Photo of Laura Winters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Laura Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, MO 63017
I also specialize in areas related to adoption as an adoption counselor, consultant, search specialist, or mediator.
When I first walked into a therapist's office as a client, I was a ball of knotted yarn, twisted with emotion, anxiety, and confusion. I needed something...relief; to make sense of things once again; to understand myself; to identify and solve a problem. I needed someone to help me sort it out. I want to help you unknot that ball of yarn. I want my clients to feel accepted and understood, recognizing their inherent value and strength, through our interactions and exploration of themselves. You are the expert on you. I am the witness, reflection, and guide. I would be honored to help you work through whatever it is you need.
I also specialize in areas related to adoption as an adoption counselor, consultant, search specialist, or mediator.
When I first walked into a therapist's office as a client, I was a ball of knotted yarn, twisted with emotion, anxiety, and confusion. I needed something...relief; to make sense of things once again; to understand myself; to identify and solve a problem. I needed someone to help me sort it out. I want to help you unknot that ball of yarn. I want my clients to feel accepted and understood, recognizing their inherent value and strength, through our interactions and exploration of themselves. You are the expert on you. I am the witness, reflection, and guide. I would be honored to help you work through whatever it is you need.
(314) 501-9283 View (314) 501-9283
Photo of Cecily Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Cecily Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65807
Some of the main issues that I have helped with are: sense of self, anxiety, depression, adoption, relationships, parent-child relationships, marriage, life transitions, etc.
Since 2012 I have been working with adolescents and young adults navigating various different struggles of their life. Together, with their families (when appropriate) we work to develop a plan and a path towards health and healing. It isn't always easy, in fact it’s often counterintuitive and confusing. Healing isn't linear, but what I can offer is a chance to communicate better, connect, and return your home to a peaceful place. Whether you are struggling with relationships, yourself, school or work, I am ready to help you navigate whatever it is that is going on in your mind, and move you towards a more meaningful life.
Some of the main issues that I have helped with are: sense of self, anxiety, depression, adoption, relationships, parent-child relationships, marriage, life transitions, etc.
Since 2012 I have been working with adolescents and young adults navigating various different struggles of their life. Together, with their families (when appropriate) we work to develop a plan and a path towards health and healing. It isn't always easy, in fact it’s often counterintuitive and confusing. Healing isn't linear, but what I can offer is a chance to communicate better, connect, and return your home to a peaceful place. Whether you are struggling with relationships, yourself, school or work, I am ready to help you navigate whatever it is that is going on in your mind, and move you towards a more meaningful life.
(417) 739-0674 View (417) 739-0674
Photo of Jessica Gunkel Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Jessica Gunkel Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064
My family is multiracial, formed partially through adoption.
Life can be full of joy but can also be lonely and deeply painful. Your personal life may feel unbalanced or your relationships seem stuck. I think it is very courageous to seek health and healing from hurt, internal strife or relational trauma. Relationships cause tremendous pain but can also be the source of magnificent healing. Oftentimes a comfortable, inviting space where you can safely explore who you are at your core is just what you need to begin flourishing and thriving. That same space can be precisely the respite your relationships need.
My family is multiracial, formed partially through adoption.
Life can be full of joy but can also be lonely and deeply painful. Your personal life may feel unbalanced or your relationships seem stuck. I think it is very courageous to seek health and healing from hurt, internal strife or relational trauma. Relationships cause tremendous pain but can also be the source of magnificent healing. Oftentimes a comfortable, inviting space where you can safely explore who you are at your core is just what you need to begin flourishing and thriving. That same space can be precisely the respite your relationships need.
(913) 318-5264 View (913) 318-5264
Photo of Audra Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Audra Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
I have special interest in infertility, adoption, and autism/Asperger’s Syndrome.
My name is Audra Bell and I am a Psychotherapist certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with clients throughout Missouri via telehealth. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, or other life stressors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Theory. I find it most helpful to start where the client feels comfortable and work right away towards helping clients find progress and relief quickly.
I have special interest in infertility, adoption, and autism/Asperger’s Syndrome.
My name is Audra Bell and I am a Psychotherapist certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with clients throughout Missouri via telehealth. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, or other life stressors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Theory. I find it most helpful to start where the client feels comfortable and work right away towards helping clients find progress and relief quickly.
(636) 303-1667 View (636) 303-1667
Photo of Debra H Zand, Psychologist in Missouri
Debra H Zand
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127
Dr. Debra Zand, founder and co-owner of Midwest Psychological Services LLC, is a clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience working with children and their families. She has particular expertise in conducting comprehensive psychological testing, as well as individual and family therapies. Dr. Zand uses an integrative, playful approach to conducting therapy She routinely see families to address: adoption issues, attachment, developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, parent-child relationship struggles, self-regulation difficulties, communication struggles, divorce, and remarriage.
Dr. Debra Zand, founder and co-owner of Midwest Psychological Services LLC, is a clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience working with children and their families. She has particular expertise in conducting comprehensive psychological testing, as well as individual and family therapies. Dr. Zand uses an integrative, playful approach to conducting therapy She routinely see families to address: adoption issues, attachment, developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, parent-child relationship struggles, self-regulation difficulties, communication struggles, divorce, and remarriage.
(314) 858-8067 View (314) 858-8067
Photo of Jacey L. Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jacey L. Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
My history of experience includes adoption, foster care, attachment, abuse, neglect, and maladaptive behaviors.
I know what it's like to feel broken, hopeless, and alone. I also know how it feels to come out of a season like that. One of my greatest passions is to walk alongside others facing challenges that they feel unequipped to handle. It takes courage to ask for help, especially with the negative stigma attached to therapy. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to help adults and children find the strength to move forward. Wherever it is that you find yourself, know that you are not meant to go through it alone.
My history of experience includes adoption, foster care, attachment, abuse, neglect, and maladaptive behaviors.
I know what it's like to feel broken, hopeless, and alone. I also know how it feels to come out of a season like that. One of my greatest passions is to walk alongside others facing challenges that they feel unequipped to handle. It takes courage to ask for help, especially with the negative stigma attached to therapy. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to help adults and children find the strength to move forward. Wherever it is that you find yourself, know that you are not meant to go through it alone.
(417) 815-4185 View (417) 815-4185
Photo of J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D., Psychologist in Missouri
J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Extensive experience with children and adolescents experiencing social and emotional problems, including adoption and attachment difficulties.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families from a relational, trauma informed, attachment informed, developmental perspective. Trained in child psychotherapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I work to understand clients within the context of their primary and family relationships. I especially enjoy working with couples and families. I work to identify the emotional and interpersonal obstacles to further growth, and build on the strength and resilience of the individual, couple and family. .I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing the full range of emotional, social and developmental difficulties.
Extensive experience with children and adolescents experiencing social and emotional problems, including adoption and attachment difficulties.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families from a relational, trauma informed, attachment informed, developmental perspective. Trained in child psychotherapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I work to understand clients within the context of their primary and family relationships. I especially enjoy working with couples and families. I work to identify the emotional and interpersonal obstacles to further growth, and build on the strength and resilience of the individual, couple and family. .I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing the full range of emotional, social and developmental difficulties.
(314) 858-5040 View (314) 858-5040
Photo of Anna Segovia Schild, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Anna Segovia Schild
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist with specialized EMDR trainings in addiction, attachment, adoption and non-verbal trauma.
I believe people are more than their diagnosis. Yes, a diagnosis is a tool but it is not the big picture. I come from a place of curiosity and wonder, wanting to know my clients on a deeper level so that I can help them navigate this world. For example, PTSD is a big diagnosis that is thrown around; yet, it doesn't paint the full picture. It doesn't reflect someone's experiences, triggers, how this is impacting their relationships, family history, the strengths they possess etc. Adolescents are my passion however, I also enjoy and work closely with families and adults.
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist with specialized EMDR trainings in addiction, attachment, adoption and non-verbal trauma.
I believe people are more than their diagnosis. Yes, a diagnosis is a tool but it is not the big picture. I come from a place of curiosity and wonder, wanting to know my clients on a deeper level so that I can help them navigate this world. For example, PTSD is a big diagnosis that is thrown around; yet, it doesn't paint the full picture. It doesn't reflect someone's experiences, triggers, how this is impacting their relationships, family history, the strengths they possess etc. Adolescents are my passion however, I also enjoy and work closely with families and adults.
(636) 249-1795 View (636) 249-1795
Photo of Vanessa Wray Knight, Counselor in Missouri
Vanessa Wray Knight
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105
In foster/adoption work, I'm a TBRI Educator and Trainer from the TCU Institute for Child Development and work with families who have adopted locally and from over 25 countries.
Hello! I'm Vanessa, co-owner of Secure Counseling Clinics. I've lived in KC for 20 years with my husband, 4 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 1 bearded dragon, and a flock of backyard chickens! I'm a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in both MO and KS, Nationally Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and KS board-approved clinical supervisor. My heart work is helping humans with complex trauma. Couples, as well as parents and their children, work with me to form secure attachments with each other. I help clients experiencing relationship difficulties and those who experience pain from circumstances or losses.
In foster/adoption work, I'm a TBRI Educator and Trainer from the TCU Institute for Child Development and work with families who have adopted locally and from over 25 countries.
Hello! I'm Vanessa, co-owner of Secure Counseling Clinics. I've lived in KC for 20 years with my husband, 4 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 1 bearded dragon, and a flock of backyard chickens! I'm a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in both MO and KS, Nationally Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and KS board-approved clinical supervisor. My heart work is helping humans with complex trauma. Couples, as well as parents and their children, work with me to form secure attachments with each other. I help clients experiencing relationship difficulties and those who experience pain from circumstances or losses.
(816) 608-8444 View (816) 608-8444
Photo of Barbara Longan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Barbara Longan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Joplin, MO 64804
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to my psychotherapy services, I offer forensically sensitive therapy, extended forensic evaluations, adoption home studies, trauma debriefing, and educational presentations.
Therapy provides a safe place to increase understanding, to learn how to make positive changes, to resolve problems, to heal from painful situations, or to simply feel better. I believe these things occur best when an individual is in a non-judgemental environment where they are treated with dignity and respect. I strive to provide just that to my clients. I want people to feel relaxed and supported when working with me. Life, with all its challenges, is difficult enough. The therapeutic process should be as easy as possible.
In addition to my psychotherapy services, I offer forensically sensitive therapy, extended forensic evaluations, adoption home studies, trauma debriefing, and educational presentations.
Therapy provides a safe place to increase understanding, to learn how to make positive changes, to resolve problems, to heal from painful situations, or to simply feel better. I believe these things occur best when an individual is in a non-judgemental environment where they are treated with dignity and respect. I strive to provide just that to my clients. I want people to feel relaxed and supported when working with me. Life, with all its challenges, is difficult enough. The therapeutic process should be as easy as possible.
(417) 310-1982 View (417) 310-1982
Photo of Connected Families Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Connected Families Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kearney, MO 64060
Our specialties include anxiety, depression, substance use, foster/adoption, self-esteem, relationships, communication, and grief.
At Connected Families Counseling, we prioritize fostering meaningful connections and providing tailored support for individuals seeking guidance. Our practice offers compassionate counseling in a welcoming environment, where you can feel heard and supported on your path to personal growth. With a focus on empathy and understanding, we are dedicated to delivering quality care that empowers you to overcome life's challenges and thrive. Join us as we journey together towards a happier, more fulfilling life.
Our specialties include anxiety, depression, substance use, foster/adoption, self-esteem, relationships, communication, and grief.
At Connected Families Counseling, we prioritize fostering meaningful connections and providing tailored support for individuals seeking guidance. Our practice offers compassionate counseling in a welcoming environment, where you can feel heard and supported on your path to personal growth. With a focus on empathy and understanding, we are dedicated to delivering quality care that empowers you to overcome life's challenges and thrive. Join us as we journey together towards a happier, more fulfilling life.
(816) 430-2801 View (816) 430-2801
Photo of Desley Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Desley Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, MO 63044
I am extremely passionate about helping those in need and feel it is an honor to be a part of someone's journey through therapy. I truly enjoy supporting others in finding and becoming the very best version of themselves. I think it is important that my clients feel heard and understood and I strive to create a therapeutic environment where my clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. I have spent the majority of my career working with children, youth, adults, and families in various capacities. I have a strong background in trauma, family dynamics, child development, foster care, adoption, and mental health of all ages.
I am extremely passionate about helping those in need and feel it is an honor to be a part of someone's journey through therapy. I truly enjoy supporting others in finding and becoming the very best version of themselves. I think it is important that my clients feel heard and understood and I strive to create a therapeutic environment where my clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. I have spent the majority of my career working with children, youth, adults, and families in various capacities. I have a strong background in trauma, family dynamics, child development, foster care, adoption, and mental health of all ages.
(314) 907-3710 View (314) 907-3710
Photo of Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
We have experience helping with: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss, Behavioral Problems, Separation & Divorce, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Family Disruption and Foster Care/Adoption, Self-Harm, and much more.
We know how hard it is to ask for help. It is easy to become overwhelmed by struggles. Life can seem unmanageable. Lutheran Family & Children's Services of Missouri (LFCS) can help you find hope and discover solutions. LFCS provides outpatient therapy throughout the state in one of our convenient locations and provides telehealth through a virtual platform. LFCS has offices in: St. Louis (Olivette), St. Peters, Union, Columbia, Cape Girardeau, and satellite offices throughout the Greater St. Louis Region. Coming soon in Kansas City, Springfield, and Joplin!
We have experience helping with: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss, Behavioral Problems, Separation & Divorce, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Family Disruption and Foster Care/Adoption, Self-Harm, and much more.
We know how hard it is to ask for help. It is easy to become overwhelmed by struggles. Life can seem unmanageable. Lutheran Family & Children's Services of Missouri (LFCS) can help you find hope and discover solutions. LFCS provides outpatient therapy throughout the state in one of our convenient locations and provides telehealth through a virtual platform. LFCS has offices in: St. Louis (Olivette), St. Peters, Union, Columbia, Cape Girardeau, and satellite offices throughout the Greater St. Louis Region. Coming soon in Kansas City, Springfield, and Joplin!
(314) 819-9852 View (314) 819-9852
Photo of Janice Mills, Counselor in Missouri
Janice Mills
Counselor, NCC, LPC, CRAADC, CAMS-1, SQP-R
Verified Verified
Troy, MO 63379
We all can feel trapped, paralyzed or stuck from time to time. Whether it's a relationship, school, career, adoption, challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, or substance use, we can find ourselves repeating the same patterns. I work with individuals, families and groups to help them understand the patterns of their lives and how to move beyond the challenges. My focus is in building families and changing lives. I believe that the major factor in successful therapy is developing a relationship that feels comfortable and safe. Trust is essential and I emphasize the importance of openness and cooperation.
We all can feel trapped, paralyzed or stuck from time to time. Whether it's a relationship, school, career, adoption, challenges with trauma, depression, anxiety, or substance use, we can find ourselves repeating the same patterns. I work with individuals, families and groups to help them understand the patterns of their lives and how to move beyond the challenges. My focus is in building families and changing lives. I believe that the major factor in successful therapy is developing a relationship that feels comfortable and safe. Trust is essential and I emphasize the importance of openness and cooperation.
(636) 306-3871 View (636) 306-3871
Photo of Nate Rayburn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Nate Rayburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grain Valley, MO 64029
I specialize in working with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Family Issues, Marital Issues, Autism, Adoption Issues, Substance Dependence Disorders, and Sex Addiction.
Hello! My name is Nate Rayburn and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Grain Valley Missouri. I have been practicing counseling in Missouri for the past eight years and look forward to being able to help you with any number of issues you may be battling.
I specialize in working with Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Family Issues, Marital Issues, Autism, Adoption Issues, Substance Dependence Disorders, and Sex Addiction.
Hello! My name is Nate Rayburn and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Grain Valley Missouri. I have been practicing counseling in Missouri for the past eight years and look forward to being able to help you with any number of issues you may be battling.
(816) 443-5279 View (816) 443-5279
Photo of Shannon L Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Shannon L Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Osage Beach, MO 65065
Some typical focus areas are anxiety, depression, stress, grief, anger, relationship issues, ruptured attachment, adoption and adjustment, developmental and adult trauma, and substance abuse.
Shannon became a therapist to help people navigate their complex world, improve their mental health, and experience joy-filled lives. She utilizes clinically tested and evidence-based interventions and believes in a holistic approach to mental health and that all areas of one’s life are interconnected. Research shows that unhealthy relationships and traumatic events can cause emotional, relational, and physical stress. In contrast, healthy relationships, boundaries, and emotional healing in therapy can improve your overall well-being and life satisfaction.
Some typical focus areas are anxiety, depression, stress, grief, anger, relationship issues, ruptured attachment, adoption and adjustment, developmental and adult trauma, and substance abuse.
Shannon became a therapist to help people navigate their complex world, improve their mental health, and experience joy-filled lives. She utilizes clinically tested and evidence-based interventions and believes in a holistic approach to mental health and that all areas of one’s life are interconnected. Research shows that unhealthy relationships and traumatic events can cause emotional, relational, and physical stress. In contrast, healthy relationships, boundaries, and emotional healing in therapy can improve your overall well-being and life satisfaction.
(417) 888-3012 View (417) 888-3012
Photo of Danielle K. Carver, L.L.C., Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Danielle K. Carver, L.L.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
I specialize in working with adoption issues and understand the sensitivity and dynamics associated with blended families and foster care involvement.
Life becomes too difficult; you need an objective someone to talk to, listen to your story, and provide encouragement that you can not only survive what you are going through, but work to find purpose and meaning in the midst of the storm. The most important aspect of therapy is the Client-Therapist relationship. Once it is determined that the Client is comfortable with me, then it is a collaborative effort to help facilitate the healing process through the life changes the Client faces. My job is to provide a safe place for change and growth to happen.
I specialize in working with adoption issues and understand the sensitivity and dynamics associated with blended families and foster care involvement.
Life becomes too difficult; you need an objective someone to talk to, listen to your story, and provide encouragement that you can not only survive what you are going through, but work to find purpose and meaning in the midst of the storm. The most important aspect of therapy is the Client-Therapist relationship. Once it is determined that the Client is comfortable with me, then it is a collaborative effort to help facilitate the healing process through the life changes the Client faces. My job is to provide a safe place for change and growth to happen.
(417) 233-1045 View (417) 233-1045
Photo of Pamela Wine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Pamela Wine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA/NCC, LPC, RPT, EdS, PCIT
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Play is the place where children’s minds, hearts, and souls meet. Through Play Therapy, children are able to heal from distressing events such as, but not limited to, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, depression, adoption, foster care and attachment issues; and to improve in myriad areas such as impulse control, emotional regulation, ADHD, OCD, and ODD. As your child’s therapist, my goal is to enable children to heal, so that they are empowered to “rise and shine” to their highest potential.
Play is the place where children’s minds, hearts, and souls meet. Through Play Therapy, children are able to heal from distressing events such as, but not limited to, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, depression, adoption, foster care and attachment issues; and to improve in myriad areas such as impulse control, emotional regulation, ADHD, OCD, and ODD. As your child’s therapist, my goal is to enable children to heal, so that they are empowered to “rise and shine” to their highest potential.
(816) 623-1814 View (816) 623-1814
Photo of Glenda Josephine Day, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Glenda Josephine Day
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064
My areas of specialty include adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief/loss issues by utilizing therapeutic techniques that are customized for every client and circumstance.
Are you feeling stuck and don’t know what to do or where to go? Have all your old ways of coping stopped working? We all need support and guidance along our journey. Sometimes we need more than what our family and friends can provide. Everyone has the capacity to live a life full of joy, happiness and wholeness. When circumstances happen in your life that make this difficult to live, you may need some extra help. Together, you and I can find the right path to create the life you are meant to live.
My areas of specialty include adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma and grief/loss issues by utilizing therapeutic techniques that are customized for every client and circumstance.
Are you feeling stuck and don’t know what to do or where to go? Have all your old ways of coping stopped working? We all need support and guidance along our journey. Sometimes we need more than what our family and friends can provide. Everyone has the capacity to live a life full of joy, happiness and wholeness. When circumstances happen in your life that make this difficult to live, you may need some extra help. Together, you and I can find the right path to create the life you are meant to live.
(720) 782-6476 View (720) 782-6476
Photo of Shirley Crenshaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Shirley Crenshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
My speciality is treating children with attachment disturbances. Most of the children I see have been adopted, but many have had other medical and other relationship traumas that have contributed to their current acting out or anxiety issues. Many of the children I see have been previously diagnosed as having Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, and Bi-Polar Disorders. I also see adults who have experienced childhood trauma.
My speciality is treating children with attachment disturbances. Most of the children I see have been adopted, but many have had other medical and other relationship traumas that have contributed to their current acting out or anxiety issues. Many of the children I see have been previously diagnosed as having Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, and Bi-Polar Disorders. I also see adults who have experienced childhood trauma.
(314) 551-9323 View (314) 551-9323

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.