Photo of Perry Huff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Perry Huff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63112  (Online Only)
I've worked extensively with adolescents in foster care and adoption.
Hi, my name is Perry, and my approach to therapy involves helping clients to: gain new perspectives, relate differently to their identified problems, and discover more in their stories. I encourage my clients to challenge, explore and reimagine the narratives that they have formed or were formed about themselves. I apply several counseling techniques to therapy like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and more. Ultimately, I aim to provide support and practical feedback to my clients as they embark on the path towards self-love, gratitude, belonging, and healing.
I've worked extensively with adolescents in foster care and adoption.
Hi, my name is Perry, and my approach to therapy involves helping clients to: gain new perspectives, relate differently to their identified problems, and discover more in their stories. I encourage my clients to challenge, explore and reimagine the narratives that they have formed or were formed about themselves. I apply several counseling techniques to therapy like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and more. Ultimately, I aim to provide support and practical feedback to my clients as they embark on the path towards self-love, gratitude, belonging, and healing.
(561) 448-6209 View (561) 448-6209
Photo of Melissa T Scolaro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Melissa T Scolaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
(314) 828-1020 View (314) 828-1020
Photo of Juliana Varela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Juliana Varela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
People seek therapy for variety of reasons, ranging from difficulties with a specific life event or a general pursuit for greater purpose and connectedness. Psychotherapy offers an arena for self exploration unlike any other and can prove to be a profoundly moving experience. I work with individuals affected by trauma, difficulties in relationships, depression/post-partum depression, infertility, adoption, parenting, struggles in cultural adaptation and immigration, identity, self-esteem, sexuality, etc. Often I find that the most meaningful change comes from those who are open and willing to engage in the journey. The change you seek comes from you and will be our guiding force.
People seek therapy for variety of reasons, ranging from difficulties with a specific life event or a general pursuit for greater purpose and connectedness. Psychotherapy offers an arena for self exploration unlike any other and can prove to be a profoundly moving experience. I work with individuals affected by trauma, difficulties in relationships, depression/post-partum depression, infertility, adoption, parenting, struggles in cultural adaptation and immigration, identity, self-esteem, sexuality, etc. Often I find that the most meaningful change comes from those who are open and willing to engage in the journey. The change you seek comes from you and will be our guiding force.
(314) 591-5187 View (314) 591-5187
Photo of Debra H Zand, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Debra H Zand
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127
Dr. Debra Zand, founder and co-owner of Midwest Psychological Services LLC, is a clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience working with children and their families. She has particular expertise in conducting comprehensive psychological testing, as well as individual and family therapies. Dr. Zand uses an integrative, playful approach to conducting therapy She routinely see families to address: adoption issues, attachment, developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, parent-child relationship struggles, self-regulation difficulties, communication struggles, divorce, and remarriage.
Dr. Debra Zand, founder and co-owner of Midwest Psychological Services LLC, is a clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience working with children and their families. She has particular expertise in conducting comprehensive psychological testing, as well as individual and family therapies. Dr. Zand uses an integrative, playful approach to conducting therapy She routinely see families to address: adoption issues, attachment, developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, parent-child relationship struggles, self-regulation difficulties, communication struggles, divorce, and remarriage.
(314) 858-8067 View (314) 858-8067
Photo of Audra Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Audra Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
I have special interest in infertility, adoption, and autism/Asperger’s Syndrome.
My name is Audra Bell and I am a Psychotherapist certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with clients throughout Missouri via telehealth. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, or other life stressors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Theory. I find it most helpful to start where the client feels comfortable and work right away towards helping clients find progress and relief quickly.
I have special interest in infertility, adoption, and autism/Asperger’s Syndrome.
My name is Audra Bell and I am a Psychotherapist certified as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I work with clients throughout Missouri via telehealth. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, or other life stressors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Systems Theory. I find it most helpful to start where the client feels comfortable and work right away towards helping clients find progress and relief quickly.
(636) 303-1667 View (636) 303-1667
Photo of Chester Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Chester Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63106
With over 30 years in practice I have experience working with people of all ages with a range of concerns. People come to me to learn more about themselves and the source of their symptoms. It is through better understanding that we are able to heal and grow. My work with children/adolescents includes those dealing anxiety, adoption issues, depression, family issues, and behavioral problems. My work with adults includes those challenged with anxiety, depression, loss/grief, and relationship issues, and chronic medical conditions.
With over 30 years in practice I have experience working with people of all ages with a range of concerns. People come to me to learn more about themselves and the source of their symptoms. It is through better understanding that we are able to heal and grow. My work with children/adolescents includes those dealing anxiety, adoption issues, depression, family issues, and behavioral problems. My work with adults includes those challenged with anxiety, depression, loss/grief, and relationship issues, and chronic medical conditions.
(314) 207-8599 View (314) 207-8599
Photo of Aya B Kawasaki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Aya B Kawasaki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LLM
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63109
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
(314) 932-2368 View (314) 932-2368
Photo of Desley Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Desley Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63104
I am extremely passionate about helping those in need and feel it is an honor to be a part of someone's journey through therapy. I truly enjoy supporting others in finding and becoming the very best version of themselves. I think it is important that my clients feel heard and understood and I strive to create a therapeutic environment where my clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. I have spent the majority of my career working with children, youth, adults, and families in various capacities. I have a strong background in trauma, family dynamics, child development, foster care, adoption, and mental health of all ages.
I am extremely passionate about helping those in need and feel it is an honor to be a part of someone's journey through therapy. I truly enjoy supporting others in finding and becoming the very best version of themselves. I think it is important that my clients feel heard and understood and I strive to create a therapeutic environment where my clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. I have spent the majority of my career working with children, youth, adults, and families in various capacities. I have a strong background in trauma, family dynamics, child development, foster care, adoption, and mental health of all ages.
(314) 907-3710 View (314) 907-3710
Photo of Josh Dix, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Louis, MO
Josh Dix
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Whether its depression, anxiety, infertility, adoption, trauma, relationships or career problems, I help clients explore the schemas and attachment patterns they've developed over time.
I work with people from all walks of life...different cultural identities, ages, backgrounds and things they want to talk about. Some clients aren't sure of what's wrong and just need to explore. That's great! Others know exactly what's wrong, but just aren't sure what to do about it. And some of us know what we need to do, we just need the help to take those steps. We all enter this process at different places. There's no wrong place to be.
Whether its depression, anxiety, infertility, adoption, trauma, relationships or career problems, I help clients explore the schemas and attachment patterns they've developed over time.
I work with people from all walks of life...different cultural identities, ages, backgrounds and things they want to talk about. Some clients aren't sure of what's wrong and just need to explore. That's great! Others know exactly what's wrong, but just aren't sure what to do about it. And some of us know what we need to do, we just need the help to take those steps. We all enter this process at different places. There's no wrong place to be.
(636) 275-0986 View (636) 275-0986
Photo of Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
We have experience helping with: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss, Behavioral Problems, Separation & Divorce, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Family Disruption and Foster Care/Adoption, Self-Harm, and much more.
We know how hard it is to ask for help. It is easy to become overwhelmed by struggles. Life can seem unmanageable. Lutheran Family & Children's Services of Missouri (LFCS) can help you find hope and discover solutions. LFCS provides outpatient therapy throughout the state in one of our convenient locations and provides telehealth through a virtual platform. LFCS has offices in: St. Louis (Olivette), St. Peters, Union, Columbia, Cape Girardeau, and satellite offices throughout the Greater St. Louis Region. Coming soon in Kansas City, Springfield, and Joplin!
We have experience helping with: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss, Behavioral Problems, Separation & Divorce, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Family Disruption and Foster Care/Adoption, Self-Harm, and much more.
We know how hard it is to ask for help. It is easy to become overwhelmed by struggles. Life can seem unmanageable. Lutheran Family & Children's Services of Missouri (LFCS) can help you find hope and discover solutions. LFCS provides outpatient therapy throughout the state in one of our convenient locations and provides telehealth through a virtual platform. LFCS has offices in: St. Louis (Olivette), St. Peters, Union, Columbia, Cape Girardeau, and satellite offices throughout the Greater St. Louis Region. Coming soon in Kansas City, Springfield, and Joplin!
(314) 819-9852 View (314) 819-9852
Photo of Claycie Gerlt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Claycie Gerlt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I am an adoption competent clinician, familiar with common issues present for all parties involved, including grief and loss, parenting challenges, and the search and reunion process.
Hi, my name is Claycie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm glad you are here! I believe therapy should be a truly collaborative experience as we work together on approaches that may work best for you. I value feedback and open communication about what would be most helpful as you begin the healing process. I work with adults dealing with adoption issues, trauma, grief and loss, and religious trauma, utilizing elements of CBT, ACT, EMDR, IFS, and mindfulness. Difficult life experiences can disconnect us from ourselves, and I aim to help clients start trusting that they are fully capable of healing.
I am an adoption competent clinician, familiar with common issues present for all parties involved, including grief and loss, parenting challenges, and the search and reunion process.
Hi, my name is Claycie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I'm glad you are here! I believe therapy should be a truly collaborative experience as we work together on approaches that may work best for you. I value feedback and open communication about what would be most helpful as you begin the healing process. I work with adults dealing with adoption issues, trauma, grief and loss, and religious trauma, utilizing elements of CBT, ACT, EMDR, IFS, and mindfulness. Difficult life experiences can disconnect us from ourselves, and I aim to help clients start trusting that they are fully capable of healing.
(314) 582-8846 x736 View (314) 582-8846 x736
Photo of Michael Deal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Michael Deal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
When working with individuals, I aim to help them through a collaborative process to understand the underlying issues that are causing them to not live up to their potential. The model which I employ assumes that many of our struggles are connected to conflicts within us of which we are not completely aware. I feel that therapy is most effective when the entire person's personality and history are considered instead of just focusing on current problematic behaviors. My work focuses on recognizing long standing relationship patterns that are troublesome as well as developing a more emotionally stable and adaptive personality.
When working with individuals, I aim to help them through a collaborative process to understand the underlying issues that are causing them to not live up to their potential. The model which I employ assumes that many of our struggles are connected to conflicts within us of which we are not completely aware. I feel that therapy is most effective when the entire person's personality and history are considered instead of just focusing on current problematic behaviors. My work focuses on recognizing long standing relationship patterns that are troublesome as well as developing a more emotionally stable and adaptive personality.
(314) 561-7106 View (314) 561-7106
Photo of Scott Heuer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Scott Heuer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Each of us has a long list of personal strengths within our “SELF”, but too often they go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. Life is full of experiences that hold a lasting effect on us and deter us from moving forward. I work with you to identify, and utilize these strengths by processing through the barriers of past trauma, stress and anxiety, and the heaviness of a lack of self-worth. I work with any individual no matter their identity, but being someone who has personal life experiences with addiction, who identifies as LGBTQ and is an adoptive parent, I have developed a special interest in these individuals.
Each of us has a long list of personal strengths within our “SELF”, but too often they go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. Life is full of experiences that hold a lasting effect on us and deter us from moving forward. I work with you to identify, and utilize these strengths by processing through the barriers of past trauma, stress and anxiety, and the heaviness of a lack of self-worth. I work with any individual no matter their identity, but being someone who has personal life experiences with addiction, who identifies as LGBTQ and is an adoptive parent, I have developed a special interest in these individuals.
(314) 328-8731 View (314) 328-8731
Photo of Alice Leckenby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Alice Leckenby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63102  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) with over 10 years’ experience working with families. As a Registered Play Therapist, I use non-directive play therapy to allow children to experience control and increase their ability to make their own healthy decisions.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) with over 10 years’ experience working with families. As a Registered Play Therapist, I use non-directive play therapy to allow children to experience control and increase their ability to make their own healthy decisions.
(660) 527-7622 View (660) 527-7622
Photo of Ameerah Ali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Ameerah Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63136
Hello, I'm Ameerah specializing in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have been providing therapy to clients for over 15 years utilizing a variety of therapies including an eclectic approach to therapy, trauma- focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in helping my clients to reach their goals.
Hello, I'm Ameerah specializing in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have been providing therapy to clients for over 15 years utilizing a variety of therapies including an eclectic approach to therapy, trauma- focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in helping my clients to reach their goals.
(314) 684-8363 View (314) 684-8363
Photo of Devin Feeney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Louis, MO
Devin Feeney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
I believe that we were all created to be in community with one another. Many things, such as stress, trauma, or loss can disrupt our ability to do so. I am passionate about helping individuals and families learn healthier ways of relating by promoting safety and attachment within relationships. I believe you, the caregiver, are the best resource for your child. I hope to see your family flourish and find a way to rely on one another through life's difficulties.
I believe that we were all created to be in community with one another. Many things, such as stress, trauma, or loss can disrupt our ability to do so. I am passionate about helping individuals and families learn healthier ways of relating by promoting safety and attachment within relationships. I believe you, the caregiver, are the best resource for your child. I hope to see your family flourish and find a way to rely on one another through life's difficulties.
(314) 897-3947 View (314) 897-3947
Photo of Megan J Adamo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Megan J Adamo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
I work with adults, adolescents, and children. Often, as adults, we find ourselves stuck. You keep trying, yet things aren’t getting better. Usually, this means you have developed a self-limiting belief. Let’s talk. Together we can identify the root of the issue, develop new core beliefs, and create a plan to develop a more fulfilling life. Children and adolescents need a safe space and a person that accepts them for who they truly are, so they can express themselves openly. I focus on helping them see their true worth to enhance their growth and development, while teaching them skills to express emotions and cope with stressors.
I work with adults, adolescents, and children. Often, as adults, we find ourselves stuck. You keep trying, yet things aren’t getting better. Usually, this means you have developed a self-limiting belief. Let’s talk. Together we can identify the root of the issue, develop new core beliefs, and create a plan to develop a more fulfilling life. Children and adolescents need a safe space and a person that accepts them for who they truly are, so they can express themselves openly. I focus on helping them see their true worth to enhance their growth and development, while teaching them skills to express emotions and cope with stressors.
(636) 428-3547 x417 View (636) 428-3547 x417
Photo of Gabrielle Kunar-Macias, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Louis, MO
Gabrielle Kunar-Macias
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63104
Life can be beautiful, but let’s be honest, it can also be stressful! From our very first session, you can expect to feel safe, validated, and at ease. I use humor and a strengths-based approach to create a space where we can be our authentic selves. My style is integrative, trauma-informed, and I tailor our work to meet your individual needs, goals, and interest. I incorporate art, play, reading, mindfulness, inner child, and parts work into our sessions. I can also communicate and collaborate with you or your child’s other providers (school counselors, teachers, physicians, etc.) to ensure a holistic and coordinated approach.
Life can be beautiful, but let’s be honest, it can also be stressful! From our very first session, you can expect to feel safe, validated, and at ease. I use humor and a strengths-based approach to create a space where we can be our authentic selves. My style is integrative, trauma-informed, and I tailor our work to meet your individual needs, goals, and interest. I incorporate art, play, reading, mindfulness, inner child, and parts work into our sessions. I can also communicate and collaborate with you or your child’s other providers (school counselors, teachers, physicians, etc.) to ensure a holistic and coordinated approach.
(314) 697-2260 View (314) 697-2260
Photo of Erica Lynn Braun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Erica Lynn Braun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
(314) 310-3654 View (314) 310-3654
Photo of Sarah F Coffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Sarah F Coffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63143
Focused on women and female youth, Sarah's practice offers therapy for individuals, families and groups, within a safe and nurturing environment. This strong therapeutic alliance affords clients the comfort in which to develop greater self-awareness, heal from past traumas, and learn to cope with present difficulties. Along with her full-time private practice, Sarah is an Adjunct Professor at Washington University Brown School, where she received her graduate degree, and maintains an active presence in the community as a private doula and as the Missouri Co-Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
Focused on women and female youth, Sarah's practice offers therapy for individuals, families and groups, within a safe and nurturing environment. This strong therapeutic alliance affords clients the comfort in which to develop greater self-awareness, heal from past traumas, and learn to cope with present difficulties. Along with her full-time private practice, Sarah is an Adjunct Professor at Washington University Brown School, where she received her graduate degree, and maintains an active presence in the community as a private doula and as the Missouri Co-Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
(314) 527-3084 View (314) 527-3084

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.