Adoption Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Lane Newton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Lane Newton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
It is an honor to be able to listen, support, and help families find hope. I am a licensed professional counselor who provides counseling services to children, women, and families in Nashville. I specialize in working with trauma, abuse, and attachment and have experience with clients in a variety of settings, including domestic violence, adoption, and foster care.
It is an honor to be able to listen, support, and help families find hope. I am a licensed professional counselor who provides counseling services to children, women, and families in Nashville. I specialize in working with trauma, abuse, and attachment and have experience with clients in a variety of settings, including domestic violence, adoption, and foster care.
(615) 502-4937 View (615) 502-4937
Photo of Jan Clifton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
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 Mallory Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Mallory Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201
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 Kim Warner-Hudy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Kim Warner-Hudy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211
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 HopeNation in Nashville, TN
HopeNation
Not Verified Not Verified
Nashville, TN 37211  (Online Only)
HopeNation offers assistance with: anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic difficulties, trauma, bipolar disorders, behavioral issues related to acting out & dysregulation, ADHD, grief & loss, social difficulties, impact of divorce, & adoption/foster care.
Does your child, teen or young adult (up to age 26) struggle to experience the best that life has to offer? As a parent do you have challenges that create overwhelm and distance between you and your child? As a young adult, are you at a loss for how to handle what life throws your way? HopeNation therapists offer hope and healing to children, teens, young adults and their families by empowering our clients to take charge of their lives. Proven interventions are used within a supportive and non-judgmental space that allows growth and transformation to take hold and flourish. You are not alone, reach out and connect today...
HopeNation offers assistance with: anxiety, depression, life transitions, academic difficulties, trauma, bipolar disorders, behavioral issues related to acting out & dysregulation, ADHD, grief & loss, social difficulties, impact of divorce, & adoption/foster care.
Does your child, teen or young adult (up to age 26) struggle to experience the best that life has to offer? As a parent do you have challenges that create overwhelm and distance between you and your child? As a young adult, are you at a loss for how to handle what life throws your way? HopeNation therapists offer hope and healing to children, teens, young adults and their families by empowering our clients to take charge of their lives. Proven interventions are used within a supportive and non-judgmental space that allows growth and transformation to take hold and flourish. You are not alone, reach out and connect today...
(629) 209-1769 View (629) 209-1769
Photo of Kristi Marshall, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Kristi Marshall
Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I have treated "all things pregnancy" for several years including pregnancy loss, postpartum depression, adoption and infertility.
I consider it an honor to walk alongside my clients on their journey towards healing. My therapy approach is highly collaborative. I value the therapeutic relationship more than any technique or theory itself. Initiating counseling is often a big and difficult step and I do my best to help you feel relaxed, comfortable and welcome. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing loss and grief. Many presenting issues come down to a loss- loss of a loved one, loss of a pregnancy, loss of hopes/dreams, loss of a marriage...and working through loss requires time, connection and a safe place.
I have treated "all things pregnancy" for several years including pregnancy loss, postpartum depression, adoption and infertility.
I consider it an honor to walk alongside my clients on their journey towards healing. My therapy approach is highly collaborative. I value the therapeutic relationship more than any technique or theory itself. Initiating counseling is often a big and difficult step and I do my best to help you feel relaxed, comfortable and welcome. I am passionate about working with clients experiencing loss and grief. Many presenting issues come down to a loss- loss of a loved one, loss of a pregnancy, loss of hopes/dreams, loss of a marriage...and working through loss requires time, connection and a safe place.
(615) 567-5548 View (615) 567-5548
Photo of Helen Tarleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
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 Beth Barnard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
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 Elizabeth J. Burton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
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 Jessica Davidson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
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
Photo of Caroline Cubillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Caroline Cubillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
As a therapist, I believe deeply in the power of relationship. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing, trusting therapeutic relationship from which my clients can find healing and growth. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Nashville, TN working from a relational, client-centered lens, with a background in trauma and attachment. I provide services for children, young adults and families with a wide variety of presenting issues including trauma, loss, family conflict, adoption, depression, anxiety and difficulties with emotional regulation.
As a therapist, I believe deeply in the power of relationship. My goal is to create a safe, nurturing, trusting therapeutic relationship from which my clients can find healing and growth. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Nashville, TN working from a relational, client-centered lens, with a background in trauma and attachment. I provide services for children, young adults and families with a wide variety of presenting issues including trauma, loss, family conflict, adoption, depression, anxiety and difficulties with emotional regulation.
(615) 908-5144 View (615) 908-5144
Photo of Katherine Hofstetter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
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 Sunny Farrell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
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 Hope Clinic for Women, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
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 Dawn Ducote, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Dawn Ducote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Having worked with individuals and families 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 families 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 Samara Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Samara Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Specialities include but are not limited to trauma, sexual abuse recovery, entertainment industry, family conflict, personality disorder, military issues, foster system/adoption, and codependency.
At Samara, we meet each person where they are to identify tailored goals and move toward an improved quality of life. Support is provided within a safe, highly confidential, & creative space. We offer decades of experience providing therapeutic services within the entertainment industry. When needed, we help our clients explore their needs and life experiences through the lens of trauma-informed and trauma-focused care. Individual, family, and group therapy options are available. Connect with us to talk through next steps.
Specialities include but are not limited to trauma, sexual abuse recovery, entertainment industry, family conflict, personality disorder, military issues, foster system/adoption, and codependency.
At Samara, we meet each person where they are to identify tailored goals and move toward an improved quality of life. Support is provided within a safe, highly confidential, & creative space. We offer decades of experience providing therapeutic services within the entertainment industry. When needed, we help our clients explore their needs and life experiences through the lens of trauma-informed and trauma-focused care. Individual, family, and group therapy options are available. Connect with us to talk through next steps.
(310) 879-5554 View (310) 879-5554
Photo of Emily Guest, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Emily Guest
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209
Hi, I’m Emily! I’m a middle Tennessee native, passionate about helping others. My specialty is with teen girls dealing with anxiety, grief, and OCD, I have experience with children (male and female) ages 6-12, teen girls, adult women ages 18-50, and premarital couples. I have worked with anxiety, depression, grief, adoption, divorce, self-harm, eating disorders, addiction and behavioral issues. I am certified in the Prepare Enrich couples therapy model.
Hi, I’m Emily! I’m a middle Tennessee native, passionate about helping others. My specialty is with teen girls dealing with anxiety, grief, and OCD, I have experience with children (male and female) ages 6-12, teen girls, adult women ages 18-50, and premarital couples. I have worked with anxiety, depression, grief, adoption, divorce, self-harm, eating disorders, addiction and behavioral issues. I am certified in the Prepare Enrich couples therapy model.
(615) 558-5262 View (615) 558-5262
Photo of Emily West, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Emily West
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37201
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 Halle Sullivan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Halle Sullivan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
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 Corrie Larson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Corrie Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37202  (Online Only)
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.