clients describe my approach as warm and supportive yet straightforward. My goal is to help clients better understand their past so they can make positive changes for their future. I believe in empowering my clients to live their best lives and tailor my approach to each individual or family. I truly love the work that I do and I believe that comes through to my clients in the work that we do together.
For families that choose to build their family through adoption, I provide holistic and ongoing support throughout the adoption process and beyond.
I work with adults, couples, adolescents and families around issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, infertility and trauma. I have been trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT). My clients describe my approach as warm and supportive yet straightforward. My goal is to help clients better understand their past so they can make positive changes for their future. I believe in empowering my clients to live their best lives and tailor my approach to each individual or family. I truly love the work that I do and I believe that comes through to my clients in the work that we do together.
(773) 570-6914 View (773) 570-6914
Photo of Barbara deRamona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
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 Alissa Rotblatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Alissa Rotblatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Specialties: difficulties with relationships, depression and anxiety, significant life transitions, adoption and family struggles, difficulties in adolescence, emerging adulthood and young adulthood.
I specialize in providing therapy college aged adults, and young adults in their 20s and 30s who are experiencing mood and relationship difficulties. I help my clients to better understand patterns in their lives and use this insight to initiate changes in mood, intimacy/ connection, and to manage difficult emotions and challenges. The process of growth and healing is tied into the relationship between therapist and client. The quality of the "fit" is crucial. My goal is to help my clients find meaning in their struggles, understand their own symptoms, and find ways to live more fulfilling and creative lives.
Specialties: difficulties with relationships, depression and anxiety, significant life transitions, adoption and family struggles, difficulties in adolescence, emerging adulthood and young adulthood.
I specialize in providing therapy college aged adults, and young adults in their 20s and 30s who are experiencing mood and relationship difficulties. I help my clients to better understand patterns in their lives and use this insight to initiate changes in mood, intimacy/ connection, and to manage difficult emotions and challenges. The process of growth and healing is tied into the relationship between therapist and client. The quality of the "fit" is crucial. My goal is to help my clients find meaning in their struggles, understand their own symptoms, and find ways to live more fulfilling and creative lives.
(872) 233-4249 View (872) 233-4249
Photo of Lotus Root Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lotus Root Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
(773) 364-1625 View (773) 364-1625
Photo of Nosh Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nosh Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Our team works with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of constraints including issues with attachment, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, infidelity, divorce, blended families, adoption, gender/sexual identity exploration, trauma, grief and loss, phase-of-life, self-development, multiculturalism, and immigration.
As a therapist, I believe in the power of self-awareness in helping people overcome adversity. Trained in Systems Therapy at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, my orientation is to use relationships to strengthen our understanding of one another, and of ourselves. I value the humanistic experience most of all, and strive to learn as much as possible about one's past motivations and ways of coping. I also believe that the therapeutic relationship is the key ingredient in effecting change. I use compassion and acceptance as tools to help create space for that change.
Our team works with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of constraints including issues with attachment, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, infidelity, divorce, blended families, adoption, gender/sexual identity exploration, trauma, grief and loss, phase-of-life, self-development, multiculturalism, and immigration.
As a therapist, I believe in the power of self-awareness in helping people overcome adversity. Trained in Systems Therapy at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, my orientation is to use relationships to strengthen our understanding of one another, and of ourselves. I value the humanistic experience most of all, and strive to learn as much as possible about one's past motivations and ways of coping. I also believe that the therapeutic relationship is the key ingredient in effecting change. I use compassion and acceptance as tools to help create space for that change.
(630) 560-6733 View (630) 560-6733
Photo of Stacie Carr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Stacie Carr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60617
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and older adolescent children who are struggling with, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting struggles, PTSD, marital and divorce problems, somatization, aging, adoption/foster care, and grief along with many others.
My name is Stacie Carr, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have had my clinical license for 13 years and I have experience working with children, adults, and adolescents in a clinical setting. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
I have experience working with adults, teenagers, and older adolescent children who are struggling with, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting struggles, PTSD, marital and divorce problems, somatization, aging, adoption/foster care, and grief along with many others.
My name is Stacie Carr, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois. I have had my clinical license for 13 years and I have experience working with children, adults, and adolescents in a clinical setting. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(773) 839-7572 View (773) 839-7572
Photo of Raquel Wu, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Raquel Wu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
I also specialize in working with victims of domestic and sexual abuse of all ages (3 - 60+), transgender folks, adoption, multi-cultural families and relationships, and more.
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
I also specialize in working with victims of domestic and sexual abuse of all ages (3 - 60+), transgender folks, adoption, multi-cultural families and relationships, and more.
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
(773) 692-0273 View (773) 692-0273
Photo of Dr. Sarah Pekoc, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Sarah Pekoc
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has the ability to heal from difficult life experiences and move forward to live a fulfilling and joyful life. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults through the healing process after they have been exposed to traumatic life events such as abuse/neglect, adoption, divorce, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, medical trauma, and other life stressors. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumas, caregivers experiencing postpartum/parenting difficulties, early childhood populations, and parent-child relationship issues.
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has the ability to heal from difficult life experiences and move forward to live a fulfilling and joyful life. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults through the healing process after they have been exposed to traumatic life events such as abuse/neglect, adoption, divorce, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, medical trauma, and other life stressors. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumas, caregivers experiencing postpartum/parenting difficulties, early childhood populations, and parent-child relationship issues.
(773) 492-6869 View (773) 492-6869
Photo of Sara Forsythe Menna, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sara Forsythe Menna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
An area of professional interest is adoption, infertility, and relationship issues.
I believe that we all deserve to feel our best and experience joy in our relationships and lives. The therapeutic process can help develop a deeper understanding of our true selves and ourselves in relation to others. Through this understanding growth can occur.
An area of professional interest is adoption, infertility, and relationship issues.
I believe that we all deserve to feel our best and experience joy in our relationships and lives. The therapeutic process can help develop a deeper understanding of our true selves and ourselves in relation to others. Through this understanding growth can occur.
(773) 492-6552 View (773) 492-6552
Photo of Ann M Bergart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Ann M Bergart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
This can be a very difficult period -- of emotional recovery, and decision-making about adoption vs.
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
This can be a very difficult period -- of emotional recovery, and decision-making about adoption vs.
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
(847) 416-0616 View (847) 416-0616
Photo of EmboldenYOU, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
EmboldenYOU, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Adoption and work with trauma are two of my primary focuses in my work.
Accepting New Clients ! You're ready, now let's get started. The process of therapy allows you to to have guidance, validation, and accountability in your journey towards a more balanced and healthy life. Don't turn back now, let today be the day that your life changes. I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for my clients so that they can access the vulnerable parts of themselves and manifest the lives they desire.
Adoption and work with trauma are two of my primary focuses in my work.
Accepting New Clients ! You're ready, now let's get started. The process of therapy allows you to to have guidance, validation, and accountability in your journey towards a more balanced and healthy life. Don't turn back now, let today be the day that your life changes. I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for my clients so that they can access the vulnerable parts of themselves and manifest the lives they desire.
(312) 471-0638 View (312) 471-0638
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.