Adoption Therapists in Butler, PA

Photo of Karla Hinis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Hinis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001  (Online Only)
I have pre-clinical experience working in adoption, foster care and juvenile court programs.
I have 1 openings available as of June 1st. I am only conducting virtual sessions with clients in Pennsylvania. If you want a laid back, non judgemental environment, please join me. Are you struggling with 'adulting?' Are you scared, stuck or frustrated? I'm ready to work! My ideal client would be an adolescent or adult prepared for healing, changing and goal setting, but wants to laugh too. My clinical special interests include: Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. I especially enjoy working with people who received a diagnosis of neurodiversity later in life. (Please be aware I do not do couples therapy or work with grief or eating disorders).
I have pre-clinical experience working in adoption, foster care and juvenile court programs.
I have 1 openings available as of June 1st. I am only conducting virtual sessions with clients in Pennsylvania. If you want a laid back, non judgemental environment, please join me. Are you struggling with 'adulting?' Are you scared, stuck or frustrated? I'm ready to work! My ideal client would be an adolescent or adult prepared for healing, changing and goal setting, but wants to laugh too. My clinical special interests include: Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. I especially enjoy working with people who received a diagnosis of neurodiversity later in life. (Please be aware I do not do couples therapy or work with grief or eating disorders).
(724) 308-5320 View (724) 308-5320
Photo of Amy Swigart, MS
Amy Swigart
MS
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001
Do you need help managing your son or daughter’s disruptive behaviors in the home, school, or community? I am internationally recognized for my knowledge and experience addressing Reactive Attachment Disorder. I provide therapy, education, and consultation for Reactive Attachment, and severe regressive behaviors such as coprophagia and fecal/urine related behaviors. I’m seasoned in working with children on trauma, anxiety, depression, Intermittent explosive disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, impulse control, and conduct disorder.
Do you need help managing your son or daughter’s disruptive behaviors in the home, school, or community? I am internationally recognized for my knowledge and experience addressing Reactive Attachment Disorder. I provide therapy, education, and consultation for Reactive Attachment, and severe regressive behaviors such as coprophagia and fecal/urine related behaviors. I’m seasoned in working with children on trauma, anxiety, depression, Intermittent explosive disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, impulse control, and conduct disorder.
(724) 256-9881 View (724) 256-9881
Photo of Barbara Byers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Byers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001  (Online Only)
Barbara Byers, LCSW. My approach to therapy involves building a relationship with the client in order to better understand and assist. I believe in understanding all areas of the client's life in order to provide them with the best experience. I work primarily from a trauma-informed perspective in order to help clients understand themselves and others. I work best with women and men between the ages of 18-45. I work best with trauma survivors and those struggling with relationships, interpersonal issues, family issues, anxiety, and depression.
Barbara Byers, LCSW. My approach to therapy involves building a relationship with the client in order to better understand and assist. I believe in understanding all areas of the client's life in order to provide them with the best experience. I work primarily from a trauma-informed perspective in order to help clients understand themselves and others. I work best with women and men between the ages of 18-45. I work best with trauma survivors and those struggling with relationships, interpersonal issues, family issues, anxiety, and depression.
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Photo of Ken Evanoski, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Evanoski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001
Are you someone who is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, or physical pain? It may be time to reach out for some help. I specialize in working with adults, late teens, those over 65, & parents who are struggling with disruptive children. I'm here to help you get some relief & to get some control back in your life.
Are you someone who is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, or physical pain? It may be time to reach out for some help. I specialize in working with adults, late teens, those over 65, & parents who are struggling with disruptive children. I'm here to help you get some relief & to get some control back in your life.
(412) 207-3934 View (412) 207-3934
Photo of Dr. John E. Neyman Jr., MA, ThD, BCPC, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. John E. Neyman Jr.
Pastoral Counselor, MA, ThD, BCPC
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001
John Neyman has been teaching families for the last 40 years. He is a Therapist/Counselor/ Behavioral Specialist and that specializes in Marriage, Depression, Anger Management, Parenting "special needs children", Addiction, Anxiety Disorders, Panic Attacks, and such. Dr. John has created The Neyman Strategy that combines Observational Science and Universal Laws that transforms lives. If you are struggling and have not found freedom perhaps The Neyman Strategy is just the program for you. If you have "anxiety problems" Call JDr. ohn Neyman. John is a member AACC.
John Neyman has been teaching families for the last 40 years. He is a Therapist/Counselor/ Behavioral Specialist and that specializes in Marriage, Depression, Anger Management, Parenting "special needs children", Addiction, Anxiety Disorders, Panic Attacks, and such. Dr. John has created The Neyman Strategy that combines Observational Science and Universal Laws that transforms lives. If you are struggling and have not found freedom perhaps The Neyman Strategy is just the program for you. If you have "anxiety problems" Call JDr. ohn Neyman. John is a member AACC.
(724) 812-5311 View (724) 812-5311
Photo of Mary Lynn Hammond, MSSA, LSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Lynn Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LSW
Verified Verified
Butler, PA 16001  (Online Only)
I believe in a strength based, client centered approach. Reaching out for help and support can be difficult. I help to establish a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, providing a safe space to be open and honest in therapy. Self-awareness and self-care are vital to an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. My goal is to foster an individual’s positive growth throughout the therapy process. Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing techniques and solution focused therapy interventions are utilized throughout therapy. Faith-based therapy is provided for anyone who desires this approach.
I believe in a strength based, client centered approach. Reaching out for help and support can be difficult. I help to establish a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, providing a safe space to be open and honest in therapy. Self-awareness and self-care are vital to an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. My goal is to foster an individual’s positive growth throughout the therapy process. Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing techniques and solution focused therapy interventions are utilized throughout therapy. Faith-based therapy is provided for anyone who desires this approach.
(724) 862-4554 View (724) 862-4554
Photo of Cristina Panaccione - Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristina Panaccione and Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Butler, PA 16001
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
Our practice is a small, down to earth setting. We strive to make our clients feel at home and connected with supportive, caring staff. We come from many walks of life and a wide range of experience. We will tailor our treatment methods to best suit your needs so that you can get out of our office and back into the life you were meant to lead! Our office is open 7 days a week with morning, afternoon and evening hours to best suit your needs.
(412) 961-9683 View (412) 961-9683
Photo of Melissa Ray, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Butler, PA 16001
Whether this is your first step in your journey of healing for yourself or your child, or you have been doing this for a while, looking for a new therapist can feel like a big step! My name is Melissa Ray, LCSW. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I love helping others using a gentle and non-judgemental approach. I am clinically trained to treat trauma in children. I also treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including TF-CBT (trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy). With parental participation, I enjoy working with kids as young as 2. I work with kids and adults of any age.
Whether this is your first step in your journey of healing for yourself or your child, or you have been doing this for a while, looking for a new therapist can feel like a big step! My name is Melissa Ray, LCSW. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I love helping others using a gentle and non-judgemental approach. I am clinically trained to treat trauma in children. I also treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including TF-CBT (trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy). With parental participation, I enjoy working with kids as young as 2. I work with kids and adults of any age.
(724) 517-7928 View (724) 517-7928

Online Therapists

Photo of Debrah Anne Cohen, MHL, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Debrah Anne Cohen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHL, MFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221  (Online Only)
Does this describe you? You're a people pleaser, wanting to make everyone happy but yourself. You feel the pain of break-ups and grief very intensely. You are fiercely independent and hate taking help from others. Being placed for adoption can reverberate through all aspects of your life. I help clients grieving the losses associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion. As an adoptee myself, I "get it". I also work with the other sides of the adoption triad: birthparents and adoptive parents.
Does this describe you? You're a people pleaser, wanting to make everyone happy but yourself. You feel the pain of break-ups and grief very intensely. You are fiercely independent and hate taking help from others. Being placed for adoption can reverberate through all aspects of your life. I help clients grieving the losses associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion. As an adoptee myself, I "get it". I also work with the other sides of the adoption triad: birthparents and adoptive parents.
(215) 544-2012 View (215) 544-2012
Photo of Lauryn Kalka, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauryn Kalka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/ adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/ adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
(412) 612-2355 View (412) 612-2355
Photo of Margaret Maxwell, MEd, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Maxwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Castle, PA 16105
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. It is important to me that my clients feel comfortable with me and they look forward to our sessions.
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. It is important to me that my clients feel comfortable with me and they look forward to our sessions.
(724) 856-0868 View (724) 856-0868
Photo of Jordan Beth Stevenson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Beth Stevenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Erie, PA 16509
Jordan’s specialties are working with children who have experienced trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, adjustment disorders, adoption, divorce, and grief and loss. This includes working with parents and families to better the entire environment for the child and family members. Jordan also works with adults who have experienced trauma, or are struggling with anxiety, depression, or grief and loss. Her experience not only allows Jordan to have a better understanding of the wide range of mental health struggles, but also of the available resources in the Erie area.
Jordan’s specialties are working with children who have experienced trauma and PTSD, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, adjustment disorders, adoption, divorce, and grief and loss. This includes working with parents and families to better the entire environment for the child and family members. Jordan also works with adults who have experienced trauma, or are struggling with anxiety, depression, or grief and loss. Her experience not only allows Jordan to have a better understanding of the wide range of mental health struggles, but also of the available resources in the Erie area.
(814) 463-2644 View (814) 463-2644
Photo of Rita Lampe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita Lampe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allison Park, PA 15101
Over the past 30 plus years of providing counseling to children/adolescents, adults, couples and families, I have offered a very safe environment for people to begin healing from relationship issues, past traumas, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, etc. I particularly work with individuals going through life transitions, healing from childhood trauma and/or abuse, divorce, adoption and addiction recovery. I utilize various therapeutic interventions, focusing on what is best for each individual. I have training in EMDR and have a trauma informed focus. I integrate mindfulness practices and somatic body work as well.
Over the past 30 plus years of providing counseling to children/adolescents, adults, couples and families, I have offered a very safe environment for people to begin healing from relationship issues, past traumas, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, etc. I particularly work with individuals going through life transitions, healing from childhood trauma and/or abuse, divorce, adoption and addiction recovery. I utilize various therapeutic interventions, focusing on what is best for each individual. I have training in EMDR and have a trauma informed focus. I integrate mindfulness practices and somatic body work as well.
(412) 455-6463 View (412) 455-6463
Photo of Barbara L Sawatis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara L Sawatis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
My experience includes attachment , special needs adoption, addiction & recovery, ACOA/codependency, trauma, women’s issues, and mood disorders.
Have you heard the phrase "If you're going through Hell, keep going”? Sometimes in our darkest moments, we need cheerleaders. We need people who recognize that what we are going through seems unbearable and that the simple act of going forward takes courage. Therapy can be the vehicle to help us move forward. When treatment is non-judgmental, supportive and encouraging, you and your therapist can make an unstoppable team. I believe that people want to be "well," but we just don't know an effective way to achieve it. Together, we can work on identifying your personal path to wellness and improved confidence in your strengths.
My experience includes attachment , special needs adoption, addiction & recovery, ACOA/codependency, trauma, women’s issues, and mood disorders.
Have you heard the phrase "If you're going through Hell, keep going”? Sometimes in our darkest moments, we need cheerleaders. We need people who recognize that what we are going through seems unbearable and that the simple act of going forward takes courage. Therapy can be the vehicle to help us move forward. When treatment is non-judgmental, supportive and encouraging, you and your therapist can make an unstoppable team. I believe that people want to be "well," but we just don't know an effective way to achieve it. Together, we can work on identifying your personal path to wellness and improved confidence in your strengths.
(878) 205-0573 View (878) 205-0573
Photo of Natasha Novikova, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natasha Novikova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or marital/family issues? I have a Masters in clinical social work from University of Pittsburgh and can guide you thru the rough transition to find more comfortable balance in your life. In my career I have worked in a variety of settings, such as crisis counseling, community mental health and adoption counseling. I have treated depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD etc in a many populations including LGBT and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. At this time I have a new private practice and am ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Call today to set up an appointment.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or marital/family issues? I have a Masters in clinical social work from University of Pittsburgh and can guide you thru the rough transition to find more comfortable balance in your life. In my career I have worked in a variety of settings, such as crisis counseling, community mental health and adoption counseling. I have treated depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD etc in a many populations including LGBT and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. At this time I have a new private practice and am ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Call today to set up an appointment.
(412) 453-4104 View (412) 453-4104
Photo of Karen M Seif, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen M Seif
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
I specialize in parenting support, young adult counseling, adoption and foster care issues, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, collaborative mental health support. They may be struggling with parenting, stress, identity issues, or LGBTQ+ concerns. They value a therapist with 30 years of diverse experience, empathy, humor, and a relational, narrative, and CBT approach. They seek a trusting therapeutic space for self-discovery, growth, and coping with life's challenges. Whether they're a caregiver, young adult, part of the adoption community, or LGBTQ+, they desire understanding, guidance, and a non-judgmental ally in their journey towards wellness and self-acceptance.
I specialize in parenting support, young adult counseling, adoption and foster care issues, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, collaborative mental health support. They may be struggling with parenting, stress, identity issues, or LGBTQ+ concerns. They value a therapist with 30 years of diverse experience, empathy, humor, and a relational, narrative, and CBT approach. They seek a trusting therapeutic space for self-discovery, growth, and coping with life's challenges. Whether they're a caregiver, young adult, part of the adoption community, or LGBTQ+, they desire understanding, guidance, and a non-judgmental ally in their journey towards wellness and self-acceptance.
(959) 210-6800 View (959) 210-6800
Photo of Erin Donnelly, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Erin Donnelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101  (Online Only)
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
(913) 370-7041 View (913) 370-7041
Photo of Joe Ritacco - The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
He enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and children in the areas of adoption and infertility.
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
He enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and children in the areas of adoption and infertility.
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
(412) 307-8865 View (412) 307-8865
Photo of Jessica Murray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murrysville, PA 15668
Waitlist for new clients
I also have significant experience both professionally and personally working with families and children impacted by adoption.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma as well as concerns related to depression, loss and grief, and anxiety. As a clinician, I hold safety as a non-negotiable imperative for the therapy space to be productive. I also encourage my clients to use the safe therapy space to lean into the discomfort required to make the changes that they wish to see in their lives.
I also have significant experience both professionally and personally working with families and children impacted by adoption.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma as well as concerns related to depression, loss and grief, and anxiety. As a clinician, I hold safety as a non-negotiable imperative for the therapy space to be productive. I also encourage my clients to use the safe therapy space to lean into the discomfort required to make the changes that they wish to see in their lives.
(724) 202-0526 View (724) 202-0526
Photo of Lauren Burling, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Burling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
I also have expertise supporting individuals and families with family planning including adoption, IUI/IVF, intentional single parenting, and foster care.
People enter therapy with me for many types of reasons at different stages of their lives. Someone may be processing a recent life transition or anticipating changes in the future. Many people have had something specific happen recently that was stressful, sudden or difficult for them. Often, people find they are struggling to cope with their emotions after many cumulative and sequential events. Sometimes, a specific relationship needs to come into focus and be healed. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to identify problem areas they would like to spend time on with the goal of finding peace and ease in their lives.
I also have expertise supporting individuals and families with family planning including adoption, IUI/IVF, intentional single parenting, and foster care.
People enter therapy with me for many types of reasons at different stages of their lives. Someone may be processing a recent life transition or anticipating changes in the future. Many people have had something specific happen recently that was stressful, sudden or difficult for them. Often, people find they are struggling to cope with their emotions after many cumulative and sequential events. Sometimes, a specific relationship needs to come into focus and be healed. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to identify problem areas they would like to spend time on with the goal of finding peace and ease in their lives.
(724) 251-8972 View (724) 251-8972
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.