Adoption Therapists in Lima, PA

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Photo of Stephanie Marie Oyler, MSW, LSW, CT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Marie Oyler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
I work with all individuals, children and youth, families and groups. I have a special love for working with pre-teens into early adulthood as well as adoptees (all ages), fosterees (all ages) and former foster youth. I am specialized in foster care, adoption, reunification, those who have experienced childhood institution (Hospitalizations and Residential Treatment Facilities) and parent-child attachment. I also specialize in racial trauma, institutional racism, Grief/Loss and identity.
I work with all individuals, children and youth, families and groups. I have a special love for working with pre-teens into early adulthood as well as adoptees (all ages), fosterees (all ages) and former foster youth. I am specialized in foster care, adoption, reunification, those who have experienced childhood institution (Hospitalizations and Residential Treatment Facilities) and parent-child attachment. I also specialize in racial trauma, institutional racism, Grief/Loss and identity.
(484) 669-8494 View (484) 669-8494
Photo of Dawn Connors, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Samantha Ambrico-Custer, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Ambrico-Custer
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, PA 19382
I bring a wealth of experience supporting neurodiverse clients and their families, those who are a part of the foster care/ adoption community, identity formation/exploration, and more.
Embarking on a journey towards mental well-being takes both vulnerability and courage. Therapy is a sacred space, a place of transformation, where vulnerability transforms into strength, and courage takes the helm of your healing journey. As your partner in progress, I would be honored to walk alongside you and support you as you navigate life's challenges and discover the strength within you. My passion lies in supporting individuals living with chronic illnesses and disabilities, neurodiversity, and adoption/foster care.
I bring a wealth of experience supporting neurodiverse clients and their families, those who are a part of the foster care/ adoption community, identity formation/exploration, and more.
Embarking on a journey towards mental well-being takes both vulnerability and courage. Therapy is a sacred space, a place of transformation, where vulnerability transforms into strength, and courage takes the helm of your healing journey. As your partner in progress, I would be honored to walk alongside you and support you as you navigate life's challenges and discover the strength within you. My passion lies in supporting individuals living with chronic illnesses and disabilities, neurodiversity, and adoption/foster care.
(484) 309-0709 View (484) 309-0709
Photo of Amanda Woolston, MSS, LCSW, CT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Woolston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CT
Verified Verified
Berwyn, PA 19312
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 Megan Schlude, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
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.
Motherhood is hard, and oftentimes a role that receives very little support. Do you feel alone in trying to figure out how to mother? Do you wish you could feel more confident in this role? 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 this journey 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.
Motherhood is hard, and oftentimes a role that receives very little support. Do you feel alone in trying to figure out how to mother? Do you wish you could feel more confident in this role? 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 this journey with you.
(484) 209-1402 View (484) 209-1402
Photo of Liz Anderson, MA, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Liz Anderson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAPC
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 Laura Lowman, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Lowman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Media, PA 19063
I specialize in complex and developmental trauma, loss, abuse, adoption/foster care, fertility issues, depression and anxiety.
Therapy can be an exciting and rewarding journey, although challenging at times. I am available to help as you explore therapy and changes in your life. I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist with 30 years of experience. I have received extensive training in sandtray and play therapy. Additionally, I trained in advanced contextual family therapy for over 25 years. I provide individual, family, couples, and play therapy. As a registered play therapist, I am trained to work with children as young as age 4. However, I work with all age groups.
I specialize in complex and developmental trauma, loss, abuse, adoption/foster care, fertility issues, depression and anxiety.
Therapy can be an exciting and rewarding journey, although challenging at times. I am available to help as you explore therapy and changes in your life. I am a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist with 30 years of experience. I have received extensive training in sandtray and play therapy. Additionally, I trained in advanced contextual family therapy for over 25 years. I provide individual, family, couples, and play therapy. As a registered play therapist, I am trained to work with children as young as age 4. However, I work with all age groups.
(215) 995-5194 View (215) 995-5194
Photo of Irene Feigin, MA, Psychologist
Irene Feigin
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Drexel Hill, PA 19026
I presented internationally and domestically on both psychological issues of immigration and international adoption.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and I have been treating clients in private practice for the past 10 years in Philadelphia. I work with adults, children and families. I support my clients and help them learn how to cope with and overcome personal challenges, build inner strength and develop self-confidence. I create therapeutic atmosphere of respect, safety, and trust. I help my clients to recognize, discover and develop their own resources. I listen and take interest in each client. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
I presented internationally and domestically on both psychological issues of immigration and international adoption.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and I have been treating clients in private practice for the past 10 years in Philadelphia. I work with adults, children and families. I support my clients and help them learn how to cope with and overcome personal challenges, build inner strength and develop self-confidence. I create therapeutic atmosphere of respect, safety, and trust. I help my clients to recognize, discover and develop their own resources. I listen and take interest in each client. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
(215) 874-7287 View (215) 874-7287
Photo of Veronica A Greim, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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 Alyson Nowell - Alyson Nowell, LCSW, RPTs, LCSW, RPTs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyson Nowell, LCSW, RPTs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPTs
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063
Additional areas of expertise include the following: children and families struggling with issues related to divorce, behavioral issues, ADHD, anxiety, adoption/ attachment issues, and self harming behaviors.
Life is full of challenges when raising children. Finding a therapist for yourself or your child can be equally confusing. I can help you to untangle and heal some of the obstacles that that may be getting in the way of a more conflict free and fulfilling family life. My work incorporates Family Therapy, Parent Coaching, Child Centered Play Therapy, Sand Play Therapy, and parenting support/education. I work with children as young as 3, teens, families and individuals. Additionally, I incorporate teaching children, parents, and teens mindfulness based ways of reducing anxiety, worries, fears, and anger issues.
Additional areas of expertise include the following: children and families struggling with issues related to divorce, behavioral issues, ADHD, anxiety, adoption/ attachment issues, and self harming behaviors.
Life is full of challenges when raising children. Finding a therapist for yourself or your child can be equally confusing. I can help you to untangle and heal some of the obstacles that that may be getting in the way of a more conflict free and fulfilling family life. My work incorporates Family Therapy, Parent Coaching, Child Centered Play Therapy, Sand Play Therapy, and parenting support/education. I work with children as young as 3, teens, families and individuals. Additionally, I incorporate teaching children, parents, and teens mindfulness based ways of reducing anxiety, worries, fears, and anger issues.
(610) 557-0216 View (610) 557-0216
Photo of Jill M Taylor, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill M Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Chester, PA 19382  (Online Only)
I have experience working with severe mental health diagnoses, childhood abuse and neglect, foster care, and adoption.
I am a strengths based clinician who feels strongly that with the right support anything is possible. In session, I want to determine where you are, and how I can help you get where you are going. My client focus is children, adolescents, and families. I began my work in the field focused on women's issues, domestic violence, and the road from victim to survivor. For the last 16 years I have worked with adults, youth and families providing individual and family therapy.
I have experience working with severe mental health diagnoses, childhood abuse and neglect, foster care, and adoption.
I am a strengths based clinician who feels strongly that with the right support anything is possible. In session, I want to determine where you are, and how I can help you get where you are going. My client focus is children, adolescents, and families. I began my work in the field focused on women's issues, domestic violence, and the road from victim to survivor. For the last 16 years I have worked with adults, youth and families providing individual and family therapy.
(610) 595-9768 View (610) 595-9768
Photo of Anne Unterkoefler - Anne Unterkoefler LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Unterkoefler LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, PA 19312
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked at an adoption agency which increased my knowledge of adoption related issues for the adoptee and their families.
As a therapist for 25+ years, I believe it is important to recognize a person's strengths to help them deal with emotional difficulties when they occur. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and the elderly to enhance their coping skills, so they have a variety of options to deal with their life stresses. I enjoy working in collaboration with people of all ages and diagnoses to achieve their mental health goals. Being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy I have a wealth of knowledge in teaching coping skills to help a wide variety of diagnoses.
I have worked at an adoption agency which increased my knowledge of adoption related issues for the adoptee and their families.
As a therapist for 25+ years, I believe it is important to recognize a person's strengths to help them deal with emotional difficulties when they occur. I work with children, adolescents, adults, families and the elderly to enhance their coping skills, so they have a variety of options to deal with their life stresses. I enjoy working in collaboration with people of all ages and diagnoses to achieve their mental health goals. Being trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy I have a wealth of knowledge in teaching coping skills to help a wide variety of diagnoses.
(484) 350-5345 View (484) 350-5345
Photo of Jessica Taylor, MS, LMFT, ADHD-CC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paoli, PA 19301
I am a child, adolescent and family therapist and I am devoted to counseling children, adolescents, and their caregivers in individual and family therapy. I have a broad base of experience helping children and their families address emotional and behavioral issues, including issues associated with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as environmental stresses such as bullying, relationship strain, divorce, single/blended families, and adoption.
I am a child, adolescent and family therapist and I am devoted to counseling children, adolescents, and their caregivers in individual and family therapy. I have a broad base of experience helping children and their families address emotional and behavioral issues, including issues associated with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as environmental stresses such as bullying, relationship strain, divorce, single/blended families, and adoption.
(610) 854-8204 View (610) 854-8204
Photo of Janet D Thurston - Janet Thurston, MA, MS, MS, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Janet Thurston, MA, MS
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MA
Verified Verified
Upper Darby, PA 19082  (Online Only)
Sometimes we experience life's hardships, and do not know how to face them. Instead, we avoid talking or thinking about them. Traumas may occur in our childhood, in our relationships, or during significant losses. Unfortunately, the effects of past experiences are felt in current relationships, on the job, or in the body. In order to move forward in our lives, I believe that gradually telling the story of painful life events with a professional is healing. Once you have gradually told me about your pain, we can then work together to develop ways of coping and moving forward.
Sometimes we experience life's hardships, and do not know how to face them. Instead, we avoid talking or thinking about them. Traumas may occur in our childhood, in our relationships, or during significant losses. Unfortunately, the effects of past experiences are felt in current relationships, on the job, or in the body. In order to move forward in our lives, I believe that gradually telling the story of painful life events with a professional is healing. Once you have gradually told me about your pain, we can then work together to develop ways of coping and moving forward.
(484) 232-5403 View (484) 232-5403
Photo of Lydia Debiase, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Debiase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
Life is a journey and on our journey we will experience love, joy, and happiness. We will also encounter pain, loss, suffering and hardship. As a licensed clinical social worker I offer a safe space where you can safely talk about your experiences and feelings. I want to help you trust your own intuition as you talk about your life and make decisions about the direction of it. I am accepting, caring, and supportive. I believe in cultural humility which allows the individual to teach me about their self identity to include their ethnicity, spirituality, sexual identity, and other aspects of their cultural.
Life is a journey and on our journey we will experience love, joy, and happiness. We will also encounter pain, loss, suffering and hardship. As a licensed clinical social worker I offer a safe space where you can safely talk about your experiences and feelings. I want to help you trust your own intuition as you talk about your life and make decisions about the direction of it. I am accepting, caring, and supportive. I believe in cultural humility which allows the individual to teach me about their self identity to include their ethnicity, spirituality, sexual identity, and other aspects of their cultural.
(610) 365-4436 View (610) 365-4436
Photo of Lunden Abelson, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lunden Abelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Broomall, PA 19008
Therapy can help you reach your full potential. Seeds of Potential offers a variety of services for individuals, couples, families and groups to support the individual growth of each person, while recognizing that we are all part of a community. The creative programs along side traditional verbal therapy provides opportunities to meet your individual needs. Seeds of Potential is built on the belief that personal growth and self awareness are essential for mental health. When individuals are healthy, relationships function better, family systems operate with more ease and our communities are more cohesive.
Therapy can help you reach your full potential. Seeds of Potential offers a variety of services for individuals, couples, families and groups to support the individual growth of each person, while recognizing that we are all part of a community. The creative programs along side traditional verbal therapy provides opportunities to meet your individual needs. Seeds of Potential is built on the belief that personal growth and self awareness are essential for mental health. When individuals are healthy, relationships function better, family systems operate with more ease and our communities are more cohesive.
(267) 296-9278 View (267) 296-9278
Photo of Terry Sturmer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terry Sturmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Broomall, PA 19008
Welcome to my practice - Passion Flowers LLC! Are you struggling? Unsure of what you are feeling? Afraid to reach out? Feeling isolated and alone? I applaud your courage and strength as you search for a path to wellness and wellbeing. My clients face deeply personal losses and traumas, recent or in the past. I understand their feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, confusion, and sadness. I offer my clients a variety of healing techniques that include talk and trauma focused therapies, guided imagery and parts work. Together, we work to heal and resolve problems and challenges with new skills and abilities.
Welcome to my practice - Passion Flowers LLC! Are you struggling? Unsure of what you are feeling? Afraid to reach out? Feeling isolated and alone? I applaud your courage and strength as you search for a path to wellness and wellbeing. My clients face deeply personal losses and traumas, recent or in the past. I understand their feelings of anxiety, depression, fear, confusion, and sadness. I offer my clients a variety of healing techniques that include talk and trauma focused therapies, guided imagery and parts work. Together, we work to heal and resolve problems and challenges with new skills and abilities.
(610) 686-7772 View (610) 686-7772
Photo of Michelle Clemmer (Healing Families Llc), LPC, RPT, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Clemmer (Healing Families Llc)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, MEd
Verified Verified
Springfield, PA 19064
Do you have a child or teenager that you are worried about? Have they exhibited behaviors that are getting them into trouble? Children, like adults, need to learn healthy coping skills to manage the stressors of today's world. Issues such as divorce, loss of a loved one, school and peer pressures can be challenging for families particularly during the uncertainty of a global pandemic. As a registered play therapist, I work within the context of family therapy to provide a safe space for children to address their deep emotions while providing support and education to parents so they can continue the healing process at home.
Do you have a child or teenager that you are worried about? Have they exhibited behaviors that are getting them into trouble? Children, like adults, need to learn healthy coping skills to manage the stressors of today's world. Issues such as divorce, loss of a loved one, school and peer pressures can be challenging for families particularly during the uncertainty of a global pandemic. As a registered play therapist, I work within the context of family therapy to provide a safe space for children to address their deep emotions while providing support and education to parents so they can continue the healing process at home.
(484) 572-4577 View (484) 572-4577
Photo of Mike Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063
For most people taking the step to start working on therapeutic goals can be intimidating. I pride myself in utilizing a collaborative approach to treatment that meets clients where they are while also celebrating the progress they make along the way. I firmly believe that within each person lies the key to improving their own mental wellbeing. I help clients find strength within themselves by unearthing their personal key and then apply it to their life. As a therapist and supervisor I focus on family, couples and children's therapy, especially working with neurodivergence and the full autism spectrum using evidence-based models.
For most people taking the step to start working on therapeutic goals can be intimidating. I pride myself in utilizing a collaborative approach to treatment that meets clients where they are while also celebrating the progress they make along the way. I firmly believe that within each person lies the key to improving their own mental wellbeing. I help clients find strength within themselves by unearthing their personal key and then apply it to their life. As a therapist and supervisor I focus on family, couples and children's therapy, especially working with neurodivergence and the full autism spectrum using evidence-based models.
(610) 679-8011 View (610) 679-8011
Photo of Mike Evers, MA, LMHC, LPC
Mike Evers
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Do you feel "I'm not good enough?" Are you a man struggling with anxiety, low self esteem, or feeling lost in your identity? The pressures & societal expectations can be overwhelming, but as a man you don’t have to face them alone. With a compassionate & understanding approach, I am committed to helping men, like yourself, rediscover your strength, build self-esteem, and find a renewed sense of purpose. Whether you struggle with managing anger, having to deal with significant relationship issues, or coping with severe depression or grief; together, we can work towards a future where you feel confident, balanced, & fully yourself.
Do you feel "I'm not good enough?" Are you a man struggling with anxiety, low self esteem, or feeling lost in your identity? The pressures & societal expectations can be overwhelming, but as a man you don’t have to face them alone. With a compassionate & understanding approach, I am committed to helping men, like yourself, rediscover your strength, build self-esteem, and find a renewed sense of purpose. Whether you struggle with managing anger, having to deal with significant relationship issues, or coping with severe depression or grief; together, we can work towards a future where you feel confident, balanced, & fully yourself.
(646) 490-0425 View (646) 490-0425

See more therapy options for Lima

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.