Therapists in Alexandria, VA

Photo of Mari J Itzkowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Mari J Itzkowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TAC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22306
I am also a trained Adoption Competent Therapist.
Everyone experiences loss. Seldom do we allow ourselves to fully experience loss or it's impact. When someone dies, we change jobs, or even have a child, there is loss. When we choose to address these losses, past or present, we can begin to heal, and with healing comes unlimited possibility. I work with families/individuals/children and the impact family dynamics have on their lives; adoptees and their families as they deal their losses; bereaved individuals and groups after the death of a loved one; transitional loss and role adjustment included "empty nest"; corporate downsizing; career counseling; and relationship issues.
I am also a trained Adoption Competent Therapist.
Everyone experiences loss. Seldom do we allow ourselves to fully experience loss or it's impact. When someone dies, we change jobs, or even have a child, there is loss. When we choose to address these losses, past or present, we can begin to heal, and with healing comes unlimited possibility. I work with families/individuals/children and the impact family dynamics have on their lives; adoptees and their families as they deal their losses; bereaved individuals and groups after the death of a loved one; transitional loss and role adjustment included "empty nest"; corporate downsizing; career counseling; and relationship issues.
(703) 468-8884 View (703) 468-8884
Photo of Andrea Zalzal Sanderson, Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Andrea Zalzal Sanderson
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307
Anxiety, depression, ADHD, infertility, divorce, LGBTQ, adoption, parenting, pre-marital counseling.
At times, we all struggle with the inevitable trials of being human. You may be a parent or partner in a significant relationship struggling with connection, and in need of both practical and emotional support. At times, feelings of anxiety, apathy, and depression arise, and feelings of disconnection and loneliness can take hold. For others, we may be at a crossroads in our life, brought about by divorce, relocation, caregiving for a loved one, or a desire to have a bigger impact in our communities and the world. We may be asking ourselves BIG questions, “what’s next”, “what should I do”, and “what do I want from life”.
Anxiety, depression, ADHD, infertility, divorce, LGBTQ, adoption, parenting, pre-marital counseling.
At times, we all struggle with the inevitable trials of being human. You may be a parent or partner in a significant relationship struggling with connection, and in need of both practical and emotional support. At times, feelings of anxiety, apathy, and depression arise, and feelings of disconnection and loneliness can take hold. For others, we may be at a crossroads in our life, brought about by divorce, relocation, caregiving for a loved one, or a desire to have a bigger impact in our communities and the world. We may be asking ourselves BIG questions, “what’s next”, “what should I do”, and “what do I want from life”.
(571) 252-5549 View (571) 252-5549
Photo of Elizabeth Lopez-Cardona, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Elizabeth Lopez-Cardona
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22305  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist practicing in the northern Virginia/Metropolitan DC region for over 25 years. I am a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist. My emphasis and training includes the treatment of and consultation for: depression, relationship difficulties, infidelity, anxiety, adoption, parenting issues, past trauma and gender identity questioning . I have extensive experience assisting clients cope with acculturation issues and challenges commonly faced by immigrant populations. I would love to discuss with you different ways that I could help you achieve your life goals.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist practicing in the northern Virginia/Metropolitan DC region for over 25 years. I am a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist. My emphasis and training includes the treatment of and consultation for: depression, relationship difficulties, infidelity, anxiety, adoption, parenting issues, past trauma and gender identity questioning . I have extensive experience assisting clients cope with acculturation issues and challenges commonly faced by immigrant populations. I would love to discuss with you different ways that I could help you achieve your life goals.
(703) 828-0502 View (703) 828-0502
Photo of Mind Chronicles Therapeutic Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Mind Chronicles Therapeutic Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Life is an amazing journey but occasionally we encounter many bumps in the road and we lose sight of some of life’s beautiful blessings. These obstacles can be very challenging to manage in the moment, but it is within our darkest moments; where we discover our light. My name is Najah Dail and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia (LPC). I primarily work with adolescents and young adults who are dealing with issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, anger/stress Management, self-image and self-Esteem, depression, emotional regulation, foster care/adoption and grief.
Life is an amazing journey but occasionally we encounter many bumps in the road and we lose sight of some of life’s beautiful blessings. These obstacles can be very challenging to manage in the moment, but it is within our darkest moments; where we discover our light. My name is Najah Dail and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia (LPC). I primarily work with adolescents and young adults who are dealing with issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, anger/stress Management, self-image and self-Esteem, depression, emotional regulation, foster care/adoption and grief.
(571) 378-5012 View (571) 378-5012
Photo of Finding Clarity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Finding Clarity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
(571) 487-8254 View (571) 487-8254
Photo of Raven E. Jenerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Raven E. Jenerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
My inclusive, holistic approach integrates trauma-informed, intersectional, cultural and creative practices into my healing work with folx navigating trauma, inner child wounds, low self-esteem, life after foster care or adoption, anxiety, depression, addictions, substance use, triggers or flashbacks associated with intimate partner or sexual violence.
There are many layers and textures in each of our stories and individual healing journeys, that may make us believe that healing is impossible or that inner wellness after trauma is unattainable. You are worthy and capable of the healing you're envisioning. For many of us, a safe healing space is the first step in that journey back to self and is the support we’ve been searching for to become the next best version of ourselves. Together, we co-create the space you need to celebrate your innate wisdom; restore trust in your intuition and voice; and nurture your growth towards more healing and easeful living.
My inclusive, holistic approach integrates trauma-informed, intersectional, cultural and creative practices into my healing work with folx navigating trauma, inner child wounds, low self-esteem, life after foster care or adoption, anxiety, depression, addictions, substance use, triggers or flashbacks associated with intimate partner or sexual violence.
There are many layers and textures in each of our stories and individual healing journeys, that may make us believe that healing is impossible or that inner wellness after trauma is unattainable. You are worthy and capable of the healing you're envisioning. For many of us, a safe healing space is the first step in that journey back to self and is the support we’ve been searching for to become the next best version of ourselves. Together, we co-create the space you need to celebrate your innate wisdom; restore trust in your intuition and voice; and nurture your growth towards more healing and easeful living.
(202) 968-3476 View (202) 968-3476
Photo of Susannah J. Volkers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Susannah J. Volkers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MABC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
If you are in a season of suffering, difficulty, or overwhelmed with life challenges, consider seeing Susannah for therapeutic services. Susannah is available to help individuals, couples and families with various issues, including, but not limited to: grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, adoption, identity formation, life transitions, eating issues, chronic illness, and depression. If desired, Susannah is able to integrate a Christian framework to guide her clients towards positive and sustainable change.
If you are in a season of suffering, difficulty, or overwhelmed with life challenges, consider seeing Susannah for therapeutic services. Susannah is available to help individuals, couples and families with various issues, including, but not limited to: grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, adoption, identity formation, life transitions, eating issues, chronic illness, and depression. If desired, Susannah is able to integrate a Christian framework to guide her clients towards positive and sustainable change.
(571) 366-7807 View (571) 366-7807
Photo of Anne Colby Wittenberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Anne Colby Wittenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302
EVENING TELEHEALTH HOURS/FREE CONSULTATION!! As a therapist, connecting with clients and walking with them through their journey of triumphs and challenges, I have found that the connection between counselor and client is paramount. I strive to meet my clients where they are, focusing on their strengths and empowering them to make the changes they see fit rather than prescribing issue or diagnosis. I value treating each individual client with the respect they deserve. Placing emphasis on developing a relationship that is based on warmth, trust, respect, and genuine care. The ease of conversation, is client driven and casual.
EVENING TELEHEALTH HOURS/FREE CONSULTATION!! As a therapist, connecting with clients and walking with them through their journey of triumphs and challenges, I have found that the connection between counselor and client is paramount. I strive to meet my clients where they are, focusing on their strengths and empowering them to make the changes they see fit rather than prescribing issue or diagnosis. I value treating each individual client with the respect they deserve. Placing emphasis on developing a relationship that is based on warmth, trust, respect, and genuine care. The ease of conversation, is client driven and casual.
(571) 999-7003 View (571) 999-7003
Photo of Willi Dalaba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Willi Dalaba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302
The Apostle Paul said “each of us has one body with many members” (Romans 12:4-5). In a similar fashion, Willi Dalaba, LCSW, sees people composed of different parts that make up the whole. Physical, mental, emotional and spiritual all combine to make up an individual. A good counselor, she believes, may need to help a client bring into a better balance these different aspects of their personality. This is part of the theoretical grounding and expertise that Willi Dalaba brings to her years of counseling experience.
The Apostle Paul said “each of us has one body with many members” (Romans 12:4-5). In a similar fashion, Willi Dalaba, LCSW, sees people composed of different parts that make up the whole. Physical, mental, emotional and spiritual all combine to make up an individual. A good counselor, she believes, may need to help a client bring into a better balance these different aspects of their personality. This is part of the theoretical grounding and expertise that Willi Dalaba brings to her years of counseling experience.
(571) 321-5128 View (571) 321-5128
Photo of Tammy Reade, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Tammy Reade
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
I'm Tammy Reade, a licensed professional counselor, having earned my degree from George Mason University in 2020. My path to counseling has been shaped by my personal journey, spanning over 25 years in the field. My diverse experience encompasses working with adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I've held roles such as a child protection worker, juvenile probation officer, advocate for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, foster parent trainer, and jail therapist. Yet, my most meaningful role has been as an adoptive and foster parent for more than 22 years.
I'm Tammy Reade, a licensed professional counselor, having earned my degree from George Mason University in 2020. My path to counseling has been shaped by my personal journey, spanning over 25 years in the field. My diverse experience encompasses working with adults, couples, adolescents, and children. I've held roles such as a child protection worker, juvenile probation officer, advocate for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, foster parent trainer, and jail therapist. Yet, my most meaningful role has been as an adoptive and foster parent for more than 22 years.
(571) 520-6027 View (571) 520-6027
Photo of Potomac Center, Inc., Psychologist in Alexandria, VA
Potomac Center, Inc.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
For over 40 years, the Potomac Center, Inc. (PCI) has been helping Northern Virginia residents with counseling, psychological testing, family, marital and individual therapy services for all ages. We are a private practice with 14 Licensed Clinical therapists and one of the few practices that can offer a full array of mental health services under one roof, from therapy to testing. People ask us why we get so excited about Working at PCI. It’s about helping people reaching their goals… We like to think we’re making a positive impact on the community and help people maneuver through their emotions productively.
For over 40 years, the Potomac Center, Inc. (PCI) has been helping Northern Virginia residents with counseling, psychological testing, family, marital and individual therapy services for all ages. We are a private practice with 14 Licensed Clinical therapists and one of the few practices that can offer a full array of mental health services under one roof, from therapy to testing. People ask us why we get so excited about Working at PCI. It’s about helping people reaching their goals… We like to think we’re making a positive impact on the community and help people maneuver through their emotions productively.
(703) 997-2632 View (703) 997-2632
Photo of Dynamic Health Partners, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Dynamic Health Partners, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Dynamic Health Partners, LLC provides Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help address client's issues with anxiety, depression, addiction, Severe Mental Illness, family discord, marital problems, academic support, ADHD, behavioral problems in children and a variety of other stress related issues. Clients can expect a solution focused, holistic, evidenced based and functional approach to mental health wellness. All clinicians are independently licensed in the state of Arizona. We look forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey!
Dynamic Health Partners, LLC provides Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help address client's issues with anxiety, depression, addiction, Severe Mental Illness, family discord, marital problems, academic support, ADHD, behavioral problems in children and a variety of other stress related issues. Clients can expect a solution focused, holistic, evidenced based and functional approach to mental health wellness. All clinicians are independently licensed in the state of Arizona. We look forward to partnering with you on your wellness journey!
(202) 946-2567 View (202) 946-2567
Photo of Monica Woropaj, M.A., LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Monica Woropaj, M.A., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For faster response call and leave a message. I work with motivated adults who are experiencing challenges that impact their ability to live a satisfying life. I assist clients to develop and practice appropriate boundaries, skills, and gain personal insight. Therapy offers an opportunity to understand more about yourself assisting you to make changes that lead to greater happiness and satisfaction. I offer Psychotherapy to address: Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Post Abortion Healing, Guilt/Shame, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, and Interpersonal Relations.
For faster response call and leave a message. I work with motivated adults who are experiencing challenges that impact their ability to live a satisfying life. I assist clients to develop and practice appropriate boundaries, skills, and gain personal insight. Therapy offers an opportunity to understand more about yourself assisting you to make changes that lead to greater happiness and satisfaction. I offer Psychotherapy to address: Relationship Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Post Abortion Healing, Guilt/Shame, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, and Interpersonal Relations.
(571) 989-7841 View (571) 989-7841
Photo of Crystal Desselle, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alexandria, VA
Crystal Desselle
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Hi! I'm Crystal Desselle, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in supervision. With a background in assisting children, adolescents, and adults, I deeply believe in the innate capacity for growth and healing within every individual. Often, all it requires is someone to accompany us on our journey, nudging us towards self-realization. I customize my methods to align with clients' unique circumstances, aiding them in nurturing the skills essential for reaching their aspirations.
Hi! I'm Crystal Desselle, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in supervision. With a background in assisting children, adolescents, and adults, I deeply believe in the innate capacity for growth and healing within every individual. Often, all it requires is someone to accompany us on our journey, nudging us towards self-realization. I customize my methods to align with clients' unique circumstances, aiding them in nurturing the skills essential for reaching their aspirations.
(571) 556-9575 View (571) 556-9575
Photo of Anita Wiles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Anita Wiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Greetings, I'm Anita Wiles, LCSW, with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I obtained my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been a licensed clinical social worker since 1995. Throughout my career, I've specialized in supporting victims of domestic violence, survivors of child sexual abuse, and individuals coping with various forms of trauma across diverse settings. Additionally, I possess extensive experience working with individuals dealing with substance use and abuse issues.
Greetings, I'm Anita Wiles, LCSW, with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. I obtained my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been a licensed clinical social worker since 1995. Throughout my career, I've specialized in supporting victims of domestic violence, survivors of child sexual abuse, and individuals coping with various forms of trauma across diverse settings. Additionally, I possess extensive experience working with individuals dealing with substance use and abuse issues.
(703) 940-1245 View (703) 940-1245
Photo of Brandie Chaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alexandria, VA
Brandie Chaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Brandie’s ideal client is an individual yearning for change; someone who may be currently hopeless but is motivated to make the changes they need. She believes that we all can live the life we dream of if we tap into the best parts of ourselves. She has worked with clients involved with the criminal justice system, juvenile court, and child welfare systems. Past clients have included those coping with homelessness, substance abuse, poverty, depression, anxiety, parenting issues, loss, grief, and domestic violence. She understands the impact of stress and wants her clients to be equipped to manage challenging situations without fear.
Brandie’s ideal client is an individual yearning for change; someone who may be currently hopeless but is motivated to make the changes they need. She believes that we all can live the life we dream of if we tap into the best parts of ourselves. She has worked with clients involved with the criminal justice system, juvenile court, and child welfare systems. Past clients have included those coping with homelessness, substance abuse, poverty, depression, anxiety, parenting issues, loss, grief, and domestic violence. She understands the impact of stress and wants her clients to be equipped to manage challenging situations without fear.
(571) 487-7635 View (571) 487-7635
Photo of Bonnie Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Bonnie Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Utilizing the most current research in neuroscience and attachment theory, I provide brain-based therapy for young adults and adults who need assistance navigating emotional pain and adjustment to life's challenges. The approach I use is strength-based, and the focus is to build resiliency by creating an environment of safety, flexibility, and humor. My goal is to support you as you resolve past hurts, identify and process present stressors and discover the power you need to live the life you dream.
Utilizing the most current research in neuroscience and attachment theory, I provide brain-based therapy for young adults and adults who need assistance navigating emotional pain and adjustment to life's challenges. The approach I use is strength-based, and the focus is to build resiliency by creating an environment of safety, flexibility, and humor. My goal is to support you as you resolve past hurts, identify and process present stressors and discover the power you need to live the life you dream.
(240) 204-6400 View (240) 204-6400
Photo of Sarah Dowd, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Sarah Dowd
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304
Need help changing your life? I am the type of therapist for those individuals that don't have tons of time to figure out their past life issues. Through assessments, I am able to develop and implement a future focused plan with clear goals and an estimated timeframe for achievement. I am more of a non-traditional therapist & most of my clients have tried and failed at more traditional clinical therapy. My clients are usually referred by word of mouth as a last resort in hopes to establish major life change.
Need help changing your life? I am the type of therapist for those individuals that don't have tons of time to figure out their past life issues. Through assessments, I am able to develop and implement a future focused plan with clear goals and an estimated timeframe for achievement. I am more of a non-traditional therapist & most of my clients have tried and failed at more traditional clinical therapy. My clients are usually referred by word of mouth as a last resort in hopes to establish major life change.
(571) 489-0425 View (571) 489-0425
Photo of Danielle J King, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Danielle J King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Life circumstances can sometimes leave you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, unheard, and disconnected. As difficult as seeking help may be, it is the first step to moving towards healing and healthier relationship with self and others. My clients are seeking a safe, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive space that leaves them feeling heard, validated, and connected. My specialties include relationship and familial issues, mood and anxiety disorders, children of divorce, trauma, women dealing with divorce, and couples. I am extensively trained in attachment and systems modalities, trauma-informed interventions, and mindfulness.
Life circumstances can sometimes leave you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, unheard, and disconnected. As difficult as seeking help may be, it is the first step to moving towards healing and healthier relationship with self and others. My clients are seeking a safe, non-judgmental, and culturally sensitive space that leaves them feeling heard, validated, and connected. My specialties include relationship and familial issues, mood and anxiety disorders, children of divorce, trauma, women dealing with divorce, and couples. I am extensively trained in attachment and systems modalities, trauma-informed interventions, and mindfulness.
(571) 556-9521 View (571) 556-9521
Photo of Nicole Moriarty: Complete Trauma Resolution, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alexandria, VA
Nicole Moriarty: Complete Trauma Resolution
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
There is a solution. There is hope. And there is healing. Anxiety, depression, disordered eating, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, disruption in relationships, substance abuse, and on and on. These are curable, changeable, healable issues. When you go straight to the root of the issue, you can bring deep, lasting change. And we now know that the root of every mental health disorder (and many physical diseases as well) is some form of unresolved trauma. Trauma refers to any moment in our lives that we were unsafe in some way. Big or small, single events or years-long patterns-if we aren't able to process it, we store it.
(855) 841-7271 View (855) 841-7271
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.