Adoption Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Balfour Laura - Balfour Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Balfour Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Minneapolis, MN 55410
I have experience in attachment/ adoption and autism in women.
Formerly a ballet director, I became exposed to Eating disorders, nutrition and body issues. But I use gender and race theory in this work. I’m trained and have personal experience in the area of attachment. I have years of professional and personal experience in areas of race and gender intersections. I center the people.
I have experience in attachment/ adoption and autism in women.
Formerly a ballet director, I became exposed to Eating disorders, nutrition and body issues. But I use gender and race theory in this work. I’m trained and have personal experience in the area of attachment. I have years of professional and personal experience in areas of race and gender intersections. I center the people.
(612) 255-9037 View (612) 255-9037
Photo of Nick Pranke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Nick Pranke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Minneapolis, MN 55401
I work with teens and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, adoption/foster care, relationship difficulties, identity concerns and other stressors.
I believe the process of therapy is about the therapist and client joining together in a collaborative effort to work toward goals. Every person has strengths and values that are essential to living their best possible life. Sometimes obstacles get in the way of living those values and recognizing our strengths, including family, trauma, health concerns, and mental health difficulties. Through a systemic and trauma-informed lens, we will create individualized goals and approaches that best meet your needs.
I work with teens and adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, adoption/foster care, relationship difficulties, identity concerns and other stressors.
I believe the process of therapy is about the therapist and client joining together in a collaborative effort to work toward goals. Every person has strengths and values that are essential to living their best possible life. Sometimes obstacles get in the way of living those values and recognizing our strengths, including family, trauma, health concerns, and mental health difficulties. Through a systemic and trauma-informed lens, we will create individualized goals and approaches that best meet your needs.
(763) 343-7399 View (763) 343-7399
Photo of Cameron Lee Small, Counselor, MS, LPCC
Cameron Lee Small
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Online Only
Have you ever wondered about your adoption story?
You want someone who gets it. As a fellow adoptee and licensed therapist, I've dedicated my career to adoptee-specific support. I created the Adoption Literacy framework, authored "The Adoptee's Journey," and train other professionals. You'll gain practical tools for navigating adoption challenges while developing deeper understanding of your unique story.
Have you ever wondered about your adoption story?
You want someone who gets it. As a fellow adoptee and licensed therapist, I've dedicated my career to adoptee-specific support. I created the Adoption Literacy framework, authored "The Adoptee's Journey," and train other professionals. You'll gain practical tools for navigating adoption challenges while developing deeper understanding of your unique story.
(952) 333-4688 View (952) 333-4688
Photo of Alex Rhees, Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
Alex Rhees
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55419
Adoption carries unique emotional complexities, and I believe every adoption story deserves to be heard and honored.
Hi! I'm Alex, and I work with adult adoptees, individuals in recovery from substance use, and those healing from trauma, including childhood trauma and identity-related stress. My clients often feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, and they’re seeking meaningful change and deeper self-understanding. Many are processing complex relationships, grief, or questions about identity. My goal is to offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore what’s distressing you and begin building the life you want.
Adoption carries unique emotional complexities, and I believe every adoption story deserves to be heard and honored.
Hi! I'm Alex, and I work with adult adoptees, individuals in recovery from substance use, and those healing from trauma, including childhood trauma and identity-related stress. My clients often feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck, and they’re seeking meaningful change and deeper self-understanding. Many are processing complex relationships, grief, or questions about identity. My goal is to offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore what’s distressing you and begin building the life you want.
(952) 800-5134 View (952) 800-5134
Photo of Sally Ankerfelt, Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
Sally Ankerfelt
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Adoptive families may face unique challenges that require a supportive professional who has personal and professional knowledge of attachment adaptations, trauma responses, anxiety, grief, and the adoption circle.
As a certified performance coach, I see you and your family as complete and capable while needing support, understanding, and options. Building on your strengths, I help you create strategies, develop unique skills, and establish clear goals so you can calm the chaos, reclaim your family...and yourself.
Adoptive families may face unique challenges that require a supportive professional who has personal and professional knowledge of attachment adaptations, trauma responses, anxiety, grief, and the adoption circle.
As a certified performance coach, I see you and your family as complete and capable while needing support, understanding, and options. Building on your strengths, I help you create strategies, develop unique skills, and establish clear goals so you can calm the chaos, reclaim your family...and yourself.
(612) 284-1622 View (612) 284-1622
Photo of Hye-Kyong Kim - Namu Integrative Therapy Services, LLC, Psychologist
Our providers have experience working with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, marginalization, adoption (domestic, transnational, and transracial), foster care, complex and developmental trauma, grief, self-esteem, identity, spirituality, depression, anxiety, attachment, racial trauma and oppression, and somatic work.
Our providers are integrative in their approaches, including relational and attachment, client-centered, trauma-based (Somatic Experiencing and Brainspotting), culturally focused approaches, and mindfulness and spirituality.
Our providers have experience working with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, marginalization, adoption (domestic, transnational, and transracial), foster care, complex and developmental trauma, grief, self-esteem, identity, spirituality, depression, anxiety, attachment, racial trauma and oppression, and somatic work.
Our providers are integrative in their approaches, including relational and attachment, client-centered, trauma-based (Somatic Experiencing and Brainspotting), culturally focused approaches, and mindfulness and spirituality.
(651) 888-8259 View (651) 888-8259
Photo of Martha Lavin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Martha Lavin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I have a wide range of clinical interests including transracial adoption, trauma, racialized trauma, depression, anxiety, identity issues, self-esteem, grief and loss, brain injury, veterans, sleep hygiene, adults living with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI), and co-occurring disorders.
Greetings! I offer Telehealth sessions and am part of a small practice that is community oriented and dedicated to helping folks using a holistic and decolonized lens. I grew up in the Midwest and continually strive to broaden my perspective and worldviews. My experiences inform my clinical approach which is empathic, person centered and collaborative when partnering with folks on their healing journeys - wherever they may be on that continuum. I typically use a blend of cognitive therapy techniques and somatic based practices. My goal is to help clients live full and meaningful lives that aligns with their values.
I have a wide range of clinical interests including transracial adoption, trauma, racialized trauma, depression, anxiety, identity issues, self-esteem, grief and loss, brain injury, veterans, sleep hygiene, adults living with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI), and co-occurring disorders.
Greetings! I offer Telehealth sessions and am part of a small practice that is community oriented and dedicated to helping folks using a holistic and decolonized lens. I grew up in the Midwest and continually strive to broaden my perspective and worldviews. My experiences inform my clinical approach which is empathic, person centered and collaborative when partnering with folks on their healing journeys - wherever they may be on that continuum. I typically use a blend of cognitive therapy techniques and somatic based practices. My goal is to help clients live full and meaningful lives that aligns with their values.
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Photo of Yaneth Cunningham, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Yaneth Cunningham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My personal journey of Adoption has fueled my passion to provide unconditional and authentic support for families and individuals with warmth & compassion.
I draw upon a strength based, resiliency building & collaborative style of therapy to empower families and individuals to find inner healing while providing tools to enhance their daily life functioning. I specialize in working with children ages 10 and older and love working with individuals & families navigating attachment and adoption related experiences
My personal journey of Adoption has fueled my passion to provide unconditional and authentic support for families and individuals with warmth & compassion.
I draw upon a strength based, resiliency building & collaborative style of therapy to empower families and individuals to find inner healing while providing tools to enhance their daily life functioning. I specialize in working with children ages 10 and older and love working with individuals & families navigating attachment and adoption related experiences
(952) 649-5643 View (952) 649-5643
Photo of Rosilynn Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Rosilynn Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Whether it began with generational trauma, adoption, abuse, or simply never feeling like you truly belonged.
This space isn’t about pretending everything’s fine or pathologizing your pain. It’s about making room for your full self: your story, your culture, your contradictions, your softness, your survival. I bring warmth, compassion, wit, and a sense of humor into the work. I follow your lead, honoring your pace and your process.
Whether it began with generational trauma, adoption, abuse, or simply never feeling like you truly belonged.
This space isn’t about pretending everything’s fine or pathologizing your pain. It’s about making room for your full self: your story, your culture, your contradictions, your softness, your survival. I bring warmth, compassion, wit, and a sense of humor into the work. I follow your lead, honoring your pace and your process.
(612) 712-6594 View (612) 712-6594
Photo of Tarah Groettum - Tarah Groettum At Bears Counseling PLLC (Autism), Counselor, MSEd, LPCC, CAS, PACC, TFCBT
Tarah Groettum At Bears Counseling PLLC (Autism)
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC, CAS, PACC, TFCBT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a vast majority of skill sets; however, autism, groups, kinship care, adoption, and trauma are my specialty focus areas.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, dedication and authenticity. I strive to create a safe, supportive and trusting environment where individuals will feel comfortable, heard and understood; while exploring their thoughts, feelings, and most "raw" aspects of themselves. I meet each individual where they are and walk beside them on their journey to meet their personal goal(s) to ensure they do not feel alone. I believe the individual leads the sessions, determines what they want and need from each session and goal creation. It is a team effort, but one I am here to support and engage others/team if wanted/needed.
I have a vast majority of skill sets; however, autism, groups, kinship care, adoption, and trauma are my specialty focus areas.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, dedication and authenticity. I strive to create a safe, supportive and trusting environment where individuals will feel comfortable, heard and understood; while exploring their thoughts, feelings, and most "raw" aspects of themselves. I meet each individual where they are and walk beside them on their journey to meet their personal goal(s) to ensure they do not feel alone. I believe the individual leads the sessions, determines what they want and need from each session and goal creation. It is a team effort, but one I am here to support and engage others/team if wanted/needed.
(651) 369-7957 View (651) 369-7957
Photo of Kathleen Chara, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, Owner
Kathleen Chara
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, Owner
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We specialize in recovery from life stressors and trauma as well as adoption/foster care related issues.
Please visit my website to see how I might best serve you and your family. I have a Ph.D. in Family Psychology, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota.
We specialize in recovery from life stressors and trauma as well as adoption/foster care related issues.
Please visit my website to see how I might best serve you and your family. I have a Ph.D. in Family Psychology, and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of Minnesota.
(612) 800-8301 View (612) 800-8301
Photo of Michael Kinzer, Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Michael Kinzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults and adolescents, individuals, couples, and families, helping them overcome anxiety, depression, chemical dependency and other addictions, PTSD and trauma (physical and sexual abuse, rape and domestic violence), family and relationship issues, including adoption, divorce, infidelity, anger, parenting, and issues related to the legal system.
My therapy style is engaged and proactive. Clients repeatedly tell me they feel safe and accepted in therapy to explore their issues, whatever they happen to be. I ask questions and make frequent observations to help clients (1) increase self-awareness and become more comfortable with themselves and their feelings, (2) to make better choices, (3) toward greater satisfaction in their lives and relationships. My unique history helps me understand and relate to the many struggles clients face, without judgment. For more information about me and my style of therapy, please visit my website: www.jupitercenter.com.
I work with adults and adolescents, individuals, couples, and families, helping them overcome anxiety, depression, chemical dependency and other addictions, PTSD and trauma (physical and sexual abuse, rape and domestic violence), family and relationship issues, including adoption, divorce, infidelity, anger, parenting, and issues related to the legal system.
My therapy style is engaged and proactive. Clients repeatedly tell me they feel safe and accepted in therapy to explore their issues, whatever they happen to be. I ask questions and make frequent observations to help clients (1) increase self-awareness and become more comfortable with themselves and their feelings, (2) to make better choices, (3) toward greater satisfaction in their lives and relationships. My unique history helps me understand and relate to the many struggles clients face, without judgment. For more information about me and my style of therapy, please visit my website: www.jupitercenter.com.
(612) 234-5976 View (612) 234-5976
Photo of Ashley I Krause, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Ashley I Krause
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I am here to support individuals, the BIPOC community, people looking for support in foster and adoption trauma, identity, self-worth, and feelings of fear of failure.
As an adoptee myself, I bring a culturally affirming and intersectional lens to every session, using structural, experiential, and narrative modalities. I can offer a voice and guide you through anxiety, depression, relationships, and trauma.
I am here to support individuals, the BIPOC community, people looking for support in foster and adoption trauma, identity, self-worth, and feelings of fear of failure.
As an adoptee myself, I bring a culturally affirming and intersectional lens to every session, using structural, experiential, and narrative modalities. I can offer a voice and guide you through anxiety, depression, relationships, and trauma.
(612) 800-8035 View (612) 800-8035
Photo of Laura Chapeau, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LISW
Laura Chapeau
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LISW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additionally, I have significant experience working with individuals in the adoption triad, as well as those considering or in the midst of the adoption process, and following placement transition.
I have a strengths-based perspective and a desire to support clients in reaching their goals and being their best selves. I believe in the ability of clients to grow through the therapeutic process and to come away feeling confident and empowered.
Additionally, I have significant experience working with individuals in the adoption triad, as well as those considering or in the midst of the adoption process, and following placement transition.
I have a strengths-based perspective and a desire to support clients in reaching their goals and being their best selves. I believe in the ability of clients to grow through the therapeutic process and to come away feeling confident and empowered.
(612) 482-1646 View (612) 482-1646
Photo of Kate Goodman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Kate Goodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Waitlist for new clients
College and Emerging Adult transitions, Athletes/Performers, Neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming, Life Transitions, Self-harm, Self-esteem, Cultural-identity, Gender-identity, Attachment, Trauma (personal, generational, historical, religious), Loss & Grief, Adoption, Divorce, Addictions and/or Substance Use
As a therapist, I am committed to being a source of unconditional positive regard, asking hard and important questions, offering observations to identify connections in experiences, exploring and challenging negative self-beliefs, offering tools and skills in the capacity desired, and celebrating the ups and the downs of the process. I believe human growth, change, and healing is most easily found when we allow ourselves the chance to be uncomfortable. I am a Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapy Practitioner and have found it to be an incredible tool for increasing healing with life’s big and small difficulties.
College and Emerging Adult transitions, Athletes/Performers, Neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC affirming, Life Transitions, Self-harm, Self-esteem, Cultural-identity, Gender-identity, Attachment, Trauma (personal, generational, historical, religious), Loss & Grief, Adoption, Divorce, Addictions and/or Substance Use
As a therapist, I am committed to being a source of unconditional positive regard, asking hard and important questions, offering observations to identify connections in experiences, exploring and challenging negative self-beliefs, offering tools and skills in the capacity desired, and celebrating the ups and the downs of the process. I believe human growth, change, and healing is most easily found when we allow ourselves the chance to be uncomfortable. I am a Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapy Practitioner and have found it to be an incredible tool for increasing healing with life’s big and small difficulties.
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Photo of Connie G. Palacio, Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT, LICSW
Connie G. Palacio
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT, LICSW
Minneapolis, MN 55439
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, sexual health and sexuality, couple problems, intimacy problems, trauma, domestic abuse, divorce and separation, parenting problems, attachment, adoption and foster care, grief and loss, immigration issues, posttrauma, and domestic abuse.
Helping those experiencing personal, emotional, relationship, family, traumatic experiences or psychological struggles. Therapy is a journey of growth and self discovery. Let's embark on that life journey together. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. As you get ready to start this journey, I will be there to support and empower you. My counseling style is warm, patient, kind and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, sexual health and sexuality, couple problems, intimacy problems, trauma, domestic abuse, divorce and separation, parenting problems, attachment, adoption and foster care, grief and loss, immigration issues, posttrauma, and domestic abuse.
Helping those experiencing personal, emotional, relationship, family, traumatic experiences or psychological struggles. Therapy is a journey of growth and self discovery. Let's embark on that life journey together. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. As you get ready to start this journey, I will be there to support and empower you. My counseling style is warm, patient, kind and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels.
(612) 662-6560 View (612) 662-6560
Photo of Abby J. Schnedler, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Abby J. Schnedler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My therapeutic interests are general but I am well versed in working with clients experiencing stress/overwhelm, depression, adoption issues, anxiety, challenging relationships, family of origin issues, boundary issues, and constraints stemming from institutional and systemic racism and discrimination.
Hello! Let’s talk about healing…what are we struggling with that is our responsibility to heal and what might we be carrying that was passed onto us? Giving yourself the grace and compassion to heal is one way to change the dynamics of our interactions with others as well as our relationship with ourselves. Holding space for people to explore the impact of mental health on their own life is the central focus of my work. I am a relational therapist and feel that it is most important to establish a sense of trust and empathy with clients in order for therapeutic growth to occur.
My therapeutic interests are general but I am well versed in working with clients experiencing stress/overwhelm, depression, adoption issues, anxiety, challenging relationships, family of origin issues, boundary issues, and constraints stemming from institutional and systemic racism and discrimination.
Hello! Let’s talk about healing…what are we struggling with that is our responsibility to heal and what might we be carrying that was passed onto us? Giving yourself the grace and compassion to heal is one way to change the dynamics of our interactions with others as well as our relationship with ourselves. Holding space for people to explore the impact of mental health on their own life is the central focus of my work. I am a relational therapist and feel that it is most important to establish a sense of trust and empathy with clients in order for therapeutic growth to occur.
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Photo of Janet Uri-Jones, Psychologist, MA LP
Janet Uri-Jones
Psychologist, MA LP
Online Only
I’ve had many years of experience with LGBT+, parenting, adoption, divorce, and medical illness.
Many people are finding life more difficult these days. There is often so much to deal with in our personal lives, add the impact of world events and it can all just be too much. Having someone to listen and support you can make a big difference in coping with your struggles and not feeling alone. I’ve never met anyone that doesn’t like being listened to and understood. My focus in therapy is to help you get relief from your pain and explore ways to cope with life’s ongoing challenges.
I’ve had many years of experience with LGBT+, parenting, adoption, divorce, and medical illness.
Many people are finding life more difficult these days. There is often so much to deal with in our personal lives, add the impact of world events and it can all just be too much. Having someone to listen and support you can make a big difference in coping with your struggles and not feeling alone. I’ve never met anyone that doesn’t like being listened to and understood. My focus in therapy is to help you get relief from your pain and explore ways to cope with life’s ongoing challenges.
(952) 243-3143 View (952) 243-3143
Photo of Owen Konecnik - W. Owen Konecnik, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
W. Owen Konecnik, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have expertise and special interest in chronic pain/health conditions, stress/anxiety, depression, LGBTIQA+ concerns, OCD, grief/loss, adoption and parenting issues, and trauma-informed care.
Whatever you are struggling with, you deserve the support you need to feel better. Therapy is a way for you to find the answers and path forward that are right for you. I genuinely believe that you have all the strength and insight you need within yourself to heal and grow. That's the perspective I've relied on to help people reach their goals and improve their health and wellbeing for over 20 years.
I have expertise and special interest in chronic pain/health conditions, stress/anxiety, depression, LGBTIQA+ concerns, OCD, grief/loss, adoption and parenting issues, and trauma-informed care.
Whatever you are struggling with, you deserve the support you need to feel better. Therapy is a way for you to find the answers and path forward that are right for you. I genuinely believe that you have all the strength and insight you need within yourself to heal and grow. That's the perspective I've relied on to help people reach their goals and improve their health and wellbeing for over 20 years.
(720) 806-9042 View (720) 806-9042
Photo of Tanesha Saxon, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Tanesha Saxon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
 TaNesha's extensive experience comes from working with individuals in crisis, cumulative trauma, foster care, foster/adoptive parents, blended families, issues with dysregulation, dual diagnosis (SPMI’s), attachment, parenting, and adoption issues.
TaNesha has been providing therapeutic services for the Twin Cities area for children, adolescents and families for the last sixteen years. She has worked specifically with disenfranchised minority communities and has taken extensive multicultural training to support her work. As an African American female, TaNesha serves as both knowledgeable and an in-demand resource in that specific population. Using a holistic approach to therapy with a framework centered on reality(choice) based therapy, TaNesha looks at all aspects of a person’s life in order to help them identify areas of change.
 TaNesha's extensive experience comes from working with individuals in crisis, cumulative trauma, foster care, foster/adoptive parents, blended families, issues with dysregulation, dual diagnosis (SPMI’s), attachment, parenting, and adoption issues.
TaNesha has been providing therapeutic services for the Twin Cities area for children, adolescents and families for the last sixteen years. She has worked specifically with disenfranchised minority communities and has taken extensive multicultural training to support her work. As an African American female, TaNesha serves as both knowledgeable and an in-demand resource in that specific population. Using a holistic approach to therapy with a framework centered on reality(choice) based therapy, TaNesha looks at all aspects of a person’s life in order to help them identify areas of change.
(651) 299-6476 View (651) 299-6476

See more therapy options for Minneapolis

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.