Adoption Therapists in Michigan

Photo of Rebecca Hobson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Rebecca Hobson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
We have all felt a lack of connection at some time, whether it is lack of connection with others or lack of connection with ourselves. It is common for this feeling to become more profound at specific times or due to certain experiences. This may include experiences with trauma, foster care and adoption, grief and loss, infertility, or unexpected circumstances or changes, such as divorce, challenges with children's development, illness/loss of a loved one, or changes in employment. My focus is in helping clients to develop a stronger sense of connection toward the goal of finding a new sense of meaning, acceptance, and fulfillment.
We have all felt a lack of connection at some time, whether it is lack of connection with others or lack of connection with ourselves. It is common for this feeling to become more profound at specific times or due to certain experiences. This may include experiences with trauma, foster care and adoption, grief and loss, infertility, or unexpected circumstances or changes, such as divorce, challenges with children's development, illness/loss of a loved one, or changes in employment. My focus is in helping clients to develop a stronger sense of connection toward the goal of finding a new sense of meaning, acceptance, and fulfillment.
(616) 209-9295 View (616) 209-9295
Photo of Lorie Moran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Lorie Moran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Clarkston, MI 48346
Sometimes when you feel broken, you need the help of another to rebuild. But where do you start when you’re seeking a therapist who is empathetic and experienced, supportive and compassionate? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years experience, I promise I am here to offer you a hand, not a judgment. Almost three decades, I have worked with individuals, couples and families specializing in depression, anxiety, grief/loss, bereavement, caregiver stress, managing chronic illness, family issues, relationship struggles, adoption related issues and adjustment disorders/life transitions.
Sometimes when you feel broken, you need the help of another to rebuild. But where do you start when you’re seeking a therapist who is empathetic and experienced, supportive and compassionate? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years experience, I promise I am here to offer you a hand, not a judgment. Almost three decades, I have worked with individuals, couples and families specializing in depression, anxiety, grief/loss, bereavement, caregiver stress, managing chronic illness, family issues, relationship struggles, adoption related issues and adjustment disorders/life transitions.
(248) 479-3984 View (248) 479-3984
Photo of Emily Sluiter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Emily Sluiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PHM-C, CYT-200
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I specialize in working with women in the family-building phase of life, including infertility, pregnancy/post-partum anxiety and depression, surrogacy, as well as supporting all members of the adoption constellation. I have 15+ years experience working with diverse individuals and I hope to create a safe space for you to explore whatever is important to you. I believe we all thrive in spaces where we can be fully known and celebrated for who we truly are and I aim to bring authenticity, curiosity and possibly some humor to our work together.
I specialize in working with women in the family-building phase of life, including infertility, pregnancy/post-partum anxiety and depression, surrogacy, as well as supporting all members of the adoption constellation. I have 15+ years experience working with diverse individuals and I hope to create a safe space for you to explore whatever is important to you. I believe we all thrive in spaces where we can be fully known and celebrated for who we truly are and I aim to bring authenticity, curiosity and possibly some humor to our work together.
(616) 202-6560 View (616) 202-6560
Photo of Victoria Schreiber in Michigan
Victoria Schreiber
MA, LMSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Welcome to my Practice. I have been in private practice for 40 years. I have been providing Psychotherapy and Parent guidance and child Psychoanalysis. I specialize in adoption, trauma, depression and anxiety. Managing the pandemic has become especially needed as so of us many are facing Coronavirus related issues and difficulties that increase anxiety and depression. In addition to seeing patients individually, I provide consultation services to pre-schools, day care centers, grief support groups, teachers and social service agencies. I am available currently exclusively on Telehealth platforms and by phone.
Welcome to my Practice. I have been in private practice for 40 years. I have been providing Psychotherapy and Parent guidance and child Psychoanalysis. I specialize in adoption, trauma, depression and anxiety. Managing the pandemic has become especially needed as so of us many are facing Coronavirus related issues and difficulties that increase anxiety and depression. In addition to seeing patients individually, I provide consultation services to pre-schools, day care centers, grief support groups, teachers and social service agencies. I am available currently exclusively on Telehealth platforms and by phone.
(947) 222-2541 View (947) 222-2541
Photo of Horizon Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Horizon Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wixom, MI 48393
Are you or your child having difficulties? I provide psychotherapy that addresses numerous concerns facing children, adults, families. I specialize in trauma, adoption, depression and anxiety, adjusting to transitions, spirituality, and mindfulness. I can provide the safety, support, and encouragement you or your child needs in a nonjudgemental environment.
Are you or your child having difficulties? I provide psychotherapy that addresses numerous concerns facing children, adults, families. I specialize in trauma, adoption, depression and anxiety, adjusting to transitions, spirituality, and mindfulness. I can provide the safety, support, and encouragement you or your child needs in a nonjudgemental environment.
(248) 419-4901 View (248) 419-4901
Photo of Margaret L Hunter, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Michigan
Margaret L Hunter
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, MA, LLP, OTRL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
Couples, children, adults who may have experienced challenges in the areas of health issues, loss, adoption and blended families.
Overwhelmed, confused, anxiety, frustration, stuck or numb? All relationships (marriage, partners, parenting, work) can create these feelings. Positive changes can happen with a caring and skilled professional. I work with adults and couples in issues of loss, children/adolescence, life changes, blended families, parenting, using a variety of helpful methods. I specialize in a holistic approach including cognitive therapy, DBT, marital/vocational/school issues, assertiveness, relationship support, parenting strategies, behavioral and insight based in a supportive and caring style. I have been a therapist and an educator and I have life experience that connects me with my clients.
Couples, children, adults who may have experienced challenges in the areas of health issues, loss, adoption and blended families.
Overwhelmed, confused, anxiety, frustration, stuck or numb? All relationships (marriage, partners, parenting, work) can create these feelings. Positive changes can happen with a caring and skilled professional. I work with adults and couples in issues of loss, children/adolescence, life changes, blended families, parenting, using a variety of helpful methods. I specialize in a holistic approach including cognitive therapy, DBT, marital/vocational/school issues, assertiveness, relationship support, parenting strategies, behavioral and insight based in a supportive and caring style. I have been a therapist and an educator and I have life experience that connects me with my clients.
(269) 421-0017 View (269) 421-0017
Photo of Christine Carrothers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan
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
Photo of Carol Harvey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
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 Kera Sanford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Kera Sanford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling Heights, MI 48314  (Online Only)
I have experience with adoption/attachment, to sexual trauma, to depression/anxiety, and/or substance abuse. I am LGBTQ+ affirming, knowledgeable about polyamorous relationships, as well as kink friendly. Clients who are ready to make a change in their lives or their way of thinking will find the most success working with me. Change is scary but if the way you've been isn't serving you then let's create a new picture of it the way you want it to be. Change might be scary but the only thing scarier is staying unhappy.
I have experience with adoption/attachment, to sexual trauma, to depression/anxiety, and/or substance abuse. I am LGBTQ+ affirming, knowledgeable about polyamorous relationships, as well as kink friendly. Clients who are ready to make a change in their lives or their way of thinking will find the most success working with me. Change is scary but if the way you've been isn't serving you then let's create a new picture of it the way you want it to be. Change might be scary but the only thing scarier is staying unhappy.
(248) 556-3444 View (248) 556-3444
Photo of Katie Bozek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Michigan
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 Samantha Slack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Samantha Slack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Fenton, MI 48430
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, sensory deficits, grief and loss, attachment concerns, and adoption and foster care related challenges.
Is your child having behavioral or emotional issues? Have you or your child experienced trauma? I am committed to helping children, adolescents and families through these challenges through evidence based, effective quality services. I work with clients of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or who have experienced trauma.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD/ADD, sensory deficits, grief and loss, attachment concerns, and adoption and foster care related challenges.
Is your child having behavioral or emotional issues? Have you or your child experienced trauma? I am committed to helping children, adolescents and families through these challenges through evidence based, effective quality services. I work with clients of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or who have experienced trauma.
(906) 586-4131 View (906) 586-4131
Photo of Mamie Routhier - - Tava, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Mamie Routhier - - Tava
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 Amy Zauel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Amy Zauel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, MI 48094  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with children, teens, adults and families while specializing in infertility, pregnancy counseling, adoption issues, parent training, anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges.
It would be hard to argue that our lives haven't been a lot more complicated over the last few years. Whether you are a child or teen dealing with peer pressure or the stressors at school, a stay at home parent trying to manage everyones busy schedules, a working professional balancing family life and the stress a job can bring, a single or divorced parent struggling to get through each day, a young adult looking for direction in life, or part of a family trying to raise your kids in this increasingly complex world, I have extensive experience in all of these areas. I am committed to helping you work through these challenges.
I enjoy working with children, teens, adults and families while specializing in infertility, pregnancy counseling, adoption issues, parent training, anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges.
It would be hard to argue that our lives haven't been a lot more complicated over the last few years. Whether you are a child or teen dealing with peer pressure or the stressors at school, a stay at home parent trying to manage everyones busy schedules, a working professional balancing family life and the stress a job can bring, a single or divorced parent struggling to get through each day, a young adult looking for direction in life, or part of a family trying to raise your kids in this increasingly complex world, I have extensive experience in all of these areas. I am committed to helping you work through these challenges.
(586) 789-9367 View (586) 789-9367
Photo of Tamara Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Tamara Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49509
Waitlist for new clients
As a parent of bi-racial children I am passionate in helping multi-ethnic and interracial families, as well as those exploring the process towards foster care and adoption.
If life has become chaotic and overwhelming, or maybe you feel isolated with anxiety, stress, depression or grief, I’m available to help you sort through these challenges. Many struggle with parenting burnout, chronic illness, abuse, family dynamics, employment, transitions and relationships. As a licensed clinical social worker with over 20yrs of professional experience I've had the privilege to work with adults, kids and families, seeking emotional support and healing. Through the scope of a multicultural background, I offer a therapeutic approach emphasized by inclusion, awareness, compassion, advocacy, patience and cooperation.
As a parent of bi-racial children I am passionate in helping multi-ethnic and interracial families, as well as those exploring the process towards foster care and adoption.
If life has become chaotic and overwhelming, or maybe you feel isolated with anxiety, stress, depression or grief, I’m available to help you sort through these challenges. Many struggle with parenting burnout, chronic illness, abuse, family dynamics, employment, transitions and relationships. As a licensed clinical social worker with over 20yrs of professional experience I've had the privilege to work with adults, kids and families, seeking emotional support and healing. Through the scope of a multicultural background, I offer a therapeutic approach emphasized by inclusion, awareness, compassion, advocacy, patience and cooperation.
(833) 600-0929 View (833) 600-0929
Photo of Natasha Rietveld, LMSW, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
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 Maureen Fabiano, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Michigan
Maureen Fabiano
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
East Lansing, MI 48823
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in a few areas including anxiety, depression, relationships including adjustment to new relationships & divorce recovery, adoption, school and work problems, substance abuse, legal situations, trauma, chronic pain, and end of life decisions & difficulty.
I would like the opportunity to join with you while you are facing challenging times, so you can have more of the life you want with less emotional discomfort and distress. I will provide a safe, nonjudgmental professional relationship. I will carefully listen, provide knowledgeable feedback, and collaboratively work with you toward your desired goal or goals. I have many years of therapy experience. I primarily work with individuals and some couples.
I specialize in a few areas including anxiety, depression, relationships including adjustment to new relationships & divorce recovery, adoption, school and work problems, substance abuse, legal situations, trauma, chronic pain, and end of life decisions & difficulty.
I would like the opportunity to join with you while you are facing challenging times, so you can have more of the life you want with less emotional discomfort and distress. I will provide a safe, nonjudgmental professional relationship. I will carefully listen, provide knowledgeable feedback, and collaboratively work with you toward your desired goal or goals. I have many years of therapy experience. I primarily work with individuals and some couples.
(517) 258-3791 View (517) 258-3791
Photo of Abundance of Hope, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Abundance of Hope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified and trained in Play Therapy, AF-CBT (Alternatives for Families Cognitive Behavior Therapy), TFCBT (Trauma Focused CBT), ADOPTS (Trauma treatment for adoption/foster care), & TBRI (Trust Based Relational Care).
I have a heart for helping people and walking alongside them in their journey of healing. Life can bring unexpected pain and suffering. Often times you can feel lost and confused with no one to turn to. Counseling is a beautiful way to seek help from someone who will guide you through the littlest to most difficult times in your life. Everyone can benefit from talking to someone who is not a family member or friend. Someone who will truly hear your needs and unconditionally support you. I am here for you! Please Call Today!
I am certified and trained in Play Therapy, AF-CBT (Alternatives for Families Cognitive Behavior Therapy), TFCBT (Trauma Focused CBT), ADOPTS (Trauma treatment for adoption/foster care), & TBRI (Trust Based Relational Care).
I have a heart for helping people and walking alongside them in their journey of healing. Life can bring unexpected pain and suffering. Often times you can feel lost and confused with no one to turn to. Counseling is a beautiful way to seek help from someone who will guide you through the littlest to most difficult times in your life. Everyone can benefit from talking to someone who is not a family member or friend. Someone who will truly hear your needs and unconditionally support you. I am here for you! Please Call Today!
(616) 952-2019 View (616) 952-2019
Photo of Ashlynn Lister, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Ashlynn Lister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
The majority of my time in the field has been within the child welfare system, which has allowed me to specialize in trauma treatment, as well as foster care/adoption.
I am Clinical Therapist with over 10 years of experience working primarily with children, teens, and young adults. I use various play techniques and engaging activities to learn about the areas of need a child may have and what kinds of behaviors those needs have impacted. I am happy to work with parents who might be needing guidance or feedback regarding their children's behaviors or mental health needs as well. In addition to working with children, I also see some adolescents and young adults struggling with life changes and other mental health needs.
The majority of my time in the field has been within the child welfare system, which has allowed me to specialize in trauma treatment, as well as foster care/adoption.
I am Clinical Therapist with over 10 years of experience working primarily with children, teens, and young adults. I use various play techniques and engaging activities to learn about the areas of need a child may have and what kinds of behaviors those needs have impacted. I am happy to work with parents who might be needing guidance or feedback regarding their children's behaviors or mental health needs as well. In addition to working with children, I also see some adolescents and young adults struggling with life changes and other mental health needs.
(616) 585-0593 View (616) 585-0593
Photo of Robyn Heiler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan
Robyn Heiler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring Lake, MI 49456
Waitlist for new clients
Special Interests: * Couples * Family Counseling * Infertility * Women's Issues * Behavioral issues in children * Mood and Anxiety Issues * Adjustment issues * Lifespan Adjustment * Adoption/foster care * Faith Based Counseling (upon request) *Cancer Support.
Life is hard. No one is immune to stress, fluctuating emotions, and various forms of challenges throughout their life. Taking the first step always takes bravery! You are not alone. We would aim to create a partnership wherein we would work to meet your personal goals by discovering and utilizing your strengths, engaging in problem solving, and implementing new strategies for change and growth. I would provide a safe, nonjudgmental, caring environment in which you could gain the comfort you need to grow in self-awareness and develop positive coping skills. I am trained in the state of MI to provide Clinical Supervision to LLPC's.
Special Interests: * Couples * Family Counseling * Infertility * Women's Issues * Behavioral issues in children * Mood and Anxiety Issues * Adjustment issues * Lifespan Adjustment * Adoption/foster care * Faith Based Counseling (upon request) *Cancer Support.
Life is hard. No one is immune to stress, fluctuating emotions, and various forms of challenges throughout their life. Taking the first step always takes bravery! You are not alone. We would aim to create a partnership wherein we would work to meet your personal goals by discovering and utilizing your strengths, engaging in problem solving, and implementing new strategies for change and growth. I would provide a safe, nonjudgmental, caring environment in which you could gain the comfort you need to grow in self-awareness and develop positive coping skills. I am trained in the state of MI to provide Clinical Supervision to LLPC's.
(616) 236-5219 View (616) 236-5219
Photo of Jeffrey C Loucks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Jeffrey C Loucks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
I have degrees in Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Social Work with many years of experience working in Family Court, Foster Care & Adoption, and Refugee Services.
Sometimes life can be challenging, to the point that you might feel overwhelmed with everything that is occurring and finding someone to talk to can be difficult at best. I use Integrative psychotherapy techniques in my work with adolescents, adults, & couples which allows me to consider the individual characteristics, preferences, needs, abilities, spiritual beliefs, & motivation level of each individual client and presenting concern. By combining elements drawn from different schools of psychological theory & research I aim to be more flexible & inclusive, making therapy something to look forward to.
I have degrees in Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Social Work with many years of experience working in Family Court, Foster Care & Adoption, and Refugee Services.
Sometimes life can be challenging, to the point that you might feel overwhelmed with everything that is occurring and finding someone to talk to can be difficult at best. I use Integrative psychotherapy techniques in my work with adolescents, adults, & couples which allows me to consider the individual characteristics, preferences, needs, abilities, spiritual beliefs, & motivation level of each individual client and presenting concern. By combining elements drawn from different schools of psychological theory & research I aim to be more flexible & inclusive, making therapy something to look forward to.
(517) 826-1162 View (517) 826-1162
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.