Adoption Therapists in Glen Cove, NY

Photo of Kiera Liantonio, Counselor in Glen Cove, NY
Kiera Liantonio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Glen Cove, NY 11542  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! My name is Kiera and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NY and I am so excited to begin this journey with you. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or 100th time in treatment, your strengths have brought you here! It is such an overwhelming and vulnerable process reaching out for therapy, so the fact you've found my page is already a step in the right direction. My main belief when it comes to treatment is that the client is the expert and that my role in the therapy space is to offer support, model congruence, and help clients see things in a different way.
Hi! My name is Kiera and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NY and I am so excited to begin this journey with you. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or 100th time in treatment, your strengths have brought you here! It is such an overwhelming and vulnerable process reaching out for therapy, so the fact you've found my page is already a step in the right direction. My main belief when it comes to treatment is that the client is the expert and that my role in the therapy space is to offer support, model congruence, and help clients see things in a different way.
(516) 200-4432 View (516) 200-4432
Photo of Elisse Blinder, Psychologist in Glen Cove, NY
Elisse Blinder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glen Cove, NY 11542
My practice commitment is to identify and transform what unconsciously drives your choices and unsatisfying results, so that you find the freedom to manifest what you intend. Are there patterns in your life you wish weren't there? Are you unhappy in your relationship or unhappily single? Are you struggling with some aspect of parenting? Are you sad or anxious about anything? It would be my privilege to provide you confidential support in removing the unconscious obstructions that prevent you from living an authentic, fulfilling life. Take the first step towards making better choices for a new future. Call me.
My practice commitment is to identify and transform what unconsciously drives your choices and unsatisfying results, so that you find the freedom to manifest what you intend. Are there patterns in your life you wish weren't there? Are you unhappy in your relationship or unhappily single? Are you struggling with some aspect of parenting? Are you sad or anxious about anything? It would be my privilege to provide you confidential support in removing the unconscious obstructions that prevent you from living an authentic, fulfilling life. Take the first step towards making better choices for a new future. Call me.
(516) 407-9556 View (516) 407-9556
Photo of Mary Rose Paster, Psychologist in Glen Cove, NY
Mary Rose Paster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Cove, NY 11542
When I have worked at disaster sites, I am always amazed at the resiliency in people and their responsiveness to knowing they are not alone despite sometimes very real and bad tragedies. If you work with me, I will try to find that resiliency and strength in you to guide you through both internal and life challenges. I am a seasoned psychodynamic Clinical Psychologist who has completed a post-doc training program and has done a variety of things both professionally and personally giving me diversified and extensive professional skills. I work with those that are struggling with mourning, the loss of a child, trauma, anxiety, depres
When I have worked at disaster sites, I am always amazed at the resiliency in people and their responsiveness to knowing they are not alone despite sometimes very real and bad tragedies. If you work with me, I will try to find that resiliency and strength in you to guide you through both internal and life challenges. I am a seasoned psychodynamic Clinical Psychologist who has completed a post-doc training program and has done a variety of things both professionally and personally giving me diversified and extensive professional skills. I work with those that are struggling with mourning, the loss of a child, trauma, anxiety, depres
(516) 614-3372 View (516) 614-3372
Photo of Lois Raviv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Cove, NY
Lois Raviv
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Glen Cove, NY 11542
What is child therapy? Do children sit and talk over their problems like adults do? How do I know if my child needs professional help? And, what kind of therapist is best suited for my child? Most adults have a hard time understanding that children, especially very young children, can be in need of psychotherapy. In my private practice, where I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents, parents bring children of all ages to me with a variety of reasons for their anxiety or depression. School related issues are quite common. Children who struggle with learning and attention deficit issues are prone to lowered self-esteem, often accompanied by behavior issues at home or in school. These children may also have developed problems making friends. Other children I see are feeling the effects of a transition or loss within the family. This could pertain to an illness, death, separation or divorce of parents, even the result of a parent's depression.
What is child therapy? Do children sit and talk over their problems like adults do? How do I know if my child needs professional help? And, what kind of therapist is best suited for my child? Most adults have a hard time understanding that children, especially very young children, can be in need of psychotherapy. In my private practice, where I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents, parents bring children of all ages to me with a variety of reasons for their anxiety or depression. School related issues are quite common. Children who struggle with learning and attention deficit issues are prone to lowered self-esteem, often accompanied by behavior issues at home or in school. These children may also have developed problems making friends. Other children I see are feeling the effects of a transition or loss within the family. This could pertain to an illness, death, separation or divorce of parents, even the result of a parent's depression.
(516) 513-8705 View (516) 513-8705
Photo of Katherine M Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Cove, NY
Katherine M Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Glen Cove, NY 11542
I work with individuals, couples and families. I am interactive, give my clients feedback and help them gain better self-understanding, see their strengths and/or guide them through a difficult time. With couples I help them rebuild what they may feel has been lost to them, learn what went wrong and reconnect to create a more secure bond. I offer a quiet, reflective environment where my clients can explore areas of their life that make them feel stuck or unhappy. My approach is warm and empathic. I work with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues among others.
I work with individuals, couples and families. I am interactive, give my clients feedback and help them gain better self-understanding, see their strengths and/or guide them through a difficult time. With couples I help them rebuild what they may feel has been lost to them, learn what went wrong and reconnect to create a more secure bond. I offer a quiet, reflective environment where my clients can explore areas of their life that make them feel stuck or unhappy. My approach is warm and empathic. I work with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues among others.
(516) 513-8239 View (516) 513-8239
Photo of Patricia H Hidalgo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Cove, NY
Patricia H Hidalgo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMHC
Verified Verified
Glen Cove, NY 11542  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (Spanish and English) psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with children and families of diverse backgrounds. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental and open space for individuals of all ages to explore and address issues related to past and present challenges.
I am a bilingual (Spanish and English) psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with children and families of diverse backgrounds. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental and open space for individuals of all ages to explore and address issues related to past and present challenges.
(516) 715-3349 View (516) 715-3349
Photo of Janeen Chasan Creative Arts Therapy Source, Art Therapist in Glen Cove, NY
Janeen Chasan Creative Arts Therapy Source
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Glen Cove, NY 11542
Accepting new clients! The therapists at Creative Arts Therapy Source are compassionate and person centered psychotherapists specializing in innovative approaches to help children, teens and adults overcome grief, anxiety and depression. Our team of creative arts therapists have exceptional training in evidenced based techniques and creative approaches that set us apart from more traditional talk therapy methods. We offer individual, couples and group therapy sessions throughout New York and New Jersey.
Accepting new clients! The therapists at Creative Arts Therapy Source are compassionate and person centered psychotherapists specializing in innovative approaches to help children, teens and adults overcome grief, anxiety and depression. Our team of creative arts therapists have exceptional training in evidenced based techniques and creative approaches that set us apart from more traditional talk therapy methods. We offer individual, couples and group therapy sessions throughout New York and New Jersey.
(516) 289-0017 View (516) 289-0017
Photo of New York Center for Relationship Repair, Counselor in Glen Cove, NY
New York Center for Relationship Repair
Counselor, PhD, Prof
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glen Cove, NY 11542
Hi! I'm Dr. Steinberg. Are you struggling with your relationship(s)? Are you in need of couples counseling or sex therapy? Do you need help recovering after infidelity? Do you have difficult or unsupportive parents or relatives? Do you wish to argue less (my TEDX Talk is about this!) or have parenting/family issues? Do you need extra support and guidance to help you handle challenging situations or desire to make important changes? Is "work stress" or work/life balance a problem? If you answered "Yes!" to any of these questions, then I would LOVE to work with you - to teach you valuable tools to help you secure SUCCESS!
Hi! I'm Dr. Steinberg. Are you struggling with your relationship(s)? Are you in need of couples counseling or sex therapy? Do you need help recovering after infidelity? Do you have difficult or unsupportive parents or relatives? Do you wish to argue less (my TEDX Talk is about this!) or have parenting/family issues? Do you need extra support and guidance to help you handle challenging situations or desire to make important changes? Is "work stress" or work/life balance a problem? If you answered "Yes!" to any of these questions, then I would LOVE to work with you - to teach you valuable tools to help you secure SUCCESS!
(917) 574-0825 View (917) 574-0825
Photo of Bärbel E Paredes, Counselor in Glen Cove, NY
Bärbel E Paredes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Glen Cove, NY 11542
Not accepting new clients
Psychotherapy helps to empower and meet specific goals set by the client; where hope is achievable. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has treated children, adolescents and adults with various mental and behavioral issues such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and Relationship complications.
Psychotherapy helps to empower and meet specific goals set by the client; where hope is achievable. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has treated children, adolescents and adults with various mental and behavioral issues such as ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and Relationship complications.
(516) 261-7013 View (516) 261-7013

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janeen Mary Chasan, Art Therapist in Glen Cove, NY
Janeen Mary Chasan
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
My clients struggle with challenges surrounding: ☑️ Grief and Loss ☑️ Adoption ☑️ Chronic Medical Illness .
I help people to resolve life’s struggles and transform via the creative process. Life's stressors can sometimes induce emotional tension, physical problems and other related symptoms. This impairs our ability to function at our full potential . The purpose of psychotherapy is to provide a comfortable, safe setting where issues are clearly assessed and a plan for resolution is established. As a knowledgable clinician, I provide the best opportunity for successfully accomplishing this goal.
My clients struggle with challenges surrounding: ☑️ Grief and Loss ☑️ Adoption ☑️ Chronic Medical Illness .
I help people to resolve life’s struggles and transform via the creative process. Life's stressors can sometimes induce emotional tension, physical problems and other related symptoms. This impairs our ability to function at our full potential . The purpose of psychotherapy is to provide a comfortable, safe setting where issues are clearly assessed and a plan for resolution is established. As a knowledgable clinician, I provide the best opportunity for successfully accomplishing this goal.
(516) 518-4120 View (516) 518-4120
Photo of Carolyn Berger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Cove, NY
Carolyn Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Larchmont, NY 10538
Since my own family was created through both fertility treatment and adoption, I am empathic and compassionate as well as qualified to help you.
For many, the path to parenthood isn't easy. I have been helping couples and individuals create families for over 25 years. My practice is devoted to infertility, adoption and all forms of family building. I counsel couples and individuals coping with infertility, pregnancy loss, IVF and other family building options including donor egg/sperm/embryo and compassionate surrogacy. I educate people about adoption and offer support and guidance throughout the process. I coach parents on how to talk to their child about their beginnings. I also do assessments of egg donors and intended parents interviews for IVF centers.
Since my own family was created through both fertility treatment and adoption, I am empathic and compassionate as well as qualified to help you.
For many, the path to parenthood isn't easy. I have been helping couples and individuals create families for over 25 years. My practice is devoted to infertility, adoption and all forms of family building. I counsel couples and individuals coping with infertility, pregnancy loss, IVF and other family building options including donor egg/sperm/embryo and compassionate surrogacy. I educate people about adoption and offer support and guidance throughout the process. I coach parents on how to talk to their child about their beginnings. I also do assessments of egg donors and intended parents interviews for IVF centers.
(914) 359-2110 View (914) 359-2110
Photo of Amy A. Hecht, Psychologist in Glen Cove, NY
Amy A. Hecht
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a special clinical concentration in relationships, couples and adoption.
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a special clinical concentration in relationships, couples and adoption.
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
(917) 652-6857 View (917) 652-6857
Photo of Courtney Purslow, Counselor in Glen Cove, NY
Courtney Purslow
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming on any given day, but when mental health concerns are added to the mix, it can seem impossible to overcome even small hiccups. This is normal, but it is not something that you should have to deal with alone. My goal as a therapist is to address whatever problems you are experiencing at any given moment. I provide structured sessions using evidence-based approaches to help you or your family tackle concerns related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, trauma, grief, relationship stressors, infertility and adoption issues, sport performance, and life adjustments.
Life can be overwhelming on any given day, but when mental health concerns are added to the mix, it can seem impossible to overcome even small hiccups. This is normal, but it is not something that you should have to deal with alone. My goal as a therapist is to address whatever problems you are experiencing at any given moment. I provide structured sessions using evidence-based approaches to help you or your family tackle concerns related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, trauma, grief, relationship stressors, infertility and adoption issues, sport performance, and life adjustments.
(646) 450-3064 View (646) 450-3064
Photo of Dr. Kalli Feldman (Centered Living Psychological Services), Psychologist in Glen Cove, NY
Dr. Kalli Feldman (Centered Living Psychological Services)
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
I have expertise in perinatal mental health, attachment and trauma, parenting, identity development, and transracial adoption and am a certified perinatal mental health provider and parenting facilitator.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in NYC with well over a decade of experience empowering and supporting women through life transitions, losses, and breaking distressing energy draining cycles. Are you struggling in relationships, harshly self-critical, unsure of next steps in building the life you want, a new or seasoned parent and feeling triggered and overwhelmed, or experiencing a recent change or loss? Our work together will help you better attune to yourself and build a life that feels centered, authentic, full and joyful.
I have expertise in perinatal mental health, attachment and trauma, parenting, identity development, and transracial adoption and am a certified perinatal mental health provider and parenting facilitator.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in NYC with well over a decade of experience empowering and supporting women through life transitions, losses, and breaking distressing energy draining cycles. Are you struggling in relationships, harshly self-critical, unsure of next steps in building the life you want, a new or seasoned parent and feeling triggered and overwhelmed, or experiencing a recent change or loss? Our work together will help you better attune to yourself and build a life that feels centered, authentic, full and joyful.
(929) 732-7432 View (929) 732-7432
Photo of Elizabeth Westermann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Cove, NY
Elizabeth Westermann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530  (Online Only)
For those seeking adoption, I provide education and counseling for both international and domestic adoption.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed or isolated ? Feelings of sadness, exhaustion are common for those who have experienced a loss, relationship challenges or the daily life stressors such as infertility, family/parenting issues, panic, stress, anger, or if you are seeking to make a transition in your life. You don’t have to experience emotional pain alone. I will provide you with a calm, safe place for us to work together to cope with and overcome challenges and make positive change. By identifying your personal goals, strengths and implementing coping strategies, I will help you gain the control back and move forward.
For those seeking adoption, I provide education and counseling for both international and domestic adoption.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed or isolated ? Feelings of sadness, exhaustion are common for those who have experienced a loss, relationship challenges or the daily life stressors such as infertility, family/parenting issues, panic, stress, anger, or if you are seeking to make a transition in your life. You don’t have to experience emotional pain alone. I will provide you with a calm, safe place for us to work together to cope with and overcome challenges and make positive change. By identifying your personal goals, strengths and implementing coping strategies, I will help you gain the control back and move forward.
(516) 279-3803 View (516) 279-3803
Photo of Marzieh Hadavi, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Glen Cove, NY
Marzieh Hadavi
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LPsyA, LMSW, Faculty
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
I have worked on resolving relationship conflicts, eating disorders, infertility issues, adoption concerns, and on anxiety, insomnia, depression, and traumatic stresses.
I believe that we seek treatment when we feel dissatisfied in our relationships, careers, or with ourselves. We might not be aware that our emotional conflicts block us from achieving what we want. Change and flourishing of creativity can occur when the analyst creates an accepting and safe environment for expression and exploration of all dimensions of our experiences. I am an experienced analyst with over twenty years of practice working with children, adolescents, adults and couples in Manhattan and Great Neck.
I have worked on resolving relationship conflicts, eating disorders, infertility issues, adoption concerns, and on anxiety, insomnia, depression, and traumatic stresses.
I believe that we seek treatment when we feel dissatisfied in our relationships, careers, or with ourselves. We might not be aware that our emotional conflicts block us from achieving what we want. Change and flourishing of creativity can occur when the analyst creates an accepting and safe environment for expression and exploration of all dimensions of our experiences. I am an experienced analyst with over twenty years of practice working with children, adolescents, adults and couples in Manhattan and Great Neck.
(516) 690-6980 View (516) 690-6980
Photo of Elissa Sheinkin, Counselor in Glen Cove, NY
Elissa Sheinkin
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, BCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030
I have extensive experience in crisis counseling for the dying and the bereft. I work with bereaved children and adults, counseling families suffering from loss or trauma, long-term and short-term illness, and other major life changes and challenges including divorce, infertility, job loss, and adoption. My experience is in both private practice and with Hospice Care Network. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York, New Jersey and Florida. I work with individuals, family units, and groups, to help clients achieve their goals and feel at peace. I offer evening hours. Call to schedule an appointment.
I have extensive experience in crisis counseling for the dying and the bereft. I work with bereaved children and adults, counseling families suffering from loss or trauma, long-term and short-term illness, and other major life changes and challenges including divorce, infertility, job loss, and adoption. My experience is in both private practice and with Hospice Care Network. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York, New Jersey and Florida. I work with individuals, family units, and groups, to help clients achieve their goals and feel at peace. I offer evening hours. Call to schedule an appointment.
(561) 708-4585 View (561) 708-4585
Photo of Doris Aptekar, Counselor in Glen Cove, NY
Doris Aptekar
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Roslyn, NY 11576
Hospice trained for bereavement counseling, all ages, including loss from divorce, adoption and illness.
MIRACLES CAN HAPPEN. HAVE YOURS! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, School Psychologist, Bilingual Counselor, Hypnotherapist and Teacher, with special education experience who believes that "miracles can happen". I specialize in individual (children/adults}, couples and family,and hypnotherapy facilitating in smoking cessation, phobias, ADHD,OCD, behavior management, coaching and increasing self-esteem for achieving goals. I maintain a private practice in Roslyn Estates, New York. License, Certifications & Awards: Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Honor Society in Psychology, Licensed Teacher, Certified School Psychologist. Certified Bilingual Counselor Awards: National Psychology Honor Society, New York City Works for Community Contributions.
Hospice trained for bereavement counseling, all ages, including loss from divorce, adoption and illness.
MIRACLES CAN HAPPEN. HAVE YOURS! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, School Psychologist, Bilingual Counselor, Hypnotherapist and Teacher, with special education experience who believes that "miracles can happen". I specialize in individual (children/adults}, couples and family,and hypnotherapy facilitating in smoking cessation, phobias, ADHD,OCD, behavior management, coaching and increasing self-esteem for achieving goals. I maintain a private practice in Roslyn Estates, New York. License, Certifications & Awards: Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Honor Society in Psychology, Licensed Teacher, Certified School Psychologist. Certified Bilingual Counselor Awards: National Psychology Honor Society, New York City Works for Community Contributions.
(516) 200-3415 View (516) 200-3415
Photo of Dena S Prybutok, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Cove, NY
Dena S Prybutok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Port Washington, NY 11050
Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse, grief and loss, eating issues, pregnancy loss, adoption issues or new motherhood and postpartum depression; we can work through these things together.
Life can be difficult. It can throw us for a loop. We can suddenly find ourselves feeling alone, bewildered. Life's transitions and changes can easily overwhelm us and it feels as though it is more than we can handle. But I can help you. I am here to encourage you, to support you. With an objective, non-judgmental ear and an open mind, I can give you another perspective. Sometimes, all it takes is another perspective to make life's challenges feel less intimidating.
Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse, grief and loss, eating issues, pregnancy loss, adoption issues or new motherhood and postpartum depression; we can work through these things together.
Life can be difficult. It can throw us for a loop. We can suddenly find ourselves feeling alone, bewildered. Life's transitions and changes can easily overwhelm us and it feels as though it is more than we can handle. But I can help you. I am here to encourage you, to support you. With an objective, non-judgmental ear and an open mind, I can give you another perspective. Sometimes, all it takes is another perspective to make life's challenges feel less intimidating.
(646) 798-6859 View (646) 798-6859
Photo of Lynn Hugger, Psychologist in Glen Cove, NY
Lynn Hugger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030
I have extensive experience with adoption and people with medical illness.
Therapy is a personal experience and an opportunity to get to know yourself better. Discover strategies to improve your life in a safe, private, comfortable atmosphere. We are all unique individuals; there is no one way to do therapy. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults that allow me to utilize clinical experience to find the path that helps an individual, couple or family obtain the help they are looking for.
I have extensive experience with adoption and people with medical illness.
Therapy is a personal experience and an opportunity to get to know yourself better. Discover strategies to improve your life in a safe, private, comfortable atmosphere. We are all unique individuals; there is no one way to do therapy. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults that allow me to utilize clinical experience to find the path that helps an individual, couple or family obtain the help they are looking for.
(516) 543-0999 View (516) 543-0999

See more therapy options for Glen Cove

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.