Photo of Colleen Norwell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Norwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Waitlist for new clients
Her special interests include adoption, divorce, trauma, and relationships.
Colleen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys collaborating with adolescents and adults in order to help them make changes that will allow them to find balance, and an enhanced quality of life. Having worked closely with adoptive families, families experiencing crisis and violence in the home, veterans, and individuals managing severe and persistent mental illness, Colleen is well versed in the treatment of trauma, attachment, mood, and anxiety disorders.
Her special interests include adoption, divorce, trauma, and relationships.
Colleen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys collaborating with adolescents and adults in order to help them make changes that will allow them to find balance, and an enhanced quality of life. Having worked closely with adoptive families, families experiencing crisis and violence in the home, veterans, and individuals managing severe and persistent mental illness, Colleen is well versed in the treatment of trauma, attachment, mood, and anxiety disorders.
(630) 361-0238 View (630) 361-0238
Photo of Kristi M Finn, MA, LCPC, Counselor
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 Bree Yoo Sun Jeong McLuen, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bree Yoo Sun Jeong McLuen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60609
I have provided gentle, person-centered, compassionate services and treatment most extensively to individuals who identify as women, people of color, immigrants, survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, criminal justice/prison, child welfare/ adoption, and athletes.
Life brings forth challenges and stressors each day. For individuals, families, and communities whose lives and histories meet at multiple intersections, managing everyday life while working toward healing and growth may present additional, unique layers and compounded difficulties. Whatever your dreams, goals, and aspirations for life and relationships are, making them a reality is possible. Healing from the past, self-love, spiritual peace, decolonization, and success are interconnected.
I have provided gentle, person-centered, compassionate services and treatment most extensively to individuals who identify as women, people of color, immigrants, survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, criminal justice/prison, child welfare/ adoption, and athletes.
Life brings forth challenges and stressors each day. For individuals, families, and communities whose lives and histories meet at multiple intersections, managing everyday life while working toward healing and growth may present additional, unique layers and compounded difficulties. Whatever your dreams, goals, and aspirations for life and relationships are, making them a reality is possible. Healing from the past, self-love, spiritual peace, decolonization, and success are interconnected.
(708) 894-1672 View (708) 894-1672
Photo of Karyn Roggatz Ness, MS MA, LCPC
Karyn Roggatz Ness
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Adoption issues.
It is my goal to work with people of all ages, and simply meet them where they are. I hope to motivate my clients to make changes that will enhance the quality of their lives, working from the most appropriate theoretical models that suit each person's needs.
Adoption issues.
It is my goal to work with people of all ages, and simply meet them where they are. I hope to motivate my clients to make changes that will enhance the quality of their lives, working from the most appropriate theoretical models that suit each person's needs.
(847) 750-3897 View (847) 750-3897
Photo of Jan Appel Holmes - Jan Holmes Counseling, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jan Holmes Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people around issues of shame that result from addictions, co-dependency, trauma, adoption related issues and more.
I specialize in working with people around issues of shame that result from addictions, co-dependency, trauma, adoption related issues and more.
(309) 644-4758 View (309) 644-4758
Photo of Margaret Anne Fleming, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Anne Fleming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
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 Jessica Gregg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Gregg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61108
I also have extensive experience with the child welfare system, foster care, and adoption with expertise in childhood trauma and the impact of trauma.
My goal as a therapist is to create a space where my clients feel safe exploring their stories, experience healing, and find their true selves. I take a person-centered and systemic approach so that I can understand my client's life story and the events that have brought them to seeking services.
I also have extensive experience with the child welfare system, foster care, and adoption with expertise in childhood trauma and the impact of trauma.
My goal as a therapist is to create a space where my clients feel safe exploring their stories, experience healing, and find their true selves. I take a person-centered and systemic approach so that I can understand my client's life story and the events that have brought them to seeking services.
(815) 374-7457 View (815) 374-7457
Photo of Rose Mary Spizzirri, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Alex Goreham, LCSW, CRADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Goreham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I specialize in trauma, adoption, addictions, attachment, depression, anxiety, and faith/spirituality.
Hey there! My name is Alex. Life can be a tricky journey, sometimes it is full of excitement and fun, and other times it can really be tough. I don't believe we were created to walk this life alone, especially through those difficult moments. That's where therapy comes in. To be honest with you, I don't have the power to change you and that is not my goal. My job as a therapist is to come alongside you and help you rediscover yourself and your potential. With a greater understanding of who you are and where you have been, comes the opportunity for change to create a new normal.
I specialize in trauma, adoption, addictions, attachment, depression, anxiety, and faith/spirituality.
Hey there! My name is Alex. Life can be a tricky journey, sometimes it is full of excitement and fun, and other times it can really be tough. I don't believe we were created to walk this life alone, especially through those difficult moments. That's where therapy comes in. To be honest with you, I don't have the power to change you and that is not my goal. My job as a therapist is to come alongside you and help you rediscover yourself and your potential. With a greater understanding of who you are and where you have been, comes the opportunity for change to create a new normal.
(331) 204-1773 View (331) 204-1773
Photo of Kristen Marie Scott, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
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 Lucinda Briesemeister - Rock River Therapy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Tricia Sybesma, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Joanna Villacorta Griffin, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Villacorta Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. I support those experiencing life changes, such as pregnancy, new parenthood, fertility issues, work stress, divorce, adoption, and traumatic experiences. I specialize in family issues (both families being created and one’s family of origin), especially parents who want to dig into how their life experiences impact them as they raise their own children. I also care deeply about first- and second-generation Americans grappling with the nexus of culture and mental health. I am a proud Filipina, parent of three, and daughter of immigrants.
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. I support those experiencing life changes, such as pregnancy, new parenthood, fertility issues, work stress, divorce, adoption, and traumatic experiences. I specialize in family issues (both families being created and one’s family of origin), especially parents who want to dig into how their life experiences impact them as they raise their own children. I also care deeply about first- and second-generation Americans grappling with the nexus of culture and mental health. I am a proud Filipina, parent of three, and daughter of immigrants.
(773) 687-5072 View (773) 687-5072
Photo of Kayla Adams, MA, LCPC
Kayla Adams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Swansea, IL 62226
My expertise encompasses interventions tailored to children and adolescents, as well as issues pertaining to parenting, family dynamics, attachment insecurities, adoption, anxiety, depression, anger management, aggression, communication patterns, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem cultivation, trauma resolution, and various mental health concerns.
If you are experiencing areas in your life you want to see improvement, I am here to support you on that journey. Together we can set goals and develop strategies to enhance your day-to-day functioning. Through fostering a trusting therapeutic alliance, you can feel empowered to embark on a journey of healing and personal growth.
My expertise encompasses interventions tailored to children and adolescents, as well as issues pertaining to parenting, family dynamics, attachment insecurities, adoption, anxiety, depression, anger management, aggression, communication patterns, interpersonal relationships, self-esteem cultivation, trauma resolution, and various mental health concerns.
If you are experiencing areas in your life you want to see improvement, I am here to support you on that journey. Together we can set goals and develop strategies to enhance your day-to-day functioning. Through fostering a trusting therapeutic alliance, you can feel empowered to embark on a journey of healing and personal growth.
(618) 205-9673 View (618) 205-9673
Photo of Lindsey Kovalik Bianchini, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Kovalik Bianchini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174  (Online Only)
I frequently work with young adults and teenagers, anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, school stress, foster care, adoption, cancer/oncology, and self harm behaviors.
I am licensed in Illinois, North Carolina, and South Carolina - which means if you are inside those states - we can work together! Are you looking for someone to listen to what you're feeling without judgement? Do you or you child feel constantly worried or afraid? Do you or you child feel hopeless, helpless, or feel unlovable? I will provide you with a safe place, a listening ear, and an open mind. I will work to meet you/your child where you/they are at in your/their mental health journey.
I frequently work with young adults and teenagers, anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, school stress, foster care, adoption, cancer/oncology, and self harm behaviors.
I am licensed in Illinois, North Carolina, and South Carolina - which means if you are inside those states - we can work together! Are you looking for someone to listen to what you're feeling without judgement? Do you or you child feel constantly worried or afraid? Do you or you child feel hopeless, helpless, or feel unlovable? I will provide you with a safe place, a listening ear, and an open mind. I will work to meet you/your child where you/they are at in your/their mental health journey.
(331) 210-9134 View (331) 210-9134
Photo of Alexandra Kutnick, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Alexandra Kutnick
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
Ar Morningside Counseling and Assessment, I provide therapy that is collaborative 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, 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 coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
Ar Morningside Counseling and Assessment, I provide therapy that is collaborative 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, 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 coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
(872) 228-2144 View (872) 228-2144
Photo of Cheryl Renee Runion, MA, LCPC, LSOE, LSOTP, CADC, Counselor
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
Photo of Mindy Marx, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Marx
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Skokie, IL 60077
While I have specialized in treating both eating disorders and trauma for most of my career, I also have a great deal of experience and interest in treating anxiety, depression, grief, adoption related issues and navigating life transitions.
Selecting a Therapist to partner in your journey of self discovery and change is an important decision. I have over 30 years of experience treating adolescents and adults with a wide range of issues. My experience has taught me that people have a great deal of internal wisdom, but sometimes need assistance in accessing and utilizing that information. In 2012 I founded Reflections Psychotherapy: Seeing, Freeing, Being. This name mirrors many aspects of my treatment approach.
While I have specialized in treating both eating disorders and trauma for most of my career, I also have a great deal of experience and interest in treating anxiety, depression, grief, adoption related issues and navigating life transitions.
Selecting a Therapist to partner in your journey of self discovery and change is an important decision. I have over 30 years of experience treating adolescents and adults with a wide range of issues. My experience has taught me that people have a great deal of internal wisdom, but sometimes need assistance in accessing and utilizing that information. In 2012 I founded Reflections Psychotherapy: Seeing, Freeing, Being. This name mirrors many aspects of my treatment approach.
(847) 737-3158 View (847) 737-3158
Photo of Liza Devaney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liza Devaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
(630) 884-4319 x3005 View (630) 884-4319 x3005
Photo of Michael Hawkins, LCPC
Michael Hawkins
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
I have 10+ years of experience and training in a range of areas including: complex generational trauma, issues related to adolescence, issues related to foster care / adoption, school / college-related problems, parental support, family / relational conflicts, depression, anxiety, feelings of isolation, and major life transitions.
My therapeutic style focuses on safety and empowerment. I may be the clinician, but I honor the fact that you are the expert of your own life. I build trust by wearing my heart on my sleeve. I would never ask you to risk your vulnerability if I am unwilling to risk my own. I may use humor to foster hope & ease discomfort. I welcome you to question my perspectives to improve the power of our cocreated insights. We will collaborate to develop ways for you to make new choices, break old patterns, and build more effective supports. Our work will help you unlock your potential for healing, and get you closer to the person you want to be.
I have 10+ years of experience and training in a range of areas including: complex generational trauma, issues related to adolescence, issues related to foster care / adoption, school / college-related problems, parental support, family / relational conflicts, depression, anxiety, feelings of isolation, and major life transitions.
My therapeutic style focuses on safety and empowerment. I may be the clinician, but I honor the fact that you are the expert of your own life. I build trust by wearing my heart on my sleeve. I would never ask you to risk your vulnerability if I am unwilling to risk my own. I may use humor to foster hope & ease discomfort. I welcome you to question my perspectives to improve the power of our cocreated insights. We will collaborate to develop ways for you to make new choices, break old patterns, and build more effective supports. Our work will help you unlock your potential for healing, and get you closer to the person you want to be.
(312) 766-6959 View (312) 766-6959
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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.