Adoption Therapists in Lowndes County, GA

Photo of Deborah M Kinlaw - The Decision Tree, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, SAP
The Decision Tree, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I hold a certificate in adoption competency from the leading accredited C
I am a native New Yorker with over 23 yrs experience in health & human services, working with people from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and age groups. Deciding what to do about: a troubled child, aging/ailing loved one, workplace challenges, relationship issues, or personal struggles can be draining, complicated, and discouraging. My emergency room/crisis work history has given me special skills to help with sudden life changes as well as long-standing problems. One thing is sure, a healthy mindset is the foundation for strong relationships and successful living. I am eager to help you get to your best self!
I hold a certificate in adoption competency from the leading accredited C
I am a native New Yorker with over 23 yrs experience in health & human services, working with people from various backgrounds, ethnicities, and age groups. Deciding what to do about: a troubled child, aging/ailing loved one, workplace challenges, relationship issues, or personal struggles can be draining, complicated, and discouraging. My emergency room/crisis work history has given me special skills to help with sudden life changes as well as long-standing problems. One thing is sure, a healthy mindset is the foundation for strong relationships and successful living. I am eager to help you get to your best self!
(478) 449-7101 View (478) 449-7101
Photo of Dr. Clarissa 'clare' Alderman, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, ICAADC, NCC, DCC
Dr. Clarissa 'clare' Alderman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, ICAADC, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31601
Waitlist for new clients
DClare Alderman has worked as a high school counselor and later assistant principal at Cook High School. Clare began working with families in the community providing in-home-based wrap-around counseling services for both parents and children. Provide individual counseling, family counseling, group counseling for teens as well as therapeutic services for foster families. Worked as a substance abuse counselor providing education as well as treatment for addiction disorders.Provides individual, and family therapy services focused on mental health issues related to depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction, anger,
DClare Alderman has worked as a high school counselor and later assistant principal at Cook High School. Clare began working with families in the community providing in-home-based wrap-around counseling services for both parents and children. Provide individual counseling, family counseling, group counseling for teens as well as therapeutic services for foster families. Worked as a substance abuse counselor providing education as well as treatment for addiction disorders.Provides individual, and family therapy services focused on mental health issues related to depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction, anger,
(229) 207-0987 View (229) 207-0987
Photo of Stacey Parramore Adams, Counselor, MPA, MS, LMHC
Stacey Parramore Adams
Counselor, MPA, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Life can be unpredictable, throwing unexpected challenges our way—whether it's divorce, single parenthood, unemployment, or the sudden loss. These stressful events can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unbalanced. My name is Stacey Adams, and I personally understand the weight of these experiences and the courage it takes to seek help. Reaching out is a vital step toward restoring calm and finding balance in your mind and life. My mission is to empower individuals to navigate and overcome trauma through therapeutic tools tailored to each client's unique journey. Together, we embark on a self-empowered healing process.
Life can be unpredictable, throwing unexpected challenges our way—whether it's divorce, single parenthood, unemployment, or the sudden loss. These stressful events can leave us feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unbalanced. My name is Stacey Adams, and I personally understand the weight of these experiences and the courage it takes to seek help. Reaching out is a vital step toward restoring calm and finding balance in your mind and life. My mission is to empower individuals to navigate and overcome trauma through therapeutic tools tailored to each client's unique journey. Together, we embark on a self-empowered healing process.
(229) 410-3169 View (229) 410-3169
Photo of Patricia Cosey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Patricia Cosey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
I enjoy the therapeutic process and helping people to grow, change, develop, and become. I enjoy helping people develop a plan of self care in a safe and nonjudgmental setting. With today's challenges to find time for self care I have recently added two new services to include: Tele-therapy as an option for clients who cannot come into the office for traditional services, and emotional support animal evaluation for those who need documentation of their need for their emotional support pet.
I enjoy the therapeutic process and helping people to grow, change, develop, and become. I enjoy helping people develop a plan of self care in a safe and nonjudgmental setting. With today's challenges to find time for self care I have recently added two new services to include: Tele-therapy as an option for clients who cannot come into the office for traditional services, and emotional support animal evaluation for those who need documentation of their need for their emotional support pet.
(229) 471-1876 View (229) 471-1876
Photo of Lauren Duren, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, RPT
Lauren Duren
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, RPT
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31605
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Christian Counselor who enjoys working with adults & couples in office and online. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds experiencing issues related to anxiety/worry, depression, developing healthy boundaries, stress management, relationship issues, military specific issues, parenting, healing from childhood wounds, grief & loss and spiritual growth/development. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR & BLAST techniques for trauma. Together, we build a safe place for you to feel seen & heard, identify goals for healing, process barriers and gain skills to meet these goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Christian Counselor who enjoys working with adults & couples in office and online. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds experiencing issues related to anxiety/worry, depression, developing healthy boundaries, stress management, relationship issues, military specific issues, parenting, healing from childhood wounds, grief & loss and spiritual growth/development. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR & BLAST techniques for trauma. Together, we build a safe place for you to feel seen & heard, identify goals for healing, process barriers and gain skills to meet these goals.
(229) 463-0517 View (229) 463-0517
Photo of Leah C. McMillan, Marriage & Family Therapist, DPA, LMFT, CFRC
Leah C. McMillan
Marriage & Family Therapist, DPA, LMFT, CFRC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
I have extensive clinical experience, 20 years+, working in the trauma-related, mental health, and counseling fields. I have been clinically licensed as a LMFT since 2006 and am an active member (clinical fellow) of AAMFT/GAMFT. My clinical path has allowed me to gain significant knowledge and experience in the field of mental health & counseling, clinical consultation, and speaking. I provide ongoing counseling in the areas of individual (children, adolescents, and adults), family, marital/couple/pre-marital, and group therapy. In addition, I am EMDR Trained and obtained my certification as a Certified First Responder Counselor.
(229) 515-8880 View (229) 515-8880
Photo of Justin Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Justin Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valdosta, GA 31602
Justin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and has been actively working in the Valdosta community for over five years. Justin is experienced in working with individuals, couples and families, helping them navigate many of life's obstacles, from individual needs to helping the entire family. While Justin works with all family structures, his primary specialty is helping families reach their teenager as they prepare to enter adulthood. Whether you or your family is in need of change, needs help adjusting to the ups and downs of life, or if it is time to begin unpacking those experiences from long ago.
Justin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and has been actively working in the Valdosta community for over five years. Justin is experienced in working with individuals, couples and families, helping them navigate many of life's obstacles, from individual needs to helping the entire family. While Justin works with all family structures, his primary specialty is helping families reach their teenager as they prepare to enter adulthood. Whether you or your family is in need of change, needs help adjusting to the ups and downs of life, or if it is time to begin unpacking those experiences from long ago.
(229) 279-5290 View (229) 279-5290
Photo of Stephany A. Norris, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS, EMDR-T
Stephany A. Norris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CPCS, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31602
Waitlist for new clients
I strive to create an empathic, comfortable, and professional environment for my clients. I work with all types of individuals who struggle with many areas of difficulty. Any problem is not too big or too small; whether you are attempting to overcome a long term mental health issue, or are having difficulty adjusting to a life change. I love my work and I enjoy helping others work through life's many challenges. I care about taking a non-judgmental approach in evaluating and treating my clients, and I focus on pulling out personal strengths so that you are better prepared and enabled to find solutions.
I strive to create an empathic, comfortable, and professional environment for my clients. I work with all types of individuals who struggle with many areas of difficulty. Any problem is not too big or too small; whether you are attempting to overcome a long term mental health issue, or are having difficulty adjusting to a life change. I love my work and I enjoy helping others work through life's many challenges. I care about taking a non-judgmental approach in evaluating and treating my clients, and I focus on pulling out personal strengths so that you are better prepared and enabled to find solutions.
(229) 389-3042 View (229) 389-3042
Photo of Regina K. Wisenbaker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Regina K. Wisenbaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valdosta, GA 31602
I am eager to work with anyone who needs mental health therapy or addiction counseling. I have more experience working with those individuals who have been abused or suffered a traumatic event. I am certified trauma therapist as well as I am EMDR certified (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). I enjoy working with individuals who suffer with an addiction as well. My ideal client would be an individual who is ready to address issues of mental health or substance abuse.
I am eager to work with anyone who needs mental health therapy or addiction counseling. I have more experience working with those individuals who have been abused or suffered a traumatic event. I am certified trauma therapist as well as I am EMDR certified (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). I enjoy working with individuals who suffer with an addiction as well. My ideal client would be an individual who is ready to address issues of mental health or substance abuse.
(229) 469-8615 View (229) 469-8615
Photo of Judy Martin Trexler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Judy Martin Trexler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have been in practice for a number of years, so my experiences are varied. I work with everyone.....children, adolescents and adults. I am knowlegeable and skillful in the treatment of emotional, behavioral and substance abuse issues. I am fortunate to have practiced with extremely knowledgeable and skillful clinicians as my mentors so my skills go beyond the textbooks. I treat my clients with courtesy and respect; as I expect my friends and family to be treated should they ever need professional assistance. I give 100% in assisting them in resolving their issues. If I can't help them, I'll help them find someone who can.
I have been in practice for a number of years, so my experiences are varied. I work with everyone.....children, adolescents and adults. I am knowlegeable and skillful in the treatment of emotional, behavioral and substance abuse issues. I am fortunate to have practiced with extremely knowledgeable and skillful clinicians as my mentors so my skills go beyond the textbooks. I treat my clients with courtesy and respect; as I expect my friends and family to be treated should they ever need professional assistance. I give 100% in assisting them in resolving their issues. If I can't help them, I'll help them find someone who can.
(229) 299-4362 View (229) 299-4362
Photo of LaFrancine Wells Bradford, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
LaFrancine Wells Bradford
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
At Lifetime Counseling and Management Services, I work with individuals and families seeking solutions to challenges like relationship struggles, personal growth, and emotional balance. I create a comfortable, stress-free environment while providing professional, client-focused care. As a marriage and family therapist, my straightforward yet compassionate approach empowers clients with the tools to make thoughtful decisions. Guided by integrity, confidentiality, professionalism, and a biblical foundation, I help clients turn challenges into opportunities for growth and thrive emotionally and relationally.
At Lifetime Counseling and Management Services, I work with individuals and families seeking solutions to challenges like relationship struggles, personal growth, and emotional balance. I create a comfortable, stress-free environment while providing professional, client-focused care. As a marriage and family therapist, my straightforward yet compassionate approach empowers clients with the tools to make thoughtful decisions. Guided by integrity, confidentiality, professionalism, and a biblical foundation, I help clients turn challenges into opportunities for growth and thrive emotionally and relationally.
(229) 442-9038 View (229) 442-9038

Online Therapists

Photo of Melanie Storrusten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melanie Storrusten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thomasville, GA 31792
Hello, I'm so glad you're taking these first steps towards support, healing, and relief. Whether you're struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, big decisions, the long-lasting impact of trauma, or any human challenge - therapy can be a place to gain tools, learn about yourself, make impactful changes, and above all to be seen, heard, and accepted. Therapy can also be hard work - facing uncomfortable feelings and truths. My work is infused with compassion and humor to make the hard parts a little softer. And my most favorite part of our work together will be the celebrations of your successes along the way.
Hello, I'm so glad you're taking these first steps towards support, healing, and relief. Whether you're struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, big decisions, the long-lasting impact of trauma, or any human challenge - therapy can be a place to gain tools, learn about yourself, make impactful changes, and above all to be seen, heard, and accepted. Therapy can also be hard work - facing uncomfortable feelings and truths. My work is infused with compassion and humor to make the hard parts a little softer. And my most favorite part of our work together will be the celebrations of your successes along the way.
(229) 702-7486 View (229) 702-7486
Photo of Elissa Gonzalez Ogonowski, Associate Professional Counselor, APC, NCC, MA
Elissa Gonzalez Ogonowski
Associate Professional Counselor, APC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Marys, GA 31558
As a veteran and former dependent, Elissa is familiar with addressing the needs of military families. Having years of experience with special needs children allows her knowledge into navigating the world of the differently abled. Professional degrees/certifications include an MA in clinical mental health counseling, BS in Psychology, MA in elementary education, and prior Georgia certification in regular education and special education. She worked in early intervention with Babies Can’t Wait and then as an investigator in child welfare for the state of GA. She is well versed in treating trauma for adults and children.
As a veteran and former dependent, Elissa is familiar with addressing the needs of military families. Having years of experience with special needs children allows her knowledge into navigating the world of the differently abled. Professional degrees/certifications include an MA in clinical mental health counseling, BS in Psychology, MA in elementary education, and prior Georgia certification in regular education and special education. She worked in early intervention with Babies Can’t Wait and then as an investigator in child welfare for the state of GA. She is well versed in treating trauma for adults and children.
(912) 520-7016 View (912) 520-7016
Photo of Ariel Scherer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ariel Scherer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi! My name is Ariel Scherer, LCSW. I am so glad that you are here. That first step is always the hardest, but you will soon find out how needed it was. With over seven years of experience, I specialize in empowering individuals of all ages in navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, child trauma, and life adjustments.
Hi! My name is Ariel Scherer, LCSW. I am so glad that you are here. That first step is always the hardest, but you will soon find out how needed it was. With over seven years of experience, I specialize in empowering individuals of all ages in navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, child trauma, and life adjustments.
(912) 913-8455 View (912) 913-8455
Photo of Nechelle Gordon, Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Nechelle Gordon
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
NeChelle Gordon is a nationally certified licensed professional counselor. She has had the pleasure of working with adults and children for more than ten years in multiple settings, including but not limited to a veterans and families outpatient clinic, women's substance abuse treatment, a maximum-level juvenile treatment center, and middle school settings.
NeChelle Gordon is a nationally certified licensed professional counselor. She has had the pleasure of working with adults and children for more than ten years in multiple settings, including but not limited to a veterans and families outpatient clinic, women's substance abuse treatment, a maximum-level juvenile treatment center, and middle school settings.
(912) 737-5972 View (912) 737-5972
Photo of Lindsay Bottoms, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS
Lindsay Bottoms
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingsland, GA 31548
Whether you are considering therapy for yourself, your child or family taking that first step can be one of the most challenging decisions! I will work collaboratively with you to ensure your therapy goals aligns with the changes you wish to make. Once you begin counseling, we will work together at a comfortable pace to complete these goals. Focusing on individual strengths, building resiliency and coping to master and achieve the challenges you or your family sought to overcome. In the end, you will have worked hard to achieve a happier and healthier new you!
Whether you are considering therapy for yourself, your child or family taking that first step can be one of the most challenging decisions! I will work collaboratively with you to ensure your therapy goals aligns with the changes you wish to make. Once you begin counseling, we will work together at a comfortable pace to complete these goals. Focusing on individual strengths, building resiliency and coping to master and achieve the challenges you or your family sought to overcome. In the end, you will have worked hard to achieve a happier and healthier new you!
(912) 372-3667 View (912) 372-3667
Photo of Teresa Latonja Walker - Walker Counseling and Consulting , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Walker Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello potential clients. I am delighted that you have decided to reach out for help with managing your issues/stressors. Rest assured that I am here to help you with whatever issues you are facing. Whether your issues are related to everyday life stressors; work/career stressors, couples/marital stressors, caregiver stressors, parenting stressors, or other issues such as grief/loss, depression, and/or anxiety I am here to help you set goals and help you to better manage those stressors. During our initial contact, we will also discuss the things that need to change in your life and your counseling expectations.
Hello potential clients. I am delighted that you have decided to reach out for help with managing your issues/stressors. Rest assured that I am here to help you with whatever issues you are facing. Whether your issues are related to everyday life stressors; work/career stressors, couples/marital stressors, caregiver stressors, parenting stressors, or other issues such as grief/loss, depression, and/or anxiety I am here to help you set goals and help you to better manage those stressors. During our initial contact, we will also discuss the things that need to change in your life and your counseling expectations.
(229) 210-3015 View (229) 210-3015
Photo of Bethany Comeau, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Bethany Comeau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
For as long as you can remember, perfectionism and people-pleasing have been your superpowers. Over the years, you’ve been described by others as conscientious, a hard worker, and maybe even an overachiever. But secretly, part of you actually believes that you’re an imposter and you’re terrified that people will eventually figure it out. Even worse, the thought of disappointing someone or telling them, “No,” overwhelms you with guilt. You wonder who you are without the approval of others, and you question your ability to trust your decisions. In short, you constantly feel like you have to manage other people's perceptions of you.
For as long as you can remember, perfectionism and people-pleasing have been your superpowers. Over the years, you’ve been described by others as conscientious, a hard worker, and maybe even an overachiever. But secretly, part of you actually believes that you’re an imposter and you’re terrified that people will eventually figure it out. Even worse, the thought of disappointing someone or telling them, “No,” overwhelms you with guilt. You wonder who you are without the approval of others, and you question your ability to trust your decisions. In short, you constantly feel like you have to manage other people's perceptions of you.
(678) 251-9235 View (678) 251-9235
Photo of Jennifer B King, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Jennifer B King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Oakfield, GA 31772
I'm Jen, and I've been counseling for over 15 years. I was a high school teacher before I started counseling. I specialize in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, African American culture, agricultural mental health training, life transitions, etc. My passion is meeting people where they are and helping them navigate life.
I'm Jen, and I've been counseling for over 15 years. I was a high school teacher before I started counseling. I specialize in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+, African American culture, agricultural mental health training, life transitions, etc. My passion is meeting people where they are and helping them navigate life.
(229) 658-4947 View (229) 658-4947
Photo of Tracy McNair Knighton, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Tracy McNair Knighton
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Albany, GA 31707
The name of the practice says it all..NOVA - No One Ventures Alone. It is not the events in our lives that shape us. It is our reaction to and the beliefs about those events that shape us. Are you in transition - moving, changing jobs, single parent, recently divorced or widowed? Are you faced with some life challenges and need help to overcome them? Would you like help navigating a new path? If you answered yes, then NOVA Counseling is right for you. How you live today will help to create the life you desire to live tomorrow. Let me walk with you, inspire you and equip you to live your best life!
The name of the practice says it all..NOVA - No One Ventures Alone. It is not the events in our lives that shape us. It is our reaction to and the beliefs about those events that shape us. Are you in transition - moving, changing jobs, single parent, recently divorced or widowed? Are you faced with some life challenges and need help to overcome them? Would you like help navigating a new path? If you answered yes, then NOVA Counseling is right for you. How you live today will help to create the life you desire to live tomorrow. Let me walk with you, inspire you and equip you to live your best life!
(229) 589-8873 View (229) 589-8873

See more therapy options for Lowndes County

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.