Adoption Therapists in Theresa, WI

Photo of Joyous Living Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Joyous Living Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Theresa, WI 53091
I am an older adult with a counseling degree based on 50+ years of life experiences. I understand you because I have probably 'been there' in my own life before. I accurately empathize with you and give you treatment pathways that worked for me. I accept all types of life's problems and because I have gone through divorce and the loss of a child, I specialize in grief counseling. I have a specialty in foster amd adoption therapy. I realize that counseling is hard work on the part of the client, and as your therapist I commit to helping you seek deliverance of the past and cheer you on to the future.
I am an older adult with a counseling degree based on 50+ years of life experiences. I understand you because I have probably 'been there' in my own life before. I accurately empathize with you and give you treatment pathways that worked for me. I accept all types of life's problems and because I have gone through divorce and the loss of a child, I specialize in grief counseling. I have a specialty in foster amd adoption therapy. I realize that counseling is hard work on the part of the client, and as your therapist I commit to helping you seek deliverance of the past and cheer you on to the future.
(920) 482-6223 View (920) 482-6223

Online Therapists

Photo of Jeanine M Swenson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Theresa, WI
Jeanine M Swenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53092
My areas of expertise include: stress management, helping couples in crisis or transition, intimacy, parenting issues, adoption, fertility challenges and individuals & families living with chronic illness.
Are you feeling stuck in your personal or professional life? Are you missing closeness or comfort that has wained ? I am trained and licensed in Marriage & Family Therapy (systems) and enjoy helping patients and their families work on relational issues. My work is relationship & sex positive, and my focus is strength-based and solution-focused. I look forward to meeting you and hearing your unique story.
My areas of expertise include: stress management, helping couples in crisis or transition, intimacy, parenting issues, adoption, fertility challenges and individuals & families living with chronic illness.
Are you feeling stuck in your personal or professional life? Are you missing closeness or comfort that has wained ? I am trained and licensed in Marriage & Family Therapy (systems) and enjoy helping patients and their families work on relational issues. My work is relationship & sex positive, and my focus is strength-based and solution-focused. I look forward to meeting you and hearing your unique story.
(844) 513-7879 View (844) 513-7879
Photo of Sarah Wittmann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Sarah Wittmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53213  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with over 17 years of experience. I currently enjoy working with adults (18-64) through individual, virtual therapy. I'm trained in behavioral therapies but use an integrative and trauma-informed approach with clients primarily experiencing depression and anxiety. My other areas of focus include general stress management, parenting, relationship stress, adjusting to life transitions, women's mental health, family of origin issues, ADHD, and adoption. I'm down to earth, compassionate, and looking forward to partnering with you.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with over 17 years of experience. I currently enjoy working with adults (18-64) through individual, virtual therapy. I'm trained in behavioral therapies but use an integrative and trauma-informed approach with clients primarily experiencing depression and anxiety. My other areas of focus include general stress management, parenting, relationship stress, adjusting to life transitions, women's mental health, family of origin issues, ADHD, and adoption. I'm down to earth, compassionate, and looking forward to partnering with you.
(262) 393-4507 View (262) 393-4507
Photo of Jennifer Hastings Meinholdt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Jennifer Hastings Meinholdt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202
My speciality is helping individuals with: relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, grief and loss, adoption and life transitions.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Relationship issues troubling you? Going through a large life transition? I will work with you to discover what is interfering with your having the life you want. We will work together to achieve your goals and restore your sense of joy in activities, life and relationships.
My speciality is helping individuals with: relationship struggles, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, grief and loss, adoption and life transitions.
Are you struggling with anxiety? Relationship issues troubling you? Going through a large life transition? I will work with you to discover what is interfering with your having the life you want. We will work together to achieve your goals and restore your sense of joy in activities, life and relationships.
(414) 441-6283 View (414) 441-6283
Photo of Leah Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Leah Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53704
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include anxiety spectrum disorders, fears both rational and irrational, self-esteem issues, trauma and adoption issues .
I believe throughout our lives, from childhood to adulthood there are circumstances that cause us to lose sight of our true authentic self. I value taking time to develop a therapeutic relationship based on trust in a safe environment. My sessions are casual, and I enjoy working as a team in developing goals and strategies. When working with children, I like to use play based techniques and movement to assist in regulation while discussing stressful topics. My client base consists of children, teens, young adults transitioning into adulthood and adults dealing with stressors that impact day to day functioning.
My specialties include anxiety spectrum disorders, fears both rational and irrational, self-esteem issues, trauma and adoption issues .
I believe throughout our lives, from childhood to adulthood there are circumstances that cause us to lose sight of our true authentic self. I value taking time to develop a therapeutic relationship based on trust in a safe environment. My sessions are casual, and I enjoy working as a team in developing goals and strategies. When working with children, I like to use play based techniques and movement to assist in regulation while discussing stressful topics. My client base consists of children, teens, young adults transitioning into adulthood and adults dealing with stressors that impact day to day functioning.
(608) 938-8828 View (608) 938-8828
Photo of Tayler Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Theresa, WI
Tayler Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shorewood, WI 53211
New client spots available! Licensed in WI,IL,CO & FL(by endorsement). I identify as a Bi/queer cis woman (she/her) who was late diagnosed as ADHD. I provide LGBTQI+ and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy. I also provide therapy to those involved in Adoption & Foster through the TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) approach. We go against the grain of “typical” & how “things should be” & focus instead on what works for you. Are you ready to dig into root issues, explore your identity, set boundaries, communicate your needs and build healthy coping skills?
New client spots available! Licensed in WI,IL,CO & FL(by endorsement). I identify as a Bi/queer cis woman (she/her) who was late diagnosed as ADHD. I provide LGBTQI+ and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy. I also provide therapy to those involved in Adoption & Foster through the TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) approach. We go against the grain of “typical” & how “things should be” & focus instead on what works for you. Are you ready to dig into root issues, explore your identity, set boundaries, communicate your needs and build healthy coping skills?
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Photo of Leticia Mayes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Leticia Mayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waukesha, WI 53186
Have you or your child/adolescent found yourself in a very dark, messy, or hard place in life? Does it feel like you are stuck in quicksand and no matter what you try, you can't get out? I am here to support you in your journey to find relief from overwhelming emotions and painful memories due to trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, or self-harm. I am also here to help parents and children work through attachment obstacles due to adoption or foster care related concerns. It's important to me that each person feels safe in their body and environment while also gaining the ability to trust and connect with others.
Have you or your child/adolescent found yourself in a very dark, messy, or hard place in life? Does it feel like you are stuck in quicksand and no matter what you try, you can't get out? I am here to support you in your journey to find relief from overwhelming emotions and painful memories due to trauma, anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, or self-harm. I am also here to help parents and children work through attachment obstacles due to adoption or foster care related concerns. It's important to me that each person feels safe in their body and environment while also gaining the ability to trust and connect with others.
(262) 300-7562 View (262) 300-7562
Photo of Samantha Pierce, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Samantha Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in anxiety, attachment, LGBTQA+ struggles, PTSD and trauma, dissociation, and families working through pre and post adoption struggles.
Does going out in public with your child feel like an impossible task? Do you feel guilt over your child's meltdowns or teen's isolation? Do you feel like doctors, teachers, and other adults just don't get it? Do you worry about their safety? Are you overcome with guilt looking at other families on Facebook and Instagram? Parents want to feel like things are under control; that your family can be happy and have productive evenings, and that your child can transition to school and activities, feel confident, have friendships, and like themselves.
I specialize in anxiety, attachment, LGBTQA+ struggles, PTSD and trauma, dissociation, and families working through pre and post adoption struggles.
Does going out in public with your child feel like an impossible task? Do you feel guilt over your child's meltdowns or teen's isolation? Do you feel like doctors, teachers, and other adults just don't get it? Do you worry about their safety? Are you overcome with guilt looking at other families on Facebook and Instagram? Parents want to feel like things are under control; that your family can be happy and have productive evenings, and that your child can transition to school and activities, feel confident, have friendships, and like themselves.
(608) 535-6242 View (608) 535-6242
Photo of Callie Barfield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Callie Barfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53226  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Parenthood can be confusing, isolating, & not at all what we were expecting! I am passionate about collaborating with individuals across the spectrum of pregnancy & parenthood, including new parents, queer parents, non-traditional families, non-gestational or adoptive parents, those who have experienced loss or infertility, & birth parents & those impacted by adoption. I also provide unbiased, evidence based pregnancy options counseling. I also offer support with adjustment to parenthood & guidance in gentle & respectful parenting for secure attachment.
Parenthood can be confusing, isolating, & not at all what we were expecting! I am passionate about collaborating with individuals across the spectrum of pregnancy & parenthood, including new parents, queer parents, non-traditional families, non-gestational or adoptive parents, those who have experienced loss or infertility, & birth parents & those impacted by adoption. I also provide unbiased, evidence based pregnancy options counseling. I also offer support with adjustment to parenthood & guidance in gentle & respectful parenting for secure attachment.
(262) 205-7705 View (262) 205-7705
Photo of Kerri A. Pingel, Counselor in Theresa, WI
Kerri A. Pingel
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kenosha, WI 53142
Hello! My name is Kerri Pingel. I am independently licensed in Wisconsin. Children and families are my primary clinical focus. I work mainly with children who have experienced abuse or neglect, trauma, self-harm or suicide tendencies, and foster care/adoption. Before counseling, I was a houseparent for teenage girls in a residential setting and I also worked for an international anti-child sex trafficking organization.
Hello! My name is Kerri Pingel. I am independently licensed in Wisconsin. Children and families are my primary clinical focus. I work mainly with children who have experienced abuse or neglect, trauma, self-harm or suicide tendencies, and foster care/adoption. Before counseling, I was a houseparent for teenage girls in a residential setting and I also worked for an international anti-child sex trafficking organization.
(260) 994-0886 x109 View (260) 994-0886 x109
Photo of Allison Ommodt, Pre-Licensed Professional in Theresa, WI
Allison Ommodt
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety, hopelessness, or burnout? Each day your stress is piling higher, and you feel like you can’t keep up. You may be feeling alone like no one understands what you’re going through. Maybe you’re overwhelmed amid a big life change, where you’re struggling to find peace in your new reality, or a parent who feels lost in how to help their child. I want to assure you that you’ve found a supportive space here. I specialize in working with individuals ages 14 & up with a variety of struggles like complex trauma, autism, attachment issues, adoption, life transitions, anxiety, & more.
Are you struggling with anxiety, hopelessness, or burnout? Each day your stress is piling higher, and you feel like you can’t keep up. You may be feeling alone like no one understands what you’re going through. Maybe you’re overwhelmed amid a big life change, where you’re struggling to find peace in your new reality, or a parent who feels lost in how to help their child. I want to assure you that you’ve found a supportive space here. I specialize in working with individuals ages 14 & up with a variety of struggles like complex trauma, autism, attachment issues, adoption, life transitions, anxiety, & more.
(608) 585-8263 View (608) 585-8263
Photo of Brooke Thorson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Brooke Thorson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53711
As an adoptee myself, I also have a specialty in helping clients impacted by adoption and foster care.
My name is Brooke Thorson and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin. I have multiple years of experience working mostly with children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families of all backgrounds. As a practicing therapist, I feel privileged to be a part of peoples’ unique journeys in processing, coping, healing, and overcoming life stressors through strengths-based and client-centered approaches.
As an adoptee myself, I also have a specialty in helping clients impacted by adoption and foster care.
My name is Brooke Thorson and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin. I have multiple years of experience working mostly with children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families of all backgrounds. As a practicing therapist, I feel privileged to be a part of peoples’ unique journeys in processing, coping, healing, and overcoming life stressors through strengths-based and client-centered approaches.
(608) 719-4405 View (608) 719-4405
Photo of Veronica Sosa Ms Lpc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Veronica Sosa Ms Lpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PPS, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53188  (Online Only)
Founder and CEO of LifeStriders. Clinical Supervisor for over 15 years, DEI certified. I am experienced in: Abuse & Trauma, Anger Management, ADD/ADHD, Children/Teen Issues,Career Counseling/Job Loss,Couples/Marriage & Relationship Enhancement,Depression, Diabetes, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Domestic Violence,Parenting & Constructive Discipline,Grief,Low Self Esteem,Parenting Children with Special Needs, Reactive Attachment Disorder/Adoption,School Issues/ Behavior Problems/ IEP's, Anxiety/ Panic Disorder, PTSD, Social Anxiety,Stress Management,Veterans Post-War Anxiety/Depression & Re-adjustment. DE&I certified
Founder and CEO of LifeStriders. Clinical Supervisor for over 15 years, DEI certified. I am experienced in: Abuse & Trauma, Anger Management, ADD/ADHD, Children/Teen Issues,Career Counseling/Job Loss,Couples/Marriage & Relationship Enhancement,Depression, Diabetes, Bipolar Disorder, Postpartum Depression, Domestic Violence,Parenting & Constructive Discipline,Grief,Low Self Esteem,Parenting Children with Special Needs, Reactive Attachment Disorder/Adoption,School Issues/ Behavior Problems/ IEP's, Anxiety/ Panic Disorder, PTSD, Social Anxiety,Stress Management,Veterans Post-War Anxiety/Depression & Re-adjustment. DE&I certified
(262) 563-2981 View (262) 563-2981
Photo of Tyler Loomis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
Tyler Loomis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brookfield, WI 53005
Marriage therapy; Parenting concerns; Counseling for pastors; Fertility and adoption issues; Spiritual concerns, doubts and questions; Men's issues around communication, emotional health/intelligence, pornography and other addictive or problematic sexual issues; Grief and loss; anxiety; depression; addiction issues.
It's hard for most people to ask for help. I get that. But I am of the belief that there are two categories of people: those who could be helped by therapy and those who actually go out and try it. So, if you are stepping out, asking for help, and giving therapy a try - good for you for taking a risk. My goal right off the bat is to build trust with my clients. Regardless of the issue at hand, I believe the most important and powerful tool is to have a trusted relationship in your corner.
Marriage therapy; Parenting concerns; Counseling for pastors; Fertility and adoption issues; Spiritual concerns, doubts and questions; Men's issues around communication, emotional health/intelligence, pornography and other addictive or problematic sexual issues; Grief and loss; anxiety; depression; addiction issues.
It's hard for most people to ask for help. I get that. But I am of the belief that there are two categories of people: those who could be helped by therapy and those who actually go out and try it. So, if you are stepping out, asking for help, and giving therapy a try - good for you for taking a risk. My goal right off the bat is to build trust with my clients. Regardless of the issue at hand, I believe the most important and powerful tool is to have a trusted relationship in your corner.
(414) 422-8217 View (414) 422-8217
Photo of Danel Burchby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Theresa, WI
Danel Burchby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Neenah, WI 54956
I work with adults experiencing OCD, phobias, anxiety, depression, family dysfunction, grief and loss, trauma, and individuals touched by adoption.
Are life’s stressors impacting your sense of joy, your family life, or other relationships? Are you struggling with worry or sadness that seems to keep you down? Do you feel as though you are alone in handling some of the challenges that life has put in front of you? Anxiety and depression can immobilize us, leaving us feeling a loss of control and sometimes we just can't make things better on our own. My training and 20+ years of experience prepared me to work with people of all cultures, ethnic backgrounds. I want to understand not only who you are as a person, but also how your background and experiences shape your life.
I work with adults experiencing OCD, phobias, anxiety, depression, family dysfunction, grief and loss, trauma, and individuals touched by adoption.
Are life’s stressors impacting your sense of joy, your family life, or other relationships? Are you struggling with worry or sadness that seems to keep you down? Do you feel as though you are alone in handling some of the challenges that life has put in front of you? Anxiety and depression can immobilize us, leaving us feeling a loss of control and sometimes we just can't make things better on our own. My training and 20+ years of experience prepared me to work with people of all cultures, ethnic backgrounds. I want to understand not only who you are as a person, but also how your background and experiences shape your life.
(920) 245-8512 View (920) 245-8512
Photo of The Cozy Couch LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Theresa, WI
The Cozy Couch LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bayside, WI 53217  (Online Only)
In addition to various mental health issues and concerns, I have an understanding of adoption and foster care, multicultural families and how that impacts one's identity.
As a therapist, I can understand the anxiety and fear surrounding your decision to seek therapy for yourself. I would like to partner with you as you navigate your world. As a therapist, I provide an eclectic approach to counseling, with a belief that in order to understand the present, one must understand his or her past. I operate from a strengths-based perspective because I believe both children and adults are resilient and given the right tools, can solve their own problems.
In addition to various mental health issues and concerns, I have an understanding of adoption and foster care, multicultural families and how that impacts one's identity.
As a therapist, I can understand the anxiety and fear surrounding your decision to seek therapy for yourself. I would like to partner with you as you navigate your world. As a therapist, I provide an eclectic approach to counseling, with a belief that in order to understand the present, one must understand his or her past. I operate from a strengths-based perspective because I believe both children and adults are resilient and given the right tools, can solve their own problems.
(414) 775-3296 View (414) 775-3296
Photo of Jacy Allen-Boldebuck, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Theresa, WI
Jacy Allen-Boldebuck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monona, WI 53713
I am an Experienced, compassionate and competent therapist. I help individuals and couples identify and understand the patterns that are causing distress and disfunction. I enjoy the process of insight building and guiding my clients towards healthy change and control over who they are and how they engage life. I have expertise in post adoption reunion issues and help adult adoptees navigate those new relationship realities.
I am an Experienced, compassionate and competent therapist. I help individuals and couples identify and understand the patterns that are causing distress and disfunction. I enjoy the process of insight building and guiding my clients towards healthy change and control over who they are and how they engage life. I have expertise in post adoption reunion issues and help adult adoptees navigate those new relationship realities.
(608) 200-3264 View (608) 200-3264
Photo of Popke Psychological Services SC in Theresa, WI
Popke Psychological Services SC
EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Whitewater, WI 53190
I have special training & parenting experience working with special needs children and pre/post-adoption issues.
Go to my website at www.Dpopketherapy.com to learn more about my services and to set an appointment anytime online. Whether you're having challenges at home, school, or work, we'll design a therapy plan that helps you make positive changes. I believe how you feel, what you think, & how you act are related. By learning and practicing various proven psychological techniques, you can make life-changing differences in how you relate to others and see yourself. I've taught these techniques successfully to individuals and groups. Are you ready to learn?
I have special training & parenting experience working with special needs children and pre/post-adoption issues.
Go to my website at www.Dpopketherapy.com to learn more about my services and to set an appointment anytime online. Whether you're having challenges at home, school, or work, we'll design a therapy plan that helps you make positive changes. I believe how you feel, what you think, & how you act are related. By learning and practicing various proven psychological techniques, you can make life-changing differences in how you relate to others and see yourself. I've taught these techniques successfully to individuals and groups. Are you ready to learn?
(262) 674-6994 View (262) 674-6994
Photo of Kayla E Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Theresa, WI
Kayla E Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSM, SAC
Verified Verified
Mequon, WI 53092
As well as, Alcohol and other Drug Abuse (AODA) expertise, Foster/adoption concerns, and spiritual advisement.
Heavenly Oasis Christian Counseling Center (HOCCC) passionately focuses on instilling hope and life balance through the intergration of biblical principles and research-based therapeutic interventions. Services rendered in a peaceful oasis dedicated to uplifting Jesus Christ's core commandment, LOVE. I receive genuine pleasure from seeing people transformed and empowered by the renewing of their minds and the cultivation of their God-given strengths, talents and gifts. With over 20 years of experience advocating, assisting and partnering with families "I promise to serve my community with excellence”.
As well as, Alcohol and other Drug Abuse (AODA) expertise, Foster/adoption concerns, and spiritual advisement.
Heavenly Oasis Christian Counseling Center (HOCCC) passionately focuses on instilling hope and life balance through the intergration of biblical principles and research-based therapeutic interventions. Services rendered in a peaceful oasis dedicated to uplifting Jesus Christ's core commandment, LOVE. I receive genuine pleasure from seeing people transformed and empowered by the renewing of their minds and the cultivation of their God-given strengths, talents and gifts. With over 20 years of experience advocating, assisting and partnering with families "I promise to serve my community with excellence”.
(414) 501-7492 View (414) 501-7492
Photo of Leah Schaut, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Theresa, WI
Leah Schaut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kenosha, WI 53140
I am knowledgable in 12-step work, adoption, autism, learning disabilities, and grief work; I have worked with pioneers in the field.
I am blessed to study with the best - I studied family systems work with Monica McGoldrick MSW and learned EMDR in 1990 from Dr. Shapiro herself. I have been a senior facilitator for the EMDR Institute and am a consultant for therapists in training. Today I practice family systems, utilizing the genogram - with EMDR as the cornerstone - along with mindfullness and spirituality. I have four children who have taught me about autism, dyslexia, adoption, and assumptions. They are my greatest teachers! I am married to Dr. John Schaut, a master EMDR practioner who works with our combat veterans.
I am knowledgable in 12-step work, adoption, autism, learning disabilities, and grief work; I have worked with pioneers in the field.
I am blessed to study with the best - I studied family systems work with Monica McGoldrick MSW and learned EMDR in 1990 from Dr. Shapiro herself. I have been a senior facilitator for the EMDR Institute and am a consultant for therapists in training. Today I practice family systems, utilizing the genogram - with EMDR as the cornerstone - along with mindfullness and spirituality. I have four children who have taught me about autism, dyslexia, adoption, and assumptions. They are my greatest teachers! I am married to Dr. John Schaut, a master EMDR practioner who works with our combat veterans.
(847) 457-0560 View (847) 457-0560
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.