Adoption Therapists in Carefree, AZ

Photo of Leanne Tanis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Leanne Tanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP
Carefree, AZ 85377
You keep it all together for everyone else, but inside you feel anxious, disconnected, or on edge. I help adults heal the lasting impact of childhood trauma and emotional neglect so they can feel safe, connected, and confident in relationships. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that keep you stuck, regulate your nervous system, and create real emotional freedom. These patterns aren’t your fault. They began as protection — shaped by early experiences of feeling unseen, unsafe, or not enough. Now, those same patterns block the closeness and peace you want most.
You keep it all together for everyone else, but inside you feel anxious, disconnected, or on edge. I help adults heal the lasting impact of childhood trauma and emotional neglect so they can feel safe, connected, and confident in relationships. Together, we’ll identify the patterns that keep you stuck, regulate your nervous system, and create real emotional freedom. These patterns aren’t your fault. They began as protection — shaped by early experiences of feeling unseen, unsafe, or not enough. Now, those same patterns block the closeness and peace you want most.
(602) 833-1065 View (602) 833-1065
Photo of Tina Coatta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Tina Coatta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Carefree, AZ 85377
Looking for help with difficult relationships or healing from trauma? I specialize in working with adults and teens who have experienced complex trauma or are navigating life transitions. I provide sliding scale fees to reduce financial barriers to accessing therapy. I incorporate somatosensory practices, expressive arts, EMDR and Flash to help you heal from trauma. You may be feeling ready for a change and need support moving forward. You may be struggling with attachment relationships. You may be feeling overwhelmed. You may be struggling with anxiety and navigating work or school. I’d be glad to set up a time to connect!
Looking for help with difficult relationships or healing from trauma? I specialize in working with adults and teens who have experienced complex trauma or are navigating life transitions. I provide sliding scale fees to reduce financial barriers to accessing therapy. I incorporate somatosensory practices, expressive arts, EMDR and Flash to help you heal from trauma. You may be feeling ready for a change and need support moving forward. You may be struggling with attachment relationships. You may be feeling overwhelmed. You may be struggling with anxiety and navigating work or school. I’d be glad to set up a time to connect!
(952) 230-0617 View (952) 230-0617
Photo of Paula K Dieck, CHT, MS-SLP
Paula K Dieck
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carefree, AZ 85377
I am a personal Empowerment Coach. My purpose & passion is to help you break through and release the blocks that are stopping you from moving forward and living your best life. I am Certified in Life Coaching, Hypnosis, PSYCH-K, and Infinite Possibilities. I am a Reiki Master / Teacher and author, as well. My program utilizes a customized blend of these techniques to foster powerful & lasting change on an innate subconscious level. Sessions focus on self-esteem, prosperity, health/body, emotional well-being, personal power and healing from trauma, with a goal of uncovering needs safely and confidently as you create your change!
I am a personal Empowerment Coach. My purpose & passion is to help you break through and release the blocks that are stopping you from moving forward and living your best life. I am Certified in Life Coaching, Hypnosis, PSYCH-K, and Infinite Possibilities. I am a Reiki Master / Teacher and author, as well. My program utilizes a customized blend of these techniques to foster powerful & lasting change on an innate subconscious level. Sessions focus on self-esteem, prosperity, health/body, emotional well-being, personal power and healing from trauma, with a goal of uncovering needs safely and confidently as you create your change!
(480) 418-8481 View (480) 418-8481
Photo of Dina Reimer, Psychologist, PsyD
Dina Reimer
Psychologist, PsyD
Serves Area
As a psychologist, I find it most important to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment, where children, adolescents and adults feel comfortable and understood. I often work closely with parents and children, teaching "tools" that help families function better. These include respectful communication, anger management, and how to deal with excess anxiety or depression. I believe the past affects our present, and our thoughts affect our feelings and actions. I provide the skills that allow clients of any age to confidently move forward to a happier, healthier place.
As a psychologist, I find it most important to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment, where children, adolescents and adults feel comfortable and understood. I often work closely with parents and children, teaching "tools" that help families function better. These include respectful communication, anger management, and how to deal with excess anxiety or depression. I believe the past affects our present, and our thoughts affect our feelings and actions. I provide the skills that allow clients of any age to confidently move forward to a happier, healthier place.
(480) 442-3875 View (480) 442-3875
Photo of Jennifer Salas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Jennifer Salas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
15 Endorsed
Serves Area
Bilingual (English and Spanish). Serving mental health counseling and Immigration Evaluation clients in AZ via Telehealth. Healing is truly possible! Each person has immense strength and resilience. My passion involves walking alongside clients to build upon areas of hope for improved well-being. People do not need to go through these things alone. I strive to provide quality, trustworthy, and professional guidance to my clients in a collaborative manner. I have years of experience assisting those who have gone through trauma, sexuality-based issues, and those struggling to manage difficult emotions, thoughts, and relationships.
Bilingual (English and Spanish). Serving mental health counseling and Immigration Evaluation clients in AZ via Telehealth. Healing is truly possible! Each person has immense strength and resilience. My passion involves walking alongside clients to build upon areas of hope for improved well-being. People do not need to go through these things alone. I strive to provide quality, trustworthy, and professional guidance to my clients in a collaborative manner. I have years of experience assisting those who have gone through trauma, sexuality-based issues, and those struggling to manage difficult emotions, thoughts, and relationships.
(602) 786-8961 View (602) 786-8961

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of DeAnna Wahlheim, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
DeAnna Wahlheim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with 18 years of experience in treating children, adolescents, adults, and families affected by trauma, including neglect, abuse, and developmental trauma. I also address single-incident trauma. My goal is to accompany individuals on their journey toward healing and support them with unconditional positive regard. I offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Theraplay and Sand-Tray Therapy.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with 18 years of experience in treating children, adolescents, adults, and families affected by trauma, including neglect, abuse, and developmental trauma. I also address single-incident trauma. My goal is to accompany individuals on their journey toward healing and support them with unconditional positive regard. I offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Theraplay and Sand-Tray Therapy.
(623) 244-4521 View (623) 244-4521
Photo of Kerri Garner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Kerri Garner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC
Phoenix, AZ 85020
Do you feel overwhelmed by your child’s emotional outbursts, opposition, or struggles with self-regulation? Many parents of children with trauma, neurodiversity, or difficult life experiences can relate to the exhaustion and frustration of trying to manage challenging behaviors. It can feel like you’re caught in a never-ending cycle of conflict, with little to no relief. But imagine if you didn’t have to feel this way. Picture your family experiencing moments of joy, connection, and mutual understanding—even during stressful times. This is possible, and it starts with learning new ways to connect and co-regulate with your child.
Do you feel overwhelmed by your child’s emotional outbursts, opposition, or struggles with self-regulation? Many parents of children with trauma, neurodiversity, or difficult life experiences can relate to the exhaustion and frustration of trying to manage challenging behaviors. It can feel like you’re caught in a never-ending cycle of conflict, with little to no relief. But imagine if you didn’t have to feel this way. Picture your family experiencing moments of joy, connection, and mutual understanding—even during stressful times. This is possible, and it starts with learning new ways to connect and co-regulate with your child.
(602) 755-8879 View (602) 755-8879
Photo of Maria Cronyn, ND
Maria Cronyn
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I am a naturopathic doctor with 26 years of experience specializing in trauma-informed and adoption-literate care.
My ideal client is a trauma-impacted woman, adoptee, or parent of a child with significant behavioral challenges who feels chronically anxious, depressed, reactive, or hormonally dysregulated despite prior care. Many carry invisible grief, attachment wounds, narcissistic abuse history, or unresolved neurological and inflammatory stress. They are ready for a deeper reckoning with unanswered mental health questions and want an evaluation that connects trauma, hormone health, neurobiology, and root-cause investigation with clarity and precision.
I am a naturopathic doctor with 26 years of experience specializing in trauma-informed and adoption-literate care.
My ideal client is a trauma-impacted woman, adoptee, or parent of a child with significant behavioral challenges who feels chronically anxious, depressed, reactive, or hormonally dysregulated despite prior care. Many carry invisible grief, attachment wounds, narcissistic abuse history, or unresolved neurological and inflammatory stress. They are ready for a deeper reckoning with unanswered mental health questions and want an evaluation that connects trauma, hormone health, neurobiology, and root-cause investigation with clarity and precision.
(928) 325-1839 View (928) 325-1839
Photo of Nancy Harris, Psychologist, PsyD
Nancy Harris
Psychologist, PsyD
Phoenix, AZ 85020
Do you find yourself frustrated by your child’s behavior? Do you sometimes catch yourself wishing you were a more effective parent? Parenting can give you enormous rewards and also deeply challenge your limits. It can bring up experiences from your own upbringing that you thought you had left behind. I help parents address the stresses that come with parenting so they can focus on enjoying their relationship with their children.
Do you find yourself frustrated by your child’s behavior? Do you sometimes catch yourself wishing you were a more effective parent? Parenting can give you enormous rewards and also deeply challenge your limits. It can bring up experiences from your own upbringing that you thought you had left behind. I help parents address the stresses that come with parenting so they can focus on enjoying their relationship with their children.
(602) 497-0371 View (602) 497-0371
Photo of Madison Jay, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Madison Jay
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Madison meets clients exactly where they are and is especially passionate about supporting those exploring adoption and identity, LGBTQIA+ clients, neurodiverse individuals, consensual non-monogamous couples, blended families, and those navigating immigration and acculturation.
Madison has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an evidence-based approach that helps individuals, couples, and families deepen emotional connection and navigate relational challenges. She supports clients with curiosity and compassion and is committed to ongoing growth to best support their healing and well-being.
Madison meets clients exactly where they are and is especially passionate about supporting those exploring adoption and identity, LGBTQIA+ clients, neurodiverse individuals, consensual non-monogamous couples, blended families, and those navigating immigration and acculturation.
Madison has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an evidence-based approach that helps individuals, couples, and families deepen emotional connection and navigate relational challenges. She supports clients with curiosity and compassion and is committed to ongoing growth to best support their healing and well-being.
(520) 702-4011 View (520) 702-4011
Photo of Cher Anderton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Cher Anderton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
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 Melissa A Cox-Pasqua - The Empowerment Group,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, RN, BSN
The Empowerment Group,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, RN, BSN
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
We have openings for clients and an intern program if you are needing discounted rates. We are starting new groups call 602-525-5783 to join. What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? Let's get started! I work with individuals and families from birth to 100+! I have literally worked with families from birth to the end of life, focusing on working through those matters or events in life that hold each of us back from our full potential. Isn't it time for your optimal life? Life can be heavy and I will work with you and your family or friends to help you locate and access your inner strength to guide your life's journey.
We have openings for clients and an intern program if you are needing discounted rates. We are starting new groups call 602-525-5783 to join. What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail? Let's get started! I work with individuals and families from birth to 100+! I have literally worked with families from birth to the end of life, focusing on working through those matters or events in life that hold each of us back from our full potential. Isn't it time for your optimal life? Life can be heavy and I will work with you and your family or friends to help you locate and access your inner strength to guide your life's journey.
(602) 663-9111 View (602) 663-9111
Photo of Courtney L Ransom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Courtney L Ransom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Phoenix, AZ 85007
NOW Accepting Immigration Asylum Seekers for Mental Health Evaluations. Do you suffer from constant anxiety and or panic attacks? Do you have a history of loss, difficult relationships and other traumatic experiences that hurt when you think about them today? Well, you are not alone. Seeking counseling can be an anxious time for many people, yet I believe it can be the start to a positive and productive experience. I believe joining with my clients to create a therapy experience tailored to their individual needs. The therapy sessions will be a safe place to gain new skills to help you live a more prosperous and fulfilling life.
NOW Accepting Immigration Asylum Seekers for Mental Health Evaluations. Do you suffer from constant anxiety and or panic attacks? Do you have a history of loss, difficult relationships and other traumatic experiences that hurt when you think about them today? Well, you are not alone. Seeking counseling can be an anxious time for many people, yet I believe it can be the start to a positive and productive experience. I believe joining with my clients to create a therapy experience tailored to their individual needs. The therapy sessions will be a safe place to gain new skills to help you live a more prosperous and fulfilling life.
(786) 244-7347 View (786) 244-7347
Photo of Jessica Utterback, Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Jessica Utterback
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
8 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85015
Accepting NEW clients! I am a trauma informed therapist who uses EMDR, IFS and Ketamine Assisted Psychotheraly (KAP) to find the root causes for client’s symptoms. My goal is to help the client discover the root of what’s causing distress and work to heal the root and not just treat the symptoms. I pay particular attention to adverse experiences throughout one's life and how those experiences and the beliefs one has about their value and identity.
Accepting NEW clients! I am a trauma informed therapist who uses EMDR, IFS and Ketamine Assisted Psychotheraly (KAP) to find the root causes for client’s symptoms. My goal is to help the client discover the root of what’s causing distress and work to heal the root and not just treat the symptoms. I pay particular attention to adverse experiences throughout one's life and how those experiences and the beliefs one has about their value and identity.
(480) 999-9368 View (480) 999-9368
Photo of Adrienne Gibson, Counselor, MA, LPC
Adrienne Gibson
Counselor, MA, LPC
9 Endorsed
Mesa, AZ 85215
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anger management, ADHD, anxiety, abuse and trauma, adoption and attachment, parenting struggles, and grief and loss.
My work is grounded in being trauma-informed. What this means with adults is, that I use narrative therapy because we organize and understand our lives by rendering them into story form. I use somatic experiencing therapy, a body-centric approach that works on releasing stress, tension, and trauma in the body. I am also trained in EMDR.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns such as depression, anger management, ADHD, anxiety, abuse and trauma, adoption and attachment, parenting struggles, and grief and loss.
My work is grounded in being trauma-informed. What this means with adults is, that I use narrative therapy because we organize and understand our lives by rendering them into story form. I use somatic experiencing therapy, a body-centric approach that works on releasing stress, tension, and trauma in the body. I am also trained in EMDR.
(480) 906-3600 View (480) 906-3600
Photo of Angela Tapp, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CHT, EMDR
Angela Tapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CHT, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Care to embark on a journey of transcendence and holistic healing? As a trauma-informed, humor-infused, transpersonal psychotherapist, I specialize in guiding individuals and couples to “let go”, to rise above the ego, explore the depths of human consciousness, and to embark on profound journeys of self-discovery. My approach focuses on navigating various states of consciousness and awareness to promote healing, growth, ego dissolution and self-transcendence. "Some changes look negative on the surface but you will soon realize that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge." - E. Tolle
Care to embark on a journey of transcendence and holistic healing? As a trauma-informed, humor-infused, transpersonal psychotherapist, I specialize in guiding individuals and couples to “let go”, to rise above the ego, explore the depths of human consciousness, and to embark on profound journeys of self-discovery. My approach focuses on navigating various states of consciousness and awareness to promote healing, growth, ego dissolution and self-transcendence. "Some changes look negative on the surface but you will soon realize that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge." - E. Tolle
(720) 650-7748 View (720) 650-7748
Photo of Diana Gelfand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Diana Gelfand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach blends evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a deep understanding of pediatric medical complexities, foster care/ adoption and parenting.
As a licensed telehealth therapist and foster adoptive parent of children with special needs and medical complexities, I understand how important it is to work with someone who truly gets it. Parenting and caregiving in this space can feel overwhelming, isolating, and at times uncertain. The constant mix of grief, anxiety, love, and hope can be a daily emotional rollercoaster. You may be longing for balance — a way to hold both acceptance and joy while developing healthy, sustainable coping strategies for this unexpected path. Therapy can be a space to process the hard emotions and reconnect with your identity beyond caregiving.
My approach blends evidence-based techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a deep understanding of pediatric medical complexities, foster care/ adoption and parenting.
As a licensed telehealth therapist and foster adoptive parent of children with special needs and medical complexities, I understand how important it is to work with someone who truly gets it. Parenting and caregiving in this space can feel overwhelming, isolating, and at times uncertain. The constant mix of grief, anxiety, love, and hope can be a daily emotional rollercoaster. You may be longing for balance — a way to hold both acceptance and joy while developing healthy, sustainable coping strategies for this unexpected path. Therapy can be a space to process the hard emotions and reconnect with your identity beyond caregiving.
(954) 833-7412 View (954) 833-7412
Photo of Sharon Carl - Mending Hearts Family Services, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Mending Hearts Family Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Glendale, AZ 85308
I hold an MA degree in Counseling from Ottawa University and an MA in education from Arizona State University. In addition, I hold an advanced Graduate Specialization in Marriage and Family therapy. I am an LPC, and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. I am trauma informed and practice from an attachment-base model. I use strength-based assessments to develop an individualized treatment plan for each client that is based upon the identified needs.
I hold an MA degree in Counseling from Ottawa University and an MA in education from Arizona State University. In addition, I hold an advanced Graduate Specialization in Marriage and Family therapy. I am an LPC, and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. I am trauma informed and practice from an attachment-base model. I use strength-based assessments to develop an individualized treatment plan for each client that is based upon the identified needs.
(602) 456-5248 View (602) 456-5248
Photo of Jennifer Rosenfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Rosenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have worked with some of the more difficult needs that children and adolescents have with a specialty in attachment, trauma and adoption.
As a trauma, attachment and adoption specialist I have received years of specialized training. I can offer parent support and education as well as individual and family therapy to address improving relationships and reducing negative or at-risk behaviors. My interventions are based on my clients needs. They include play, art, sandtray, CBT and more.
I have worked with some of the more difficult needs that children and adolescents have with a specialty in attachment, trauma and adoption.
As a trauma, attachment and adoption specialist I have received years of specialized training. I can offer parent support and education as well as individual and family therapy to address improving relationships and reducing negative or at-risk behaviors. My interventions are based on my clients needs. They include play, art, sandtray, CBT and more.
(516) 830-4803 View (516) 830-4803
Photo of Lisa Fortino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lisa Fortino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
I came to this work as a result of the adoption of my daughter through the foster care system in California. From the day I began work, I have devoted my work to the well-being of others. I specialize in: EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, trauma therapy, Gottman Method of couples therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, strengths-base therapies and more. I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families through difficult times and assist people in finding their best selves. I truly have seen real growth and healing in people through positive guidance.
I came to this work as a result of the adoption of my daughter through the foster care system in California. From the day I began work, I have devoted my work to the well-being of others. I specialize in: EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, trauma therapy, Gottman Method of couples therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, strengths-base therapies and more. I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families through difficult times and assist people in finding their best selves. I truly have seen real growth and healing in people through positive guidance.
(480) 498-0848 View (480) 498-0848

See more therapy options for Carefree

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.