Photo of Dori Fujii, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
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 Steven Spears, Counselor in Illinois
Steven Spears
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Quincy, IL 62301
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 Leah A' Hearn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
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
Photo of Kristi M Finn, Counselor in Illinois
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 Deva Suckerman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois
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 Kristen Marie Scott, Counselor in Illinois
Kristen Marie Scott
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Beecher, IL 60401
Whether you are struggling with a typical life transition such as: marriage, divorce, adoption, or death, or suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, or self-harm/sabotaging behaviors, therapy will be tailored to your individual situation.
I believe that, without exception, every individual carries within, the capacity required for healing to occur. As a therapist, it is my honor and privilege to help clients and their families uncover and understand the meanings and feelings associated with their symptoms. Whether the primary client is a child, adolescent, or adult, I work collaboratively with couples/parents to create a treatment plan that is right for the family as a whole. From this perspective we can then work together to discover more adaptive and creative ways to solve problems, build relationships, and live rich and fulfilling lives.
Whether you are struggling with a typical life transition such as: marriage, divorce, adoption, or death, or suffering from anxiety, anger, depression, or self-harm/sabotaging behaviors, therapy will be tailored to your individual situation.
I believe that, without exception, every individual carries within, the capacity required for healing to occur. As a therapist, it is my honor and privilege to help clients and their families uncover and understand the meanings and feelings associated with their symptoms. Whether the primary client is a child, adolescent, or adult, I work collaboratively with couples/parents to create a treatment plan that is right for the family as a whole. From this perspective we can then work together to discover more adaptive and creative ways to solve problems, build relationships, and live rich and fulfilling lives.
(773) 598-4532 View (773) 598-4532
Photo of Hannah Dobson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Illinois
Hannah Dobson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
I have previous experience in the mental health therapy field including work with survivors of abuse, crisis intervention, adoption, trauma, grief, and community-based therapy for children, adolescents, couples, and families.
My approach to therapy is holistic and collaborative. With a listening ear, my commitment to you is to use the knowledge, insight, perspective and tools I have learned as a professional therapist to partner with you to gain greater self-awareness, manage stress more effectively and be empowered to find positive paths forward. It is my goal to help people of all ages, backgrounds and sexual orientations succeed in achieving their desired goals. I understand the importance of finding connection with your therapist. When seeking help, one often feels vulnerable. I will provide a safe space as we process struggles towards resolution.
I have previous experience in the mental health therapy field including work with survivors of abuse, crisis intervention, adoption, trauma, grief, and community-based therapy for children, adolescents, couples, and families.
My approach to therapy is holistic and collaborative. With a listening ear, my commitment to you is to use the knowledge, insight, perspective and tools I have learned as a professional therapist to partner with you to gain greater self-awareness, manage stress more effectively and be empowered to find positive paths forward. It is my goal to help people of all ages, backgrounds and sexual orientations succeed in achieving their desired goals. I understand the importance of finding connection with your therapist. When seeking help, one often feels vulnerable. I will provide a safe space as we process struggles towards resolution.
(309) 245-8584 View (309) 245-8584
Photo of Rose Mary Spizzirri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Rose Mary Spizzirri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
We have advanced training helping people with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, adoption and difficult behaviors with children or adolescents.
Everyone goes through times of struggle and needs someone to listen, reflect and help them move forward. We specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 25 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
We have advanced training helping people with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, adoption and difficult behaviors with children or adolescents.
Everyone goes through times of struggle and needs someone to listen, reflect and help them move forward. We specialize in working with persons who have experienced trauma, abuse or neglect. Trauma can lead to many life issues & symptoms that we can help you manage & alleviate. Using trauma-informed attachment focused psychotherapy we provide parents with therapeutic skills to help their children heal. I have worked with families, kids, & adults for 25 of years who have various mental illnesses and emotional challenges. Everyone deserves happiness & we can help you through the healing process to restore your mind, body & spirit.
(708) 697-8009 View (708) 697-8009
Photo of Rock River Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Rock River Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Byron, IL 61010  (Online Only)
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a specialized focus and training in trauma, adoption, and attachment. I have completed trainings in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Adoption competency (TAC), Brainspotting (BSP), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). My approach to clients is relaxed, compassionate, and most importantly, non judgmental. I take great care to create a sense of felt safety in order for clients to freely share and process painful emotions and experiences to achieve greater well being and happiness. At this time, I offer Telehealth exclusively.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a specialized focus and training in trauma, adoption, and attachment. I have completed trainings in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Adoption competency (TAC), Brainspotting (BSP), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). My approach to clients is relaxed, compassionate, and most importantly, non judgmental. I take great care to create a sense of felt safety in order for clients to freely share and process painful emotions and experiences to achieve greater well being and happiness. At this time, I offer Telehealth exclusively.
(608) 200-3134 View (608) 200-3134
Photo of Karyn Schwitters, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Karyn Schwitters, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
My special interests include parent-child relational issues, parenting and child behavior issues, women's issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, fertility and adoption, attachment, and stress-coping.
I believe in the importance of each individual and in honoring your story, and it is my sole purpose to have clients feel valued and understood, within a trusting, open minded relationship. I operate from a strengths based perspective, offering hope and healing to individuals and families. Testimonial:: "My oldest son and I have worked with Karyn for about three years. She has truly been the light at the end of a very difficult and dark tunnel. Our family will forever be very grateful for her help! Karyn is truly gifted at what she does."
My special interests include parent-child relational issues, parenting and child behavior issues, women's issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, fertility and adoption, attachment, and stress-coping.
I believe in the importance of each individual and in honoring your story, and it is my sole purpose to have clients feel valued and understood, within a trusting, open minded relationship. I operate from a strengths based perspective, offering hope and healing to individuals and families. Testimonial:: "My oldest son and I have worked with Karyn for about three years. She has truly been the light at the end of a very difficult and dark tunnel. Our family will forever be very grateful for her help! Karyn is truly gifted at what she does."
(779) 223-1788 View (779) 223-1788
Photo of Karen Fretzin, Counselor in Illinois
Karen Fretzin
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Northfield, IL 60093
I have been working for 20+ years with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I am a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I also focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, adolescent turmoil, adoption issues, healthy parenting, and family/relationship issues. My passion also includes working with young adults and adults on exploring personal growth and life management issues. I have created an alternative to suspension program in numerous local high schools.
I have been working for 20+ years with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I am a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I also focus on depression, anxiety, ADHD, adolescent turmoil, adoption issues, healthy parenting, and family/relationship issues. My passion also includes working with young adults and adults on exploring personal growth and life management issues. I have created an alternative to suspension program in numerous local high schools.
(847) 807-1098 View (847) 807-1098
Photo of David Paul Margolis, Counselor in Illinois
David Paul Margolis
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Over the years I have used most best practice treatment methods to help kids and families manage: behavior/discipline problems, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, oppositional and defiant behavior, adoption and attachment issues, marital and relationship concerns.
I help children, teens, parents, couples and families to solve and cope with the challenges that life presents to all of us. I'll listen to you with empathy and caring, and offer my education and long years of experience to help you along your path to change.
Over the years I have used most best practice treatment methods to help kids and families manage: behavior/discipline problems, depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, oppositional and defiant behavior, adoption and attachment issues, marital and relationship concerns.
I help children, teens, parents, couples and families to solve and cope with the challenges that life presents to all of us. I'll listen to you with empathy and caring, and offer my education and long years of experience to help you along your path to change.
(224) 534-6305 View (224) 534-6305
Photo of Nicole Massey-Hastings, Psychologist in Illinois
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 James Carroll, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois
James Carroll
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT-S, ACS
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
I have several areas of specialization: younger children, adoption/attachment, neurodivergent individuals, and individuals dealing with stress and trauma.
You or your child may be having difficulty at work, school, home, with friends, or with family members and you are not sure what to do about it! These difficulties may include difficulty managing emotions, worrying about things, problems with attention, and/or getting along and connecting with other people. You may feel that you have tried everything to help yourself and/or your child and nothing seems to work. There is a ton of information available-friends, social media, etc. All this information can be conflicting and make things even more overwhelming. You don't have to do this alone. Therapy can help you or your child!
I have several areas of specialization: younger children, adoption/attachment, neurodivergent individuals, and individuals dealing with stress and trauma.
You or your child may be having difficulty at work, school, home, with friends, or with family members and you are not sure what to do about it! These difficulties may include difficulty managing emotions, worrying about things, problems with attention, and/or getting along and connecting with other people. You may feel that you have tried everything to help yourself and/or your child and nothing seems to work. There is a ton of information available-friends, social media, etc. All this information can be conflicting and make things even more overwhelming. You don't have to do this alone. Therapy can help you or your child!
(618) 693-2650 View (618) 693-2650
Photo of Jennifer Lynn Galle, Counselor in Illinois
Jennifer Lynn Galle
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Orland Park, IL 60467
Primarily, I gained a great deal of my experience working with the Department of Children and Family services, providing trauma based counseling, family reunification, adoption preparation, behavioral management training, parenting coaching, and family counseling.
Hello, and thanks for visiting! My name is Jennifer Galle MA, LCPC, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. As a clinician, I pride myself on taking both an eclectic and holistic approach to treatment, and work collaboratively with my clients to identify their therapeutic goals, and then we develop a plan to achieve them together. My therapeutic methods focus on tackling the most problematic emotions and behaviors quickly to provide the most immediate results possible. Overall, I view myself as a knowledgeable guide and source of support along this journey, and recognize that my clients are the focus.
Primarily, I gained a great deal of my experience working with the Department of Children and Family services, providing trauma based counseling, family reunification, adoption preparation, behavioral management training, parenting coaching, and family counseling.
Hello, and thanks for visiting! My name is Jennifer Galle MA, LCPC, and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois. As a clinician, I pride myself on taking both an eclectic and holistic approach to treatment, and work collaboratively with my clients to identify their therapeutic goals, and then we develop a plan to achieve them together. My therapeutic methods focus on tackling the most problematic emotions and behaviors quickly to provide the most immediate results possible. Overall, I view myself as a knowledgeable guide and source of support along this journey, and recognize that my clients are the focus.
(708) 328-3481 View (708) 328-3481
Photo of Mihaela Bernard, Counselor in Illinois
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 Warren Matson, Counselor in Illinois
Warren Matson
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
After serving a wide range of clients, I have focused in on family systems and working with family members to insure the best outcomes for parents, cohesion for couples, and stability for children, thus working with individuals of all ages, families and couples. In family work I have had extensive experience with issues related to adoption and foster parenting. I also work with individuals addressing a wide range of issues that may or may not be directly related to family and relationships. In addition, I facilitate equine assisted therapy, focusing on addressing boundaries, assertiveness, emotional regulation, and confidence.
After serving a wide range of clients, I have focused in on family systems and working with family members to insure the best outcomes for parents, cohesion for couples, and stability for children, thus working with individuals of all ages, families and couples. In family work I have had extensive experience with issues related to adoption and foster parenting. I also work with individuals addressing a wide range of issues that may or may not be directly related to family and relationships. In addition, I facilitate equine assisted therapy, focusing on addressing boundaries, assertiveness, emotional regulation, and confidence.
(630) 463-6177 View (630) 463-6177
Photo of Angela Pezza Conway, Psychologist in Illinois
Angela Pezza Conway
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, in a variety of mental health settings including: hospitals, private practice, therapeutic day schools, and community mental health. I specialize in the treatment of Mood, Personality, Trauma and Attachment disorder. My special interests include Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Issues regarding Divorce, Adoption Issues, Personality Disorders, Parent Education/Training, Post-Partum Depression and Transgender issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, in a variety of mental health settings including: hospitals, private practice, therapeutic day schools, and community mental health. I specialize in the treatment of Mood, Personality, Trauma and Attachment disorder. My special interests include Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Issues regarding Divorce, Adoption Issues, Personality Disorders, Parent Education/Training, Post-Partum Depression and Transgender issues.
(630) 884-4366 View (630) 884-4366
Joyce L Bechtel-Worthy Life Wellness Pllc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
I have experience with, adoption preservation, PTSD, behavioral problems, anger management, sexual abuse victims, grief, relationship issues, anxiety and depression and more. By utilizing several therapeutic modalities including CBT, Solution Focused, and Strength Based Therapy, I am able to equip clients to develop skills to manage their challenges.
I have experience with, adoption preservation, PTSD, behavioral problems, anger management, sexual abuse victims, grief, relationship issues, anxiety and depression and more. By utilizing several therapeutic modalities including CBT, Solution Focused, and Strength Based Therapy, I am able to equip clients to develop skills to manage their challenges.
(844) 960-2951 View (844) 960-2951
Photo of Cheryl Renee Runion, Counselor in Illinois
Cheryl Renee Runion
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LSOE, LSOTP, CADC
Verified Verified
Elgin, IL 60120
Completed National Adoption Competency M.
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
Completed National Adoption Competency M.
I have 38 yrs of success working with various diverse populations; focused on using innovative methods to design therapy around individual, family and couples needs & life goals. I am invested in helping my clients overcome personal struggles and succeed in achieving their goals and desired changes. I enjoy working with teens/young adults and their families and are successful in guiding the family system through the tough journey of adolescence and launching into independence. I use new concepts in the M.H. field to adapt therapy to individual client needs as changes in our society create new clinical concerns in our daily lives.
(847) 641-2372 x2 View (847) 641-2372 x2
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.