Photo of Mallory Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Mallory Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 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 Jahna Golly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Jahna Golly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
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 Kindal Akers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Kindal Akers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, 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 Brett Gleason, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Brett Gleason
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I am a licensed professional counselor that specializes in working with children with emotional and behavioral issues including those who come from hard places and have experienced various types of trauma. I operate from an attachment perspective to help children, parents and families strengthen their relationships to get their deepest needs met. Being an adoptive father I have a particular heart for adoption and foster care.
I am a licensed professional counselor that specializes in working with children with emotional and behavioral issues including those who come from hard places and have experienced various types of trauma. I operate from an attachment perspective to help children, parents and families strengthen their relationships to get their deepest needs met. Being an adoptive father I have a particular heart for adoption and foster care.
(865) 240-2253 View (865) 240-2253
Photo of Kim Warner-Hudy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Kim Warner-Hudy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nolensville, TN 37135
I have over 20 years of professional experience working with adoption triad members through domestic adoption, foster care and international adoption.
Maya Angelou once said, “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” Changes, challenges and struggles are complex and take us out of our comfort zone. Too often we find it difficult to slow down, learn from and appreciate the journey of healing. My goal is for clients to help address those challenges, complexities and struggles whether it involves concerns with attachment, behavior regulation, family dynamics, infertility, parenting, racial identity or trauma as well as understand the meaning behind the behavior.
I have over 20 years of professional experience working with adoption triad members through domestic adoption, foster care and international adoption.
Maya Angelou once said, “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” Changes, challenges and struggles are complex and take us out of our comfort zone. Too often we find it difficult to slow down, learn from and appreciate the journey of healing. My goal is for clients to help address those challenges, complexities and struggles whether it involves concerns with attachment, behavior regulation, family dynamics, infertility, parenting, racial identity or trauma as well as understand the meaning behind the behavior.
(615) 283-9801 View (615) 283-9801
Photo of Stephannie Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Stephannie Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jackson, TN 38305
I have worked with children & families for over 20 years. Some of the areas I worked were in-home services, therapeutics foster care, crisis nursery, adoption, hospital setting & 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 with. I see adults too for life issues, anxiety & loss but I specialize with children. I use play therapy to help client find fun while they are working on hard issues & building skills. I love to think outside the box & help clients move forward.
I have worked with children & families for over 20 years. Some of the areas I worked were in-home services, therapeutics foster care, crisis nursery, adoption, hospital setting & 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 with. I see adults too for life issues, anxiety & loss but I specialize with children. I use play therapy to help client find fun while they are working on hard issues & building skills. I love to think outside the box & help clients move forward.
(731) 207-7749 View (731) 207-7749
Photo of Jan Clifton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
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 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.
(615) 490-0420 View (615) 490-0420
Photo of Tally Peters Warren, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Tally Peters Warren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
Life's transitions are challenging - especially for kids. Whether it's a major life-changing event like adoption, divorce, or trauma, or the day-to-day tasks like getting dressed or going to school, many kids need some extra support to navigate their worlds. Your child may be acting out with big behaviors, recovering from a traumatic event, transitioning into a new home, or processing difficult emotions. Your teen may be feeling isolated and depressed, lashing out in anger, or struggling to manage their responsibilities. Whatever the case may be, they need your support.
Life's transitions are challenging - especially for kids. Whether it's a major life-changing event like adoption, divorce, or trauma, or the day-to-day tasks like getting dressed or going to school, many kids need some extra support to navigate their worlds. Your child may be acting out with big behaviors, recovering from a traumatic event, transitioning into a new home, or processing difficult emotions. Your teen may be feeling isolated and depressed, lashing out in anger, or struggling to manage their responsibilities. Whatever the case may be, they need your support.
(615) 819-5793 View (615) 819-5793
Photo of Sunny Farrell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Sunny Farrell
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
2 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.
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Photo of Courtney Eichelberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
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 SpringWell Group, Psychologist in Tennessee
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 Brooke Douglas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Brooke Douglas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
Whether you feel stuck or just need support in learning to communicate with one another, I am here for you. My goal is to offer a safe comforting space free of the fear of judgement and rejection for you or your family to explore what healing looks like for you. My passion is walking along side teens ages 12-18, their families, and couples. I offer help with those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, spectrum disorder, grief, adoption, and more. As a therapist I have experience working with adolescents, families, and premarital couples counseling!
Whether you feel stuck or just need support in learning to communicate with one another, I am here for you. My goal is to offer a safe comforting space free of the fear of judgement and rejection for you or your family to explore what healing looks like for you. My passion is walking along side teens ages 12-18, their families, and couples. I offer help with those struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, ADHD, spectrum disorder, grief, adoption, and more. As a therapist I have experience working with adolescents, families, and premarital couples counseling!
(423) 528-9902 View (423) 528-9902
Photo of Christian Journey Counseling in Tennessee
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 Elizabeth J. Burton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Elizabeth J. Burton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Waitlist for new clients
As a PMH-C specialist, I have advanced training and experience working with pregnancy, postpartum, adoption, and related adjustment and attachment issues.
Hi! I’m Elizabeth and am so glad you are here looking for a safe space to heal and process life. I support adults and adolescents (16+) navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, grief, behavioral issues, and trauma recovery. I specialize in therapy for attachment & relationship dynamics, trauma & abuse, and perinatal mood & anxiety disorders for expectant and postpartum parents.
As a PMH-C specialist, I have advanced training and experience working with pregnancy, postpartum, adoption, and related adjustment and attachment issues.
Hi! I’m Elizabeth and am so glad you are here looking for a safe space to heal and process life. I support adults and adolescents (16+) navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, grief, behavioral issues, and trauma recovery. I specialize in therapy for attachment & relationship dynamics, trauma & abuse, and perinatal mood & anxiety disorders for expectant and postpartum parents.
(615) 209-9225 View (615) 209-9225
Photo of Katherine Hofstetter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
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 Jaclyn Beckler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Jaclyn Beckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, C-DBT, TF-CBT, PCIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I enjoy helping clients build resilience and feel a sense of safety both within themselves and with the outside world. Professional experience includes serving children, adolescents, adults, and families in the settings of community outreach, outpatient services, foster care, adoption, and mental health/addiction treatment centers. I am passionate about promoting personal growth, empowerment, advocacy, and self-efficacy. I strive to connect with clients in a safe therapeutic alliance to help increase tolerance thresholds through psycho-education, therapeutic interventions, skills practice, mind-body connection, and self-awareness.
I enjoy helping clients build resilience and feel a sense of safety both within themselves and with the outside world. Professional experience includes serving children, adolescents, adults, and families in the settings of community outreach, outpatient services, foster care, adoption, and mental health/addiction treatment centers. I am passionate about promoting personal growth, empowerment, advocacy, and self-efficacy. I strive to connect with clients in a safe therapeutic alliance to help increase tolerance thresholds through psycho-education, therapeutic interventions, skills practice, mind-body connection, and self-awareness.
(423) 456-9271 View (423) 456-9271
Photo of Halle Sullivan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Halle Sullivan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Are you a teen feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Are you a young adult feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and disconnected? Are you a parent who feels disconnected from your child, or exhausted trying to manage difficult behaviors? My mission is to help you and your family navigate challenging seasons of life with joy and confidence. For teens and young adults, I know how important it is to feel seen, heard, and be equipped with tools and skills to navigate difficult feelings, relationships, and adjustment periods. For parents walking through adoption, divorce, or other challenges, you are not alone.
Are you a teen feeling anxious, depressed, or lonely? Are you a young adult feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and disconnected? Are you a parent who feels disconnected from your child, or exhausted trying to manage difficult behaviors? My mission is to help you and your family navigate challenging seasons of life with joy and confidence. For teens and young adults, I know how important it is to feel seen, heard, and be equipped with tools and skills to navigate difficult feelings, relationships, and adjustment periods. For parents walking through adoption, divorce, or other challenges, you are not alone.
(615) 821-2115 View (615) 821-2115
Photo of Maddie Sisavath, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Maddie Sisavath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
In my personal and professional life I have developed a deep passion for working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I utilize various forms of therapy to help clients learn to better cope with mental, emotional, social, and/or behavioral struggles, and guide them towards health. I aim to help clients become emotionally resilient to the ongoing challenges that life continues to present! I empower clients to use their voice, challenge negative core beliefs, and celebrate their gifts and talents. Common areas of practice for me are adoption, divorce care, ADHD, emotional regulation, self esteem struggles, anxiety, and more.
In my personal and professional life I have developed a deep passion for working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I utilize various forms of therapy to help clients learn to better cope with mental, emotional, social, and/or behavioral struggles, and guide them towards health. I aim to help clients become emotionally resilient to the ongoing challenges that life continues to present! I empower clients to use their voice, challenge negative core beliefs, and celebrate their gifts and talents. Common areas of practice for me are adoption, divorce care, ADHD, emotional regulation, self esteem struggles, anxiety, and more.
(615) 334-0323 View (615) 334-0323
Photo of Hope Clinic for Women, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
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 Jessica Davidson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Jessica Davidson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, MHSP-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
Are you worried about your child? Does your child not seem like themselves? Your child may be irritable, aggressive and defiant. Your child may seem angry or withdrawn. Adolescents often refuse to talk to you, participate in enjoyable activities, experience thoughts of suicide or do things to harm themselves. Your child may have experienced a traumatic event or is having difficulty navigating a life change such as divorce, death of a family member or adoption. You may feel hopeless and not sure how to help your child. If this sounds familiar, I can help. I have experience working with children with these same issues.
(615) 434-4227 View (615) 434-4227
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.