Adoption Therapists in Brookline, MA

Photo of Evelyne R Dreyfuss, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Evelyne R Dreyfuss
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446  (Online Only)
You are not alone! Children and adults who experience adoption, complicated divorce, sexual abuse or death feel hurt, helpless and scared. The good news is that with the right support you can create positive changes, feel better and learn to be more resilient! I am easy to talk to, patient and compassionate. I provide a warm and non judgmental environment while taking an active role and suggesting new perspectives. I focus on what is strong not what is wrong. Together we discover your or your child's inherent strength and collaborate to develop healthier attachments and improved confidence.
You are not alone! Children and adults who experience adoption, complicated divorce, sexual abuse or death feel hurt, helpless and scared. The good news is that with the right support you can create positive changes, feel better and learn to be more resilient! I am easy to talk to, patient and compassionate. I provide a warm and non judgmental environment while taking an active role and suggesting new perspectives. I focus on what is strong not what is wrong. Together we discover your or your child's inherent strength and collaborate to develop healthier attachments and improved confidence.
(617) 294-5648 View (617) 294-5648
Photo of Boston Post Adoption Resources, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Boston Post Adoption Resources
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
Boston Post Adoption Resources is a non-profit organization that was founded to support all individuals and families who are touched by adoption. We understand the challenges and impact that adoption can have on relationships, family dynamics, and identity. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is specifically trained to deal with post-adoption challenges. We recognize that every situation is different and our goal is to provide support to you and your family on your journey through adoption.
Boston Post Adoption Resources is a non-profit organization that was founded to support all individuals and families who are touched by adoption. We understand the challenges and impact that adoption can have on relationships, family dynamics, and identity. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is specifically trained to deal with post-adoption challenges. We recognize that every situation is different and our goal is to provide support to you and your family on your journey through adoption.
(617) 420-7064 View (617) 420-7064
Photo of Katie Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Katie Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
In addition I have extensive experience working with individuals and families that are part of the adoption constellation and have received training in complex blended family and post-adoption.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. I offer an active and collaborative therapeutic style that allows the opportunity for clients to learn, grow, explore, challenge and live the life they want to be living. With a background working in community mental health, private practice, clinical supervision and consulting in public/private school settings; I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have helped patients with a broad range of needs including Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Depression, behavioral and/or relational difficulties.
In addition I have extensive experience working with individuals and families that are part of the adoption constellation and have received training in complex blended family and post-adoption.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. I offer an active and collaborative therapeutic style that allows the opportunity for clients to learn, grow, explore, challenge and live the life they want to be living. With a background working in community mental health, private practice, clinical supervision and consulting in public/private school settings; I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have helped patients with a broad range of needs including Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Depression, behavioral and/or relational difficulties.
(310) 361-0638 View (310) 361-0638
Photo of Katie Naftzger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Katie Naftzger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
It can make all the difference to work with someone who specializes in adoption! I bring my personal experience as a Korean-adoptee and professional experience in working with hundreds of adoptees, parents and families.
I am the author of, "Parenting in the Eye of the Storm: The Adoptive Parent's Guide to Navigating the Teen Years." I offer consultation and psychotherapy for individuals and families throughout the life cycle.
It can make all the difference to work with someone who specializes in adoption! I bring my personal experience as a Korean-adoptee and professional experience in working with hundreds of adoptees, parents and families.
I am the author of, "Parenting in the Eye of the Storm: The Adoptive Parent's Guide to Navigating the Teen Years." I offer consultation and psychotherapy for individuals and families throughout the life cycle.
(617) 925-6070 View (617) 925-6070
Photo of Maya Rogers-Bursen, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Maya Rogers-Bursen
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
Adoption trauma refers to loss.
Hi! My name is Maya Rogers-Bursen, and I am a licensed mental health counselor and art therapist. I was adopted from India when I was six months old and my narrative has shaped the work I love doing with adoptees, and families in the adoption constellation. I am a transracial adoptee with a private practice focused in supporting those navigate the ups and downs of the adoption journey. I named my practice Chandani Post Adoption Counseling - Chandani is my birth name. It means moonlight in Hindi, a place I often look towards when I think about birth family (feel free to read more of my story on my website – Chandanicounseling.com)
Adoption trauma refers to loss.
Hi! My name is Maya Rogers-Bursen, and I am a licensed mental health counselor and art therapist. I was adopted from India when I was six months old and my narrative has shaped the work I love doing with adoptees, and families in the adoption constellation. I am a transracial adoptee with a private practice focused in supporting those navigate the ups and downs of the adoption journey. I named my practice Chandani Post Adoption Counseling - Chandani is my birth name. It means moonlight in Hindi, a place I often look towards when I think about birth family (feel free to read more of my story on my website – Chandanicounseling.com)
(857) 340-5606 View (857) 340-5606
Photo of Debra N. Olshever, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Debra N. Olshever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
Since Adoption is my primary focus, I work with all people in the adoption triad, meaning original parents, adoptive parents, and adopted children, teens and adults.
I work with people who want to improve themselves, their relationships and their self image. These are people seeking a sounding board, a safe confidential place to talk, and extensive knowledge and experience dealing with their issues. My work focuses on where the client is now, and where they want to go, with no pre-conceived notions. We look at past experiences together and how they impact the present. For parents, I offer coaching and suggestions for managing challenging behaviors, and understanding the impact of early childhood trauma of behavior. With younger children, I encourage learning about expression of feelings.
Since Adoption is my primary focus, I work with all people in the adoption triad, meaning original parents, adoptive parents, and adopted children, teens and adults.
I work with people who want to improve themselves, their relationships and their self image. These are people seeking a sounding board, a safe confidential place to talk, and extensive knowledge and experience dealing with their issues. My work focuses on where the client is now, and where they want to go, with no pre-conceived notions. We look at past experiences together and how they impact the present. For parents, I offer coaching and suggestions for managing challenging behaviors, and understanding the impact of early childhood trauma of behavior. With younger children, I encourage learning about expression of feelings.
(508) 348-7205 View (508) 348-7205
Photo of Amy G Fleischer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Amy G Fleischer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I am a seasoned psychotherapist, with 25 plus years of Clinical experience. I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, feelings of isolation, grief, relationship issues, and life stage transitions. Individuals and families facing parenting and adoption challenges are an additional focus of my practice. I also offer psychodynamically oriented Clinical Supervision to therapists at all levels of experience. I am committed to working with you to ensure therapy is financially accessible.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist, with 25 plus years of Clinical experience. I have worked extensively with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, feelings of isolation, grief, relationship issues, and life stage transitions. Individuals and families facing parenting and adoption challenges are an additional focus of my practice. I also offer psychodynamically oriented Clinical Supervision to therapists at all levels of experience. I am committed to working with you to ensure therapy is financially accessible.
(857) 574-4970 View (857) 574-4970
Photo of Paula Berman, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Paula Berman
Counselor, PsyaD, CertPsy, MEd
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I have helped people to build more satisfying relationships, to achieve more success in their careers, and to address parenting issues particularly those associated with adoption.
Do you not have enough satisfaction in your life? Do you wish you were in a relationship? Are you struggling with the one you are in? Do you wish for a better career? Talking in a therapeutic environment helps people take more control of their lives, allowing them to experience a quality of life that was otherwise impossible. It is rewarding to see this type of change take place with my clients.
I have helped people to build more satisfying relationships, to achieve more success in their careers, and to address parenting issues particularly those associated with adoption.
Do you not have enough satisfaction in your life? Do you wish you were in a relationship? Are you struggling with the one you are in? Do you wish for a better career? Talking in a therapeutic environment helps people take more control of their lives, allowing them to experience a quality of life that was otherwise impossible. It is rewarding to see this type of change take place with my clients.
(617) 910-3399 View (617) 910-3399
Photo of Sandra Duggan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Sandra Duggan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
I work with individuals and couples experiencing many different struggles in areas that include Depression, Anxiety, parenting, relationship issues, adoption issues, ADHD, family stressors, transitions in families, job changes, interpersonal struggles, identity issues and much more.
I have twenty years of experience providing psychotherapy for couples, adolescents, adults and families. My style is interactive, warm and compassionate. I offer coaching and easily usable strategies along with deeper dives to help improve how a client is feeling. I believe in using clients' strengths to help inform the work we do together. I believe in understanding what is going well as well as understanding where people are struggling. I have a strong respect for all of my clients and believe in providing a safe, trusting environment so clients have space to discuss what feels challenging at this time.
I work with individuals and couples experiencing many different struggles in areas that include Depression, Anxiety, parenting, relationship issues, adoption issues, ADHD, family stressors, transitions in families, job changes, interpersonal struggles, identity issues and much more.
I have twenty years of experience providing psychotherapy for couples, adolescents, adults and families. My style is interactive, warm and compassionate. I offer coaching and easily usable strategies along with deeper dives to help improve how a client is feeling. I believe in using clients' strengths to help inform the work we do together. I believe in understanding what is going well as well as understanding where people are struggling. I have a strong respect for all of my clients and believe in providing a safe, trusting environment so clients have space to discuss what feels challenging at this time.
(617) 420-7545 View (617) 420-7545
Photo of Judi Locke, M.A., L.M.H.C.,, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Judi Locke, M.A., L.M.H.C.,
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
A few of my specialties are; Anxiety disorder, Depression , Mood disorder, Trauma, Relationship building, Interpersonal skills, ADHD/Behavioral problems, Adoption/Infertility, Parenting Support.
I treat an array of ages and psychological issues from anxiety disorder to behavioral challenges with children, adolescents and adults. I am processed oriented and offer skill building strategies to enhance self-awareness and foster positive change.
A few of my specialties are; Anxiety disorder, Depression , Mood disorder, Trauma, Relationship building, Interpersonal skills, ADHD/Behavioral problems, Adoption/Infertility, Parenting Support.
I treat an array of ages and psychological issues from anxiety disorder to behavioral challenges with children, adolescents and adults. I am processed oriented and offer skill building strategies to enhance self-awareness and foster positive change.
(617) 841-8493 View (617) 841-8493
Photo of Michel Renee Otto, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Michel Renee Otto
Counselor, LMHC, MAE
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults. I am known for creating a non-judgemental and down to earth environment, where we can work together to reach goals, manage stress and anxiety, create an empowering space and develop positive coping strategies. I pull from various clinical approaches, fine tuning my approach to each individual client and their situation. I have significant experience helping individuals manage and cope with attachment disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, transitional factors, social issues, emotional regulation, sensory processing disorders, PTSD, trauma and adoption/foster care.
I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults. I am known for creating a non-judgemental and down to earth environment, where we can work together to reach goals, manage stress and anxiety, create an empowering space and develop positive coping strategies. I pull from various clinical approaches, fine tuning my approach to each individual client and their situation. I have significant experience helping individuals manage and cope with attachment disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, transitional factors, social issues, emotional regulation, sensory processing disorders, PTSD, trauma and adoption/foster care.
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Photo of Michael J Zaccardi, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Michael J Zaccardi
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
While specializing in men's issues, anger management, older adolescent, and college populations, I also work individually with women/adults dealing with anxiety, loss and relationship issues. With an emphasis on strengthening relationships and self-esteem, therapy is designed for people searching for a more balanced approach to working through change and adjustment. I offer family therapy, have extended success connecting with male and female young adults whose behaviors have been labeled oppositional or explosive, and work with parents/families who struggle with how to relate and communicate with their children and each other.
While specializing in men's issues, anger management, older adolescent, and college populations, I also work individually with women/adults dealing with anxiety, loss and relationship issues. With an emphasis on strengthening relationships and self-esteem, therapy is designed for people searching for a more balanced approach to working through change and adjustment. I offer family therapy, have extended success connecting with male and female young adults whose behaviors have been labeled oppositional or explosive, and work with parents/families who struggle with how to relate and communicate with their children and each other.
(781) 618-4499 View (781) 618-4499
Photo of Sarah Carter, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Sarah Carter
Counselor, LMHC, RDT
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile. I provide individual therapy for young adults 18+ and adults to address: recent life transitions or loss; symptoms of anxiety and/or depression; difficulty in relationships; traumatic life events; desire to improve mindset and build positive self esteem. I have treated adults, children and adolescents in a variety of settings including The Trauma Center at JRI and Boston Children's Hospital. I also currently provide group therapy at McLean Hospital. I would be glad to assist you with your goals toward your overall health and well-being.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my profile. I provide individual therapy for young adults 18+ and adults to address: recent life transitions or loss; symptoms of anxiety and/or depression; difficulty in relationships; traumatic life events; desire to improve mindset and build positive self esteem. I have treated adults, children and adolescents in a variety of settings including The Trauma Center at JRI and Boston Children's Hospital. I also currently provide group therapy at McLean Hospital. I would be glad to assist you with your goals toward your overall health and well-being.
(857) 264-3510 View (857) 264-3510
Photo of Brigitte Zakari, Counselor in Brookline, MA
Brigitte Zakari
Counselor, PsyaD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
I am a psychoanalyst and licensed mental health counselor in private practice in Brookline, Massachusetts with more than 15 years experience in the field. Throughout my training and career, I have worked with adults in outpatient psychotherapy clinics as well as with children and adolescents and their families in the Public School Systems.
I am a psychoanalyst and licensed mental health counselor in private practice in Brookline, Massachusetts with more than 15 years experience in the field. Throughout my training and career, I have worked with adults in outpatient psychotherapy clinics as well as with children and adolescents and their families in the Public School Systems.
(617) 394-1880 x447 View (617) 394-1880 x447
Photo of Rana Homayouni in Brookline, MA
Rana Homayouni
MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
“I once heard a child who was afraid of the darkness call out: "Auntie, talk to me, I’m frightened.’ ‘But what good will that do? You can’t see me;’ to which the child replied: ‘If someone talks, it gets lighter.”(Sigmund Freud) I believe that through talk therapy, we can overcome whatever lies at the root of the problem. Together, we will try to better understand what has brought you to the consulting room, whether that be relationship problems, social anxiety, depression, trauma, self doubt or a specific issue you would like to address.
“I once heard a child who was afraid of the darkness call out: "Auntie, talk to me, I’m frightened.’ ‘But what good will that do? You can’t see me;’ to which the child replied: ‘If someone talks, it gets lighter.”(Sigmund Freud) I believe that through talk therapy, we can overcome whatever lies at the root of the problem. Together, we will try to better understand what has brought you to the consulting room, whether that be relationship problems, social anxiety, depression, trauma, self doubt or a specific issue you would like to address.
(617) 712-2775 View (617) 712-2775
Photo of Skylar Jungers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brookline, MA
Skylar Jungers
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02445
My goal in therapy is to use empathy, humor, and openness to create a space where you feel safe to express yourself without judgement, accepted for all that you are, and ready to process your experiences with someone who values your wellbeing! My passion lies in working with adolescents, teens, and young adults seeking to work through issues of anxiety, identity development, stress, family conflict, school issues, relationships, transitions, and self-esteem. I also have several years of experience helping athletes with common performance issues such as confidence, focus, motivation, and overcoming injury to perform at their best!
My goal in therapy is to use empathy, humor, and openness to create a space where you feel safe to express yourself without judgement, accepted for all that you are, and ready to process your experiences with someone who values your wellbeing! My passion lies in working with adolescents, teens, and young adults seeking to work through issues of anxiety, identity development, stress, family conflict, school issues, relationships, transitions, and self-esteem. I also have several years of experience helping athletes with common performance issues such as confidence, focus, motivation, and overcoming injury to perform at their best!
(617) 766-0879 View (617) 766-0879
Photo of Crystal Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Crystal Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who works to provide professional therapeutic services to people across Massachusetts. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, and challenging life transitions. I consider it an absolute privilege when someone allows me to be a part of their process. I have a natural curiosity toward people and strive to provide a non-judgmental environment in my practice. I take pride in understanding my client’s needs while providing quality mental health care. My intention is to bring warmth, compassion, and curiosity to the therapeutic space.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker who works to provide professional therapeutic services to people across Massachusetts. I specialize in anxiety, trauma, and challenging life transitions. I consider it an absolute privilege when someone allows me to be a part of their process. I have a natural curiosity toward people and strive to provide a non-judgmental environment in my practice. I take pride in understanding my client’s needs while providing quality mental health care. My intention is to bring warmth, compassion, and curiosity to the therapeutic space.
(781) 537-0916 View (781) 537-0916
Photo of Andrea Hernandez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Andrea Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
I believe people are experts in their own lives; my goal is to partner with you to find answers and solutions to address the challenges you are facing. Whether you are looking for individual, couples or family therapy, you will find my approach to be collaborative and solution-focused with strong CBT leanings. Perhaps you are struggling to cope with an eating disorder, overwhelming anxiety or depression. We can work together to address these challenges.
I believe people are experts in their own lives; my goal is to partner with you to find answers and solutions to address the challenges you are facing. Whether you are looking for individual, couples or family therapy, you will find my approach to be collaborative and solution-focused with strong CBT leanings. Perhaps you are struggling to cope with an eating disorder, overwhelming anxiety or depression. We can work together to address these challenges.
(617) 934-5474 View (617) 934-5474
Photo of Dr. Kristen Dreyfus, Psychologist in Brookline, MA
Dr. Kristen Dreyfus
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brookline, MA 02446
I see therapy as a place to practice courage and honesty, with the goal of creating more joy, humor, flexibility, and play in one's life, relationships, and work. I often see individuals dealing with complex issues such as depression, grief/loss, anxiety, recovery from trauma/abuse or neglect, postpartum or parenting issues, child emotional or behavioral concerns, relationship conflicts, or identity/life transitions. My approach is collaborative, empathic, and interactive, creating an environment in which to help you better understand, relate to, and address the challenges you are experiencing.
I see therapy as a place to practice courage and honesty, with the goal of creating more joy, humor, flexibility, and play in one's life, relationships, and work. I often see individuals dealing with complex issues such as depression, grief/loss, anxiety, recovery from trauma/abuse or neglect, postpartum or parenting issues, child emotional or behavioral concerns, relationship conflicts, or identity/life transitions. My approach is collaborative, empathic, and interactive, creating an environment in which to help you better understand, relate to, and address the challenges you are experiencing.
(857) 226-8704 View (857) 226-8704
Photo of Nina Avedon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brookline, MA
Nina Avedon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
A decision to consider psychotherapy suggests you are experiencing difficulties in life which you hope a professional can help with. Perhaps you have noticed some repeating patterns that get in the way of love or work but do not understand why. I am a trained psychoanalyst who has had a psychotherapy practice for over thirty years. I work with individual adults and have additional training in couples therapy. My style is responsive and interactive. I ascribe to the value of firm therapist-patient boundaries. This practice helps to facilitate a safe space which is essential if the work is to proceed.
A decision to consider psychotherapy suggests you are experiencing difficulties in life which you hope a professional can help with. Perhaps you have noticed some repeating patterns that get in the way of love or work but do not understand why. I am a trained psychoanalyst who has had a psychotherapy practice for over thirty years. I work with individual adults and have additional training in couples therapy. My style is responsive and interactive. I ascribe to the value of firm therapist-patient boundaries. This practice helps to facilitate a safe space which is essential if the work is to proceed.
(617) 734-6589 View (617) 734-6589
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.