Adoption Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Jennifer Davidson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Jennifer Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I have worked in the field of adoptions for many years but also have personal experience with adoption as well as working with neurodivergent children.
Accepting New Clients! I am passionate about working with clients of all ages from children to teens, to young adults, to women who are looking for someone they can relate to. My goal is to provide a safe and trusting environment where clients can explore their potential for growth as well as deal with sensitive issues. Areas of specialty include but not limited to working with clients who have experienced trauma, autism, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, parenting, and clients and family members who have experienced a Cancer diagnosis and need support. Call today to schedule an intake session to see if I am the right fit for you.
I have worked in the field of adoptions for many years but also have personal experience with adoption as well as working with neurodivergent children.
Accepting New Clients! I am passionate about working with clients of all ages from children to teens, to young adults, to women who are looking for someone they can relate to. My goal is to provide a safe and trusting environment where clients can explore their potential for growth as well as deal with sensitive issues. Areas of specialty include but not limited to working with clients who have experienced trauma, autism, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, parenting, and clients and family members who have experienced a Cancer diagnosis and need support. Call today to schedule an intake session to see if I am the right fit for you.
(704) 286-8475 x103 View (704) 286-8475 x103
Photo of Amy A. Hecht, Psychologist, PhD
Amy A. Hecht
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a special clinical concentration in relationships, couples and adoption.
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a special clinical concentration in relationships, couples and adoption.
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
(917) 652-6857 View (917) 652-6857
Photo of Kristen L. Venit, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kristen L. Venit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I also have considerable experience helping parents navigate issues related to divorce, adoption, anxiety, grief, loss and attention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering therapeutic support to individuals, couples, and families. Psychotherapy provides a space that is uniquely your own where you can address your concerns in a safe place, free from judgment. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide empathy and support while giving you useful feedback and insight to help resolve difficulties you are experiencing. We will work together to help you find the tools and resources necessary to help you cope with stressful situations.
I also have considerable experience helping parents navigate issues related to divorce, adoption, anxiety, grief, loss and attention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering therapeutic support to individuals, couples, and families. Psychotherapy provides a space that is uniquely your own where you can address your concerns in a safe place, free from judgment. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide empathy and support while giving you useful feedback and insight to help resolve difficulties you are experiencing. We will work together to help you find the tools and resources necessary to help you cope with stressful situations.
(704) 594-3027 View (704) 594-3027
Photo of Megan Montgomery Clark, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Megan Montgomery Clark
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Waitlist for new clients
My counseling experience includes trauma, anxiety, depression, transition issues, infertility, adoption, gender/sexual orientation, special needs parenting, loss/grief issues, trauma, church hurt, body image, childhood abuse, and divorce.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the primary ingredient to successful therapy. I work hard to create a warm, trusting relationship with each client and go at their pace. I enjoy working with individuals (21+). Particular areas of interest for me include trauma healing, creating healthy attachment relationships, emotionally healthy spirituality (including deconstruction/reconstruction), body image, parenting support, and women's issues. I welcome and value people from all religious backgrounds, sexual orientations and ethnicities. I see clients from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, both in-person and virtually.
My counseling experience includes trauma, anxiety, depression, transition issues, infertility, adoption, gender/sexual orientation, special needs parenting, loss/grief issues, trauma, church hurt, body image, childhood abuse, and divorce.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the primary ingredient to successful therapy. I work hard to create a warm, trusting relationship with each client and go at their pace. I enjoy working with individuals (21+). Particular areas of interest for me include trauma healing, creating healthy attachment relationships, emotionally healthy spirituality (including deconstruction/reconstruction), body image, parenting support, and women's issues. I welcome and value people from all religious backgrounds, sexual orientations and ethnicities. I see clients from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, both in-person and virtually.
(704) 387-5211 View (704) 387-5211
Photo of Sarah (Sally) M Gordon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah (Sally) M Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
I am an outpatient therapist in Charlotte, NC specializing in adoption and the treatment of developmental trauma.
I am trained in the Othmer method of neurofeedback. This modality is the recommended treatment of choice per Dr. Bessel van der Kolk for developmental trauma. It is also very effective with ADHD (American Academy of Pediatrics) as well as anxiety, PTSD and addictions, anxiety, sleep, migraines and many other issues. It is a safe and effective treatment.
I am an outpatient therapist in Charlotte, NC specializing in adoption and the treatment of developmental trauma.
I am trained in the Othmer method of neurofeedback. This modality is the recommended treatment of choice per Dr. Bessel van der Kolk for developmental trauma. It is also very effective with ADHD (American Academy of Pediatrics) as well as anxiety, PTSD and addictions, anxiety, sleep, migraines and many other issues. It is a safe and effective treatment.
(704) 215-4598 View (704) 215-4598
Photo of DeShawn C Spears, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
DeShawn C Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202
Additionally, I have developed an special interest in working with trauma and adoption related issues.
I have provided field-based therapy for local agencies. I work in the area of post adoptions in my full-time position and certified as an Adoption Competent Therapist through the Center for Adoption Support and Education. Additionally, I am rostered through the NC Child Treatment Program in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Additionally, I have developed an special interest in working with trauma and adoption related issues.
I have provided field-based therapy for local agencies. I work in the area of post adoptions in my full-time position and certified as an Adoption Competent Therapist through the Center for Adoption Support and Education. Additionally, I am rostered through the NC Child Treatment Program in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
(704) 457-2008 View (704) 457-2008
Photo of Joseph Bane, Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Joseph Bane
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I love helping people identify and heal from attachment injuries (extensive history working with adoption and transnational adoption) and substance/alcohol use challenges.
When certain parts of our life feel out of control, it creates stress that impacts other areas of our life. Seeking help can feel like a chore. Not only do you have to find a therapist that feels like a good fit, but you have to tell your story to a stranger. I know all of this, and I want to make it feel easy, productive, and worth your time. I enjoy helping all people, but some of my refined interests include traumatic stress, attachment injuries, SUD's, and life transitions. I can help adults, teens, kids, couples and families. In my work with teens, I have interest and experience in helping adoptees and transnational adoptees.
I love helping people identify and heal from attachment injuries (extensive history working with adoption and transnational adoption) and substance/alcohol use challenges.
When certain parts of our life feel out of control, it creates stress that impacts other areas of our life. Seeking help can feel like a chore. Not only do you have to find a therapist that feels like a good fit, but you have to tell your story to a stranger. I know all of this, and I want to make it feel easy, productive, and worth your time. I enjoy helping all people, but some of my refined interests include traumatic stress, attachment injuries, SUD's, and life transitions. I can help adults, teens, kids, couples and families. In my work with teens, I have interest and experience in helping adoptees and transnational adoptees.
(828) 520-2106 View (828) 520-2106
Photo of Shiquita N Reddick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Shiquita N Reddick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am also a licensed Pre and Post adoption worker.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina and New Jersey. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, trauma, or other personal struggles. I work with individuals seeking to create meaningful changes in their lives, heal from past wounds, and set and achieve their personal goals. My approach is warm, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practices. Together, we will work to understand the root causes of your struggles, explore new ways of thinking, and develop practical strategies to help you manage emotions and confidently move forward.
I am also a licensed Pre and Post adoption worker.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina and New Jersey. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges, whether they involve anxiety, depression, trauma, or other personal struggles. I work with individuals seeking to create meaningful changes in their lives, heal from past wounds, and set and achieve their personal goals. My approach is warm, compassionate, and grounded in evidence-based practices. Together, we will work to understand the root causes of your struggles, explore new ways of thinking, and develop practical strategies to help you manage emotions and confidently move forward.
(984) 266-8176 View (984) 266-8176
Photo of Emily Webb Olsen, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, RYT200
Emily Webb Olsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, RYT200
Verified Verified
Serves Area
My specialties include: Increasing Self-Worth/Empowerment; Trauma; Attachment; Infertility; Generational Trauma; Grief and loss; Adverse life experiences and childhood trauma; Complex/Developmental PTSD; Anxiety and Depression; Adoption Related Themes; Relationships.
Feeling stuck? Unable to make progress through traditional talk therapy? With deep-level therapy, I specialize in providing support to individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, addictive behaviors, and negative patterns that keep them stuck. My approach integrates proven therapeutic techniques with an understanding of how trauma affects both the mind and body to find the root. Together, we'll work toward lasting healing, empowering you to break free from past hurts and create a healthier, more fulfilling life.
My specialties include: Increasing Self-Worth/Empowerment; Trauma; Attachment; Infertility; Generational Trauma; Grief and loss; Adverse life experiences and childhood trauma; Complex/Developmental PTSD; Anxiety and Depression; Adoption Related Themes; Relationships.
Feeling stuck? Unable to make progress through traditional talk therapy? With deep-level therapy, I specialize in providing support to individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, addictive behaviors, and negative patterns that keep them stuck. My approach integrates proven therapeutic techniques with an understanding of how trauma affects both the mind and body to find the root. Together, we'll work toward lasting healing, empowering you to break free from past hurts and create a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(540) 235-5664 View (540) 235-5664
Photo of Jeffery D Rosenbaum, Psychologist, PhD
Jeffery D Rosenbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28287
school, new siblings, following rules, divorce, adoption), and they learn to express themselves positively.
Children, adolescents, and families are the focus of my practice. Developing and strengthening the parent-child relationship is especially important with young children. Helping children learn to feel more capable and independent is important for school age children. Developing autonomy and learning to make good choices is critical for adolescents. By creating achievable goals together and working in a safe and supportive environment, we are able to create positive experiences for both children and parents.
school, new siblings, following rules, divorce, adoption), and they learn to express themselves positively.
Children, adolescents, and families are the focus of my practice. Developing and strengthening the parent-child relationship is especially important with young children. Helping children learn to feel more capable and independent is important for school age children. Developing autonomy and learning to make good choices is critical for adolescents. By creating achievable goals together and working in a safe and supportive environment, we are able to create positive experiences for both children and parents.
(704) 286-9594 View (704) 286-9594
Photo of Anita Badillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Anita Badillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience helping clients who have had various concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, trauma, life change adjustments, adoption, substance use, and aging family members.
I like to use strength-based approaches to help people realize their own strengths and power to affect change in their lives and lead with confidence.
I have experience helping clients who have had various concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, trauma, life change adjustments, adoption, substance use, and aging family members.
I like to use strength-based approaches to help people realize their own strengths and power to affect change in their lives and lead with confidence.
(980) 261-3921 View (980) 261-3921
Photo of Debra P Hinson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Debra P Hinson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Additionally,, I am TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) certified and EMDR trained working of towards EMDR certification.
Life is a journey that can often become difficult to maneuver. However, facing life's struggles can empower us to be the people we are intended to be. This process is often mentally and physically exhausting. I would be honored to walk alongside you, your child, and/or your family on your personal journey of self-discovery. I love children and specialize in non-directive play therapy with children 3-7 years of age. Additionally, I work with adolescents and teens navigating the often difficult times of transition through middle/high school. Finally, I have a heart to work with women in life transitions.
Additionally,, I am TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) certified and EMDR trained working of towards EMDR certification.
Life is a journey that can often become difficult to maneuver. However, facing life's struggles can empower us to be the people we are intended to be. This process is often mentally and physically exhausting. I would be honored to walk alongside you, your child, and/or your family on your personal journey of self-discovery. I love children and specialize in non-directive play therapy with children 3-7 years of age. Additionally, I work with adolescents and teens navigating the often difficult times of transition through middle/high school. Finally, I have a heart to work with women in life transitions.
(704) 441-3307 View (704) 441-3307
Photo of Courtney Barnett - Blooming Fields Christian Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCCMHC, NCC
Blooming Fields Christian Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
My approach is Christ-centered and tailored to the specific needs of the client. I include EMDR, CCPT, Theraplay, Sandtray Therapy, expressive art techniques, IFS and DBT approaches, as well as prayer when requested.
Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
My approach is Christ-centered and tailored to the specific needs of the client. I include EMDR, CCPT, Theraplay, Sandtray Therapy, expressive art techniques, IFS and DBT approaches, as well as prayer when requested.
View
Photo of Jenny N. Poston, Psychologist, PhD
Jenny N. Poston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Areas of expertise include psychological fitness evaluations (for bariatric surgery, adoption, spinal cord stimulator implants, fitness for duty, etc.
As a psychologist with over 20 years' experience, I work with people who are struggling with diverse challenges, from temporarily overwhelming stressors to life-altering losses or burdens. Complicated or unsatisfactory relationships, difficult life transitions, health concerns, and significant losses are common problems that, if left unresolved, can lead to depression, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy, helplessness, or hopelessness. My goal is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore your concerns. I offer insight, support, and guidance, while helping you develop strategies to navigate life's challenges and cope effectively with the difficulties you are facing.
Areas of expertise include psychological fitness evaluations (for bariatric surgery, adoption, spinal cord stimulator implants, fitness for duty, etc.
As a psychologist with over 20 years' experience, I work with people who are struggling with diverse challenges, from temporarily overwhelming stressors to life-altering losses or burdens. Complicated or unsatisfactory relationships, difficult life transitions, health concerns, and significant losses are common problems that, if left unresolved, can lead to depression, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy, helplessness, or hopelessness. My goal is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore your concerns. I offer insight, support, and guidance, while helping you develop strategies to navigate life's challenges and cope effectively with the difficulties you are facing.
(704) 288-0495 View (704) 288-0495
Photo of Dr. Kelly Breen Boyce, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Kelly Breen Boyce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
She also conducts psychological assessments for ADHD, immigration issues, adoption, etc.
A candidate at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas in Chapel Hill, Dr. Boyce has a deep appreciation of the complexities of the mind as well as the impact of early experiences and relationships. Psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theories offer a comprehensive understanding of human nature. As opposed to other models that aim to solve a particular problem or target symptoms, psychoanalysis gets to the heart of the matter. Dr. Boyce provides therapy that addresses the whole person, helping the individual to develop inner capacities that can improve relationships as well as foster a richer, more meaningful life.
She also conducts psychological assessments for ADHD, immigration issues, adoption, etc.
A candidate at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas in Chapel Hill, Dr. Boyce has a deep appreciation of the complexities of the mind as well as the impact of early experiences and relationships. Psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theories offer a comprehensive understanding of human nature. As opposed to other models that aim to solve a particular problem or target symptoms, psychoanalysis gets to the heart of the matter. Dr. Boyce provides therapy that addresses the whole person, helping the individual to develop inner capacities that can improve relationships as well as foster a richer, more meaningful life.
(704) 612-2373 View (704) 612-2373
Photo of Tasha Ganthier - Inner Peace Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Inner Peace Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
She has extensive experience working with complex issues such as: anxiety, stress, depression, attachment, couples/marital challenges, trauma, parenting, adoption, end of life counseling, medically fragile concerns, spirituality, mediation, coping, mindfulness and interpersonal concerns.
"Happiness comes from accepting that we cannot control everything that occurs, but we have power to create balance, beauty and peace in every area of our lives." Tasha Ganthier is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master's degree from New York University. Her experience in therapy began in 1999. She has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, parents and those struggling with life's transitions. Tasha has a passion for people and utilizes a very organic, holistic and evidence-based approach.
She has extensive experience working with complex issues such as: anxiety, stress, depression, attachment, couples/marital challenges, trauma, parenting, adoption, end of life counseling, medically fragile concerns, spirituality, mediation, coping, mindfulness and interpersonal concerns.
"Happiness comes from accepting that we cannot control everything that occurs, but we have power to create balance, beauty and peace in every area of our lives." Tasha Ganthier is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master's degree from New York University. Her experience in therapy began in 1999. She has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, parents and those struggling with life's transitions. Tasha has a passion for people and utilizes a very organic, holistic and evidence-based approach.
(704) 727-4989 View (704) 727-4989
Photo of Kiley Thiel, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LCMHCS, CCTP
Kiley Thiel
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LCMHCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I have completed specialized training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and also the Training for Adoption Competency.
I received my MA in 2002 from Appalachian State and have been practicing as a Licensed Counselor since 2003. I have worked with children, teens and young adults in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient Behavioral Health, school based services, private practice and agency work. I worked as a grief counselor at KinderMourn from 2007 - 2020.
I have completed specialized training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and also the Training for Adoption Competency.
I received my MA in 2002 from Appalachian State and have been practicing as a Licensed Counselor since 2003. I have worked with children, teens and young adults in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient Behavioral Health, school based services, private practice and agency work. I worked as a grief counselor at KinderMourn from 2007 - 2020.
(980) 246-3499 View (980) 246-3499
Photo of Lindsey Kovalik Bianchini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Lindsey Kovalik Bianchini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I frequently work with young adults and teenagers, anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, school stress, foster care, adoption, cancer/oncology, and self harm behaviors.
I am licensed in Illinois, North Carolina, and South Carolina - which means if you are inside those states - we can work together! Are you looking for someone to listen to what you're feeling without judgement? Do you or you child feel constantly worried or afraid? Do you or you child feel hopeless, helpless, or feel unlovable? I will provide you with a safe place, a listening ear, and an open mind. I will work to meet you/your child where you/they are at in your/their mental health journey.
I frequently work with young adults and teenagers, anxiety, depression, trauma related disorders, school stress, foster care, adoption, cancer/oncology, and self harm behaviors.
I am licensed in Illinois, North Carolina, and South Carolina - which means if you are inside those states - we can work together! Are you looking for someone to listen to what you're feeling without judgement? Do you or you child feel constantly worried or afraid? Do you or you child feel hopeless, helpless, or feel unlovable? I will provide you with a safe place, a listening ear, and an open mind. I will work to meet you/your child where you/they are at in your/their mental health journey.
(331) 210-9134 View (331) 210-9134
Photo of Casey Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Casey Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are struggling to start a family, dealing with pregnancy/postpartum related mental health concerns, pursuing kinship care/foster care/ adoption, or working to overcome a traumatic experience, I would love to connect and see if I can assist you in reaching your goals.
I specialize in helping families through life transitions. I am trained to assist in building attachment within the family, to support women with mental health challenges during the pregnancy/postpartum periods, and to support families through fertility challenges. I am also trained to help individuals in working through traumatic experiences.
If you are struggling to start a family, dealing with pregnancy/postpartum related mental health concerns, pursuing kinship care/foster care/ adoption, or working to overcome a traumatic experience, I would love to connect and see if I can assist you in reaching your goals.
I specialize in helping families through life transitions. I am trained to assist in building attachment within the family, to support women with mental health challenges during the pregnancy/postpartum periods, and to support families through fertility challenges. I am also trained to help individuals in working through traumatic experiences.
(980) 330-4022 View (980) 330-4022
Photo of Liza Frank Caraglio, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Liza Frank Caraglio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I hold a Post-Master's Certification in clinical issues in adoption.
I strive to assist my clients in reaching their full potential by helping them to develop positive self esteem and strong coping skills, and to have healthy relationships, personally and professionally. Whether you are struggling with life's everyday challenges, or more serious trauma, we can work together to provide you with the tools you need to be happy and healthy. I provide a comfortable, judgment free environment. Please contact me to discuss your therapeutic needs and together we can develop a plan for how you can reach your goals!
I hold a Post-Master's Certification in clinical issues in adoption.
I strive to assist my clients in reaching their full potential by helping them to develop positive self esteem and strong coping skills, and to have healthy relationships, personally and professionally. Whether you are struggling with life's everyday challenges, or more serious trauma, we can work together to provide you with the tools you need to be happy and healthy. I provide a comfortable, judgment free environment. Please contact me to discuss your therapeutic needs and together we can develop a plan for how you can reach your goals!
(919) 891-8877 View (919) 891-8877
1
...
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.