Photo of Carla Tamplin, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla Tamplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45506  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with parenthood? Maybe that means having difficulty achieving/maintaining pregnancy, or struggling with a postpartum transition. Our society does not always give women and families the support they need to thrive, or a safe place to talk about issues such as miscarriage, birth trauma or infant loss. I want to be that safe place. Issues such as infertility, postpartum depression or anxiety and adoption can make what should be a joyful time into one of the most difficult times of one's life instead. I would be honored to walk with you in creating the family you want and becoming the best parent you can be!
Are you struggling with parenthood? Maybe that means having difficulty achieving/maintaining pregnancy, or struggling with a postpartum transition. Our society does not always give women and families the support they need to thrive, or a safe place to talk about issues such as miscarriage, birth trauma or infant loss. I want to be that safe place. Issues such as infertility, postpartum depression or anxiety and adoption can make what should be a joyful time into one of the most difficult times of one's life instead. I would be honored to walk with you in creating the family you want and becoming the best parent you can be!
(937) 828-4639 View (937) 828-4639
Photo of Lynda Lee Fenner, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lynda Lee Fenner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45420
Over the years I have worked with clients of all backgrounds and issues. I believe you are the most important person who walks into my office. I believe your experience in therapy should be helpful and that you feel you are treated with the dignity and respect you deserve. Our building a relationship is important in this process. You are the leader in managing your treatment and my job is to listen and follow your lead. For many families, adoption was an option to building that family. As a parent of nine adopted children who are now adults, I appreciate the special challenges we have faced.
Over the years I have worked with clients of all backgrounds and issues. I believe you are the most important person who walks into my office. I believe your experience in therapy should be helpful and that you feel you are treated with the dignity and respect you deserve. Our building a relationship is important in this process. You are the leader in managing your treatment and my job is to listen and follow your lead. For many families, adoption was an option to building that family. As a parent of nine adopted children who are now adults, I appreciate the special challenges we have faced.
(937) 468-3171 View (937) 468-3171
Photo of Mallory Tedrick, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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/or 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/or adoption.
(440) 644-4682 View (440) 644-4682
Photo of Kate Riznyk, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Riznyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Lakewood, OH 44107
Areas of specialization include trauma, separation and loss, attachment & relationships, adoption, emotional & behavioral adjustments, depression, anxiety.
I am compassionate about connecting with others to reduce emotional distress and impact positive healing and growth. It is my intention to provide a warm and accepting therapeutic alliance.
Areas of specialization include trauma, separation and loss, attachment & relationships, adoption, emotional & behavioral adjustments, depression, anxiety.
I am compassionate about connecting with others to reduce emotional distress and impact positive healing and growth. It is my intention to provide a warm and accepting therapeutic alliance.
(216) 350-0440 View (216) 350-0440
Photo of Julie Kungl, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Kungl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I've also worked with many families joined through adoption.
Are you looking to overcome a particular problem, feel less depressed or anxious, improve your relationships with others, or better cope with every day struggles that life can bring? We all pass through different seasons in our life, and occasionally we get stuck in a certain season that leaves us unhappy, dissatisfied, conflicted or worried. Sometimes learning a few new tools that help us change the way we think can dramatically change the way we feel, moving us forward again.
I've also worked with many families joined through adoption.
Are you looking to overcome a particular problem, feel less depressed or anxious, improve your relationships with others, or better cope with every day struggles that life can bring? We all pass through different seasons in our life, and occasionally we get stuck in a certain season that leaves us unhappy, dissatisfied, conflicted or worried. Sometimes learning a few new tools that help us change the way we think can dramatically change the way we feel, moving us forward again.
(440) 557-2922 View (440) 557-2922
Photo of Carol E McClure, MACMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Carol E McClure
Counselor, MACMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westerville, OH 43081
My clinical focus includes: * Adoption (Bonding and Transition) * Adults, Adolescents age 16up * Adults of Childhood Abuse and Subsequent Issues * Grief * LGBTQ * Life Transitions * Mood Disorders * Pregnancy Losses (miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion, selective termination) * Relationship Issues * Self-Esteem * Sexuality * Sexual Assault * Women's Issues.
I have extensive training and over 30 years of experience working with adult survivors of childhood abuse and pregnancy loss, including abortion. I hold an MA in Mental Health Clinical Counseling and have completed the Jungian Professional Psychotherapy program with the CG Jung Institute of Chicago. Additionally, I work with couples using the Gottman Method to strengthen relationships and deal with underlying issues. I also hold a certification for coaching with the Enneagram. Recently, my husband and I celebrated 44 years of marriage.
My clinical focus includes: * Adoption (Bonding and Transition) * Adults, Adolescents age 16up * Adults of Childhood Abuse and Subsequent Issues * Grief * LGBTQ * Life Transitions * Mood Disorders * Pregnancy Losses (miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion, selective termination) * Relationship Issues * Self-Esteem * Sexuality * Sexual Assault * Women's Issues.
I have extensive training and over 30 years of experience working with adult survivors of childhood abuse and pregnancy loss, including abortion. I hold an MA in Mental Health Clinical Counseling and have completed the Jungian Professional Psychotherapy program with the CG Jung Institute of Chicago. Additionally, I work with couples using the Gottman Method to strengthen relationships and deal with underlying issues. I also hold a certification for coaching with the Enneagram. Recently, my husband and I celebrated 44 years of marriage.
(614) 980-0093 View (614) 980-0093
Photo of Amy Lomis, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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
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 Ally McCarley - Flourish CLE, MA, LPCC-S, ATR, RYT-200, Counselor
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 Lorran Upchurch, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorran Upchurch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43623
I have experience in many specialities including grief/bereavement, work performance, co-dependency recovery, family conflict, foster care/ adoption, women's issues, caregiver fatigue, parenting challenges, Christian/ faith based therapy, and emotional/ mood disorders.
Depression, trauma, and uncontrollable fear/anxiety can wreak havoc on your life and make it challenging to even complete ordinary tasks. But, with a renewed perspective, problems solved, eliminated barriers, and hope I will help you identify and overcome the issues standing in your way. I offer a relaxing and safe environment where we will find a unique, personalized way to achieve your goals. I use a blend of techniques from various therapeutic approaches.
I have experience in many specialities including grief/bereavement, work performance, co-dependency recovery, family conflict, foster care/ adoption, women's issues, caregiver fatigue, parenting challenges, Christian/ faith based therapy, and emotional/ mood disorders.
Depression, trauma, and uncontrollable fear/anxiety can wreak havoc on your life and make it challenging to even complete ordinary tasks. But, with a renewed perspective, problems solved, eliminated barriers, and hope I will help you identify and overcome the issues standing in your way. I offer a relaxing and safe environment where we will find a unique, personalized way to achieve your goals. I use a blend of techniques from various therapeutic approaches.
(419) 518-5272 View (419) 518-5272
Photo of Becca Moore, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becca Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Welcome! I'm Miss Becca, and I am a child therapist for kids ages 1-12, as well as kids, teens, and adults with developmental disabilities. I specialize in working with kids under 5! I also have extensive training in trauma-informed care and am trained in EMDR for treating children with trauma. Whether your child is experiencing trauma, anxiety, OCD, phobias, self-esteem difficulties, bullying, behavioral concerns, adoption/foster care concerns, LGBTQ+ concerns, or adjustment difficulties, I can't wait to meet you! I offer a family-centered approach that allows learning and healing to expand from the therapy space into the home.
Welcome! I'm Miss Becca, and I am a child therapist for kids ages 1-12, as well as kids, teens, and adults with developmental disabilities. I specialize in working with kids under 5! I also have extensive training in trauma-informed care and am trained in EMDR for treating children with trauma. Whether your child is experiencing trauma, anxiety, OCD, phobias, self-esteem difficulties, bullying, behavioral concerns, adoption/foster care concerns, LGBTQ+ concerns, or adjustment difficulties, I can't wait to meet you! I offer a family-centered approach that allows learning and healing to expand from the therapy space into the home.
(513) 998-7306 View (513) 998-7306
Photo of Jade Flowers, MA, IMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jade Flowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
Everyone feels stuck at times and unsure what to do. I believe that with the right help you can make the changes you need so that a new path can be discovered. My passion is to work along side individuals, families, adolescents, children, and parents to help create this new path. I specialize in Marriage & Family Therapy and Art Therapy. I work with those dealing with past or current trauma, family issues, youth, emotional hardships, life transitions, divorce, parenting challenges, depression, anxiety, addiction, adoption, and behavior issues just to name a few.
Everyone feels stuck at times and unsure what to do. I believe that with the right help you can make the changes you need so that a new path can be discovered. My passion is to work along side individuals, families, adolescents, children, and parents to help create this new path. I specialize in Marriage & Family Therapy and Art Therapy. I work with those dealing with past or current trauma, family issues, youth, emotional hardships, life transitions, divorce, parenting challenges, depression, anxiety, addiction, adoption, and behavior issues just to name a few.
(380) 204-9049 View (380) 204-9049
Photo of Sarah Lindsay Peterson, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 searching for advice and support, 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 searching for advice and support, 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 Beth M Shapiro, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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
Photo of Kelvette Beacham, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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
Photo of Robert J Reitman, MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
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, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Jennifer Joseph, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Joseph
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I believe human connection, understanding and empathy are the best enablers of healing. Building trust and a strong bond are crucial to the healing relationship, and I strive to provide a judgement-free place when we meet. I hold space for my clients so they feel safe experiencing difficult emotions, and always meet them where they are in the moment. I primarily work with women who are experiencing a range of symptoms, including depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, OCD, personality disorders, infertility, adoption issues, aging and more.
I believe human connection, understanding and empathy are the best enablers of healing. Building trust and a strong bond are crucial to the healing relationship, and I strive to provide a judgement-free place when we meet. I hold space for my clients so they feel safe experiencing difficult emotions, and always meet them where they are in the moment. I primarily work with women who are experiencing a range of symptoms, including depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, OCD, personality disorders, infertility, adoption issues, aging and more.
(440) 276-4436 View (440) 276-4436
Photo of Margot M Williams, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margot M Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
I have extensive experience helping clients who have experienced trauma, family separation (foster care and adoption), depression, and anxiety.
I work collaboratively with clients to assist them in developing goals that are specific to their needs. I focus on emphasizing client strengths and the use of solution focused interventions.
I have extensive experience helping clients who have experienced trauma, family separation (foster care and adoption), depression, and anxiety.
I work collaboratively with clients to assist them in developing goals that are specific to their needs. I focus on emphasizing client strengths and the use of solution focused interventions.
(216) 785-2643 View (216) 785-2643
Photo of Beth Pilous-Smith, PhD, LPCC-S, Counselor
Beth Pilous-Smith
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235  (Online Only)
While I have worked with clients with multiple therapeutic issues, I have spent many years specifically assisting clients with issues related to trauma, adoption, educational needs, attachment, divorce, parenting concerns, and mood disorders.
My name is Beth Pilous-Smith (Licensed in OHIO). As a therapist, I am passionate about empowering individuals. I aim to join you in successfully reaching your goals of repairing/resolving conflicts, lessening distress and emotional pain, solving problems, and enhancing your overall well-being. I work hard to create a safe, calm place where my clients feel supported and heard.
While I have worked with clients with multiple therapeutic issues, I have spent many years specifically assisting clients with issues related to trauma, adoption, educational needs, attachment, divorce, parenting concerns, and mood disorders.
My name is Beth Pilous-Smith (Licensed in OHIO). As a therapist, I am passionate about empowering individuals. I aim to join you in successfully reaching your goals of repairing/resolving conflicts, lessening distress and emotional pain, solving problems, and enhancing your overall well-being. I work hard to create a safe, calm place where my clients feel supported and heard.
(440) 588-8254 View (440) 588-8254
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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.