Adoption Therapists in Spring Grove, PA

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Photo of Wike Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Grove, 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 Psychological Services of York, LLC, Psychologist in Spring Grove, PA
Psychological Services of York, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
York, PA 17408
Our team at Psychological Services of York, LLC has a diverse background of expertise. Our highly trained experts perform neuropsychological evaluations, psycho-educational assessments, forensic evaluations, Autism assessment, and child custody evaluations. We also provide a variety of treatment modalities including but not limited to biofeedback, mindfulness strategies, family and individual psychotherapy, and executive functioning coaching. We provide guidance for parents, and consult with educators and schools regarding how to best facilitate the development of children.
Our team at Psychological Services of York, LLC has a diverse background of expertise. Our highly trained experts perform neuropsychological evaluations, psycho-educational assessments, forensic evaluations, Autism assessment, and child custody evaluations. We also provide a variety of treatment modalities including but not limited to biofeedback, mindfulness strategies, family and individual psychotherapy, and executive functioning coaching. We provide guidance for parents, and consult with educators and schools regarding how to best facilitate the development of children.
(717) 297-0893 View (717) 297-0893
Photo of Arise Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Grove, PA
Arise Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17403
One of my strengths is that I know how hard it can be to get started in therapy, so I always try to be sensitive and reassuring to my clients as we get to know each other. I am capable of reaching many different types of clients, but I most enjoy helping people who have been struggling for a long time and who cannot see a way out of their situation.
One of my strengths is that I know how hard it can be to get started in therapy, so I always try to be sensitive and reassuring to my clients as we get to know each other. I am capable of reaching many different types of clients, but I most enjoy helping people who have been struggling for a long time and who cannot see a way out of their situation.
(223) 400-7961 View (223) 400-7961
Photo of Kalyani G Broderick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Grove, 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 Emerge Counseling Ministries PA, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Grove, PA
Emerge Counseling Ministries PA
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
Other specialties include adolescent issues, parenting issues, and various mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, addiction, foster care and adoption, pastoral care.
Emerge Counseling Ministries PA accepts clients 8 yrs and older. We help those in need of marriage, couples, families or individual counseling. We help clients deal with many different mental health conditions from relationship and school-related issues to more specialized mental health issues. Our group is trained and skilled in the treatment of depression and anxiety-related disorders and multiple other mental health or life issues. We take most insurances. Please call us at (330)-867-5603 with any questions or send us an email.
Other specialties include adolescent issues, parenting issues, and various mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, addiction, foster care and adoption, pastoral care.
Emerge Counseling Ministries PA accepts clients 8 yrs and older. We help those in need of marriage, couples, families or individual counseling. We help clients deal with many different mental health conditions from relationship and school-related issues to more specialized mental health issues. Our group is trained and skilled in the treatment of depression and anxiety-related disorders and multiple other mental health or life issues. We take most insurances. Please call us at (330)-867-5603 with any questions or send us an email.
(717) 219-5181 View (717) 219-5181
Photo of Nita Laver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Grove, PA
Nita Laver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Whether you are dealing with problematic relationships (parent-child, family conflict, gay, lesbian, heterosexual couples), grief and loss, life transitions (infertility, adoption, divorce, re-marriage and blended families, infidelity), self-esteem issues, trauma and abuse, work concerns, or communication difficulties, help is available and solutions are within your reach.
Are you tired of repeating old patterns that are holding you back in your life? Have you been feeling angry, empty, lonely stressed out and unhappy? Are you struggling through a transition or a loss or with the legacy of emotional, physical or sexual abuse? There are times in everyone's life when reaching out for and receiving help can make a real difference in resolving problems, easing pain and living a more satisfying life. In psychotherapy a safe place will be created in which to deal with and resolve the unhappiness you are experiencing.
Whether you are dealing with problematic relationships (parent-child, family conflict, gay, lesbian, heterosexual couples), grief and loss, life transitions (infertility, adoption, divorce, re-marriage and blended families, infidelity), self-esteem issues, trauma and abuse, work concerns, or communication difficulties, help is available and solutions are within your reach.
Are you tired of repeating old patterns that are holding you back in your life? Have you been feeling angry, empty, lonely stressed out and unhappy? Are you struggling through a transition or a loss or with the legacy of emotional, physical or sexual abuse? There are times in everyone's life when reaching out for and receiving help can make a real difference in resolving problems, easing pain and living a more satisfying life. In psychotherapy a safe place will be created in which to deal with and resolve the unhappiness you are experiencing.
(215) 798-0291 View (215) 798-0291
Photo of Jodie Carvalho, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Grove, PA
Jodie Carvalho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Conshohocken, PA 19428
In addition to these issues, I specialize in self-esteem, anger management, parenting, and foster care/adoption.
Life gets hard. I hope to offer you a patient, comfortable place where you can find support & restoration, as you work to process through whatever life is throwing at you. I firmly believe that the key to emotional health starts with learning to love yourself. And if you’re seeking therapy, you’re already a step closer to that goal. I use a strengths-based approach that focused on bringing awareness to your feelings & their sources, and an understanding of the way that these feelings connect to your behaviors. From there, we can work together to help you cultivate a sense of control over your life. LCSW supervision also available.
In addition to these issues, I specialize in self-esteem, anger management, parenting, and foster care/adoption.
Life gets hard. I hope to offer you a patient, comfortable place where you can find support & restoration, as you work to process through whatever life is throwing at you. I firmly believe that the key to emotional health starts with learning to love yourself. And if you’re seeking therapy, you’re already a step closer to that goal. I use a strengths-based approach that focused on bringing awareness to your feelings & their sources, and an understanding of the way that these feelings connect to your behaviors. From there, we can work together to help you cultivate a sense of control over your life. LCSW supervision also available.
(215) 789-9830 View (215) 789-9830
Photo of Angelle E. Richardson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Grove, PA
Angelle E. Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
I am an experienced and empathetic Family Therapist, specializing in adoption, foster care, trauma and grief. My goal is to hold space for people to share their stories and work toward healing. I have over 18 years of experience working with people from diverse family constellations. I enjoy helping them find a way to move toward a better future.
I am an experienced and empathetic Family Therapist, specializing in adoption, foster care, trauma and grief. My goal is to hold space for people to share their stories and work toward healing. I have over 18 years of experience working with people from diverse family constellations. I enjoy helping them find a way to move toward a better future.
(267) 477-7302 View (267) 477-7302
Photo of Tiffany Jolly Jacob, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Grove, 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 Amanda Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Grove, PA
Amanda Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Warminster, PA 18974
I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, relational conflict, struggles in parenting, and attachment concerns. I have worked with clients around adoption and relational loss and am passionate about working with adults and teens experiencing intense emotions. I have a diverse background, having worked with children, adolescents, adults and whole families, survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, and at-risk youth. I am a member of the ACA and the Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues in Counseling, and take special interest in supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
I specialize in the treatment of mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, relational conflict, struggles in parenting, and attachment concerns. I have worked with clients around adoption and relational loss and am passionate about working with adults and teens experiencing intense emotions. I have a diverse background, having worked with children, adolescents, adults and whole families, survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, and at-risk youth. I am a member of the ACA and the Association for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues in Counseling, and take special interest in supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
(267) 991-8884 View (267) 991-8884
Photo of Mary Beth Hadley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Grove, 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 Elizabeth R. Weisman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Grove, 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 Donna M. Kane, Licensed Professional Counselor in Spring Grove, PA
Donna M. Kane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18902
I am well acquainted with anxiety, depression and offer CBT and DBT skills; as well as family and relational issues, adolescence, past trauma/abuse, abandonment issues, SPD, PTSD, RAD and other attachment and adjustment issues, adoption and foster care related issues,self-destructive behaviors and inability to regulate emotions.
I have a true passion for working with adults and adolescents who are suffering from an inability to form healthy relationships with their loved ones. My office offers a warm setting for people of all ages to feel safe and explore their "child within". I use play and art therapy as well as evidenced based techniques to empower parents and help them to connect with their child and unlock their full potential. I love helping families grow with healthy coping skills. I also truly enjoy working with adults to explore their own past and how it affects their relationships today.
I am well acquainted with anxiety, depression and offer CBT and DBT skills; as well as family and relational issues, adolescence, past trauma/abuse, abandonment issues, SPD, PTSD, RAD and other attachment and adjustment issues, adoption and foster care related issues,self-destructive behaviors and inability to regulate emotions.
I have a true passion for working with adults and adolescents who are suffering from an inability to form healthy relationships with their loved ones. My office offers a warm setting for people of all ages to feel safe and explore their "child within". I use play and art therapy as well as evidenced based techniques to empower parents and help them to connect with their child and unlock their full potential. I love helping families grow with healthy coping skills. I also truly enjoy working with adults to explore their own past and how it affects their relationships today.
(215) 874-5600 View (215) 874-5600
Photo of Lea Denlinger, Pre-Licensed Professional in Spring Grove, 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 Stephanie Marie Oyler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Grove, PA
Stephanie Marie Oyler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parkesburg, PA 19365
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 Amanda Woolston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Grove, 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 TeenaTalk, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Spring Grove, PA
TeenaTalk, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19131
My specialities include: Trauma, abandonment, rejection, anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, incarceration, separation, mediation, co parenting, blending unique families, LGBTQIA, adoption/foster care, identity, cultural/religious, & professional athlete stressors.
If you find yourself looking for therapy, I already know you have tried everything. Stop here and let me support you with the solutions and answers to your internal and external conflicts. You really are that powerful...use me to unlock the powers within!
My specialities include: Trauma, abandonment, rejection, anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, incarceration, separation, mediation, co parenting, blending unique families, LGBTQIA, adoption/foster care, identity, cultural/religious, & professional athlete stressors.
If you find yourself looking for therapy, I already know you have tried everything. Stop here and let me support you with the solutions and answers to your internal and external conflicts. You really are that powerful...use me to unlock the powers within!
(484) 673-6035 View (484) 673-6035
Photo of Richard Koenig, Psychologist in Spring Grove, PA
Richard Koenig
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Exton, PA 19341
In my professional life, I have concentrated in a number of specialty areas- clients with combined medical and psychological difficulties, addictions, child and adolescent disorders, sexual disorders and sexual abuse, and adoption related issues.
I have been in practice thirty years. I see psychotherapy as a process of increasing self awareness, developing a more realistic and tolerant self esteem, and identifying and working through losses, disappointments and relational conflicts. This process enables reduction in pain, greater self acceptance, and comfort in relationships and family. This process occurs in a collaborative effort between you the client, and myself. The safe environment of the office allows for the full expression and understanding of what you experience, think, and feel. Our work together enables symptom relief, greater personal understanding, growth, responsibility and contentment.
In my professional life, I have concentrated in a number of specialty areas- clients with combined medical and psychological difficulties, addictions, child and adolescent disorders, sexual disorders and sexual abuse, and adoption related issues.
I have been in practice thirty years. I see psychotherapy as a process of increasing self awareness, developing a more realistic and tolerant self esteem, and identifying and working through losses, disappointments and relational conflicts. This process enables reduction in pain, greater self acceptance, and comfort in relationships and family. This process occurs in a collaborative effort between you the client, and myself. The safe environment of the office allows for the full expression and understanding of what you experience, think, and feel. Our work together enables symptom relief, greater personal understanding, growth, responsibility and contentment.
(610) 915-8484 View (610) 915-8484
Photo of Kristine Moss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Grove, 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 Julia Ruane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Spring Grove, 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
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.