Photo of Maria Carolina De Bruyn, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Maria Carolina De Bruyn
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
A few of my specialties: children's issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, emotional intelligence, intercultural/interracial issues, foster care, adoption, attachment, OCD, male issues, teen/tween struggles, setting boundaries, dealing with/recovering from narcissistic relationships, sensory processing issues, loss, Christian spirituality.
My approach is person-centered, relationally-based, and narrative. I work with a wide variety of clientele, but some of my strengths include working with children and families, working with men, and integrating culture and spirituality, especially Christian spirituality, into the treatment plan, if desired.
A few of my specialties: children's issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, emotional intelligence, intercultural/interracial issues, foster care, adoption, attachment, OCD, male issues, teen/tween struggles, setting boundaries, dealing with/recovering from narcissistic relationships, sensory processing issues, loss, Christian spirituality.
My approach is person-centered, relationally-based, and narrative. I work with a wide variety of clientele, but some of my strengths include working with children and families, working with men, and integrating culture and spirituality, especially Christian spirituality, into the treatment plan, if desired.
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Photo of Sandra A Milton, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Sandra A Milton
Counselor, LICSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I also enjoy working with those dealing with adoption issues, women's issues and faith issues.
It is my hope that clients gain from counseling specific tools they can apply to their lives to feel better equipped in dealing effectively with their life circumstances. I tailor my counseling to the needs of the client, using various therapeutic techniques to provide clients skills such as communication, emotion management, coping, parenting, etc. I incorporate an educational component, presenting information to enhance knowledge regarding various issues that clients face. I often include homework to make use of the time between sessions. When desired by the client, I approach their circumstances from a biblical perspective.
I also enjoy working with those dealing with adoption issues, women's issues and faith issues.
It is my hope that clients gain from counseling specific tools they can apply to their lives to feel better equipped in dealing effectively with their life circumstances. I tailor my counseling to the needs of the client, using various therapeutic techniques to provide clients skills such as communication, emotion management, coping, parenting, etc. I incorporate an educational component, presenting information to enhance knowledge regarding various issues that clients face. I often include homework to make use of the time between sessions. When desired by the client, I approach their circumstances from a biblical perspective.
(855) 835-6580 x305 View (855) 835-6580 x305
Photo of Colleen Bebich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Colleen Bebich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
My style of therapy is warm, accepting and compassionate. I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate life's challenges and pursue personal growth. Therapy is the beginning of new possibilities and scheduling an appointment is a brave first step. I provide a safe space to share your story where you can explore difficult emotions and struggles. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult relationships, parenting struggles, grief or issues with work/life balance. You are the expert in your own life and your experiences are uniquely your own. We will work together to gain new skills and achieve desired goals.
My style of therapy is warm, accepting and compassionate. I am here to walk alongside you as you navigate life's challenges and pursue personal growth. Therapy is the beginning of new possibilities and scheduling an appointment is a brave first step. I provide a safe space to share your story where you can explore difficult emotions and struggles. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult relationships, parenting struggles, grief or issues with work/life balance. You are the expert in your own life and your experiences are uniquely your own. We will work together to gain new skills and achieve desired goals.
(253) 243-2486 View (253) 243-2486
Photo of Kelsey Roth, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Kelsey Roth
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I provide a safe space for my clients to be heard, understood, and supported. I believe counseling is a process in which I work with them to reflect on, develop, and shape their unique story. Everyone has intrinsic strengths, and I love helping clients identify and utilize their personal strengths to heal and grow. My goal is to create a space that allows for personal exploration, genuine healing, and skill development to help them become healthy and confident in their identity and path forward.
I provide a safe space for my clients to be heard, understood, and supported. I believe counseling is a process in which I work with them to reflect on, develop, and shape their unique story. Everyone has intrinsic strengths, and I love helping clients identify and utilize their personal strengths to heal and grow. My goal is to create a space that allows for personal exploration, genuine healing, and skill development to help them become healthy and confident in their identity and path forward.
(253) 487-0291 View (253) 487-0291
Photo of Dustin-Leigh Fowler, Psychologist in Gig Harbor, WA
Dustin-Leigh Fowler
Psychologist, PsyD, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98329  (Online Only)
I am experienced working with children, adults, couples, and families. Many times, people who call me are in distress, having tried what feels like everything, and they often feel frustrated and overwhelmed by their situation. My goal is to help individuals identify patterns of dysfunction that create problems for them. I work within the framework of an individual’s gifts and challenges to develop a strong relationship that allows for open communication and honesty. My strengths-based approach allows individuals to feel they have a voice and builds upon the good that is already taking place within their life and relationships.
I am experienced working with children, adults, couples, and families. Many times, people who call me are in distress, having tried what feels like everything, and they often feel frustrated and overwhelmed by their situation. My goal is to help individuals identify patterns of dysfunction that create problems for them. I work within the framework of an individual’s gifts and challenges to develop a strong relationship that allows for open communication and honesty. My strengths-based approach allows individuals to feel they have a voice and builds upon the good that is already taking place within their life and relationships.
(253) 400-2711 View (253) 400-2711
Photo of Nicole Stack, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gig Harbor, WA
Nicole Stack
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MPA, MPH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98329
Struggling to create healthy boundaries but fear others reactions? Has a history of trauma decreased your self-esteem? These scenarios can be isolating and scary; I strive to empower clients by reminding them who they are. I’m Nicole, Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. I enjoy working with clients to build a support system, increase self-worth, and confidence. Together, we'll create coping skills for challenging times so you can be your authentic self.
Struggling to create healthy boundaries but fear others reactions? Has a history of trauma decreased your self-esteem? These scenarios can be isolating and scary; I strive to empower clients by reminding them who they are. I’m Nicole, Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. I enjoy working with clients to build a support system, increase self-worth, and confidence. Together, we'll create coping skills for challenging times so you can be your authentic self.
(253) 400-3671 View (253) 400-3671
Photo of Jenny Grace Shaw, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Jenny Grace Shaw
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, CSC, HHP, NBCC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
We all experience speed bumps during our life journey. Though it may seem we are "lost"unsure of I believe the powers we are looking for are inside YOU! One simply needs to be validated, and to strengthen the emotional "muscles" that have grown weak--just as we exercise our bodies and our minds, we must exercise our emotional I truly believe we can not experience long term health unless we pay close attention to our Mind, Body and Spirit--the Emotional; our humanness. when we honor our truths, we will achieve our Authentic Self! I look forward to helping guide you towards your personal, goals. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF YOU
We all experience speed bumps during our life journey. Though it may seem we are "lost"unsure of I believe the powers we are looking for are inside YOU! One simply needs to be validated, and to strengthen the emotional "muscles" that have grown weak--just as we exercise our bodies and our minds, we must exercise our emotional I truly believe we can not experience long term health unless we pay close attention to our Mind, Body and Spirit--the Emotional; our humanness. when we honor our truths, we will achieve our Authentic Self! I look forward to helping guide you towards your personal, goals. NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE POWER OF YOU
(808) 736-4177 View (808) 736-4177

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Family Foundations Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Family Foundations Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fircrest, WA 98466
Choose from our counselors. See: www.ffctacoma.com. What's not working? What's painful enough that you'd like some help sorting through it? Family Foundations providers specialize in managing difficult circumstances and developing successful relationships with yourself and the important people in your life: significant-other, family, friends, peers, & co-workers. Please visit our website to learn more. We work with children, individuals, couples, and families. Together we'll learn and work toward ways to improve your life and relationships. See a list of providers by clicking on the website tab to the left.
Choose from our counselors. See: www.ffctacoma.com. What's not working? What's painful enough that you'd like some help sorting through it? Family Foundations providers specialize in managing difficult circumstances and developing successful relationships with yourself and the important people in your life: significant-other, family, friends, peers, & co-workers. Please visit our website to learn more. We work with children, individuals, couples, and families. Together we'll learn and work toward ways to improve your life and relationships. See a list of providers by clicking on the website tab to the left.
(253) 590-4235 View (253) 590-4235
Photo of Joshua Chambers, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Joshua Chambers
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98406
I am a therapist of color that is passionate about helping other people thrive in every area of life. Living in a society where we aren't given permission to express our emotions or given the skills to handle them can lead us to a place of feeling stuck, isolated, and confused. Whether it's feeling low or depressed from life circumstances, anger from past trauma and injustices, or just feeling tired of being sick and tired; I have experienced all of these things and want to help you examine and unpack the troubles you are experiencing in life. In my practice, I create a space for you to be the authentic you with no judgment or shame
I am a therapist of color that is passionate about helping other people thrive in every area of life. Living in a society where we aren't given permission to express our emotions or given the skills to handle them can lead us to a place of feeling stuck, isolated, and confused. Whether it's feeling low or depressed from life circumstances, anger from past trauma and injustices, or just feeling tired of being sick and tired; I have experienced all of these things and want to help you examine and unpack the troubles you are experiencing in life. In my practice, I create a space for you to be the authentic you with no judgment or shame
(253) 527-5982 View (253) 527-5982
Photo of Bryan Foster Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Bryan Foster Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Fircrest, WA 98466  (Online Only)
Exclusively telehealth/virtual. Accepting new clients. I HELP people. Whether your relationship is in turmoil or you are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief. If it's helping your child with behavior/emotional issues, or any other health/emotional concern. I have 20 years experience helping families and individuals navigate through the storms of life. I can help you do the same. I believe in giving clients (you) practical/useable tools that will help you overcome the worst that life can throw at you and enrich your life when the sailing is smooth. It's time to invest in yourself through the benefits of therapy.
Exclusively telehealth/virtual. Accepting new clients. I HELP people. Whether your relationship is in turmoil or you are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief. If it's helping your child with behavior/emotional issues, or any other health/emotional concern. I have 20 years experience helping families and individuals navigate through the storms of life. I can help you do the same. I believe in giving clients (you) practical/useable tools that will help you overcome the worst that life can throw at you and enrich your life when the sailing is smooth. It's time to invest in yourself through the benefits of therapy.
(253) 693-4904 View (253) 693-4904
Photo of Lindsey Moseman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Lindsey Moseman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98407
Not accepting new clients
Have you noticed changes within your child's behavior that leave you feeling confused as to what to do or say? Perhaps your child has been struggling with overwhelming anxiety or emotional outbursts. Or perhaps you've noticed your teenager begin to isolate, drop in their grades, and become overly self-critical. Children and teenagers are often communicating their needs through their behaviors, and it is often very difficult as a parent to know what to do. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling within difficult emotional experiences, transitions like divorce, or within relationships.
Have you noticed changes within your child's behavior that leave you feeling confused as to what to do or say? Perhaps your child has been struggling with overwhelming anxiety or emotional outbursts. Or perhaps you've noticed your teenager begin to isolate, drop in their grades, and become overly self-critical. Children and teenagers are often communicating their needs through their behaviors, and it is often very difficult as a parent to know what to do. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling within difficult emotional experiences, transitions like divorce, or within relationships.
(253) 733-0136 View (253) 733-0136

Online Therapists

Photo of Deb Culver, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Deb Culver
Counselor, LMHC, CGT, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
I also work with depression, anxiety, adoption, infertility, mood disorders, the emotional side of learning disorders and ADHD and more.
Are you struggling with life? Have you been trying to figure things out on your own but feel like you are not making progress? Do you wish you had more effective tools to help you navigate your problems? Do you want to become your best self? Sometimes we need someone to come alongside of us and help. I am passionate about working with clients to help them gain new perspectives, insights, and skills in an honest, supportive, collaborative, and non-judgmental way. Coming to counseling will be the beginning of a new you! As a Christian therapist, I also offer counseling from a Biblical perspective to help clients on their journey.
I also work with depression, anxiety, adoption, infertility, mood disorders, the emotional side of learning disorders and ADHD and more.
Are you struggling with life? Have you been trying to figure things out on your own but feel like you are not making progress? Do you wish you had more effective tools to help you navigate your problems? Do you want to become your best self? Sometimes we need someone to come alongside of us and help. I am passionate about working with clients to help them gain new perspectives, insights, and skills in an honest, supportive, collaborative, and non-judgmental way. Coming to counseling will be the beginning of a new you! As a Christian therapist, I also offer counseling from a Biblical perspective to help clients on their journey.
(360) 299-7994 View (360) 299-7994
Photo of Katie Schmitten, Pre-Licensed Professional in Gig Harbor, WA
Katie Schmitten
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSWA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108
Hello my name is Katie and it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new patients, teens 14 and older, and adults in Oregon and Washington. I have served in the field for 12 years and welcome populations of all demographics, ethnicities and cultures. I have extensive experience in school based settings assisting with issues such as complex trauma, self harm, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, divorce, adoption, children in the foster system, parent coaching, and other issues. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve healing and permanent change.
Hello my name is Katie and it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new patients, teens 14 and older, and adults in Oregon and Washington. I have served in the field for 12 years and welcome populations of all demographics, ethnicities and cultures. I have extensive experience in school based settings assisting with issues such as complex trauma, self harm, addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, life transitions, divorce, adoption, children in the foster system, parent coaching, and other issues. I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve healing and permanent change.
(206) 593-3834 View (206) 593-3834
Photo of Eric W Huenefeld, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Eric W Huenefeld
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodinville, WA 98072
I have experienced failed fertility, IVF, and adoption.
I help people (men, women, LGBTQ+, teens) transcend trauma and painful patterns, to help them uncover their potential and lead a joyful life. While we cannot change the past, I utilize EMDR and other techniques to reduce the disturbance that past events have on your mind and body. I am person-centered therapist who believes that my clients are the experts in their own lives. I will meet you where you are at. I provide a warm, judgment free space, strict confidentiality, and hope of healing. Reaching out is an act of courage that reaps surprising rewards. I look forward to meeting you and seeing if we are the right fit for you.
I have experienced failed fertility, IVF, and adoption.
I help people (men, women, LGBTQ+, teens) transcend trauma and painful patterns, to help them uncover their potential and lead a joyful life. While we cannot change the past, I utilize EMDR and other techniques to reduce the disturbance that past events have on your mind and body. I am person-centered therapist who believes that my clients are the experts in their own lives. I will meet you where you are at. I provide a warm, judgment free space, strict confidentiality, and hope of healing. Reaching out is an act of courage that reaps surprising rewards. I look forward to meeting you and seeing if we are the right fit for you.
(425) 448-8512 View (425) 448-8512
Photo of Maria Myers, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Maria Myers
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Compassionate listening with a comforting environment to be heard is what my clients experience. I concentrate on the heartache of grief/loss, infertility, managing everyday stress, and concerns around adoption reunion. Are you one in the twilight years of life reflecting on the past and wanting to share life experiences and plans for a legacy. I am here to listen and reassure you are not alone. A faith tradition can be vital to ones healing. Christianity is of personal importance to me and if desired will bring that perspective into our meetings and can offer prayer for strength and comfort.
Compassionate listening with a comforting environment to be heard is what my clients experience. I concentrate on the heartache of grief/loss, infertility, managing everyday stress, and concerns around adoption reunion. Are you one in the twilight years of life reflecting on the past and wanting to share life experiences and plans for a legacy. I am here to listen and reassure you are not alone. A faith tradition can be vital to ones healing. Christianity is of personal importance to me and if desired will bring that perspective into our meetings and can offer prayer for strength and comfort.
(206) 350-5744 View (206) 350-5744
Photo of Minhee J Cho, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Minhee J Cho
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, M, Ed, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
adoption, immigrants).
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and work with children/teens, individuals, couples, and families. Many are in pain or feel helpless from their struggles: A child/teen shows anxiety; an adult has difficulty in social relationships, or couples/families experience discord in conflict. My passion is to come alongside and help children/teens, couples, and their families with a systemic and holistic approach while they go through life challenges so they can thrive in their lives. 부부 및 가족관계 치료사, 아동 및 청소년 상담치료사로 이민사회에서 불안, 우울증, 관계불화로 갈등하는 분들을 돕고 있습니다. '불안한 아이 및 청소년'을 돕는 상담치료법과 '정서중심적 부부치료' 방법으로 상담치료를 합니다.
adoption, immigrants).
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and work with children/teens, individuals, couples, and families. Many are in pain or feel helpless from their struggles: A child/teen shows anxiety; an adult has difficulty in social relationships, or couples/families experience discord in conflict. My passion is to come alongside and help children/teens, couples, and their families with a systemic and holistic approach while they go through life challenges so they can thrive in their lives. 부부 및 가족관계 치료사, 아동 및 청소년 상담치료사로 이민사회에서 불안, 우울증, 관계불화로 갈등하는 분들을 돕고 있습니다. '불안한 아이 및 청소년'을 돕는 상담치료법과 '정서중심적 부부치료' 방법으로 상담치료를 합니다.
(206) 203-5215 View (206) 203-5215
Photo of Lacey Gray, Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Lacey Gray
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Longview, WA 98632
I have worked in the foster care system/challenges of adoption.
Hello and welcome! You have made a very brave choice to invest in yourself by coming to therapy. Whatever it is you hope to receive from our time together, my mission is to provide a safe, caring, challenging environment in which you can grow, come to know yourself more deeply and find ways to cope and heal. I became a therapist because I enjoy walking alongside people as they grow and discover the tools of change within themselves. I find that change comes best within relationship and feeling safe, validated and heard. Thrive Therapy LLC is designed with each person in mind. Therapy is uniquelly tailored to you as an individual.
I have worked in the foster care system/challenges of adoption.
Hello and welcome! You have made a very brave choice to invest in yourself by coming to therapy. Whatever it is you hope to receive from our time together, my mission is to provide a safe, caring, challenging environment in which you can grow, come to know yourself more deeply and find ways to cope and heal. I became a therapist because I enjoy walking alongside people as they grow and discover the tools of change within themselves. I find that change comes best within relationship and feeling safe, validated and heard. Thrive Therapy LLC is designed with each person in mind. Therapy is uniquelly tailored to you as an individual.
(360) 276-6897 View (360) 276-6897
Photo of The Lord Who Heals Christian Therapy in Gig Harbor, WA
The Lord Who Heals Christian Therapy
Not Verified Not Verified
Parkland, WA 98444  (Online Only)
Chris Cline, MA, has her Master's in Counseling and received her degrees from Regis University and Colorado Christian University. She has been working with children, teenagers, families, couples and individuals on topics of addictions, depression, sexual abuse, adoption, abandonment, attachment issues, domestic violence, wrestling with your relationship with God, trauma experienced while in the womb, gender identity, post traumatic stress disorder and conversion disorder. She has led groups on anger management, domestic violence, children of divorce, thinking errors, adolescent relationships and the masks we wear.
Chris Cline, MA, has her Master's in Counseling and received her degrees from Regis University and Colorado Christian University. She has been working with children, teenagers, families, couples and individuals on topics of addictions, depression, sexual abuse, adoption, abandonment, attachment issues, domestic violence, wrestling with your relationship with God, trauma experienced while in the womb, gender identity, post traumatic stress disorder and conversion disorder. She has led groups on anger management, domestic violence, children of divorce, thinking errors, adolescent relationships and the masks we wear.
(253) 201-7634 View (253) 201-7634
Photo of Ryan Burke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA
Ryan Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
Hi, I'm Ryan and am currently accepting new clients for individual counseling. I'd love to connect with you and be of assistance in addressing such issues as: trauma history, identity, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, spirituality, and life transitions. I love supporting people who have been impacted by adoption and those who struggle with addiction. I can help you understand the "why" behind your thoughts, attitudes, and actions, and how getting below the surface to the root is the key to healing and growth.
Hi, I'm Ryan and am currently accepting new clients for individual counseling. I'd love to connect with you and be of assistance in addressing such issues as: trauma history, identity, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, spirituality, and life transitions. I love supporting people who have been impacted by adoption and those who struggle with addiction. I can help you understand the "why" behind your thoughts, attitudes, and actions, and how getting below the surface to the root is the key to healing and growth.
(360) 842-8428 View (360) 842-8428
Photo of Mei Sims, Mental Health Counselor in Gig Harbor, WA
Mei Sims
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011  (Online Only)
Mei Sims is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has practiced Clinical Counseling/Psychotherapy in Seattle, Houston area and overseas for more than 15 years. She is also a certified clinical supervisor for her collaborative group. Her professional and life& work experiences enrich in relating to her clients' issues on work, family, and personal development. Mei also provides life &career coaching for professionals with diverse background, contracted by tech cooperation, such as Microsoft and Amazon. Mei strives to provide a safe place for hurting individuals to heal and to equip them to make life changes.
Mei Sims is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has practiced Clinical Counseling/Psychotherapy in Seattle, Houston area and overseas for more than 15 years. She is also a certified clinical supervisor for her collaborative group. Her professional and life& work experiences enrich in relating to her clients' issues on work, family, and personal development. Mei also provides life &career coaching for professionals with diverse background, contracted by tech cooperation, such as Microsoft and Amazon. Mei strives to provide a safe place for hurting individuals to heal and to equip them to make life changes.
(425) 224-6828 View (425) 224-6828
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.