Adoption Therapists in Fairfax, VA

Photo of Simply Mindful Solutions, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Simply Mindful Solutions, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
At Simply Mindful Solutions, we believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship. When someone chooses to walk in the door to begin their healing journey, it’s an honor that their trust has been placed in us to begin that journey with them. Our combined experience includes working with clients on a variety of issues to include domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, ADHD, Autism, foster care/adoption and depression.
At Simply Mindful Solutions, we believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship. When someone chooses to walk in the door to begin their healing journey, it’s an honor that their trust has been placed in us to begin that journey with them. Our combined experience includes working with clients on a variety of issues to include domestic violence, trauma, anxiety, childhood abuse/neglect, sexual abuse, ADHD, Autism, foster care/adoption and depression.
(571) 339-3119 View (571) 339-3119
Photo of Katherine Hannon: Fertility & Infertility Therapy, Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Katherine Hannon: Fertility & Infertility Therapy
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, MA, BCC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced working with: * explained/unexplained infertility * male/female factors * secondary Infertility * third-party options like donor egg, donor sperm, embryo adoption * surrogacy * adoption * miscarriage * infant loss * pregnancy and parenting after infertility * high-risk pregnancy * multiple gestation (twins, triplets) * pregnancy reductions * GLBT family building * single motherhood * living child-free.
Finding a therapist who is a great match is essential when you turn to counseling to help build or grow your family. You likely feel stressed, depressed, or isolated as you have encountered setbacks. I help individuals and couples experiencing infertility, coping with pregnancy loss, considering third-party reproduction or adoption, or deciding to live child-free. I have more than 20 years working with RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association. We will work as a team as I teach you to make challenging decisions, manage stress, enhance your relationship, heal from loss, and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.
I am experienced working with: * explained/unexplained infertility * male/female factors * secondary Infertility * third-party options like donor egg, donor sperm, embryo adoption * surrogacy * adoption * miscarriage * infant loss * pregnancy and parenting after infertility * high-risk pregnancy * multiple gestation (twins, triplets) * pregnancy reductions * GLBT family building * single motherhood * living child-free.
Finding a therapist who is a great match is essential when you turn to counseling to help build or grow your family. You likely feel stressed, depressed, or isolated as you have encountered setbacks. I help individuals and couples experiencing infertility, coping with pregnancy loss, considering third-party reproduction or adoption, or deciding to live child-free. I have more than 20 years working with RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association. We will work as a team as I teach you to make challenging decisions, manage stress, enhance your relationship, heal from loss, and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.
(703) 951-4641 View (703) 951-4641
Photo of Maria A Hylton, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Maria A Hylton, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Has your life gotten off track? Do you need an ASAM substance abuse evaluation because of an alcohol/drug related charge? Has alcohol affected your health or liver status? Have your life goals been put on hold because of an alcohol/drug related issue? Is it time to evaluate your relationship with alcohol/drugs and maybe make some changes? Do you need outpatient follow up from intensive treatment? Are issues such as depression, anxiety, stress management, life skills, grief, post partum depression, or adoption getting in your way? Come meet with a counselor skilled in substance abuse and mental health services to discuss options.
Has your life gotten off track? Do you need an ASAM substance abuse evaluation because of an alcohol/drug related charge? Has alcohol affected your health or liver status? Have your life goals been put on hold because of an alcohol/drug related issue? Is it time to evaluate your relationship with alcohol/drugs and maybe make some changes? Do you need outpatient follow up from intensive treatment? Are issues such as depression, anxiety, stress management, life skills, grief, post partum depression, or adoption getting in your way? Come meet with a counselor skilled in substance abuse and mental health services to discuss options.
(703) 476-2348 View (703) 476-2348
Photo of Child, Teen and Family Therapy at CCHC, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Fairfax, VA
Child, Teen and Family Therapy at CCHC
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, LMFT-R, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
At The Center for Connection, Healing & Change we specialize in working with toddlers, children, teens, and their families. Our family therapists are skilled in working with relationships, attachment, anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, behavioral concerns, academics, trauma, life transitions, somatic issues, identity, self-worth, trauma, adoption, and loss. As each family is different, we utilize evidence-based models to help you find real-world solutions that fit you and your unique family needs. A full description of our treatment philosophy and the areas we work with can be found at www.thecenterforconnection.com
At The Center for Connection, Healing & Change we specialize in working with toddlers, children, teens, and their families. Our family therapists are skilled in working with relationships, attachment, anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, behavioral concerns, academics, trauma, life transitions, somatic issues, identity, self-worth, trauma, adoption, and loss. As each family is different, we utilize evidence-based models to help you find real-world solutions that fit you and your unique family needs. A full description of our treatment philosophy and the areas we work with can be found at www.thecenterforconnection.com
(571) 380-8411 View (571) 380-8411
Photo of Sarah Hagen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Sarah Hagen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I help women through trying to conceive, infertility issues, grief and loss, adoption, pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Becoming a mother does not always go as expected, and parenting little humans can bring up a lot of big feelings. I am certified in perinatal mental health with specific training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, like postpartum (PP) depression, PP anxiety and PP OCD. I understand the unique experience of taking on this new role while still trying to maintain your own identity. I am here to support you throughout your journey of becoming a parent so that you can be the best version of yourself possible.
I help women through trying to conceive, infertility issues, grief and loss, adoption, pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond. Becoming a mother does not always go as expected, and parenting little humans can bring up a lot of big feelings. I am certified in perinatal mental health with specific training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, like postpartum (PP) depression, PP anxiety and PP OCD. I understand the unique experience of taking on this new role while still trying to maintain your own identity. I am here to support you throughout your journey of becoming a parent so that you can be the best version of yourself possible.
(571) 748-4202 View (571) 748-4202
Photo of Lupita Rodriguez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Lupita Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I am particularly interested in working with folks with trauma, I am trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, Adoption competency, and Trauma-focused CBT.
Welcome, my name is Lupita. I am an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) based in Virginia. I enjoy mixing modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing and more depending on the unique needs and personalities of my clients. I am particularly interested in working with folks with trauma. I am trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, Adoption competency, and Trauma-focused CBT. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming counselor and ally. I am also bilingual (English/Spanish).
I am particularly interested in working with folks with trauma, I am trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, Adoption competency, and Trauma-focused CBT.
Welcome, my name is Lupita. I am an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) based in Virginia. I enjoy mixing modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing and more depending on the unique needs and personalities of my clients. I am particularly interested in working with folks with trauma. I am trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, Adoption competency, and Trauma-focused CBT. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming counselor and ally. I am also bilingual (English/Spanish).
(804) 597-3816 View (804) 597-3816
Photo of Maureen Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Maureen Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
With more than twenty years of experience, I have had the opportunity and privilege to participate in the hard work that individuals, couples and families have done to lead fuller and more satisfying lives. I work with adults and families dealing with anxiety, depression, adoption, trauma, divorce, deployment, grief and loss. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Practitioner. In addition to therapy, I provide individual and group Clinical Supervision for Licensure.
With more than twenty years of experience, I have had the opportunity and privilege to participate in the hard work that individuals, couples and families have done to lead fuller and more satisfying lives. I work with adults and families dealing with anxiety, depression, adoption, trauma, divorce, deployment, grief and loss. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Practitioner. In addition to therapy, I provide individual and group Clinical Supervision for Licensure.
(703) 349-4538 View (703) 349-4538
Photo of Alison Gardner, Psychologist in Fairfax, VA
Alison Gardner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22033
For the past 15 years, I have been committed to working with preschool and school-aged children and their families who are struggling with anxiety and other emotional and behavioral regulation difficulties. I also support children and families through the complicated emotions of divorce, adoption, and other losses as well as the stress and threats to self-esteem that can accompany learning challenges, ADHD and social difficulties. I partner comprehensively with children, parents, schools, and other involved professionals with the aim of building the strongest possible foundation from which children can grow and thrive.
For the past 15 years, I have been committed to working with preschool and school-aged children and their families who are struggling with anxiety and other emotional and behavioral regulation difficulties. I also support children and families through the complicated emotions of divorce, adoption, and other losses as well as the stress and threats to self-esteem that can accompany learning challenges, ADHD and social difficulties. I partner comprehensively with children, parents, schools, and other involved professionals with the aim of building the strongest possible foundation from which children can grow and thrive.
(703) 940-9708 View (703) 940-9708
Photo of Elizabeth Lopez-Cardona, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Elizabeth Lopez-Cardona
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (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 Rene Chandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Rene Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Hello! I am located in Atlanta, Georgia, but provide telehealth in MD, VA, FL, WV, & NC. I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adult individuals who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, or have experienced trauma. I have extensive experience supporting the adoption triad, and LGBTQ+ kids, families, and individuals. Rather than have a “one size fits all” perspective, I use a blend of treatment approaches to meet each client’s individual needs including play therapy, mindfulness and body-based work, CBT, ERP, EMDR, attachment and trauma-informed approaches.
Hello! I am located in Atlanta, Georgia, but provide telehealth in MD, VA, FL, WV, & NC. I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adult individuals who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, or have experienced trauma. I have extensive experience supporting the adoption triad, and LGBTQ+ kids, families, and individuals. Rather than have a “one size fits all” perspective, I use a blend of treatment approaches to meet each client’s individual needs including play therapy, mindfulness and body-based work, CBT, ERP, EMDR, attachment and trauma-informed approaches.
(678) 737-4665 View (678) 737-4665
Photo of Mind Chronicles Therapeutic Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Mind Chronicles Therapeutic Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 20153  (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 Susannah J. Volkers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Susannah J. Volkers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MABC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (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 Melissa Douglas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Melissa Douglas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22032
Everyone needs a place for space. A space to be heard. A space to share whatever you want. A space to process feelings, try out new perspectives, laugh, cry, grieve, be angry, talk about betrayal, to fight inner demons, to be brave, to be nervous, to simply BE whoever you are. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience providing space for people to process whatever they are dealing with. People come to me with a wide range of different issues. I am an eclectic therapist but tend to focus on using cognitive behavioral therapy. I love to meet new people, and I would love to work with you.
Everyone needs a place for space. A space to be heard. A space to share whatever you want. A space to process feelings, try out new perspectives, laugh, cry, grieve, be angry, talk about betrayal, to fight inner demons, to be brave, to be nervous, to simply BE whoever you are. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience providing space for people to process whatever they are dealing with. People come to me with a wide range of different issues. I am an eclectic therapist but tend to focus on using cognitive behavioral therapy. I love to meet new people, and I would love to work with you.
(571) 554-2394 View (571) 554-2394
Photo of Matt Dean, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Matt Dean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
After serving the Northern Virginia area for the last 23 years in prominent agency and home based counseling settings, I have established myself as a successful psychotherapist. While using a Cognitive Behavioral and Brief Therapy Approach, I am able to help individuals experiencing depressed moods, anxiety issues, anger management issues, loss/ grief, PTSD, abuse and relationship issues.
After serving the Northern Virginia area for the last 23 years in prominent agency and home based counseling settings, I have established myself as a successful psychotherapist. While using a Cognitive Behavioral and Brief Therapy Approach, I am able to help individuals experiencing depressed moods, anxiety issues, anger management issues, loss/ grief, PTSD, abuse and relationship issues.
(703) 468-8236 View (703) 468-8236
Photo of Dana Dixon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Dana Dixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
At Enamour Mental Health & Wellness, LLC, our goal is to provide a safe, therapuetic space for our clients to be heard, to cope, and to heal. Our therapists have a reputation for listening closely, challenging, and inspiring clients to work through their difficulties and make meaningful change in the areas of their lives they would like to see a difference. Our clients come from many different backgrounds, are of all ages, and each have individual goals we hope to assist them in achieving. Our practice provides thoughtfully curated wellness experiences tailored to fit each client’s needs.
At Enamour Mental Health & Wellness, LLC, our goal is to provide a safe, therapuetic space for our clients to be heard, to cope, and to heal. Our therapists have a reputation for listening closely, challenging, and inspiring clients to work through their difficulties and make meaningful change in the areas of their lives they would like to see a difference. Our clients come from many different backgrounds, are of all ages, and each have individual goals we hope to assist them in achieving. Our practice provides thoughtfully curated wellness experiences tailored to fit each client’s needs.
(757) 941-4096 View (757) 941-4096
Photo of Willi Dalaba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Willi Dalaba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSS
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 20151
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 Kyle Stephan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Fairfax, VA
Kyle Stephan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
The building blocks of your identity are rooted in the relational experiences you had as a child, the world you lived in, the resources available, and the challenges life sent your way. You may have learned that some emotions or needs were not acceptable or tolerable, some needs would need to be met indirectly through adaptations (such as perfectionism, people pleasing, playing small or withdrawing), or that some needs might not be met at all and would need to be abandoned or minimized. My role is to help you make sense of who you are, how you got here, your patterns of relating, and how to create the relationships you long for.
The building blocks of your identity are rooted in the relational experiences you had as a child, the world you lived in, the resources available, and the challenges life sent your way. You may have learned that some emotions or needs were not acceptable or tolerable, some needs would need to be met indirectly through adaptations (such as perfectionism, people pleasing, playing small or withdrawing), or that some needs might not be met at all and would need to be abandoned or minimized. My role is to help you make sense of who you are, how you got here, your patterns of relating, and how to create the relationships you long for.
(703) 420-5297 View (703) 420-5297
Photo of Dessia Crawmer, LCSW Private Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Dessia Crawmer, LCSW Private Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I believe therapeutic skill combined with sensitive attunement can illuminate a healing path, removing psychological barriers and empowering clients to reach their full potential. I am a highly competent psychotherapist with twenty-two years of counseling experience. I specialize in creating a safe environment to explore issues that will result in integration and lasting change. The relationship bond that I form with each client, I consider a sacred trust to be guarded and respected. I use a deeply effective EMDR model which produces desirable results proven by research. I have EMDR certification . I counsel individuals, couples, and families. Visit my website for more information.
I believe therapeutic skill combined with sensitive attunement can illuminate a healing path, removing psychological barriers and empowering clients to reach their full potential. I am a highly competent psychotherapist with twenty-two years of counseling experience. I specialize in creating a safe environment to explore issues that will result in integration and lasting change. The relationship bond that I form with each client, I consider a sacred trust to be guarded and respected. I use a deeply effective EMDR model which produces desirable results proven by research. I have EMDR certification . I counsel individuals, couples, and families. Visit my website for more information.
(703) 496-4550 View (703) 496-4550
Photo of Stephanie Hall Rutledge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Fairfax, VA
Stephanie Hall Rutledge
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
In addition to maintaining a clinical practice, I am chair and professor in the Department of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Emory & Henry. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in grief counseling, trauma work, relationship concerns, and family conflict. I am an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. I am also trained in experiential modalities including Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and EMDR. Please reach out if you would like to schedule a quick call to see if we would be a good team!
In addition to maintaining a clinical practice, I am chair and professor in the Department of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Emory & Henry. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, specializing in grief counseling, trauma work, relationship concerns, and family conflict. I am an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. I am also trained in experiential modalities including Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and EMDR. Please reach out if you would like to schedule a quick call to see if we would be a good team!
(571) 506-6491 View (571) 506-6491
Photo of Fairfax Place Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Fairfax, VA
Fairfax Place Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Members of our community have experienced interpersonal and structural violence, attachment disruptions and loss, prejudice and injustice, and feelings of vulnerability and uncertainty. Our expertise and specialized training provides individualized support that recognizes the uniqueness of each person’s experience in the world. Our clinicians help clients develop insight into how they have come to experience their inner and external worlds somatically, cognitively, and emotionally. We give attention and care to building skills that strengthen resilience, coping, and positive change.
Members of our community have experienced interpersonal and structural violence, attachment disruptions and loss, prejudice and injustice, and feelings of vulnerability and uncertainty. Our expertise and specialized training provides individualized support that recognizes the uniqueness of each person’s experience in the world. Our clinicians help clients develop insight into how they have come to experience their inner and external worlds somatically, cognitively, and emotionally. We give attention and care to building skills that strengthen resilience, coping, and positive change.
(571) 520-4561 View (571) 520-4561
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.