Adoption Therapists in Maine

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 Deborah Como Kepler, Counselor in Maine
Deborah Como Kepler
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
I have been in the psychotherapy field for over 25 years working with people who stuggle with addictions, infertility, adoption, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups. I am down to earth and easy to talk with. I'm an active participant in the cleint's process of self discovery and movement towards health.
I have been in the psychotherapy field for over 25 years working with people who stuggle with addictions, infertility, adoption, depression and anxiety. I work with individuals, couples, families and groups. I am down to earth and easy to talk with. I'm an active participant in the cleint's process of self discovery and movement towards health.
(207) 358-4408 View (207) 358-4408
Photo of Ritu J Esbjorn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Ritu J Esbjorn
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
I bring empathy, kindness, and a wealth of life experience into any conversation you and I might have about the difficulties you're facing. My extensive clinical training and professional experience is part of the well of care I offer; I can help you with coming to terms with anxiety, grief, depression, and shame, as well as supporting you through challenges in relationships, major life transitions, loss and illness. Any issue to do with adoption is completely familiar to me from my years as an active social worker.
I bring empathy, kindness, and a wealth of life experience into any conversation you and I might have about the difficulties you're facing. My extensive clinical training and professional experience is part of the well of care I offer; I can help you with coming to terms with anxiety, grief, depression, and shame, as well as supporting you through challenges in relationships, major life transitions, loss and illness. Any issue to do with adoption is completely familiar to me from my years as an active social worker.
(207) 501-3118 View (207) 501-3118
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 Virginia Brewster, Counselor in Maine
Virginia Brewster
Counselor
Verified Verified
Calais, ME 04619
I have special training in spiritual issues, adoption and foster issues, and domestic violence.
Welcome :) I offer a calm, non-judgmental space to those who need a place to sort out their problems and identify and work toward their goals. I've often worked with those who have experienced trauma, those who feel or are different, those going through a hard transition, those with tricky relationships, and those learning to manage intense emotions. I've noticed that even those who have a hard time naming their feelings can get a lot out of counseling if they are willing to just start talking.
I have special training in spiritual issues, adoption and foster issues, and domestic violence.
Welcome :) I offer a calm, non-judgmental space to those who need a place to sort out their problems and identify and work toward their goals. I've often worked with those who have experienced trauma, those who feel or are different, those going through a hard transition, those with tricky relationships, and those learning to manage intense emotions. I've noticed that even those who have a hard time naming their feelings can get a lot out of counseling if they are willing to just start talking.
(207) 292-5932 View (207) 292-5932
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 Debbie Murray, Counselor in Maine
Debbie Murray
Counselor, LCPCc
Verified Verified
Yarmouth, ME 04096
I offer a holistic, client-centered approach to therapy for Adults, members of the Adoption Constellation and those individuals struggling through their divorce.
I am pleased to announce appointment openings for new clients during WEEKEND hours between 10 am - 3 pm. Please see my website www.Debbie-Murray.com for details on my approach to therapy and my areas of speciality. Website scheduling for initial consult is available, and we can meet in person in Yarmouth or via teleconference. Please note I am only seeing adult clients at this time.
I offer a holistic, client-centered approach to therapy for Adults, members of the Adoption Constellation and those individuals struggling through their divorce.
I am pleased to announce appointment openings for new clients during WEEKEND hours between 10 am - 3 pm. Please see my website www.Debbie-Murray.com for details on my approach to therapy and my areas of speciality. Website scheduling for initial consult is available, and we can meet in person in Yarmouth or via teleconference. Please note I am only seeing adult clients at this time.
(207) 426-4813 View (207) 426-4813
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 Janet Anderson-Murch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Janet Anderson-Murch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness, I assist adolescents and adults with trauma, divorce, adoption, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and domestic violence issues.
Current statewide openings for telehealth sessions. It has been a challenging few years. Asking for help is the first step toward healing. I provide individuals with a personalized, strength-based, and supportive environment to manage life changes, conflicts, and past issues. I believe every person holds the key to their success and happiness. Sometimes everyday stressors overwhelm us. In sessions, I hope to assist you in finding peace, joy, and fulfillment again.
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness, I assist adolescents and adults with trauma, divorce, adoption, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and domestic violence issues.
Current statewide openings for telehealth sessions. It has been a challenging few years. Asking for help is the first step toward healing. I provide individuals with a personalized, strength-based, and supportive environment to manage life changes, conflicts, and past issues. I believe every person holds the key to their success and happiness. Sometimes everyday stressors overwhelm us. In sessions, I hope to assist you in finding peace, joy, and fulfillment again.
(207) 417-4705 View (207) 417-4705
Photo of Carolyn B Woodworth, Counselor in Maine
Carolyn B Woodworth
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107  (Online Only)
I work with adults and young adults around issues of stress and anxiety, grief and loss, adoption, identity and belonging.
I am a clinical counselor and board certified clinical mental health counselor and am licensed to practice in Maine. I have an M.S. in counseling from the University of Southern Maine and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. I am a member of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and have completed an EMDRIA approved program in EMDR therapy. My practice style is informal and client-centered and I enjoy working with clients on specific issues as well as longer term work.
I work with adults and young adults around issues of stress and anxiety, grief and loss, adoption, identity and belonging.
I am a clinical counselor and board certified clinical mental health counselor and am licensed to practice in Maine. I have an M.S. in counseling from the University of Southern Maine and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. I am a member of the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and have completed an EMDRIA approved program in EMDR therapy. My practice style is informal and client-centered and I enjoy working with clients on specific issues as well as longer term work.
(207) 280-8906 View (207) 280-8906
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 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 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 Michael G. McCay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Michael G. McCay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Couples, families, individuals. I hope to help couples regain the closeness that you felt when you were first together. I hope to help families to resolve conflict and find new ways to be together in a way that brings the family closer together. I hope to help adults to resolve personal difficulties and to work through the barriers that keep you from having the kind of life that you want. I also hope to help children in foster care and adoptive homes be able to feel accepted and welcome parts of their new families.
Couples, families, individuals. I hope to help couples regain the closeness that you felt when you were first together. I hope to help families to resolve conflict and find new ways to be together in a way that brings the family closer together. I hope to help adults to resolve personal difficulties and to work through the barriers that keep you from having the kind of life that you want. I also hope to help children in foster care and adoptive homes be able to feel accepted and welcome parts of their new families.
(603) 836-9960 View (603) 836-9960
Photo of Susan Cook, Psychologist in Maine
Susan Cook
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
In my calm, safe, confidential office, I am currently offering HIPAA secure Online video sessions using a HIPPA-compliant secure platform or phone consultations. We integrate CDC guidelines for COVID-19 for any inperson sessions. My 25 years of clinical experience have taught me about the courage those facing complex life difficulties bring to psychotherapy. Adults, children and adolescents are given help finding solutions. Mindfulness techniques which I have discovered the value of through a 25+ year meditation practice are also of benefit to clients who are looking to make life changes.
In my calm, safe, confidential office, I am currently offering HIPAA secure Online video sessions using a HIPPA-compliant secure platform or phone consultations. We integrate CDC guidelines for COVID-19 for any inperson sessions. My 25 years of clinical experience have taught me about the courage those facing complex life difficulties bring to psychotherapy. Adults, children and adolescents are given help finding solutions. Mindfulness techniques which I have discovered the value of through a 25+ year meditation practice are also of benefit to clients who are looking to make life changes.
(207) 747-3831 View (207) 747-3831
Photo of Margaret M Anzalone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Margaret M Anzalone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Oakland, ME 04963  (Online Only)
My approach to counseling and consulting draws from rich traditions of spirituality, energy healing, and psychology. My framework is TRANSFORMATIONAL in nature, insight-oriented, purposeful, and achieving wholeness from a personal or spiritual perspective. I am trained in both the behavioral sciences and religion. My goal is to provide therapeutic services to individuals and groups for all ages. I respect the dignity and worth of every person and consider it a privilege to WELCOME and ACCOMPANY people on their journey as challenging situations come up. Trained as a Pastoral Counselor, Clinical Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist, and Spiritual Director, my modality is eclectic.
My approach to counseling and consulting draws from rich traditions of spirituality, energy healing, and psychology. My framework is TRANSFORMATIONAL in nature, insight-oriented, purposeful, and achieving wholeness from a personal or spiritual perspective. I am trained in both the behavioral sciences and religion. My goal is to provide therapeutic services to individuals and groups for all ages. I respect the dignity and worth of every person and consider it a privilege to WELCOME and ACCOMPANY people on their journey as challenging situations come up. Trained as a Pastoral Counselor, Clinical Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist, and Spiritual Director, my modality is eclectic.
(978) 705-6595 View (978) 705-6595
Photo of Dr. Scott P Kavanagh, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maine
Dr. Scott P Kavanagh
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, DMin, LMHC, LPC, LCPC, ACPE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennebunk, ME 04043
Established Practice in Maine 2017. Life events can cause us to experience a variety of feelings such as anxiety, uncertainty, sadness, frustration, anger and even hopelessness. Stress impacts our relationships, work, financial well being, and families. There are chapters in everyone's life that are overwhelming and during these times it is wise and healthy to process with someone who is objective and understanding. Counseling can assist us in becoming unstuck. Sometimes short term intervention is all that is needed. Call to schedule an appointment.
Established Practice in Maine 2017. Life events can cause us to experience a variety of feelings such as anxiety, uncertainty, sadness, frustration, anger and even hopelessness. Stress impacts our relationships, work, financial well being, and families. There are chapters in everyone's life that are overwhelming and during these times it is wise and healthy to process with someone who is objective and understanding. Counseling can assist us in becoming unstuck. Sometimes short term intervention is all that is needed. Call to schedule an appointment.
(315) 939-1148 View (315) 939-1148

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.