Adoption Therapists in Port Hadlock, WA

Photo of Lisa Madelle Bottomley, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Madelle Bottomley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Hadlock, WA 98339
Currently my Insurance slots are full, I have limited space for self pay clients only. .......The soul can find it's self as long as it knows some one will hold it gently and carry it's song until it is ready to sing again. USING a variety of approaches for creative expression ( Body Focused awareness, Art materials, Writing, Sand Tray, Play therapy, dream work...) and drawing on extensive experience and training in Internal Family Systems, Adult & Child Attachment, and Trauma Recovery Work, clients can work with trauma and find ways to shift debilitating internal patterns and tensions .
Currently my Insurance slots are full, I have limited space for self pay clients only. .......The soul can find it's self as long as it knows some one will hold it gently and carry it's song until it is ready to sing again. USING a variety of approaches for creative expression ( Body Focused awareness, Art materials, Writing, Sand Tray, Play therapy, dream work...) and drawing on extensive experience and training in Internal Family Systems, Adult & Child Attachment, and Trauma Recovery Work, clients can work with trauma and find ways to shift debilitating internal patterns and tensions .
(360) 774-0790 View (360) 774-0790

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melody McKibbin, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Melody McKibbin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Port Ludlow, WA 98365  (Online Only)
Whether it's facing off against anxiety, wading through waves of grief, or steering the ship of parenting, adoption, and fostering, I'm here to support you.
Hi! I'm Melody McKibbin, your Washington-based LMHC, with a flair for Personality Disorder treatment, Enneagram insights, and DBT strategies. Think of counseling as our co-created adventure, uniquely tailored just for you. In my downtime, you'll catch me diving into the world of fiction. I'm currently cooking up a murder mystery comedy and get this—it's all about killer mannequins! When I'm not writing, I enjoy family hangs, cozying up with my Russian Blue cats, and friend hangouts. Let's embark on this journey with empathy, laughter, and understanding. Here's to navigating life's waters and finding your way to calmer seas!
Whether it's facing off against anxiety, wading through waves of grief, or steering the ship of parenting, adoption, and fostering, I'm here to support you.
Hi! I'm Melody McKibbin, your Washington-based LMHC, with a flair for Personality Disorder treatment, Enneagram insights, and DBT strategies. Think of counseling as our co-created adventure, uniquely tailored just for you. In my downtime, you'll catch me diving into the world of fiction. I'm currently cooking up a murder mystery comedy and get this—it's all about killer mannequins! When I'm not writing, I enjoy family hangs, cozying up with my Russian Blue cats, and friend hangouts. Let's embark on this journey with empathy, laughter, and understanding. Here's to navigating life's waters and finding your way to calmer seas!
(509) 612-7203 View (509) 612-7203
Photo of Julia E Eakes, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia E Eakes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chimacum, WA 98325  (Online Only)
I love to work with older teens and adults from the comfort of your own home through telehealth. I offer a safe and trusting environment that is conducive to emotional and spiritual growth. You will find that we are partners in a journey of discovery; we'll explore ways to empower, encourage and support your expression of what's troubling you. I offer the opportunity to explore personal growth through mind, body, and spirit. As a therapist, I tend to be eclectic, humanistic, and enthusiastic about Journaling, Energy Healing, Mindful Self Compassion, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, and CBT.
I love to work with older teens and adults from the comfort of your own home through telehealth. I offer a safe and trusting environment that is conducive to emotional and spiritual growth. You will find that we are partners in a journey of discovery; we'll explore ways to empower, encourage and support your expression of what's troubling you. I offer the opportunity to explore personal growth through mind, body, and spirit. As a therapist, I tend to be eclectic, humanistic, and enthusiastic about Journaling, Energy Healing, Mindful Self Compassion, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, and CBT.
(360) 310-4136 View (360) 310-4136
Photo of Doug Blessington - Sequim Counseling, Counselor
Sequim Counseling
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Port Townsend, WA 98368
We have over 40 therapists to help you with whatever you are experiencing. From anxiety to depression to relationship struggles, we've got you covered. We will match you with the provider that works best for you. If it's not a good fit, no worries. We can easily match you with another therapist. We accept insurance and can quickly get you an appointment. Just give us a call or email us and we'll reach out to start getting you the help you need.
We have over 40 therapists to help you with whatever you are experiencing. From anxiety to depression to relationship struggles, we've got you covered. We will match you with the provider that works best for you. If it's not a good fit, no worries. We can easily match you with another therapist. We accept insurance and can quickly get you an appointment. Just give us a call or email us and we'll reach out to start getting you the help you need.
(360) 309-0334 View (360) 309-0334
Photo of Sheena Uritz, LMHCA , Counselor
Sheena Uritz
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Port Townsend, WA 98368  (Online Only)
In our fast paced culture that emphasizes productivity over presence, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected. When we experience major transitions in life, encounter loss and grief, experience trauma, enter periods of questioning or struggle with addiction or mental health challenges we can find ourselves feeling untethered and lost. As a counselor, I provide a safe, accepting, respectful and supportive space for individuals and couples to recover a sense of deep connection in their lives. I utilize person-centered approaches that support healthy attachment and attunement.
In our fast paced culture that emphasizes productivity over presence, it can be easy to feel isolated and disconnected. When we experience major transitions in life, encounter loss and grief, experience trauma, enter periods of questioning or struggle with addiction or mental health challenges we can find ourselves feeling untethered and lost. As a counselor, I provide a safe, accepting, respectful and supportive space for individuals and couples to recover a sense of deep connection in their lives. I utilize person-centered approaches that support healthy attachment and attunement.
(360) 641-7469 View (360) 641-7469
Photo of Joan Forest - Clarity Counseling-Joan Forest LICSW, L, I, C, S, W, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clarity Counseling-Joan Forest LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, I, C, S, W
Verified Verified
Greenbank, WA 98253
Not accepting new clients
Each client has unique circumstances, challenges and goals, and I adapt my treatment to best fit the particular needs of the individual, couple or family. I am experienced in helping clients with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and marital problems. I am currently seeing children age five and up, teens and adults. My office is located in Greenbank, WA, and I provide telehealth as well as in person therapy.
Each client has unique circumstances, challenges and goals, and I adapt my treatment to best fit the particular needs of the individual, couple or family. I am experienced in helping clients with difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and marital problems. I am currently seeing children age five and up, teens and adults. My office is located in Greenbank, WA, and I provide telehealth as well as in person therapy.
(360) 284-1317 View (360) 284-1317

Online Therapists

Photo of Jessica R Cemenska, MC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica R Cemenska
Marriage & Family Therapist, MC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Everett, WA 98201
I have specific experience working with individuals and families who have experienced: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Problems (divorce/separation/child reunification), Adjustment Disorders, Domestic and Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, Adults Molested as Children, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Personality Disorders, Adoption and Foster Care Issues.
I have been working with families and individuals in the behavioral health field since 1998. I was originally licensed in California after completing my Masters Degree in Counseling and meeting California's thorough and rigid licensing requirements in 2005. In 2007 I received my license in Washington. I value the Therapist/Client relationship and promote a safe and validating environment to heal and process through life's difficult times. I have worked in a variety of settings and with a multitude of populations and challenges. I have faith in people's ability to change and overcome challenges and adversity.
I have specific experience working with individuals and families who have experienced: Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Problems (divorce/separation/child reunification), Adjustment Disorders, Domestic and Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, Adults Molested as Children, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Personality Disorders, Adoption and Foster Care Issues.
I have been working with families and individuals in the behavioral health field since 1998. I was originally licensed in California after completing my Masters Degree in Counseling and meeting California's thorough and rigid licensing requirements in 2005. In 2007 I received my license in Washington. I value the Therapist/Client relationship and promote a safe and validating environment to heal and process through life's difficult times. I have worked in a variety of settings and with a multitude of populations and challenges. I have faith in people's ability to change and overcome challenges and adversity.
(425) 474-6859 View (425) 474-6859
Photo of Katy Crouch, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Crouch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
My speciality is working with people who are going through a difficult time with relationships, dating, seperation, divorce, blended families, infertility, adoption, postpartum, menopause, caregiving for aging parents, young adults, and other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and OCD.
I specialize in working with people in transition, individuals, couples and young adults. As a Generalist with an emphasis in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I tailor my approach to each individual I work with. I want to fully understand your story; however, I recognize it is important for you to feel comfortable. My first job is to help you become comfortable enough to begin sharing your story. Without a therapeutic partnership, it is difficult to make progress and build the trust necessary for growth and change.
My speciality is working with people who are going through a difficult time with relationships, dating, seperation, divorce, blended families, infertility, adoption, postpartum, menopause, caregiving for aging parents, young adults, and other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and OCD.
I specialize in working with people in transition, individuals, couples and young adults. As a Generalist with an emphasis in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I tailor my approach to each individual I work with. I want to fully understand your story; however, I recognize it is important for you to feel comfortable. My first job is to help you become comfortable enough to begin sharing your story. Without a therapeutic partnership, it is difficult to make progress and build the trust necessary for growth and change.
(425) 390-8062 View (425) 390-8062
Photo of Kerry V Ragain, PhD, Psychologist
Kerry V Ragain
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mercer Island, WA 98040
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a private practice on Mercer Island, Washington. I have experience in providing therapy for a variety of mental health concerns with children, adolescents, and adults, including those associated with adoption, depression, anxiety and trauma. My services might be particularly suited to those individuals with long-standing mental health concerns.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a private practice on Mercer Island, Washington. I have experience in providing therapy for a variety of mental health concerns with children, adolescents, and adults, including those associated with adoption, depression, anxiety and trauma. My services might be particularly suited to those individuals with long-standing mental health concerns.
(425) 358-4857 View (425) 358-4857
Photo of Cher Anderton, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cher Anderton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
My primary areas of focus are, but not limited to, trauma, adoption, parent coaching, interpersonal skills and relationships, blended families, anxiety, depression, life coaching and major life transitions.
There is power in our voices, and we deserve spaces where we can learn to feel safe expressing our pain, our hopes and our truth. I consider it my life's work to help create sacred spaces for those seeking ways to let go of the weight of their trauma and/or simply learn how to live life well and more authentically. Trust fostered in therapeutic relationships can open doors for increased self-awareness and self-love, inviting you to create healthier beliefs about yourself, your relationships, your life, your choices and your potential.
My primary areas of focus are, but not limited to, trauma, adoption, parent coaching, interpersonal skills and relationships, blended families, anxiety, depression, life coaching and major life transitions.
There is power in our voices, and we deserve spaces where we can learn to feel safe expressing our pain, our hopes and our truth. I consider it my life's work to help create sacred spaces for those seeking ways to let go of the weight of their trauma and/or simply learn how to live life well and more authentically. Trust fostered in therapeutic relationships can open doors for increased self-awareness and self-love, inviting you to create healthier beliefs about yourself, your relationships, your life, your choices and your potential.
(401) 404-5932 View (401) 404-5932
Photo of Ryan Burke, LICSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Burke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Bellingham, WA 98225
I specialize in working with children, youth, and adults that have been impacted by foster care and adoption.
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.
I specialize in working with children, youth, and adults that have been impacted by foster care and adoption.
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 Heather Goldy, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Goldy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodinville, WA 98072  (Online Only)
Sometimes we find ourselves stuck, facing unexpected life experiences. Without knowing which way to go or how to make sense of things, we are left seeking answers, options, and direction. I specialize in guiding people through their family-building options, fertility challenges, reproductive assistance, surrogacy, adoption, and pregnancy/postpartum adjustment. These life transitions can bring grief, loss, stress, anxiety, and depression. Together, we will work to identify your goals and increase your awareness, insight, and understanding so that life feels more manageable and fulfilling.
Sometimes we find ourselves stuck, facing unexpected life experiences. Without knowing which way to go or how to make sense of things, we are left seeking answers, options, and direction. I specialize in guiding people through their family-building options, fertility challenges, reproductive assistance, surrogacy, adoption, and pregnancy/postpartum adjustment. These life transitions can bring grief, loss, stress, anxiety, and depression. Together, we will work to identify your goals and increase your awareness, insight, and understanding so that life feels more manageable and fulfilling.
(425) 600-7174 View (425) 600-7174
Photo of Chelsea Spiro, PsyD, Psychologist
Chelsea Spiro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Chelsea Spiro, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist who works with children, adolescents, parents, and families. Dr. Spiro enjoys building strong relationships with her clients and their communities, and utilizing a client's unique strengths to inform treatment. She uses evidence-based strategies to help clients achieve their goals and create rewarding relationships with others. She specializes in infant and early childhood mental health, childhood trauma, attachment/relational concerns, and adoption. Dr. Spiro has significant experience collaborating with teachers, foster parents, caseworkers, and the judicial system.
Chelsea Spiro, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist who works with children, adolescents, parents, and families. Dr. Spiro enjoys building strong relationships with her clients and their communities, and utilizing a client's unique strengths to inform treatment. She uses evidence-based strategies to help clients achieve their goals and create rewarding relationships with others. She specializes in infant and early childhood mental health, childhood trauma, attachment/relational concerns, and adoption. Dr. Spiro has significant experience collaborating with teachers, foster parents, caseworkers, and the judicial system.
(206) 208-1063 View (206) 208-1063
Photo of Apryl Carlington, MA, LMHC, MHP, CMHP, Counselor
Apryl Carlington
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, CMHP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
To list a few; school based triage, family support of DCYF involvement, adoption/guardian support, family reunification and preservation, crisis and law enforcement, LGBTQ support, depression/anxiety and other concerns of personal, emotional and behavioral health.
The therapeutic relationship should empower an individual to regain ownership of their life, shifting negative self-talk and other impacts of trauma; allowing for holistic healing and growth. It is my hope to actively walk alongside my client as they work to create their peace; ultimately gaining an improvement in positive self-awareness and optimism, with a side of lasting security and emotional health.
To list a few; school based triage, family support of DCYF involvement, adoption/guardian support, family reunification and preservation, crisis and law enforcement, LGBTQ support, depression/anxiety and other concerns of personal, emotional and behavioral health.
The therapeutic relationship should empower an individual to regain ownership of their life, shifting negative self-talk and other impacts of trauma; allowing for holistic healing and growth. It is my hope to actively walk alongside my client as they work to create their peace; ultimately gaining an improvement in positive self-awareness and optimism, with a side of lasting security and emotional health.
(360) 625-6911 View (360) 625-6911
Photo of Amy Schaller, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Schaller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shoreline, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Are you wanting to find joy and ease in your parenting, but instead encountering frustration? If your child joined your family through adoption or has a trauma history, challenging moments can sometimes crowd out the joy. Maybe you find yourself yelling or losing your patience more than you would like. Maybe you’d like to get to the roots of your child’s baffling behaviors, but you don’t know where to start. Together, we can shift your perspective and see your child through a new lens. Underneath the big behaviors is your child's true self, a struggling child who wants to feel regulated, connected, and safe.
Are you wanting to find joy and ease in your parenting, but instead encountering frustration? If your child joined your family through adoption or has a trauma history, challenging moments can sometimes crowd out the joy. Maybe you find yourself yelling or losing your patience more than you would like. Maybe you’d like to get to the roots of your child’s baffling behaviors, but you don’t know where to start. Together, we can shift your perspective and see your child through a new lens. Underneath the big behaviors is your child's true self, a struggling child who wants to feel regulated, connected, and safe.
(206) 889-6202 View (206) 889-6202
Photo of Brandy Oto - Thrive Wellness Clinic, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Thrive Wellness Clinic
MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maple Valley, WA 98038
Thrive offers mental health services to every part of the family system. With a team of expert therapists with different specialties, we aim to match you to a team member who is trained with your specific needs. Our therapists see children from the age of 3 and beyond to include every age. We offer every type of therapy to include individual therapy for children, teen and adults, couples counseling and family therapy. Additionally we specialize in perinatal therapy, fertility counseling and adoption counseling. If you're looking to explore holistic alternatives for mental health needs we offer integrative medicine for mental health.
Thrive offers mental health services to every part of the family system. With a team of expert therapists with different specialties, we aim to match you to a team member who is trained with your specific needs. Our therapists see children from the age of 3 and beyond to include every age. We offer every type of therapy to include individual therapy for children, teen and adults, couples counseling and family therapy. Additionally we specialize in perinatal therapy, fertility counseling and adoption counseling. If you're looking to explore holistic alternatives for mental health needs we offer integrative medicine for mental health.
(360) 301-7633 View (360) 301-7633
Photo of Debby Fields, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Debby Fields
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98020  (Online Only)
I have extensive training and experience in the fields of attachment, adoption, and trauma.
Have you or your loved ones experienced trauma, loss, or unmet needs? Are you feeling defeated and hopeless about your relationship with your child or spouse? If your messages to yourself are critical and self-defeating, or your communication with family members is strained and ineffective, you are continually bumping up against the same walls. Understanding and nurturing are necessary for your healing and growth. With awareness and support you can have peace in your heart and joy in your relationships.
I have extensive training and experience in the fields of attachment, adoption, and trauma.
Have you or your loved ones experienced trauma, loss, or unmet needs? Are you feeling defeated and hopeless about your relationship with your child or spouse? If your messages to yourself are critical and self-defeating, or your communication with family members is strained and ineffective, you are continually bumping up against the same walls. Understanding and nurturing are necessary for your healing and growth. With awareness and support you can have peace in your heart and joy in your relationships.
(425) 307-5207 View (425) 307-5207
Photo of Katie Schmitten, CSWA, LSWAIC, Pre-Licensed Professional
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 Barbie Nevin - Reason To Believe Therapy LLC, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Reason To Believe Therapy LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98003
I work mainly with women who are experiencing trauma, both physical and emotional, as well as grief and loss, adoption-related issues, and major life transitions. If you identify with any of these, chances are you're struggling with anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, feelings of guilt and shame, depression, grief, self-doubt, or loss of identity, and possibly all of the above. Therapy can help you sort through the chaos of emotions and quiet the turmoil of your thoughts so you can find yourself again and map your path forward.
I work mainly with women who are experiencing trauma, both physical and emotional, as well as grief and loss, adoption-related issues, and major life transitions. If you identify with any of these, chances are you're struggling with anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues, feelings of guilt and shame, depression, grief, self-doubt, or loss of identity, and possibly all of the above. Therapy can help you sort through the chaos of emotions and quiet the turmoil of your thoughts so you can find yourself again and map your path forward.
(253) 893-8389 View (253) 893-8389
Photo of Chris Cline - The Lord Who Heals Christian Therapy
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

See more therapy options for Port Hadlock

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.