Photo of Reena Bernards, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maryland
Reena Bernards
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Close and warm relationships are key to a successful family life, individual health, and to a happy life as a couple. I work collaboratively with families to improve communication between parent and child, deal with underlying emotions, and to address problems together. I help couples find their way back to the initial strong bond that brought them together. I assist parents in finding successful strategies to deal with emotional outbursts, school difficulties, and sibling conflicts. Together we address specific challenges that children face such as learning differences and mood swings. I specialize in working with adoption and multicultural families.
Close and warm relationships are key to a successful family life, individual health, and to a happy life as a couple. I work collaboratively with families to improve communication between parent and child, deal with underlying emotions, and to address problems together. I help couples find their way back to the initial strong bond that brought them together. I assist parents in finding successful strategies to deal with emotional outbursts, school difficulties, and sibling conflicts. Together we address specific challenges that children face such as learning differences and mood swings. I specialize in working with adoption and multicultural families.
(301) 433-7659 View (301) 433-7659
Photo of Benjamin Hurlburt, Counselor in Maryland
Benjamin Hurlburt
Counselor
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
I am trained in attachment-focused therapies such as TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) and Theraplay, especially designed for early developmental trauma experienced through foster care or adoption.
Immediate openings as of 4/28. Hi, I'm Ben! I work with children, teens & adults who want help with disordered eating or body image concerns, AFRID (restrictive eating), binge eating, depression, painful childhood experiences, or trauma. I am known for my patient & supportive nature, having a knack for helping clients open up and "put the pieces together" of their story. I use techniques such as CBT (assessing thought patterns & how they affect emotions, behavior or eating patterns), Health at Every Size, body positivity, EMDR & Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma, and art therapy. Faith-based counseling available upon request.
I am trained in attachment-focused therapies such as TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) and Theraplay, especially designed for early developmental trauma experienced through foster care or adoption.
Immediate openings as of 4/28. Hi, I'm Ben! I work with children, teens & adults who want help with disordered eating or body image concerns, AFRID (restrictive eating), binge eating, depression, painful childhood experiences, or trauma. I am known for my patient & supportive nature, having a knack for helping clients open up and "put the pieces together" of their story. I use techniques such as CBT (assessing thought patterns & how they affect emotions, behavior or eating patterns), Health at Every Size, body positivity, EMDR & Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma, and art therapy. Faith-based counseling available upon request.
(240) 692-3769 View (240) 692-3769
Photo of Jessica Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Jessica Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20742  (Online Only)
I provide counseling for individuals and families. I specialize in family-systems models, attachment oriented therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have worked with many individuals and families that struggle with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, and abusive relationships. In addition, I have experience working with children that are struggling with adoption. By utilizing an individualized insight-oriented approach, I can help both children and adults process emotions and achieve positive progress to reach their goals. I am a strong believer of the mind/body/spirit connection.
I provide counseling for individuals and families. I specialize in family-systems models, attachment oriented therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have worked with many individuals and families that struggle with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, and abusive relationships. In addition, I have experience working with children that are struggling with adoption. By utilizing an individualized insight-oriented approach, I can help both children and adults process emotions and achieve positive progress to reach their goals. I am a strong believer of the mind/body/spirit connection.
(410) 469-7463 View (410) 469-7463
Photo of Julie Bulitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Julie Bulitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906  (Online Only)
I am affiliated with Center for Adoption Support and Education (CASE) and was trained as adoption competent therapist.
I am committed to offering the very best in individual, couples and family therapy. Specialties include ADHD and executive function coaching, with an expertise in adoption, anxiety and learning disabilities. I use a strength based approach to helping people find life balance. I work with my clients to find strategies that help them improve their lives.
I am affiliated with Center for Adoption Support and Education (CASE) and was trained as adoption competent therapist.
I am committed to offering the very best in individual, couples and family therapy. Specialties include ADHD and executive function coaching, with an expertise in adoption, anxiety and learning disabilities. I use a strength based approach to helping people find life balance. I work with my clients to find strategies that help them improve their lives.
(240) 724-2528 View (240) 724-2528
Photo of The Barker Adoption Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
Are you wondering if your child's current struggles are related to developmental challenges related to adoption or something else; struggling with decisions about how and when to share specific adoption information with your child; is your child ready for search/reunion; need assistance navigating an open adoption, behavioral challenges? Give me a call.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
Are you wondering if your child's current struggles are related to developmental challenges related to adoption or something else; struggling with decisions about how and when to share specific adoption information with your child; is your child ready for search/reunion; need assistance navigating an open adoption, behavioral challenges? Give me a call.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
(240) 245-2720 View (240) 245-2720
Photo of Christa Carlton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Christa Carlton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people impacted by adoption and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, identity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
I specialize in working with people impacted by adoption and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, identity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
(443) 785-2982 View (443) 785-2982
Photo of Varda Makovsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Varda Makovsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902
I have a special interest and extensive experience working with individuals who were adopted - at all stages of their adult lives, as they explore how adoption may have impacted their lives, identity and relationships.
Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and/or are navigating life transitions, my goal is to create a safe and supportive space for exploration and growth. My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative. I work with clients to gain enhanced self-understanding, address challenges, build resilience, adopt new coping skills and affect meaningful change. Special areas of focus include: anxiety, depression, fertility and family-building, grief/loss, adult ADHD, family dynamics, and life transitions.
I have a special interest and extensive experience working with individuals who were adopted - at all stages of their adult lives, as they explore how adoption may have impacted their lives, identity and relationships.
Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and/or are navigating life transitions, my goal is to create a safe and supportive space for exploration and growth. My approach to therapy is client-centered and collaborative. I work with clients to gain enhanced self-understanding, address challenges, build resilience, adopt new coping skills and affect meaningful change. Special areas of focus include: anxiety, depression, fertility and family-building, grief/loss, adult ADHD, family dynamics, and life transitions.
(301) 701-5238 View (301) 701-5238
Photo of Carin Sailer, Counselor in Maryland
Carin Sailer
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Severna Park, MD 21146  (Online Only)
Carin has been an invited speaker on topics related to queer identity, figuring out parenthood, adoption, identity formation, spirituality, & the intersection of minoritized identities (e.
Carin Sailer LGPC (They/Them) helps individuals overcome feelings of anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem. They work with individuals on exploring identity, managing internalized “isms”, and finding new adaptive ways to cope. Carin specializes in working with individuals on general mental health concerns while also working with transgender & non-binary adults, parents processing their own identity (or their child’s), and those endorsing an identity in “mid-life” (whatever that means!)
Carin has been an invited speaker on topics related to queer identity, figuring out parenthood, adoption, identity formation, spirituality, & the intersection of minoritized identities (e.
Carin Sailer LGPC (They/Them) helps individuals overcome feelings of anxiety, depression, and poor self-esteem. They work with individuals on exploring identity, managing internalized “isms”, and finding new adaptive ways to cope. Carin specializes in working with individuals on general mental health concerns while also working with transgender & non-binary adults, parents processing their own identity (or their child’s), and those endorsing an identity in “mid-life” (whatever that means!)
(410) 498-5434 x210 View (410) 498-5434 x210
Photo of Joanne Wolf Small, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Joanne Wolf Small
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Forty years personal and professional experience uniquely qualifies me to understand the particular issues affecting individuals touched by adoption, infertility, kinship, attachment, and DNA search.
I believe we are all finally recognizing that a more holistic approach to treatment is needed. With over 40+ years of experience working in community mental health and private practice, I know the importance on our assessing and understanding all of the ways society impacts every individual. Everything around us matters, even beyond our personal relationships with our families, colleagues and friends. Speaking as a proud social worker, I know to effectively diagnose and treat a human problem needs a fully inclusive, psycho-social model of evaluation. I am here, tailored to help for your specific and unique needs.
Forty years personal and professional experience uniquely qualifies me to understand the particular issues affecting individuals touched by adoption, infertility, kinship, attachment, and DNA search.
I believe we are all finally recognizing that a more holistic approach to treatment is needed. With over 40+ years of experience working in community mental health and private practice, I know the importance on our assessing and understanding all of the ways society impacts every individual. Everything around us matters, even beyond our personal relationships with our families, colleagues and friends. Speaking as a proud social worker, I know to effectively diagnose and treat a human problem needs a fully inclusive, psycho-social model of evaluation. I am here, tailored to help for your specific and unique needs.
(301) 298-3135 View (301) 298-3135
Photo of Griff Doyle, Psychologist in Maryland
Griff Doyle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20825  (Online Only)
I have spent 42 years treating adults and couples suffering from depression, disabling anxiety, repeated relational problems, trauma, and grief.I also speciaize in child developmental and play therapies with a range of challenges for which I design treatment plans individually. I determine the course of child treatment according to my assessment of their level of development. I involve parents to varying extents in the therapy. Over the years, I have become most specialized working with separation/divorce, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral, and neuro-developmental, and adoption difficulties for children and their families.
I have spent 42 years treating adults and couples suffering from depression, disabling anxiety, repeated relational problems, trauma, and grief.I also speciaize in child developmental and play therapies with a range of challenges for which I design treatment plans individually. I determine the course of child treatment according to my assessment of their level of development. I involve parents to varying extents in the therapy. Over the years, I have become most specialized working with separation/divorce, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral, and neuro-developmental, and adoption difficulties for children and their families.
(301) 652-8308 View (301) 652-8308
Photo of Emma Wanroy, Counselor in Maryland
Emma Wanroy
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
Because of my lived experience as an adoptee, and training as an adoption competent therapist, I am most passionate about helping other adoptees navigate their identity and better understand how their adoption has impacted them throughout their lives.
I'm only seeing clients located in Maryland and fully virtual! I believe by exploring our past experiences and relationships we can find answers to better understand our own behaviors and thought processes. Our best healing happens throughout the context of a safe relationship and that is what I offer in therapy; a safe place where my client can explore their pain, trauma, hurt, and confusion in order to heal and live the most meaningful life possible. My clients know what their goals are and are excited to get to work but may need more accountability or support. Sometimes they aren't so clear and I can help with that, too!
Because of my lived experience as an adoptee, and training as an adoption competent therapist, I am most passionate about helping other adoptees navigate their identity and better understand how their adoption has impacted them throughout their lives.
I'm only seeing clients located in Maryland and fully virtual! I believe by exploring our past experiences and relationships we can find answers to better understand our own behaviors and thought processes. Our best healing happens throughout the context of a safe relationship and that is what I offer in therapy; a safe place where my client can explore their pain, trauma, hurt, and confusion in order to heal and live the most meaningful life possible. My clients know what their goals are and are excited to get to work but may need more accountability or support. Sometimes they aren't so clear and I can help with that, too!
(240) 512-8119 View (240) 512-8119
Photo of Linda L. Bloch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Linda L. Bloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-C, RN
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
My practice includes issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, adoption, domestic violence, grief.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. As both a Clinical Social Worker and Registered Nurse, I have a broad perspective on mental health issues and treatment options. I have over 25 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
My practice includes issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, adoption, domestic violence, grief.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. As both a Clinical Social Worker and Registered Nurse, I have a broad perspective on mental health issues and treatment options. I have over 25 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(301) 684-5357 View (301) 684-5357
Photo of Melissa Herendeen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Melissa Herendeen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I work with children, adolescents, and adults touched by adoption. Through an attachment and trauma-informed approach clients are able to find internal safety and better understanding of themselves and their experience as an adopted person, parent, or birth parent. Many clients come with complex layers of anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship challenges, and ambiguous grief. Through the therapeutic relationship clients gain tools for internal validation, strategies to best manage their challenges, and opportunities to explore complex emotions in a safe environment.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults touched by adoption. Through an attachment and trauma-informed approach clients are able to find internal safety and better understanding of themselves and their experience as an adopted person, parent, or birth parent. Many clients come with complex layers of anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship challenges, and ambiguous grief. Through the therapeutic relationship clients gain tools for internal validation, strategies to best manage their challenges, and opportunities to explore complex emotions in a safe environment.
(240) 652-2309 View (240) 652-2309
Photo of Rachel Harrison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Maryland
Rachel Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I specialize in working with those who have been touched by the circle of adoption, including individuals who have been adopted, adoptive families, and birth families.
Many people are facing difficult challenges in life, both past and present. If this is you, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and work together to create a plan for therapy that will lead to feeling better and to the resolution of your past difficulties. I specialize in EMDR Therapy, anxiety, and those touched by the circle of adoption.
I specialize in working with those who have been touched by the circle of adoption, including individuals who have been adopted, adoptive families, and birth families.
Many people are facing difficult challenges in life, both past and present. If this is you, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and work together to create a plan for therapy that will lead to feeling better and to the resolution of your past difficulties. I specialize in EMDR Therapy, anxiety, and those touched by the circle of adoption.
(301) 304-7108 View (301) 304-7108
Photo of Carroll Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Carroll Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286
Maybe you've seen lots of different therapists, how will adoption focused counseling be different? As a transracial adoptee myself, I have personal insight and have worked with many families like yours.
Finding a therapist you connect with can feel so overwhelming you avoid it. But that is probably why you're here, because there have been things you've been avoiding and you're ready to get some help. Being foster and adoptive parents is way harder than most people understand, especially those who haven't experienced the invasive and arduous process. As a teen or young adult, you might be feeling lost or angry. You might be having a harder time than others figuring out who are you are and where you fit in the world. My style fuses warmth, humor, and directness.
Maybe you've seen lots of different therapists, how will adoption focused counseling be different? As a transracial adoptee myself, I have personal insight and have worked with many families like yours.
Finding a therapist you connect with can feel so overwhelming you avoid it. But that is probably why you're here, because there have been things you've been avoiding and you're ready to get some help. Being foster and adoptive parents is way harder than most people understand, especially those who haven't experienced the invasive and arduous process. As a teen or young adult, you might be feeling lost or angry. You might be having a harder time than others figuring out who are you are and where you fit in the world. My style fuses warmth, humor, and directness.
(540) 401-5455 View (540) 401-5455
Photo of Heather Ulrich, Psychologist in Maryland
Heather Ulrich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elkton, MD 21921
Dr. Ulrich is using the latest technology to provide a new way to support separated or divorced parents navigating their separation for the best interest of their children including co-parenting therapy and parenting coordination. Using secure video conferencing, Dr. Ulrich assists parents and families in navigating their current environments in a healthy, adaptive manner to minimize further conflict or trauma. Dr. Ulrich also provides remote parent coaching for a wide range of child problems and specializes in parenting support for developmental trauma, reactive attachment disorder, and adoption/foster care families.
Dr. Ulrich is using the latest technology to provide a new way to support separated or divorced parents navigating their separation for the best interest of their children including co-parenting therapy and parenting coordination. Using secure video conferencing, Dr. Ulrich assists parents and families in navigating their current environments in a healthy, adaptive manner to minimize further conflict or trauma. Dr. Ulrich also provides remote parent coaching for a wide range of child problems and specializes in parenting support for developmental trauma, reactive attachment disorder, and adoption/foster care families.
(828) 668-5332 View (828) 668-5332
Photo of Nicole Jackson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Nicole Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I am ready to help you navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, childhood/religious trauma, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and adoption/foster care.
I believe that effective therapy is built on trust and unconditional empathy. My treatment approach is rooted in the importance of the individual, using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, and Somatic skills. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, judgment free space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. I am dedicated to taking the time to truly get to know you, so that I can incorporate your interests into treatment in creative ways. I want you to not only process your past, but be equipped with practical tools to fuel your future.
I am ready to help you navigate challenges such as anxiety, depression, childhood/religious trauma, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and adoption/foster care.
I believe that effective therapy is built on trust and unconditional empathy. My treatment approach is rooted in the importance of the individual, using methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strength-Based Therapy, and Somatic skills. In our sessions, you can expect a warm, judgment free space where you can openly express your thoughts and feelings. I am dedicated to taking the time to truly get to know you, so that I can incorporate your interests into treatment in creative ways. I want you to not only process your past, but be equipped with practical tools to fuel your future.
(301) 591-6086 View (301) 591-6086
Photo of Ana Maria Garcia, Psychologist in Maryland
Ana Maria Garcia
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
My services include comprehensive Parenting Competence Evaluations and Adoption Evaluations.
My counseling philosophy is based on the empathic understanding of the individual's circumstances and challenges impacting their functioning in life. I believe that insight, working in the “here and now,” addressing short and long-term goals, and acquiring healthy coping mechanisms are crucial to overcome emotional distress and acquire emotional growth. My philosophy as a therapist is that the clients are the EXPERTS and that the therapist is the one that follows the clients’ lead helping them to understand and solve in a healthy way their inner struggles and conflicts.
My services include comprehensive Parenting Competence Evaluations and Adoption Evaluations.
My counseling philosophy is based on the empathic understanding of the individual's circumstances and challenges impacting their functioning in life. I believe that insight, working in the “here and now,” addressing short and long-term goals, and acquiring healthy coping mechanisms are crucial to overcome emotional distress and acquire emotional growth. My philosophy as a therapist is that the clients are the EXPERTS and that the therapist is the one that follows the clients’ lead helping them to understand and solve in a healthy way their inner struggles and conflicts.
(443) 687-8830 View (443) 687-8830
Photo of Mary D Hill, Psychologist in Maryland
Mary D Hill
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Some of my experience includes dealing with ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome and Traits, Parenting Issues, Adoption, Anxiety (including PTSD and OCD), Depression and other Mood Disorders, Marital/Couple Problems, Adult-Teen Developmental Issues and Conflicts, Problems of Early Childhood, Personality Disorders, Transitions in life such as Divorce or Loss, and formal Cognitive and Personality Assessments.
It takes a lot of courage to seek help, especially in a world that unfairly stigmatizes getting psychological services. Lack of understanding of what therapy is and how people can benefit from it prevents some from using professional services to know and understand themselves better, to improve relationships, and to live more meaningful, fulfilling lives regardless of their challenges. Sometimes people have troubling symptoms due to anxiety, depression, and other disorders and need help to address these symptoms and their causes. I use a variety of approaches to help clients. My goal is to empower clients through a healthy, therapeutic relationship.
Some of my experience includes dealing with ADHD, Asperger's Syndrome and Traits, Parenting Issues, Adoption, Anxiety (including PTSD and OCD), Depression and other Mood Disorders, Marital/Couple Problems, Adult-Teen Developmental Issues and Conflicts, Problems of Early Childhood, Personality Disorders, Transitions in life such as Divorce or Loss, and formal Cognitive and Personality Assessments.
It takes a lot of courage to seek help, especially in a world that unfairly stigmatizes getting psychological services. Lack of understanding of what therapy is and how people can benefit from it prevents some from using professional services to know and understand themselves better, to improve relationships, and to live more meaningful, fulfilling lives regardless of their challenges. Sometimes people have troubling symptoms due to anxiety, depression, and other disorders and need help to address these symptoms and their causes. I use a variety of approaches to help clients. My goal is to empower clients through a healthy, therapeutic relationship.
(443) 334-8810 View (443) 334-8810
Photo of Cole Jaeschke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Cole Jaeschke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Brunswick, MD 21716  (Online Only)
I welcome all clients who are interested in working on any issues which are interfering with their own happiness, including issues of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexuality, gender identity, and adoption/fertility related issues. I work with each client individually to create goals that are purposeful, meaningful, and attainable. I frequently revisit treatment goals, so that clients can reflect their own process and progress in therapy.
I welcome all clients who are interested in working on any issues which are interfering with their own happiness, including issues of depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sexuality, gender identity, and adoption/fertility related issues. I work with each client individually to create goals that are purposeful, meaningful, and attainable. I frequently revisit treatment goals, so that clients can reflect their own process and progress in therapy.
(410) 267-4986 View (410) 267-4986
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.