Adoption Therapists in Ohio

Photo of Janet King Davis, Psychologist in Ohio
Janet King Davis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
I especially enjoy working with families with school age children who are experiencing challenges related to high conflict divorce, adoption or other trauma-related issues. I like to combine parent guidance and support with play therapy for their child. My approach is active and engaged. I am also happy to see adolescents and adults who are going through transitions in their lives that may be causing them worry or anxiety.
I especially enjoy working with families with school age children who are experiencing challenges related to high conflict divorce, adoption or other trauma-related issues. I like to combine parent guidance and support with play therapy for their child. My approach is active and engaged. I am also happy to see adolescents and adults who are going through transitions in their lives that may be causing them worry or anxiety.
(216) 777-1606 View (216) 777-1606
Photo of Marilyn Malkin, Psychologist in Ohio
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 Monika Zoretic, Counselor in Ohio
Monika Zoretic
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43219
I am experienced helping people with eating disorders, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), trauma, and PTSD. Adoption and blended family problems are also close to my heart and I enjoy helping others in these areas. I am Star Behavioral Health Tier 2 trained and have lived the military life as a spouse of a career Marine. I work with those aged 5 and older. If you need someone who can really listen to you and help you figure out how to change your life for the better, I can help you.
I am experienced helping people with eating disorders, mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder), trauma, and PTSD. Adoption and blended family problems are also close to my heart and I enjoy helping others in these areas. I am Star Behavioral Health Tier 2 trained and have lived the military life as a spouse of a career Marine. I work with those aged 5 and older. If you need someone who can really listen to you and help you figure out how to change your life for the better, I can help you.
(614) 441-9988 View (614) 441-9988
Photo of Carla Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
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 Mallory Tedrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
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 Carol E McClure, Counselor in Ohio
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 Carol Lawrence Adoption And Trauma Therapist, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio
Carol Lawrence Adoption And Trauma Therapist
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, DARTT, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040
Adoption and Foster Care therapy includes trauma, grief, attachment and identity topics.
Looking for a counselor can be overwhelming. It's important that you feel connected with your counselor and feel safe when looking to change things in your life. I've spent my life connecting with people in a variety of settings and I"m interested in helping people as they work through difficult times or want to change something. My life is dedicated to helping families and individuals who have experienced trauma and are seeking healing. I would consider it a privilege to help.
Adoption and Foster Care therapy includes trauma, grief, attachment and identity topics.
Looking for a counselor can be overwhelming. It's important that you feel connected with your counselor and feel safe when looking to change things in your life. I've spent my life connecting with people in a variety of settings and I"m interested in helping people as they work through difficult times or want to change something. My life is dedicated to helping families and individuals who have experienced trauma and are seeking healing. I would consider it a privilege to help.
(513) 409-9432 View (513) 409-9432
Photo of Anne Marie Mangold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Anne Marie Mangold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45231
I have been the owner of Positive Pathways since 2000. I am passionate about meeting clients right where they are and journeying with them. I utilize a total acceptance approach by helping each client understand his/her needs through the language of non-violent communication. I am open to everyone and love to work with shedding new light on situations through my logical approach and unconditional positive regard.. I am a former adoptive parent and have 2 birth children. I home-school them. I specialize in adoption and attachment work. I work with Theophostic for healing of deep trauma.
I have been the owner of Positive Pathways since 2000. I am passionate about meeting clients right where they are and journeying with them. I utilize a total acceptance approach by helping each client understand his/her needs through the language of non-violent communication. I am open to everyone and love to work with shedding new light on situations through my logical approach and unconditional positive regard.. I am a former adoptive parent and have 2 birth children. I home-school them. I specialize in adoption and attachment work. I work with Theophostic for healing of deep trauma.
(513) 806-2775 View (513) 806-2775
Photo of Encomopass Adoptees, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ohio
Encomopass Adoptees
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43204
Waitlist for new clients
At Encompass Adoptees we have a passion for serving families with unique needs and specialize in working with those navigating trauma, grief, adverse childhood experiences, attachment injury, adoption/foster/kinship/donor conceived related hardships, and loss/separation from a parent due to death, divorce, or deportation. We take a person-centered approach with a focus on trauma and attachment. We work along side the client/family to start where you are, and create a plan unique to your specific needs. Regardless of where you find yourself today, we are ready to partner with anyone ready to grow and work toward change.
At Encompass Adoptees we have a passion for serving families with unique needs and specialize in working with those navigating trauma, grief, adverse childhood experiences, attachment injury, adoption/foster/kinship/donor conceived related hardships, and loss/separation from a parent due to death, divorce, or deportation. We take a person-centered approach with a focus on trauma and attachment. We work along side the client/family to start where you are, and create a plan unique to your specific needs. Regardless of where you find yourself today, we are ready to partner with anyone ready to grow and work toward change.
(614) 820-5384 View (614) 820-5384
Photo of Carla Tamplin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Carla Tamplin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Springfield, OH 45506  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
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, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
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 Amy Lomis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
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 Kristen Riekert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Kristen Riekert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Mason, OH 45040
For the past twenty years, I have worked extensively with families whose children have joined their families through foster care and adoption.
I have always liked this quote: "People who need help sometimes look a lot like people who don't need help." I am drawn to this quote and to counseling because I am a person who has lived through a storm or two. And, although your storm and mine may not look the same, I believe we all have common needs: to heal from something in our past, to overcome stress, fear and anxiety that makes us feel powerless and hopeless, or to navigate through an important relationship that is difficult.
For the past twenty years, I have worked extensively with families whose children have joined their families through foster care and adoption.
I have always liked this quote: "People who need help sometimes look a lot like people who don't need help." I am drawn to this quote and to counseling because I am a person who has lived through a storm or two. And, although your storm and mine may not look the same, I believe we all have common needs: to heal from something in our past, to overcome stress, fear and anxiety that makes us feel powerless and hopeless, or to navigate through an important relationship that is difficult.
(833) 474-0130 View (833) 474-0130
Photo of Julie H Richards, Counselor in Ohio
Julie H Richards
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
The challenges of life offer us incredible opportunities for healing and growth. Julie creates a safe space of attuned therapeutic support to explore the depths of unresolved places. As an adoptive parent who is familiar with adoption trauma, grief, and loss, Julie is able to empathically come alongside adoptive families with steadfast support and compassionate care. Julie is a passionate learner and teacher, focusing on empowering clients with deeper understanding to live a vibrant and fulfilling life with meaningful interpersonal relationships. If you have felt unsettled or conflicted, come experience making sense together.
The challenges of life offer us incredible opportunities for healing and growth. Julie creates a safe space of attuned therapeutic support to explore the depths of unresolved places. As an adoptive parent who is familiar with adoption trauma, grief, and loss, Julie is able to empathically come alongside adoptive families with steadfast support and compassionate care. Julie is a passionate learner and teacher, focusing on empowering clients with deeper understanding to live a vibrant and fulfilling life with meaningful interpersonal relationships. If you have felt unsettled or conflicted, come experience making sense together.
(614) 907-4277 View (614) 907-4277
Photo of Bridget Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
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 Beth Pilous-Smith, Counselor in Ohio
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
Photo of Melissa Kappes, Counselor in Ohio
Melissa Kappes
Counselor, MA, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mason, OH 45040
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with almost 25 years of experience in working with adolescents, adults and families. I have worked in a variety of settings, including a locked facility for juveniles, doctor offices within a hospital setting, a charter school which specialized in individualized and flexible strategies to teach the children, an adoption agency performing assessments and conducting birth parent counseling, and a community mental health center. I have been in private practice for the last 8 years.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with almost 25 years of experience in working with adolescents, adults and families. I have worked in a variety of settings, including a locked facility for juveniles, doctor offices within a hospital setting, a charter school which specialized in individualized and flexible strategies to teach the children, an adoption agency performing assessments and conducting birth parent counseling, and a community mental health center. I have been in private practice for the last 8 years.
(513) 331-7811 View (513) 331-7811
Photo of Stacy Miller, Counselor in Ohio
Stacy Miller
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43016
Waitlist for new clients
These specializations include depression, anxiety, panic, life adjustments/transitions, grief/loss, the social and emotional struggles of the academically gifted, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and adoption issues.
I have a passion for and 12 years of experience counseling clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, grief/loss, infertility issues, and life adjustments/transition. Are you at a time in your life where you need direction, hope, and a safe place? My desire is that counseling will be that safe place you are looking for.
These specializations include depression, anxiety, panic, life adjustments/transitions, grief/loss, the social and emotional struggles of the academically gifted, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and adoption issues.
I have a passion for and 12 years of experience counseling clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder, grief/loss, infertility issues, and life adjustments/transition. Are you at a time in your life where you need direction, hope, and a safe place? My desire is that counseling will be that safe place you are looking for.
(614) 344-0545 View (614) 344-0545
Photo of Rachel Tassile, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Rachel Tassile
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Canton, OH 44718
Rachel Tassile (pronouns: she/her) is an experienced licensed social worker who works with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her specialty interests include: PTSD and trauma, first-responder trauma, ADHD, autism, foster care and adoption transitions and issues, and LGBTQIA+ issues. She ensures that her treatment, which is rooted in evidence-based and trauma-informed practice, is tailored to the needs of clients.
Rachel Tassile (pronouns: she/her) is an experienced licensed social worker who works with children, adolescents, adults, and families. Her specialty interests include: PTSD and trauma, first-responder trauma, ADHD, autism, foster care and adoption transitions and issues, and LGBTQIA+ issues. She ensures that her treatment, which is rooted in evidence-based and trauma-informed practice, is tailored to the needs of clients.
(330) 915-2907 View (330) 915-2907
Photo of Aminah Brahim-Jimenez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ohio
Aminah Brahim-Jimenez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
I also have specialized experience in issues related to adoption and autism spectrum disorders.
I have a master's degree from Case Western Reserve University and I am a supervising licensed independent social worker with over 20 years of experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in many settings including hospitals, schools, childcare centers, juvenile detention centers, adolescent residential treatment facilities, and outpatient community mental health centers. I especially love working with children and their families, assisting those as young as three years of age.
I also have specialized experience in issues related to adoption and autism spectrum disorders.
I have a master's degree from Case Western Reserve University and I am a supervising licensed independent social worker with over 20 years of experience. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in many settings including hospitals, schools, childcare centers, juvenile detention centers, adolescent residential treatment facilities, and outpatient community mental health centers. I especially love working with children and their families, assisting those as young as three years of age.
(440) 389-3071 View (440) 389-3071
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.