Therapists in North Haledon, NJ

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Photo of Vanessa Matos, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Haledon, NJ
Vanessa Matos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am also certified in adoption counseling across the triad.
Welcome to Resilience DBT & Eating Recovery! Our practice offers comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and treatment for the full range of Eating Disorders for children, adolescents, and adults. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is part of a team offering support and guidance to individuals and families seeking expert intervention in a safe and supportive environment. As a DBT and certified CBT-E practitioner, I believe in utilizing evidence-based practices to achieve success and meet identified goals. I am committed to to help you return on a path of full health and healing in a safe and comfortable setting.
I am also certified in adoption counseling across the triad.
Welcome to Resilience DBT & Eating Recovery! Our practice offers comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and treatment for the full range of Eating Disorders for children, adolescents, and adults. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is part of a team offering support and guidance to individuals and families seeking expert intervention in a safe and supportive environment. As a DBT and certified CBT-E practitioner, I believe in utilizing evidence-based practices to achieve success and meet identified goals. I am committed to to help you return on a path of full health and healing in a safe and comfortable setting.
(973) 609-5058 x1 View (973) 609-5058 x1
Cherilyn Balchan Paladino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, NJ 07035  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over fifteen years of experience working with adults, children, and families. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience working with survivors of trauma (children and adults), child abuse and neglect, domestic abuse, foster/adoption issues, parenting, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety. I have worked in crisis centers, children's system of care, adult and children's group homes, ran therapeutic and psycho-educational groups, and have done intensive in home clinical work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over fifteen years of experience working with adults, children, and families. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience working with survivors of trauma (children and adults), child abuse and neglect, domestic abuse, foster/adoption issues, parenting, relationship issues, depression, and anxiety. I have worked in crisis centers, children's system of care, adult and children's group homes, ran therapeutic and psycho-educational groups, and have done intensive in home clinical work.
(201) 580-2918 View (201) 580-2918
Photo of Connections Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Connections Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haskell, NJ 07420
I also incorporate Person-Centered principles, adoption issues, couple’s issues into portfolio of interventions.
At times life become daunting, leaving you feeling uncertain, depressed, confused or anxious. Other times you experienced a life altering event or have some relational difficulties that seem overwhelming. When your goal is to find positive solutions that help you see a brighter future and the best of you who you are, our office offers you a safe place based on trust and understanding, without judgment. You will feel secure to share your difficulties, but also to wonder on the possibilities for your life. In our office we welcome you, we embrace and celebrate each person, and validate the contributions you bring to our world.
I also incorporate Person-Centered principles, adoption issues, couple’s issues into portfolio of interventions.
At times life become daunting, leaving you feeling uncertain, depressed, confused or anxious. Other times you experienced a life altering event or have some relational difficulties that seem overwhelming. When your goal is to find positive solutions that help you see a brighter future and the best of you who you are, our office offers you a safe place based on trust and understanding, without judgment. You will feel secure to share your difficulties, but also to wonder on the possibilities for your life. In our office we welcome you, we embrace and celebrate each person, and validate the contributions you bring to our world.
(973) 604-8023 View (973) 604-8023
Photo of Alice K Forsyth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Alice K Forsyth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
My approach to clinical practice is to create a warm, compassionate place where you can be heard, and heal. The process unfolds at your pace by using a variety of treatment modalities that best fit your specific goals and problem solving strengths. Human beings come from all walks of life, and share all manner of painful human experiences. Psychodynamic therapy can help address anxiety, depression, anger, caregiver stress, sexual identity, and painful loss from divorce, death, separation through foster care and adoption. From employment crisis to mid-life crisis, let me help you restore the peace of mind you deserve.
My approach to clinical practice is to create a warm, compassionate place where you can be heard, and heal. The process unfolds at your pace by using a variety of treatment modalities that best fit your specific goals and problem solving strengths. Human beings come from all walks of life, and share all manner of painful human experiences. Psychodynamic therapy can help address anxiety, depression, anger, caregiver stress, sexual identity, and painful loss from divorce, death, separation through foster care and adoption. From employment crisis to mid-life crisis, let me help you restore the peace of mind you deserve.
(973) 255-8206 View (973) 255-8206
Photo of Judith L. Hart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Judith L. Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents (aged 18 and up) and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety (generalized, social and OCD), PTSD, disordered eating, gender, sexual and cultural identity issues, relationship issues, intimate partner violence, health issues, infertility and adoption related issues. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques and approaches in order to tailor treatment to fit your needs. I use a strength based approach with all clients to help them develop coping skills and techniques to manage the stressors in their lives.
I work with adolescents (aged 18 and up) and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety (generalized, social and OCD), PTSD, disordered eating, gender, sexual and cultural identity issues, relationship issues, intimate partner violence, health issues, infertility and adoption related issues. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques and approaches in order to tailor treatment to fit your needs. I use a strength based approach with all clients to help them develop coping skills and techniques to manage the stressors in their lives.
(201) 740-5148 View (201) 740-5148
Photo of Janel Morey-Sassano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Janel Morey-Sassano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ridgewood, NJ 07451  (Online Only)
March openings availabIe! EMDR certified, women centered therapist who specializes in maternal mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder. I teach women to take care of themselves first so they can better care for others. Trained during my work at The Postpartum Stress Center, I treat women who struggle with trauma, postpartum adjustment, infertility, birth trauma, infant loss/miscarriage and adoption struggles. We strengthen the relationship to self, build a sense of emotional safety with others. We will shift the lens on the mommy myths, cultural expectations and perfectionistic standards which can cause overwhelm/shame.
March openings availabIe! EMDR certified, women centered therapist who specializes in maternal mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder. I teach women to take care of themselves first so they can better care for others. Trained during my work at The Postpartum Stress Center, I treat women who struggle with trauma, postpartum adjustment, infertility, birth trauma, infant loss/miscarriage and adoption struggles. We strengthen the relationship to self, build a sense of emotional safety with others. We will shift the lens on the mommy myths, cultural expectations and perfectionistic standards which can cause overwhelm/shame.
(618) 437-8487 View (618) 437-8487
Photo of Mary Anne Cornell Louis, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Haledon, NJ
Mary Anne Cornell Louis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAT, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westwood, NJ 07675
I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, relastionships, families, women's emotional health, adoption, and youth issues related to school, behavior and interpersonal skills.
Are you are struggling with anxiety or depression, facing a major life crisis, or feeling overwhelmed by problems that are overtaking your serenity? Therapy can give you the tools to take control and make changes in your life and/or relationships. I will help you identify and understand the issues, help you to create and implement a plan and assist you in reaching your goals. I will respect that your life is a personal journey, and I will listen to your feelings to help you determine the path you want to take. The results will be empowering.
I specialize in the areas of anxiety, depression, relastionships, families, women's emotional health, adoption, and youth issues related to school, behavior and interpersonal skills.
Are you are struggling with anxiety or depression, facing a major life crisis, or feeling overwhelmed by problems that are overtaking your serenity? Therapy can give you the tools to take control and make changes in your life and/or relationships. I will help you identify and understand the issues, help you to create and implement a plan and assist you in reaching your goals. I will respect that your life is a personal journey, and I will listen to your feelings to help you determine the path you want to take. The results will be empowering.
(201) 561-7678 View (201) 561-7678
Photo of Emily Sarah Krause, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Haledon, NJ
Emily Sarah Krause
Licensed Professional Counselor, Emily, S, Krause, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization are individual and couples therapy, adoption related children's work, women's issues, domestic violence, depression, panic disorders, OCD, stress management, employment related issues, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Welcome to my page! I am a full time clinical counselor at my own private practice Krause Therapy LLC. See my website- www.krausetherapyllc.com. I hold license in two states; a Massachusetts (LMHC), New Jersey (LPC), and am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) as well as a Nationally Board Certified Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). I currently practice online via Telemental Counseling per insurance plan approval and sliding scale basis. Also, I am offering individual supervision opportunities for LACs and provisional LMHCs for state licensure. Please contact me if interested at krausetherapyllc@gmail.com.
My areas of specialization are individual and couples therapy, adoption related children's work, women's issues, domestic violence, depression, panic disorders, OCD, stress management, employment related issues, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Welcome to my page! I am a full time clinical counselor at my own private practice Krause Therapy LLC. See my website- www.krausetherapyllc.com. I hold license in two states; a Massachusetts (LMHC), New Jersey (LPC), and am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) as well as a Nationally Board Certified Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). I currently practice online via Telemental Counseling per insurance plan approval and sliding scale basis. Also, I am offering individual supervision opportunities for LACs and provisional LMHCs for state licensure. Please contact me if interested at krausetherapyllc@gmail.com.
(551) 291-1456 View (551) 291-1456
Photo of Kristina Vande Vrede, Psychologist in North Haledon, NJ
Kristina Vande Vrede
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgewood, NJ 07450
I have also worked for many years in the field of adoption, making me specially suited to address maternal, infant, postpartum, and pregnancy-loss issues.
I specialize in perinatal and infant mental health. Perinatal psychological issues occur in the times before, during, and/or after a pregnancy. Postpartum depression is the most often talked about condition, but symptoms are not always limited to AFTER a child is born. These feelings can be extremely distressing, especially during a time when others are expecting you to be happy. You may be suffering after a miscarriage, stillbirth, or even death during pregnancy. I can offer a comfortable, safe place for you to begin to heal and move forward.
I have also worked for many years in the field of adoption, making me specially suited to address maternal, infant, postpartum, and pregnancy-loss issues.
I specialize in perinatal and infant mental health. Perinatal psychological issues occur in the times before, during, and/or after a pregnancy. Postpartum depression is the most often talked about condition, but symptoms are not always limited to AFTER a child is born. These feelings can be extremely distressing, especially during a time when others are expecting you to be happy. You may be suffering after a miscarriage, stillbirth, or even death during pregnancy. I can offer a comfortable, safe place for you to begin to heal and move forward.
(973) 718-5459 View (973) 718-5459
Photo of Madeline Till, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Madeline Till
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I've successfully treated lack of self-worth, depression, anxiety, addictions, emotional and sexual abuse, relationship issues, artists and creativity, grieving, disability, living in the dying process and adoption related issues.
Are you a talented, intelligent, person who walks around with feelings of anxiety depression and shame? Shame, that you feel underwater, that you are not living up to your potential, or that you maybe ruined what should have been a great life? My understanding of shame/resilience is at the core of my work as I believe that shame can significantly contribute to much of the stress and unhappiness we experience. Personally, having changed careers at midlife and walked a path that is unconventional, I deeply understand how shameful it can feel to believe you are an outsider.
I've successfully treated lack of self-worth, depression, anxiety, addictions, emotional and sexual abuse, relationship issues, artists and creativity, grieving, disability, living in the dying process and adoption related issues.
Are you a talented, intelligent, person who walks around with feelings of anxiety depression and shame? Shame, that you feel underwater, that you are not living up to your potential, or that you maybe ruined what should have been a great life? My understanding of shame/resilience is at the core of my work as I believe that shame can significantly contribute to much of the stress and unhappiness we experience. Personally, having changed careers at midlife and walked a path that is unconventional, I deeply understand how shameful it can feel to believe you are an outsider.
(973) 512-7001 View (973) 512-7001
Barbara Holton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of children, teens, adults. I opened my practice in New Jersey after working in NYC in clinical and leadership positions. The areas of ADHD, ODD, RAD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, gender identity, adoption, PTSD and marital discord are some of the issues I provide psychotherapy. I also treat Compassion Fatigue that occurs with First Responders, as well as, Bereavement and Trauma. I use Play Therapy with young children while using art and other modalities with teens. Adult therapy is goal oriented often using CBT as well.
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of children, teens, adults. I opened my practice in New Jersey after working in NYC in clinical and leadership positions. The areas of ADHD, ODD, RAD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, gender identity, adoption, PTSD and marital discord are some of the issues I provide psychotherapy. I also treat Compassion Fatigue that occurs with First Responders, as well as, Bereavement and Trauma. I use Play Therapy with young children while using art and other modalities with teens. Adult therapy is goal oriented often using CBT as well.
(973) 797-9228 View (973) 797-9228
Photo of Rebecca Gotterer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Rebecca Gotterer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW NJ, LCSW NY, LCSW CA, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Some of my areas of focus are: identity, anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, LGBTQ+, self-esteem, adoption, spirituality, transitions, and climate change.
I offer a safe, compassionate space for you to be seen, heard, and supported to become the person you aspire to be. I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and also find Internal Family Systems to be a helpful model. With a background in dance, yoga, and meditation, I have a holistic outlook, and rather than focusing on one methodology, I tailor my approach based on your needs. I begin by helping you clarify what you want from therapy and then facilitating your way there as you access your strengths.
Some of my areas of focus are: identity, anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, LGBTQ+, self-esteem, adoption, spirituality, transitions, and climate change.
I offer a safe, compassionate space for you to be seen, heard, and supported to become the person you aspire to be. I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and also find Internal Family Systems to be a helpful model. With a background in dance, yoga, and meditation, I have a holistic outlook, and rather than focusing on one methodology, I tailor my approach based on your needs. I begin by helping you clarify what you want from therapy and then facilitating your way there as you access your strengths.
(973) 755-2235 View (973) 755-2235
Photo of Azalea Howard, Counselor in North Haledon, NJ
Azalea Howard
Counselor, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
New Milford, NJ 07646  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW), who is well experienced working with children, teens, families, elders, and their caregivers for 10 + years. I graduated from Rutgers, The State University of NJ, with my Master’s Degree in Social Work, with high honors over 10 years ago. I also have an Undergraduate Degree in Psychology. I am grateful that I have had the privilege to have worked in multiple capacities from Residential Group Homes for children, teens, and young adults to working with toddlers and parents in Preschools and Head Start.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW), who is well experienced working with children, teens, families, elders, and their caregivers for 10 + years. I graduated from Rutgers, The State University of NJ, with my Master’s Degree in Social Work, with high honors over 10 years ago. I also have an Undergraduate Degree in Psychology. I am grateful that I have had the privilege to have worked in multiple capacities from Residential Group Homes for children, teens, and young adults to working with toddlers and parents in Preschools and Head Start.
(609) 293-4069 View (609) 293-4069
Photo of Randi Garfinkel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Randi Garfinkel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Passaic, NJ 07055  (Online Only)
Many of us struggle through the challenging times in life and seeking treatment is often a courageous first step towards change. My goal is to provide compassionate, trustworthy, and nonjudgmental support, as we partner together on a journey of coping, healing, and thriving. I believe the therapist-client relationship is most important, therefore I strive to establish an honest and warm working relationship with each client. In doing so, together we can then explore your relationships and other patterns in your life. That exploration leads to insights and understanding, geared toward discovering new ideas and finding solutions.
Many of us struggle through the challenging times in life and seeking treatment is often a courageous first step towards change. My goal is to provide compassionate, trustworthy, and nonjudgmental support, as we partner together on a journey of coping, healing, and thriving. I believe the therapist-client relationship is most important, therefore I strive to establish an honest and warm working relationship with each client. In doing so, together we can then explore your relationships and other patterns in your life. That exploration leads to insights and understanding, geared toward discovering new ideas and finding solutions.
(973) 692-8324 View (973) 692-8324
Photo of Christine Meyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Christine Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Life can present a wide array of challenges, from anxiety, to mood disorders, to trauma; all which require very specialized healing. Therapy is a personalized and integrative experience, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are seeking clarity on your past, support through a life transition, or coaching for a challenging family dynamic; I will work with you with compassion and guidance to meet your needs.
Life can present a wide array of challenges, from anxiety, to mood disorders, to trauma; all which require very specialized healing. Therapy is a personalized and integrative experience, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are seeking clarity on your past, support through a life transition, or coaching for a challenging family dynamic; I will work with you with compassion and guidance to meet your needs.
(862) 505-2946 View (862) 505-2946
Photo of Danielle Tischer: Adults Teens Families, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Danielle Tischer: Adults Teens Families
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07013
I work with teens and adults. I specialize in helping you work through depression, anxiety, life transitions, and substance misuse. I utilize Motivational Interviewing which is a collaborative partnership designed to evoke the change you want to make. I focus on an individualized approach, utilizing Partnership, Acceptance, Compassion and Evocation to help you heal from trauma. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Connecticut with a focus in addiction issues. I currently offer Telehealth sessions Monday-Friday. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
I work with teens and adults. I specialize in helping you work through depression, anxiety, life transitions, and substance misuse. I utilize Motivational Interviewing which is a collaborative partnership designed to evoke the change you want to make. I focus on an individualized approach, utilizing Partnership, Acceptance, Compassion and Evocation to help you heal from trauma. I graduated with my Masters in Social Work from the University of Connecticut with a focus in addiction issues. I currently offer Telehealth sessions Monday-Friday. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(973) 447-8144 View (973) 447-8144
Photo of Heather Koenigsfest, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Haledon, NJ
Heather Koenigsfest
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCADC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Wayne, NJ 07470  (Online Only)
Heather is an empathetic, nonjudgmental clinician with a passion to support others in their healing process in a safe environment. She is goal oriented and trauma focused in working with individuals, groups and families. Her previous professional experiences have shaped her work and made her extremely sensitive to the needs of individuals in crisis. Heather's approach assists in collaboratively working together to foster a supportive environment for growth and empowerment. Heather has extensive experience providing counseling in various treatment settings, working with various diagnosis and clientele from children to adults.
Heather is an empathetic, nonjudgmental clinician with a passion to support others in their healing process in a safe environment. She is goal oriented and trauma focused in working with individuals, groups and families. Her previous professional experiences have shaped her work and made her extremely sensitive to the needs of individuals in crisis. Heather's approach assists in collaboratively working together to foster a supportive environment for growth and empowerment. Heather has extensive experience providing counseling in various treatment settings, working with various diagnosis and clientele from children to adults.
(732) 365-4562 View (732) 365-4562
Photo of Andy H Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Haledon, NJ
Andy H Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470  (Online Only)
With many challenges in today’s times, it can be difficult to maintain a positive outlook on life. These challenges can be a result from trauma, grieving the loss of a loved one, divorce, family conflict or identity issues. Other stressors can be school performance, loss of employment, suffering from an illness or injury, impacts from COVID-19, or immigration/deportation concerns which can make going through your day-to-day seem like an impossible task. The good thing is that there is help.
With many challenges in today’s times, it can be difficult to maintain a positive outlook on life. These challenges can be a result from trauma, grieving the loss of a loved one, divorce, family conflict or identity issues. Other stressors can be school performance, loss of employment, suffering from an illness or injury, impacts from COVID-19, or immigration/deportation concerns which can make going through your day-to-day seem like an impossible task. The good thing is that there is help.
(973) 233-4484 View (973) 233-4484
Photo of Mihaela Epurianu Dranoff, Psychologist in North Haledon, NJ
Mihaela Epurianu Dranoff
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Due to my clinical training and experience, my services are best suited for families experiencing relationship issues, parenting stress, divorce, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attachment issues, developmental disabilities, and immigration-related concerns. Each of my clients receives an individualized treatment plan, and when required, a battery of tests tailored to the individual needs of the client. My work often includes school visits, participating in IEP meetings, home visits, collaboration with pediatricians and psychiatrists, testifying in court, and consulting with experts.
Due to my clinical training and experience, my services are best suited for families experiencing relationship issues, parenting stress, divorce, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attachment issues, developmental disabilities, and immigration-related concerns. Each of my clients receives an individualized treatment plan, and when required, a battery of tests tailored to the individual needs of the client. My work often includes school visits, participating in IEP meetings, home visits, collaboration with pediatricians and psychiatrists, testifying in court, and consulting with experts.
(973) 287-3257 View (973) 287-3257
Photo of Jennifer Durso, Counselor in North Haledon, NJ
Jennifer Durso
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clifton, NJ 07012  (Online Only)
Hi there! You should be proud of yourself for taking the first step of your mental health journey. Finding the right therapist takes courage, patience, and time. I am here to tell you that the wait is over! I am dedicated to helping you be your best and happiest self. In the therapy room, I will create an environment where you feel heard, supported, and comfortable. Building a strong therapeutic relationship and using it as a catalyst for change, healing, and processing is extremely important to me.
Hi there! You should be proud of yourself for taking the first step of your mental health journey. Finding the right therapist takes courage, patience, and time. I am here to tell you that the wait is over! I am dedicated to helping you be your best and happiest self. In the therapy room, I will create an environment where you feel heard, supported, and comfortable. Building a strong therapeutic relationship and using it as a catalyst for change, healing, and processing is extremely important to me.
(929) 207-7922 View (929) 207-7922

See more therapy options for North Haledon

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.