Photo of Betsy Hudson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Betsy Hudson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23220
I am TAC-certified (Training in Adoption Competency) & former Battering Intervention Program facilitator.
Are you suffering from the end of a relationship? A job? Do you feel like you are in crisis, or no longer feel like yourself? Maybe you’re realizing that your life as it is in this moment is not working for you. Perhaps you feel alone, lost, or at a loss for what to do. Congratulations on taking the first step to finding relief and taking control. Life is too short to surrender to bad relationships, hold grudges, let trauma control us, or to be anxious or angry all the time. You may feel stuck, but there is hope.
I am TAC-certified (Training in Adoption Competency) & former Battering Intervention Program facilitator.
Are you suffering from the end of a relationship? A job? Do you feel like you are in crisis, or no longer feel like yourself? Maybe you’re realizing that your life as it is in this moment is not working for you. Perhaps you feel alone, lost, or at a loss for what to do. Congratulations on taking the first step to finding relief and taking control. Life is too short to surrender to bad relationships, hold grudges, let trauma control us, or to be anxious or angry all the time. You may feel stuck, but there is hope.
(804) 294-4421 View (804) 294-4421
Photo of Carroll Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Carroll Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Maybe you've seen lots of different therapists, how will adoption focused counseling be different? As a transracial adoptee myself, I have personal insight and have worked with many families like yours.
Finding a therapist you connect with can feel so overwhelming you avoid it. But that is probably why you're here, because there have been things you've been avoiding and you're ready to get some help. Being foster and adoptive parents is way harder than most people understand, especially those who haven't experienced the invasive and arduous process. As a teen or young adult, you might be feeling lost or angry. You might be having a harder time than others figuring out who are you are and where you fit in the world. My style fuses warmth, humor, and directness.
Maybe you've seen lots of different therapists, how will adoption focused counseling be different? As a transracial adoptee myself, I have personal insight and have worked with many families like yours.
Finding a therapist you connect with can feel so overwhelming you avoid it. But that is probably why you're here, because there have been things you've been avoiding and you're ready to get some help. Being foster and adoptive parents is way harder than most people understand, especially those who haven't experienced the invasive and arduous process. As a teen or young adult, you might be feeling lost or angry. You might be having a harder time than others figuring out who are you are and where you fit in the world. My style fuses warmth, humor, and directness.
(540) 401-5455 View (540) 401-5455
Photo of Mari J Itzkowitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
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 Kimberly A Hines, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Kimberly A Hines
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist. I consider therapy to be my life's work and find it an honor to be entrusted with being a vessel for others each day. I have vast experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. I specialize in working with issues related to adoption, foster care, sexual abuse, complex trauma, PTSD, attachment, depression, anxiety as well as grief and loss. I am passionate and committed to my work with children, adolescents and their families.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Play Therapist. I consider therapy to be my life's work and find it an honor to be entrusted with being a vessel for others each day. I have vast experience working with children, adolescents, young adults and families. I specialize in working with issues related to adoption, foster care, sexual abuse, complex trauma, PTSD, attachment, depression, anxiety as well as grief and loss. I am passionate and committed to my work with children, adolescents and their families.
(804) 299-4490 View (804) 299-4490
Photo of Andrea Zalzal Sanderson, Counselor in Virginia
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 Autumnleaf Group, Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Autumnleaf Group, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Burke, VA 22015
The desire to experience relief in your current situation has led you to this very moment. We are here to help you. We work with clients who are ready to disrupt old patterns that no longer serve them and are experiencing circumstances like trauma (stemming from past/recent events), relationship concerns, stress, grief/loss, anxiety, divorce, parenting, transitions in life/work, seeking intrapersonal growth, money relationship/behavior struggles, self-esteem, family conflict, adoption/attachment, anger management and adjustment difficulties.
The desire to experience relief in your current situation has led you to this very moment. We are here to help you. We work with clients who are ready to disrupt old patterns that no longer serve them and are experiencing circumstances like trauma (stemming from past/recent events), relationship concerns, stress, grief/loss, anxiety, divorce, parenting, transitions in life/work, seeking intrapersonal growth, money relationship/behavior struggles, self-esteem, family conflict, adoption/attachment, anger management and adjustment difficulties.
(703) 951-4707 x103 View (703) 951-4707 x103
Photo of Laurie Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Laurie Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Adoption and grief work are both specialties.
Your teen’s grades are terrible and she isolates in her room, your adopted child struggles to have any healthy relationships or you are drowning in work and family and can’t find a moment to breathe? I get it! Together we will begin the healing process. I listen, you vent, we laugh and there are tears. Slowly the weight feels less heavy and, one step at a time, hope and relief turn into peace and joy . It's scary, but it's worth it! Take a chance on yourself
Adoption and grief work are both specialties.
Your teen’s grades are terrible and she isolates in her room, your adopted child struggles to have any healthy relationships or you are drowning in work and family and can’t find a moment to breathe? I get it! Together we will begin the healing process. I listen, you vent, we laugh and there are tears. Slowly the weight feels less heavy and, one step at a time, hope and relief turn into peace and joy . It's scary, but it's worth it! Take a chance on yourself
(703) 910-5977 View (703) 910-5977
Katy Dooley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I completed a post-graduate specialization in Fertility Counseling and have expertise in supporting clients currently building their families or seeking to build their families through ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology), donor options, adoption, and surrogacy.
Through my compassionate and holistic approaches, I aim to create a safe and nurturing space for my clients to explore and prioritize their mental health along the therapeutic journey. My therapeutic framework is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, strengths-based approaches, and trauma-informed care which I use to empower clients to harness their inner resilience.
I completed a post-graduate specialization in Fertility Counseling and have expertise in supporting clients currently building their families or seeking to build their families through ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology), donor options, adoption, and surrogacy.
Through my compassionate and holistic approaches, I aim to create a safe and nurturing space for my clients to explore and prioritize their mental health along the therapeutic journey. My therapeutic framework is grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, strengths-based approaches, and trauma-informed care which I use to empower clients to harness their inner resilience.
(757) 520-0753 View (757) 520-0753
Photo of Kim Pinto The Healing Project, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Kim Pinto The Healing Project
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCN, TF-CBT, CFTP, CCTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise include trauma, attachment, adoption issues, parent-child relationships, and mood disorders.
Please visit the link beneath my picture to tour our website and explore all of the clinicians available at The Healing Project. Sometimes life is hard! When you find life challenging, I specialize in helping you find your true north. Together we will develop a plan to get you back on track by making healthy changes. Whether you are dealing with sadness, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, fragile self-esteem, or just feelings of being overwhelmed with life, I am here to listen, guide and empower you to discover your inner strength, your courage and your innate ability to thrive.
Areas of expertise include trauma, attachment, adoption issues, parent-child relationships, and mood disorders.
Please visit the link beneath my picture to tour our website and explore all of the clinicians available at The Healing Project. Sometimes life is hard! When you find life challenging, I specialize in helping you find your true north. Together we will develop a plan to get you back on track by making healthy changes. Whether you are dealing with sadness, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, fragile self-esteem, or just feelings of being overwhelmed with life, I am here to listen, guide and empower you to discover your inner strength, your courage and your innate ability to thrive.
(757) 378-0948 View (757) 378-0948
Photo of Emily Webb Olsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Emily Webb Olsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashland, VA 23005  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of modalities and have been in the field of trauma, adoption, and attachment sine 2011.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and deep level healing? I utilize somatic therapy and trauma therapy approaches that helps you recognize our deep connection between the body and mind, offering you a holistic path to emotional well-being. I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and build a foundation for lasting transformation. I enjoy working with other mental health professionals and teachers, and I offer sliding scale for those who are just starting their profession.
I use a variety of modalities and have been in the field of trauma, adoption, and attachment sine 2011.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and deep level healing? I utilize somatic therapy and trauma therapy approaches that helps you recognize our deep connection between the body and mind, offering you a holistic path to emotional well-being. I am committed to creating a safe and empathetic space where you can explore your experiences, uncover your strengths, and build a foundation for lasting transformation. I enjoy working with other mental health professionals and teachers, and I offer sliding scale for those who are just starting their profession.
(540) 235-5664 View (540) 235-5664
Photo of Heather Clifft, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Heather Clifft
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
I am an Adoption Competent Counselor who will assist individuals and families touched by adoption in all stages of the adoption process.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with many years of experience partnering with individuals in their journeys of healing and growth. It is my honor to assist you in navigating transitions and stressors throughout the lifespan. Each person experiences unique needs. I adjust my counseling approach to best meet your needs to support your success and growth. Together we will develop a plan to manage your current challenges and symptoms and to move you into a place of peace and betterment.
I am an Adoption Competent Counselor who will assist individuals and families touched by adoption in all stages of the adoption process.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with many years of experience partnering with individuals in their journeys of healing and growth. It is my honor to assist you in navigating transitions and stressors throughout the lifespan. Each person experiences unique needs. I adjust my counseling approach to best meet your needs to support your success and growth. Together we will develop a plan to manage your current challenges and symptoms and to move you into a place of peace and betterment.
(540) 642-1599 View (540) 642-1599
Photo of Emma Wanroy, Counselor in Virginia
Emma Wanroy
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
Because of my lived experience as an adoptee, and training as an adoption competent therapist, I am most passionate about helping other adoptees navigate their identity and better understand how their adoption has impacted them throughout their lives.
I'm only seeing clients located in Maryland and fully virtual! I believe by exploring our past experiences and relationships we can find answers to better understand our own behaviors and thought processes. Our best healing happens throughout the context of a safe relationship and that is what I offer in therapy; a safe place where my client can explore their pain, trauma, hurt, and confusion in order to heal and live the most meaningful life possible. My clients know what their goals are and are excited to get to work but may need more accountability or support. Sometimes they aren't so clear and I can help with that, too!
Because of my lived experience as an adoptee, and training as an adoption competent therapist, I am most passionate about helping other adoptees navigate their identity and better understand how their adoption has impacted them throughout their lives.
I'm only seeing clients located in Maryland and fully virtual! I believe by exploring our past experiences and relationships we can find answers to better understand our own behaviors and thought processes. Our best healing happens throughout the context of a safe relationship and that is what I offer in therapy; a safe place where my client can explore their pain, trauma, hurt, and confusion in order to heal and live the most meaningful life possible. My clients know what their goals are and are excited to get to work but may need more accountability or support. Sometimes they aren't so clear and I can help with that, too!
(240) 512-8119 View (240) 512-8119
Photo of Christa Carlton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Christa Carlton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people impacted by adoption and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, identity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
I specialize in working with people impacted by adoption and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, identity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
(443) 785-2982 View (443) 785-2982
Photo of Jonathan Christophel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Jonathan Christophel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22201
My clinical areas of specialization and interests include, but are not limited to, adoption, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and grief and loss.
I look forward to working with you, or your children, in overcoming current obstacles and life challenges. In my experience in working with adults, children, and families, they have all the strengths and resources they need within themselves, and can reach their full potential within a safe, empathic therapeutic relationship.
My clinical areas of specialization and interests include, but are not limited to, adoption, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and grief and loss.
I look forward to working with you, or your children, in overcoming current obstacles and life challenges. In my experience in working with adults, children, and families, they have all the strengths and resources they need within themselves, and can reach their full potential within a safe, empathic therapeutic relationship.
(202) 902-8779 View (202) 902-8779
Photo of Griff Doyle, Psychologist in Virginia
Griff Doyle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
I have spent 42 years treating adults and couples suffering from depression, disabling anxiety, repeated relational problems, trauma, and grief.I also speciaize in child developmental and play therapies with a range of challenges for which I design treatment plans individually. I determine the course of child treatment according to my assessment of their level of development. I involve parents to varying extents in the therapy. Over the years, I have become most specialized working with separation/divorce, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral, and neuro-developmental, and adoption difficulties for children and their families.
I have spent 42 years treating adults and couples suffering from depression, disabling anxiety, repeated relational problems, trauma, and grief.I also speciaize in child developmental and play therapies with a range of challenges for which I design treatment plans individually. I determine the course of child treatment according to my assessment of their level of development. I involve parents to varying extents in the therapy. Over the years, I have become most specialized working with separation/divorce, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral, and neuro-developmental, and adoption difficulties for children and their families.
(301) 652-8308 View (301) 652-8308
Photo of Ioana Marcus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Ioana Marcus
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, GEP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
I work with adolescent and adult clients navigating anxiety and depression, recovery from eating disorders, trauma, developmental trauma/ adoption.
My practice is founded on creating a safe space for you to work on your most authentic, whole and healthy self. My work with you is focused not only on understanding your past experiences, whether family, relationships, traumas or mental health concerns that have been hindering your growth, but also supporting you to step into your life NOW. I will support you and walk the walk with you. We will explore how to fully live and thrive in the present, grow to your fullest potential, way beyond what you imagine for yourself.
I work with adolescent and adult clients navigating anxiety and depression, recovery from eating disorders, trauma, developmental trauma/ adoption.
My practice is founded on creating a safe space for you to work on your most authentic, whole and healthy self. My work with you is focused not only on understanding your past experiences, whether family, relationships, traumas or mental health concerns that have been hindering your growth, but also supporting you to step into your life NOW. I will support you and walk the walk with you. We will explore how to fully live and thrive in the present, grow to your fullest potential, way beyond what you imagine for yourself.
(703) 997-6804 View (703) 997-6804
Photo of Doreen M Nagurny, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Doreen M Nagurny
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
Doreen earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Cornell University and her Masters of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University. She is a National Certified counselor and a member of American Counseling Association (ACA) as a pre-licensed professional counselor. Doreen has a broad experience handling a wide spectrum of neurological and psychological conditions. She treats children, teens, adults, and couples presenting with anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, trauma, and behavioral and relationship issues. Additionally, she works with adults with memory/dementia challenges and their families.
Doreen earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Cornell University and her Masters of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Divine Mercy University. She is a National Certified counselor and a member of American Counseling Association (ACA) as a pre-licensed professional counselor. Doreen has a broad experience handling a wide spectrum of neurological and psychological conditions. She treats children, teens, adults, and couples presenting with anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, trauma, and behavioral and relationship issues. Additionally, she works with adults with memory/dementia challenges and their families.
(540) 516-3385 View (540) 516-3385
Photo of Katherine Hannon: Fertility & Infertility Therapy, Counselor in Virginia
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 Cherra Barbour-Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Cherra Barbour-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd , LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
Are you pregnant and experiencing some anxiety related to being a Mom? Do you find yourself crying, feeling overwhelmed or wanting to be alone? Are you in a stage of life transition? With over 20 years as a licensed mental health professional, I specialize in helping women manage life transitions, postpartum depression, anxiety and grief. I also have extensive experience and training working with foster care and adoption issues. As a certified Prepare Enrich facilitator, I also assist premarital and married couples with assessing their strengths, opportunities for growth, and learning skills to strengthen their relationship.
Are you pregnant and experiencing some anxiety related to being a Mom? Do you find yourself crying, feeling overwhelmed or wanting to be alone? Are you in a stage of life transition? With over 20 years as a licensed mental health professional, I specialize in helping women manage life transitions, postpartum depression, anxiety and grief. I also have extensive experience and training working with foster care and adoption issues. As a certified Prepare Enrich facilitator, I also assist premarital and married couples with assessing their strengths, opportunities for growth, and learning skills to strengthen their relationship.
(757) 210-5672 View (757) 210-5672
Photo of Ellie Mental Health Of Woodbridge - Laura Schoenborn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Ellie Mental Health Of Woodbridge - Laura Schoenborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
She has experience working with people who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and adoption.
Do you ever feel like you can not get out of bed? Are there days you feel like you cannot go on? Laura Schoenborn is a Graduate of George Mason University and has experience working in community based, and Private Practice Setting. She has experience working with teens, adults and families.
She has experience working with people who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and adoption.
Do you ever feel like you can not get out of bed? Are there days you feel like you cannot go on? Laura Schoenborn is a Graduate of George Mason University and has experience working in community based, and Private Practice Setting. She has experience working with teens, adults and families.
(571) 992-0164 View (571) 992-0164
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.