Adoption Therapists in Ravenna, OH

Johanna M Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ravenna, OH 44266
It is often scary and intimidating to need and ask for help. I am here to provide comfort and support through difficult times and challenge you to become a stronger person during more quiet times of soul-searching and self-improvement. I work with individuals, couples, families and/or children/adolescents as needed. I have had over 15 years of clinical experience addressing all kinds of issues such as marital difficulties, adolescent acting-out, alcohol and drug abuse, family-of-origin issues, domestic violence and spiritual searching.
It is often scary and intimidating to need and ask for help. I am here to provide comfort and support through difficult times and challenge you to become a stronger person during more quiet times of soul-searching and self-improvement. I work with individuals, couples, families and/or children/adolescents as needed. I have had over 15 years of clinical experience addressing all kinds of issues such as marital difficulties, adolescent acting-out, alcohol and drug abuse, family-of-origin issues, domestic violence and spiritual searching.
(330) 409-7359 View (330) 409-7359
Photo of Derek Stegner, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ravenna, OH
Derek Stegner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Verified Verified
Ravenna, OH 44266  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
(330) 359-1833 View (330) 359-1833
Photo of Simply Amazing Family Environment, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ravenna, OH
Simply Amazing Family Environment
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ravenna, OH 44266
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who specializes in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 3 years of experience working in behavioral health, providing individual therapy to teens and adults, families, & couples, group therapy, crisis stabilization, and residential mental health. I have a passion for working with depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. I take a person-centered approach to create a welcoming environment. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship is the key to effective counseling. I incorporate evidenced based modalities when providing family, couples, & individual therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, who specializes in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have over 3 years of experience working in behavioral health, providing individual therapy to teens and adults, families, & couples, group therapy, crisis stabilization, and residential mental health. I have a passion for working with depression, anxiety, trauma, and eating disorders. I take a person-centered approach to create a welcoming environment. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship is the key to effective counseling. I incorporate evidenced based modalities when providing family, couples, & individual therapy.
(330) 295-3496 View (330) 295-3496
Photo of Western Reserve Psychological Associates,Inc in Ravenna, OH
Western Reserve Psychological Associates,Inc
PhD
Verified Verified
Ravenna, OH 44266
Western Reserve Psychological Associates, Inc. is committed to providing the highest quality outpatient psychological services in order to help our clients cope with and find solutions to problems of daily living. Fully licensed and qualified mental health professionals will provide our services in a confidential, supportive and caring environment.
Western Reserve Psychological Associates, Inc. is committed to providing the highest quality outpatient psychological services in order to help our clients cope with and find solutions to problems of daily living. Fully licensed and qualified mental health professionals will provide our services in a confidential, supportive and caring environment.
(330) 650-5338 View (330) 650-5338

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sereena Creamer, Counselor in Ravenna, OH
Sereena Creamer
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Streetsboro, OH 44241
I have a passion in assisting individuals, family's, and couples in making a positive change within their lives and processing their feelings, thoughts, traumas, and concerns. I am a therapist who understands building rapport and having a strong therapeutic relationship is essential in counseling. I have experience working with couples, families, and individuals address all majors issues which are causing emotional distress, daily sadness, confrontations/arguments, and the desire to quit. I am goal oriented and work hard to ensure positive results for the client to find hope, happiness, relief, and peace.
I have a passion in assisting individuals, family's, and couples in making a positive change within their lives and processing their feelings, thoughts, traumas, and concerns. I am a therapist who understands building rapport and having a strong therapeutic relationship is essential in counseling. I have experience working with couples, families, and individuals address all majors issues which are causing emotional distress, daily sadness, confrontations/arguments, and the desire to quit. I am goal oriented and work hard to ensure positive results for the client to find hope, happiness, relief, and peace.
(234) 231-8410 View (234) 231-8410
Photo of Paul Culbertson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ravenna, OH
Paul Culbertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, OH 44240  (Online Only)
I treat: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma (with or without PTSD), ADHD, and Autism (does not need to be previously diagnosed). My method is to analyze connections which typically stem back to one’s family of origin, which can lead to poor self-regard. Together, we work to identify patterns and tendencies, as well as where they came from. I’ve seen people change for the better. We are looking for results, realizations, epiphanies, and for you to break free from the cycle of unhappiness and self-loathing. www.PaulCulbertson.com
I treat: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma (with or without PTSD), ADHD, and Autism (does not need to be previously diagnosed). My method is to analyze connections which typically stem back to one’s family of origin, which can lead to poor self-regard. Together, we work to identify patterns and tendencies, as well as where they came from. I’ve seen people change for the better. We are looking for results, realizations, epiphanies, and for you to break free from the cycle of unhappiness and self-loathing. www.PaulCulbertson.com
(234) 217-5494 View (234) 217-5494
Photo of Rose Mcintyre, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ravenna, OH
Rose Mcintyre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44240
My goal is to listen to you in a way that you may never have felt listened to before. Surprisingly, this, in itself, is a healing experience. I will be kind, objective and non judgmental. I will also share my intuitive take on you. Many have told me I am "right on". You will grow in insight and self regard. I will be your coach, and, together, we will learn what needs to change in your life. My hope is that you emerge with renewed energy, a smile on your face and a skip in your step! I welcome your call.
My goal is to listen to you in a way that you may never have felt listened to before. Surprisingly, this, in itself, is a healing experience. I will be kind, objective and non judgmental. I will also share my intuitive take on you. Many have told me I am "right on". You will grow in insight and self regard. I will be your coach, and, together, we will learn what needs to change in your life. My hope is that you emerge with renewed energy, a smile on your face and a skip in your step! I welcome your call.
(330) 618-0974 View (330) 618-0974

Online Therapists

Photo of Mallory Tedrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ravenna, OH
Mallory Tedrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westlake, OH 44145
Seeking out therapy can be a challenging, but vital first step in reducing anxieties related to past or present challenges. Finding the right therapist is just as important as the healing work itself. I have over 10-years of experience working with individuals dealing with grief, loss, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress-disorder. I also specialize in working with families and individuals who have been affected by foster care and adoption.
Seeking out therapy can be a challenging, but vital first step in reducing anxieties related to past or present challenges. Finding the right therapist is just as important as the healing work itself. I have over 10-years of experience working with individuals dealing with grief, loss, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress-disorder. I also specialize in working with families and individuals who have been affected by foster care and adoption.
(440) 644-4682 View (440) 644-4682
Photo of Marilyn Malkin, Psychologist in Ravenna, OH
Marilyn Malkin
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44106
i do a lot of work with people experiencing loss, chronic illness, and adoption issues.
I work with children, adolescents and adults. With children and adolescents, I do individual treatment and family consultation. The issues I work with include developmental concerns and adjustment problems, e.g., socialization, loss, divorce. I reinforce my work with children by strengthening parenting skills. I collaborate with schools as needed. My work with adults and the elderly includes life cycle issues, stress, depression and anxiety.
i do a lot of work with people experiencing loss, chronic illness, and adoption issues.
I work with children, adolescents and adults. With children and adolescents, I do individual treatment and family consultation. The issues I work with include developmental concerns and adjustment problems, e.g., socialization, loss, divorce. I reinforce my work with children by strengthening parenting skills. I collaborate with schools as needed. My work with adults and the elderly includes life cycle issues, stress, depression and anxiety.
(440) 847-9950 View (440) 847-9950
Photo of Flourish CLE, Counselor in Ravenna, OH
Flourish CLE
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, ATR, RYT-200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44111  (Online Only)
I work to support clients struggling with challenges related to ADHD, Adjustment (general issues), Adoption, Anxiety, Attachment issues, Bereavement, Complex Trauma/PTSD, Complicated Grief/Traumatic Loss, Depression, LGBTQIA+ Issues, and Life Transitions of all ages.
Hello! My name is Ally McCarley. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor, registered art therapist, and registered yoga teacher. I believe that everyone is capable of healing and growth if given the right tools and support. I also believe that all parts of your self and your story deserve to be heard, honored, validated and sometimes challenged in a safe, supportive space. I have extensive training in many trauma informed modalities including Art Therapy, Yoga, Mindfulness and Meditation, Therapeutic Play, parts of self and EMDR and utilize a blend of these treatments depending on a client's particular needs and experiences.
I work to support clients struggling with challenges related to ADHD, Adjustment (general issues), Adoption, Anxiety, Attachment issues, Bereavement, Complex Trauma/PTSD, Complicated Grief/Traumatic Loss, Depression, LGBTQIA+ Issues, and Life Transitions of all ages.
Hello! My name is Ally McCarley. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor, registered art therapist, and registered yoga teacher. I believe that everyone is capable of healing and growth if given the right tools and support. I also believe that all parts of your self and your story deserve to be heard, honored, validated and sometimes challenged in a safe, supportive space. I have extensive training in many trauma informed modalities including Art Therapy, Yoga, Mindfulness and Meditation, Therapeutic Play, parts of self and EMDR and utilize a blend of these treatments depending on a client's particular needs and experiences.
(216) 485-3781 View (216) 485-3781
Photo of Robert J Reitman, Counselor in Ravenna, OH
Robert J Reitman
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Berea, OH 44017  (Online Only)
Barbara's experience with a wide array of woman's issues, the child welfare system, adoption, and foster care compliment and support my competencies.
I have more than 20 years experience in relationship counseling, men's issues and family counseling. Electronic media and video game abuse have become important counseling topics that I treat. I help men with life transitions and work issues, partners navigate relationship issues and families resolve conflict. I help with difficult children & adolescents and wrote "How to Change Your Child's Behavior". It highlights principles of good parenting, why children get out of control, and how to establish rules. My protocol is used by schools, child welfare agencies, and juvenile justice systems. I also specialize in treating ADHD.
Barbara's experience with a wide array of woman's issues, the child welfare system, adoption, and foster care compliment and support my competencies.
I have more than 20 years experience in relationship counseling, men's issues and family counseling. Electronic media and video game abuse have become important counseling topics that I treat. I help men with life transitions and work issues, partners navigate relationship issues and families resolve conflict. I help with difficult children & adolescents and wrote "How to Change Your Child's Behavior". It highlights principles of good parenting, why children get out of control, and how to establish rules. My protocol is used by schools, child welfare agencies, and juvenile justice systems. I also specialize in treating ADHD.
(440) 529-2748 View (440) 529-2748
Photo of Cindy Kaufman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ravenna, OH
Cindy Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Aurora, OH 44202
My specialty areas include behavioral challenges in children and teens, divorce/blended family issues, life transitions, grief/loss, parenting & adoption.
I believe that each person has the ability to make positive changes by learning and practicing new skills and strategies to apply in whatever areas of their life they want to improve. I enjoy partnering with individuals, couples, and families to find their inner strength and move forward in the process of achieving their goals. I often blend elements from different evidence based approaches and tailor treatment according to your unique needs. I have expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy
My specialty areas include behavioral challenges in children and teens, divorce/blended family issues, life transitions, grief/loss, parenting & adoption.
I believe that each person has the ability to make positive changes by learning and practicing new skills and strategies to apply in whatever areas of their life they want to improve. I enjoy partnering with individuals, couples, and families to find their inner strength and move forward in the process of achieving their goals. I often blend elements from different evidence based approaches and tailor treatment according to your unique needs. I have expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy
(440) 530-9191 View (440) 530-9191
Photo of Bridget Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ravenna, OH
Bridget Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lyndhurst, OH 44124  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Bridget and my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment where we can explore your individual needs and work toward goals we set together. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I work with people of all ages who experience difficulties revolving around trauma, depression, anxiety, and adoption related issues. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents. My style is integrative and relaxed.
Hello! My name is Bridget and my goal is to create a safe and comfortable environment where we can explore your individual needs and work toward goals we set together. I am a trauma-informed therapist and I work with people of all ages who experience difficulties revolving around trauma, depression, anxiety, and adoption related issues. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents. My style is integrative and relaxed.
(440) 595-4095 View (440) 595-4095
Photo of Carla Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ravenna, OH
Carla Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, EdS, LSW
Verified Verified
North Olmsted, OH 44070
These families have specific needs that relate back to their trauma/adoption.
As your therapist I will help you in reaching your goals at your own pace. Many families struggle in connecting with their child when they are hurt or dysregulated. Children's behavior is not always the first thing to tackle, it is what is underneath the behavior. I will help you and your family as you process the various thoughts and emotions that are impacting your child's behavior.
These families have specific needs that relate back to their trauma/adoption.
As your therapist I will help you in reaching your goals at your own pace. Many families struggle in connecting with their child when they are hurt or dysregulated. Children's behavior is not always the first thing to tackle, it is what is underneath the behavior. I will help you and your family as you process the various thoughts and emotions that are impacting your child's behavior.
(216) 284-7930 View (216) 284-7930
Photo of Sarah Lindsay Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ravenna, OH
Sarah Lindsay Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boardman, OH 44512
Additionally, I offer family therapy and have special training with reunification and foster/adoption/kinship care.
Have you ever felt lost in life or like you don’t quite belong? Do you feel crushed by the weight of the world and are seeking understanding and purpose? Have issues of the past stopped you from living your greatest potential? Whether you are an overwhelmed parent with a child experiencing behaviors, a person looking to heal from trauma, or simply searching for your sense of self, my goal is to help you not only realize your potential, but grow in those strengths and foster empowerment. My goal is to offer you support and a safe place to be vulnerable in searching for your unique purpose while healing from the hang ups of the past.
Additionally, I offer family therapy and have special training with reunification and foster/adoption/kinship care.
Have you ever felt lost in life or like you don’t quite belong? Do you feel crushed by the weight of the world and are seeking understanding and purpose? Have issues of the past stopped you from living your greatest potential? Whether you are an overwhelmed parent with a child experiencing behaviors, a person looking to heal from trauma, or simply searching for your sense of self, my goal is to help you not only realize your potential, but grow in those strengths and foster empowerment. My goal is to offer you support and a safe place to be vulnerable in searching for your unique purpose while healing from the hang ups of the past.
(330) 859-4864 View (330) 859-4864
Photo of Margaret Maxwell, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ravenna, OH
Margaret Maxwell
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Youngstown, OH 44502  (Online Only)
Welcome! My goal as a therapist is to create a warm and authentic relationship with my clients. Life can be overwhelming and challenging; my goal is to support you and help you navigate through this time. My hope is to help individuals implement useful tools and skills to help them manage their anxiety and stress. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental health field for over 12 years. Some of my experience includes working with anxiety, depression, foster care and adoption, motherhood, and ADHD.
Welcome! My goal as a therapist is to create a warm and authentic relationship with my clients. Life can be overwhelming and challenging; my goal is to support you and help you navigate through this time. My hope is to help individuals implement useful tools and skills to help them manage their anxiety and stress. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental health field for over 12 years. Some of my experience includes working with anxiety, depression, foster care and adoption, motherhood, and ADHD.
(724) 856-0868 View (724) 856-0868
Photo of Kelvette Beacham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ravenna, OH
Kelvette Beacham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lyndhurst, OH 44124
With over 10 years of work with school age students, teenagers, and adoption, I have a unique perspective on lifespan and development.
This was a rough year. You are anxious, depressed, stressed, burned out, and just plain tired. Getting out of bed and going to work takes all your energy. Relationships are a mess or nonexistent. You feel stuck and it doesn’t seem like things can get any better. Every thought you have is negative and then you start thinking about the past and all that stuff. Next thing you know another year has gone by and things haven’t changed. You want to feel better. You want to make changes in your life. You want better relationships. You want to be the best version of yourself, but something is in the way.
With over 10 years of work with school age students, teenagers, and adoption, I have a unique perspective on lifespan and development.
This was a rough year. You are anxious, depressed, stressed, burned out, and just plain tired. Getting out of bed and going to work takes all your energy. Relationships are a mess or nonexistent. You feel stuck and it doesn’t seem like things can get any better. Every thought you have is negative and then you start thinking about the past and all that stuff. Next thing you know another year has gone by and things haven’t changed. You want to feel better. You want to make changes in your life. You want better relationships. You want to be the best version of yourself, but something is in the way.
(216) 242-4564 View (216) 242-4564
Lois A Fridenstine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oberlin, OH 44074
Other areas of specialization are Foster care/Adoption; Domestic Violence including children who have seen a parent murder the other parent; Relationships; Chronic Illness; Alcoholic family systems; Behavior management; Self-esteem; and Parenting.
Children, families and adults are very special to me. Children ages 0-10, pre-teens, teens, college students and adults of all ages. Parent/Giuardian involvement, both father and mother, is mandatory when working with children. I have extensive training and experience in trauma treatment, family therapy, ADHD assessment and treatment and anxiety. My areas of specialization include depression; anxiety; trauma issues including rape, incest and childhood/adult emotional, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and poverty; grief and loss; and life adjustment.
Other areas of specialization are Foster care/Adoption; Domestic Violence including children who have seen a parent murder the other parent; Relationships; Chronic Illness; Alcoholic family systems; Behavior management; Self-esteem; and Parenting.
Children, families and adults are very special to me. Children ages 0-10, pre-teens, teens, college students and adults of all ages. Parent/Giuardian involvement, both father and mother, is mandatory when working with children. I have extensive training and experience in trauma treatment, family therapy, ADHD assessment and treatment and anxiety. My areas of specialization include depression; anxiety; trauma issues including rape, incest and childhood/adult emotional, physical and sexual abuse, neglect and poverty; grief and loss; and life adjustment.
(440) 424-4365 View (440) 424-4365
Photo of Amy Lomis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ravenna, OH
Amy Lomis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mentor, OH 44060
I also have experience with and a special passion for working with those touched by adoption.
Having difficulty managing negative thoughts, feelings. and behaviors? Is this impacting your daily functioning and your relationship with yourself and others? Are you wanting to feel your best and ultimately live your best life?
I also have experience with and a special passion for working with those touched by adoption.
Having difficulty managing negative thoughts, feelings. and behaviors? Is this impacting your daily functioning and your relationship with yourself and others? Are you wanting to feel your best and ultimately live your best life?
(440) 271-5862 View (440) 271-5862
Photo of Beth M Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ravenna, OH
Beth M Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I have special interest in working with clients/families dealing with issues such as: trauma, adjustment to illness; end-of-life; anticipatory, disenfranchised & general grief/loss; pet loss; caregiver stress & fatigue; relationships; adjustment & mood disorders; adoption; LGBTQ+ issues & life transitions.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a PhD in psychology (academic degree). My humanistic approach engages clients in active collaboration on the content/direction of therapy. I strive to make the therapeutic space & time warm, welcoming, & safe, to provide clients the ability to focus on problems. I have extensive experience working within healthcare & hospice environments, & have a strong understanding of medical issues. I utilize strengths-based approaches in counseling individuals, couples, & families. Techniques are based on therapies including; EMDR, mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, & client-centered therapy. My dissertation focused on existential suffering at end of life.
I have special interest in working with clients/families dealing with issues such as: trauma, adjustment to illness; end-of-life; anticipatory, disenfranchised & general grief/loss; pet loss; caregiver stress & fatigue; relationships; adjustment & mood disorders; adoption; LGBTQ+ issues & life transitions.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a PhD in psychology (academic degree). My humanistic approach engages clients in active collaboration on the content/direction of therapy. I strive to make the therapeutic space & time warm, welcoming, & safe, to provide clients the ability to focus on problems. I have extensive experience working within healthcare & hospice environments, & have a strong understanding of medical issues. I utilize strengths-based approaches in counseling individuals, couples, & families. Techniques are based on therapies including; EMDR, mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, & client-centered therapy. My dissertation focused on existential suffering at end of life.
(440) 210-0430 View (440) 210-0430

See more therapy options for Ravenna

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.