Photo of Karyn Roggatz Ness, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois
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 Nghia Le, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Nghia Le
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
More specifically, I have training and focused experience with individuals in the adoption constellation, from immigrant families, and/or immigrants themselves.
Clients I work with often feel in-between jobs, relationships, cultures, or identities. This “in-between” feeling can show up as depression, anxiety, or difficulties with relationships and indecisiveness. I believe that peace and stability comes from finding comfort in the “in-between” and not forcing yourself out. I offer space for individuals to learn more about themselves and how they show up in the many roles in their lives so they can be more themselves in all parts of their lives. (I meet with virtually with clients residing in California and Illinois).
More specifically, I have training and focused experience with individuals in the adoption constellation, from immigrant families, and/or immigrants themselves.
Clients I work with often feel in-between jobs, relationships, cultures, or identities. This “in-between” feeling can show up as depression, anxiety, or difficulties with relationships and indecisiveness. I believe that peace and stability comes from finding comfort in the “in-between” and not forcing yourself out. I offer space for individuals to learn more about themselves and how they show up in the many roles in their lives so they can be more themselves in all parts of their lives. (I meet with virtually with clients residing in California and Illinois).
(847) 440-1356 View (847) 440-1356
Photo of Kimberly Langrehr, Psychologist in Illinois
Kimberly Langrehr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Waitlist for new clients
I also have particular expertise helping individuals from the adoption community (e.
As a generalist clinician, I appreciate that people seek therapy for a variety of different reasons. I take a collaborative and relational approach to therapy and do my best to provide a supportive space for clients to feel heard, express themselves, and actively work toward change.
I also have particular expertise helping individuals from the adoption community (e.
As a generalist clinician, I appreciate that people seek therapy for a variety of different reasons. I take a collaborative and relational approach to therapy and do my best to provide a supportive space for clients to feel heard, express themselves, and actively work toward change.
(312) 248-9281 View (312) 248-9281
Photo of Dr. Sarah Pekoc, Psychologist in Illinois
Dr. Sarah Pekoc
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has the ability to heal from difficult life experiences and move forward to live a fulfilling and joyful life. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults through the healing process after they have been exposed to traumatic life events such as abuse/neglect, adoption, divorce, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, medical trauma, and other life stressors. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumas, caregivers experiencing postpartum/parenting difficulties, early childhood populations, and parent-child relationship issues.
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has the ability to heal from difficult life experiences and move forward to live a fulfilling and joyful life. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults through the healing process after they have been exposed to traumatic life events such as abuse/neglect, adoption, divorce, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, medical trauma, and other life stressors. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumas, caregivers experiencing postpartum/parenting difficulties, early childhood populations, and parent-child relationship issues.
(773) 492-6869 View (773) 492-6869
Photo of 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 Jodi Stelley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Jodi Stelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize in working with the adoptee community and exploring ways adoption has shaped sense of self, family, and relationships.
As a therapist, I help clients who are healing from trauma, learning how to manage feelings of anxiety and depression, processing grief, and trying to establish healthier boundaries in work and life. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment wherein each client can be their full selves. I strive to see each person holistically with an understanding of how our intersecting identities inform our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe therapy can help an individual gain a clearer understanding of themselves while providing tools to help manage life more successfully.
I also specialize in working with the adoptee community and exploring ways adoption has shaped sense of self, family, and relationships.
As a therapist, I help clients who are healing from trauma, learning how to manage feelings of anxiety and depression, processing grief, and trying to establish healthier boundaries in work and life. My goal is to create a safe and welcoming environment wherein each client can be their full selves. I strive to see each person holistically with an understanding of how our intersecting identities inform our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe therapy can help an individual gain a clearer understanding of themselves while providing tools to help manage life more successfully.
(224) 808-5257 View (224) 808-5257
Photo of Liza Devaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
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 x2 View (630) 884-4319 x2
Photo of Linda Bartoli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Linda Bartoli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Life changes, gender, identity, adoption, loss, grief and trauma, are all areas of mental wellness.
I am the founding director Pivot Collaborative. A a queer person, I aimed to build a diverse group practice for people who are passionate and curious about other people- people who like to challenge and support people and organizations through change processes – people who are LGBTQIA+ or queer allied – people who are focused on race, gender and the intersections of identity- people who work to change oppressive systems and people who enjoy collaboration on multiple levels.
Life changes, gender, identity, adoption, loss, grief and trauma, are all areas of mental wellness.
I am the founding director Pivot Collaborative. A a queer person, I aimed to build a diverse group practice for people who are passionate and curious about other people- people who like to challenge and support people and organizations through change processes – people who are LGBTQIA+ or queer allied – people who are focused on race, gender and the intersections of identity- people who work to change oppressive systems and people who enjoy collaboration on multiple levels.
(872) 666-9807 View (872) 666-9807
Photo of EmboldenYOU, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois
EmboldenYOU, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Adoption and work with trauma are two of my primary focuses in my work.
Accepting New Clients ! You're ready, now let's get started. The process of therapy allows you to to have guidance, validation, and accountability in your journey towards a more balanced and healthy life. Don't turn back now, let today be the day that your life changes. I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for my clients so that they can access the vulnerable parts of themselves and manifest the lives they desire.
Adoption and work with trauma are two of my primary focuses in my work.
Accepting New Clients ! You're ready, now let's get started. The process of therapy allows you to to have guidance, validation, and accountability in your journey towards a more balanced and healthy life. Don't turn back now, let today be the day that your life changes. I strive to create a comfortable and safe environment for my clients so that they can access the vulnerable parts of themselves and manifest the lives they desire.
(312) 471-0638 View (312) 471-0638
Photo of Sandi Kellerstrass, Counselor in Illinois
Sandi Kellerstrass
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morton, IL 61550
Sandi Kellerstrass, owner of and therapist for Syndeo Counseling is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nine years of therapeutic experience. She holds a BA in Leadership and Management and an MA in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. Sandi has prior field experience in community-based counseling, foster care and adoption preservation.
Sandi Kellerstrass, owner of and therapist for Syndeo Counseling is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nine years of therapeutic experience. She holds a BA in Leadership and Management and an MA in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. Sandi has prior field experience in community-based counseling, foster care and adoption preservation.
(309) 312-9010 View (309) 312-9010
Photo of Beth Holzhauer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Beth Holzhauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60201
For over 30 years, I have specialized in the treatment of childhood trauma and traumatic loss, self-harm, eating disorders, and adoption.
As a culturally affirming trauma therapist, my highest intention is to restore dignity to those who have been marginalized or exiled from our human community because of their traumatic experiences. I see therapy as a journey we embark on together, where I am invited not only to tread the well-worn paths of our shared humanity, but also to walk reverently into the sacred spaces of my clients' life stories. I approach this work with humility, deep respect, and a fierce commitment to my clients' well-being. I am known to hang in there when things get tough, and I enjoy a healthy dose of playfulness and humor in every relationship.
For over 30 years, I have specialized in the treatment of childhood trauma and traumatic loss, self-harm, eating disorders, and adoption.
As a culturally affirming trauma therapist, my highest intention is to restore dignity to those who have been marginalized or exiled from our human community because of their traumatic experiences. I see therapy as a journey we embark on together, where I am invited not only to tread the well-worn paths of our shared humanity, but also to walk reverently into the sacred spaces of my clients' life stories. I approach this work with humility, deep respect, and a fierce commitment to my clients' well-being. I am known to hang in there when things get tough, and I enjoy a healthy dose of playfulness and humor in every relationship.
(847) 744-9326 x24 View (847) 744-9326 x24
Photo of Alexandra Kutnick, Psychologist in Illinois
Alexandra Kutnick
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
I provide therapy that is collaborative, understanding and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, problematic substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges managing and coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
I provide therapy that is collaborative, understanding and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, problematic substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges managing and coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
(872) 228-2144 View (872) 228-2144
Photo of 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 Maggie Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Maggie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
For families that choose to build their family through adoption, I provide holistic and ongoing support throughout the adoption process and beyond.
I work with adults, couples, adolescents and families around issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, infertility and trauma. I have been trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT). My clients describe my approach as warm and supportive yet straightforward. My goal is to help clients better understand their past so they can make positive changes for their future. I believe in empowering my clients to live their best lives and tailor my approach to each individual or family. I truly love the work that I do and I believe that comes through to my clients in the work that we do together.
For families that choose to build their family through adoption, I provide holistic and ongoing support throughout the adoption process and beyond.
I work with adults, couples, adolescents and families around issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, infertility and trauma. I have been trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT). My clients describe my approach as warm and supportive yet straightforward. My goal is to help clients better understand their past so they can make positive changes for their future. I believe in empowering my clients to live their best lives and tailor my approach to each individual or family. I truly love the work that I do and I believe that comes through to my clients in the work that we do together.
(773) 570-6914 View (773) 570-6914
Photo of S & J Wellness PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois
S & J Wellness PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
We understand how issues in childhood, issues in our relationships, and conflict within our family dynamics can contribute to depression, anxiety and PTSD. We are a niche therapy practice specializing in culturally responsive therapy, PTSD and anxiety, adoption, attachment trauma, and complex family issues and dynamics. We see couples, families, and individuals. We are neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ affirming and provide therapy in English, Spanish and French.
We understand how issues in childhood, issues in our relationships, and conflict within our family dynamics can contribute to depression, anxiety and PTSD. We are a niche therapy practice specializing in culturally responsive therapy, PTSD and anxiety, adoption, attachment trauma, and complex family issues and dynamics. We see couples, families, and individuals. We are neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ affirming and provide therapy in English, Spanish and French.
(331) 231-2829 View (331) 231-2829
Photo of Adam Lawrence Maldonado in Illinois
Adam Lawrence Maldonado
MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
My greatest wish in life is to be able to help make a difference in the world; counseling is my way. I have confronted a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, adoption, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, ADHD, defiant behaviors, anger management, and attachment concerns. My work also extends to parental support in working with their children / adolescents more effectively in communication, discipline and affection. My main desire is for all clients to know they are not alone and help them on their journey. I will adapt to meet your needs.
My greatest wish in life is to be able to help make a difference in the world; counseling is my way. I have confronted a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, adoption, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, ADHD, defiant behaviors, anger management, and attachment concerns. My work also extends to parental support in working with their children / adolescents more effectively in communication, discipline and affection. My main desire is for all clients to know they are not alone and help them on their journey. I will adapt to meet your needs.
(815) 513-7010 View (815) 513-7010
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 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 Janel Morey-Sassano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Janel Morey-Sassano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269  (Online Only)
March openings availabIe! EMDR certified, women centered therapist who specializes in maternal mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder. I teach women to take care of themselves first so they can better care for others. Trained during my work at The Postpartum Stress Center, I treat women who struggle with trauma, postpartum adjustment, infertility, birth trauma, infant loss/miscarriage and adoption struggles. We strengthen the relationship to self, build a sense of emotional safety with others. We will shift the lens on the mommy myths, cultural expectations and perfectionistic standards which can cause overwhelm/shame.
March openings availabIe! EMDR certified, women centered therapist who specializes in maternal mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder. I teach women to take care of themselves first so they can better care for others. Trained during my work at The Postpartum Stress Center, I treat women who struggle with trauma, postpartum adjustment, infertility, birth trauma, infant loss/miscarriage and adoption struggles. We strengthen the relationship to self, build a sense of emotional safety with others. We will shift the lens on the mommy myths, cultural expectations and perfectionistic standards which can cause overwhelm/shame.
(618) 437-8487 View (618) 437-8487
Photo of Kara E Wolff, Psychologist in Illinois
Kara E Wolff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am continually amazed by the human capacity to grow, change, and flourish in the midst of personal and societal challenges. Particularly as we grapple with the developmental challenges that emerge throughout our lives. Circumstances such as new relationships, pregnancy and adoption, career changes, midlife shifts, retirement, and older age are all normal and create opportunities for growth. All of this can be stressful and we often need extra support in the midst of these experiences. In a counseling relationship with me, we will walk through this journey together, focusing our work on what brings joy and contentment to your life.
I am continually amazed by the human capacity to grow, change, and flourish in the midst of personal and societal challenges. Particularly as we grapple with the developmental challenges that emerge throughout our lives. Circumstances such as new relationships, pregnancy and adoption, career changes, midlife shifts, retirement, and older age are all normal and create opportunities for growth. All of this can be stressful and we often need extra support in the midst of these experiences. In a counseling relationship with me, we will walk through this journey together, focusing our work on what brings joy and contentment to your life.
(708) 381-0634 View (708) 381-0634
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.