Photo of Karlene Hafemann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Karlene Hafemann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saco, ME 04072
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of practice include: foster care and adoption, childhood trauma, attachment disorders, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety disorders, traumatic brain injury, sensory processing disorder, and ASD.
I am a trauma informed, neurodiversity celebrating, gender affirming, complex attachment navigating, soft spot landing, therapist. I welcome adults, teens, children, and families that have experienced complex and generational trauma, attachment trauma, and those that have found themselves on foster care and adoption journeys. I also specialize in co-collaborative work with OTs, PTs, and SLPs, in working with families that experience the complex behaviors and challenges that come with sensory integration needs, Autism Spectrum Disorder, FASD, ADHD, and other neurological diversity.
Areas of practice include: foster care and adoption, childhood trauma, attachment disorders, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder, anxiety disorders, traumatic brain injury, sensory processing disorder, and ASD.
I am a trauma informed, neurodiversity celebrating, gender affirming, complex attachment navigating, soft spot landing, therapist. I welcome adults, teens, children, and families that have experienced complex and generational trauma, attachment trauma, and those that have found themselves on foster care and adoption journeys. I also specialize in co-collaborative work with OTs, PTs, and SLPs, in working with families that experience the complex behaviors and challenges that come with sensory integration needs, Autism Spectrum Disorder, FASD, ADHD, and other neurological diversity.
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Photo of Sandy Boone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Maine
Sandy Boone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, BC-TMHP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
Your past and your present do not have to define your future. Instead, it can be used to propel you forward and help you to become the person that you want to be. Many of my clients enter therapy feeling trapped, stuck, or weighed down by life circumstances. It doesn't have to be this way. I am equipped to work with clients on a variety of issues, but my specialty is working with individuals who have experienced trauma or issues related to attachment (physically and/or emotionally absent parent, adoption, or foster care).
Your past and your present do not have to define your future. Instead, it can be used to propel you forward and help you to become the person that you want to be. Many of my clients enter therapy feeling trapped, stuck, or weighed down by life circumstances. It doesn't have to be this way. I am equipped to work with clients on a variety of issues, but my specialty is working with individuals who have experienced trauma or issues related to attachment (physically and/or emotionally absent parent, adoption, or foster care).
(803) 721-3394 View (803) 721-3394
Photo of Cecilia Kinast, Psychologist in Maine
Cecilia Kinast
Psychologist, PhD, ABPdN
Verified Verified
Camden, ME 04843  (Online Only)
Expertise in Pediatric Neuropsychological testing especially in autism, adoption related, FAS, prenatal exposure to Opioids and other medications and substances, Concussions, Learning Disabilities, ADHD. My practice is general, although expertise in children.. and i test and see Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. My treatment approaches include Psychotherapy includes CBT, insight oriented, play, Behavior Management, Parent Training. Cliental are of various psychological issues including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, obsessions/compulsions, conflict resolution, autism related, post traumatic stress disorder, emotional..physical.. sexual abuse. Often and familiar with working with local and state wide schools, physicians, psychiatrists, social agencies, multiple service providers.
Expertise in Pediatric Neuropsychological testing especially in autism, adoption related, FAS, prenatal exposure to Opioids and other medications and substances, Concussions, Learning Disabilities, ADHD. My practice is general, although expertise in children.. and i test and see Children, Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. My treatment approaches include Psychotherapy includes CBT, insight oriented, play, Behavior Management, Parent Training. Cliental are of various psychological issues including anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, obsessions/compulsions, conflict resolution, autism related, post traumatic stress disorder, emotional..physical.. sexual abuse. Often and familiar with working with local and state wide schools, physicians, psychiatrists, social agencies, multiple service providers.
(207) 747-3983 View (207) 747-3983
Photo of Margery I Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Margery I Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
My expertise covers a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, chronic illness, chronic pain, adoption, and parenting.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30 years of experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples. My approach is an eclectic and heart-centered approach, which is based on creating a safe environment for people to explore whatever issues interfere with their ability to live the life they want to live. My approaches include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Experiential, Solution Focused, Relational, Interpersonal, Humanistic and Complementary orientations to psychotherapy. I am also trained in Biofeedback and Hypnosis.
My expertise covers a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, chronic illness, chronic pain, adoption, and parenting.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 30 years of experience working with adults, teenagers, and couples. My approach is an eclectic and heart-centered approach, which is based on creating a safe environment for people to explore whatever issues interfere with their ability to live the life they want to live. My approaches include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Experiential, Solution Focused, Relational, Interpersonal, Humanistic and Complementary orientations to psychotherapy. I am also trained in Biofeedback and Hypnosis.
(207) 773-7993 x42 View (207) 773-7993 x42
Photo of Amanda Baker, Counselor in Maine
Amanda Baker
Counselor, LCPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Holden, ME 04429
I provide psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults and families in the areas of: identity, attachment, adoption, life adjustments, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and more.
If you or a loved one are looking for a safe space to promote emotional wellness, I invite you to explore what I have to offer at www.familyrootscounseling.com. I welcome a diversity of clients including children, adolescents, adults and families of various backgrounds. My goal is to help people embrace their strengths and face their challenges through a solid therapeutic relationship. Once we establish a foundation of trust, we can explore a therapeutic modality that meets your unique needs such as: EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, play therapy, positive parenting, and more.
I provide psychotherapy for children, adolescents, adults and families in the areas of: identity, attachment, adoption, life adjustments, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and more.
If you or a loved one are looking for a safe space to promote emotional wellness, I invite you to explore what I have to offer at www.familyrootscounseling.com. I welcome a diversity of clients including children, adolescents, adults and families of various backgrounds. My goal is to help people embrace their strengths and face their challenges through a solid therapeutic relationship. Once we establish a foundation of trust, we can explore a therapeutic modality that meets your unique needs such as: EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, play therapy, positive parenting, and more.
(207) 492-4186 View (207) 492-4186
Photo of Luwana Dyer, Counselor in Maine
Luwana Dyer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winterport, ME 04496
LCPC & Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist (CMNCS). I have spent the last 13 years in private practice and partnering with local schools and HeadStart programming. I work with birth-old age: Prevention, family work, trauma, divorce & life transitions, infertility, foster care, adoption, LGBTQ, Anxiety, depression and end of life.
LCPC & Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist (CMNCS). I have spent the last 13 years in private practice and partnering with local schools and HeadStart programming. I work with birth-old age: Prevention, family work, trauma, divorce & life transitions, infertility, foster care, adoption, LGBTQ, Anxiety, depression and end of life.
(207) 806-5765 View (207) 806-5765
Photo of Annette Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Annette Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240
My experience is with individuals of all age groups around challenges that include depression, anxiety, domestic violence, grief and loss, relationship struggles, health challenges, adoption, impacts of trauma, historical or current, and secondary trauma.
We all have had life experiences that shake us and I believe that having a supportive place and person to work through those thoughts and feelings is important. I offer you a genuine, empathetic environment, integrative and holistic in nature. With over 15 years of experience in social work and extensive trauma informed knowledge, I will bring a person-centered, evidence-based approach including CBT, TF-CBT, Problem Solving Therapy, Mindfulness, Stress Reduction and Solution-Focused Brief. I am currently offering Telehealth sessions and in-person coming soon to Lewiston, Maine.
My experience is with individuals of all age groups around challenges that include depression, anxiety, domestic violence, grief and loss, relationship struggles, health challenges, adoption, impacts of trauma, historical or current, and secondary trauma.
We all have had life experiences that shake us and I believe that having a supportive place and person to work through those thoughts and feelings is important. I offer you a genuine, empathetic environment, integrative and holistic in nature. With over 15 years of experience in social work and extensive trauma informed knowledge, I will bring a person-centered, evidence-based approach including CBT, TF-CBT, Problem Solving Therapy, Mindfulness, Stress Reduction and Solution-Focused Brief. I am currently offering Telehealth sessions and in-person coming soon to Lewiston, Maine.
(207) 610-7133 View (207) 610-7133
Photo of Lizz Simon-Miller, Pre-Licensed Professional in Maine
Lizz Simon-Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I work best with trauma + stressor related disorders, fellow moms, women struggling with anxiety + depression, and folks experiencing the beauty + struggle of adoption (proud adoptee myself!).
Accepting new clients for $35 therapy starting May 6, 2024! Yes - just $35! Hey there, I’m so grateful you’re here! I’m Lizz – single mom to a sassy pre-teen, clinical social work graduate student, avid swearer, book lover and newbie/intern therapist. I’m currently accepting new clients at Beauty In Her Struggle, LLC – a trauma-informed psychotherapy practice for women, transgender and non-binary individuals. If you’ve been considering trying out therapy, or looking for someone with relatable life experiences, I’d love to connect.
I work best with trauma + stressor related disorders, fellow moms, women struggling with anxiety + depression, and folks experiencing the beauty + struggle of adoption (proud adoptee myself!).
Accepting new clients for $35 therapy starting May 6, 2024! Yes - just $35! Hey there, I’m so grateful you’re here! I’m Lizz – single mom to a sassy pre-teen, clinical social work graduate student, avid swearer, book lover and newbie/intern therapist. I’m currently accepting new clients at Beauty In Her Struggle, LLC – a trauma-informed psychotherapy practice for women, transgender and non-binary individuals. If you’ve been considering trying out therapy, or looking for someone with relatable life experiences, I’d love to connect.
(207) 579-8804 View (207) 579-8804
Photo of Elliott Kronenfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Elliott Kronenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, MSW, MS, CSTS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
York, ME 03909
I am a certified sex therapist who is licensed in NH, ME, and MA, and specialize in therapies for individuals and couples that are dealing with issues that inhibit future growth and happiness. As the author of Couples by Intention: Creating and Cultivating Relationships That Matter!, specialties include sex/intimacy, infidelity recovery, infertility, Surrogacy/Adoption, life transitions/personal growth, men's issues, and sexual minorities' concerns. My approach is solution focused, varied and includes a strength based perspective. Narrative therapy, CBT and interpersonal methods are often used.
I am a certified sex therapist who is licensed in NH, ME, and MA, and specialize in therapies for individuals and couples that are dealing with issues that inhibit future growth and happiness. As the author of Couples by Intention: Creating and Cultivating Relationships That Matter!, specialties include sex/intimacy, infidelity recovery, infertility, Surrogacy/Adoption, life transitions/personal growth, men's issues, and sexual minorities' concerns. My approach is solution focused, varied and includes a strength based perspective. Narrative therapy, CBT and interpersonal methods are often used.
(603) 239-2119 View (603) 239-2119
Photo of Stephanie Chmielewski Francis, Counselor in Maine
Stephanie Chmielewski Francis
Counselor, LCPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
Orland, ME 04472
My present focus is with children 4-12+ years of age. Specific areas of mental health training have included ADHD, Learning Disorders, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (ND-PAE), trauma and grief/loss as well as methods for working with angry and/or dys-regulated children. Treatment modalities include Child-Centered Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral approaches are utilized when deemed appropriate. Since my practice is with children, a special focus is additionally placed on working directly with the child’s parent (s)/caregiver (s).
My present focus is with children 4-12+ years of age. Specific areas of mental health training have included ADHD, Learning Disorders, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (ND-PAE), trauma and grief/loss as well as methods for working with angry and/or dys-regulated children. Treatment modalities include Child-Centered Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Cognitive Behavioral approaches are utilized when deemed appropriate. Since my practice is with children, a special focus is additionally placed on working directly with the child’s parent (s)/caregiver (s).
(207) 517-2031 View (207) 517-2031
Photo of Jason R. Ronco, LCPC, Counselor in Maine
Jason R. Ronco, LCPC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, AMHCA, MEMHCA
Verified Verified
Falmouth, ME 04105
Treating: Anxiety/Depression,Loss/Grief,Survivors of Suicide Loss,Homophobia,Racism,Anti Semitism,Sexism,Compulsions,Fantasies,Communication,Shame,Obsessions,Sexuality, Substance MisUse,Intimacy,Hopelessness,Mens’ Oppression,& Loneliness. I facilitate processing feelings. For example, crying/sadness, is a natural, healing response to a hurt. Many early care givers were uncomfortable with our crying, which shut us down. My feelings based therapy facilitates healing from old, (or current) unprocessed emotional (or physical) hurts. Unprocessed hurts underlie obsessions/compulsions, substance mis-use, isolation, anxiety/depression.
Treating: Anxiety/Depression,Loss/Grief,Survivors of Suicide Loss,Homophobia,Racism,Anti Semitism,Sexism,Compulsions,Fantasies,Communication,Shame,Obsessions,Sexuality, Substance MisUse,Intimacy,Hopelessness,Mens’ Oppression,& Loneliness. I facilitate processing feelings. For example, crying/sadness, is a natural, healing response to a hurt. Many early care givers were uncomfortable with our crying, which shut us down. My feelings based therapy facilitates healing from old, (or current) unprocessed emotional (or physical) hurts. Unprocessed hurts underlie obsessions/compulsions, substance mis-use, isolation, anxiety/depression.
(207) 618-9272 View (207) 618-9272
Photo of Lynn Mallory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Lynn Mallory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bath, ME 04530
** I am not currently accepting new clients, but will update when I have openings.** Sometimes life can be challenging. Kids don't always know how to manage difficult transitions or feelings by using their words. Instead, an unhappy or anxious child may present with behaviors that are upsetting. I can help discover underlying issues and guide young people in finding ways to better express what is on their minds.
** I am not currently accepting new clients, but will update when I have openings.** Sometimes life can be challenging. Kids don't always know how to manage difficult transitions or feelings by using their words. Instead, an unhappy or anxious child may present with behaviors that are upsetting. I can help discover underlying issues and guide young people in finding ways to better express what is on their minds.
(207) 389-7688 View (207) 389-7688
Photo of Cara Barrett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Cara Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
*** accepting new clients in person *** Life is not easy and you have made the step to seek out help, and for that you are courageous. My name is Cara and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people in many stages of life. I look forward to cultivating a safe space so that I can best assist you in making steps towards your therapeutic goals.
*** accepting new clients in person *** Life is not easy and you have made the step to seek out help, and for that you are courageous. My name is Cara and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people in many stages of life. I look forward to cultivating a safe space so that I can best assist you in making steps towards your therapeutic goals.
(207) 204-3427 View (207) 204-3427
Photo of Crossroads Counseling Center, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Crossroads Counseling Center, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PhD, ABD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Vernon, ME 04352
You have taken a courageous step in beginning the process of seeking counseling, and we look forward to walking alongside you on your journey. Be assured that Crossroads Counseling Center is a safe, peaceful and accepting environment. We welcome anyone looking for support, guidance, or encouragement. There are two counselors in this practice- Shawn and Jessica Hodgdon. We are both Licensed Clinical Social Workers, and have experience working with individuals, couples, and families, specifically adolescents, children and adults.
You have taken a courageous step in beginning the process of seeking counseling, and we look forward to walking alongside you on your journey. Be assured that Crossroads Counseling Center is a safe, peaceful and accepting environment. We welcome anyone looking for support, guidance, or encouragement. There are two counselors in this practice- Shawn and Jessica Hodgdon. We are both Licensed Clinical Social Workers, and have experience working with individuals, couples, and families, specifically adolescents, children and adults.
(207) 420-8891 View (207) 420-8891
Photo of Maine Maternal Counseling & Psychotherapy, Counselor in Maine
Maine Maternal Counseling & Psychotherapy
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04102
We specialize in all aspects of reproductive and maternal mental health, as well as general women's mental health issues. All of our clinicians have specialty training in pregnancy and postpartum difficulties, miscarriage, traumatic birth experiences, unplanned or teen pregnancy, infertility, abortion, intimacy and other women’s health issues. We also help women struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, toxic family relationships, painful childhood memories, divorce, breakups and all kinds of other general concerns.
We specialize in all aspects of reproductive and maternal mental health, as well as general women's mental health issues. All of our clinicians have specialty training in pregnancy and postpartum difficulties, miscarriage, traumatic birth experiences, unplanned or teen pregnancy, infertility, abortion, intimacy and other women’s health issues. We also help women struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, toxic family relationships, painful childhood memories, divorce, breakups and all kinds of other general concerns.
(207) 222-7160 View (207) 222-7160
Photo of Nannette Nero, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Nannette Nero
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, CAGS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kennebunk, ME 04043
Currently, my primary work is with Individual Adults, in Kennebunk, Maine and Telehealth in Maine, Massachusetts and Florida. We all want to be happy. And many of us are happy much of the time as ordinary events pass through us without leaving a mark. And then, something happens and we're stuck. These events narrow our view of ourselves, our world and keep us from living to our full potential. Your problems affect who you are today and you want things to change. I can help you reduce what keeps you stuck so that you can move forward living your life in a more fulfilling and meaningful way.
Currently, my primary work is with Individual Adults, in Kennebunk, Maine and Telehealth in Maine, Massachusetts and Florida. We all want to be happy. And many of us are happy much of the time as ordinary events pass through us without leaving a mark. And then, something happens and we're stuck. These events narrow our view of ourselves, our world and keep us from living to our full potential. Your problems affect who you are today and you want things to change. I can help you reduce what keeps you stuck so that you can move forward living your life in a more fulfilling and meaningful way.
(207) 518-7851 View (207) 518-7851
Photo of Juliet C. Lesser, Ph.D., Psychologist in Maine
Juliet C. Lesser, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Deer Isle, ME 04627  (Online Only)
I am collaborative, responsive, and direct, whether working with adolescents, individual adults or couples. I have varied training and specialties, and strive to assist those in treatment with me to reach an unsnarled, contented, mindful, chosen life. Aside from therapy of differing types and lengths, I also can offer second opinions, forensic consultations, and diagnostic assessments. A collaborative approach with you and with the other professional and personal contacts in your (or your family's) life is also my commitment.
I am collaborative, responsive, and direct, whether working with adolescents, individual adults or couples. I have varied training and specialties, and strive to assist those in treatment with me to reach an unsnarled, contented, mindful, chosen life. Aside from therapy of differing types and lengths, I also can offer second opinions, forensic consultations, and diagnostic assessments. A collaborative approach with you and with the other professional and personal contacts in your (or your family's) life is also my commitment.
(914) 827-5212 View (914) 827-5212
Photo of Amity Olmstead, Counselor in Maine
Amity Olmstead
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Does going for a walk, interacting with others, getting on an airplane, or letting go of obsessive thoughts seem impossible? I work with individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, agoraphobia, and specific phobias to overcome these issues and live full lives. Exposure Response Prevention and Systematic Desensitization are short term treatments (typically less than 6 months) through which people overcome these challenges. Because treatment is short term, I have frequent openings as clients "graduate" from weekly therapy. Please reach out by email to inquire about openings.
Does going for a walk, interacting with others, getting on an airplane, or letting go of obsessive thoughts seem impossible? I work with individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, agoraphobia, and specific phobias to overcome these issues and live full lives. Exposure Response Prevention and Systematic Desensitization are short term treatments (typically less than 6 months) through which people overcome these challenges. Because treatment is short term, I have frequent openings as clients "graduate" from weekly therapy. Please reach out by email to inquire about openings.
(207) 945-8612 View (207) 945-8612
Photo of Judith Hatch-Orme, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Judith Hatch-Orme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Camden, ME 04843  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer counseling for adults and couples. With over 36 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents understand their children's behavior & emotional needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. Ongoing parental conflict increases psychological damage to children, thus by strengthening the co-parenting relationship, the parties can focus on their children's best interests. If you're struggling with relational challenges, childhood trauma, divorce, & ready to make positive changes, we can work together to identify family-of-origin & generational patterns holding you back. Telehealth.
I offer counseling for adults and couples. With over 36 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents understand their children's behavior & emotional needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. Ongoing parental conflict increases psychological damage to children, thus by strengthening the co-parenting relationship, the parties can focus on their children's best interests. If you're struggling with relational challenges, childhood trauma, divorce, & ready to make positive changes, we can work together to identify family-of-origin & generational patterns holding you back. Telehealth.
(603) 476-3560 View (603) 476-3560
Photo of Elizabeth Doyle @ Compass Counseling, Counselor in Maine
Elizabeth Doyle @ Compass Counseling
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gardiner, ME 04345
There are many things that keep us from being true to ourselves and/or brings conflict into our lives making it easy to feel lost or off-track. My work involves allowing you to find your compass by resolving traumas from the past and finding simple and workable solutions for the present. It is my priority to help people come back to their strengths and rediscover their inner compass. My job is to create an environment for you that is free of judgement and debris; together we can find your bearings and put the wind back in your sails.
There are many things that keep us from being true to ourselves and/or brings conflict into our lives making it easy to feel lost or off-track. My work involves allowing you to find your compass by resolving traumas from the past and finding simple and workable solutions for the present. It is my priority to help people come back to their strengths and rediscover their inner compass. My job is to create an environment for you that is free of judgement and debris; together we can find your bearings and put the wind back in your sails.
(207) 204-8332 View (207) 204-8332
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.