Adoption Therapists in Washington, DC
See all therapists in Washington
Julia Han
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
I know that finding the right therapist is a daunting process, so thank you for reading my site. Those who work with me appreciate how engaged & active I am, when needed. We will explore not only the reasons for your difficulties, BUT more importantly, how stress affects your body; how you internalize thoughts of self & others. I will give you tools to help with difficult emotions; manage stress effectively. I also specialize in: 1) postpartum, 2) trauma/grief, 3) non-traditional family formation, 4)
adoption
, 5) ThirdCultureKid, 6) LGBQ. I am happy to provide a phone consult; this will also allow you to get a sense of me.

Jonathan Christophel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified
Verified
My clinical areas of specialization and interests include, but are not limited to,
adoption
, depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and grief and loss.
I look forward to working with you, or your children, in overcoming current obstacles and life challenges. In my experience in working with adults, children, and families, they have all the strengths and resources they need within themselves, and can reach their full potential within a safe, empathic therapeutic relationship.

Griff Doyle
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
I have spent 42 years treating adults and couples suffering from depression, disabling anxiety, repeated relational problems, trauma, and grief.I also speciaize in child developmental and play therapies with a range of challenges for which I design treatment plans individually. I determine the course of child treatment according to my assessment of their level of development. I involve parents to varying extents in the therapy. Over the years, I have become most specialized working with separation/divorce, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral, and neuro-developmental, and
adoption
difficulties for children and their families.

Joanne Wolf Small
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified
Verified
Forty years personal and professional experience uniquely qualifies me to understand the particular issues affecting individuals touched by
adoption
, infertility, kinship, attachment, and DNA search.
I believe we are all finally recognizing that a more holistic approach to treatment is needed. With over 40+ years of experience working in community mental health and private practice, I know the importance on our assessing and understanding all of the ways society impacts every individual. Everything around us matters, even beyond our personal relationships with our families, colleagues and friends. Speaking as a proud social worker, I know to effectively diagnose and treat a human problem needs a fully inclusive, psycho-social model of evaluation. I am here, tailored to help for your specific and unique needs.

Roberta F Rinker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified
Verified
Welcome to Connected IV Life! I am a Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with adolescents, young adults and their families. In addition, I am an attachment and
adoption
competent therapist, specializing in adolescents, young adults and their families who have been adopted internationally and domestically, whether through the foster care system or private agency
adoption
. I partner with teens, young adults and their families to support their journey to adulthood by helping them to better connect to themselves, their family, and their community. We recognize connection is a basic human need!

The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Are you wondering if your child's current struggles are related to developmental challenges related to
adoption
or something else; struggling with decisions about how and when to share specific
adoption
information with your child; is your child ready for search/reunion; need assistance navigating an open
adoption
, behavioral challenges? Give me a call.
Touched by
Adoption
? The Barker Foundation recognizes that
adoption
is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.

Autumnleaf Group, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified
Verified
The desire to experience relief for your current circumstances has led you to this very moment. We invite you to connect with us. We work with clients experiencing a variety of issues to such as readiness to disrupt old patterns that no longer serve you, trauma (stemming from past/recent events), relationship concerns, stress, grief/loss, anxiety, divorce, parenting, transitions in life/work, seeking intrapersonal growth, money relationship/behavior struggles, self-esteem, family conflict,
adoption
/attachment, anger management and adjustment issues.

Carolyn Bell
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, MBA
Verified
Verified
Are you seeking deeper attachment? I work with couples and individuals increasing your awareness in daily moments. In a trusting environment, I help clients process life-changing events including loss and grief, chronic health diagnoses,
adoption
, and job growth and relocation. I offer support for couples who want to strengthen their relationships and resolve issues preventing emotional and sexual intimacy. Where appropriate, I offer intensive therapy to bring clarity and begin the healing process of life experiences. I am licensed in DC and VA.
Not accepting new clients

Pamela Coin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified
Verified
In addition, I have completed a post masters
Adoption
Certificate thru Michigan State University.
Are you having some challenges with processing feelings and thoughts? I can help with self-esteem; relationships patterns and emotional regulation. I have extensive experience in providing individual therapy to identify behavior patterns of the past and present, so to initiate change for the future. I assist clients in understanding underlying feelings and thoughts that may motivate undesirable behavior. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Psychodymanic insight and Mindfulness to teach you ways to change unhealthy automatic thought process. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and have worked within the fluidity of gender; cultural and racial identity.

Katalin Vladar
MD, CGP
Verified
Verified
As a psychiatrist and therapist, I offer both medication management and psychotherapy, fitting best mental health needs. I work with adolescents, adults and couples. I can help with the effects of traumatic experiences, with troubles of everyday living, interpersonal difficulties, sexuality, or infertility/
adoption
issues. I can help if you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief or with not reaching your goals. I assist couples in resolving painful, conflicted relationship issues. I also provide long-term therapy for self-exploration, and for changing complex personality patterns that make everyday life difficult.

Dr. Jesse Walker
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified
Verified
I’m a Black, multiracial, psychology associate in Washington, D.C., and I provide therapeutic services to adults of all ages, backgrounds, cultures and identities. While I work with all types of people, I have a particular interest in providing services to those who identify as multiracial, biracial, or mixed; BIPOC navigating predominantly white spaces; addressing issues of identity, family, relationships, and multicultural concerns. I also enjoy working with people in the midst of major life transitions - such as pregnancy, postpartum,
adoption
, marriage, break ups, loss, and career transitions.
15 Second Videos
Abayomi Nichols
Turner Lyfe Around Counseling, LLC
Sarah Levy
Sara Oliveri
Nicole Moore
Jessica Cetoute
Alloy Wellness
Rooted to Rise, LLC (Approved Clinical Supervisor)
Katy Cribbs
Dustin Winkel
Laura DiCesare
Jill Weber
Julie M Kotler
Pat Webbink
Bonnie S. Eisenberg
Pascale Brady
Nancy Sharpe
Tashia Chambers
TheraCouch
Relationship Consultants
Meagan Faraone
Tricia Ryan Counseling PLLC
Brandon Johnson
Healthy Minds Therapy
Not accepting new clients

Julia Rosenfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
In addition to my general practice, I have extensive experience and special interests in college mental health,
adoption
-related concerns, allergies and chronic health conditions, and cross-cultural issues.
Welcome to my practice, conveniently located in the heart of Dupont Circle. I offer therapy for individuals of all backgrounds experiencing a range of concerns, including: anxiety, depression, life transitions, identity issues, relationship challenges, grief and loss, chronic health conditions,
adoption
-related concerns, and more. My style is warm, nonjudgmental, and collaborative. I will work with you to help you increase your insight, enhance your relationships, build on your strengths, develop new coping skills, and live a more fulfilling life.

Abayomi Nichols
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LMHC
Verified
Verified
Couples Counseling and coaching . In my 20+ years of providing counseling services I have helped individuals, couples and families deal with issues such as depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, relationship issues,
adoption
concerns, anger management, quarterlife issues, infidelity and more. If you are interested in making changes in your life and need someone to help with the journey look no further. In addition to working with families and individuals I also provide crisis support through EAP ,provide training and Key Note Speaker .Currently everything is through phone or video. See me on Alma, Sondermind, Headway & MDLive
Not accepting new clients

Cynthia E. Killough
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
I offer a range of testing services including ADHD evaluation,
adoption
readiness reports, disability opinions, and admissions testing.
I use an active, serious and friendly approach to help you figure out where you are right now and how to move forward. Talking with a professional psychologist can organize your thinking and transform your outlook. You can overcome issues such as anxiety, fearfulness, low mood, career concerns, dating troubles, family problems and more when you move past emotional roadblocks. Problem-solve for 1-2 sessions or take a deeper look at your underlying thoughts and habits. When you understand yourself more fully you can take action to make your life better.

Raven E. Jenerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
My inclusive, holistic approach integrates trauma-informed, intersectional, cultural and creative practices into my healing work with folx navigating trauma, inner child wounds, low self-esteem, life after foster care or
adoption
, anxiety, depression, addictions, substance use, triggers or flashbacks associated with intimate partner or sexual violence.
There are many layers and textures in each of our stories and individual healing journeys, that may make us believe that healing is impossible or that inner wellness after trauma is unattainable. You are worthy and capable of the healing you're envisioning. For many of us, a safe healing space is the first step in that journey back to self and is the support we’ve been searching for to become the next best version of ourselves. Together, we co-create the space you need to celebrate your innate wisdom; restore trust in your intuition and voice; and nurture your growth towards more healing and easeful living.

Katie Zweig
Counselor, LGPC
Verified
Verified
Along with eating disorders I also work with people struggling with mood disorders, trauma, and
adoption
related issues.
Do you struggle with disordered eating, body image issues, or low self-esteem? I specialize in helping people heal their relationship with food and exercise. As a therapist I strive to create a warm, accepting environment for clients to share their story. I have a special focus on emotion work and helping clients build self-compassion. My approach is collaborative and individualized, using techniques such as IFS, DBT, and CBT.

Maurine K Kelly
Psychologist, PhD, FIPA
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
I specialize in working with families, couples, groups, and individuals. I treat children as young as three, have experience with school phobia,
adoption
, blended families, gender issues, gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals, and the challenges of elderly. I am experienced working with psychoses, severe post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, and problems of every day life. I have special expertise working with the LGBTQ+ population, with adolescents, sexual development, severe mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical illnesses.

Katherine Hannon: Fertility & Infertility Therapy
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, MA, BCC
Verified
Verified
I am experienced working with: * explained/unexplained infertility * male/female factors * secondary Infertility * third-party options like donor egg, donor sperm, embryo
adoption
* surrogacy *
adoption
* miscarriage * infant loss * pregnancy and parenting after infertility * high-risk pregnancy * multiple gestation (twins, triplets) * pregnancy reductions * GLBT family building * single motherhood * living child-free.
Finding a therapist who is a great match is essential when you turn to counseling to help build or grow your family. You likely feel stressed, depressed, or isolated as you have encountered setbacks. I help individuals and couples experiencing infertility, coping with pregnancy loss, considering third-party reproduction or
adoption
, or deciding to live child-free. I have more than 20 years working with RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association. We will work as a team as I teach you to make challenging decisions, manage stress, enhance your relationship, heal from loss, and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Joan Rabinor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified
Verified
I bring to my practice the experience of forty years of professional work with individuals and couples, as well as the wisdom and personal growth that I have gained from dealing with my own life challenges. I am particularly effective with clients as they deal with forming and maintaining intimate relationships, sorting through identity and career conflicts, coping with grief and loss, and managing life transitions. Infertility and
adoption
issues have long been an area of expertise. All these situations are filled with intense emotionality and anguish yet demand solid, clear thinking.

Crystal Marcus August
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CGP
Verified
Verified
I have expertise in
adoption
, infertility, and the sometimes delayed residual experiences of trauma and abuse.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples, often in transition or crisis. If we work together, you will become more fully self-aware and present as you improve and deepen your relationships with others. I am a warm and engaged participant in the psychotherapy and problem-solving process and as such, I am continually awed by each person's story and the unique reservoirs found to deal with life's difficulties.
See more therapy options for
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.