Adoption Therapists in New York, NY

Kimberly Chu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyaD, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
Specializations: anxiety, depression, parenting, divorce, body image, eating concerns, aggression, identity (gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity/culture), adoption, non-traditional families, childhood trauma and abuse, children and families living with chronic illness, transition from adolescence to adulthood, 12 step recovery/addiction.
Kimberly Chu has worked with adults, children and adolescents in individual, couples, family, and group therapies for over twenty years. She works both intensively (multiple sessions per week) and in weekly sessions. The issues bringing a person or family to treatment are never easy, nor simple. Curiosity, exploration, understanding, and change can be challenging and elusive at times. It is essential that your therapist respect you and the process you are beginning to change yourself and your life. Kimberly's approach to therapy is focused on respect for the individual and the difficulties that lead a person to seek help.
Specializations: anxiety, depression, parenting, divorce, body image, eating concerns, aggression, identity (gender, sexuality, race/ethnicity/culture), adoption, non-traditional families, childhood trauma and abuse, children and families living with chronic illness, transition from adolescence to adulthood, 12 step recovery/addiction.
Kimberly Chu has worked with adults, children and adolescents in individual, couples, family, and group therapies for over twenty years. She works both intensively (multiple sessions per week) and in weekly sessions. The issues bringing a person or family to treatment are never easy, nor simple. Curiosity, exploration, understanding, and change can be challenging and elusive at times. It is essential that your therapist respect you and the process you are beginning to change yourself and your life. Kimberly's approach to therapy is focused on respect for the individual and the difficulties that lead a person to seek help.
(212) 362-2838 View (212) 362-2838
Photo of Gail Kinn - Gail Kinn Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gail Kinn Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have special expertise in Adult ADHD and adoption (author, “Be My Baby: Talking About Adoption”).
Building our trusting relationship is the surest way I know to reduce your anxiety, depression, and quiet those punishing parts of yourself that seem to threaten your confidence and safety. We work together to make room to experience yourself in new ways, to feel the ground under your feet. Our relationship opens pathways to your life to feel your better self. Doubt, fear and depression will be lessened. Relationships will evolve, and options will open. We will talk and challenge automatic thoughts. We will also use your bodily experience to bypass the loops of stories stored in your critical mind.
I have special expertise in Adult ADHD and adoption (author, “Be My Baby: Talking About Adoption”).
Building our trusting relationship is the surest way I know to reduce your anxiety, depression, and quiet those punishing parts of yourself that seem to threaten your confidence and safety. We work together to make room to experience yourself in new ways, to feel the ground under your feet. Our relationship opens pathways to your life to feel your better self. Doubt, fear and depression will be lessened. Relationships will evolve, and options will open. We will talk and challenge automatic thoughts. We will also use your bodily experience to bypass the loops of stories stored in your critical mind.
(917) 970-7494 View (917) 970-7494
Photo of Elizabeth M. Studwell, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Elizabeth M. Studwell
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I have a personal connection to growing a family through nontraditional means ( adoption, IVF, etc) and am a non-native Spanish speaker that understands identity complexities.
My passion is helping people reach their own goals as they navigate life’s many transitions and to foster new ways of approaching, understanding and responding even in the hard times. We can grow a great deal in the midst of change and challenge. We all deserve support in life’s complex moments, whether that be starting high school, retiring, becoming a new parent, getting married, changing jobs, having to or getting to do IVF, or heading off to college. My goal is to support meaningful shift through slowing down and taking a deeper dive to increase self-knowledge, self-compassion and growth.
I have a personal connection to growing a family through nontraditional means ( adoption, IVF, etc) and am a non-native Spanish speaker that understands identity complexities.
My passion is helping people reach their own goals as they navigate life’s many transitions and to foster new ways of approaching, understanding and responding even in the hard times. We can grow a great deal in the midst of change and challenge. We all deserve support in life’s complex moments, whether that be starting high school, retiring, becoming a new parent, getting married, changing jobs, having to or getting to do IVF, or heading off to college. My goal is to support meaningful shift through slowing down and taking a deeper dive to increase self-knowledge, self-compassion and growth.
(646) 307-1931 View (646) 307-1931
Photo of Christine Tangel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Tangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I can also provide short term (1-3 sessions) issue-based support when you need answers to parenting, adoption or family dynamics.
Family life can be complicated. From deciding to become a parent or struggling with creating a family to losing relationships or loved ones, and all of the ups & downs in between; you need a place to process the complexities that arise. Do you or your child need support to address what is troubling you? I provide a warm and trusting space to work on those challenges. I specialize in addressing issues related to adoption, attachment, grief & loss and relationship conflict in children and adults. I understand the importance connection and safety have on healing.
I can also provide short term (1-3 sessions) issue-based support when you need answers to parenting, adoption or family dynamics.
Family life can be complicated. From deciding to become a parent or struggling with creating a family to losing relationships or loved ones, and all of the ups & downs in between; you need a place to process the complexities that arise. Do you or your child need support to address what is troubling you? I provide a warm and trusting space to work on those challenges. I specialize in addressing issues related to adoption, attachment, grief & loss and relationship conflict in children and adults. I understand the importance connection and safety have on healing.
(917) 383-0361 View (917) 383-0361
Photo of Joseph Toles, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Joseph Toles
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with pre-teens, teens, and young adults who need social-emotional support but aren't receiving it from those around them. Many clients have experienced trauma, particularly from foster care or adoption, and struggle with identity, trust, and emotional regulation. My personal experience growing up in foster care and adopting eight boys gives me an empathetic understanding of my clients’ challenges, allowing me to build trust and offer meaningful support. I also guide parents whose children are struggling with drugs or alcohol, helping families improve communication, rebuild trust, and create coping strategies.
I work with pre-teens, teens, and young adults who need social-emotional support but aren't receiving it from those around them. Many clients have experienced trauma, particularly from foster care or adoption, and struggle with identity, trust, and emotional regulation. My personal experience growing up in foster care and adopting eight boys gives me an empathetic understanding of my clients’ challenges, allowing me to build trust and offer meaningful support. I also guide parents whose children are struggling with drugs or alcohol, helping families improve communication, rebuild trust, and create coping strategies.
(718) 866-4272 View (718) 866-4272
Photo of Jill Plevan, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Plevan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Making change takes intention and courage. Finding meaning in everyday life and living in a way that we yearn to is no small task! I work with adults who wish to create change and feel happier in their lives. This could mean issues surrounding transition into adulthood, dating and relationships, substance use, school and professional goals, life transitions, work/family balance, parenting, long term relationships with partners. I have expertise in supporting family members of a loved one struggling with addiction. I also have an interest in family members touched by adoption.
Making change takes intention and courage. Finding meaning in everyday life and living in a way that we yearn to is no small task! I work with adults who wish to create change and feel happier in their lives. This could mean issues surrounding transition into adulthood, dating and relationships, substance use, school and professional goals, life transitions, work/family balance, parenting, long term relationships with partners. I have expertise in supporting family members of a loved one struggling with addiction. I also have an interest in family members touched by adoption.
(332) 334-6836 View (332) 334-6836
Photo of Anne F Malave, PhD, Psychologist
Anne F Malave
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I help with all family building choices: fertility treatments, 3rd party reproduction (egg/sperm/embryo/ surrogacy), adoption, childfree & with parenting, working with donor conceived persons & people who have been adopted.
Are you feeling isolated, alone, overwhelmed by life's difficulties? Psychotherapy may help. I am a clinical psychologist-psychoanalyst with an interactive and pragmatic approach to life's problems and challenges. I help people develop strengths, cultivate relationships, and build resilience. I help people with anxiety, depression, mood and adjustment disorders, and relationship issues, etc. and I also specialize in (in)fertility, adoption, all areas of family building, eating disorders and addictions. I teach, supervise, consult, write, and actively participate in my professional communities. I am British, living in US since 1976.
I help with all family building choices: fertility treatments, 3rd party reproduction (egg/sperm/embryo/ surrogacy), adoption, childfree & with parenting, working with donor conceived persons & people who have been adopted.
Are you feeling isolated, alone, overwhelmed by life's difficulties? Psychotherapy may help. I am a clinical psychologist-psychoanalyst with an interactive and pragmatic approach to life's problems and challenges. I help people develop strengths, cultivate relationships, and build resilience. I help people with anxiety, depression, mood and adjustment disorders, and relationship issues, etc. and I also specialize in (in)fertility, adoption, all areas of family building, eating disorders and addictions. I teach, supervise, consult, write, and actively participate in my professional communities. I am British, living in US since 1976.
(646) 374-4085 View (646) 374-4085
Photo of Ciara McLaughlin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ciara McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
If you or your child are dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship issues, school problems, life transitions, adoption or attachment related issues, impacts of trauma, or depression, I'm listening. There is hope and a way forward. I offer a safe, supportive space to deepen self-awareness, build empowerment, and identify and alleviate sources of distress or pain to create positive, lasting change. I welcome and work with clients from all backgrounds and enjoy working with students, adults, creative types, and people of color. I also specialize in working with adoptees and their families as I am personally connected to adoption.
If you or your child are dealing with anxiety, stress, relationship issues, school problems, life transitions, adoption or attachment related issues, impacts of trauma, or depression, I'm listening. There is hope and a way forward. I offer a safe, supportive space to deepen self-awareness, build empowerment, and identify and alleviate sources of distress or pain to create positive, lasting change. I welcome and work with clients from all backgrounds and enjoy working with students, adults, creative types, and people of color. I also specialize in working with adoptees and their families as I am personally connected to adoption.
(646) 762-9014 View (646) 762-9014
Photo of Sarah Frey, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Sarah Frey
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Thank you for taking the time to check out my profile! Are you struggling with adoption or attachment related issues, relationship conflicts, grief, anxiety, work struggles or just general life things? I strive to create a warm, compassionate space where client's feel comfortable exploring and challenging their feelings and behavior patterns while facilitating growth and healing . We all need a space and a person to help us work through our concerns. Let me be that person.
Thank you for taking the time to check out my profile! Are you struggling with adoption or attachment related issues, relationship conflicts, grief, anxiety, work struggles or just general life things? I strive to create a warm, compassionate space where client's feel comfortable exploring and challenging their feelings and behavior patterns while facilitating growth and healing . We all need a space and a person to help us work through our concerns. Let me be that person.
(332) 239-2202 View (332) 239-2202
Photo of Sara Lavner, MA, NCPsyA, LP, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Sara Lavner
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MA, NCPsyA, LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
I have been working for many years as a drama therapist and psychoanalyst and have helped people live more fulfilling lives. I work with individuals and couples in Greenwich Village. I am an expert on adoption issues but also work in all areas. I work well with couples and find all of my work interesting and exciting. Sometimes I use the drama therapy in combination with psychoanalysis and at other times, I just use the techniques of psychoanalysis. It will all depend on the patient.
I have been working for many years as a drama therapist and psychoanalyst and have helped people live more fulfilling lives. I work with individuals and couples in Greenwich Village. I am an expert on adoption issues but also work in all areas. I work well with couples and find all of my work interesting and exciting. Sometimes I use the drama therapy in combination with psychoanalysis and at other times, I just use the techniques of psychoanalysis. It will all depend on the patient.
(646) 576-7787 View (646) 576-7787
Photo of Shulamit Rishik, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shulamit Rishik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025
Whether you are new to therapy or have worked with therapists before, I will create a safe space for you where we will identify, address, & resolve your issues. I have 34+ years of clinical experience. You will find me understanding & level-headed as we explore the origins of your distress. I am trained as an Adult, Child, & Adolescent psychotherapist. I have expertise both professionally and personally with complex emotional issues surrounding Adoption (see bit.ly/3GQrG2L), problems of Adolescence, Parenting, and School problems. I am a certified psychoanalyst. The approach I offer produces lasting change.
Whether you are new to therapy or have worked with therapists before, I will create a safe space for you where we will identify, address, & resolve your issues. I have 34+ years of clinical experience. You will find me understanding & level-headed as we explore the origins of your distress. I am trained as an Adult, Child, & Adolescent psychotherapist. I have expertise both professionally and personally with complex emotional issues surrounding Adoption (see bit.ly/3GQrG2L), problems of Adolescence, Parenting, and School problems. I am a certified psychoanalyst. The approach I offer produces lasting change.
(646) 699-3856 View (646) 699-3856
Photo of Silvia Fiammenghi, PsyD, RYT, Psychologist
Silvia Fiammenghi
Psychologist, PsyD, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I see therapy as a powerful two-person process of discovery and acceptance. In session we laugh, we cry, we understand and we grow. We read over the past, stay rooted in the present, and look forward to a more balanced and fulfilling future. My integrative approach to treatment is rooted in interpersonal psychodynamic theory, but also drives from other models to meet each person's unique needs. My areas of expertise include trauma work, college mental health, issues related to international relocation, cultural integration, study abroad, body-mind balance, and adoption.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. I see therapy as a powerful two-person process of discovery and acceptance. In session we laugh, we cry, we understand and we grow. We read over the past, stay rooted in the present, and look forward to a more balanced and fulfilling future. My integrative approach to treatment is rooted in interpersonal psychodynamic theory, but also drives from other models to meet each person's unique needs. My areas of expertise include trauma work, college mental health, issues related to international relocation, cultural integration, study abroad, body-mind balance, and adoption.
(718) 306-6510 View (718) 306-6510
Photo of Barbara Freedgood, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Freedgood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
In addition to adoption support groups, I specialize in working with couples to resolve differences and move forward with their lives and relationships.
People enter therapy looking for results and relief. I like to identify issues quickly and focus on alleviating distress. In addition to couples counseling and general practice with individuals, I run support groups for adoptive parents. Parenting is a challenge. Adoptive parenting has additional challenges. My groups offer a safe space to explore issues and receive support. I take great pleasure in engaging people and offering an environment that allows people to arrive at unique solutions to their lives. I work with individuals, couples and groups.
In addition to adoption support groups, I specialize in working with couples to resolve differences and move forward with their lives and relationships.
People enter therapy looking for results and relief. I like to identify issues quickly and focus on alleviating distress. In addition to couples counseling and general practice with individuals, I run support groups for adoptive parents. Parenting is a challenge. Adoptive parenting has additional challenges. My groups offer a safe space to explore issues and receive support. I take great pleasure in engaging people and offering an environment that allows people to arrive at unique solutions to their lives. I work with individuals, couples and groups.
(646) 490-9946 View (646) 490-9946
Photo of Amy Silverman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Silverman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
Are you looking for a therapist who understands the unique challenges inherent in family formation? Are you questioning how and whether to become parents? Are you in a foster or adoptive family and hope your therapist understands some of the issues specific to your situation? Are there missing pieces in your family history or have you learned new information via DNA testing? My practice is informed by my long-time focus on adoption. My focus is on understanding your story, connecting with you, recognizing your strengths, and helping you to determine how to tackle your challenges.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands the unique challenges inherent in family formation? Are you questioning how and whether to become parents? Are you in a foster or adoptive family and hope your therapist understands some of the issues specific to your situation? Are there missing pieces in your family history or have you learned new information via DNA testing? My practice is informed by my long-time focus on adoption. My focus is on understanding your story, connecting with you, recognizing your strengths, and helping you to determine how to tackle your challenges.
(914) 240-1127 View (914) 240-1127
Photo of Lauren Kraver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Kraver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025
I also have extensive experience working with birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive parents throughout the adoption process and provide adoption counseling for individuals and couples.
Feeling overwhelmed or stressed and don’t know where to begin? Life changes are hard and you’re not alone. If you are stuck or there’s a pattern you can’t break, I’m only a phone call away. Whether you’re faced with a big life decision, struggling with anxiety or depression, or just need someone in your corner - I’m here to help. Or, maybe you are deciding if you want to add to your family and have questions on what that looks like. Reaching out is one of the hardest parts about starting therapy and you deserve to be heard. You deserve someone who will listen and help you consider your options in an open-minded way.
I also have extensive experience working with birth parents, adoptees, and adoptive parents throughout the adoption process and provide adoption counseling for individuals and couples.
Feeling overwhelmed or stressed and don’t know where to begin? Life changes are hard and you’re not alone. If you are stuck or there’s a pattern you can’t break, I’m only a phone call away. Whether you’re faced with a big life decision, struggling with anxiety or depression, or just need someone in your corner - I’m here to help. Or, maybe you are deciding if you want to add to your family and have questions on what that looks like. Reaching out is one of the hardest parts about starting therapy and you deserve to be heard. You deserve someone who will listen and help you consider your options in an open-minded way.
(914) 380-7920 View (914) 380-7920
Photo of Jayme Palladino, LMHC, Counselor
Jayme Palladino
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10008
I enjoy working with individuals around issues of depression/anxiety, feelings of abandonment, adults impacted by adoption, relationships/family issues, adjustment/transitions, and trauma.
Accepting New Clients and have immediate openings available (Monday, Tuesday afternoon, Thursday and Saturday mornings).
I enjoy working with individuals around issues of depression/anxiety, feelings of abandonment, adults impacted by adoption, relationships/family issues, adjustment/transitions, and trauma.
Accepting New Clients and have immediate openings available (Monday, Tuesday afternoon, Thursday and Saturday mornings).
(585) 318-8723 View (585) 318-8723
Photo of Kiera Liantonio, LMHC, Counselor
Kiera Liantonio
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with older teens and adults and my main practice focus is on gender dysphoria and struggles around adoption for adoptee, adopter, and/or biofamily.
Hello brave human! My name is Kiera and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NY and I am so excited to begin this journey of healing with you. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or 100th time in treatment, your strengths have brought you here! It is such an overwhelming and vulnerable process reaching out for therapy, so the fact you've found my page is already a step in the right direction. My main belief when it comes to treatment is that the client is the expert and that my role in the therapy space is to offer support, empathy, understanding, and help clients to see different perspectives they overlook
I work with older teens and adults and my main practice focus is on gender dysphoria and struggles around adoption for adoptee, adopter, and/or biofamily.
Hello brave human! My name is Kiera and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NY and I am so excited to begin this journey of healing with you. Whether this is your first time looking for a therapist or 100th time in treatment, your strengths have brought you here! It is such an overwhelming and vulnerable process reaching out for therapy, so the fact you've found my page is already a step in the right direction. My main belief when it comes to treatment is that the client is the expert and that my role in the therapy space is to offer support, empathy, understanding, and help clients to see different perspectives they overlook
(516) 552-8210 View (516) 552-8210
Photo of Robyn DeRespinis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn DeRespinis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I specialize in working with adults over 18 who are dealing with anxiety, trauma, or adoption-related concerns.
Providing my clients with a comfortable, open, non-judgmental environment is key to developing a trusting relationship. I have found it to be so important for my clients to recognize and build upon their own strengths. In our work together we can establish definable goals for treatment and uncover various patterns that developed over time. After obtaining a Master's Degree from Columbia University, I had the opportunity to work in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I started my own practice in 2014 and have owned and run a group practice since 2016.
I specialize in working with adults over 18 who are dealing with anxiety, trauma, or adoption-related concerns.
Providing my clients with a comfortable, open, non-judgmental environment is key to developing a trusting relationship. I have found it to be so important for my clients to recognize and build upon their own strengths. In our work together we can establish definable goals for treatment and uncover various patterns that developed over time. After obtaining a Master's Degree from Columbia University, I had the opportunity to work in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I started my own practice in 2014 and have owned and run a group practice since 2016.
(848) 212-8182 View (848) 212-8182
Photo of Heidi Brody, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Brody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! I am currently open to new clients. The clients I see are adults who are looking to make changes in their lives. I work with people who are looking to build a family and dealing with infertility and adoption process. Some are struggling with life transitions, such as work, family or relationships or grief and loss. All these issues may increase stressors, anxiety and depression. I believe there are many things in our lives that we may not be able to control but we can develop the skills to control how we react to life circumstances. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy.
Welcome! I am currently open to new clients. The clients I see are adults who are looking to make changes in their lives. I work with people who are looking to build a family and dealing with infertility and adoption process. Some are struggling with life transitions, such as work, family or relationships or grief and loss. All these issues may increase stressors, anxiety and depression. I believe there are many things in our lives that we may not be able to control but we can develop the skills to control how we react to life circumstances. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy.
(914) 359-3970 View (914) 359-3970
Photo of Kaitlin Incorvia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlin Incorvia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in foster care, adoption, childhood trauma, attachment, and dissociation.
Do seemingly simple things in your life cause you to react very strongly? Or have you ever felt stuck in a cycle of relationships that you are not proud of? Or maybe you just can’t let things go? Trauma therapy can help! Therapy is hard work, but the commitment to yourself and living a life you are proud of is life-changing!
I specialize in foster care, adoption, childhood trauma, attachment, and dissociation.
Do seemingly simple things in your life cause you to react very strongly? Or have you ever felt stuck in a cycle of relationships that you are not proud of? Or maybe you just can’t let things go? Trauma therapy can help! Therapy is hard work, but the commitment to yourself and living a life you are proud of is life-changing!
(716) 281-1623 View (716) 281-1623
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.