Photo of Dallas Gipson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Dallas Gipson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
As an adopted person, I am passionate about working with individuals impacted by adoption/attachment issues to improve relationships and better know themselves.
Choosing a therapist is sometimes the most overwhelming part of getting help! Relationship is very important to the process, and I am happy to schedule a free phone consultation to discuss your goals for therapy and find out if we are a good match. I believe in an individualized approach that will help you get out of therapy what YOU want to achieve.
As an adopted person, I am passionate about working with individuals impacted by adoption/attachment issues to improve relationships and better know themselves.
Choosing a therapist is sometimes the most overwhelming part of getting help! Relationship is very important to the process, and I am happy to schedule a free phone consultation to discuss your goals for therapy and find out if we are a good match. I believe in an individualized approach that will help you get out of therapy what YOU want to achieve.
(816) 227-6035 View (816) 227-6035
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 Juliana Varela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Juliana Varela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
People seek therapy for variety of reasons, ranging from difficulties with a specific life event or a general pursuit for greater purpose and connectedness. Psychotherapy offers an arena for self exploration unlike any other and can prove to be a profoundly moving experience. I work with individuals affected by trauma, difficulties in relationships, depression/post-partum depression, infertility, adoption, parenting, struggles in cultural adaptation and immigration, identity, self-esteem, sexuality, etc. Often I find that the most meaningful change comes from those who are open and willing to engage in the journey. The change you seek comes from you and will be our guiding force.
People seek therapy for variety of reasons, ranging from difficulties with a specific life event or a general pursuit for greater purpose and connectedness. Psychotherapy offers an arena for self exploration unlike any other and can prove to be a profoundly moving experience. I work with individuals affected by trauma, difficulties in relationships, depression/post-partum depression, infertility, adoption, parenting, struggles in cultural adaptation and immigration, identity, self-esteem, sexuality, etc. Often I find that the most meaningful change comes from those who are open and willing to engage in the journey. The change you seek comes from you and will be our guiding force.
(314) 591-5187 View (314) 591-5187
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 Melissa T Scolaro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Melissa T Scolaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
(314) 828-1020 View (314) 828-1020
Photo of Chester Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Chester Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
With over 30 years in practice I have experience working with people of all ages with a range of concerns. People come to me to learn more about themselves and the source of their symptoms. It is through better understanding that we are able to heal and grow. My work with children/adolescents includes those dealing anxiety, adoption issues, depression, family issues, and behavioral problems. My work with adults includes those challenged with anxiety, depression, loss/grief, and relationship issues, and chronic medical conditions.
With over 30 years in practice I have experience working with people of all ages with a range of concerns. People come to me to learn more about themselves and the source of their symptoms. It is through better understanding that we are able to heal and grow. My work with children/adolescents includes those dealing anxiety, adoption issues, depression, family issues, and behavioral problems. My work with adults includes those challenged with anxiety, depression, loss/grief, and relationship issues, and chronic medical conditions.
(314) 207-8599 View (314) 207-8599
Photo of Hawthorne Counseling Llc Susan Andree, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Hawthorne Counseling Llc Susan Andree
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064
They have specialized experience with children, adoption, couples counseling, individuals with anxiety, depression, peer relationships, ADHD and many others.
There are times when life throws experiences your way that require extra support and care. Let the counselors here at Hawthorne Counseling help you, your children or the whole family navigate these challenging times. Let us help breakdown roadblocks that are keeping you from having fulfilling and loving relationships. We work with people who experience anxiety, depression, behavior issues, trauma, grief & loss, divorce, abandonment, and attachment & adjustment challenges, and ADHD. Sometimes finances are a barrier to getting the support you need. Give us a call and we can discuss some options.
They have specialized experience with children, adoption, couples counseling, individuals with anxiety, depression, peer relationships, ADHD and many others.
There are times when life throws experiences your way that require extra support and care. Let the counselors here at Hawthorne Counseling help you, your children or the whole family navigate these challenging times. Let us help breakdown roadblocks that are keeping you from having fulfilling and loving relationships. We work with people who experience anxiety, depression, behavior issues, trauma, grief & loss, divorce, abandonment, and attachment & adjustment challenges, and ADHD. Sometimes finances are a barrier to getting the support you need. Give us a call and we can discuss some options.
(816) 203-1490 View (816) 203-1490
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 Jen Durham Austin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Jen Durham Austin, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I offer short-term & long-term therapy focusing on depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, LGBT and gender identity exploration, adoption and parenting issues, PTSD, complex stress and trauma, & substance use. As a clinician, I approach my work from a holistic, trauma-informed lens. An individual's mental health and overall happiness are based on a number of different factors that are unique to that individual. Therapy is a collaborative effort that takes compassion, reflection, & creativity. Therapy is a financial commitment, but it's also an investment in your emotional well-being, relationships, and quality of life.
I offer short-term & long-term therapy focusing on depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, LGBT and gender identity exploration, adoption and parenting issues, PTSD, complex stress and trauma, & substance use. As a clinician, I approach my work from a holistic, trauma-informed lens. An individual's mental health and overall happiness are based on a number of different factors that are unique to that individual. Therapy is a collaborative effort that takes compassion, reflection, & creativity. Therapy is a financial commitment, but it's also an investment in your emotional well-being, relationships, and quality of life.
(314) 370-2794 View (314) 370-2794
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 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 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 Vanessa Wray Knight, Counselor in Missouri
Vanessa Wray Knight
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
3 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 Michelle M Phillips, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Michelle M Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ozark, MO 65721
I have experienced the joys and pains of life including the adoption journey, addiction in a family member, divorce, and just wondering if I have done life right.
My ideal client is one who is aware that they need to do something different but aren't quite sure what the next step is. This could be a life transition from adolescence to adulthood, or a couple who struggles with communication. It could be more intense like a couple who is in the middle of despair or broken trust, or an individual or child who has experienced something traumatic that has changed their whole world. All these individuals are looking for ways to regain their life and become who they believe themselves to be.
I have experienced the joys and pains of life including the adoption journey, addiction in a family member, divorce, and just wondering if I have done life right.
My ideal client is one who is aware that they need to do something different but aren't quite sure what the next step is. This could be a life transition from adolescence to adulthood, or a couple who struggles with communication. It could be more intense like a couple who is in the middle of despair or broken trust, or an individual or child who has experienced something traumatic that has changed their whole world. All these individuals are looking for ways to regain their life and become who they believe themselves to be.
(417) 551-6138 x2 View (417) 551-6138 x2
Photo of Aya B Kawasaki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Aya B Kawasaki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LLM
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
(314) 932-2368 View (314) 932-2368
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 Laurie Pisciotta, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Laurie Pisciotta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64152
CHILDREN/TEENS - loss, trauma, adoption, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, school and peer challenges.
Life takes some twists and turns that we just aren't prepared for. From major life changes to struggling with that relentless fear that gets in the way of something you desire in your life. I am here to help you navigate through the confusion and overwhelm to find the answers you need. Together through enhancing awareness, curiosity, patience and self compassion, we will capitalize on your strengths and resources so you can heal and work towards the change you desire.
CHILDREN/TEENS - loss, trauma, adoption, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, school and peer challenges.
Life takes some twists and turns that we just aren't prepared for. From major life changes to struggling with that relentless fear that gets in the way of something you desire in your life. I am here to help you navigate through the confusion and overwhelm to find the answers you need. Together through enhancing awareness, curiosity, patience and self compassion, we will capitalize on your strengths and resources so you can heal and work towards the change you desire.
(816) 327-1356 View (816) 327-1356
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 Eileen Odette Long, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Eileen Odette Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203
As a licensed clinical social worker I provide therapy and partner with individuals and families helping them achieve their determined goals. I specialize in assisting clients who have experienced trauma, grief, addictions, anxiety, depression, crisis pregnancy, infertility, and adoption. From a 'strengths-based perspective', I support clients through a variety of treatment modalities to gain insight into how their thoughts and emotions impact behavior and how the past can affect the present and determine the future.
As a licensed clinical social worker I provide therapy and partner with individuals and families helping them achieve their determined goals. I specialize in assisting clients who have experienced trauma, grief, addictions, anxiety, depression, crisis pregnancy, infertility, and adoption. From a 'strengths-based perspective', I support clients through a variety of treatment modalities to gain insight into how their thoughts and emotions impact behavior and how the past can affect the present and determine the future.
(573) 267-4152 View (573) 267-4152
Photo of Peggy Bissing LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Peggy Bissing LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Ava, MO 65608
My specialty is assisting adult and teen survivors of trauma. I have an extensive history working in the public school setting with special needs children and at-risk youth. Additionally, I have experience in the criminal justice system with first responders, crime victims and recovering addicts. My services include post adoption therapeutic assistance for foster children, therapeutic guidance for crime victims, first responders, veterans and assistance to those seeking outpatient treatment for addictions. My ultimate goal is to help adults and children live more fulfilling and productive lives.
My specialty is assisting adult and teen survivors of trauma. I have an extensive history working in the public school setting with special needs children and at-risk youth. Additionally, I have experience in the criminal justice system with first responders, crime victims and recovering addicts. My services include post adoption therapeutic assistance for foster children, therapeutic guidance for crime victims, first responders, veterans and assistance to those seeking outpatient treatment for addictions. My ultimate goal is to help adults and children live more fulfilling and productive lives.
(210) 920-7900 View (210) 920-7900
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.