Adoption Therapists in Burgettstown, PA

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Online Therapists

Photo of Karla Hinis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
Karla Hinis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Zelienople, PA 16063  (Online Only)
I have experience working in adoption, foster care and juvenile court programs.
I am only conducting virtual sessions with clients in Pennsylvania. I have additional training in prolonged exposure for PTSD and CBT for psychosis. My clinical interests include: Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. I'm affirming of the LGBTQ+ community as well as poly, open and other relationships.
I have experience working in adoption, foster care and juvenile court programs.
I am only conducting virtual sessions with clients in Pennsylvania. I have additional training in prolonged exposure for PTSD and CBT for psychosis. My clinical interests include: Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. I'm affirming of the LGBTQ+ community as well as poly, open and other relationships.
(724) 308-5320 View (724) 308-5320
Photo of Susan M. Fink, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burgettstown, PA
Susan M. Fink
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I enjoy working with individuals and families navigating the challenges of adolescence, adoption, and school issues.
When you want to feel better--about yourself, your relationships, your career--therapy can help. It is my job to listen and to make our time together work for you. A client-focused counseling relationship will help you untangle your issues and take a fresh step forward to feeling better.
I enjoy working with individuals and families navigating the challenges of adolescence, adoption, and school issues.
When you want to feel better--about yourself, your relationships, your career--therapy can help. It is my job to listen and to make our time together work for you. A client-focused counseling relationship will help you untangle your issues and take a fresh step forward to feeling better.
(412) 275-4184 View (412) 275-4184
Photo of Debrah Anne Cohen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burgettstown, PA
Debrah Anne Cohen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHL, MFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221  (Online Only)
Does this describe you? You're a people pleaser, wanting to make everyone happy but yourself. You feel the pain of break-ups and grief very intensely. You are fiercely independent and hate taking help from others. Being placed for adoption can reverberate through all aspects of your life. I help clients grieving the losses associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion. As an adoptee myself, I "get it". I also work with the other sides of the adoption triad: birthparents and adoptive parents.
Does this describe you? You're a people pleaser, wanting to make everyone happy but yourself. You feel the pain of break-ups and grief very intensely. You are fiercely independent and hate taking help from others. Being placed for adoption can reverberate through all aspects of your life. I help clients grieving the losses associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion. As an adoptee myself, I "get it". I also work with the other sides of the adoption triad: birthparents and adoptive parents.
(215) 544-2012 View (215) 544-2012
Photo of Lauren Burling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
Lauren Burling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
I also have expertise supporting individuals and families with family planning including adoption, IUI/IVF, intentional single parenting, and foster care.
I'm so glad that you are here. You may be here to look into therapy for yourself, or for someone that you love. Maybe this is your first time looking for a therapist, or perhaps you've spoken to many therapists in the past. Wherever you're coming from today - just know that therapy is a wonderful gift you can give to yourself at any time in your life. You can't be "too bad" or "too good" to enter therapy. In fact, I am going to invite you to let go of the idea of "good/bad," "right/wrong, "fair/unfair" in our work together.
I also have expertise supporting individuals and families with family planning including adoption, IUI/IVF, intentional single parenting, and foster care.
I'm so glad that you are here. You may be here to look into therapy for yourself, or for someone that you love. Maybe this is your first time looking for a therapist, or perhaps you've spoken to many therapists in the past. Wherever you're coming from today - just know that therapy is a wonderful gift you can give to yourself at any time in your life. You can't be "too bad" or "too good" to enter therapy. In fact, I am going to invite you to let go of the idea of "good/bad," "right/wrong, "fair/unfair" in our work together.
(215) 515-5134 View (215) 515-5134
Photo of Maria Lynn Guido, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
Maria Lynn Guido
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
Waitlist for new clients
Maria has been practicing therapy for 8 years, specializing in family therapy, trauma, and attachment. She has experience in a variety of settings and uses techniques including but not limited to, EMDR, trauma-focused CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy. She also has extensive training on adoption/trauma issues, and how developmental trauma plays a role in maladaptive behaviors.
Maria has been practicing therapy for 8 years, specializing in family therapy, trauma, and attachment. She has experience in a variety of settings and uses techniques including but not limited to, EMDR, trauma-focused CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy. She also has extensive training on adoption/trauma issues, and how developmental trauma plays a role in maladaptive behaviors.
(412) 838-4677 View (412) 838-4677
Photo of Casey Harvilla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burgettstown, PA
Casey Harvilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I have also completed training in Sports Counseling and Adoption Competency.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
I have also completed training in Sports Counseling and Adoption Competency.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
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Photo of The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Are you looking for support in the areas of adoption, foster care, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss, pregnancy decision making, or a related area? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
Are you looking for support in the areas of adoption, foster care, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss, pregnancy decision making, or a related area? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
(412) 214-8895 View (412) 214-8895
Photo of Scanlon Counseling & Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burgettstown, PA
Scanlon Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
Specialties: marital & divorce issues (including co-parenting counseling) Grief related to life changes (including death), as well as relationship issues; Adoption support (group & individual).
"I prefer to think of my patients and myself as fellow travelers, a term that abolishes distinctions between 'them' (the afflicted) and 'us' (the healers). ... We are all in this together, and there is no therapist and no person immune to the inherent tragedies of existence." (Borrowed from Dr. Irvin Yalom). My practice makes possible the important work of self-evolution & growth in part due to my eclectic approach & focus on the unique matters of every individual. My lived experiences have greatly influenced my desire to partner with my fellow travelers as we do our 'work' and to do so intentionally and mindfully.
Specialties: marital & divorce issues (including co-parenting counseling) Grief related to life changes (including death), as well as relationship issues; Adoption support (group & individual).
"I prefer to think of my patients and myself as fellow travelers, a term that abolishes distinctions between 'them' (the afflicted) and 'us' (the healers). ... We are all in this together, and there is no therapist and no person immune to the inherent tragedies of existence." (Borrowed from Dr. Irvin Yalom). My practice makes possible the important work of self-evolution & growth in part due to my eclectic approach & focus on the unique matters of every individual. My lived experiences have greatly influenced my desire to partner with my fellow travelers as we do our 'work' and to do so intentionally and mindfully.
(412) 330-1676 View (412) 330-1676
Photo of Jessica Murray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
Jessica Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murrysville, PA 15668
Waitlist for new clients
I also have significant experience both professionally and personally working with families and children impacted by adoption.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma as well as concerns related to depression, loss and grief, and anxiety. As a clinician, I hold safety as a non-negotiable imperative for the therapy space to be productive. I also encourage my clients to use the safe therapy space to lean into the discomfort required to make the changes that they wish to see in their lives.
I also have significant experience both professionally and personally working with families and children impacted by adoption.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma as well as concerns related to depression, loss and grief, and anxiety. As a clinician, I hold safety as a non-negotiable imperative for the therapy space to be productive. I also encourage my clients to use the safe therapy space to lean into the discomfort required to make the changes that they wish to see in their lives.
(724) 202-0526 View (724) 202-0526
Photo of Rita Lampe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
Rita Lampe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allison Park, PA 15101
Over the past 30 plus years of providing counseling to children/adolescents, adults, couples and families, I have offered a very safe environment for people to begin healing from relationship issues, past traumas, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, etc. I particularly work with individuals going through life transitions, healing from childhood trauma and/or abuse, divorce, adoption and addiction recovery. I utilize various therapeutic interventions, focusing on what is best for each individual. I have training in EMDR and have a trauma informed focus. I integrate mindfulness practices and somatic body work as well.
Over the past 30 plus years of providing counseling to children/adolescents, adults, couples and families, I have offered a very safe environment for people to begin healing from relationship issues, past traumas, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, etc. I particularly work with individuals going through life transitions, healing from childhood trauma and/or abuse, divorce, adoption and addiction recovery. I utilize various therapeutic interventions, focusing on what is best for each individual. I have training in EMDR and have a trauma informed focus. I integrate mindfulness practices and somatic body work as well.
(412) 455-6463 View (412) 455-6463
Photo of Lauryn Kalka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
Lauryn Kalka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
(412) 612-2355 View (412) 612-2355
Photo of Natasha Novikova, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
Natasha Novikova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or marital/family issues? I have a Masters in clinical social work from University of Pittsburgh and can guide you thru the rough transition to find more comfortable balance in your life. In my career I have worked in a variety of settings, such as crisis counseling, community mental health and adoption counseling. I have treated depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD etc in a many populations including LGBT and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. At this time I have a new private practice and am ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Call today to set up an appointment.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or marital/family issues? I have a Masters in clinical social work from University of Pittsburgh and can guide you thru the rough transition to find more comfortable balance in your life. In my career I have worked in a variety of settings, such as crisis counseling, community mental health and adoption counseling. I have treated depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD etc in a many populations including LGBT and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. At this time I have a new private practice and am ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Call today to set up an appointment.
(412) 453-4104 View (412) 453-4104
Photo of Fai 郟 Knudson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Burgettstown, PA
Fai 郟 Knudson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm Fai (/fay/). I believe that our experiences in society aren't one-size-fits-all, nor should our therapy be. I aim to support those impacted by queerphobia, racism, ableism, fatphobia, adoption, and other oppressive systems which contribute to mental health difficulties, poor self-regard, and complex trauma. Together, I hope we can challenge negative core beliefs, deconstruct the experiences that led to their development, and cultivate an authentic, compassionate sense of self.
Hi! I'm Fai (/fay/). I believe that our experiences in society aren't one-size-fits-all, nor should our therapy be. I aim to support those impacted by queerphobia, racism, ableism, fatphobia, adoption, and other oppressive systems which contribute to mental health difficulties, poor self-regard, and complex trauma. Together, I hope we can challenge negative core beliefs, deconstruct the experiences that led to their development, and cultivate an authentic, compassionate sense of self.
(412) 900-9282 View (412) 900-9282
Photo of Erin Donnelly, Psychologist in Burgettstown, PA
Erin Donnelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101  (Online Only)
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
(913) 370-7041 View (913) 370-7041
Photo of Barbara L Sawatis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burgettstown, PA
Barbara L Sawatis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
My experience includes attachment , special needs adoption, addiction & recovery, ACOA/codependency, trauma, women’s issues, and mood disorders.
Have you heard the phrase "If you're going through Hell, keep going”? Sometimes in our darkest moments, we need cheerleaders. We need people who recognize that what we are going through seems unbearable and that the simple act of going forward takes courage. Therapy can be the vehicle to help us move forward. When treatment is non-judgmental, supportive and encouraging, you and your therapist can make an unstoppable team. I believe that people want to be "well," but we just don't know an effective way to achieve it. Together, we can work on identifying your personal path to wellness and improved confidence in your strengths.
My experience includes attachment , special needs adoption, addiction & recovery, ACOA/codependency, trauma, women’s issues, and mood disorders.
Have you heard the phrase "If you're going through Hell, keep going”? Sometimes in our darkest moments, we need cheerleaders. We need people who recognize that what we are going through seems unbearable and that the simple act of going forward takes courage. Therapy can be the vehicle to help us move forward. When treatment is non-judgmental, supportive and encouraging, you and your therapist can make an unstoppable team. I believe that people want to be "well," but we just don't know an effective way to achieve it. Together, we can work on identifying your personal path to wellness and improved confidence in your strengths.
(878) 205-0573 View (878) 205-0573
Photo of The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burgettstown, PA
The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
(412) 307-8865 View (412) 307-8865
Photo of Deb Cole Warnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
Deb Cole Warnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601  (Online Only)
I work with clients identifying and resolving problems with eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, compulsive overeating/binge eating),trauma related issues, anxiety or panic attacks, depression, OCD, relationship issues, low self-esteem, difficulties with mood swings, and in need of coping techiques to deal with stress. I enjoy working with both women and men, adults, college students, adolescents and children. I often work closely with treatment teams professionals, such as medical professionals, nutritionists, and school counselors.. I offer individual & family counseling. My caring and supportive manner is balanced with a challenging and motivating style to help clients successfully meet their treatment goals.
I work with clients identifying and resolving problems with eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, compulsive overeating/binge eating),trauma related issues, anxiety or panic attacks, depression, OCD, relationship issues, low self-esteem, difficulties with mood swings, and in need of coping techiques to deal with stress. I enjoy working with both women and men, adults, college students, adolescents and children. I often work closely with treatment teams professionals, such as medical professionals, nutritionists, and school counselors.. I offer individual & family counseling. My caring and supportive manner is balanced with a challenging and motivating style to help clients successfully meet their treatment goals.
(724) 472-4360 View (724) 472-4360
Photo of Julia Gatti, Psychologist in Burgettstown, PA
Julia Gatti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
I am a licensed psychologist and have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples for over 23 years. I have been in private practice since 1992, and have worked extensively in private, hospital and community mental health settings. My work focuses on helping people who are experiencing Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and physical (body) problems. My specialties include trauma(PTSD, dissociation), abuse (sexual, physical, domestic),anxiety disorders,and body issues (illness, pain, eating disorders, fibromyalgia). I believe all people can become happier and I work with clients to make families healthier places for everyone.
I am a licensed psychologist and have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples for over 23 years. I have been in private practice since 1992, and have worked extensively in private, hospital and community mental health settings. My work focuses on helping people who are experiencing Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and physical (body) problems. My specialties include trauma(PTSD, dissociation), abuse (sexual, physical, domestic),anxiety disorders,and body issues (illness, pain, eating disorders, fibromyalgia). I believe all people can become happier and I work with clients to make families healthier places for everyone.
(724) 498-4939 View (724) 498-4939
Photo of Erin Glasscott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Burgettstown, PA
Erin Glasscott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Are you a young adult dealing primarily with anxiety and life transition issues? This could be a recent college graduate starting their first big job, a major transition. I like walking beside them through these transitions and being an additional support. I also like helping people learn breathing techniques to manage anxiety and learn about polyvagal theory and a bottom-up approach. I enjoy working with clients who can articulate their goals, such as managing anxiety better and working on anxiety in different settings.
Are you a young adult dealing primarily with anxiety and life transition issues? This could be a recent college graduate starting their first big job, a major transition. I like walking beside them through these transitions and being an additional support. I also like helping people learn breathing techniques to manage anxiety and learn about polyvagal theory and a bottom-up approach. I enjoy working with clients who can articulate their goals, such as managing anxiety better and working on anxiety in different settings.
(412) 991-1687 View (412) 991-1687
Photo of Debbie Witchel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Burgettstown, PA
Debbie Witchel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Does the thought of starting a new day seem overwhelming? Do you dread interacting with others due to anxiety/depression? Are you unhappy with/or feel stuck in your relationships? Do you struggle with setting boundaries and people pleasing? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? I listen, I care and I want to help. I can assist you to heal and lead a happier life. I believe in connecting with you as a person, the significance of identifying and releasing unexpressed feelings and changing unhealthy life themes. I am also trained in co-parenting (including court-ordered) for couples experiencing a divorce.
Does the thought of starting a new day seem overwhelming? Do you dread interacting with others due to anxiety/depression? Are you unhappy with/or feel stuck in your relationships? Do you struggle with setting boundaries and people pleasing? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? I listen, I care and I want to help. I can assist you to heal and lead a happier life. I believe in connecting with you as a person, the significance of identifying and releasing unexpressed feelings and changing unhealthy life themes. I am also trained in co-parenting (including court-ordered) for couples experiencing a divorce.
(412) 252-2450 View (412) 252-2450
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.