Adoption Therapists in Wayland, MI

Photo of Jeanne Meyers, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeanne Meyers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayland, MI 49348
Life's journey is an unpredictable adventure, full of seasons of splendor and seasons that shake us to our core. Some days, it feels as though we are wandering in a maze, grappling with battles that loom large on the horizon. As a clinician, my calling is to stand by your side, whether you're an individual, a child, or a family, offering solace and hope as you traverse the trials on your quest for healing.
Life's journey is an unpredictable adventure, full of seasons of splendor and seasons that shake us to our core. Some days, it feels as though we are wandering in a maze, grappling with battles that loom large on the horizon. As a clinician, my calling is to stand by your side, whether you're an individual, a child, or a family, offering solace and hope as you traverse the trials on your quest for healing.
(269) 397-8980 View (269) 397-8980
Photo of Christina Schug, LMSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Schug
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayland, MI 49348
My goal is to create space for you to experience the freedom that comes with the challenging work of growth and healing. Whether you are a new mother in need of a place to sit with a cup of coffee and feel supported through postpartum adjustment; a parent who longs to help their child cope with trauma, or if you are ready to heal from trauma of your own, my door is open. It is my sincere honor to come alongside you as you take this courageous step toward tangible and positive life change.
My goal is to create space for you to experience the freedom that comes with the challenging work of growth and healing. Whether you are a new mother in need of a place to sit with a cup of coffee and feel supported through postpartum adjustment; a parent who longs to help their child cope with trauma, or if you are ready to heal from trauma of your own, my door is open. It is my sincere honor to come alongside you as you take this courageous step toward tangible and positive life change.
(269) 225-6802 View (269) 225-6802

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Becky Mills, LMSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becky Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middleville, MI 49333
Circumstances are building and you fear that its weight will eventually grow to crush and consume you. You have so much to manage and yet you long to just let go of it all. You’re ready for a change, but it is terrifying. To face it may cause you to crumble, nevertheless, you will yourself to get through each day. If this sounds familiar and you wish to do more than get by, it is possible to flourish again. I aim to create a safe and empowering environment built upon a trusting therapeutic relationship so you can successfully heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief and work toward thriving in your daily life.
Circumstances are building and you fear that its weight will eventually grow to crush and consume you. You have so much to manage and yet you long to just let go of it all. You’re ready for a change, but it is terrifying. To face it may cause you to crumble, nevertheless, you will yourself to get through each day. If this sounds familiar and you wish to do more than get by, it is possible to flourish again. I aim to create a safe and empowering environment built upon a trusting therapeutic relationship so you can successfully heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief and work toward thriving in your daily life.
(616) 537-2805 View (616) 537-2805
Photo of Kevin Todd DeKam - West Michigan Wellness Group, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
West Michigan Wellness Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Byron Center, MI 49315
At some point in life, everyone gets stuck. Stuck in a difficult relationship, in depression or anxiety, on an unfulfilling or stalled career path, or maybe stuck on a past wound or trauma. You may be wondering, “How do I get out of this mess?” You don’t need to struggle alone. That’s why at West Michigan Wellness Group, we make it simple to start moving forward. 1) Contact us today. 2) Start a conversation. 3) Move forward towards wellness. Our boutique counseling practice will help you tailor a plan for wellness and meet the individual needs of you and your family.
At some point in life, everyone gets stuck. Stuck in a difficult relationship, in depression or anxiety, on an unfulfilling or stalled career path, or maybe stuck on a past wound or trauma. You may be wondering, “How do I get out of this mess?” You don’t need to struggle alone. That’s why at West Michigan Wellness Group, we make it simple to start moving forward. 1) Contact us today. 2) Start a conversation. 3) Move forward towards wellness. Our boutique counseling practice will help you tailor a plan for wellness and meet the individual needs of you and your family.
(616) 345-2787 View (616) 345-2787

Online Therapists

Photo of Carol Harvey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
Specialties: Adoption issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma, Adolescents, Adults, Families, and Marriages.
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
Specialties: Adoption issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma, Adolescents, Adults, Families, and Marriages.
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
(269) 280-4088 View (269) 280-4088
Photo of Christine Carrothers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Carrothers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dewitt, MI 48820  (Online Only)
Specific areas of expertise include adoption, transracial identity, and traumatic grief.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, young adults, and adults from a trauma informed perspective to gain healing and wellness. My focus for providing quality care is to establish a safe space for clients to do their best work at learning self care, positive self image, and safe boundaries. I utilize an eclectic approach with clients, helping them pursue the right care for their needs.
Specific areas of expertise include adoption, transracial identity, and traumatic grief.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, young adults, and adults from a trauma informed perspective to gain healing and wellness. My focus for providing quality care is to establish a safe space for clients to do their best work at learning self care, positive self image, and safe boundaries. I utilize an eclectic approach with clients, helping them pursue the right care for their needs.
(734) 404-7514 View (734) 404-7514
Angela Welch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grandville, MI 49418
My career as a licensed professional counselor has always focused on children and families. I discovered a particular passion for family preservation, foster care and adoption that later lead me to early childhood and infant mental health.
My career as a licensed professional counselor has always focused on children and families. I discovered a particular passion for family preservation, foster care and adoption that later lead me to early childhood and infant mental health.
(616) 404-4099 View (616) 404-4099
Photo of Marissa Dulcamaro, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Dulcamaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Ann Arbor, MI 48104  (Online Only)
I have experience and I am very passionate about working with those within the adoption constellation, families, pregnant/postpartum, and those experiencing grief.
Hi- I’m so happy you’re here! Being human is not always easy, and, at times, navigating what life has to offer can feel complicated or overwhelming. Because of this, we all sometimes need some extra support, a listening-ear, or a safe space to just talk about everything and anything. I would love to work with you to build a safe, meaningful, and collaborative space to explore your thoughts and emotions while also helping you to develop new skills, understandings, and ways of healing.
I have experience and I am very passionate about working with those within the adoption constellation, families, pregnant/postpartum, and those experiencing grief.
Hi- I’m so happy you’re here! Being human is not always easy, and, at times, navigating what life has to offer can feel complicated or overwhelming. Because of this, we all sometimes need some extra support, a listening-ear, or a safe space to just talk about everything and anything. I would love to work with you to build a safe, meaningful, and collaborative space to explore your thoughts and emotions while also helping you to develop new skills, understandings, and ways of healing.
(734) 807-3558 View (734) 807-3558
Photo of Cheryl Rosenbaum, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Cheryl Rosenbaum
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Battle Creek, MI 49014
I enjoy working with young children, teens, young adults & families. Many of my clients have struggled with issues like anxiety, depression, self injury, social skills, parenting, adoption, & adjusting to new situations. Parents/caregivers are welcome to join sessions if they desire (as clinically appropriate) as a way to learn skills along with their child/family. This helps support the skills learned within sessions & outside of sessions, when at home & in the community. This empowers the client & family & helps everyone feel like they are mastering the skills learned in sessions. I am supervised by a licensed PHD.
I enjoy working with young children, teens, young adults & families. Many of my clients have struggled with issues like anxiety, depression, self injury, social skills, parenting, adoption, & adjusting to new situations. Parents/caregivers are welcome to join sessions if they desire (as clinically appropriate) as a way to learn skills along with their child/family. This helps support the skills learned within sessions & outside of sessions, when at home & in the community. This empowers the client & family & helps everyone feel like they are mastering the skills learned in sessions. I am supervised by a licensed PHD.
(269) 924-0107 View (269) 924-0107
Photo of Jessica Flewelling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Flewelling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864  (Online Only)
I have specialties working with children in foster-care/ adoption, adoptive/foster/biological parents, as well as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
As your therapist, I want to help you to discover what patterns in your life prevent you from thriving. I seek to help you uncover what events in your past contribute to any traumas, emotional difficulties, and fears. My goal is to journey with you in your healing. I will foster a safe environment in which to do these things.
I have specialties working with children in foster-care/ adoption, adoptive/foster/biological parents, as well as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
As your therapist, I want to help you to discover what patterns in your life prevent you from thriving. I seek to help you uncover what events in your past contribute to any traumas, emotional difficulties, and fears. My goal is to journey with you in your healing. I will foster a safe environment in which to do these things.
(517) 879-0049 View (517) 879-0049
Photo of Keisha McDonald, MS, MA, LPC, CATP, NCC, Counselor
Keisha McDonald
Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CATP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Are you seeing a counselor you don't vibe with? I specialize in going beyond traditional talk therapy to help people who are struggling with LIFE. My goal is to help you feel empowered to live as your true, authentic self. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and can be experienced in various forms. I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and relationships through the use of expressive arts. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track to obtain your successful outcome.
Are you seeing a counselor you don't vibe with? I specialize in going beyond traditional talk therapy to help people who are struggling with LIFE. My goal is to help you feel empowered to live as your true, authentic self. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and can be experienced in various forms. I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and relationships through the use of expressive arts. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track to obtain your successful outcome.
(616) 266-7081 View (616) 266-7081
Photo of Travis Ericksen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Travis Ericksen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
I am skilled at treating topics such as stress, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, adoption, grief and loss, men's issues, relationship issues, psychosis, suicidal thoughts, infertility, coping with health issues, older adults, and dementia.
Courage is not the absence of fear. Rather, it is a mindset of moving forward despite the fear because something else is more important. You are reading this page because you already realized your wellbeing is more important than whatever emotions or challenges are trying to hold you back from your full potential. You taking this first step of seeking help is truly a courageous act and a sign of inner strength. As your counselor, I will help you develop a new mindset of courage and resilience to confidently face life’s challenges. My goal is to create a safe place for you to reevaluate your lived experiences, emotions, and thinking.
I am skilled at treating topics such as stress, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, adoption, grief and loss, men's issues, relationship issues, psychosis, suicidal thoughts, infertility, coping with health issues, older adults, and dementia.
Courage is not the absence of fear. Rather, it is a mindset of moving forward despite the fear because something else is more important. You are reading this page because you already realized your wellbeing is more important than whatever emotions or challenges are trying to hold you back from your full potential. You taking this first step of seeking help is truly a courageous act and a sign of inner strength. As your counselor, I will help you develop a new mindset of courage and resilience to confidently face life’s challenges. My goal is to create a safe place for you to reevaluate your lived experiences, emotions, and thinking.
(269) 257-2162 View (269) 257-2162
Photo of Katie Bozek, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Bozek
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
There are several issues in which I have a special interest in, such as, adoption-related issues, couple concerns, parenting concerns and issues related to trauma.
I believe people are relational-beings, meaning, we develop and live our lives in relationships with others. When these relationships become distressed, it can lead to a multitude of feelings, such as depression, stress, anxiety and an overall feeling of uneasiness. These are the times when a person may need some guidance and help accessing their personal resources to find more balance in those relationships and in life in general.
There are several issues in which I have a special interest in, such as, adoption-related issues, couple concerns, parenting concerns and issues related to trauma.
I believe people are relational-beings, meaning, we develop and live our lives in relationships with others. When these relationships become distressed, it can lead to a multitude of feelings, such as depression, stress, anxiety and an overall feeling of uneasiness. These are the times when a person may need some guidance and help accessing their personal resources to find more balance in those relationships and in life in general.
(616) 541-5812 View (616) 541-5812
Photo of Robin Shankin, PsyD, DTLLP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robin Shankin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, DTLLP, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
I work with issues related to anxiety, depression, family issues, life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, attachment issues/ adoption, women’s issues, and neuropsychological disorders.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, or lost and want a place to sort things out? Therapy is designed to be that space, and as a therapist, my goal is to create a compassionate, safe, nonjudgmental space for you just to be you. One of my mottos is, “It’s okay not to be okay.” I want to work with you whether you are processing sudden transitions, past trauma, or desire to learn and explore emotions for the first time. I love therapy and believe it works when we have the right fit. I use a person-centered approach and evidence-based practices to guide therapy and offer tools to help manage overwhelming feelings and situations.
I work with issues related to anxiety, depression, family issues, life transitions, grief and loss, trauma, attachment issues/ adoption, women’s issues, and neuropsychological disorders.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, or lost and want a place to sort things out? Therapy is designed to be that space, and as a therapist, my goal is to create a compassionate, safe, nonjudgmental space for you just to be you. One of my mottos is, “It’s okay not to be okay.” I want to work with you whether you are processing sudden transitions, past trauma, or desire to learn and explore emotions for the first time. I love therapy and believe it works when we have the right fit. I use a person-centered approach and evidence-based practices to guide therapy and offer tools to help manage overwhelming feelings and situations.
(616) 681-4635 View (616) 681-4635
Photo of Natasha L Rietveld - Natasha Rietveld, LMSW, LCSW, PLLC, LMSW, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natasha Rietveld, LMSW, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with clients learning to manage depression, anxiety, grief, self esteem issues, relationship issues, self harm, divorce recovery, domestic violence, women's issues, child abuse, post adoption concerns, and Dementia.
As you seek out a counselor, you can understandably feel vulnerable at times. I provide a supportive space for you come as you are. It's a privilege when you trust and allow me to walk alongside you through challenges but also to celebrate your successes. It is rewarding to work with you, to learn together and to help you reach a more full life. For over twenty years I have offered support in relational work with children, teens, adults and families helping them navigate life transitions and offered information on supportive services.
I specialize in working with clients learning to manage depression, anxiety, grief, self esteem issues, relationship issues, self harm, divorce recovery, domestic violence, women's issues, child abuse, post adoption concerns, and Dementia.
As you seek out a counselor, you can understandably feel vulnerable at times. I provide a supportive space for you come as you are. It's a privilege when you trust and allow me to walk alongside you through challenges but also to celebrate your successes. It is rewarding to work with you, to learn together and to help you reach a more full life. For over twenty years I have offered support in relational work with children, teens, adults and families helping them navigate life transitions and offered information on supportive services.
(616) 239-3097 View (616) 239-3097
Photo of Tessa Simon, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tessa Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples with a variety of topics including; depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, adoption, relationships, self-esteem, identity, the LGBTQIA+ community & life transitions.
Virtual Only Appointments - Asking for help can be challenging so give yourself credit for taking the first step. I am honored to serve as a guide and provide support while you work through this part of your life. My goal is to provide a safe and judgement free environment where you can navigate the challenges of everyday life and process past experiences.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples with a variety of topics including; depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, adoption, relationships, self-esteem, identity, the LGBTQIA+ community & life transitions.
Virtual Only Appointments - Asking for help can be challenging so give yourself credit for taking the first step. I am honored to serve as a guide and provide support while you work through this part of your life. My goal is to provide a safe and judgement free environment where you can navigate the challenges of everyday life and process past experiences.
(616) 947-3805 View (616) 947-3805
Photo of Kimberly Cena, LMSW, IMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Cena
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
Lansing, MI 48917
Caya Counseling serves adults and children with a wide range of concerns including, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, trauma, stress, grief/loss, infant mental health issues, attachment work, and post adoption.
Everyone deserves a sense of control over their lives. When terrible things happen it can feel like the wind has been knocked out of you. The world feels unsafe. Feelings of deep sadness, fear, shame and a rawness seem to linger. Many people feel as though they are damaged goods and wonder if they will ever be themselves again, or if they will ever be happy again. Imagine what it will be like when you have more good days then bad, when you feel the laughter, when you hear your child start to sing again. In a relaxed, safe environment you will receive support, encouragement, and the skills you need to thrive not just survive.
Caya Counseling serves adults and children with a wide range of concerns including, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, trauma, stress, grief/loss, infant mental health issues, attachment work, and post adoption.
Everyone deserves a sense of control over their lives. When terrible things happen it can feel like the wind has been knocked out of you. The world feels unsafe. Feelings of deep sadness, fear, shame and a rawness seem to linger. Many people feel as though they are damaged goods and wonder if they will ever be themselves again, or if they will ever be happy again. Imagine what it will be like when you have more good days then bad, when you feel the laughter, when you hear your child start to sing again. In a relaxed, safe environment you will receive support, encouragement, and the skills you need to thrive not just survive.
(517) 201-2834 View (517) 201-2834
Photo of Mamie Routhier - - Tava And Headway, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mamie Routhier - - Tava And Headway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holt, MI 48842  (Online Only)
I am a master level clinical therapist. I have 30 years experience working with adults, kids, teens and families with a wide range of concerns. I specialize in all kinds trauma, but have experience with a wide variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and family relationships. I also have 15 years experience working with kids on the Autism Spectrum and/or coaching their parents. In addition, I have worked extensively with foster care and adoption.
I am a master level clinical therapist. I have 30 years experience working with adults, kids, teens and families with a wide range of concerns. I specialize in all kinds trauma, but have experience with a wide variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and family relationships. I also have 15 years experience working with kids on the Autism Spectrum and/or coaching their parents. In addition, I have worked extensively with foster care and adoption.
(517) 236-8492 View (517) 236-8492
Photo of Nichole Holliday, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole Holliday
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008  (Online Only)
I have worked with various populations concentrating on Adoption/Foster Care, Anger, Anxiety, ADHD, Behavior, Depression, Divorce Transitions, Impulse Control, Life Changes, Parenting Skills, School Problems, Self-Esteem, Cognitive Approaches for Sensory Processing Disorders, Social Skills Development, and Stress Management.
I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change. Clients take a journey to better understanding of themselves and others. We will set personal goals, and work together toward desired change through reflection, processing and skill building. When working with children I work with the child individually and also invite parents/guardians into session to learn skills to utilize at home to support the child with change.
I have worked with various populations concentrating on Adoption/Foster Care, Anger, Anxiety, ADHD, Behavior, Depression, Divorce Transitions, Impulse Control, Life Changes, Parenting Skills, School Problems, Self-Esteem, Cognitive Approaches for Sensory Processing Disorders, Social Skills Development, and Stress Management.
I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change. Clients take a journey to better understanding of themselves and others. We will set personal goals, and work together toward desired change through reflection, processing and skill building. When working with children I work with the child individually and also invite parents/guardians into session to learn skills to utilize at home to support the child with change.
(269) 210-3805 View (269) 210-3805
Photo of Melissa Brophy, LPC, CAADC, TF-CBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Brophy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grandville, MI 49418
The ups and downs in life can be unexpected and difficult. I strive to partner with my clients to help them better cope with challenging life situations. My specialty is helping others to better learn about, understand, and cope with past trauma so that they are able to move forward in life. I believe in the power of coping skills, self-care, and evidence-based practices. I've worked with survivors of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, addiction, accidents, loss, and everyday stress. I also have extensive experience supporting those involved with the foster care system and adoption.
The ups and downs in life can be unexpected and difficult. I strive to partner with my clients to help them better cope with challenging life situations. My specialty is helping others to better learn about, understand, and cope with past trauma so that they are able to move forward in life. I believe in the power of coping skills, self-care, and evidence-based practices. I've worked with survivors of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, addiction, accidents, loss, and everyday stress. I also have extensive experience supporting those involved with the foster care system and adoption.
(616) 841-9088 View (616) 841-9088

See more therapy options for Wayland

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.