Adoption Therapists in Jacksonville, FL

Photo of Stacey Mak Cales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stacey Mak Cales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
I have extensive training and experience in adoption and trauma.
I provide attachment-based therapy, assess and evaluate attachment patterns, and provide practical tools for managing challenges and goals. Using a variety of therapy models, sessions are tailored to the needs of each client and family. I have served as an expert witness, consultant, trainer, and guest speaker.
I have extensive training and experience in adoption and trauma.
I provide attachment-based therapy, assess and evaluate attachment patterns, and provide practical tools for managing challenges and goals. Using a variety of therapy models, sessions are tailored to the needs of each client and family. I have served as an expert witness, consultant, trainer, and guest speaker.
(904) 254-2440 View (904) 254-2440
Photo of Misti Demko, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
Misti Demko
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32218
If you’ve found your way here, you may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. You're not alone—and you don't have to figure it out by yourself. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where we can explore what’s holding you back and help you reconnect with your strengths. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, and I tailor therapy to your unique needs using evidence-based approaches like Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). These methods support deep healing, emotional clarity, and long-term change.
If you’ve found your way here, you may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of how to move forward. You're not alone—and you don't have to figure it out by yourself. I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space where we can explore what’s holding you back and help you reconnect with your strengths. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions, and I tailor therapy to your unique needs using evidence-based approaches like Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). These methods support deep healing, emotional clarity, and long-term change.
(904) 921-3446 View (904) 921-3446
Photo of Jennifer Eaton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jennifer Eaton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My diverse background spans school social work, special education support (including 504 Plans and IEPs), vocational services for adults with disabilities, and extensive experience in foster care and adoption.
I specialize in supporting individuals, parents, and families navigating complex life challenges, including parenting and raising children with disabilities/behavioral challenges. My strengths as a counselor also include helping adolescents and adults struggling with symptoms associated with depression and anxiety.
My diverse background spans school social work, special education support (including 504 Plans and IEPs), vocational services for adults with disabilities, and extensive experience in foster care and adoption.
I specialize in supporting individuals, parents, and families navigating complex life challenges, including parenting and raising children with disabilities/behavioral challenges. My strengths as a counselor also include helping adolescents and adults struggling with symptoms associated with depression and anxiety.
(727) 500-1098 View (727) 500-1098
Photo of Amanda Nicole Bailey - Willow Tree Therapy Services, LLC, Counselor, MS, LMHC, RPT
Willow Tree Therapy Services, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, RPT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
We offer individual mental health counseling to children, adolescents, grown ups, and families. Children can often times be difficult for adults to understand. Even those children who act like "little grownups" need help communicating their needs and feelings in a developmentally appropriate way. At times we have to uncover those challenging feelings through play. When facing difficulties, the entire family system can be impacted. I believe people are so resilient and have the inherent capability to work towards healing and growth when provided with a safe and supportive space.
We offer individual mental health counseling to children, adolescents, grown ups, and families. Children can often times be difficult for adults to understand. Even those children who act like "little grownups" need help communicating their needs and feelings in a developmentally appropriate way. At times we have to uncover those challenging feelings through play. When facing difficulties, the entire family system can be impacted. I believe people are so resilient and have the inherent capability to work towards healing and growth when provided with a safe and supportive space.
(904) 685-4379 View (904) 685-4379
Photo of Michelle de la Guardia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michelle de la Guardia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32204
Many individuals I see, want to gain clarity on how their past experiences influence how they feel, think, and relate to others. I offer support to clients so we can work together toward their feeling more grounded, clear and connected to themselves. My therapeutic approach focuses on deeply understanding each client's inner world and supporting them in processing their story. I work with clients to construct accurate and emotionally resonant narratives of their life experiences - narratives that are honest and meaningful.
Many individuals I see, want to gain clarity on how their past experiences influence how they feel, think, and relate to others. I offer support to clients so we can work together toward their feeling more grounded, clear and connected to themselves. My therapeutic approach focuses on deeply understanding each client's inner world and supporting them in processing their story. I work with clients to construct accurate and emotionally resonant narratives of their life experiences - narratives that are honest and meaningful.
(904) 736-4911 View (904) 736-4911
Photo of Stephanie Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stephanie Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Seeking telehealth services in Florida, South Carolina, and Virginia? Have you lost focus or motivation? Need a little encouragement and self-exploration? Pulled in many directions with a mountain of responsibilities? Feeling sluggish or depressed/stressed? I am excited to partner with you as we develop an effective clear approach to your success. I am here to partner with you as we integrate a whole self-approach to addressing all of your needs. You deserve a safe place to heal.
Seeking telehealth services in Florida, South Carolina, and Virginia? Have you lost focus or motivation? Need a little encouragement and self-exploration? Pulled in many directions with a mountain of responsibilities? Feeling sluggish or depressed/stressed? I am excited to partner with you as we develop an effective clear approach to your success. I am here to partner with you as we integrate a whole self-approach to addressing all of your needs. You deserve a safe place to heal.
(904) 799-7278 View (904) 799-7278
Photo of Tara Griffith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Tara Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32257
My ideal clients have lived experience related to adoption, individuals and couples who have experienced infertility or have reached a plateau in their relationship for various other reasons, active duty military members and their families, loss of a loved one, chronic pain, medical complexities, sleep disorders, and symptoms related to womens mental health.
Hello, my name is Tara Griffith. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida. I am a firm believer that you are who you are because of where you have come from. I enjoy working with others who due to adverse childhood experiences and various traumas throughout life, are ready to work through these traumas and experiences. We become the best versions of ourselves by working through our challenges! This better equips us with the tools necessary to face everyday struggles.
My ideal clients have lived experience related to adoption, individuals and couples who have experienced infertility or have reached a plateau in their relationship for various other reasons, active duty military members and their families, loss of a loved one, chronic pain, medical complexities, sleep disorders, and symptoms related to womens mental health.
Hello, my name is Tara Griffith. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Florida. I am a firm believer that you are who you are because of where you have come from. I enjoy working with others who due to adverse childhood experiences and various traumas throughout life, are ready to work through these traumas and experiences. We become the best versions of ourselves by working through our challenges! This better equips us with the tools necessary to face everyday struggles.
(904) 867-2078 View (904) 867-2078
Photo of Maia Cochran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Maia Cochran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I work well with family's struggling with adoption, attachment & general conflict.
I welcome those that feel lost, overwhelmed by life's burdens and are in need of extra support. Whether you are dealing with new stress or struggling with past trauma- I want to help you work through it. I put special care into building the therapeutic bond and creating warm/safe spaces for clients to feel safe enough to be themselves and speak their truth without fear. I have a passion for working with those struggling with trauma, depression, low self-worth/self-esteem, life-transitions, family conflict and anxiety.
I work well with family's struggling with adoption, attachment & general conflict.
I welcome those that feel lost, overwhelmed by life's burdens and are in need of extra support. Whether you are dealing with new stress or struggling with past trauma- I want to help you work through it. I put special care into building the therapeutic bond and creating warm/safe spaces for clients to feel safe enough to be themselves and speak their truth without fear. I have a passion for working with those struggling with trauma, depression, low self-worth/self-esteem, life-transitions, family conflict and anxiety.
(904) 830-6819 View (904) 830-6819
Photo of Macy Grim, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Macy Grim
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Online Only
I’m a mom, professor, and therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and parents. Through play and adventure therapy, I help children express emotions in ways that feel natural to them, while also supporting parents in building strong, loving connections with their kids. My goal is to create a safe space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
I’m a mom, professor, and therapist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and parents. Through play and adventure therapy, I help children express emotions in ways that feel natural to them, while also supporting parents in building strong, loving connections with their kids. My goal is to create a safe space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
(904) 849-9368 View (904) 849-9368
Photo of Amy Klarich, Counselor, LMHC, ACT, MA
Amy Klarich
Counselor, LMHC, ACT, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Amy Klarich, LMHC, MA, and I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, stress, trauma, PTSD, grief, depressed mood, and major life transitions, with a special interest in women’s issues and self-worth. I also provide career counseling and workplace support for those seeking balance, confidence, and fulfillment in their professional lives. My clients often come to therapy feeling stuck or overwhelmed, ready to find calm, clarity, and strength within themselves.
Hi, I’m Amy Klarich, LMHC, MA, and I specialize in helping adults navigate anxiety, stress, trauma, PTSD, grief, depressed mood, and major life transitions, with a special interest in women’s issues and self-worth. I also provide career counseling and workplace support for those seeking balance, confidence, and fulfillment in their professional lives. My clients often come to therapy feeling stuck or overwhelmed, ready to find calm, clarity, and strength within themselves.
(941) 999-3591 View (941) 999-3591
Photo of Mindi Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-QS, LCSW-GA, LISW-CP, CBHCMS
Mindi Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-QS, LCSW-GA, LISW-CP, CBHCMS
Online Only
My ideal client is ready — or willing — to explore the deeper layers of their story. They may feel stuck, overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, or struggle to balance caregiving with self-care. They carry generational wounds, feel disconnected from purpose, and long to feel spiritually whole. Often deeply compassionate, they struggle to offer themselves the care they give others. They seek to feel safe, seen, and empowered to release burdens, cultivate self-compassion, set boundaries, and truly thrive.
My ideal client is ready — or willing — to explore the deeper layers of their story. They may feel stuck, overwhelmed by anxiety, grief, or struggle to balance caregiving with self-care. They carry generational wounds, feel disconnected from purpose, and long to feel spiritually whole. Often deeply compassionate, they struggle to offer themselves the care they give others. They seek to feel safe, seen, and empowered to release burdens, cultivate self-compassion, set boundaries, and truly thrive.
(912) 455-6920 View (912) 455-6920
Alfred Gerogiannis
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals experiencing mental health and substance use challenges, often including co-occurring disorders, trauma histories, or crisis-related needs. Many are seeking stability, structure, and a safe space to begin or continue their recovery process. They come to therapy during moments of emotional distress, transition, or legal/system involvement. I support them through strengths-based, trauma-informed care, helping build coping skills, insight, and connection to their existing support systems.
I work with individuals experiencing mental health and substance use challenges, often including co-occurring disorders, trauma histories, or crisis-related needs. Many are seeking stability, structure, and a safe space to begin or continue their recovery process. They come to therapy during moments of emotional distress, transition, or legal/system involvement. I support them through strengths-based, trauma-informed care, helping build coping skills, insight, and connection to their existing support systems.
(904) 243-4363 View (904) 243-4363
Photo of Annemarie Balfanz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Annemarie Balfanz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a brighter and healthier future! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) located in Florida with almost a decade of experience and a passion for helping others. Whether you're facing long-term trauma or just trying to get through the week, I’m here to help you make sense of things and move forward with more confidence and self-compassion. I am a native German speaker, so am more than willing to provide therapy in German as well, if requested. In my free time, I enjoy doing arts and crafts, traveling, and being in nature.
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a brighter and healthier future! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) located in Florida with almost a decade of experience and a passion for helping others. Whether you're facing long-term trauma or just trying to get through the week, I’m here to help you make sense of things and move forward with more confidence and self-compassion. I am a native German speaker, so am more than willing to provide therapy in German as well, if requested. In my free time, I enjoy doing arts and crafts, traveling, and being in nature.
(904) 621-2610 View (904) 621-2610
Photo of Matthew South, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Matthew South
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood and supported. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or identity exploration, I work collaboratively to help you navigate these challenges. I specialize in trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and holistic approaches. My experience includes working with youth, LGBTQIA+ individuals, veterans, and those seeking clarity in relationships and personal growth.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood and supported. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or identity exploration, I work collaboratively to help you navigate these challenges. I specialize in trauma-focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and holistic approaches. My experience includes working with youth, LGBTQIA+ individuals, veterans, and those seeking clarity in relationships and personal growth.
(904) 867-3461 View (904) 867-3461
Photo of Rita F Dellatore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Rita F Dellatore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Taking the first step and reaching out for help can take courage because this is not always an easy thing to do, so you should feel proud of yourself for taking the initiative to wanting a healthier life. Over the years, I have worked with a variety of clients in several different settings. I would say that I am most effective with people that are motivated and have a desire to want better out of life. As scary as it may feel, they are willing to be their true, genuine self and together we will work as a team to build on your strengths and learn new coping skills to help get through of many of life's challenges.
Taking the first step and reaching out for help can take courage because this is not always an easy thing to do, so you should feel proud of yourself for taking the initiative to wanting a healthier life. Over the years, I have worked with a variety of clients in several different settings. I would say that I am most effective with people that are motivated and have a desire to want better out of life. As scary as it may feel, they are willing to be their true, genuine self and together we will work as a team to build on your strengths and learn new coping skills to help get through of many of life's challenges.
(904) 977-2266 View (904) 977-2266
Photo of Dedra Jackson - Transformation Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor, MS, LMHC
Transformation Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
Transformation Counseling Services, LLC is a private counseling practice that provides affordable and confidential services to individuals, couples, and families. We understand that life can be difficult and challenging at times. We are here to assist you in making positive changes so that you can enjoy life again. Our therapists have experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relationship difficulties, and family conflict. We offer a supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts and feelings.
Transformation Counseling Services, LLC is a private counseling practice that provides affordable and confidential services to individuals, couples, and families. We understand that life can be difficult and challenging at times. We are here to assist you in making positive changes so that you can enjoy life again. Our therapists have experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relationship difficulties, and family conflict. We offer a supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore your thoughts and feelings.
(904) 531-0648 x904776 View (904) 531-0648 x904776
Photo of Sophia Venditti, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sophia Venditti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
I get it—life can be a lot sometimes, especially when you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or the impact of past trauma. Maybe you're constantly overthinking, feeling stuck, or just trying to hold it all together while everything feels like it’s falling apart underneath. You don’t have to go through it alone. I offer a space where you can just show up as you are—no masks, no pressure to have it all figured out. Think of it like a real, honest conversation between two people, where you can feel safe to unpack what’s going on. I’ll be there to listen, support, and help you make sense of things in a way that feels doable and groun
I get it—life can be a lot sometimes, especially when you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or the impact of past trauma. Maybe you're constantly overthinking, feeling stuck, or just trying to hold it all together while everything feels like it’s falling apart underneath. You don’t have to go through it alone. I offer a space where you can just show up as you are—no masks, no pressure to have it all figured out. Think of it like a real, honest conversation between two people, where you can feel safe to unpack what’s going on. I’ll be there to listen, support, and help you make sense of things in a way that feels doable and groun
(904) 593-4207 View (904) 593-4207
Theresa G. Stanford
Counselor, LMHC, NCBT
Jacksonville, FL 32207
I offer individual counseling with an emphasis on Stress Management/Relaxation Principals and Biofeedback therapy. I also work with couples and family relationships dynamics to enhance better communication skills with each other. Children with ADD and ADHD also benefit from Biofeedback which is offered here.
I offer individual counseling with an emphasis on Stress Management/Relaxation Principals and Biofeedback therapy. I also work with couples and family relationships dynamics to enhance better communication skills with each other. Children with ADD and ADHD also benefit from Biofeedback which is offered here.
(904) 373-1699 View (904) 373-1699
Photo of Lorraine Michelle Lee, Counselor, BA, MS, RMHC
Lorraine Michelle Lee
Counselor, BA, MS, RMHC
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32225
Feeling out of sorts? Sometimes life can throw you cure balls, and when that happens, you can be made to feel as if there is no way out. If you are ready to face yourself then help is one email, text or call away! I am a loving and caring person, who loves helping others. No one is perfect, and sometimes we need others to lend a hand or sometimes just to listen. I am here to help! Remember if you're having a bad day start over. People pleasing causes stress and anxiety. Make yourself happy first, give me a call!
Feeling out of sorts? Sometimes life can throw you cure balls, and when that happens, you can be made to feel as if there is no way out. If you are ready to face yourself then help is one email, text or call away! I am a loving and caring person, who loves helping others. No one is perfect, and sometimes we need others to lend a hand or sometimes just to listen. I am here to help! Remember if you're having a bad day start over. People pleasing causes stress and anxiety. Make yourself happy first, give me a call!
(904) 320-1645 View (904) 320-1645
Photo of Linda Carzoli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Linda Carzoli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32246
"If you feel like you're losing everything, remember that trees lose their leaves every year and they still stand tall and wait for better days to come." (Lessons Learned in Life). Life has many challenges, I want to help you/your family through these times so you come out stronger than ever.
"If you feel like you're losing everything, remember that trees lose their leaves every year and they still stand tall and wait for better days to come." (Lessons Learned in Life). Life has many challenges, I want to help you/your family through these times so you come out stronger than ever.
(904) 747-3312 View (904) 747-3312

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.