Adoption Therapists in Oakdale, PA
Tammie Barkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakdale, PA 15071
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified drug and alcohol counselor. I have over 10 years experience in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified drug and alcohol counselor. I have over 10 years experience in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
Lisa M Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakdale, PA 15071
As a therapist with over 20 years experience, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support, and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with children, teens and adults who are seeking help with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, parenting, maternal health and life transitions.
As a therapist with over 20 years experience, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support, and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with children, teens and adults who are seeking help with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, parenting, maternal health and life transitions.
More Therapists Nearby
The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Are you looking for support in the areas of adoption, foster care, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss, pregnancy decision making, or a related area? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
Are you looking for support in the areas of adoption, foster care, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss, pregnancy decision making, or a related area? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
Casey Harvilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
I have also completed training in Sports Counseling and Adoption Competency.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
I have also completed training in Sports Counseling and Adoption Competency.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
I also have expertise supporting individuals and families with family planning including adoption, IUI/IVF, intentional single parenting, and foster care.
People enter therapy with me for many types of reasons at different stages of their lives. Someone may be processing a recent life transition or anticipating changes in the future. Many people have had something specific happen recently that was stressful, sudden or difficult for them. Often, people find they are struggling to cope with their emotions after many cumulative and sequential events. Sometimes, a specific relationship needs to come into focus and be healed. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to identify problem areas they would like to spend time on with the goal of finding peace and ease in their lives.
I also have expertise supporting individuals and families with family planning including adoption, IUI/IVF, intentional single parenting, and foster care.
People enter therapy with me for many types of reasons at different stages of their lives. Someone may be processing a recent life transition or anticipating changes in the future. Many people have had something specific happen recently that was stressful, sudden or difficult for them. Often, people find they are struggling to cope with their emotions after many cumulative and sequential events. Sometimes, a specific relationship needs to come into focus and be healed. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to identify problem areas they would like to spend time on with the goal of finding peace and ease in their lives.
Scanlon Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
Specialties: marital & divorce issues (including co-parenting counseling) Grief related to life changes (including death), as well as relationship issues; Adoption support (group & individual).
"I prefer to think of my patients and myself as fellow travelers, a term that abolishes distinctions between 'them' (the afflicted) and 'us' (the healers). ... We are all in this together, and there is no therapist and no person immune to the inherent tragedies of existence." (Borrowed from Dr. Irvin Yalom). My practice makes possible the important work of self-evolution & growth in part due to my eclectic approach & focus on the unique matters of every individual. My lived experiences have greatly influenced my desire to partner with my fellow travelers as we do our 'work' and to do so intentionally and mindfully.
Specialties: marital & divorce issues (including co-parenting counseling) Grief related to life changes (including death), as well as relationship issues; Adoption support (group & individual).
"I prefer to think of my patients and myself as fellow travelers, a term that abolishes distinctions between 'them' (the afflicted) and 'us' (the healers). ... We are all in this together, and there is no therapist and no person immune to the inherent tragedies of existence." (Borrowed from Dr. Irvin Yalom). My practice makes possible the important work of self-evolution & growth in part due to my eclectic approach & focus on the unique matters of every individual. My lived experiences have greatly influenced my desire to partner with my fellow travelers as we do our 'work' and to do so intentionally and mindfully.
The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Lebanon, PA 15228
He enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and children in the areas of adoption and infertility.
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
He enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and children in the areas of adoption and infertility.
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/ adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/ adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
Sydney Stephenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15275
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
Megan Schwemmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to search for a therapist. It can be overwhelming selecting a therapist and I appreciate you taking the first steps to do so. I am a passionate mental health clinician seeking motivated clients who are looking for change. I have four years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in the community mental health setting including Wrap-around services and Family-Focused mental health. It is inspiring and motivating to see clients change and become the best versions of themselves.
Hello! Thank you for taking the time to search for a therapist. It can be overwhelming selecting a therapist and I appreciate you taking the first steps to do so. I am a passionate mental health clinician seeking motivated clients who are looking for change. I have four years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families in the community mental health setting including Wrap-around services and Family-Focused mental health. It is inspiring and motivating to see clients change and become the best versions of themselves.
After many years working within our mental health system, I gradually became disheartened. I questioned the longer-term impact of the work I was doing. So much of our societal focus is on the symptoms of our suffering and I became increasingly curious about the root causes. Throughout my professional journey, I have been exploring different approaches to creating meaningful, lasting change in the lives of those I work with. I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities into a balanced, somatic approach to holistically support individuals so they can heal and grow.
After many years working within our mental health system, I gradually became disheartened. I questioned the longer-term impact of the work I was doing. So much of our societal focus is on the symptoms of our suffering and I became increasingly curious about the root causes. Throughout my professional journey, I have been exploring different approaches to creating meaningful, lasting change in the lives of those I work with. I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities into a balanced, somatic approach to holistically support individuals so they can heal and grow.
Susan Brookman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma can create a feeling within us that others won't accept us, see us or feel what we feel. It can leave us feeling scared, alone and judged. Life stressors can develop creating a mountain that seems too big to climb. Trauma can create a space where you don't have the words to describe what your are feeling and experiencing. You don't have to have the answers. Therapy is a journey of discovery and an experience of acceptance and safety. Healing occurs when we recognize where we have been and create new paths for our lives. I accompany people on their journey towards healing.
Trauma can create a feeling within us that others won't accept us, see us or feel what we feel. It can leave us feeling scared, alone and judged. Life stressors can develop creating a mountain that seems too big to climb. Trauma can create a space where you don't have the words to describe what your are feeling and experiencing. You don't have to have the answers. Therapy is a journey of discovery and an experience of acceptance and safety. Healing occurs when we recognize where we have been and create new paths for our lives. I accompany people on their journey towards healing.
Monica Waitkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
I believe everyone can make positive changes in their life and therapy is a safe, supportive experience to help navigate through the change process. I provide treatment that is tailored to your needs and is focused on promoting your unique strengths while also addressing any barriers to progress. Whether dealing with a major life crisis or just wanting to improve the overall quality of your life or relationships, my focus is on helping you find the skills and strength to make meaningful change. Emphasizing individual goals and personal autonomy, I create a therapeutic environment that is positive, open-minded and non-judgmental.
I have an extensive professional history of working with families and couples in crisis. Many of us struggle in our relationships & find that clear communication is challenging for many reasons. The barriers may include issues with past trauma or failed attempts to find the right words during a conflict. I bring the structural therapy tools to help a family, couple, or individual recognize the triggers of their conflicts, explore past trauma & the impact it may have on the current relationship/situation, help the individual challenge automatic negative assumptions, & find a response which leads to clear communication.
I have an extensive professional history of working with families and couples in crisis. Many of us struggle in our relationships & find that clear communication is challenging for many reasons. The barriers may include issues with past trauma or failed attempts to find the right words during a conflict. I bring the structural therapy tools to help a family, couple, or individual recognize the triggers of their conflicts, explore past trauma & the impact it may have on the current relationship/situation, help the individual challenge automatic negative assumptions, & find a response which leads to clear communication.
Teresa Beshai
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MALS, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15202
Are you concerned about your child's social interactions? I am a licensed professional counselor who has worked for private, nonprofit, and governmental facilities in both outpatient and residential behavioral settings. I specialize in child/adolescent and young adult behavioral health. From my multifaceted background, I have learned techniques that promote self- discovery with a fun approach to counseling. I specialize in child/adolescent ADHD, anxiety, depression, and impulse control. As a mother, I understand the blessings and challenges of parenthood. I can help to reduce tantrums and promote healthy relationships. Ready for a fresh start?
Are you concerned about your child's social interactions? I am a licensed professional counselor who has worked for private, nonprofit, and governmental facilities in both outpatient and residential behavioral settings. I specialize in child/adolescent and young adult behavioral health. From my multifaceted background, I have learned techniques that promote self- discovery with a fun approach to counseling. I specialize in child/adolescent ADHD, anxiety, depression, and impulse control. As a mother, I understand the blessings and challenges of parenthood. I can help to reduce tantrums and promote healthy relationships. Ready for a fresh start?
Mariellen Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CSP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I am here to help you. Having worked for years in the schools, my experience & advanced training equip me with the skills to help my clients learn how to manage the struggles in their life enabling them to feel happier and healthier. I use a client-centered, cognitive-behavioral approach (art, play, & music therapy with younger clients) to teach coping strategies, new skills, and behavior modification techniques for managing ADHD, ASD, anxiety, stress, and life transitions such as divorce, loss of a job, moving, changing schools, or the death of a loved one. Together, we can improve the quality of your life whenever you are ready.
I am here to help you. Having worked for years in the schools, my experience & advanced training equip me with the skills to help my clients learn how to manage the struggles in their life enabling them to feel happier and healthier. I use a client-centered, cognitive-behavioral approach (art, play, & music therapy with younger clients) to teach coping strategies, new skills, and behavior modification techniques for managing ADHD, ASD, anxiety, stress, and life transitions such as divorce, loss of a job, moving, changing schools, or the death of a loved one. Together, we can improve the quality of your life whenever you are ready.
Rebecca R. Hahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
Every person is a unique individual with their own stressors, but everyone can use some counseling sometimes. Hurt from the past, worries about the future, and stressors right now can get in the way of living a fulfilling, happy life. Rebecca Hahn, MA, LPC (she/her) of Counseling for Progress, LLC can help you sort through your emotions, experiences, and thoughts to make progress now. As a team, you and Rebecca Hahn can work together to reach your goals so you can enjoy your life.
Every person is a unique individual with their own stressors, but everyone can use some counseling sometimes. Hurt from the past, worries about the future, and stressors right now can get in the way of living a fulfilling, happy life. Rebecca Hahn, MA, LPC (she/her) of Counseling for Progress, LLC can help you sort through your emotions, experiences, and thoughts to make progress now. As a team, you and Rebecca Hahn can work together to reach your goals so you can enjoy your life.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I believe that every person, no matter the age, is capable learning new ways to express their emotions, navigate life's struggles, and work toward goals to live the best life possible. With over 10 years in the counseling field, I have learned that individuals and families who choose to include me in their journey will be willing to use creativity, personal strength, dedication and partnership as we create a wellness plan, establish new routines and celebrate accomplishments.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I believe that every person, no matter the age, is capable learning new ways to express their emotions, navigate life's struggles, and work toward goals to live the best life possible. With over 10 years in the counseling field, I have learned that individuals and families who choose to include me in their journey will be willing to use creativity, personal strength, dedication and partnership as we create a wellness plan, establish new routines and celebrate accomplishments.
Mind, Body, & Soulutions LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220 (Online Only)
With compassion and a holistic therapeutic approach we will identify patterns in behaviors and thoughts that may be holding you back from living your best life. Utilizing a solution- focused and cognitive behavioral approach our goal is to help you focus on your desired outcome while building on your strengths. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, we look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
With compassion and a holistic therapeutic approach we will identify patterns in behaviors and thoughts that may be holding you back from living your best life. Utilizing a solution- focused and cognitive behavioral approach our goal is to help you focus on your desired outcome while building on your strengths. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, we look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
The time and energy you are spending right now researching and connecting with a therapist is not easy, but it is important. Therapy is a challenging and rewarding investment in yourself and your relationships. Perhaps you want to improve connection with others, feel less stress and more satisfaction, create new ways of thinking and understanding feelings, or increase insight to change your present and future. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and flexible.
The time and energy you are spending right now researching and connecting with a therapist is not easy, but it is important. Therapy is a challenging and rewarding investment in yourself and your relationships. Perhaps you want to improve connection with others, feel less stress and more satisfaction, create new ways of thinking and understanding feelings, or increase insight to change your present and future. My approach is collaborative, supportive, and flexible.
See more therapy options for Oakdale
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Oakdale
- Allison Park
- Bethel Park
- Coraopolis
- Imperial
- McMurray
- Mount Lebanon
- Pittsburgh
- Sewickley
- Swissvale
- Upper Saint Clair
- Warrendale
- Wexford
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.