Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of FRESH Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
FRESH Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
My specialties include treatment of problems related to foster care, adoption, and family and other interpersonal relationships, issues with attachment, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Congratulations on taking the first step on your journey towards becoming a better you. Acknowledging the need to change is easy but following through is difficult. Finding the right person to help you through your journey can be draining but important in successfully accomplishing your goals. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable to another person is scary, but it is a strength that aids in the healing process. Humanistic and cognitive behavioral theories are used in an integrative approach to help understand your unique life experiences and how they have led to deficit-based feelings, emotions, and behaviors.
My specialties include treatment of problems related to foster care, adoption, and family and other interpersonal relationships, issues with attachment, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Congratulations on taking the first step on your journey towards becoming a better you. Acknowledging the need to change is easy but following through is difficult. Finding the right person to help you through your journey can be draining but important in successfully accomplishing your goals. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable to another person is scary, but it is a strength that aids in the healing process. Humanistic and cognitive behavioral theories are used in an integrative approach to help understand your unique life experiences and how they have led to deficit-based feelings, emotions, and behaviors.
(347) 690-7541 View (347) 690-7541
Photo of Jen Wittlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Jen Wittlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
I work with individual adults and my clinical work has included the areas of foster care, adoption, anxiety and depression.
If you are reading this, give yourself a pat on the back. It can be hard for some people to make the decision to look for a therapist and coming to this website is one of the initial steps! I view therapy as a collaborative process that is grounded in a trusting alliance between therapist and client. Therapy is a space for you to explore self-discovery, open yourself to increased self-awareness, shift troublesome thought patterns, tap into your intuition, and deepen self-acceptance. Therapy can also lead to a better understanding of your relationships with others, how you relate and what you need in your relationships.
I work with individual adults and my clinical work has included the areas of foster care, adoption, anxiety and depression.
If you are reading this, give yourself a pat on the back. It can be hard for some people to make the decision to look for a therapist and coming to this website is one of the initial steps! I view therapy as a collaborative process that is grounded in a trusting alliance between therapist and client. Therapy is a space for you to explore self-discovery, open yourself to increased self-awareness, shift troublesome thought patterns, tap into your intuition, and deepen self-acceptance. Therapy can also lead to a better understanding of your relationships with others, how you relate and what you need in your relationships.
(929) 203-8143 View (929) 203-8143
Photo of Eric Strauss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Eric Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231
My practice is varied, although the focus over the years has been the LGBTQ community. I also see singles, couples and families not identified as LGBTQ. My role is to be a supportive agent, assisting the client to explore their past and present and to be more open about conflicts that are causing stress. Together, we explore the clients family history, in order to develop a deeper understanding of their present patterns and relationships. Anxiety, low self-esteem, sexuality, work problems are all examined. As a parent who has adopted, I work with families and individuals around adoption/foster care issues.
My practice is varied, although the focus over the years has been the LGBTQ community. I also see singles, couples and families not identified as LGBTQ. My role is to be a supportive agent, assisting the client to explore their past and present and to be more open about conflicts that are causing stress. Together, we explore the clients family history, in order to develop a deeper understanding of their present patterns and relationships. Anxiety, low self-esteem, sexuality, work problems are all examined. As a parent who has adopted, I work with families and individuals around adoption/foster care issues.
(917) 810-2164 View (917) 810-2164
Photo of Rachel Ralston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Rachel Ralston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231
Waitlist for new clients
My work has focused on exploring many issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, family conflicts, and adoption and foster care issues.
Beginning therapy is a first step towards achieving wellness and greater satisfaction in life. I provide a warm, supportive environment in which my clients can begin this important journey toward personal growth and enhanced quality of life. I bring enthusiasm and a sense of humor to the therapeutic environment. Treatment is driven by individual need and I am committed to using a variety of approaches and modalities to ensure treatment is client-centered. I specialize in working with adolescents and youth, though I work with all people of all ages in maximizing individual potential and allow changes to happen.
My work has focused on exploring many issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, family conflicts, and adoption and foster care issues.
Beginning therapy is a first step towards achieving wellness and greater satisfaction in life. I provide a warm, supportive environment in which my clients can begin this important journey toward personal growth and enhanced quality of life. I bring enthusiasm and a sense of humor to the therapeutic environment. Treatment is driven by individual need and I am committed to using a variety of approaches and modalities to ensure treatment is client-centered. I specialize in working with adolescents and youth, though I work with all people of all ages in maximizing individual potential and allow changes to happen.
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Photo of Rose Latino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Rose Latino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people facing a wide variety of life challenges including trauma, anxiety, family conflict, adoption issues, parenting challenges, career transition, complicated grief, and addiction recovery. My approach is trauma informed. I primarily use IFS & EMDR also blending CBT, Sensorimotor therapy, and mindfulness. I listen to what clients see as most important and use this as a starting point. I provide long or short term therapy according to the needs/interest of each individual. I have provided online therapy since 2011.
I work with people facing a wide variety of life challenges including trauma, anxiety, family conflict, adoption issues, parenting challenges, career transition, complicated grief, and addiction recovery. My approach is trauma informed. I primarily use IFS & EMDR also blending CBT, Sensorimotor therapy, and mindfulness. I listen to what clients see as most important and use this as a starting point. I provide long or short term therapy according to the needs/interest of each individual. I have provided online therapy since 2011.
(347) 354-2484 View (347) 354-2484
Photo of Emma Rhoads, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Emma Rhoads
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, Ed, LCSW, CBT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I approach psychotherapy as a creative, collaborative undertaking between therapist and client with the goal of creating a safe, healing relationship through which clients can discover and mobilize their deepest capacities for transformation. I have been in practice for over 25 years, working with clients of all ages, including adults, couples, families, young children & adolescents. Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma, bereavement, issues surrounding adoption, parenting, and co-parenting after divorce. As a psychotherapist and special educator I have worked extensively with children with learning differences.
I approach psychotherapy as a creative, collaborative undertaking between therapist and client with the goal of creating a safe, healing relationship through which clients can discover and mobilize their deepest capacities for transformation. I have been in practice for over 25 years, working with clients of all ages, including adults, couples, families, young children & adolescents. Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, trauma, bereavement, issues surrounding adoption, parenting, and co-parenting after divorce. As a psychotherapist and special educator I have worked extensively with children with learning differences.
(917) 746-8587 View (917) 746-8587
Photo of Kathy Gordon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Kathy Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I work with a diverse group of people who bring a range of challenges: intimacy and trust in relationships, gender identity, trauma and loss, parenting and adoption, aging, depression and anxiety, professional impasses.
I have over 30 years of experience working with adults, children and families, and an ongoing passion and engagement in the art of psychotherapy. When the fit is right, a good therapeutic relationship can provide a powerful vehicle for healing and transformation. I think for therapy to really gel, you need to feel that your therapist gets you, perhaps in a way few others have. Adults I work with often tell me they have that experience with me, that they feel fully seen and understood. My work with children began in my earliest days as a therapist - and it continues to be a central part of my practice.
I work with a diverse group of people who bring a range of challenges: intimacy and trust in relationships, gender identity, trauma and loss, parenting and adoption, aging, depression and anxiety, professional impasses.
I have over 30 years of experience working with adults, children and families, and an ongoing passion and engagement in the art of psychotherapy. When the fit is right, a good therapeutic relationship can provide a powerful vehicle for healing and transformation. I think for therapy to really gel, you need to feel that your therapist gets you, perhaps in a way few others have. Adults I work with often tell me they have that experience with me, that they feel fully seen and understood. My work with children began in my earliest days as a therapist - and it continues to be a central part of my practice.
(929) 332-2613 View (929) 332-2613
Photo of Adrienne Lee Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Adrienne Lee Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LIMHP, CMSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
Adrienne also has experience volunteering with Planned Parenthood and working with individuals on depression, anxiety, trauma, transracial adoption and identity issues, gender and sexuality, and neurodivergence.
Adrienne is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-R) practicing psychotherapy and providing clinical consultation in New York, New Jersey, Nebraska, and Florida. She is a warm, attentive therapist who works with you to determine your individual needs and goals and to help you move toward finding clarity, healing, and happiness. Adrienne’s interest in counseling began as a volunteer on The Trevor Project’s suicide prevention and crisis intervention lifeline. Her early career focused on working with LGBTQIA+ youth at The Ali Forney Center before transitioning to an outpatient hospital clinic for adolescents and adults with HIV/AIDS.
Adrienne also has experience volunteering with Planned Parenthood and working with individuals on depression, anxiety, trauma, transracial adoption and identity issues, gender and sexuality, and neurodivergence.
Adrienne is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW-R) practicing psychotherapy and providing clinical consultation in New York, New Jersey, Nebraska, and Florida. She is a warm, attentive therapist who works with you to determine your individual needs and goals and to help you move toward finding clarity, healing, and happiness. Adrienne’s interest in counseling began as a volunteer on The Trevor Project’s suicide prevention and crisis intervention lifeline. Her early career focused on working with LGBTQIA+ youth at The Ali Forney Center before transitioning to an outpatient hospital clinic for adolescents and adults with HIV/AIDS.
(718) 304-2228 View (718) 304-2228
Photo of Anna Hanson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Anna Hanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-T, CHWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11235  (Online Only)
I also work with international adoption community in U.
Are you searching for a psychotherapist who can provide the guidance and support you need to overcome difficult issues? I am here to help you navigate through the challenges that have left you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and defeated. I believe in taking a holistic approach, addressing not just your thoughts and emotions, but also the connection between your mind and body. Together, we will explore your feelings, delve into your subconscious, and discover coping mechanisms that will empower you to take control of your life. Let's embark on this therapeutic journey together and unlock your true potential!
I also work with international adoption community in U.
Are you searching for a psychotherapist who can provide the guidance and support you need to overcome difficult issues? I am here to help you navigate through the challenges that have left you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and defeated. I believe in taking a holistic approach, addressing not just your thoughts and emotions, but also the connection between your mind and body. Together, we will explore your feelings, delve into your subconscious, and discover coping mechanisms that will empower you to take control of your life. Let's embark on this therapeutic journey together and unlock your true potential!
(347) 933-6672 View (347) 933-6672
Photo of Emily M Bradley, Art Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Emily M Bradley
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR, LCAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249  (Online Only)
Addiction & adoption competent.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma or feeling secure in your relationships? Do you give everything you have to your loved ones & responsibilities, but still feel stuck in toxic cycles, overwhelmed, and unsure how to change it? Whether you’re struggling with a difficult life transition, or something that happened long ago, I can help you create a new way to live. As a therapist for 20 years, I’ve developed a gentle, holistic approach to therapy. Using innovative tools, I'll help you tune into your authentic inner voice & change the way you think. I’ll be your guide to unlocking the joy and ease that you're missing.
Addiction & adoption competent.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma or feeling secure in your relationships? Do you give everything you have to your loved ones & responsibilities, but still feel stuck in toxic cycles, overwhelmed, and unsure how to change it? Whether you’re struggling with a difficult life transition, or something that happened long ago, I can help you create a new way to live. As a therapist for 20 years, I’ve developed a gentle, holistic approach to therapy. Using innovative tools, I'll help you tune into your authentic inner voice & change the way you think. I’ll be your guide to unlocking the joy and ease that you're missing.
(929) 203-3735 View (929) 203-3735
Photo of Mallory Winter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Mallory Winter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231
I have experience and training in intimate partner violence, trauma, and open adoption.
I am an LCSW who prioritizes creating a safe and supportive environment. My goal is to help clients better understand how their life histories and relationships impact their present experience, and then develop concrete strategies for problem-solving. I use a psychodynamic lens and integrate modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to assist with symptoms and improve overall functioning. I enjoy working with those experiencing life transitions, job stressors, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and perinatal mood disorders
I have experience and training in intimate partner violence, trauma, and open adoption.
I am an LCSW who prioritizes creating a safe and supportive environment. My goal is to help clients better understand how their life histories and relationships impact their present experience, and then develop concrete strategies for problem-solving. I use a psychodynamic lens and integrate modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to assist with symptoms and improve overall functioning. I enjoy working with those experiencing life transitions, job stressors, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and perinatal mood disorders
(914) 677-1369 View (914) 677-1369
Photo of Emily Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Emily Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
In my practice I strive to help each client tap into their strengths and see their true potential. I provide psychotherapy for individuals and families enduring life stressors related to anxiety, depression, loneliness, self-confidence and doubt, parenting, career challenges, learning disabilities, relationships, trauma, adoption and foster care. I have 18+ years of working with individuals impacted by trauma, especially as children.
In my practice I strive to help each client tap into their strengths and see their true potential. I provide psychotherapy for individuals and families enduring life stressors related to anxiety, depression, loneliness, self-confidence and doubt, parenting, career challenges, learning disabilities, relationships, trauma, adoption and foster care. I have 18+ years of working with individuals impacted by trauma, especially as children.
(914) 600-3278 View (914) 600-3278
Photo of Barbara D'Amato, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Brooklyn, NY
Barbara D'Amato
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11220
I specialize in the treatment of loss related experiences, which can include a spectrum of conflicts resulting from loss of a job or career, relationship break-ups, loss of a loved one, illness, questions of self worth and self esteem, and adoption and infertility issues.
Working with individuals, families, children and teens for the past 20 years, I have come to learn that we all want to be understood so that we may live healthier, more productive lives. Often times however, conflicts and repetitive behaviors prevent us from finding the satisfaction we desire. Depression, anxiety, and a host of other self defeating conditions or behaviors can emerge that interfere with basic relationship success and can cause work, or school related difficulties. My approach is to work closely with you through any issues, in an atmosphere of acceptance and support, designed to address your individual needs.
I specialize in the treatment of loss related experiences, which can include a spectrum of conflicts resulting from loss of a job or career, relationship break-ups, loss of a loved one, illness, questions of self worth and self esteem, and adoption and infertility issues.
Working with individuals, families, children and teens for the past 20 years, I have come to learn that we all want to be understood so that we may live healthier, more productive lives. Often times however, conflicts and repetitive behaviors prevent us from finding the satisfaction we desire. Depression, anxiety, and a host of other self defeating conditions or behaviors can emerge that interfere with basic relationship success and can cause work, or school related difficulties. My approach is to work closely with you through any issues, in an atmosphere of acceptance and support, designed to address your individual needs.
(646) 600-8282 View (646) 600-8282
Photo of Stephanie Ringstaff, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Stephanie Ringstaff
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
I focus on anxiety, depression, grief, and self-compassion, and I love supporting individuals/couples through life transitions and identity formation. I have a passion for helping new and hopeful parents navigate the family-building process, (be it pregnancy, postpartum mental health, child/pregnancy loss, IVF, adoption, guardianship/foster care, and the baby/toddler years). Non-traditional family structures are warmly welcome here! My background in early childhood development and parent/child relationships gives me a unique perspective and the ability to support those struggling through the adjustment period of creating a family.
I focus on anxiety, depression, grief, and self-compassion, and I love supporting individuals/couples through life transitions and identity formation. I have a passion for helping new and hopeful parents navigate the family-building process, (be it pregnancy, postpartum mental health, child/pregnancy loss, IVF, adoption, guardianship/foster care, and the baby/toddler years). Non-traditional family structures are warmly welcome here! My background in early childhood development and parent/child relationships gives me a unique perspective and the ability to support those struggling through the adjustment period of creating a family.
(646) 760-4514 View (646) 760-4514
Photo of Naa Adoley M. Pappoe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Naa Adoley M. Pappoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
Are you a woman dealing with fertility issues? Are you struggling to conceive a child; going through fertility treatments; considering using donor eggs/sperm or surrogate; or even thinking about adoption or life without children? Have you been battling with feelings of frustration, depression, anxiety, hopelessness or worthlessness? Do you find the stresses associated with your fertility journey are beginning to impact your personal relationships, making them difficult to manage? Your family and friends offer their support but you still feel alone and isolated.
Are you a woman dealing with fertility issues? Are you struggling to conceive a child; going through fertility treatments; considering using donor eggs/sperm or surrogate; or even thinking about adoption or life without children? Have you been battling with feelings of frustration, depression, anxiety, hopelessness or worthlessness? Do you find the stresses associated with your fertility journey are beginning to impact your personal relationships, making them difficult to manage? Your family and friends offer their support but you still feel alone and isolated.
(862) 256-5581 View (862) 256-5581
Photo of Alisha Bennett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Alisha Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Hello! I’m Alisha - a transracial, transnational adoptee from South Korea, educator and mother. As a dedicated therapist, I employ a multidisciplinary psychodynamic approach enriched by elements from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy models. My mission is to guide you on a transformative journey toward greater happiness, improved well-being, and enhanced connections in your life.
Hello! I’m Alisha - a transracial, transnational adoptee from South Korea, educator and mother. As a dedicated therapist, I employ a multidisciplinary psychodynamic approach enriched by elements from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy models. My mission is to guide you on a transformative journey toward greater happiness, improved well-being, and enhanced connections in your life.
(929) 298-4684 View (929) 298-4684
Photo of Maria-Christina S Bichay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Maria-Christina S Bichay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Why therapy? I believe that we all reach places in our lives where we need to slow down and reconnect with ourselves. At times therapy can feel like an essential human need - a place to go when you need to feel understood, supported and cared for. A strong therapeutic relationship can be one of the most important and unique relationships in your life. My goal is to work together to help you feel empowered and capable of change. Lets explore the patterns that may be holding you back and help you move forward!
Why therapy? I believe that we all reach places in our lives where we need to slow down and reconnect with ourselves. At times therapy can feel like an essential human need - a place to go when you need to feel understood, supported and cared for. A strong therapeutic relationship can be one of the most important and unique relationships in your life. My goal is to work together to help you feel empowered and capable of change. Lets explore the patterns that may be holding you back and help you move forward!
(929) 357-2377 View (929) 357-2377
Photo of Cassie Enea, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Cassie Enea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11208  (Online Only)
I believe every person has the power to create positive change. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome and resolve their problems by learning healthy coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and developing a healthy outlook! After attaining my Masters degree in social work at Stony Brook University, I have found fulfillment in assisting others in recognizing and fostering their own strengths, and improving their quality of life.
I believe every person has the power to create positive change. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome and resolve their problems by learning healthy coping skills, increasing self-esteem, and developing a healthy outlook! After attaining my Masters degree in social work at Stony Brook University, I have found fulfillment in assisting others in recognizing and fostering their own strengths, and improving their quality of life.
(347) 673-0750 View (347) 673-0750
Photo of Beverly Rohlehr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Beverly Rohlehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with the difficult task of finding a psychotherapist for yourself or someone else? I am a skilled and seasoned culturally competent therapist offering sensitive, unbiased psychotherapy in a safe, supportive environment. In our work together you will have the opportunity to reach greater self-awareness and an improved ability to make the changes that will enhance your life. Whether or not you have been in therapy before, we will explore who, what and where you are in your life now. My style is interactive and I welcome your thoughts, feelings and concerns as I guide you through the process.
Are you struggling with the difficult task of finding a psychotherapist for yourself or someone else? I am a skilled and seasoned culturally competent therapist offering sensitive, unbiased psychotherapy in a safe, supportive environment. In our work together you will have the opportunity to reach greater self-awareness and an improved ability to make the changes that will enhance your life. Whether or not you have been in therapy before, we will explore who, what and where you are in your life now. My style is interactive and I welcome your thoughts, feelings and concerns as I guide you through the process.
(646) 600-5151 View (646) 600-5151
Photo of Zan Jacobus Insight Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Zan Jacobus Insight Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
It is a privilege to be a therapist because patients entrust you with closely held and often pained parts of themselves, along with parts of themselves they are excited about and proud of. I see our work as the creation of a place where these different parts of the patient's self can come into the room and be acknowledged and recognized. Therapy is also a place where you, as the patient, can use my listening ear to help you withstand pain and anxiety. Please see my website: zanjacobusinsightpsychotherapy.com
It is a privilege to be a therapist because patients entrust you with closely held and often pained parts of themselves, along with parts of themselves they are excited about and proud of. I see our work as the creation of a place where these different parts of the patient's self can come into the room and be acknowledged and recognized. Therapy is also a place where you, as the patient, can use my listening ear to help you withstand pain and anxiety. Please see my website: zanjacobusinsightpsychotherapy.com
(718) 569-7881 View (718) 569-7881
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.