Adoption Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Hannah Elizabeth O'Rear, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA, ATR-P
Hannah Elizabeth O'Rear
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA, ATR-P
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
My special interests include trauma work, depression, anxiety, adoption, LGBTQIA+ populations.
I offer talk therapy services as well as art therapy. I am passionate about both modalities and welcome any one who is curious about self expression through art. I pull from several approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, attachment theory, and enjoy practicing mindfulness techniques.
My special interests include trauma work, depression, anxiety, adoption, LGBTQIA+ populations.
I offer talk therapy services as well as art therapy. I am passionate about both modalities and welcome any one who is curious about self expression through art. I pull from several approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, attachment theory, and enjoy practicing mindfulness techniques.
(463) 292-2898 View (463) 292-2898
Photo of Danelle King - Danelle King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Danelle King, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Outside of my work as a therapist, I am married and have a large, wonderful family with nine children, including three who joined our family through adoption from foster care.
I am Danelle King, MSW, LCSW. With 29 years experience I am dedicated to using my natural gifts of nurturing and support to provide therapy. I emphasize the importance of honesty and offer non-judgmental input. I create a safe space for my clients to open up without fear of criticism, and I'm straightforward in my approach, offering genuine feedback and guidance that is personalized to your unique circumstance. I am prepared to address problematic behaviors, traumatic events, and specific mental health diagnoses.
Outside of my work as a therapist, I am married and have a large, wonderful family with nine children, including three who joined our family through adoption from foster care.
I am Danelle King, MSW, LCSW. With 29 years experience I am dedicated to using my natural gifts of nurturing and support to provide therapy. I emphasize the importance of honesty and offer non-judgmental input. I create a safe space for my clients to open up without fear of criticism, and I'm straightforward in my approach, offering genuine feedback and guidance that is personalized to your unique circumstance. I am prepared to address problematic behaviors, traumatic events, and specific mental health diagnoses.
(765) 345-8282 View (765) 345-8282
Photo of Maureen L McCrae, Counselor, MA, LMHC, ACS
Maureen L McCrae
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ACS
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46227
I specialize in working with children and adults of domestic and international adoption.
Therapy is an individualized process that requires trust to be established between therapist and client for the greatest amount of efficacy. If you are struggling with issues of stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, difficult transitions in your life, I would like to help you explore ways to manage these changes; to achieve a greater sense of balance, wholeness and integration in your life.
I specialize in working with children and adults of domestic and international adoption.
Therapy is an individualized process that requires trust to be established between therapist and client for the greatest amount of efficacy. If you are struggling with issues of stress, depression, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, difficult transitions in your life, I would like to help you explore ways to manage these changes; to achieve a greater sense of balance, wholeness and integration in your life.
(317) 474-6873 View (317) 474-6873
Photo of Kate Tucker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Kate Tucker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I specialize in working with trauma, adoption, foster care, and parenting.
My decision to become a therapist is rooted in my lifelong desire to help children develop and strengthen their coping skills so they’re able to improve their relationships and mental health today, and so they’ll become healthy adults down the road. I have a particular love for working with young people because I view them as remarkable. Seeing their creativity, insight, resilience, humor, curiosity, awe, and capacity for growth is a never-ending source of amazement for her. My goal is to help your child get to the heart of what’s keeping them from enjoying the life they want, and giving practical steps to move forward.
I specialize in working with trauma, adoption, foster care, and parenting.
My decision to become a therapist is rooted in my lifelong desire to help children develop and strengthen their coping skills so they’re able to improve their relationships and mental health today, and so they’ll become healthy adults down the road. I have a particular love for working with young people because I view them as remarkable. Seeing their creativity, insight, resilience, humor, curiosity, awe, and capacity for growth is a never-ending source of amazement for her. My goal is to help your child get to the heart of what’s keeping them from enjoying the life they want, and giving practical steps to move forward.
(463) 227-0187 View (463) 227-0187
Photo of Allison Adams, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Allison Adams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Indianapolis, IN 46227
I am passionate about working with survivors of sexual trauma, religious and spiritual concerns, and foster care/ adoption systems.
Does it feel like all you are doing is doggy paddling in the ocean, trying to keep your head above water? It feels like relationships are anchoring you down, and life events are giant waves pushing you under. Reaching out for help can feel scary. I hope to help you learn to surf the waves, implement coping skills, and feel in control of your life. Through therapy, you can learn to process and embrace your past and look forward to your future. I hope you can learn about yourself and start loving and accepting all parts of you. I am committed to providing affirming care and honoring those who come from marginalized identities.
I am passionate about working with survivors of sexual trauma, religious and spiritual concerns, and foster care/ adoption systems.
Does it feel like all you are doing is doggy paddling in the ocean, trying to keep your head above water? It feels like relationships are anchoring you down, and life events are giant waves pushing you under. Reaching out for help can feel scary. I hope to help you learn to surf the waves, implement coping skills, and feel in control of your life. Through therapy, you can learn to process and embrace your past and look forward to your future. I hope you can learn about yourself and start loving and accepting all parts of you. I am committed to providing affirming care and honoring those who come from marginalized identities.
(317) 743-3521 View (317) 743-3521
O'Brien Psychological Services, Inc
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Indianapolis, IN 46203
His assessment clients have included, but are not limited to, the following: psychiatric hospitals, bariatric surgery patients, international adoption clients, juvenile courts, medical practices, autism treatment centers, other mental health professionals, and various state and federal agencies.
Since entering private practice, Dr. O'Brien has conducted well over 10,000 psychological evaluations. Clients come for help for a variety of reasons, including (but not limited to) the following: Autism Evaluations, ADHD Evaluations, Academically Gifted Child Assessment, Academic Testing for Accommodations, Learning Disability Evaluations, Developmental Delay Assessment, International Adoption Interviews, Memory Testing Personality Testing, Psychological Evaluations for Bariatric Surgery Candidates, Vocational Placement Testing / Career Change.
His assessment clients have included, but are not limited to, the following: psychiatric hospitals, bariatric surgery patients, international adoption clients, juvenile courts, medical practices, autism treatment centers, other mental health professionals, and various state and federal agencies.
Since entering private practice, Dr. O'Brien has conducted well over 10,000 psychological evaluations. Clients come for help for a variety of reasons, including (but not limited to) the following: Autism Evaluations, ADHD Evaluations, Academically Gifted Child Assessment, Academic Testing for Accommodations, Learning Disability Evaluations, Developmental Delay Assessment, International Adoption Interviews, Memory Testing Personality Testing, Psychological Evaluations for Bariatric Surgery Candidates, Vocational Placement Testing / Career Change.
(317) 659-8114 View (317) 659-8114
Photo of Katie Isch Wilson, Licensed Mental Health Associate, MA
Katie Isch Wilson
Licensed Mental Health Associate, MA
Online Only
My therapeutic focus includes spirituality, grief, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, racially related hurts, and adoption issues.
I am passionate about helping people better understand themselves and their loved ones as they seek healing and wholeness. I offer a safe space for people to explore their stories, make meaningful connections, and move forward in hope. I use various therapeutic modalities to help them navigate their journey. I focus not on labels but rather on one’s unique needs.
My therapeutic focus includes spirituality, grief, anxiety, depression, parenting issues, racially related hurts, and adoption issues.
I am passionate about helping people better understand themselves and their loved ones as they seek healing and wholeness. I offer a safe space for people to explore their stories, make meaningful connections, and move forward in hope. I use various therapeutic modalities to help them navigate their journey. I focus not on labels but rather on one’s unique needs.
(463) 270-7558 View (463) 270-7558
Photo of Kelly Bennett, Counselor, MA, LMHC, LAC
Kelly Bennett
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LAC
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I assist families going through the experiences of infertility, miscarriages, stillbirths, infant loss, adoption, and postpartum concerns.
I assist children, adults, couples, and families in addressing the concerns that may be holding them back from the life they want. It is a fact that if our needs are not being met then we don't function well at home, school, work, or socially. I empower clients to meet their needs in healthy ways to live more fulfilling lives.
I assist families going through the experiences of infertility, miscarriages, stillbirths, infant loss, adoption, and postpartum concerns.
I assist children, adults, couples, and families in addressing the concerns that may be holding them back from the life they want. It is a fact that if our needs are not being met then we don't function well at home, school, work, or socially. I empower clients to meet their needs in healthy ways to live more fulfilling lives.
(317) 214-8269 View (317) 214-8269
Photo of Denise A. Senter, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Denise A. Senter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Waitlist for new clients
"I have more than 25 years experience in the areas of: mood disorders, youth behavioral problems; marital difficulty; premarital counseling; trauma and abuse; adoption issues; attachment difficulties in children and adults; sports/athlete skills training and motivation; cultural diversity and inclusion consultation; pastoral support to clergy, ministers and church leaders
"I am a trusted and compassionate professional who enjoys helping others to be creative in resolving complex issues. Regarded as a specialist in mental health and consultation, I provide brief, solution-focused therapy and psycho-dynamic work. I also provide consultation, training, and workshops for staff, agencies and groups. As a former mental health consultant with the NFL, I am very effective in helping clients, athletes and coaches to attain desired goals and success. From clients with chronic illnesses to clients seeking to explore spirituality and faith - I work to help increase a sense of purpose, effectiveness, calm and wellness."
"I have more than 25 years experience in the areas of: mood disorders, youth behavioral problems; marital difficulty; premarital counseling; trauma and abuse; adoption issues; attachment difficulties in children and adults; sports/athlete skills training and motivation; cultural diversity and inclusion consultation; pastoral support to clergy, ministers and church leaders
"I am a trusted and compassionate professional who enjoys helping others to be creative in resolving complex issues. Regarded as a specialist in mental health and consultation, I provide brief, solution-focused therapy and psycho-dynamic work. I also provide consultation, training, and workshops for staff, agencies and groups. As a former mental health consultant with the NFL, I am very effective in helping clients, athletes and coaches to attain desired goals and success. From clients with chronic illnesses to clients seeking to explore spirituality and faith - I work to help increase a sense of purpose, effectiveness, calm and wellness."
(317) 401-5426 View (317) 401-5426
Photo of Lydia Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lydia Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Indianapolis, IN 46201
I use an integrated therapy model with my specialties including attachment, trauma, adoption & foster care, substance abuse, supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and suicide loss survivors.
I help adolescent and young adults, particularly those within in the LGBTQ+ community, who are struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness/rejection, identity and trauma related symptoms. Throughout our time together, you will feel heard, supported and connected so that you can create a meaningful life.
I use an integrated therapy model with my specialties including attachment, trauma, adoption & foster care, substance abuse, supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and suicide loss survivors.
I help adolescent and young adults, particularly those within in the LGBTQ+ community, who are struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness/rejection, identity and trauma related symptoms. Throughout our time together, you will feel heard, supported and connected so that you can create a meaningful life.
(317) 671-8825 View (317) 671-8825
Photo of Angela Hardy, Counselor, MS, LMHC, PC
Angela Hardy
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PC
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I also excel at helping families through life transitions, divorce/coparenting therapy, attachment/ adoption, reunification work, managing high conflict & court involvement.
Life surprises us sometimes… In those moments it is helpful to have someone to come alongside us to provide genuine presence, professionalism and expertise, balanced with compassion, to help through times of transition, trauma or growth. I am passionate about offering encouragement, steps for healing and coping, insight, psychoeducation and interpretation when families are struggling to understand one another. Learning how to navigate life’s courses with sensitivity, kindness and realistic perspective can be more easily undertaken in a therapeutic forum that is accepting and direct. Office, teletherapy, walk/talk or home based.
I also excel at helping families through life transitions, divorce/coparenting therapy, attachment/ adoption, reunification work, managing high conflict & court involvement.
Life surprises us sometimes… In those moments it is helpful to have someone to come alongside us to provide genuine presence, professionalism and expertise, balanced with compassion, to help through times of transition, trauma or growth. I am passionate about offering encouragement, steps for healing and coping, insight, psychoeducation and interpretation when families are struggling to understand one another. Learning how to navigate life’s courses with sensitivity, kindness and realistic perspective can be more easily undertaken in a therapeutic forum that is accepting and direct. Office, teletherapy, walk/talk or home based.
(765) 347-9720 View (765) 347-9720
Photo of Cortnie Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Cortnie Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Indianapolis, IN 46204
My clinical expertise in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma/abuse, foster care/ adoption, and parenting issues.
Life is a journey best told by the author. My story has been authored under the title therapist, wife, mom, daughter, volunteer, and even a Girl Scout leader. All those titles have given me life experiences that have helped craft a pretty amazing story. My goal as your therapist is to help you through your journey so far. Are you happy with how it is going? Have there been twists or turns that you wish you avoided? I can help you discover where you have been, how you got here, and we can work together to create goals to direct your journey where you want it to go.
My clinical expertise in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma/abuse, foster care/ adoption, and parenting issues.
Life is a journey best told by the author. My story has been authored under the title therapist, wife, mom, daughter, volunteer, and even a Girl Scout leader. All those titles have given me life experiences that have helped craft a pretty amazing story. My goal as your therapist is to help you through your journey so far. Are you happy with how it is going? Have there been twists or turns that you wish you avoided? I can help you discover where you have been, how you got here, and we can work together to create goals to direct your journey where you want it to go.
(812) 432-2767 View (812) 432-2767
Photo of Laurel Hicks - Laurel Hicks, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC
Laurel Hicks, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I offer several specialities: grief work with adolescents and adults, anxiety reduction, adoption/fertility issues, anger management, court-ordered treatment, transitioning to life after divorce, self-esteem/confidence struggles, Aviation professionals assessments, troubled teens, depression, anxiety/panic, addictions, LGTBQ issues and workplace issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18+ years of experience working with survivors of abuse, war veterans, adults of all ages and adolescents. I strive to provide exceptional services to my clients through utilizing a holistic approach of understanding an individual's needs. The services I provide are tailored to the needs of each client with the goal of using the most comfortable approach possible. If you are interested in improving your interpersonal relationships, work/academic performance, seeking solutions to specific problems or improving coping skills, please visit email or call.
I offer several specialities: grief work with adolescents and adults, anxiety reduction, adoption/fertility issues, anger management, court-ordered treatment, transitioning to life after divorce, self-esteem/confidence struggles, Aviation professionals assessments, troubled teens, depression, anxiety/panic, addictions, LGTBQ issues and workplace issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 18+ years of experience working with survivors of abuse, war veterans, adults of all ages and adolescents. I strive to provide exceptional services to my clients through utilizing a holistic approach of understanding an individual's needs. The services I provide are tailored to the needs of each client with the goal of using the most comfortable approach possible. If you are interested in improving your interpersonal relationships, work/academic performance, seeking solutions to specific problems or improving coping skills, please visit email or call.
(317) 494-7531 View (317) 494-7531
Photo of Amanda Jo Gonzalez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Jo Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I have experience and knowledge related to birth-mothers and adoption.
Hi. My name is Amanda Jo! I'm honored you've taken the opportunity to read a little bit about me in order to determine if we might be a good fit to walk a part of life's journey together! I have over ten years of experience working in the field of mental health. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Saint Leo University and obtained my Masters in Social Work from Indiana University. I served in the United States Army and am acutely aware of the mental health and family issues specifically related to deployments as well as pre and post service.
I have experience and knowledge related to birth-mothers and adoption.
Hi. My name is Amanda Jo! I'm honored you've taken the opportunity to read a little bit about me in order to determine if we might be a good fit to walk a part of life's journey together! I have over ten years of experience working in the field of mental health. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology at Saint Leo University and obtained my Masters in Social Work from Indiana University. I served in the United States Army and am acutely aware of the mental health and family issues specifically related to deployments as well as pre and post service.
(260) 250-9748 View (260) 250-9748
Photo of Carol L Hornbeck, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Carol L Hornbeck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience with LGBTQ issues, child development, adoption, sexual abuse, parenting challenges, divorce, suicide, and life transitions.
I believe that all of us have within us the resources we need to heal from past hurts and to build and maintain healthy relationships. I work with my clients to identify strengths and goals, and develop new skills to manage life's challenges.
I have extensive experience with LGBTQ issues, child development, adoption, sexual abuse, parenting challenges, divorce, suicide, and life transitions.
I believe that all of us have within us the resources we need to heal from past hurts and to build and maintain healthy relationships. I work with my clients to identify strengths and goals, and develop new skills to manage life's challenges.
(612) 444-7232 View (612) 444-7232
Photo of Jennifer S Landis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, TF-CBT
Jennifer S Landis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, TF-CBT
Online Only
My experience has been in working with people of all ages, special knowledge of CPS, Juvenile Probation, foster care, and adoption topics.
I believe we can all benefit from having an objective, caring person who takes time to really listen. Whether you are thinking of therapy for self-care, reaching life goals, or just trying to figure things out, let's talk. I enjoy what I do and enjoy hearing people's stories.
My experience has been in working with people of all ages, special knowledge of CPS, Juvenile Probation, foster care, and adoption topics.
I believe we can all benefit from having an objective, caring person who takes time to really listen. Whether you are thinking of therapy for self-care, reaching life goals, or just trying to figure things out, let's talk. I enjoy what I do and enjoy hearing people's stories.
(765) 530-6456 View (765) 530-6456
Photo of Sarah Craft, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Sarah Craft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have worked with a variety of different mental health issues over the past 20 years including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar d/o, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Substance Abuse, Physical Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Sexual Abuse, End of Life, Grief, Foster Care, Adoption, Relationship Issues, Work related issues, Anger Management and Chronic Illness (Crohn's disease, Cancer, CKD, Diabetes, etc
You can expect a safe place to be your authentic self. You can say what you need to say and feel how you need to feel without fear of judgment. As your therapist, I will be fully engaged in your treatment. I will provide active listening, work with you on identifying destructive thought patterns and teach you how to change the narrative. You will be heard. You will be validated. You will learn how to respond to stressful situations without looking back in regret for what you said or did.
I have worked with a variety of different mental health issues over the past 20 years including: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar d/o, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Substance Abuse, Physical Abuse, Emotional Abuse, Sexual Abuse, End of Life, Grief, Foster Care, Adoption, Relationship Issues, Work related issues, Anger Management and Chronic Illness (Crohn's disease, Cancer, CKD, Diabetes, etc
You can expect a safe place to be your authentic self. You can say what you need to say and feel how you need to feel without fear of judgment. As your therapist, I will be fully engaged in your treatment. I will provide active listening, work with you on identifying destructive thought patterns and teach you how to change the narrative. You will be heard. You will be validated. You will learn how to respond to stressful situations without looking back in regret for what you said or did.
(813) 680-5098 View (813) 680-5098
Photo of Alecia Brantingham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Alecia Brantingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Strengthening Families, LLC is a group private practice that focuses on the family system, specifically how it is impacted by adoption, trauma and attachment issues.
Experience and ongoing consultation and training about attachment and adoption issues along with how trauma affects relationships has continued to equip our practice to offer services that help families address the many issues that come with parenting children who have experienced trauma through many different situations in their lives.
Strengthening Families, LLC is a group private practice that focuses on the family system, specifically how it is impacted by adoption, trauma and attachment issues.
Experience and ongoing consultation and training about attachment and adoption issues along with how trauma affects relationships has continued to equip our practice to offer services that help families address the many issues that come with parenting children who have experienced trauma through many different situations in their lives.
(463) 273-3426 View (463) 273-3426
Photo of Misty Parks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Misty Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Indiana. I received my Masters form Indiana University in 2006 and have been practicing since then, but was involved in social work type work 5 years prior to obtaining my Masters. I am a trauma certified specialist. I have worked with all ages, from birth to older adults; including those in foster care, foster parents, adoptive parents, adoptive children, and parents involved with the Department of Child Services. I have helped all ages overcome barriers to their mental health and develop coping strategies for everyday life. I have helped families build stronger relation
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Indiana. I received my Masters form Indiana University in 2006 and have been practicing since then, but was involved in social work type work 5 years prior to obtaining my Masters. I am a trauma certified specialist. I have worked with all ages, from birth to older adults; including those in foster care, foster parents, adoptive parents, adoptive children, and parents involved with the Department of Child Services. I have helped all ages overcome barriers to their mental health and develop coping strategies for everyday life. I have helped families build stronger relation
(317) 779-2744 View (317) 779-2744
Photo of Teresa Adams - We Are Relationships, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC, NCC
We Are Relationships
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC, NCC
Online Only
Love Is War. Gear Up! We are a different kind of professional mental health clinic, allowing you to connect with a licensed therapist, trained to offer help from a Christian background. By combining Biblical wisdom with clinical expertise in mental health, we invite God into the conversation and formulate actionable plans that best address the unique challenges you face. Our goal is to holistically improve clients’ well-being, so that they may feel mentally, emotionally, and spiritually healthy. In order to provide the best experience possible, our unique approach offers both online services and traditional face-to-face therapy.
Love Is War. Gear Up! We are a different kind of professional mental health clinic, allowing you to connect with a licensed therapist, trained to offer help from a Christian background. By combining Biblical wisdom with clinical expertise in mental health, we invite God into the conversation and formulate actionable plans that best address the unique challenges you face. Our goal is to holistically improve clients’ well-being, so that they may feel mentally, emotionally, and spiritually healthy. In order to provide the best experience possible, our unique approach offers both online services and traditional face-to-face therapy.
(630) 426-7511 View (630) 426-7511

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

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.