Adoption Therapists in Portsmouth, NH

Photo of Elliott Kronenfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Elliott Kronenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, MSW, MS, CSTS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03802
I am a certified sex therapist who is licensed in NH, ME, and MA, and specialize in therapies for individuals and couples that are dealing with issues that inhibit future growth and happiness. As the author of Couples by Intention: Creating and Cultivating Relationships That Matter!, specialties include sex/intimacy, infidelity recovery, infertility, Surrogacy/Adoption, life transitions/personal growth, men's issues, and sexual minorities' concerns. My approach is solution focused, varied and includes a strength based perspective. Narrative therapy, CBT and interpersonal methods are often used.
I am a certified sex therapist who is licensed in NH, ME, and MA, and specialize in therapies for individuals and couples that are dealing with issues that inhibit future growth and happiness. As the author of Couples by Intention: Creating and Cultivating Relationships That Matter!, specialties include sex/intimacy, infidelity recovery, infertility, Surrogacy/Adoption, life transitions/personal growth, men's issues, and sexual minorities' concerns. My approach is solution focused, varied and includes a strength based perspective. Narrative therapy, CBT and interpersonal methods are often used.
(603) 239-2119 View (603) 239-2119
Photo of Christine Flaherty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Christine Flaherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Additional certifications in life coaching, memoir writing, and international adoption add rich dimensions to my conversational style and seasoned clinical skills.
Being a therapist is a true privilege. In the relaxed and safe atmosphere of my office , clients feel free to explore their deepest feelings, dreams, and real lifechallenges. Together, in a spirit of honesty,we laugh,we cry and we problem solve. Most of us want things to change, but we often don't want to change anything. To choose trust not fear, we must first explore the past, not to linger there, but to explain some of our personal choices and current challenges with relationship. With the strength of new awareness and insight, clients move forward in a most positive way.
Additional certifications in life coaching, memoir writing, and international adoption add rich dimensions to my conversational style and seasoned clinical skills.
Being a therapist is a true privilege. In the relaxed and safe atmosphere of my office , clients feel free to explore their deepest feelings, dreams, and real lifechallenges. Together, in a spirit of honesty,we laugh,we cry and we problem solve. Most of us want things to change, but we often don't want to change anything. To choose trust not fear, we must first explore the past, not to linger there, but to explain some of our personal choices and current challenges with relationship. With the strength of new awareness and insight, clients move forward in a most positive way.
(978) 631-2370 View (978) 631-2370
Photo of Michael G. McCay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Michael G. McCay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03802  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Couples, families, individuals. I hope to help couples regain the closeness that you felt when you were first together. I hope to help families to resolve conflict and find new ways to be together in a way that brings the family closer together. I hope to help adults to resolve personal difficulties and to work through the barriers that keep you from having the kind of life that you want. I also hope to help children in foster care and adoptive homes be able to feel accepted and welcome parts of their new families.
Couples, families, individuals. I hope to help couples regain the closeness that you felt when you were first together. I hope to help families to resolve conflict and find new ways to be together in a way that brings the family closer together. I hope to help adults to resolve personal difficulties and to work through the barriers that keep you from having the kind of life that you want. I also hope to help children in foster care and adoptive homes be able to feel accepted and welcome parts of their new families.
(603) 836-9960 View (603) 836-9960
Photo of Laurie A. Couture, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Laurie A. Couture
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and EMDR clinician who specializes in treating childhood developmental trauma and attachment challenges in children and youths ages toddler to age 22 with their parents or guardians involved in the treatment. I provide both teletherapy and in-person therapy sessions for children, youths, and their parents, as well as parenting group workshops, parent and professional consulting, and trainings for professionals.
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and EMDR clinician who specializes in treating childhood developmental trauma and attachment challenges in children and youths ages toddler to age 22 with their parents or guardians involved in the treatment. I provide both teletherapy and in-person therapy sessions for children, youths, and their parents, as well as parenting group workshops, parent and professional consulting, and trainings for professionals.
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Photo of Catherine Fatina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Catherine Fatina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I love my work and am in awe of the individuals I work with who courageously address the hurts in their life that prevent them from living more fully. It maybe a crisis in a relationship, ongoing anxiety or depression, a painful trauma, or an inner sense that things are just not right. Together we pay attention to these feelings, enabling them to be talked about, more fully experienced and then understood. This transformative process can restore joy and resilience in life, as well as improve the capacity to care about oneself and be in relationship with others.
I love my work and am in awe of the individuals I work with who courageously address the hurts in their life that prevent them from living more fully. It maybe a crisis in a relationship, ongoing anxiety or depression, a painful trauma, or an inner sense that things are just not right. Together we pay attention to these feelings, enabling them to be talked about, more fully experienced and then understood. This transformative process can restore joy and resilience in life, as well as improve the capacity to care about oneself and be in relationship with others.
(603) 819-4214 View (603) 819-4214
Photo of Seth Wizwer, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Seth Wizwer
Counselor, LCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I find that a client is best served when they are listened to, validated, but also challenged to make positive change. That is why I take a cognitive behavioral approach to the counseling I do. Whether the client is a child or adult we all have the ability to learn from the past and make different choices for the future.
I find that a client is best served when they are listened to, validated, but also challenged to make positive change. That is why I take a cognitive behavioral approach to the counseling I do. Whether the client is a child or adult we all have the ability to learn from the past and make different choices for the future.
(603) 244-3370 View (603) 244-3370
Photo of Judith Hatch-Orme, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Judith Hatch-Orme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
I offer consulting for parents to learn collaborative parenting (married or divorced). With over 37 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents to understand their children's behavior & needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. As parents struggle to meet their children's needs at a time of heightened tension, they need support and guidance. They must navigate a difficult grieving process, while they learn to transform their relationship from marital partners to business partners, sharing the "business" of raising their children together to ensure everyone thrives.
I offer consulting for parents to learn collaborative parenting (married or divorced). With over 37 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents to understand their children's behavior & needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. As parents struggle to meet their children's needs at a time of heightened tension, they need support and guidance. They must navigate a difficult grieving process, while they learn to transform their relationship from marital partners to business partners, sharing the "business" of raising their children together to ensure everyone thrives.
(603) 801-6382 View (603) 801-6382
Photo of Julia E Ovalle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Julia E Ovalle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
My view of therapy is an opportunity to engage in a collaborative process by which the therapist and client work together towards enriching lifestyle, and enhancing overall well-being. Additional treatment modalities I draw from include cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques aimed to help reframe and replace negative thought patterns leading to healthier responses in challenging situations. Furthermore, I work from a strengths based perspective that amplifies each individual's unique qualities through the process of self-discovery, healing, acceptance and forgiveness of self and others.
My view of therapy is an opportunity to engage in a collaborative process by which the therapist and client work together towards enriching lifestyle, and enhancing overall well-being. Additional treatment modalities I draw from include cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques aimed to help reframe and replace negative thought patterns leading to healthier responses in challenging situations. Furthermore, I work from a strengths based perspective that amplifies each individual's unique qualities through the process of self-discovery, healing, acceptance and forgiveness of self and others.
(603) 732-9256 View (603) 732-9256
Photo of Amanda Rose Hitchings, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Amanda Rose Hitchings
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
I am Rose, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in women's health and gender affirming care. Additionally I am a doula with specific training in Birth Story Listening. My small telemedicine practice services NH, VT, and UT. My therapy style integrates modern CBT and positive psychology approaches. Together we explore the relationship between our mental health and physical health and the ways they affect each other. New meaning and acceptance will arise. My heart is in the creative consultation practice, exploring the unique way we can foster resiliency throughout our development.
I am Rose, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in women's health and gender affirming care. Additionally I am a doula with specific training in Birth Story Listening. My small telemedicine practice services NH, VT, and UT. My therapy style integrates modern CBT and positive psychology approaches. Together we explore the relationship between our mental health and physical health and the ways they affect each other. New meaning and acceptance will arise. My heart is in the creative consultation practice, exploring the unique way we can foster resiliency throughout our development.
(603) 945-5925 View (603) 945-5925
Photo of Gretchen L Estes, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Gretchen L Estes
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Welcome to my practice. With over 18 years as a practitioner in the mental health field, I have learned that at the heart of every successful clinical relationship is a strong therapeutic connection between the therapist and client. I consider it my responsibility to create a safe and nonjudgmental space that allows you to openly explore your thoughts and feelings. My approach is collaborative, present-focused, and solution-oriented. I also believe strongly in the connection between the mind and body and support a holistic approach to emotional health and wellness.
Welcome to my practice. With over 18 years as a practitioner in the mental health field, I have learned that at the heart of every successful clinical relationship is a strong therapeutic connection between the therapist and client. I consider it my responsibility to create a safe and nonjudgmental space that allows you to openly explore your thoughts and feelings. My approach is collaborative, present-focused, and solution-oriented. I also believe strongly in the connection between the mind and body and support a holistic approach to emotional health and wellness.
(603) 760-7464 View (603) 760-7464
Photo of Deb Heath-Barlow, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portsmouth, NH
Deb Heath-Barlow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
I believe we need mutual respect and trust in a therapeutic relationship. I work to build relationships that have those aspects as a foundation in our work together. I use active listening, empathy and understanding with evidence-based strategies to determine customized approaches that meet each individual's needs. I utilize a strength-based, solution focused approach in my work, identifying strengths and coping skills to be used as tools for increased success. The use of cognitive behavioral therapy is the cornerstone of my work but other modalities may come into play.
I believe we need mutual respect and trust in a therapeutic relationship. I work to build relationships that have those aspects as a foundation in our work together. I use active listening, empathy and understanding with evidence-based strategies to determine customized approaches that meet each individual's needs. I utilize a strength-based, solution focused approach in my work, identifying strengths and coping skills to be used as tools for increased success. The use of cognitive behavioral therapy is the cornerstone of my work but other modalities may come into play.
(603) 709-4758 View (603) 709-4758
Photo of Kate Lemire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Kate Lemire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Currently accepting new clients! Life has a way of throwing bumps at us, and oftentimes, these bumps have the ability to negatively impact our mental health. My primary goal is to build trust and safety so that I can support you, your child, or your family as you navigate these obstacles in a safe space.
Currently accepting new clients! Life has a way of throwing bumps at us, and oftentimes, these bumps have the ability to negatively impact our mental health. My primary goal is to build trust and safety so that I can support you, your child, or your family as you navigate these obstacles in a safe space.
(833) 657-0325 View (833) 657-0325
Photo of Matthew Fowler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Matthew Fowler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I help children, parents, and couples overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and better their lives. Starting a family can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences, but when things do not go according to plan, this can be one of the biggest struggles for parents and children. I help families uncover the issues that contribute to the problem and find solutions to help you obtain the vision you always wanted for your child and your family.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. I help children, parents, and couples overcome obstacles, improve relationships, and better their lives. Starting a family can be one of the most exciting and fulfilling experiences, but when things do not go according to plan, this can be one of the biggest struggles for parents and children. I help families uncover the issues that contribute to the problem and find solutions to help you obtain the vision you always wanted for your child and your family.
(603) 531-8811 View (603) 531-8811
Amanda deWildt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
If you are a first responder or work in a high stress job that is affecting your personal or family life there is help to manage those symptoms and situations in order to enjoy life again. If you are diagnosed with PTSD there are ways to help manage and cope with those symptoms. It is my goal to help individuals and families reduce conflict, improve communication, and develop healthier relationships.
If you are a first responder or work in a high stress job that is affecting your personal or family life there is help to manage those symptoms and situations in order to enjoy life again. If you are diagnosed with PTSD there are ways to help manage and cope with those symptoms. It is my goal to help individuals and families reduce conflict, improve communication, and develop healthier relationships.
(603) 941-4338 View (603) 941-4338
Photo of Judith Hatch-Orme, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Judith Hatch-Orme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer counseling for adults and couples. With over 36 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents understand their children's behavior & emotional needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. Ongoing parental conflict increases psychological damage to children, thus by strengthening the co-parenting relationship, the parties can focus on their children's best interests. If you're struggling with relational challenges, childhood trauma, divorce, & ready to make positive changes, we can work together to identify family-of-origin & generational patterns holding you back. Telehealth.
I offer counseling for adults and couples. With over 36 years of clinical experience, I'm also a parenting specialist, helping parents understand their children's behavior & emotional needs. As a divorce mediator, my approach is child-centered. Ongoing parental conflict increases psychological damage to children, thus by strengthening the co-parenting relationship, the parties can focus on their children's best interests. If you're struggling with relational challenges, childhood trauma, divorce, & ready to make positive changes, we can work together to identify family-of-origin & generational patterns holding you back. Telehealth.
(603) 476-3560 View (603) 476-3560
Photo of Rebecca Peake LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Rebecca Peake LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I work with children, adolescents, and adults to provide individual, couple, and family therapy. I work from a systems focused perspective where treatment draws from client strengths, is solution-focused, and family centered. I believe in being supportive and empowering clients in their journey to improve. I enjoy using cognitive behavioral techniques to address concerns such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and general life stressors.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults to provide individual, couple, and family therapy. I work from a systems focused perspective where treatment draws from client strengths, is solution-focused, and family centered. I believe in being supportive and empowering clients in their journey to improve. I enjoy using cognitive behavioral techniques to address concerns such as self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and general life stressors.
(603) 931-3451 View (603) 931-3451
Photo of Tom Dinsmore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Tom Dinsmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
My interests lie in the area of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I also have experience treating anger and problematic behavioral challenges. I specialize in the use of cognitive behavioral interventions and will use alternative interventions when appropriate. I offer appointment times throughout the day including early morning and early evening times. I look forward to hearing from you and how I may be of help to you. If you contact me and I do not respond it is only because my schedule is completely full, and I have no available appointment times to offer. Respectfully, Tom
My interests lie in the area of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I also have experience treating anger and problematic behavioral challenges. I specialize in the use of cognitive behavioral interventions and will use alternative interventions when appropriate. I offer appointment times throughout the day including early morning and early evening times. I look forward to hearing from you and how I may be of help to you. If you contact me and I do not respond it is only because my schedule is completely full, and I have no available appointment times to offer. Respectfully, Tom
(207) 618-6596 View (207) 618-6596
Photo of Ernie R Downs, Psychologist in Portsmouth, NH
Ernie R Downs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Most people considering therapy are deep into the pattern Albert Einstein warned of: "...doing the same things over and over again and expecting different results." Sadly, when life isn't working it can be difficult or frightening to think of options other than the old ones which perpetuate the distress and dysfunction. Finally picking up the phone can be the beginning you need. To learn more about my practice please visit my website at: www.drerniedowns.com
Most people considering therapy are deep into the pattern Albert Einstein warned of: "...doing the same things over and over again and expecting different results." Sadly, when life isn't working it can be difficult or frightening to think of options other than the old ones which perpetuate the distress and dysfunction. Finally picking up the phone can be the beginning you need. To learn more about my practice please visit my website at: www.drerniedowns.com
(603) 878-5324 View (603) 878-5324
Photo of Jody Fuller, Counselor in Portsmouth, NH
Jody Fuller
Counselor, LCPC, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
The Covid 19 world is like no other. Our world often feels small and lonelyl. I am Jody Fuller and I am a Maine therapist. mM work focuses solely on the things most important to me: FAMILIES, KIDS/TEENS, and WOMEN IN TRANSITION. I offer my help. For parents, my 20+years of teaching Pre-8 and GIFTED kids, assist me in understanding your child's unique development, strengths, and needs. As a woman today, I am familiar with most transitions and difficult times. I will work to understand and support you.
The Covid 19 world is like no other. Our world often feels small and lonelyl. I am Jody Fuller and I am a Maine therapist. mM work focuses solely on the things most important to me: FAMILIES, KIDS/TEENS, and WOMEN IN TRANSITION. I offer my help. For parents, my 20+years of teaching Pre-8 and GIFTED kids, assist me in understanding your child's unique development, strengths, and needs. As a woman today, I am familiar with most transitions and difficult times. I will work to understand and support you.
(207) 482-0362 View (207) 482-0362
Photo of Deborah H. Hamilton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portsmouth, NH
Deborah H. Hamilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DEd, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Change is difficult, but it is possible. I help people identify the changes they want to make and support them in their journey toward their goals. I use a holistic and flexible approach that is designed to meet the needs of the individual. I am direct yet gentle and I challenge clients to trust and listen to themselves. I believe that living in the moment, known as mindfulness, is one of the most helpful tools that we have available to help us to learn how to foster compassion for ourselves and others, quiet our fears, identify what is important, and create the life we want.
Change is difficult, but it is possible. I help people identify the changes they want to make and support them in their journey toward their goals. I use a holistic and flexible approach that is designed to meet the needs of the individual. I am direct yet gentle and I challenge clients to trust and listen to themselves. I believe that living in the moment, known as mindfulness, is one of the most helpful tools that we have available to help us to learn how to foster compassion for ourselves and others, quiet our fears, identify what is important, and create the life we want.
(603) 692-4060 View (603) 692-4060
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.