Photo of Mallory Morris, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mallory Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Change can be scary. Seeking help and support can be a big step. I will walk beside you through the journey from hard things to a life of hope and healing. There’s nothing more powerful than together. Hope and healing is possible. I am passionate about building trust and working with clients to set achievable goals to work towards together. I help children, adolescents, or adults, through learning regulation and coping skills using art, play, or other experiential means. If you are managing stress, anxiety, depression, need trauma processing, or need attachment work and support through adoption, please inquire.
Change can be scary. Seeking help and support can be a big step. I will walk beside you through the journey from hard things to a life of hope and healing. There’s nothing more powerful than together. Hope and healing is possible. I am passionate about building trust and working with clients to set achievable goals to work towards together. I help children, adolescents, or adults, through learning regulation and coping skills using art, play, or other experiential means. If you are managing stress, anxiety, depression, need trauma processing, or need attachment work and support through adoption, please inquire.
(615) 590-3160 View (615) 590-3160
Photo of Jan Clifton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jan Clifton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I work with every member of the adoption triad including search and reunion issues.
You have managed or contained life's challenges until it doesn't work anymore. The experiences of the past do not have to interfere with your joy in the present or future. My goal is to create a safe place for you to explore, learn, and create a new way of being in relationships and the world. I specialize in working with individuals and families that have been impacted by traumatic experiences, complex grief, attachment and relationship ruptures. Loss often involves trauma and trauma always involves grief. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
I work with every member of the adoption triad including search and reunion issues.
You have managed or contained life's challenges until it doesn't work anymore. The experiences of the past do not have to interfere with your joy in the present or future. My goal is to create a safe place for you to explore, learn, and create a new way of being in relationships and the world. I specialize in working with individuals and families that have been impacted by traumatic experiences, complex grief, attachment and relationship ruptures. Loss often involves trauma and trauma always involves grief. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
(615) 490-0420 View (615) 490-0420
Photo of Stephannie Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephannie Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson, TN 38305
I have worked with children & families for over 25 years. Some of the areas I have worked are: in-home services, therapeutics foster care, crisis nursery, adoption, hospital setting (in-patient & ER) & outpatient psychotherapy in the local mental health facility. I really enjoy helping my clients. I like to see them progress through the issues & symptoms they start off feeling. I see adults too for life issues, anxiety & loss and I specialize with children. I use play therapy to help clients find fun while they are working on hard issues & building skills. I love to think outside the box. I love helping clients move forward.
I have worked with children & families for over 25 years. Some of the areas I have worked are: in-home services, therapeutics foster care, crisis nursery, adoption, hospital setting (in-patient & ER) & outpatient psychotherapy in the local mental health facility. I really enjoy helping my clients. I like to see them progress through the issues & symptoms they start off feeling. I see adults too for life issues, anxiety & loss and I specialize with children. I use play therapy to help clients find fun while they are working on hard issues & building skills. I love to think outside the box. I love helping clients move forward.
(731) 207-7749 View (731) 207-7749
Photo of Kindal Akers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kindal Akers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I work with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from and cope with the impact of issues like trauma, abuse, grief, loss, adoption, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship struggles, and postpartum and women's issues. I believe every client I see is more than their problems or labels. I complete a thorough assessment, so I can customize treatment to meet clients where they are and help them toward their goals. I also create a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere that allows for reflection and healing.
I work with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from and cope with the impact of issues like trauma, abuse, grief, loss, adoption, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship struggles, and postpartum and women's issues. I believe every client I see is more than their problems or labels. I complete a thorough assessment, so I can customize treatment to meet clients where they are and help them toward their goals. I also create a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere that allows for reflection and healing.
(865) 205-0967 View (865) 205-0967
Photo of Jahna Golly, MA, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jahna Golly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Waitlist for new clients
This includes adoption/attachment related challenges, trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, school related challenges in teens and adolescents, anger, and behavioral challenges.
Why go to therapy? We all are allowed to have a crisis, but shouldn't do it at the same time. Therapy can be an incredible tool to help guide us in any stage of life. An experience designed around your individual needs, as healing comes in many forms. As a therapist, I seek to create an open and trusting space for you to be heard, to better understand yourself and to develop strategies that help you to navigate life with a healthy mindset. The therapeutic strategies that I use are guided by a trauma informed lens that allows for the use of many different potential interventions and determined by your personal needs and preferences.
This includes adoption/attachment related challenges, trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, school related challenges in teens and adolescents, anger, and behavioral challenges.
Why go to therapy? We all are allowed to have a crisis, but shouldn't do it at the same time. Therapy can be an incredible tool to help guide us in any stage of life. An experience designed around your individual needs, as healing comes in many forms. As a therapist, I seek to create an open and trusting space for you to be heard, to better understand yourself and to develop strategies that help you to navigate life with a healthy mindset. The therapeutic strategies that I use are guided by a trauma informed lens that allows for the use of many different potential interventions and determined by your personal needs and preferences.
(865) 982-5225 View (865) 982-5225
Photo of Amanda Marshall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37209
I specialize in trauma, attachment losses such as foster care and adoption, and working with children and preteens. I enjoy working with people of all ages to address anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, anger, self-image, caregiver stress, and family changes.
I specialize in trauma, attachment losses such as foster care and adoption, and working with children and preteens. I enjoy working with people of all ages to address anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, anger, self-image, caregiver stress, and family changes.
(629) 276-6100 View (629) 276-6100
Photo of Dawn Ducote, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Ducote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Having worked with individuals and couples to develop strategies to cope with and manage the effects of a stressful career, address trauma, grief, infertility and adoption, Post-Partum Depression, and other mental health concerns, I know that reaching out can be hard.
Therapy should be a safe place for you to work on goals, gain skills to better deal with life challenges, and/or to take back your life from the effects of trauma, depression, or anxiety. I customize my style for each individual and use evidence-based interventions to help you reach your goals. We can work together to help you find understanding, and catalyze growth and healing. I worked in the corporate world for 10+ years, and understand the struggles of managing a team, proving your worth, and finding time and ways to care for your soul.
Having worked with individuals and couples to develop strategies to cope with and manage the effects of a stressful career, address trauma, grief, infertility and adoption, Post-Partum Depression, and other mental health concerns, I know that reaching out can be hard.
Therapy should be a safe place for you to work on goals, gain skills to better deal with life challenges, and/or to take back your life from the effects of trauma, depression, or anxiety. I customize my style for each individual and use evidence-based interventions to help you reach your goals. We can work together to help you find understanding, and catalyze growth and healing. I worked in the corporate world for 10+ years, and understand the struggles of managing a team, proving your worth, and finding time and ways to care for your soul.
(615) 541-4698 View (615) 541-4698
Photo of Joyre A Montgomery, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyre A Montgomery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing issues related to family conflict, couples, parent and child disconnect, foster care/ adoption, self love, depression, anxiety, grief, postpartum issues, parenthood, personality disorders, mood disorders, behavioral challenges, adjustment, intrapersonal conflict, setting healthy boundaries, building lasting relationships, trauma, personal identities and other areas.
I enjoy working with clients who are experiencing issues related to family conflict, couples, parent and child disconnect, foster care/ adoption, self love, depression, anxiety, grief, postpartum issues, parenthood, personality disorders, mood disorders, behavioral challenges, adjustment, intrapersonal conflict, setting healthy boundaries, building lasting relationships, trauma, personal identities and other areas.
(423) 436-9962 View (423) 436-9962
Photo of Emily West, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily West
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
Welcome, I'm so glad you're here! My name is Emily, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist since 2019, and my experience includes working with children, teens, and adults who struggle with anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, foster care/ adoption issues, life transitions, low self-esteem, stress, women’s issues, and many other mental health issues. I am most passionate about assisting clients in finding deeper healing rather than a temporary fix. I always consider it an honor and a privilege to walk alongside individuals in this journey!
Welcome, I'm so glad you're here! My name is Emily, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working as a therapist since 2019, and my experience includes working with children, teens, and adults who struggle with anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, foster care/ adoption issues, life transitions, low self-esteem, stress, women’s issues, and many other mental health issues. I am most passionate about assisting clients in finding deeper healing rather than a temporary fix. I always consider it an honor and a privilege to walk alongside individuals in this journey!
(629) 468-3440 View (629) 468-3440
Photo of Helen Tarleton, MS, Ed, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Helen Tarleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, Ed, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I help my clients with issues such as life transitions; anxiety; depression; grief; trauma; phobias; chronic illness; sexual assault and adoption.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
I help my clients with issues such as life transitions; anxiety; depression; grief; trauma; phobias; chronic illness; sexual assault and adoption.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
(615) 784-5788 View (615) 784-5788
Photo of Katherine Hofstetter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Hofstetter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
My current practice areas include: relationship issues, self-esteem, marital / couple distress, premarital counseling, anxiety and depression, adoption and attachment parenting and counseling.
Our own human flourishing can feel out of reach at times especially amidst personal suffering, mental illness, loss, and disappointment. My hope is to provide a safe haven amidst a life which can often feel overwhelming - a place where we can focus on processing and growth. We will build on your strengths and relationships to help you reach your personal and relational goals and dreams.
My current practice areas include: relationship issues, self-esteem, marital / couple distress, premarital counseling, anxiety and depression, adoption and attachment parenting and counseling.
Our own human flourishing can feel out of reach at times especially amidst personal suffering, mental illness, loss, and disappointment. My hope is to provide a safe haven amidst a life which can often feel overwhelming - a place where we can focus on processing and growth. We will build on your strengths and relationships to help you reach your personal and relational goals and dreams.
(615) 489-4151 View (615) 489-4151
Photo of Lindsay Nicole Martinez - SpringWell Group, PsyD, Psychologist
SpringWell Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
My specialty areas include: Adjustment Issues, Adoption/Foster Care, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Certified in the ADOS-2), Behavioral Problems, Coping with Divorce/Separation, Depression, Developmental Delay, IEP/504 Consultation, Forensic, Parent-Child Relationship, Self-Esteem, School Avoidance, Social Skills, Trauma/PTSD & more.
Welcome to SpringWell Group! My name is Dr. Martinez & I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering comprehensive psychological testing, including Court-related evaluations. I also provide relational-focused therapy from a trauma-informed & attachment-based foundation that views secure relationship & interpersonal connection as central to healing and growth. I believe people have an innate need to be seen & are capable of remarkable growth, & that with caring support they can flourish in even the most difficult times. Services at client preferred location available for high privacy.
My specialty areas include: Adjustment Issues, Adoption/Foster Care, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Certified in the ADOS-2), Behavioral Problems, Coping with Divorce/Separation, Depression, Developmental Delay, IEP/504 Consultation, Forensic, Parent-Child Relationship, Self-Esteem, School Avoidance, Social Skills, Trauma/PTSD & more.
Welcome to SpringWell Group! My name is Dr. Martinez & I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist offering comprehensive psychological testing, including Court-related evaluations. I also provide relational-focused therapy from a trauma-informed & attachment-based foundation that views secure relationship & interpersonal connection as central to healing and growth. I believe people have an innate need to be seen & are capable of remarkable growth, & that with caring support they can flourish in even the most difficult times. Services at client preferred location available for high privacy.
(423) 441-4279 View (423) 441-4279
Photo of Sunny Farrell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sunny Farrell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked for many years in adoption and child welfare. This experience allows me to take an informed clinical approach to families and the challenges presented in our daily lives and within our communities. Additionally, this work has given me an understanding of high stress work environments.
Prior to becoming a therapist, I worked for many years in adoption and child welfare. This experience allows me to take an informed clinical approach to families and the challenges presented in our daily lives and within our communities. Additionally, this work has given me an understanding of high stress work environments.
View
Photo of Linda Buck - Christian Journey Counseling, LMFT
Christian Journey Counseling
LMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Prepare/Enrich for Premarital couples counseling; experienced in loss/grief of a child, fostercare, adoption & past RN healthcare provider; I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space for honesty, insight and discovery of dysfunctional patterns.
Shame, anger, loneliness, grief are painful emotions. Maybe your close relationships are not as healthy as you would like, feeling unseen, misunderstood and maybe resentful. People-pleasing, a lack of boundaries, leave us feeling disconnected in a relationship fearing rejection yet longing for a healthy, intimate relationship . Change starts with talking about your concerns and being validated in our experiences while identifying challenges that have you feeling stuck. Let's talk about those problematic issues or emotional wounds together to journey through to a healthier place of confident in communication, values, and boundaries.
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Prepare/Enrich for Premarital couples counseling; experienced in loss/grief of a child, fostercare, adoption & past RN healthcare provider; I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space for honesty, insight and discovery of dysfunctional patterns.
Shame, anger, loneliness, grief are painful emotions. Maybe your close relationships are not as healthy as you would like, feeling unseen, misunderstood and maybe resentful. People-pleasing, a lack of boundaries, leave us feeling disconnected in a relationship fearing rejection yet longing for a healthy, intimate relationship . Change starts with talking about your concerns and being validated in our experiences while identifying challenges that have you feeling stuck. Let's talk about those problematic issues or emotional wounds together to journey through to a healthier place of confident in communication, values, and boundaries.
(615) 560-7294 View (615) 560-7294
Photo of Amanda Hargis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Hargis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Waitlist for new clients
Specifically, betrayal trauma, infidelity, attachment wounds/developmental trauma, grief/loss, parental challenges/skills, & adoption competent support.
We heal best in the presence of others. A trusting relationship is key to this process and you’ve already taken one of the most difficult steps…to let another into this space with you. Everyone can benefit from shared space and time with a neutral ally. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds with various relational needs. My clients describe me as approachable, present, empathetic, authentic, knowledgeable, & candid. Understanding our relational patterns, the impacts of our experiences, & our nervous system cues are essential in shaping new ways of being.
Specifically, betrayal trauma, infidelity, attachment wounds/developmental trauma, grief/loss, parental challenges/skills, & adoption competent support.
We heal best in the presence of others. A trusting relationship is key to this process and you’ve already taken one of the most difficult steps…to let another into this space with you. Everyone can benefit from shared space and time with a neutral ally. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds with various relational needs. My clients describe me as approachable, present, empathetic, authentic, knowledgeable, & candid. Understanding our relational patterns, the impacts of our experiences, & our nervous system cues are essential in shaping new ways of being.
View
Photo of Beth Barnard, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Barnard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
By curiously hearing and understanding your life story through our professional relationship, I hope to unburden you of your pain and help you remove road blocks which might be keeping you from experiencing greater pleasure. I work with adults ranging in age from 18 through post retirement years and specialize in treating life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, infertility, adoption, postpartum depression, grief, loss, and divorce. I'm sensitive to issues of diversity and inclusion, am interested in working with people from various cultural backgrounds, and am a LGBTQ ally.
By curiously hearing and understanding your life story through our professional relationship, I hope to unburden you of your pain and help you remove road blocks which might be keeping you from experiencing greater pleasure. I work with adults ranging in age from 18 through post retirement years and specialize in treating life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, infertility, adoption, postpartum depression, grief, loss, and divorce. I'm sensitive to issues of diversity and inclusion, am interested in working with people from various cultural backgrounds, and am a LGBTQ ally.
(615) 807-0935 View (615) 807-0935
Photo of Courtney Eichelberger, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Eichelberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wartrace, TN 37183
We all struggle at times for many different reasons. I believe having the tools to help ourselves navigate these times can be invaluable and I am committed to helping my clients discover their tools. I am a LCSW with many years of experience in various settings including hospital systems, adoption and foster care, justice system, and private practice. I have provided direct client care, managed teams, trained clinicians in emergency room settings, utilized telehealth, and provided supervision/training to other professionals in my field. All of these opportunities have taught me that Everyone can flourish and pursue their best self.
We all struggle at times for many different reasons. I believe having the tools to help ourselves navigate these times can be invaluable and I am committed to helping my clients discover their tools. I am a LCSW with many years of experience in various settings including hospital systems, adoption and foster care, justice system, and private practice. I have provided direct client care, managed teams, trained clinicians in emergency room settings, utilized telehealth, and provided supervision/training to other professionals in my field. All of these opportunities have taught me that Everyone can flourish and pursue their best self.
(931) 345-3325 View (931) 345-3325
Photo of Robert (Bob) E Swope, MEd, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert (Bob) E Swope
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
I am Licensed Professional Counselor with over twenty 28 years of experience working with adults, children and families. I am a graduate of U T Chattanooga with a BS in Psychology and a MEd. in Community Counseling I also did some graduate work at Florida State and University of Houston.. I have both personal and professional experience with parenting, stepfamilies, divorce issues, adoption and reunification, and the adjustment issues which challenge families today.I am an advocate for the LGBTQ community. I am passionate about educating ,coaching and empowering my clients to make the best choices for their unique selves.
I am Licensed Professional Counselor with over twenty 28 years of experience working with adults, children and families. I am a graduate of U T Chattanooga with a BS in Psychology and a MEd. in Community Counseling I also did some graduate work at Florida State and University of Houston.. I have both personal and professional experience with parenting, stepfamilies, divorce issues, adoption and reunification, and the adjustment issues which challenge families today.I am an advocate for the LGBTQ community. I am passionate about educating ,coaching and empowering my clients to make the best choices for their unique selves.
(423) 250-2087 View (423) 250-2087
Photo of Sara Baldwin - Hope Clinic for Women, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Clinic for Women
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Located in Nashville, TN our licensed counselors see Individuals, Couples, and Families. We offer counseling for: Pregnancy Loss (Miscarriage, Infant Death, Stillbirth, Failed IVF, Abortion), Adoption-Related Loss, Support for Infertility and Reproductive Health Concerns, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), STD Diagnoses, Grief, Loss, Relationship issues, Sexual Abuse and Assault, Boundaries, Assertiveness and Communication, Self Esteem, and Pornography/Sexual Addiction. We are a faith-based, safe, and confidential place, providing professional counseling regardless of age, race, or religion.
Located in Nashville, TN our licensed counselors see Individuals, Couples, and Families. We offer counseling for: Pregnancy Loss (Miscarriage, Infant Death, Stillbirth, Failed IVF, Abortion), Adoption-Related Loss, Support for Infertility and Reproductive Health Concerns, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), STD Diagnoses, Grief, Loss, Relationship issues, Sexual Abuse and Assault, Boundaries, Assertiveness and Communication, Self Esteem, and Pornography/Sexual Addiction. We are a faith-based, safe, and confidential place, providing professional counseling regardless of age, race, or religion.
(615) 551-3311 View (615) 551-3311
Photo of Corrie Larson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corrie Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
My practice interests/specialties include: Anxiety, grief, depression, infertility, adoption, women's issues, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, stress management, & coping.
Hi! I'm Corrie and I'm so glad you are here! 'Bloom' (noun) - meaning... a beautiful process of becoming was the inspiration behind founding my practice Bloom Counseling & Consultation. It is a reflection of both my desire for women to see their full potential while also recognizing that growth IS possible regardless of what you may be facing! Although I have supported hundreds of clients in a variety of treatment settings over the last 15 yrs, I found my calling in working primarily with women/women’s issues after experiencing my own personal journey with infertility, motherhood, and grief/loss.
My practice interests/specialties include: Anxiety, grief, depression, infertility, adoption, women's issues, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions, stress management, & coping.
Hi! I'm Corrie and I'm so glad you are here! 'Bloom' (noun) - meaning... a beautiful process of becoming was the inspiration behind founding my practice Bloom Counseling & Consultation. It is a reflection of both my desire for women to see their full potential while also recognizing that growth IS possible regardless of what you may be facing! Although I have supported hundreds of clients in a variety of treatment settings over the last 15 yrs, I found my calling in working primarily with women/women’s issues after experiencing my own personal journey with infertility, motherhood, and grief/loss.
(253) 201-6471 View (253) 201-6471
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.