Adoption Therapists in Smithfield, NC

Photo of Jennifer Leigh-Ann Osterhoudt, LCSW-A, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Leigh-Ann Osterhoudt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
My counseling interests include foster care, adoption, parenting, single parenting, trauma, childhood trauma, women's issues, family counseling, marital issues, divorce recovery, grief, and life transitions.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, marriage difficulties, parenting issues or past trauma? Does your life feel overwhelming right now? My goal is to provide a warm, supportive, and compassionate environment for you to discuss and address the issues that are troubling you. I have 21 years experience as a social worker in child welfare. I have experience with trauma, grief, and loss. In addition, I have experience with substance abuse recovery and divorce recovery. I have worked with individuals, couples, women in crisis pregnancy, pregnant teens, teen mothers, single mothers, and foster and adoptive parents.
My counseling interests include foster care, adoption, parenting, single parenting, trauma, childhood trauma, women's issues, family counseling, marital issues, divorce recovery, grief, and life transitions.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, marriage difficulties, parenting issues or past trauma? Does your life feel overwhelming right now? My goal is to provide a warm, supportive, and compassionate environment for you to discuss and address the issues that are troubling you. I have 21 years experience as a social worker in child welfare. I have experience with trauma, grief, and loss. In addition, I have experience with substance abuse recovery and divorce recovery. I have worked with individuals, couples, women in crisis pregnancy, pregnant teens, teen mothers, single mothers, and foster and adoptive parents.
(910) 460-6388 View (910) 460-6388
Photo of Fakira Wahid, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Fakira Wahid
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with thousands of hours of counseling and related experience. I hold a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I have experience working with men, women, and children of all ages. My professional experience includes individual counseling, couples counseling, family counseling, and group counseling. I practice from an eclectic style with an emphasis on the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modality. I am an action-oriented clinician who believes outcomes speak for themselves. Visit www.ashaycounselingagency.com for more information.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with thousands of hours of counseling and related experience. I hold a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I have experience working with men, women, and children of all ages. My professional experience includes individual counseling, couples counseling, family counseling, and group counseling. I practice from an eclectic style with an emphasis on the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modality. I am an action-oriented clinician who believes outcomes speak for themselves. Visit www.ashaycounselingagency.com for more information.
(919) 343-9961 View (919) 343-9961
Photo of Valerie Copeland, MC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valerie Copeland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577
I am experienced with adolescents, disabled veterans, homeless individuals and families, developmentally disabled adults, Individuals, Couples, Teens,Children, and Families of trauma. Treatment includes Group Home settings, Residential Treatment Facilities, In-Patient, homeless shelters, and in the family home I am a certified a Trauma Specialist, I've received training in Gambling addiction, and have completed several hours in Transactional Analysis/Re-decision Therapy at the South East Institute in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I have been trained in Sexual Offender Treatment and Assessment with upcoming Certification 2016. I have expertise in grief and loss, launching, and communication improvement within the family structure.
I am experienced with adolescents, disabled veterans, homeless individuals and families, developmentally disabled adults, Individuals, Couples, Teens,Children, and Families of trauma. Treatment includes Group Home settings, Residential Treatment Facilities, In-Patient, homeless shelters, and in the family home I am a certified a Trauma Specialist, I've received training in Gambling addiction, and have completed several hours in Transactional Analysis/Re-decision Therapy at the South East Institute in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I have been trained in Sexual Offender Treatment and Assessment with upcoming Certification 2016. I have expertise in grief and loss, launching, and communication improvement within the family structure.
(919) 535-4883 View (919) 535-4883
Photo of undefined - House of Hope of NC, MS, LCMHCA, Counselor
House of Hope of NC
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Smithfield, NC 27577
House of Hope of North Carolina is a Christian Non-Profit Organization that offers various counseling services, such as individual, couples, family, and group therapy. House of Hope has therapists who can work with all ages, genders, and backgrounds. In addition, we offer a Christian therapeutic residential program for teenage girls 12-17, with a strong emphasis on parent involvement, that offers support to individuals and families who need a higher level of care. We also provide a free Christian group for teens and their caregivers who have experienced sexual trauma.
House of Hope of North Carolina is a Christian Non-Profit Organization that offers various counseling services, such as individual, couples, family, and group therapy. House of Hope has therapists who can work with all ages, genders, and backgrounds. In addition, we offer a Christian therapeutic residential program for teenage girls 12-17, with a strong emphasis on parent involvement, that offers support to individuals and families who need a higher level of care. We also provide a free Christian group for teens and their caregivers who have experienced sexual trauma.
(919) 899-4803 View (919) 899-4803

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Beth Cerrito-Cohen, PhD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Beth Cerrito-Cohen
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27520
If you are thinking about counseling or therapy, chances are you are in distress, feeling not like yourself, or are looking for help in dealing with a difficult situation. You also probably want to find a therapist who is going to understand you and who has experience dealing with the problems and concerns that you are facing. I am available for in-person or telehealth sessions in North Carolina. I also offer telehealth appointments for patients located in New York or Florida.
If you are thinking about counseling or therapy, chances are you are in distress, feeling not like yourself, or are looking for help in dealing with a difficult situation. You also probably want to find a therapist who is going to understand you and who has experience dealing with the problems and concerns that you are facing. I am available for in-person or telehealth sessions in North Carolina. I also offer telehealth appointments for patients located in New York or Florida.
(919) 849-5930 View (919) 849-5930
Photo of Janelle A. Johnson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janelle A. Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
There could be countless reasons that you are here. Perhaps you have trouble managing your day-to-day stress and don't want to get out of bed. Maybe you and your spouse or children are facing a great disruption that seems too much to handle. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to get well. We are committed to helping you do just that.
There could be countless reasons that you are here. Perhaps you have trouble managing your day-to-day stress and don't want to get out of bed. Maybe you and your spouse or children are facing a great disruption that seems too much to handle. Or maybe you seem like a different person since being pregnant, and you're concerned that you will never be your old self again. No matter the case, the real reason you're here is to get well. We are committed to helping you do just that.
(919) 514-2273 View (919) 514-2273

Online Therapists

Photo of undefined - Wake Forest Peace of Mind, PLLC, MS, MA, LCMHC
Wake Forest Peace of Mind, PLLC
MS, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
You are not alone.. You have options.. You can make healthy changes to give you peace of mind. P.O.M. sessions are conducted in a gentle, honest, down-to-earth, and resourceful way. My 20+ years of experience treating couples, adults, and kids help me to better clarify your challenge(s), identify options, and share strategies for change. Approach: Cognitive behavioral. Experienced, trained, interested in treating these challenges: Relationship/marital, adoption, military, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, anger, parenting, chronic pain, and life transitions (menopause, relocation, divorce). See: WFPeaceofMind.com
You are not alone.. You have options.. You can make healthy changes to give you peace of mind. P.O.M. sessions are conducted in a gentle, honest, down-to-earth, and resourceful way. My 20+ years of experience treating couples, adults, and kids help me to better clarify your challenge(s), identify options, and share strategies for change. Approach: Cognitive behavioral. Experienced, trained, interested in treating these challenges: Relationship/marital, adoption, military, depression, anxiety, panic, stress, anger, parenting, chronic pain, and life transitions (menopause, relocation, divorce). See: WFPeaceofMind.com
(919) 249-7192 View (919) 249-7192
Photo of Brinn Clayton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brinn Clayton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Roxboro, NC 27573
My counseling interests include treating depression and anxiety, stress management, adoption, special needs parenting, life transitions, and couples counseling.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I spent 30 years in the community newspaper industry with the community newspaper in Roxboro, North Carolina. I graduated from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary with an MA in Christian Marriage, Family, and Individual Counseling. I desire to assist clients between the ages of 12 and 99 and all backgrounds in improving their mental and relational health. I see clients in Durham, North Carolina, at the offices of Potter Counseling and Consulting on Mondays. Tuesdays through Fridays, at my Roxboro location. I am not currently taking face-to-face clients at the Durham location.
My counseling interests include treating depression and anxiety, stress management, adoption, special needs parenting, life transitions, and couples counseling.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I spent 30 years in the community newspaper industry with the community newspaper in Roxboro, North Carolina. I graduated from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary with an MA in Christian Marriage, Family, and Individual Counseling. I desire to assist clients between the ages of 12 and 99 and all backgrounds in improving their mental and relational health. I see clients in Durham, North Carolina, at the offices of Potter Counseling and Consulting on Mondays. Tuesdays through Fridays, at my Roxboro location. I am not currently taking face-to-face clients at the Durham location.
(919) 568-5232 View (919) 568-5232
Photo of undefined - Cornerstone Counseling and Wellness
Cornerstone Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Our specialty areas: addiction, ADHD, adoption, anxiety, autism spectrum, behavioral issues, career counseling, depression, eating disorders, family conflict, grief, life transitions, marital/premarital, mood disorders, OCD, parenting, peer relationships, self-esteem, stress, trauma/PTSD.
We have a full clinical team located in Raleigh, Wake Forest, Durham and Greenville, as well as a team that offers teletherapy to clients throughout the State of North Carolina. Please visit our website to learn more!
Our specialty areas: addiction, ADHD, adoption, anxiety, autism spectrum, behavioral issues, career counseling, depression, eating disorders, family conflict, grief, life transitions, marital/premarital, mood disorders, OCD, parenting, peer relationships, self-esteem, stress, trauma/PTSD.
We have a full clinical team located in Raleigh, Wake Forest, Durham and Greenville, as well as a team that offers teletherapy to clients throughout the State of North Carolina. Please visit our website to learn more!
(919) 948-1239 View (919) 948-1239
Photo of Sara Skinner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Skinner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Welcome! I aim to create a supportive space to partner with clients in their healing process. I have over a decade of experience working with adult and youth trauma survivors and their loved ones. I partner with folks seeking support with trauma recovery, anxiety, parenting, reproductive health (pregnancy, abortion, loss, etc), adoption/fostercare, grief, burnout, compassion fatigue, and/or identity exploration. I am a White, straight, cisgender mother who is dedicated to personal and collective liberation from White supremacy, capitalism, and patriarchy.
Welcome! I aim to create a supportive space to partner with clients in their healing process. I have over a decade of experience working with adult and youth trauma survivors and their loved ones. I partner with folks seeking support with trauma recovery, anxiety, parenting, reproductive health (pregnancy, abortion, loss, etc), adoption/fostercare, grief, burnout, compassion fatigue, and/or identity exploration. I am a White, straight, cisgender mother who is dedicated to personal and collective liberation from White supremacy, capitalism, and patriarchy.
(919) 551-6928 View (919) 551-6928
Photo of Nicole Leigh Bettis, EdS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Leigh Bettis
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Emerald Isle, NC 28594
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
I am a marriage & family therapist and a registered play therapist. I have a wide range of experience in working with children, adolescents, couples, individuals, and families. My areas of specialization working with issues related to divorce, child custody, parenting, co-parenting, infidelity, family loss/grief, military family issues, school or work related problems, adoption, infertility, emotion regulation, trust and abandonment issues. My goal is to provide a private, safe place for you to better understand your situation and to help you make the changes necessary to live the life you desire.
(252) 377-4047 View (252) 377-4047
Photo of Ellie De Leon, MS, LCHMC
Ellie De Leon
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCHMC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27610  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients Currently (updated 4/12/24). Ellie believes in genuine, feel-it-down-in-your-bones healing, as the goal of therapeutic support. Working with her will be honest, consensual, deeply compassionate, nonjudgmental, and affirming of any and all identities. Ellie is passionate about serving populations who face greater struggles due to systemic failures. She strives to be shame-free in her practice. She is experienced in work with individuals who have lived with childhood trauma, including in adoption and foster care, as well as religious harm, interpersonal violence, acculturation stress, grief, and mood disorders.
Accepting New Clients Currently (updated 4/12/24). Ellie believes in genuine, feel-it-down-in-your-bones healing, as the goal of therapeutic support. Working with her will be honest, consensual, deeply compassionate, nonjudgmental, and affirming of any and all identities. Ellie is passionate about serving populations who face greater struggles due to systemic failures. She strives to be shame-free in her practice. She is experienced in work with individuals who have lived with childhood trauma, including in adoption and foster care, as well as religious harm, interpersonal violence, acculturation stress, grief, and mood disorders.
(919) 351-6762 View (919) 351-6762
Photo of Katie Mendat List, LCMHCS, RPT-S, CATP, Counselor
Katie Mendat List
Counselor, LCMHCS, RPT-S, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, adoption/foster care, anger, social skills, behavior issues, grief and trauma.
My passion is working with children, adolescents and young adults. Sessions focus on self-awareness, choice, problem solving, goal setting and challenging in a caring and empathetic manner. My goal as your therapist is assisting you in identifying skills and resources you already have and supporting you in strengthening skills and promoting growth. Some change occurs quickly and easily, but most often change requires slow, deliberate, and repeated efforts and I look forwarding to supporting you through this journey of self exploration and growth.
Areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, self-esteem, adoption/foster care, anger, social skills, behavior issues, grief and trauma.
My passion is working with children, adolescents and young adults. Sessions focus on self-awareness, choice, problem solving, goal setting and challenging in a caring and empathetic manner. My goal as your therapist is assisting you in identifying skills and resources you already have and supporting you in strengthening skills and promoting growth. Some change occurs quickly and easily, but most often change requires slow, deliberate, and repeated efforts and I look forwarding to supporting you through this journey of self exploration and growth.
(984) 223-9340 View (984) 223-9340
Photo of Dr. Brie Arevalo, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brie Arevalo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Whether navigating childhood ADHD, trauma, family transitions, adoption, or school behavioral challenges- you do not have to navigate it alone.
The Landing Place, PLLC is opening January 2024! Our clinic offers therapy for children, adolescents, families, and young adults. We specialize in parent-child relationships, childhood trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, adoptee identity formation, life transitions, and Christian faith-integration (upon request). Our mission is to empower every child and family to transform challenges into strengths, celebrate mistakes as stepping stones, and illuminate untold stories that make each individual and family unique. At our core, we strive to collaboratively build relationships - and do so by having fun!
Whether navigating childhood ADHD, trauma, family transitions, adoption, or school behavioral challenges- you do not have to navigate it alone.
The Landing Place, PLLC is opening January 2024! Our clinic offers therapy for children, adolescents, families, and young adults. We specialize in parent-child relationships, childhood trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, adoptee identity formation, life transitions, and Christian faith-integration (upon request). Our mission is to empower every child and family to transform challenges into strengths, celebrate mistakes as stepping stones, and illuminate untold stories that make each individual and family unique. At our core, we strive to collaboratively build relationships - and do so by having fun!
(919) 635-9388 View (919) 635-9388
Photo of Katarina Galyen, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katarina Galyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28314
I love working with those who are truly seeking lasting change. I have worked with people from ages 5-80 from a variety of backgrounds. I have specific training in perinatal and maternal mental health, autism, ADHD, religious trauma, complex trauma, infertility, adoption, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, child and infant loss, LGBTQIA+, play therapy for neurodivergence, and holistic health integration. I am also a lived-experience provider. :-)
I love working with those who are truly seeking lasting change. I have worked with people from ages 5-80 from a variety of backgrounds. I have specific training in perinatal and maternal mental health, autism, ADHD, religious trauma, complex trauma, infertility, adoption, substance use, anxiety, depression, grief and bereavement, child and infant loss, LGBTQIA+, play therapy for neurodivergence, and holistic health integration. I am also a lived-experience provider. :-)
(910) 292-5700 View (910) 292-5700
Photo of Karina Akouka, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karina Akouka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27518  (Online Only)
Whether you are growing your family with your first child, second child or adoption, you can develop a greater sense of clarity and peace.
The transition to motherhood and parenthood can be a difficult transition. During this life changing transition you might find yourself feeling sad, overwhelmed, lonely, and unsure if you will find your groove again. Mothers and parents may feel a loss of sense of self and increased depression and anxiety as they navigate relationships and how they fit into their old selves again. Together, we can discover new ways to manage your feelings and deepen self-awareness to lead you to feel more fulfilled in your new role.
Whether you are growing your family with your first child, second child or adoption, you can develop a greater sense of clarity and peace.
The transition to motherhood and parenthood can be a difficult transition. During this life changing transition you might find yourself feeling sad, overwhelmed, lonely, and unsure if you will find your groove again. Mothers and parents may feel a loss of sense of self and increased depression and anxiety as they navigate relationships and how they fit into their old selves again. Together, we can discover new ways to manage your feelings and deepen self-awareness to lead you to feel more fulfilled in your new role.
(415) 534-4331 View (415) 534-4331
Photo of undefined - Lifeline Counseling at Lifeline Children's Service, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifeline Counseling at Lifeline Children's Service
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27513
At Lifeline, we specialize in adoption and foster care related issues like attachment, trauma, identity development of adoptees, grief, and so much more, and approach treatment in a way that involves the whole family.
Adopting or fostering comes with many challenges. Families go into it excited about the child they will love and care for, and it is common to experience many challenges in loving a child from a hard place. Children placed for adoption or in foster care have experienced a great deal of loss. This leaves them dealing with pain on a deep level. Families often feel guilty or like they haven't been good parents if their child experiences attachment difficulties. But the truth is that it would be weird if they didn't based on their life experiences. These issues are complex and multi-layered, often involving the entire family system.
At Lifeline, we specialize in adoption and foster care related issues like attachment, trauma, identity development of adoptees, grief, and so much more, and approach treatment in a way that involves the whole family.
Adopting or fostering comes with many challenges. Families go into it excited about the child they will love and care for, and it is common to experience many challenges in loving a child from a hard place. Children placed for adoption or in foster care have experienced a great deal of loss. This leaves them dealing with pain on a deep level. Families often feel guilty or like they haven't been good parents if their child experiences attachment difficulties. But the truth is that it would be weird if they didn't based on their life experiences. These issues are complex and multi-layered, often involving the entire family system.
(205) 967-0811 View (205) 967-0811
Photo of Kimberly E. Williams, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly E. Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
I specialized in ADHD, anxiety, adoption, depression, grief and loss, and trauma.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who are looking for help managing intense feelings, navigating social relationships, improving self-esteem, and decrease anxiety. During the therapeutic process, clients learn how to identify, express, and cope with their emotions improving their overall sense of happiness. When working with children, I provide parent support and is an integral part of the therapeutic process. I have providing individual and family therapy in Raleigh since 2001.
I specialized in ADHD, anxiety, adoption, depression, grief and loss, and trauma.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults who are looking for help managing intense feelings, navigating social relationships, improving self-esteem, and decrease anxiety. During the therapeutic process, clients learn how to identify, express, and cope with their emotions improving their overall sense of happiness. When working with children, I provide parent support and is an integral part of the therapeutic process. I have providing individual and family therapy in Raleigh since 2001.
(919) 702-7906 View (919) 702-7906
Photo of Glenda Clare, PhD, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Glenda Clare
Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
Is Parenting Feeling Tough Right Now? Being a parent can be great, but it comes with challenges, especially if you're navigating adoption, a blended family, or caring for a relative's child. If you're feeling like things aren't working in your family, know that it's okay to seek help. You're not alone and support is available to guide you through. Hi! I'm Dr. Glenda Clare. I am licensed in mental health and addictions counseling. I've got lived experience being the caregiver for a relative’s child. I also grew up in a blended family. Let's work together to figure out strategies that fit your family. Think Possibilities!
Is Parenting Feeling Tough Right Now? Being a parent can be great, but it comes with challenges, especially if you're navigating adoption, a blended family, or caring for a relative's child. If you're feeling like things aren't working in your family, know that it's okay to seek help. You're not alone and support is available to guide you through. Hi! I'm Dr. Glenda Clare. I am licensed in mental health and addictions counseling. I've got lived experience being the caregiver for a relative’s child. I also grew up in a blended family. Let's work together to figure out strategies that fit your family. Think Possibilities!
(984) 207-1082 View (984) 207-1082
Photo of Sally F Maslansky, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sally F Maslansky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510  (Online Only)
I often work with parenting and adoption issues.
Therapy at its best is a unique collaboration between therapist and client. I offer my education, training and experience along with an open mind and attuned communication to assist my clients' in exploring the issues they bring to therapy. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with adults, couples, adolescents and families working on interpersonal and intra-personal issues. I am committed to nurturing my client's personal growth and development towards achieving a deeper sense of self knowing and the ability to live an integrated, emotionally regulated and balanced life.
I often work with parenting and adoption issues.
Therapy at its best is a unique collaboration between therapist and client. I offer my education, training and experience along with an open mind and attuned communication to assist my clients' in exploring the issues they bring to therapy. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with adults, couples, adolescents and families working on interpersonal and intra-personal issues. I am committed to nurturing my client's personal growth and development towards achieving a deeper sense of self knowing and the ability to live an integrated, emotionally regulated and balanced life.
(919) 714-4139 View (919) 714-4139
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.