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 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 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 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 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 Tina Villalobos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Tina Villalobos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63124
I specialize in working with teens, adults, and older adults who are facing challenges related to eating disorders, poor relationships with food and exercise, and negative body image. I often work with people referred by their weight management physicians when mental health issues are getting in the way of their medical treatment. In addition to these specialties, I have extensive experience working with addiction, trauma, abuse, neglect, self-harm, adoption, and family conflict. I also frequently work with teens navigating sexuality and gender identity issues, anxiety, depression, and challenges with peers and family.
I specialize in working with teens, adults, and older adults who are facing challenges related to eating disorders, poor relationships with food and exercise, and negative body image. I often work with people referred by their weight management physicians when mental health issues are getting in the way of their medical treatment. In addition to these specialties, I have extensive experience working with addiction, trauma, abuse, neglect, self-harm, adoption, and family conflict. I also frequently work with teens navigating sexuality and gender identity issues, anxiety, depression, and challenges with peers and family.
(314) 328-5097 View (314) 328-5097
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 Michael Deal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Michael Deal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
When working with individuals, I aim to help them through a collaborative process to understand the underlying issues that are causing them to not live up to their potential. The model which I employ assumes that many of our struggles are connected to conflicts within us of which we are not completely aware. I feel that therapy is most effective when the entire person's personality and history are considered instead of just focusing on current problematic behaviors. My work focuses on recognizing long standing relationship patterns that are troublesome as well as developing a more emotionally stable and adaptive personality.
When working with individuals, I aim to help them through a collaborative process to understand the underlying issues that are causing them to not live up to their potential. The model which I employ assumes that many of our struggles are connected to conflicts within us of which we are not completely aware. I feel that therapy is most effective when the entire person's personality and history are considered instead of just focusing on current problematic behaviors. My work focuses on recognizing long standing relationship patterns that are troublesome as well as developing a more emotionally stable and adaptive personality.
(314) 561-7106 View (314) 561-7106
Photo of Ari Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Ari Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
Accepting New Patients --- Taking the step to begin therapy is a brave choice. I understand that it frequently comes at a time of vulnerability when emotional pain or life problems are intense. As a therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to begin understanding life circumstances that are creating concerns for you. I approach therapy as a collaborative process and understand the importance of trust and empathy in the therapeutic relationship. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I work with people of all ages.
Accepting New Patients --- Taking the step to begin therapy is a brave choice. I understand that it frequently comes at a time of vulnerability when emotional pain or life problems are intense. As a therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to begin understanding life circumstances that are creating concerns for you. I approach therapy as a collaborative process and understand the importance of trust and empathy in the therapeutic relationship. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and I work with people of all ages.
(314) 760-8765 View (314) 760-8765
Photo of Molly Berra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Molly Berra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arnold, MO 63010
I am a licensed professional counselor providing individual therapy services for adults, adolescents and children. I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach to counseling. I believe clients are the experts on themselves, and through the safety of the counseling experience, are able to gain insight into their true emotions and discover their own solutions and way forward. I believe that our too-busy, over-connected societal norms urge people to stifle their feelings and reject vulnerability. With genuine, non-judgmental encouragement and support, I believe clients can not only self-discover but can ultimately self-heal.
I am a licensed professional counselor providing individual therapy services for adults, adolescents and children. I use a person-centered, strengths-based approach to counseling. I believe clients are the experts on themselves, and through the safety of the counseling experience, are able to gain insight into their true emotions and discover their own solutions and way forward. I believe that our too-busy, over-connected societal norms urge people to stifle their feelings and reject vulnerability. With genuine, non-judgmental encouragement and support, I believe clients can not only self-discover but can ultimately self-heal.
View
Photo of Open Arms Wellness Therapy and Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Open Arms Wellness Therapy and Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63144
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each speciality in the greater St. Louis area and we have openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals.
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each speciality in the greater St. Louis area and we have openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals.
(314) 648-8192 View (314) 648-8192
Photo of Anat H Reschke, Psychologist in Missouri
Anat H Reschke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Dr. Reschke is a licensed psychologist who works with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and adjustment. Dr. Reschke uses a flexible individualized approach depending on the client and on the presenting issue. Frequently, she employs a cognitive-behavioral and problem-solving approach to assist her clients in developing coping strategies. Dr. Reschke sees clients for both short term therapy to address specific current difficulties, as well as longer term therapy for those clients who are struggling with life-long difficulties and/or prefer a more insight-oriented approach that explores their family of origin.
Dr. Reschke is a licensed psychologist who works with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and adjustment. Dr. Reschke uses a flexible individualized approach depending on the client and on the presenting issue. Frequently, she employs a cognitive-behavioral and problem-solving approach to assist her clients in developing coping strategies. Dr. Reschke sees clients for both short term therapy to address specific current difficulties, as well as longer term therapy for those clients who are struggling with life-long difficulties and/or prefer a more insight-oriented approach that explores their family of origin.
(314) 881-8587 View (314) 881-8587
Photo of Natalie Mucci, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Natalie Mucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64154  (Online Only)
My name is Natalie Mucci (LMSW) and my passion is being able to meet people where they are and best facilitate each individual attaining their mental health goals. I have over a decade of experience utilizing a variety of therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapies and helping individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma and front line mental health experience during the COVID pandemic.
My name is Natalie Mucci (LMSW) and my passion is being able to meet people where they are and best facilitate each individual attaining their mental health goals. I have over a decade of experience utilizing a variety of therapeutic interventions including cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapies and helping individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma and front line mental health experience during the COVID pandemic.
(816) 323-4628 View (816) 323-4628
Photo of Dipoto Counseling Group, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Dipoto Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gladstone, MO 64118
The counselors at Dipoto Counseling Group are Licensed Counselors or Social Workers in the State of Missouri. Our counselors possess a wide range of experience and were selected to meet the diverse needs of our community. We have 16 counselors in our three offices that are ready to work with you. If you are looking for individual, family or couples counseling, we have someone that can work with you. We also have 7 Provisionally Licensed Counselors and Interns that are working under the supervision of Marc Dipoto LPC. They meet weekly with their supervisor to discuss their cases. This service is offered to at a reduced rate.
The counselors at Dipoto Counseling Group are Licensed Counselors or Social Workers in the State of Missouri. Our counselors possess a wide range of experience and were selected to meet the diverse needs of our community. We have 16 counselors in our three offices that are ready to work with you. If you are looking for individual, family or couples counseling, we have someone that can work with you. We also have 7 Provisionally Licensed Counselors and Interns that are working under the supervision of Marc Dipoto LPC. They meet weekly with their supervisor to discuss their cases. This service is offered to at a reduced rate.
(816) 268-8501 View (816) 268-8501
Photo of KC Counseling Studio, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
KC Counseling Studio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
(816) 623-1011 View (816) 623-1011
Photo of Daylin Rodriguez Cesar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Daylin Rodriguez Cesar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, PhDc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050  (Online Only)
He sido una sicoterapeuta bilingue por 12 años enfocada en tratar trauma y evaluaciones sicológicas para emigración. Les proveo un ambiente confidencial y muy cómodo a mis participantes. Es un gran privilegio guiarlos en su andar de sanidad y paz. Me especializo en sicología infantil, EMDR, y hipnosis clínica. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a parejas, procesos de separación, trauma, niñas/niños, y a la comunidad LGBTQ+. I am a caring bilingual counselor with experience in working with people of races and genders. My mission is to be your companion on this therapeutic journey in a comfortable and confidential environment.
He sido una sicoterapeuta bilingue por 12 años enfocada en tratar trauma y evaluaciones sicológicas para emigración. Les proveo un ambiente confidencial y muy cómodo a mis participantes. Es un gran privilegio guiarlos en su andar de sanidad y paz. Me especializo en sicología infantil, EMDR, y hipnosis clínica. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a parejas, procesos de separación, trauma, niñas/niños, y a la comunidad LGBTQ+. I am a caring bilingual counselor with experience in working with people of races and genders. My mission is to be your companion on this therapeutic journey in a comfortable and confidential environment.
(913) 884-1812 View (913) 884-1812
Photo of Deborah Lucille Kerr, Psychologist in Missouri
Deborah Lucille Kerr
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm Deborah, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, and Neuroscientist. What does this mean to you? That I have knowledge of the brain that allows me to more quickly and effectively address your needs. My research-based approach to therapy integrates science, clinical knowledge, and individual attention to help others gain peace in life. Contact me with your referral questions, screening, and to find out if I am right for you!
Welcome! I'm Deborah, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Neuropsychologist, and Neuroscientist. What does this mean to you? That I have knowledge of the brain that allows me to more quickly and effectively address your needs. My research-based approach to therapy integrates science, clinical knowledge, and individual attention to help others gain peace in life. Contact me with your referral questions, screening, and to find out if I am right for you!
(573) 679-4007 View (573) 679-4007
Photo of Dominique Begnaud, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Dominique Begnaud
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-IL, ATR, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Waitlist for new clients
Life is challenging. So many ebbs and flows. I recognize that and would love to help you on your journey. We can all use a little support from time to time. Relationships can be difficult to manage. Setting (and keeping) boundaries at home, at work, or within relationships is hard work. If you or your child are looking for support with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, domestic violence, abuse or trauma, I'd love to help. I use creative therapy techniques in-person and via tele-health to support you or your child.
Life is challenging. So many ebbs and flows. I recognize that and would love to help you on your journey. We can all use a little support from time to time. Relationships can be difficult to manage. Setting (and keeping) boundaries at home, at work, or within relationships is hard work. If you or your child are looking for support with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, domestic violence, abuse or trauma, I'd love to help. I use creative therapy techniques in-person and via tele-health to support you or your child.
(314) 748-0120 View (314) 748-0120
Photo of Tina Marie Dale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Tina Marie Dale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Your relationship with yourself is reflected in interactions with family, friends, colleagues, professional life and your worldview. How do you seek, expect and provide attunement to yourself and important others? Often unrecognized inter-generational relational themes play a part in the manner of which one seeks connection. Attachment and relational patterns meant to gain closeness can mean one feels known & accepted or invisible & rejected. You can learn to listen to yourself with open-minded curiosity in order to identify your relational style, understanding how it supports or hinders you in life.
Your relationship with yourself is reflected in interactions with family, friends, colleagues, professional life and your worldview. How do you seek, expect and provide attunement to yourself and important others? Often unrecognized inter-generational relational themes play a part in the manner of which one seeks connection. Attachment and relational patterns meant to gain closeness can mean one feels known & accepted or invisible & rejected. You can learn to listen to yourself with open-minded curiosity in order to identify your relational style, understanding how it supports or hinders you in life.
(314) 287-5387 View (314) 287-5387
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.