Adoption Therapists in Dixon, IL

Photo of Shannon C Dean, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Dixon, IL
Shannon C Dean
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dixon, IL 61021
Waitlist for new clients
I've provided a wide variety of behavioral health services over the past 20+ years in a variety of community settings. During that time, I've had the opportunity to help families, individuals, and couples on their journey to be their healthiest version of themselves. It is my belief that we all strive to be as healthy as we can. However, sometimes we need support, new skills, and a dedicated time to reflect on the changes we will make. I am honored to have clients share their journey with me and to be given the opportunity to help clients attain personal growth. I am devoted to helping clients achieve their goals.
I've provided a wide variety of behavioral health services over the past 20+ years in a variety of community settings. During that time, I've had the opportunity to help families, individuals, and couples on their journey to be their healthiest version of themselves. It is my belief that we all strive to be as healthy as we can. However, sometimes we need support, new skills, and a dedicated time to reflect on the changes we will make. I am honored to have clients share their journey with me and to be given the opportunity to help clients attain personal growth. I am devoted to helping clients achieve their goals.
(779) 228-4063 View (779) 228-4063

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Streets, Counselor in Dixon, IL
Jennifer Streets
Counselor, LMHC, LPHA, LCPC, CFM
Verified Verified
Sterling, IL 61081
I have worked in the mental health field for more 20 years following a career as a junior and senior high teacher. I have experience with everyone from very young children to elderly individuals. I believe firmly in the individual's ability to change if they so desire, regardless of education level, socioeconomic status, or past challenges. I approach all people with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Acceptance and kindness are important traits and ones I strive to show each and every person I meet, whether that is within my office or at the grocery store.
I have worked in the mental health field for more 20 years following a career as a junior and senior high teacher. I have experience with everyone from very young children to elderly individuals. I believe firmly in the individual's ability to change if they so desire, regardless of education level, socioeconomic status, or past challenges. I approach all people with an open mind and a non-judgmental attitude. Acceptance and kindness are important traits and ones I strive to show each and every person I meet, whether that is within my office or at the grocery store.
(779) 237-8267 View (779) 237-8267

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Walbridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dixon, IL
Jennifer Walbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Waitlist for new clients
I have a deep understanding of complex trauma, autism, and adoption-specific issues.
I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions in an individually tailored way to address issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment, PTSD and complex trauma. and attachment I will work with you to create a clear plan for goals we will address in therapy and the strategies that will help you achieve those goals. I believe in a high degree of transparency and accountability in the therapy process; I take a collaborative approach strives to ensure you will always understand the what, why, and how of our therapeutic journey together.
I have a deep understanding of complex trauma, autism, and adoption-specific issues.
I work with children, adolescents, adults and families. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions in an individually tailored way to address issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment, PTSD and complex trauma. and attachment I will work with you to create a clear plan for goals we will address in therapy and the strategies that will help you achieve those goals. I believe in a high degree of transparency and accountability in the therapy process; I take a collaborative approach strives to ensure you will always understand the what, why, and how of our therapeutic journey together.
(309) 485-5909 View (309) 485-5909
Photo of Kathleen Seelbach, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Dixon, IL
Kathleen Seelbach
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
My name is Kathleen Seelbach, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been licensed for 23 years. I use an eclectic approach to counseling with an emphasis on building a solid relationship with clients. I believe all of us have innate strengths that allow us to grow and enhance our lives when we are provided with the right kind of support and assistance. I have strengths in working with trauma survivors, particularly those who have experienced sexual abuse and sexual assault. I also have a background in working with the LGBTQ+ community. I also have experience in child welfare, including foster care and adoption.
My name is Kathleen Seelbach, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have been licensed for 23 years. I use an eclectic approach to counseling with an emphasis on building a solid relationship with clients. I believe all of us have innate strengths that allow us to grow and enhance our lives when we are provided with the right kind of support and assistance. I have strengths in working with trauma survivors, particularly those who have experienced sexual abuse and sexual assault. I also have a background in working with the LGBTQ+ community. I also have experience in child welfare, including foster care and adoption.
(773) 570-7629 View (773) 570-7629
Photo of Caitlin Lantz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dixon, IL
Caitlin Lantz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701  (Online Only)
I work with anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, self-esteem, family-of-origin concerns, adoption, and more.
Has your life taken an unexpected detour? Maybe it's a chaotic relationship, unrelating anxiety or navigating difficult family dynamics. Whatever your struggles might be, fighting these battles on your own can be difficult, painful and sometimes overwhelming. However, there is an incredible amount of power in a strong therapeutic relationship where you can process life with someone who desires to fully understand you with a lens of compassion and empathy.
I work with anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, self-esteem, family-of-origin concerns, adoption, and more.
Has your life taken an unexpected detour? Maybe it's a chaotic relationship, unrelating anxiety or navigating difficult family dynamics. Whatever your struggles might be, fighting these battles on your own can be difficult, painful and sometimes overwhelming. However, there is an incredible amount of power in a strong therapeutic relationship where you can process life with someone who desires to fully understand you with a lens of compassion and empathy.
(217) 216-9157 View (217) 216-9157
Photo of Tricia Sybesma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dixon, 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 Jodi Stelley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dixon, IL
Jodi Stelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize in working with the adoptee community and exploring ways adoption has shaped 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. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment wherein each client can be their full selves. 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 an individual gain a clearer understanding of themselves while providing tools to help manage life more successfully.
I also specialize in working with the adoptee community and exploring ways adoption has shaped 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. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment wherein each client can be their full selves. 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 an individual gain a clearer understanding of themselves while providing tools to help manage life more successfully.
(224) 808-5257 View (224) 808-5257
Photo of Helene A Jacques, Counselor in Dixon, IL
Helene A Jacques
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60516  (Online Only)
Helene Jacques is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor who has been in practice since 2000. She sees adolescents and adults for individual and family therapy. Helene has extensive experience working with clients dealing with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adoption concerns, relationship problems, stress management, medical and health concerns, and post-abortion issues. Helene was trained in an eclectic model of therapy and relies on this knowledge base to select effective treatment approaches for each client or family.
Helene Jacques is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor who has been in practice since 2000. She sees adolescents and adults for individual and family therapy. Helene has extensive experience working with clients dealing with lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, adoption concerns, relationship problems, stress management, medical and health concerns, and post-abortion issues. Helene was trained in an eclectic model of therapy and relies on this knowledge base to select effective treatment approaches for each client or family.
(630) 599-8674 View (630) 599-8674
Photo of Deva Suckerman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Dixon, IL
Deva Suckerman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
Tough starts, early trauma, and missing pieces in our life story can affect how we feel about ourselves, connect to others, and manage day to day. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I have 25 years of experience working with children, youth and families in the context of child welfare. I am trained in adoption-competent mental health and have extensive experience working with individuals with developmental trauma, including those impacted by foster care. Looking at challenges through this lens can shed new light on what is happening and what is needed to move forward with less struggle and greater connection.
Tough starts, early trauma, and missing pieces in our life story can affect how we feel about ourselves, connect to others, and manage day to day. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I have 25 years of experience working with children, youth and families in the context of child welfare. I am trained in adoption-competent mental health and have extensive experience working with individuals with developmental trauma, including those impacted by foster care. Looking at challenges through this lens can shed new light on what is happening and what is needed to move forward with less struggle and greater connection.
(847) 232-6185 View (847) 232-6185
Photo of Dori Fujii, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dixon, IL
Dori Fujii
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
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 Phyllis Laughlin, Counselor in Dixon, IL
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 Alexandra Kutnick, Psychologist in Dixon, IL
Alexandra Kutnick
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
I provide therapy that is collaborative, understanding and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, problematic substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges managing and coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
I provide therapy that is collaborative, understanding and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, problematic substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges managing and coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
(872) 228-2144 View (872) 228-2144
Photo of Linda Bartoli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dixon, IL
Linda Bartoli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Life changes, gender, identity, adoption, loss, grief and trauma, are all areas of mental wellness.
I am the founding director Pivot Collaborative. A a queer person, I aimed to build a diverse group practice for people who are passionate and curious about other people- people who like to challenge and support people and organizations through change processes – people who are LGBTQIA+ or queer allied – people who are focused on race, gender and the intersections of identity- people who work to change oppressive systems and people who enjoy collaboration on multiple levels.
Life changes, gender, identity, adoption, loss, grief and trauma, are all areas of mental wellness.
I am the founding director Pivot Collaborative. A a queer person, I aimed to build a diverse group practice for people who are passionate and curious about other people- people who like to challenge and support people and organizations through change processes – people who are LGBTQIA+ or queer allied – people who are focused on race, gender and the intersections of identity- people who work to change oppressive systems and people who enjoy collaboration on multiple levels.
(872) 666-9807 View (872) 666-9807
Photo of Mihaela Bernard, Counselor in Dixon, IL
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 Lisa Rouff, Psychologist in Dixon, IL
Lisa Rouff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Grayslake, IL 60030
I have helped numerous individuals and couples undergoing infertility treatment and adoption to weather the emotional stresses involved and in successfully building their families.
I have extensive experience and training working with adults in both individual and couples therapy on such issues as depression, anxiety, career problems, and relationship difficulties. relationship difficulties. In addition, I also specialize in the areas of infertility and adoption.
I have helped numerous individuals and couples undergoing infertility treatment and adoption to weather the emotional stresses involved and in successfully building their families.
I have extensive experience and training working with adults in both individual and couples therapy on such issues as depression, anxiety, career problems, and relationship difficulties. relationship difficulties. In addition, I also specialize in the areas of infertility and adoption.
(847) 302-0411 View (847) 302-0411
Photo of Rhonda Kelloway, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dixon, IL
Rhonda Kelloway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
I am very relational and at times draw on my own life experience, including infertility, adoption, grief, dealing with a loved one's addiction, and divorce.
In-person and telehealth sessions available. Falling apart? Stuck? At a crossroads? I can help. We start where you are, and map out a path to where you want to be, tackling the obstacles standing in the way of your thriving. My techniques include EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, research-backed therapies that often work for people who have made slow or no progress with other therapies. I'm also trained in several types of somatic touch, which can accelerate your progress if you choose to use touch. My goal is to get you back to your best life as quickly as possible!
I am very relational and at times draw on my own life experience, including infertility, adoption, grief, dealing with a loved one's addiction, and divorce.
In-person and telehealth sessions available. Falling apart? Stuck? At a crossroads? I can help. We start where you are, and map out a path to where you want to be, tackling the obstacles standing in the way of your thriving. My techniques include EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, research-backed therapies that often work for people who have made slow or no progress with other therapies. I'm also trained in several types of somatic touch, which can accelerate your progress if you choose to use touch. My goal is to get you back to your best life as quickly as possible!
(630) 708-2994 View (630) 708-2994
Photo of Barbara deRamona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dixon, 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 Kristi M Finn, Counselor in Dixon, IL
Kristi M Finn
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and founding partner of Compass Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC, who is passionate about empowering individuals and families to achieve personal growth, improve emotional regulation and foster positive relationships. I enjoy utilizing my training on attachment and brain development to assist in coping with the effects of trauma, loss, divorce, disrupted attachments, adoption, depression and anxiety. Using a collaborative and relational approach, I strive to help individuals and couples establish and maintain healthy relationships, as well as strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and founding partner of Compass Behavioral Health and Wellness, LLC, who is passionate about empowering individuals and families to achieve personal growth, improve emotional regulation and foster positive relationships. I enjoy utilizing my training on attachment and brain development to assist in coping with the effects of trauma, loss, divorce, disrupted attachments, adoption, depression and anxiety. Using a collaborative and relational approach, I strive to help individuals and couples establish and maintain healthy relationships, as well as strengthen their ability to cope with stressful life events
(331) 701-2930 x2 View (331) 701-2930 x2
Photo of Nghia Le, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dixon, 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 Nosh Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dixon, 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

See more therapy options for Dixon

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.