Adoption Therapists in Hyattsville, MD

Photo of FajInc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
FajInc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20784
My ideal client is one that is challenged with depression, relationship issues, domestic violence, parenting problems or just dealing with life as a whole. I have been a therapist for over twenty years and have a pleathea of experience in depression, anxiety, relationship and grief. If you are seeking support for your mental well-being then please give therapy a try. Check out my website at Fajexams.com
My ideal client is one that is challenged with depression, relationship issues, domestic violence, parenting problems or just dealing with life as a whole. I have been a therapist for over twenty years and have a pleathea of experience in depression, anxiety, relationship and grief. If you are seeking support for your mental well-being then please give therapy a try. Check out my website at Fajexams.com
(301) 637-4038 View (301) 637-4038
Photo of Vicki Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Vicki Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, EFTcert
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20783  (Online Only)
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress, and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. As you gain emotional freedom, you will be able to move forward in your work and personal life.
Is emotional baggage weighing you down? Traumatic events are usually the source of depression, anxiety, anger and weight issues. Overcome your pain from past child abuse, sexual assault, emotional neglect, abandonment, divorce, or other maltreatment. My Trauma Relief Program effectively heals my clients' emotional wounds. This gentle process can effectively help you to relieve the burden of your emotional distress, and leave the past behind you. Your pain will be deeply understood, and gently released. Depression, anxiety and anger lift. As you gain emotional freedom, you will be able to move forward in your work and personal life.
(301) 684-8194 View (301) 684-8194
Photo of Bowman Therapeutics, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Bowman Therapeutics, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, PhD
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20781  (Online Only)
My clinical approach is rooted in the belief that every individual is unique and requires a personalized therapeutic experience. I am passionate about tailoring my interventions to meet the distinctive needs of my clients, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach is not effective in addressing the complexities of their lives. Specializing in working with adolescents and adults navigating high-stress environments, my commitment is to empower individuals to confront and overcome the challenges they face, promoting resilience. I assist clients with reimbursement for therapy with all major insurances using simple practice.
My clinical approach is rooted in the belief that every individual is unique and requires a personalized therapeutic experience. I am passionate about tailoring my interventions to meet the distinctive needs of my clients, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach is not effective in addressing the complexities of their lives. Specializing in working with adolescents and adults navigating high-stress environments, my commitment is to empower individuals to confront and overcome the challenges they face, promoting resilience. I assist clients with reimbursement for therapy with all major insurances using simple practice.
(202) 946-4017 View (202) 946-4017
Photo of Marie Fonrose, Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Marie Fonrose
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NBCT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Hyattsville, MD 20783
Have you ever heard the phrase "we solve our own problems". Or that it is a weakness to express your emotions. Are you from a culture where it is not okay to see a therapist? Are you overwhelmed with thoughts? If you could just talk to someone about it...Well you are in the right place. Here you will find a warm and safe place to express these feelings or emotions, manage stress, reduce anxiety, cope with depression or grief, understand anger, and deal with life's transitions without violating your family or cultural principles.
Have you ever heard the phrase "we solve our own problems". Or that it is a weakness to express your emotions. Are you from a culture where it is not okay to see a therapist? Are you overwhelmed with thoughts? If you could just talk to someone about it...Well you are in the right place. Here you will find a warm and safe place to express these feelings or emotions, manage stress, reduce anxiety, cope with depression or grief, understand anger, and deal with life's transitions without violating your family or cultural principles.
(301) 850-2431 View (301) 850-2431
Photo of Achieving Joy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Achieving Joy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20781
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
(301) 691-3874 View (301) 691-3874
Photo of Total Wellbeing Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Total Wellbeing Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20782  (Online Only)
Would you like to know what therapy can do for you? The first sessions will allow you to discover if therapy can support your growth and any life challenges you may be encountering in your present journey. I will make use of my listening skills to collaborate with and explore with you the past and present concerns that may need to be considered for therapeutic care.
Would you like to know what therapy can do for you? The first sessions will allow you to discover if therapy can support your growth and any life challenges you may be encountering in your present journey. I will make use of my listening skills to collaborate with and explore with you the past and present concerns that may need to be considered for therapeutic care.
(240) 453-4340 View (240) 453-4340
Photo of Breighone Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Breighone Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hyattsville, MD 20783
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
Are you suffering from symptoms of depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar, autism spectrum, OCD, and/or PTSD? I'm here to help facilitate your healing process and provide a safe space to voice your deepest concerns freely. Our goal is to significantly improve your self-concept, increase a positive outlook on life, and, most importantly, feel like your best self.
(667) 326-8783 View (667) 326-8783
Photo of Multicultural Counseling & Consulting Center LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Multicultural Counseling & Consulting Center LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hyattsville, MD 20783
La vida es una cadena de transiciones que muchas veces a las personas se nos hace un poco complicado sobrellevar o resolver. Y aunque los cambios nos dan la oportunidad de crecimiento, es muy cierto que estos mismos cambios nos traen mucha angustia y desequilibrio emocional. Yo puedo ayudarte a descubrir y desarrollar las habilidades necesarias para que puedas mantenerte enfocado(a) en lo que es la prioridad para ti y para todos aquellos que te rodean durante estos procesos naturales de transición.
La vida es una cadena de transiciones que muchas veces a las personas se nos hace un poco complicado sobrellevar o resolver. Y aunque los cambios nos dan la oportunidad de crecimiento, es muy cierto que estos mismos cambios nos traen mucha angustia y desequilibrio emocional. Yo puedo ayudarte a descubrir y desarrollar las habilidades necesarias para que puedas mantenerte enfocado(a) en lo que es la prioridad para ti y para todos aquellos que te rodean durante estos procesos naturales de transición.
(240) 823-4580 View (240) 823-4580
Photo of Nancy Sharpe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Nancy Sharpe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hyattsville, MD 20781
Not accepting new clients
Limited spots available in person on Wednesday. Please e-mail me. Seeking support is a courageous act of self-love. I would love to explore the possibility of working together. Clients often come in with symptoms of depression and anxiety and feel disconnected from themselves and others. My hope is to build a trusting relationship where you can explore the emotional obstacles that are preventing you from reaching your goals, and to help you identify the underlying emotions motivating behaviors such as hurt, sadness, fear, loss, and loneliness. My clients report feeling listened to, understood, and empowered.
Limited spots available in person on Wednesday. Please e-mail me. Seeking support is a courageous act of self-love. I would love to explore the possibility of working together. Clients often come in with symptoms of depression and anxiety and feel disconnected from themselves and others. My hope is to build a trusting relationship where you can explore the emotional obstacles that are preventing you from reaching your goals, and to help you identify the underlying emotions motivating behaviors such as hurt, sadness, fear, loss, and loneliness. My clients report feeling listened to, understood, and empowered.
(240) 245-2761 View (240) 245-2761

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
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 Joanne Wolf Small, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
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 Reena Bernards, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
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 Julia Han, Psychologist in Hyattsville, MD
Julia Han
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Welcome to my site. Finding the right therapist can be daunting, so let me give you a sense of how I work. Most appreciate how engaged & active I am, We will explore not only the reasons for your difficulties, BUT more importantly, how stress affects your body; how you internalize thoughts of self & others. Thoughts lead to-> Beliefs -> Habits; automatic responses. I will give you tools to help with difficult emotions. I specialize in: 1) postpartum, 2) trauma/grief, 3) non-traditional family formation, 4) adoption, 5) ThirdCultureKid, 6) LGBTQ. I am open to explore non-traditional methods to assist you in the healing process.
Welcome to my site. Finding the right therapist can be daunting, so let me give you a sense of how I work. Most appreciate how engaged & active I am, We will explore not only the reasons for your difficulties, BUT more importantly, how stress affects your body; how you internalize thoughts of self & others. Thoughts lead to-> Beliefs -> Habits; automatic responses. I will give you tools to help with difficult emotions. I specialize in: 1) postpartum, 2) trauma/grief, 3) non-traditional family formation, 4) adoption, 5) ThirdCultureKid, 6) LGBTQ. I am open to explore non-traditional methods to assist you in the healing process.
(202) 643-2966 View (202) 643-2966
Photo of Varda Makovsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
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 Melissa Herendeen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
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 Emma Wanroy, Counselor in Hyattsville, MD
Emma Wanroy
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chevy Chase, MD 20815  (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 The Barker Adoption Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
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 Victoria Alves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
Victoria Alves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
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; assessing readiness for navigating relationships with birth families; or struggling with difficult behaviors? I can help.
Victoria was transracially adopted from China as an infant. Her previous work history includes: supervising visitation between parents and their children, working as a school counselor in a public charter school, providing intensive, home-based therapy to children with intense emotional and behavioral needs, and providing clinical case management to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Victoria believes strongly in client-oriented services and that everyone should have access to the opportunities and support that they need to succeed. Victoria is also passionate about self-improvement and continuing to learn throughout your life.
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; assessing readiness for navigating relationships with birth families; or struggling with difficult behaviors? I can help.
Victoria was transracially adopted from China as an infant. Her previous work history includes: supervising visitation between parents and their children, working as a school counselor in a public charter school, providing intensive, home-based therapy to children with intense emotional and behavioral needs, and providing clinical case management to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Victoria believes strongly in client-oriented services and that everyone should have access to the opportunities and support that they need to succeed. Victoria is also passionate about self-improvement and continuing to learn throughout your life.
(240) 716-5698 View (240) 716-5698
Photo of Griff Doyle, Psychologist in Hyattsville, MD
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 CRM Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hyattsville, MD
CRM Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20708  (Online Only)
20+ years of experience in various settings including child welfare, adoption, criminal justice and schools, have provided me extensive expertise in helping clients manage grief, loss, interpersonal relationships, anxiety and stress.
In life, we all come to stages, at times, where we acknowledge that we need support. If you are frustrated, anxious, sad, confused and/or unsure of where your relationship or life is headed, I can help! Whether you are experiencing health concerns, relationship issues, personal conflicts or any other life transitions, learning to cope can be a game changer and you can gain the skills for better clarity and peace. My service is provided via confidential online therapy only.
20+ years of experience in various settings including child welfare, adoption, criminal justice and schools, have provided me extensive expertise in helping clients manage grief, loss, interpersonal relationships, anxiety and stress.
In life, we all come to stages, at times, where we acknowledge that we need support. If you are frustrated, anxious, sad, confused and/or unsure of where your relationship or life is headed, I can help! Whether you are experiencing health concerns, relationship issues, personal conflicts or any other life transitions, learning to cope can be a game changer and you can gain the skills for better clarity and peace. My service is provided via confidential online therapy only.
(240) 802-8746 View (240) 802-8746

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.