Therapists in Lords Valley, PA

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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Pennsylvania below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Thaxton Wellness Center & Counseling Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lords Valley, PA
Thaxton Wellness Center & Counseling Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hawley, PA 18428
You can reach us at 570-904-7363 and get to know our therapists at thaxtonholisticwellness.com. At THWC it is our mission to create a soothing, client-focused, healing-centered environment, committed and focused on you as a whole person. With over 75 years of combined experience, our skilled and compassionate therapists offer virtual and in-person individual, couple, family, and group counseling services for all ages and concerns. Supported by years of experience and training, we will work with you to develop specific, tailored strategies, using effective approaches to help you quickly achieve and sustain results.
You can reach us at 570-904-7363 and get to know our therapists at thaxtonholisticwellness.com. At THWC it is our mission to create a soothing, client-focused, healing-centered environment, committed and focused on you as a whole person. With over 75 years of combined experience, our skilled and compassionate therapists offer virtual and in-person individual, couple, family, and group counseling services for all ages and concerns. Supported by years of experience and training, we will work with you to develop specific, tailored strategies, using effective approaches to help you quickly achieve and sustain results.
(272) 200-4675 View (272) 200-4675
Photo of Better Together Counseling & Wellness LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lords Valley, PA
Better Together Counseling & Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Honesdale, PA 18431
The primary focus of this practice will be in filling the mental health needs for children, teens, and adults. In person or virtual sessions are available. Couples counseling is not being offered at this time. (My office is in historic home in Honesdale and I am located on the second floor. Unfortunately I do not have an elevator. Please keep this in mind if you have any mobility issues, but I want to be transparent about this limitation. I apologize for any inconvenience.)
The primary focus of this practice will be in filling the mental health needs for children, teens, and adults. In person or virtual sessions are available. Couples counseling is not being offered at this time. (My office is in historic home in Honesdale and I am located on the second floor. Unfortunately I do not have an elevator. Please keep this in mind if you have any mobility issues, but I want to be transparent about this limitation. I apologize for any inconvenience.)
(272) 359-8694 View (272) 359-8694

Online Therapists

Photo of Teena Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lords Valley, PA
Teena Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18512  (Online Only)
My vision as a therapist is to help adolescents, adults, couples and families recognize that they have what it takes to promote their own evolution. Growth and change can be a challenge at times. My role is to support others to work towards their healing holistically; I help them to unpack the pain that exists and recognize the impact on their mind, body, spirit and relationships. t is my intention to break down barriers in areas related to relationships,divorce,infidelity, blending families, adoption, anxiety, depression, and racial inequity in such a way that my clients feel more connected to their own sense of purpose & value.
My vision as a therapist is to help adolescents, adults, couples and families recognize that they have what it takes to promote their own evolution. Growth and change can be a challenge at times. My role is to support others to work towards their healing holistically; I help them to unpack the pain that exists and recognize the impact on their mind, body, spirit and relationships. t is my intention to break down barriers in areas related to relationships,divorce,infidelity, blending families, adoption, anxiety, depression, and racial inequity in such a way that my clients feel more connected to their own sense of purpose & value.
(484) 205-9678 View (484) 205-9678
Photo of Mary Beth Hadley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lords Valley, PA
Mary Beth Hadley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reading, PA 19609
My name is Mary Beth Hadley and I’ve been working in mental health/social services for a long time! Past experience includes work in psychiatric hospitals, foster care and adoption, individual and family therapy, grief, loss, depression, anxiety and trauma and most recently, counseling in a public school. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I realize that a relaxed, safe environment is of utmost importance. This involves tuning into and identifying feelings and strengths for a successful outcome in therapy that involves collaboration. It's a privilege to walk alongside people of all ages!
My name is Mary Beth Hadley and I’ve been working in mental health/social services for a long time! Past experience includes work in psychiatric hospitals, foster care and adoption, individual and family therapy, grief, loss, depression, anxiety and trauma and most recently, counseling in a public school. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I realize that a relaxed, safe environment is of utmost importance. This involves tuning into and identifying feelings and strengths for a successful outcome in therapy that involves collaboration. It's a privilege to walk alongside people of all ages!
(610) 904-9625 View (610) 904-9625
Photo of Karen M Palonis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lords Valley, PA
Karen M Palonis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18503
My experience includes working in residential treatment facilities, therapeutic foster care and adoption agencies, schools, community mental health agencies, and educational programs.
Everyday life often brings about many joys but also presents us with many obstacles, challenges, and disappointments that sometimes feel unbearable and lead us feeling overwhelmed, sad, and hopeless. The way we think and process these events lead to how we feel about ourselves in relation to the world. I use a cognitive behavioral approach to treat disorders related to anxiety, depression, grief, anger, obsessions, and compulsions. I assist individuals with developing the tools and skills necessary to make cognitive and behavioral changes that can open doors of opportunity for change, growth and personal fulfillment.
My experience includes working in residential treatment facilities, therapeutic foster care and adoption agencies, schools, community mental health agencies, and educational programs.
Everyday life often brings about many joys but also presents us with many obstacles, challenges, and disappointments that sometimes feel unbearable and lead us feeling overwhelmed, sad, and hopeless. The way we think and process these events lead to how we feel about ourselves in relation to the world. I use a cognitive behavioral approach to treat disorders related to anxiety, depression, grief, anger, obsessions, and compulsions. I assist individuals with developing the tools and skills necessary to make cognitive and behavioral changes that can open doors of opportunity for change, growth and personal fulfillment.
(570) 647-4273 View (570) 647-4273
Photo of Tiffany Jolly Jacob, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lords Valley, PA
Tiffany Jolly Jacob
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BSL, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18020
Throughout the years I've found opportunities to work with various populations ranging in ages, diagnoses, goals, & approaches. I have extensive experience working with children & adolescents on the autism spectrum, as well as with parents to teach skills to manage behavioral issues. I also do family counseling, including with families & adoption. I work with with children & adolescents with trauma, anxiety, & behavioral issues (oppositional defiant disorder, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, & reactive attachment disorder). I have experience working with the female population struggling with drug/alcohol addiction, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, andd mood difficulties.
Throughout the years I've found opportunities to work with various populations ranging in ages, diagnoses, goals, & approaches. I have extensive experience working with children & adolescents on the autism spectrum, as well as with parents to teach skills to manage behavioral issues. I also do family counseling, including with families & adoption. I work with with children & adolescents with trauma, anxiety, & behavioral issues (oppositional defiant disorder, intermittent explosive disorder, ADHD, & reactive attachment disorder). I have experience working with the female population struggling with drug/alcohol addiction, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, andd mood difficulties.
(631) 593-4482 View (631) 593-4482
Photo of Jade Autumn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lords Valley, 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 Elizabeth R. Weisman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lords Valley, 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
Photo of Susan V. Brewer, Counselor/Life Coach in Lords Valley, PA
Susan V. Brewer
Counselor/Life Coach, BS, CADC, CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sellersville, PA 18960
Focus is on grief and loss, relationship patterns, self-worth, and adoption.
WELCOME TO LIVING A LIFE OF BALANCE All of us face struggles in our lives. We experience problems and difficulties sometimes on a daily basis and other times only occasionally. When we feel stuck we have a tendency to repeat negative or self-defeating patterns/behaviors. This repetition often causes us to become overly critical of ourselves. Our work together is designed to help you to understand the why and how so that you can make the changes you want in your life. Change is never easy; however it is so worth it!! You will be pleasantly surprised by how happy you will become.
Focus is on grief and loss, relationship patterns, self-worth, and adoption.
WELCOME TO LIVING A LIFE OF BALANCE All of us face struggles in our lives. We experience problems and difficulties sometimes on a daily basis and other times only occasionally. When we feel stuck we have a tendency to repeat negative or self-defeating patterns/behaviors. This repetition often causes us to become overly critical of ourselves. Our work together is designed to help you to understand the why and how so that you can make the changes you want in your life. Change is never easy; however it is so worth it!! You will be pleasantly surprised by how happy you will become.
(215) 297-4277 View (215) 297-4277
Photo of Heather Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lords Valley, PA
Heather Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18104
I treat many presenting issues and have specialties in anxiety, foster care, adoption and parenting.
I look forward to helping you meet your personal goals. As each person is unique, I tailor my counseling approach to your needs, while providing a safe, caring, and accepting environment. Whether you are new to counseling or have had counseling in the past but were unable to achieve your goals, let’s work together so you can be the best version of you. If your child or teen is struggling due to Covid-19 or other issues, let’s partner to teach them the skills they need to be successful.
I treat many presenting issues and have specialties in anxiety, foster care, adoption and parenting.
I look forward to helping you meet your personal goals. As each person is unique, I tailor my counseling approach to your needs, while providing a safe, caring, and accepting environment. Whether you are new to counseling or have had counseling in the past but were unable to achieve your goals, let’s work together so you can be the best version of you. If your child or teen is struggling due to Covid-19 or other issues, let’s partner to teach them the skills they need to be successful.
(610) 998-3559 View (610) 998-3559
Photo of Lisa J Taylor, Psychologist in Lords Valley, PA
Lisa J Taylor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Richboro, PA 18954
Here are just some examples of challenges we can work on together: pregnancy, postpartum depression, children’s behavior issues, coparenting, blending families, raising grandchildren, resolving differences of parenting style between partners, sibling issues, new baby, coping with death or illness in the family, infertility, managing discipline, and adoption.
It is such a struggle to manage the many demands of family life today. Peace and joy in the home can feel completely out of reach. As a psychologist and parent/family coach, I am here to encourage you not to give up hope that you can reclaim the joy in your family. In addition to providing in-person services in Bucks County, PA, I offer both online therapy and parenting consultation to families in most U.S. states and territories (please see below). In my 18 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all compositions, I have been able to observe firsthand the changes that can lead to lasting results.
Here are just some examples of challenges we can work on together: pregnancy, postpartum depression, children’s behavior issues, coparenting, blending families, raising grandchildren, resolving differences of parenting style between partners, sibling issues, new baby, coping with death or illness in the family, infertility, managing discipline, and adoption.
It is such a struggle to manage the many demands of family life today. Peace and joy in the home can feel completely out of reach. As a psychologist and parent/family coach, I am here to encourage you not to give up hope that you can reclaim the joy in your family. In addition to providing in-person services in Bucks County, PA, I offer both online therapy and parenting consultation to families in most U.S. states and territories (please see below). In my 18 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families of all compositions, I have been able to observe firsthand the changes that can lead to lasting results.
(267) 459-3703 View (267) 459-3703
Photo of Gina Weidow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lords Valley, PA
Gina Weidow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forty Fort, PA 18704
I provide counseling to individuals from teenagers to the elderly. My passion is to empower others to grow their self-worth, organize their thoughts and lives, increase insight and awareness, and focus on healthy solutions. I blend Cognitive Behavioral, Person-Centered, and Reality therapies so that clients can be more well-rounded, work through their emotions, and attain practical goals. My areas of focus are adoption/ fostering, anxiety, depression, family counseling, infertility, life transitions, and relationship issues.
I provide counseling to individuals from teenagers to the elderly. My passion is to empower others to grow their self-worth, organize their thoughts and lives, increase insight and awareness, and focus on healthy solutions. I blend Cognitive Behavioral, Person-Centered, and Reality therapies so that clients can be more well-rounded, work through their emotions, and attain practical goals. My areas of focus are adoption/ fostering, anxiety, depression, family counseling, infertility, life transitions, and relationship issues.
(570) 968-8115 View (570) 968-8115
Photo of Julia Ruane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lords Valley, PA
Julia Ruane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Glenside, PA 19038  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Julia. I specialize and am certified in perinatal mental health. I work with clients through the unpredictability of trying to start a family, including adoption and fertility issues. I support families who are facing the pain of pregnancy loss, or dealing with the aftermath of birth trauma. I treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders that arise during pregnancy and/or the postpartum period. I provide a skilled perspective to help clients learn how to ride the waves of this delicate and vulnerable time.
Hi! I'm Julia. I specialize and am certified in perinatal mental health. I work with clients through the unpredictability of trying to start a family, including adoption and fertility issues. I support families who are facing the pain of pregnancy loss, or dealing with the aftermath of birth trauma. I treat perinatal mood and anxiety disorders that arise during pregnancy and/or the postpartum period. I provide a skilled perspective to help clients learn how to ride the waves of this delicate and vulnerable time.
(215) 999-7062 View (215) 999-7062
Photo of Krista McDemus, Counselor in Lords Valley, PA
Krista McDemus
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
I am comfortable addressing issues related to adoption, anxiety, depression, parenting and past trauma while maintaining a compassionate, strength-based approach.
Update 4/2024: Specializing in female clients. Are you experiencing high amounts of stress coupled with low amounts of support? Do you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk or feeling discouraged and overwhelmed? I can help you develop tools to manage anxiety, depression and improve your relationships. As a trauma-informed therapist, I utilize my experience to help my clients understand and process trauma to build resilience.
I am comfortable addressing issues related to adoption, anxiety, depression, parenting and past trauma while maintaining a compassionate, strength-based approach.
Update 4/2024: Specializing in female clients. Are you experiencing high amounts of stress coupled with low amounts of support? Do you catch yourself engaging in negative self-talk or feeling discouraged and overwhelmed? I can help you develop tools to manage anxiety, depression and improve your relationships. As a trauma-informed therapist, I utilize my experience to help my clients understand and process trauma to build resilience.
(267) 263-7146 View (267) 263-7146
Photo of Debrah Anne Cohen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lords Valley, 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 Kellie Pizzuto, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lords Valley, PA
Kellie Pizzuto
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomsburg, PA 17815
Welcome! I count it a privilege to walk alongside others on their journey to healing and wellness. Working with you to resolve the issues that keep you stuck, in pain, and/or unable to move forward is important to me. I have a passion to help others reach their full potential in growing toward the person they desire to be. This passion comes from my own story and the journey toward wholeness. Emotional pain can keep us stuck in patterns we would like to change but do not know how. If there is an issue holding you back from having the life you desire I can help.
Welcome! I count it a privilege to walk alongside others on their journey to healing and wellness. Working with you to resolve the issues that keep you stuck, in pain, and/or unable to move forward is important to me. I have a passion to help others reach their full potential in growing toward the person they desire to be. This passion comes from my own story and the journey toward wholeness. Emotional pain can keep us stuck in patterns we would like to change but do not know how. If there is an issue holding you back from having the life you desire I can help.
(570) 261-8159 View (570) 261-8159
Photo of Fred Bernard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lords Valley, PA
Fred Bernard
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I specialize in treating clients with depression, anxiety, autism, stress-induced medical problems, and schizophrenia. I have also worked with people with mood and personality disorders, substance use concerns, and extensive histories of trauma. My work with this wide range of clients has convinced me that all behaviors, symptoms (including many medical symptoms), thoughts, and feelings- no matter how distressing they can be or how puzzling they may appear to others and even oneself- are rich in meanings that can be explored and understood. I believe that therapy is a healing process through which such an exploration takes place.
I specialize in treating clients with depression, anxiety, autism, stress-induced medical problems, and schizophrenia. I have also worked with people with mood and personality disorders, substance use concerns, and extensive histories of trauma. My work with this wide range of clients has convinced me that all behaviors, symptoms (including many medical symptoms), thoughts, and feelings- no matter how distressing they can be or how puzzling they may appear to others and even oneself- are rich in meanings that can be explored and understood. I believe that therapy is a healing process through which such an exploration takes place.
(610) 624-8947 View (610) 624-8947
Photo of Adam Phillips, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lords Valley, PA
Adam Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairless Hills, PA 19030
My passion is working with children, teenagers, young adults, couples and families to process trauma and difficult experiences so they can experience growth and healing within themselves and their relationships. Through my work with individuals and family's I have learned the deep importance of understanding "what has happened" to people rather than viewing people through the lens of "what is wrong with people".
My passion is working with children, teenagers, young adults, couples and families to process trauma and difficult experiences so they can experience growth and healing within themselves and their relationships. Through my work with individuals and family's I have learned the deep importance of understanding "what has happened" to people rather than viewing people through the lens of "what is wrong with people".
(215) 309-9084 View (215) 309-9084
Photo of Veronica Haggerty in Lords Valley, PA
Veronica Haggerty
MA, RN, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hope, PA 18938
Are you in crisis? Do you feel stuck? I work with many people who feel this way and have helped them to understand and embrace their experiences. As a marriage and family therapist, I can help you figure things out. I will work with you to explore the stresses in your life and sort out what makes you feel happy and fulfilled. You owe this to yourself and the people who care about you to act now. Most people wait 7 years to seek help. Don't be that person. www.NewHopeForYourRelationships.com
Are you in crisis? Do you feel stuck? I work with many people who feel this way and have helped them to understand and embrace their experiences. As a marriage and family therapist, I can help you figure things out. I will work with you to explore the stresses in your life and sort out what makes you feel happy and fulfilled. You owe this to yourself and the people who care about you to act now. Most people wait 7 years to seek help. Don't be that person. www.NewHopeForYourRelationships.com
(267) 436-7589 View (267) 436-7589
Photo of Deb Kossmann, Psychologist in Lords Valley, PA
Deb Kossmann
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Langhorne, PA 19047  (Online Only)
If you're looking here, you've decided it's time to figure out something--maybe a difficult relationship, a chronic health problem or a cancer diagnosis. Perhaps you've been through some hard experiences in the past that you want to understand so they don't interfere with your present life. Or maybe you struggle with anxiety or depression. I believe the therapy relationship is collaborative. Our therapy can help you more deeply understand your own feelings and behaviors so you can better cope and be fulfilled in your life and relationships.
If you're looking here, you've decided it's time to figure out something--maybe a difficult relationship, a chronic health problem or a cancer diagnosis. Perhaps you've been through some hard experiences in the past that you want to understand so they don't interfere with your present life. Or maybe you struggle with anxiety or depression. I believe the therapy relationship is collaborative. Our therapy can help you more deeply understand your own feelings and behaviors so you can better cope and be fulfilled in your life and relationships.
(215) 274-0267 View (215) 274-0267
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.