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 Lotus Root Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Lotus Root Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
(773) 364-1625 View (773) 364-1625
Photo of Deanna Pacelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Deanna Pacelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I have worked in community-based mental health treating violence intervention and prevention, child welfare, crisis intervention, LGBTQ+ identities and their intersections, foster care and adoption, grief and loss, and complex trauma.
I believe a person’s identity, values and beliefs guide their path of healing. Therapy can be a way of liberating ourselves from limiting ideas, societal messages, oppression and isolation. I see you as the expert in your experience and collaborate with you to develop a space to learn and grow. My therapeutic approach is both systemic and person-centered with a focus on inherent strengths and resilience. I pull from relational, attachment, family systems, racial trauma and polyvagal theories while using such modalities as ACT, DBT, CBT, TCI-F and Motivational Interviewing. I also draws, when appropriate, from my own experience.
I have worked in community-based mental health treating violence intervention and prevention, child welfare, crisis intervention, LGBTQ+ identities and their intersections, foster care and adoption, grief and loss, and complex trauma.
I believe a person’s identity, values and beliefs guide their path of healing. Therapy can be a way of liberating ourselves from limiting ideas, societal messages, oppression and isolation. I see you as the expert in your experience and collaborate with you to develop a space to learn and grow. My therapeutic approach is both systemic and person-centered with a focus on inherent strengths and resilience. I pull from relational, attachment, family systems, racial trauma and polyvagal theories while using such modalities as ACT, DBT, CBT, TCI-F and Motivational Interviewing. I also draws, when appropriate, from my own experience.
(312) 598-1261 View (312) 598-1261
Photo of Caitlin Lantz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Caitlin Lantz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820  (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 Raquel Wu, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Illinois
Raquel Wu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
I also specialize in working with victims of domestic and sexual abuse of all ages (3 - 60+), transgender folks, adoption, multi-cultural families and relationships, and more.
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
I also specialize in working with victims of domestic and sexual abuse of all ages (3 - 60+), transgender folks, adoption, multi-cultural families and relationships, and more.
I am here to give support to those who have experienced racial and gender trauma, domestic and sexual abuse victims, exploration of self-identity in all aspects, and more. I practice cultural humility in order to be able to work with different cultures and intersectionality. I aim to provide a client-centered approach which I find important in maintaining this therapeutic relationship. We will work together to make this a safe and brave space for you so that you can embark on your journey to heal.
(773) 692-0273 View (773) 692-0273
Photo of Tina Villis, Counselor in Illinois
Tina Villis
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over fifteen years of experience in the mental health field. It is an honor to meet individuals from all walks of life, listen to their stories, and be a source of support for them during their most painful times. I work with individuals and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, communication conflict, divorce, grief and loss, workplace stress, parenting, life transitions, infertility and adoption concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over fifteen years of experience in the mental health field. It is an honor to meet individuals from all walks of life, listen to their stories, and be a source of support for them during their most painful times. I work with individuals and couples who struggle with depression, anxiety, communication conflict, divorce, grief and loss, workplace stress, parenting, life transitions, infertility and adoption concerns.
(630) 526-7462 View (630) 526-7462
Photo of One Counseling and Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois
One Counseling and Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Washington, IL 61571
At ONE we have professionals that specialize in anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, school issues, chronic pain, fertility, military population, alcohol and substance use, foster care and adoption, life transitions, stress management, mood disorders, postpartum, spectrum disorders and mediation.
At ONE we believe in health and wellness for individuals and families. We offer counseling for individuals, couples, families and children. Our qualified professionals have wide arrange of specialties to help through times of stress and crisis or to work on achieving optimum mental and physical health. ONE offers counseling, mediation, SAP services as well as EMDR. We believe in the wellness model that works with all the unique pieces that make up your ONE life. See what ONE has to offer you and your family.
At ONE we have professionals that specialize in anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, school issues, chronic pain, fertility, military population, alcohol and substance use, foster care and adoption, life transitions, stress management, mood disorders, postpartum, spectrum disorders and mediation.
At ONE we believe in health and wellness for individuals and families. We offer counseling for individuals, couples, families and children. Our qualified professionals have wide arrange of specialties to help through times of stress and crisis or to work on achieving optimum mental and physical health. ONE offers counseling, mediation, SAP services as well as EMDR. We believe in the wellness model that works with all the unique pieces that make up your ONE life. See what ONE has to offer you and your family.
(309) 606-4614 View (309) 606-4614
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 Tanya A Wade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Tanya A Wade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPHA
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
During my 18 years of clinical practice, I've worked with diverse populations specializing in developmental and relational concerns common to teens and assisting their parents and guardians; foster care and adoption support and education; resolving childhood trauma; and grief, loss and separation.
It is the desire of every human being to be loved and to belong. The only true thing that distinguishes us from one another is our experiences and our perspective of those experiences. Your past, the personal struggles and decisions you currently face and the conflicts between you and those you care about does not define you. What I offer is empathy, compassion, and support with a focus on creating a warm, safe and welcoming environment where you can be heard and understood without judgment.
During my 18 years of clinical practice, I've worked with diverse populations specializing in developmental and relational concerns common to teens and assisting their parents and guardians; foster care and adoption support and education; resolving childhood trauma; and grief, loss and separation.
It is the desire of every human being to be loved and to belong. The only true thing that distinguishes us from one another is our experiences and our perspective of those experiences. Your past, the personal struggles and decisions you currently face and the conflicts between you and those you care about does not define you. What I offer is empathy, compassion, and support with a focus on creating a warm, safe and welcoming environment where you can be heard and understood without judgment.
(630) 948-5041 View (630) 948-5041
Photo of Kristal Perry- Gutierrez, Counselor in Illinois
Kristal Perry- Gutierrez
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704
I offer caring, unconditional support in a relaxed atmosphere for clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD. I also treat clients going through life adjustments, or those with relationship issues, and stress or health related problems. In addition, I am experienced in treating children for a variety of issues, including grief and loss, foster care and adoption issues, attachment and developmental trauma. I provide services for couples and families, and I include parents when working with children. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in personal growth and development.
I offer caring, unconditional support in a relaxed atmosphere for clients experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD. I also treat clients going through life adjustments, or those with relationship issues, and stress or health related problems. In addition, I am experienced in treating children for a variety of issues, including grief and loss, foster care and adoption issues, attachment and developmental trauma. I provide services for couples and families, and I include parents when working with children. I enjoy working with adults who are interested in personal growth and development.
(217) 814-0113 View (217) 814-0113
Photo of Rick B. Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois
Rick B. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302  (Online Only)
As a Couple & Family Therapist, I work with couples, families, and individuals to navigate the challenges of couplehood, parenting, adoption/blended family, chronic & life-threatening illness, and separation/divorce.
Our most important relationships are also often those we struggle with. I am an expert listener, advisor, and facilitator and, working together, we’ll turn struggles into opportunity and strife into increased connection.
As a Couple & Family Therapist, I work with couples, families, and individuals to navigate the challenges of couplehood, parenting, adoption/blended family, chronic & life-threatening illness, and separation/divorce.
Our most important relationships are also often those we struggle with. I am an expert listener, advisor, and facilitator and, working together, we’ll turn struggles into opportunity and strife into increased connection.
(708) 406-2745 View (708) 406-2745
Photo of 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 Ann M Bergart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Ann M Bergart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
This can be a very difficult period -- of emotional recovery, and decision-making about adoption vs.
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
This can be a very difficult period -- of emotional recovery, and decision-making about adoption vs.
It's a privilege to assist individuals and couples who want to make their lives better. I love my work, even more than when I received my initial social work degree. Returning to school later to get my doctorate and teach, I always maintained a private practice. In a nutshell, my philosophy is that I partner with my clients to figure out what they can do to improve their relationships and sense of well-being. Though I have a special interest in infertility and incest survivorship, I work with individuals and couples who struggle with any number of life challenges.
(847) 416-0616 View (847) 416-0616
Photo of Dr. Corie McNally, Pre-Licensed Professional in Illinois
Dr. Corie McNally
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I have obtained my PsyD from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology, an APA accredited program. I am currently working towards licensure. In my clinical work I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families alike. I am currently most interested in the treatment of disorders and issues related to identity, attachment, relational problems, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, grief and loss, behavioral problems, parenting issues, and adoption.
I have obtained my PsyD from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology, an APA accredited program. I am currently working towards licensure. In my clinical work I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families alike. I am currently most interested in the treatment of disorders and issues related to identity, attachment, relational problems, depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, grief and loss, behavioral problems, parenting issues, and adoption.
(630) 426-7809 View (630) 426-7809
Photo of Bonnie McDaniel Evolve Family Therapy, Counselor in Illinois
Bonnie McDaniel Evolve Family Therapy
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Geneva, IL 60134
Our therapists work with children, adolescents, couples, and families and specialize in a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Veteran's issues, Women's issues, ADHD, parenting issues/couples counseling, adoption, trauma/PTSD, executive functioning delays, autism spectrum disorder.
You don’t have to do it alone! Maybe there is a challenging relationship, work, school, or life is just simply overwhelming you. Perhaps you are a parent, or soon-to-be parent who is struggling. Or maybe you are tired of feeling anxious or depressed all the time. Therapy can help! It can be hard to call a therapist, yet you have an inner strength that has led you this far. I look forward to hearing from you!
Our therapists work with children, adolescents, couples, and families and specialize in a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, Veteran's issues, Women's issues, ADHD, parenting issues/couples counseling, adoption, trauma/PTSD, executive functioning delays, autism spectrum disorder.
You don’t have to do it alone! Maybe there is a challenging relationship, work, school, or life is just simply overwhelming you. Perhaps you are a parent, or soon-to-be parent who is struggling. Or maybe you are tired of feeling anxious or depressed all the time. Therapy can help! It can be hard to call a therapist, yet you have an inner strength that has led you this far. I look forward to hearing from you!
(630) 313-5637 View (630) 313-5637
Photo of Amy Mountsier, Counselor in Illinois
Amy Mountsier
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
When we encounter difficulties in our lives we are effected in physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual ways. I work to help my clients understand how their history impacts them on many levels and how our past, overtime, creates patterns of communication and sets the stage that determines how we deal with life's ups and downs. If we can gain understanding of the past and connect the dots between where we began and where we are today, then we can begin to heal and create new effective ways to communicate, build healthy relationships and realize more fulfillment in our lives.
When we encounter difficulties in our lives we are effected in physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual ways. I work to help my clients understand how their history impacts them on many levels and how our past, overtime, creates patterns of communication and sets the stage that determines how we deal with life's ups and downs. If we can gain understanding of the past and connect the dots between where we began and where we are today, then we can begin to heal and create new effective ways to communicate, build healthy relationships and realize more fulfillment in our lives.
(779) 210-6817 View (779) 210-6817
Photo of Allison Rackow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Allison Rackow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Grange Highlands, IL 60525  (Online Only)
Are the challenges of parenting seeming to outweigh the joy of parenting lately? Are you struggling to keep up with all of the modern-day expectations of parenting? You’re not alone! Parenting is inherently challenging & sometimes we need a space where we can be honest about what frustrates us in parenting & work through the things about our children (or our spouse!) that keep us up at night.
Are the challenges of parenting seeming to outweigh the joy of parenting lately? Are you struggling to keep up with all of the modern-day expectations of parenting? You’re not alone! Parenting is inherently challenging & sometimes we need a space where we can be honest about what frustrates us in parenting & work through the things about our children (or our spouse!) that keep us up at night.
(708) 554-6887 View (708) 554-6887
Photo of Melissa Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Melissa Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
My work is dedicated to helping others develop healthy relationships with themselves and others. My passion is assisting others so that they may achieve balance and happiness in their life. I am available to help whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or relationship difficulties.
My work is dedicated to helping others develop healthy relationships with themselves and others. My passion is assisting others so that they may achieve balance and happiness in their life. I am available to help whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, or relationship difficulties.
(815) 454-5273 View (815) 454-5273
Photo of Cheryl Frommelt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois
Cheryl Frommelt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have 30 years working with Individuals, Couples and Families as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am a Certified Rapid Resolution Therapist. I am passionate about helping people achieve balanced and healthy lives. I see myself as a collaborator and work along side my clients to effectively help them obtain their goals. I have a fundamental belief that people have the ability to help themselves. I believe respect for others, along with compassion and humor provide an ideal environment in which clients can express themselves.
I have 30 years working with Individuals, Couples and Families as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist as well as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I am a Certified Rapid Resolution Therapist. I am passionate about helping people achieve balanced and healthy lives. I see myself as a collaborator and work along side my clients to effectively help them obtain their goals. I have a fundamental belief that people have the ability to help themselves. I believe respect for others, along with compassion and humor provide an ideal environment in which clients can express themselves.
(630) 426-3509 View (630) 426-3509

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.