Adoption Therapists in Hanover, PA

Photo of Wike Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hanover, PA
Wike Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Hanover, PA 17331
Wike Counseling Services is a group practice of Licensed Professional Counselors treating children, adolescents, and adults. Our specialities include recovery, trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, mood disorders, stress related illnesses, and child behaviors. Our goal is to empower you and help you tap into your best self. We want to help you navigate through difficult times so you can reach your full potential.
Wike Counseling Services is a group practice of Licensed Professional Counselors treating children, adolescents, and adults. Our specialities include recovery, trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, mood disorders, stress related illnesses, and child behaviors. Our goal is to empower you and help you tap into your best self. We want to help you navigate through difficult times so you can reach your full potential.
(717) 500-3618 View (717) 500-3618
Photo of Kalyani G Broderick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hanover, PA
Kalyani G Broderick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hanover, PA 17331
Life is hard enough, counseling shouldn't be! I provide warm, supportive counseling to people of all ages, both in-person and virtually. Sessions with me are peaceful and nurturing, giving you the time and space to really relax and get in touch with your natural healing capacity. I specialize in families with children under 10, including preschool and younger, offering a variety of play and art activities that help reduce stress and improve coping skills. I actively involve caregivers during sessions and with bonding activities for home.
Life is hard enough, counseling shouldn't be! I provide warm, supportive counseling to people of all ages, both in-person and virtually. Sessions with me are peaceful and nurturing, giving you the time and space to really relax and get in touch with your natural healing capacity. I specialize in families with children under 10, including preschool and younger, offering a variety of play and art activities that help reduce stress and improve coping skills. I actively involve caregivers during sessions and with bonding activities for home.
(717) 660-0761 View (717) 660-0761

Online Therapists

Photo of Kristine Moss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Kristine Moss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW , CFBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manheim, PA 17545
I have experience working with depression, ADHD, anxiety, suicidal ideation, mood disorders, trauma, identity issues, substance use disorders, LGBTQIA+, PTSD, foster and adoption, divorce, attachment, relationships, and family dynamics.
Hi! My name is Kristine Moss, and I am excited to walk this new journey with you. I am a therapist and Licensed Social Worker who is devoted to creating an emotionally safe environment for healing and self-growth. I serve both individuals and families, tailoring evidence-based treatments according to each client’s specific needs.
I have experience working with depression, ADHD, anxiety, suicidal ideation, mood disorders, trauma, identity issues, substance use disorders, LGBTQIA+, PTSD, foster and adoption, divorce, attachment, relationships, and family dynamics.
Hi! My name is Kristine Moss, and I am excited to walk this new journey with you. I am a therapist and Licensed Social Worker who is devoted to creating an emotionally safe environment for healing and self-growth. I serve both individuals and families, tailoring evidence-based treatments according to each client’s specific needs.
(223) 217-3176 View (223) 217-3176
Photo of Veronica A Greim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Veronica A Greim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morton, PA 19070
I have experience working with significant behavioral and mental health needs including but not limited to anxiety, depression, social and family difficulties, as well as involvement in foster care and adoption.
Making the decision to start therapy is the first step towards growth and change! I believe in a strengths based and individualized approach. I strive to provide a safe place for individuals to identify concerns, problematic behaviors or areas that they feel are in need of change. My focus is to help you identify your goals, and develop an ongoing therapeutic plan to help you achieve those goals.
I have experience working with significant behavioral and mental health needs including but not limited to anxiety, depression, social and family difficulties, as well as involvement in foster care and adoption.
Making the decision to start therapy is the first step towards growth and change! I believe in a strengths based and individualized approach. I strive to provide a safe place for individuals to identify concerns, problematic behaviors or areas that they feel are in need of change. My focus is to help you identify your goals, and develop an ongoing therapeutic plan to help you achieve those goals.
(484) 989-6899 View (484) 989-6899
Photo of Megan Schlude, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hanover, PA
Megan Schlude
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063
I specialize in maternal mental health and work with mothers in all stages of motherhood- infertility, mood/anxiety disorders occurring in pregnancy or postpartum, adoption, pregnancy loss, birth trauma and much more.
Are you a new mom (or even a seasoned mom!) and having difficulty within your role? Motherhood is hard. And your experience as a mother is important. I can help. I have devoted my practice to helping mothers create more satisfying, productive, and peaceful lives. I believe in the healing powers of the therapeutic relationship and work hard to foster a genuine connection with my clients. Our sessions will be interactive and collaborative. I have a great passion for 'helping people help themselves' and work in a participatory manner with my clients. I look forward to being on the journey to wellness with you.
I specialize in maternal mental health and work with mothers in all stages of motherhood- infertility, mood/anxiety disorders occurring in pregnancy or postpartum, adoption, pregnancy loss, birth trauma and much more.
Are you a new mom (or even a seasoned mom!) and having difficulty within your role? Motherhood is hard. And your experience as a mother is important. I can help. I have devoted my practice to helping mothers create more satisfying, productive, and peaceful lives. I believe in the healing powers of the therapeutic relationship and work hard to foster a genuine connection with my clients. Our sessions will be interactive and collaborative. I have a great passion for 'helping people help themselves' and work in a participatory manner with my clients. I look forward to being on the journey to wellness with you.
(484) 209-1402 View (484) 209-1402
Photo of Karen Mummau, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Karen Mummau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Salunga, PA 17538
I work with a variety of specialties which include adoption related issues, self harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, trauma and many other difficulties encountered in life.
Does it feel like chaos is all around you? Are you struggling to keep it all together? Have you tried solving the problems in your life and it's just not working? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed and not sure where to turn? Have you tried everything you can think of and still feel stuck? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain about life and how to navigate all it requires. Not addressing your feelings can lead to health difficulties, increased fatigue, and less life enjoyment. I believe there is hope.
I work with a variety of specialties which include adoption related issues, self harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, depression, anxiety, trauma and many other difficulties encountered in life.
Does it feel like chaos is all around you? Are you struggling to keep it all together? Have you tried solving the problems in your life and it's just not working? Do you feel lost and overwhelmed and not sure where to turn? Have you tried everything you can think of and still feel stuck? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious and uncertain about life and how to navigate all it requires. Not addressing your feelings can lead to health difficulties, increased fatigue, and less life enjoyment. I believe there is hope.
(717) 271-7866 View (717) 271-7866
Photo of Lea Denlinger, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hanover, PA
Lea Denlinger
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Hershey, PA 17033
My areas of specialty include trauma and PTSD, attachment concerns, grief, adoption, relationship concerns, sexual concerns, parenting, women's mental health, and spirituality.
I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome challenges, find healing, and lead meaningful and satisfying lives through the power of safe connections and therapeutic support. I welcome individuals, couples, and families into my therapy room to help them address difficult patterns and thrive in their lives.
My areas of specialty include trauma and PTSD, attachment concerns, grief, adoption, relationship concerns, sexual concerns, parenting, women's mental health, and spirituality.
I am dedicated to helping my clients overcome challenges, find healing, and lead meaningful and satisfying lives through the power of safe connections and therapeutic support. I welcome individuals, couples, and families into my therapy room to help them address difficult patterns and thrive in their lives.
(717) 423-8934 View (717) 423-8934
Photo of Debrah Anne Cohen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hanover, PA
Debrah Anne Cohen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHL, MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119  (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 Lynne A Williams, Psychologist in Hanover, PA
Lynne A Williams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kutztown, PA 19530
My experiences living in and working with people from multiple cultures and faith backgrounds help me to tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. My professional experiences range from marriage and parenting issues, mood and anxiety disorders, delinquency, veterans' issues, career selection, bereavement, trauma recovery, family violence, adoption & infertility issues, relationship problems, cross-cultural adjustment, chronic illness and pain, and the challenges of living with ADHD and other learning difficulties.
My experiences living in and working with people from multiple cultures and faith backgrounds help me to tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. My professional experiences range from marriage and parenting issues, mood and anxiety disorders, delinquency, veterans' issues, career selection, bereavement, trauma recovery, family violence, adoption & infertility issues, relationship problems, cross-cultural adjustment, chronic illness and pain, and the challenges of living with ADHD and other learning difficulties.
(484) 734-2746 View (484) 734-2746
Photo of New Journey Family Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
New Journey Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manheim, PA 17545
I have worked in various settings including foster care and adoption, in home and community services and outpatient.
Our passion for therapy is helping people of all ages discover their full potential in life and overcome obstacles. Our goal is to create a safe environment for you to turn and face the challenges you experience and identify new ways to create a meaningful life. For us, therapy is relationship and we would be honored to walk with you along your journey. We would like to offer our trainings and experiences, both professionally and personally to collaborate with you to help you reach your goals. We look forward to walking with you on this journey of healing and self-discovery!
I have worked in various settings including foster care and adoption, in home and community services and outpatient.
Our passion for therapy is helping people of all ages discover their full potential in life and overcome obstacles. Our goal is to create a safe environment for you to turn and face the challenges you experience and identify new ways to create a meaningful life. For us, therapy is relationship and we would be honored to walk with you along your journey. We would like to offer our trainings and experiences, both professionally and personally to collaborate with you to help you reach your goals. We look forward to walking with you on this journey of healing and self-discovery!
(717) 850-9573 View (717) 850-9573
Photo of Dawn Connors, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Dawn Connors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063
Welcome! I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families to help strengthen relationships, identify attachment challenges, heal from trauma, and address symptoms of depression and anxiety. I also specialize in adoption related challenges and attachment disorders. I am also a LGBTQIA competent ally interested in supporting you and/or your family.
Welcome! I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families to help strengthen relationships, identify attachment challenges, heal from trauma, and address symptoms of depression and anxiety. I also specialize in adoption related challenges and attachment disorders. I am also a LGBTQIA competent ally interested in supporting you and/or your family.
(610) 580-2477 View (610) 580-2477
Photo of Amanda Woolston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Amanda Woolston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
Parkesburg, PA 19365
My work is client-led, adoption-competent, trauma-informed, client-centered, anti-racist, accepting of all bodies, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Therapist profiles can be overwhelming. You may feel like you have to know exactly what you need in order to find a therapist that addresses it. I want you to know that helping you learn what you need is part of therapy. Maybe all you know for sure is that you are emotionally suffering and would like help. My background is working with adoption (all forms), foster care, family loss, trauma, parenting, co-dependency, and more. However, I also help folks from all walks of life reduce their emotional suffering and achieve their goals. Whatever your needs are, I'm happy to see if I can help you suffer less and enjoy life more.
My work is client-led, adoption-competent, trauma-informed, client-centered, anti-racist, accepting of all bodies, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Therapist profiles can be overwhelming. You may feel like you have to know exactly what you need in order to find a therapist that addresses it. I want you to know that helping you learn what you need is part of therapy. Maybe all you know for sure is that you are emotionally suffering and would like help. My background is working with adoption (all forms), foster care, family loss, trauma, parenting, co-dependency, and more. However, I also help folks from all walks of life reduce their emotional suffering and achieve their goals. Whatever your needs are, I'm happy to see if I can help you suffer less and enjoy life more.
(484) 218-3132 View (484) 218-3132
Photo of Jade Autumn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Jade Autumn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19128  (Online Only)
Jade is passionate about and experienced in working with youth, young adults, children and families of foster-care and/or adoption, as well as refugees and immigrants of all ages.
"I think we can all agree, life is hard! Sometimes the most honest, brave, and difficult thing we can do is reach out for support. Kudos to you for starting this courageous (and maybe scary) process! Needing support does not mean you are weak or broken, it means you are human. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel safe and comfortable bringing your whole, authentic self into our work together. I find using humor, whenever appropriate, helps to disarm fears and facades while building a trusting relationship between client and clinician.
Jade is passionate about and experienced in working with youth, young adults, children and families of foster-care and/or adoption, as well as refugees and immigrants of all ages.
"I think we can all agree, life is hard! Sometimes the most honest, brave, and difficult thing we can do is reach out for support. Kudos to you for starting this courageous (and maybe scary) process! Needing support does not mean you are weak or broken, it means you are human. My goal as a therapist is to help you feel safe and comfortable bringing your whole, authentic self into our work together. I find using humor, whenever appropriate, helps to disarm fears and facades while building a trusting relationship between client and clinician.
(610) 947-4743 View (610) 947-4743
Photo of Kala Lilani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Kala Lilani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
I also specialize in adoption issues and assist with healing core issues of loss, grief and identity.
People are confronted with challenges at various times in their life cycle. Despite their best efforts, they may feel stuck, have relational difficulties and experience feelings of confusion, sadness, anxiety, depression, isolation, alienation, anger or other unpleasant emotions.
I also specialize in adoption issues and assist with healing core issues of loss, grief and identity.
People are confronted with challenges at various times in their life cycle. Despite their best efforts, they may feel stuck, have relational difficulties and experience feelings of confusion, sadness, anxiety, depression, isolation, alienation, anger or other unpleasant emotions.
(484) 324-6786 View (484) 324-6786
Photo of Heart for Change Counseling Services, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Heart for Change Counseling Services, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17602
With different therapists having different specialties, our focus ranges on a wide variety of topics including addiction issues, adoption and foster care trauma, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, codependency, depression,, faith-based issues, grief and loss, life stress, abuse, trauma, and work-related issues.
At Heart for Change Counseling Services, we value finding darkness in the world and bringing light. We treat all people with dignity and respect, maintain an environment free from judgement, and provide a team-approach to ensure those who walk through our doors feel valued, supported, and heard. We believe in making quality services affordable regardless of insurance.
With different therapists having different specialties, our focus ranges on a wide variety of topics including addiction issues, adoption and foster care trauma, anxiety, chronic pain and illness, codependency, depression,, faith-based issues, grief and loss, life stress, abuse, trauma, and work-related issues.
At Heart for Change Counseling Services, we value finding darkness in the world and bringing light. We treat all people with dignity and respect, maintain an environment free from judgement, and provide a team-approach to ensure those who walk through our doors feel valued, supported, and heard. We believe in making quality services affordable regardless of insurance.
(717) 546-9257 View (717) 546-9257
Photo of Gina Rothermel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Gina Rothermel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19110
I have more than 20 years experience working with individuals in non-traditional families formed through foster care, adoption, blended families, and through reproductive medicine, and I understand the unique challenges these individuals and families face.
I find a lot of joy in helping teens and adults discover and reach their goals. I am skilled in helping clients increase self-esteem and self-acceptance, heal from trauma, manage depression, strengthen relationships, process grief and loss, and find the inner strength and resources to make desired changes in their lives.
I have more than 20 years experience working with individuals in non-traditional families formed through foster care, adoption, blended families, and through reproductive medicine, and I understand the unique challenges these individuals and families face.
I find a lot of joy in helping teens and adults discover and reach their goals. I am skilled in helping clients increase self-esteem and self-acceptance, heal from trauma, manage depression, strengthen relationships, process grief and loss, and find the inner strength and resources to make desired changes in their lives.
(215) 392-6879 View (215) 392-6879
Photo of Liz Anderson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hanover, PA
Liz Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Media, PA 19063
I have a strong passion for working with children and young adults experiencing changing familial dynamics, are in the foster care system, experience concerns in relation to adoption, or are struggling socially.
Have you ever felt stuck, like something will not get better? Although it is no secret that life can be painful, working collaboratively with a professional can provide you with tools, skills, and even acceptance in order to help you move through seasons of difficulty. Whether you are stuck in a life transition, feeling unable to cope, or just in need of support, you are at the right place. Through the therapeutic process, we can begin working collaboratively to help you get back on track to an overall increase of your well-being.
I have a strong passion for working with children and young adults experiencing changing familial dynamics, are in the foster care system, experience concerns in relation to adoption, or are struggling socially.
Have you ever felt stuck, like something will not get better? Although it is no secret that life can be painful, working collaboratively with a professional can provide you with tools, skills, and even acceptance in order to help you move through seasons of difficulty. Whether you are stuck in a life transition, feeling unable to cope, or just in need of support, you are at the right place. Through the therapeutic process, we can begin working collaboratively to help you get back on track to an overall increase of your well-being.
(610) 298-0152 View (610) 298-0152
Photo of Patience Buckwalter, Counselor in Hanover, PA
Patience Buckwalter
Counselor, LSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
I strive to provide a welcoming and peaceful My areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem, Adoption & Newcomers.
Dealing with our mental health can be a challenging experience for many of us. It is sometimes helpful to have someone available to offer support and guidance to help create a plan that works for you and to get your wonderful self back! The goal is to have you be able to have control of your life again and feel happy, motivated and at peace! As your counselor I will help you process your own personal journey!
I strive to provide a welcoming and peaceful My areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Life Transitions, Self-Esteem, Adoption & Newcomers.
Dealing with our mental health can be a challenging experience for many of us. It is sometimes helpful to have someone available to offer support and guidance to help create a plan that works for you and to get your wonderful self back! The goal is to have you be able to have control of your life again and feel happy, motivated and at peace! As your counselor I will help you process your own personal journey!
(717) 229-9641 View (717) 229-9641
Photo of Sally Cranney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hanover, PA
Sally Cranney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031
As an experienced psychotherapist for over 20 years, I have helped people with a variety of problems, including relationship issues, work and school-related stress, adult-child and parent issues, eating disorders, post-adoption stress, and young adult life transitions. My style is warm and accepting, and my work addresses each individual's unique experiences as related to cultural background, environment, and family of origin history.
As an experienced psychotherapist for over 20 years, I have helped people with a variety of problems, including relationship issues, work and school-related stress, adult-child and parent issues, eating disorders, post-adoption stress, and young adult life transitions. My style is warm and accepting, and my work addresses each individual's unique experiences as related to cultural background, environment, and family of origin history.
(610) 756-2806 View (610) 756-2806
Photo of Elizabeth R. Weisman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hanover, PA
Elizabeth R. Weisman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Areas of focus include: OCD, PTSD, trauma, Addiction & Recovery, LGBTQ, Special Needs Parenting, PANS / PANDAS, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), Grief & Loss, Adoption, Relationship issues, Chronic and severe mental illness, and Mind-body Wellness.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
Areas of focus include: OCD, PTSD, trauma, Addiction & Recovery, LGBTQ, Special Needs Parenting, PANS / PANDAS, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), Grief & Loss, Adoption, Relationship issues, Chronic and severe mental illness, and Mind-body Wellness.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
(267) 202-4386 View (267) 202-4386
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.