Therapists in Glen Head, NY

Photo of Awaken Wellness, Inc., Counselor in Glen Head, NY
Awaken Wellness, Inc.
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Head, NY 11545
***Email/Text preferred*** We believe that in every challenging moment in life lies the opportunity for change. Change can often be scary and/or difficult however necessary to achieve inner peace, counseling can help move forward the process to achieve mental health. Wellness is key and in our conversations I explore your values during counseling therapy sessions. We do explore all aspects of life that are important including physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual health. Typically our initial counseling sessions conversations are casual, it is a platform to ensure that I am the right fit for you.
***Email/Text preferred*** We believe that in every challenging moment in life lies the opportunity for change. Change can often be scary and/or difficult however necessary to achieve inner peace, counseling can help move forward the process to achieve mental health. Wellness is key and in our conversations I explore your values during counseling therapy sessions. We do explore all aspects of life that are important including physical, mental, emotional, financial, and spiritual health. Typically our initial counseling sessions conversations are casual, it is a platform to ensure that I am the right fit for you.
(646) 630-7933 View (646) 630-7933

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gender Solutions NY, Counselor in Glen Head, NY
Gender Solutions NY
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Seaford, NY 11783  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Gennifer Herley and I am the President of Gender Solutions NY and I am a proud Transwoman as well!. I help Individuals, Couples and Families understand gender identity issues. Are you feeling alone and struggling with your Gender Identity? If you are looking for an experienced empathetic person to talk with about any issue surrounding your Gender Identity....Let's Talk! I have expertise in following areas: LGBTQ Counseling with a focus on the Transgender Issues, Hormone evaluation letters. Adoption/Infertility, Individual & Couples Counseling, , Gender Expression (Crossdressing) as well as Businesses Consulting.
My name is Dr. Gennifer Herley and I am the President of Gender Solutions NY and I am a proud Transwoman as well!. I help Individuals, Couples and Families understand gender identity issues. Are you feeling alone and struggling with your Gender Identity? If you are looking for an experienced empathetic person to talk with about any issue surrounding your Gender Identity....Let's Talk! I have expertise in following areas: LGBTQ Counseling with a focus on the Transgender Issues, Hormone evaluation letters. Adoption/Infertility, Individual & Couples Counseling, , Gender Expression (Crossdressing) as well as Businesses Consulting.
(516) 284-8342 View (516) 284-8342
Photo of FRESH Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Head, NY
FRESH Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hempstead, NY 11550  (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 Janeen Mary Chasan, Art Therapist in Glen Head, NY
Janeen Mary Chasan
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Levittown, NY 11756
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 Dena S Prybutok, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Head, 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 Dr. Jacqueline Baer, Counselor in Glen Head, NY
Dr. Jacqueline Baer
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11791
I work with clients who experience a wide range of challenges involving medical issues, divorce, adoption, relationships, and life transitions.
I believe in your ability to examine the circumstances of your life, gain awareness, and find answers within yourself. Through an exploration of self and personal ability, I hope to help you become more present, authentic, and accepting of yourself. We will also work together to help move you toward inner trustworthiness and self-actualization, experiencing change in yourself.
I work with clients who experience a wide range of challenges involving medical issues, divorce, adoption, relationships, and life transitions.
I believe in your ability to examine the circumstances of your life, gain awareness, and find answers within yourself. Through an exploration of self and personal ability, I hope to help you become more present, authentic, and accepting of yourself. We will also work together to help move you toward inner trustworthiness and self-actualization, experiencing change in yourself.
(516) 990-4074 View (516) 990-4074
Photo of Elizabeth Westermann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Head, 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 Doris Aptekar, Counselor in Glen Head, 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 Dr. Kalli Feldman (Centered Living Psychological Services), Psychologist in Glen Head, 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 Bianca Kattan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Head, NY
Bianca Kattan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030  (Online Only)
Create positive & healthy changes in your life. You have taken a courageous step toward healing. Whether you have relationship issues, family conflicts, fears, anxiety, panic, trauma, depression, bottled up frustration and insecurities, you will gain concrete skills to manage them IMMEDIATELY. If you feel marginalized because of sexual orientation, being an immigrant, having disabilities or feel like an outsider, you will be heard, empowered and taught to be self protective. I work with the LGBTQ community. Those dealing with chronic pain, infertility and adoption, integrating a mind-body approach. I am fluent in Hebrew and Arabic.
Create positive & healthy changes in your life. You have taken a courageous step toward healing. Whether you have relationship issues, family conflicts, fears, anxiety, panic, trauma, depression, bottled up frustration and insecurities, you will gain concrete skills to manage them IMMEDIATELY. If you feel marginalized because of sexual orientation, being an immigrant, having disabilities or feel like an outsider, you will be heard, empowered and taught to be self protective. I work with the LGBTQ community. Those dealing with chronic pain, infertility and adoption, integrating a mind-body approach. I am fluent in Hebrew and Arabic.
(646) 490-9982 View (646) 490-9982
Photo of Ann Marie Morello, Counselor in Glen Head, NY
Ann Marie Morello
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP-II, CCFP, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
Plainview, NY 11803  (Online Only)
Are you an adoptee that has experienced change or transitions in your life? Do you prematurely end a relationship before you get left? This is a trauma response due to attachment issues which are common with adoptees. Most adoptees crave a secure attachment. Unresolved trauma wrecks havoc on our ability to give, receive love. Learning to understand and unravel where this comes from can help you make progress toward not avoiding these uncomfortable thoughts.
Are you an adoptee that has experienced change or transitions in your life? Do you prematurely end a relationship before you get left? This is a trauma response due to attachment issues which are common with adoptees. Most adoptees crave a secure attachment. Unresolved trauma wrecks havoc on our ability to give, receive love. Learning to understand and unravel where this comes from can help you make progress toward not avoiding these uncomfortable thoughts.
(631) 212-3174 View (631) 212-3174
Photo of Rebecca Fields, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Head, NY
Rebecca Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530
Rebecca is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She received her undergraduate degree from Temple University and received her masters degree from Stony Brook University in social work with a specialization in families, youth and transition to adulthood. Rebecca has experience working with children and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, borderline personality disorder, relationship and family conflicts, and low-self esteem in both a foster care and school setting.
Rebecca is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She received her undergraduate degree from Temple University and received her masters degree from Stony Brook University in social work with a specialization in families, youth and transition to adulthood. Rebecca has experience working with children and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, depression, OCD, borderline personality disorder, relationship and family conflicts, and low-self esteem in both a foster care and school setting.
(516) 210-4749 View (516) 210-4749
Photo of Aemma Bethon, Counselor in Glen Head, NY
Aemma Bethon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainview, NY 11803
Aemma Bethon received her Masters of the Arts in Mental Health Counseling. She received a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Psychology as well as a Bachelor of Science in Criminology. Aemma was adopted from South Korea and has a very diverse personal and professional background. Aemma is empathetic and compassionate, she loves giving people the space to truly be themselves and a space to be comfortable in. In sessions, Aemma is understanding and collaborative, and understands that no two clients are ever the same and every individual deserves a well-suited approach to what they are experiencing.
Aemma Bethon received her Masters of the Arts in Mental Health Counseling. She received a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Psychology as well as a Bachelor of Science in Criminology. Aemma was adopted from South Korea and has a very diverse personal and professional background. Aemma is empathetic and compassionate, she loves giving people the space to truly be themselves and a space to be comfortable in. In sessions, Aemma is understanding and collaborative, and understands that no two clients are ever the same and every individual deserves a well-suited approach to what they are experiencing.
(516) 908-5993 View (516) 908-5993
Photo of Sari L. Klar, Counselor in Glen Head, NY
Sari L. Klar
Counselor, LMHC , CASAC-T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
I am an experienced psychotherapist radiating with warmth and empathy. My group practice is a healing space for you to feel empowered and connect with your highest potential. We specialize in treating children, teens and adults struggling wit anxiety, depression, trauma and grief. By combining evidenced-based theories, creative interventions and alternative mind/body approaches. My practice is located in Long Beach as well as within Concierge Pediatrics in Roslyn & Woodbury.
I am an experienced psychotherapist radiating with warmth and empathy. My group practice is a healing space for you to feel empowered and connect with your highest potential. We specialize in treating children, teens and adults struggling wit anxiety, depression, trauma and grief. By combining evidenced-based theories, creative interventions and alternative mind/body approaches. My practice is located in Long Beach as well as within Concierge Pediatrics in Roslyn & Woodbury.
(516) 246-2237 View (516) 246-2237
Photo of First Step Directory, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Head, NY
First Step Directory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
(516) 324-3167 View (516) 324-3167
Photo of Jessica Dogali Mental Health Counseling, PC., Counselor in Glen Head, NY
Jessica Dogali Mental Health Counseling, PC.
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC, MAC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Meadow, NY 11554
We all encounter unexpected challenges that can leave us feeling frustrated, alone, and confused. During these difficult times we can experience anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties. One of the biggest challenges can be finding someone that you can confide in, feel supported by, and recieve guidance and understanding. Collaboratively, our comprehensive team of therapists work with clients to create a safe and supportive environment, foster personal strength and growth, and assist in navigating challenges so clients can reach their full potential and live a happier, healthier, and more productive life.
We all encounter unexpected challenges that can leave us feeling frustrated, alone, and confused. During these difficult times we can experience anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties. One of the biggest challenges can be finding someone that you can confide in, feel supported by, and recieve guidance and understanding. Collaboratively, our comprehensive team of therapists work with clients to create a safe and supportive environment, foster personal strength and growth, and assist in navigating challenges so clients can reach their full potential and live a happier, healthier, and more productive life.
(516) 543-3765 View (516) 543-3765
Photo of Patricia Pitta, Psychologist in Glen Head, NY
Patricia Pitta
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Manhasset, NY 11030
The journey of life is one filled with joy, happiness, sadness, disappointments, loss and renewal. I feel my goal as a psychologist is to enable a child, adolescent, young adult, and adult find the strength to review life's troubling issues and form new perceptions which enables different outlooks on problems. I feel the only problems in life are situations that can not be resolved. Many times the resolutions are not what we thought life would offer us, but that is what we have. Book written by Dr. Pitta: "Solving Modern Family Dilemmas: An Assimilative Therapy Approach".
The journey of life is one filled with joy, happiness, sadness, disappointments, loss and renewal. I feel my goal as a psychologist is to enable a child, adolescent, young adult, and adult find the strength to review life's troubling issues and form new perceptions which enables different outlooks on problems. I feel the only problems in life are situations that can not be resolved. Many times the resolutions are not what we thought life would offer us, but that is what we have. Book written by Dr. Pitta: "Solving Modern Family Dilemmas: An Assimilative Therapy Approach".
(516) 360-2485 View (516) 360-2485
Photo of Fayina Cohen- Emdr Hypnosis Ketamine Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Glen Head, NY
Fayina Cohen- Emdr Hypnosis Ketamine Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CHT
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
Have you tried traditional therapy and are now looking for a new "out of the box" way of addressing your life struggles, relational difficulties of spiritual questions ? Are you looking to take a deep dive into your subconscious mind and/or body's intelligence to get to the root causes and create the life changes that you desire? I am an integrative psychotherapist who incorporates, somatic therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness and in some cases ketamine assisted psychotherapy. I support and empower my clients in their healing, transformation, and spiritual growth, while creating a life of joy, love and personal fulfillment.
Have you tried traditional therapy and are now looking for a new "out of the box" way of addressing your life struggles, relational difficulties of spiritual questions ? Are you looking to take a deep dive into your subconscious mind and/or body's intelligence to get to the root causes and create the life changes that you desire? I am an integrative psychotherapist who incorporates, somatic therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness and in some cases ketamine assisted psychotherapy. I support and empower my clients in their healing, transformation, and spiritual growth, while creating a life of joy, love and personal fulfillment.
(516) 882-6719 View (516) 882-6719
Photo of Christina Fiorvanti, Psychologist in Glen Head, NY
Christina Fiorvanti
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Washington, NY 11050  (Online Only)
Pregnancy and parenting through the early childhood years can be incredibly rewarding and incredibly challenging at the same time. I specialize in supporting families during the transition to parenthood through childhood. Whether you are experiencing the expected stress related to parenting in general or you have concerns about your child's development, behavior, mood, or sleep, I am happy to be part of your support team. I also have specialized certification in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C). We will work collaboratively to find unique solutions to support your family's needs and help you find the joy in parenting.
Pregnancy and parenting through the early childhood years can be incredibly rewarding and incredibly challenging at the same time. I specialize in supporting families during the transition to parenthood through childhood. Whether you are experiencing the expected stress related to parenting in general or you have concerns about your child's development, behavior, mood, or sleep, I am happy to be part of your support team. I also have specialized certification in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C). We will work collaboratively to find unique solutions to support your family's needs and help you find the joy in parenting.
(516) 518-5983 View (516) 518-5983
Photo of Michelle A Collins-Greene, Psychologist in Glen Head, NY
Michelle A Collins-Greene
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, CGP, AGPA-F
Verified Verified
Port Washington, NY 11050
Waitlist for new clients
I have openings for group psychotherapy. It includes 2 sessions of individual intakes before joining a group. I have been in private practice for 35 years treating a wide range of personal and emotional issues for professionals, artists, creative individuals, young adult women, mothers, career women, men in relationships, teenagers in stressful family relationships, parents wanting to improve parent-child relationships of all ages, and couples. I am a Certified Group therapist and Board certified in Group Psychotherapy. I have an ongoing Women's Group in the evening.
I have openings for group psychotherapy. It includes 2 sessions of individual intakes before joining a group. I have been in private practice for 35 years treating a wide range of personal and emotional issues for professionals, artists, creative individuals, young adult women, mothers, career women, men in relationships, teenagers in stressful family relationships, parents wanting to improve parent-child relationships of all ages, and couples. I am a Certified Group therapist and Board certified in Group Psychotherapy. I have an ongoing Women's Group in the evening.
(516) 767-2166 View (516) 767-2166

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.