Adoption Therapists in Murrysville, PA
Kim has personal and professional experience and training to work with families formed through foster and kinship care and adoption.
Do you want meaningful relationships? Kim has a strong desire to work with those who want to improve their relationships and lifestyle. She assists clients to improve their mental, physical, spiritual and sexual safety and security.
Kim has personal and professional experience and training to work with families formed through foster and kinship care and adoption.
Do you want meaningful relationships? Kim has a strong desire to work with those who want to improve their relationships and lifestyle. She assists clients to improve their mental, physical, spiritual and sexual safety and security.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I believe that every person, no matter the age, is capable learning new ways to express their emotions, navigate life's struggles, and work toward goals to live the best life possible. With over 10 years in the counseling field, I have learned that individuals and families who choose to include me in their journey will be willing to use creativity, personal strength, dedication and partnership as we create a wellness plan, establish new routines and celebrate accomplishments.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I believe that every person, no matter the age, is capable learning new ways to express their emotions, navigate life's struggles, and work toward goals to live the best life possible. With over 10 years in the counseling field, I have learned that individuals and families who choose to include me in their journey will be willing to use creativity, personal strength, dedication and partnership as we create a wellness plan, establish new routines and celebrate accomplishments.
Are you feeling lost or alone? Do you struggle with emotions of sadness, anxiety, or grief? Have you been physically or sexually abused or a victim of domestic violence? Maybe, you're feeling stuck or are struggling with a life transition and don't know where to turn? It can be hard to ask for help, but a little help is often what we need in order to connect with our own inner capacity to cope and heal. I have experience helping children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly to manage life's difficulties and work toward health, happiness, and acceptance.
Are you feeling lost or alone? Do you struggle with emotions of sadness, anxiety, or grief? Have you been physically or sexually abused or a victim of domestic violence? Maybe, you're feeling stuck or are struggling with a life transition and don't know where to turn? It can be hard to ask for help, but a little help is often what we need in order to connect with our own inner capacity to cope and heal. I have experience helping children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly to manage life's difficulties and work toward health, happiness, and acceptance.
I also have significant experience both professionally and personally working with families and children impacted by adoption.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma as well as concerns related to depression, loss and grief, and anxiety. As a clinician, I hold safety as a non-negotiable imperative for the therapy space to be productive. I also encourage my clients to use the safe therapy space to lean into the discomfort required to make the changes that they wish to see in their lives.
I also have significant experience both professionally and personally working with families and children impacted by adoption.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who have experienced trauma as well as concerns related to depression, loss and grief, and anxiety. As a clinician, I hold safety as a non-negotiable imperative for the therapy space to be productive. I also encourage my clients to use the safe therapy space to lean into the discomfort required to make the changes that they wish to see in their lives.
I believe in a strength based, client centered approach. Reaching out for help and support can be difficult. I help to establish a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, providing a safe space to be open and honest in therapy. Self-awareness and self-care are vital to an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. My goal is to foster an individual’s positive growth throughout the therapy process. Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing techniques and solution focused therapy interventions are utilized throughout therapy. Faith-based therapy is provided for anyone who desires this approach.
I believe in a strength based, client centered approach. Reaching out for help and support can be difficult. I help to establish a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, providing a safe space to be open and honest in therapy. Self-awareness and self-care are vital to an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. My goal is to foster an individual’s positive growth throughout the therapy process. Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing techniques and solution focused therapy interventions are utilized throughout therapy. Faith-based therapy is provided for anyone who desires this approach.
As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 40 years experience of working with families and individuals of all ages, I find that the most effective approach is one that is strengths-based with a strong emphasis on helping clients solve the problems that bring them to me for therapy and also on helping them develop powerful resiliency characteristics that allow for future problem-solving, conflict resolution, goal-attainment, wellness, and life satisfaction. My ideal client is one who likes to learn. Trauma survivors, in particular, do well with this approach.
As a licensed clinical social worker with more than 40 years experience of working with families and individuals of all ages, I find that the most effective approach is one that is strengths-based with a strong emphasis on helping clients solve the problems that bring them to me for therapy and also on helping them develop powerful resiliency characteristics that allow for future problem-solving, conflict resolution, goal-attainment, wellness, and life satisfaction. My ideal client is one who likes to learn. Trauma survivors, in particular, do well with this approach.
One of my working assumptions is that you truly matter (just as you are), and I hope you feel appropriately supported in working toward and realizing your goals (who you're becoming).
My approach is collaborative, authentic, and eclectic; incorporates a holistic view; is tailored to your strengths and current needs; includes asking tough questions, humor, and direct communication; and invites (optional) "therapy homework" between sessions.
This style is not for everyone, yet I hear time and again that those open to working together experience amazing transformation and deep healing.
One of my working assumptions is that you truly matter (just as you are), and I hope you feel appropriately supported in working toward and realizing your goals (who you're becoming).
My approach is collaborative, authentic, and eclectic; incorporates a holistic view; is tailored to your strengths and current needs; includes asking tough questions, humor, and direct communication; and invites (optional) "therapy homework" between sessions.
This style is not for everyone, yet I hear time and again that those open to working together experience amazing transformation and deep healing.
Have you been wounded by church hurt, childhood, sexual, narcissistic, emotional, or spiritual abuse, or relationship abuse, or other experiences that rocked your sense of safety or trust? Or, have you experienced circumstances that you didn't expect to be hard but found yourself deeply affected?
Do you long to find a counselor who not only shares and respects your Christian faith but is also specialized in understanding how trauma affects the nervous system and how EMDR can be used to effectively help you heal while also taking into account your personal needs and specifics so you don't get a one-sized fits all approach?
Have you been wounded by church hurt, childhood, sexual, narcissistic, emotional, or spiritual abuse, or relationship abuse, or other experiences that rocked your sense of safety or trust? Or, have you experienced circumstances that you didn't expect to be hard but found yourself deeply affected?
Do you long to find a counselor who not only shares and respects your Christian faith but is also specialized in understanding how trauma affects the nervous system and how EMDR can be used to effectively help you heal while also taking into account your personal needs and specifics so you don't get a one-sized fits all approach?
I specialize in helping couples improve communication, heal from infidelity, and deepen emotional and physical intimacy. Whether you're navigating a rough patch or seeking to strengthen your connection, I offer a supportive space to explore relationship dynamics and rebuild trust.
I also work with individuals facing relationship challenges, anxiety, and life transitions. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of how to prioritize their own needs. Together, we work to clarify values, improve emotional awareness, and create meaningful change.
I specialize in helping couples improve communication, heal from infidelity, and deepen emotional and physical intimacy. Whether you're navigating a rough patch or seeking to strengthen your connection, I offer a supportive space to explore relationship dynamics and rebuild trust.
I also work with individuals facing relationship challenges, anxiety, and life transitions. Many of my clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of how to prioritize their own needs. Together, we work to clarify values, improve emotional awareness, and create meaningful change.
As times in our world are certain, change is not always easy to maneuver alone. Knowing that a supportive counselor is available can ease your worries of the unknown. I have cared for many clients over the years to support them with a kind and gentle approach. Life can be complicated. With the individualized support that I will provide, we can walk this path at your pace to achieve your goals.
As times in our world are certain, change is not always easy to maneuver alone. Knowing that a supportive counselor is available can ease your worries of the unknown. I have cared for many clients over the years to support them with a kind and gentle approach. Life can be complicated. With the individualized support that I will provide, we can walk this path at your pace to achieve your goals.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed and stuck with all the demands and stress in life? My belief in therapy is based on the principle that we as humans are always changing and growing. Throughout life, we all face obstacles or challenges that we must work through in order to reach our optimal self. We learn new things and face new challenges daily. My goal is to process all experiences in order to and identify how they impact the present and better the future. I used trauma-informed cognitive and relational approaches to shape positive thinking and increase awareness.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed and stuck with all the demands and stress in life? My belief in therapy is based on the principle that we as humans are always changing and growing. Throughout life, we all face obstacles or challenges that we must work through in order to reach our optimal self. We learn new things and face new challenges daily. My goal is to process all experiences in order to and identify how they impact the present and better the future. I used trauma-informed cognitive and relational approaches to shape positive thinking and increase awareness.
More Therapists Nearby
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
Great to meet you! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience working with clients to help them feel empowered to make positive changes in their lives. It is important to me to make you feel heard and not judged. I will help you stay accountable to your desired goals and walk beside you on this journey.
Great to meet you! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 12 years of experience working with clients to help them feel empowered to make positive changes in their lives. It is important to me to make you feel heard and not judged. I will help you stay accountable to your desired goals and walk beside you on this journey.
Daytime availability only. Erika is an experienced psychotherapist with a diverse background in the mental health field. She has treated a range of clients such as toddlers, school-age children, teenagers, children in foster care, adoptees, college-age students, and adults in counseling settings. Erika works with both adults and children on healing the wounds that trauma has created in their lives, as well as those experiencing other symptoms that are impacting their lives. When working with clients, Erika utilizes an integrative approach to best meet the needs of the client. This therapeutic space is LGBTQIA+-affirming.
Daytime availability only. Erika is an experienced psychotherapist with a diverse background in the mental health field. She has treated a range of clients such as toddlers, school-age children, teenagers, children in foster care, adoptees, college-age students, and adults in counseling settings. Erika works with both adults and children on healing the wounds that trauma has created in their lives, as well as those experiencing other symptoms that are impacting their lives. When working with clients, Erika utilizes an integrative approach to best meet the needs of the client. This therapeutic space is LGBTQIA+-affirming.
I am also an adoption competent therapist via NTI training.
Currently wait list for therapy. Private pay Adult ADHD evaluations now. I provide therapy for anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, sleep difficulties, & neurodivergence. I offer in-person therapy in Exton, PA, & telehealth across Pennsylvania & PSYPACT states. I also have specialized experience working with adoptees/adoptive families & understand how identity, attachment, & early loss shape emotional regulation. My approach is research-based & grounded in attachment & nervous system science. I integrate evidence-based methods to provide thoughtful, personalized care. I also offer private pay online ADHD evaluations for adults.
I am also an adoption competent therapist via NTI training.
Currently wait list for therapy. Private pay Adult ADHD evaluations now. I provide therapy for anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, sleep difficulties, & neurodivergence. I offer in-person therapy in Exton, PA, & telehealth across Pennsylvania & PSYPACT states. I also have specialized experience working with adoptees/adoptive families & understand how identity, attachment, & early loss shape emotional regulation. My approach is research-based & grounded in attachment & nervous system science. I integrate evidence-based methods to provide thoughtful, personalized care. I also offer private pay online ADHD evaluations for adults.
Ellie Mental Health of Monroeville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, (PA), (OH)
Monroeville, PA 15146
Starting a healing journey is easier said than done. Everyone has their own experiences and can provide examples of how life can throw curveballs. It’s important to remember that you do not need to let these experiences define who you are or what you’re capable of. Processing through these experiences is what my role is, as I am here to encourage you to be your best self. We will work together to create realistic goals that allow your light to shine bright. Anything is possible, and I am here to guide your path, which acknowledges the strengths that you already possess.
Starting a healing journey is easier said than done. Everyone has their own experiences and can provide examples of how life can throw curveballs. It’s important to remember that you do not need to let these experiences define who you are or what you’re capable of. Processing through these experiences is what my role is, as I am here to encourage you to be your best self. We will work together to create realistic goals that allow your light to shine bright. Anything is possible, and I am here to guide your path, which acknowledges the strengths that you already possess.
You're busy. You're pulled in a million different directions and you have a million more responsibilities. Sometimes you have someone to share this with, and sometimes not. Sometimes you feel lost under all of the pressure to "be better." I'm here to help. Let's peel away the layers of stress, grief, trauma, and pressure to reveal the very best version of you. Let's take journey of self-discovery together. I'm here to listen, support, and help.
You're busy. You're pulled in a million different directions and you have a million more responsibilities. Sometimes you have someone to share this with, and sometimes not. Sometimes you feel lost under all of the pressure to "be better." I'm here to help. Let's peel away the layers of stress, grief, trauma, and pressure to reveal the very best version of you. Let's take journey of self-discovery together. I'm here to listen, support, and help.
Hello and welcome! I am glad you're here. Adjusting to the stressors that life is sending your way can feel like an isolating (and overwhelming) process. Sometimes it is hard to know what next steps to take. Sometimes it is scary to try new ways of being. Sometimes we get in our own way. And sometimes it is good to talk about these things with someone who is on your side.
Hello and welcome! I am glad you're here. Adjusting to the stressors that life is sending your way can feel like an isolating (and overwhelming) process. Sometimes it is hard to know what next steps to take. Sometimes it is scary to try new ways of being. Sometimes we get in our own way. And sometimes it is good to talk about these things with someone who is on your side.
The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Are you looking for support in the areas of adoption, foster care, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss, pregnancy decision making, or a related area?
Erika Schmitt has been at The Children's Home since 2006 and has provided counseling since that time. She has experience working with all races as well as LGBTQIA+ population. She can see clients virtually or in person. She especially enjoys counseling in the realm of infertility, pregnancy, donor conception, grief, and reproductive trauma.
Are you looking for support in the areas of adoption, foster care, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss, pregnancy decision making, or a related area?
Erika Schmitt has been at The Children's Home since 2006 and has provided counseling since that time. She has experience working with all races as well as LGBTQIA+ population. She can see clients virtually or in person. She especially enjoys counseling in the realm of infertility, pregnancy, donor conception, grief, and reproductive trauma.
As someone who is also neurodivergent, I help my clients learn how neurodiversity shows up for them in their spaces. I also support clients with their adoptee journey in whatever that means for them. I often work with clients who are trying to make sense and navigate their complex experiences as an adoptee. Sometimes, this looks like helping clients learn to be authentically themselves even when their childhood/environment require(d) them to assimilate. My work also extends to members of the LGBTQIA+ community in providing validating/ affirming care. I am interested in helping you find your voice even in the discomfort of others.
As someone who is also neurodivergent, I help my clients learn how neurodiversity shows up for them in their spaces. I also support clients with their adoptee journey in whatever that means for them. I often work with clients who are trying to make sense and navigate their complex experiences as an adoptee. Sometimes, this looks like helping clients learn to be authentically themselves even when their childhood/environment require(d) them to assimilate. My work also extends to members of the LGBTQIA+ community in providing validating/ affirming care. I am interested in helping you find your voice even in the discomfort of others.
See more therapy options for Murrysville
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Murrysville
- Allison Park
- Bethel Park
- Gibsonia
- Glenshaw
- Greensburg
- Irwin
- Latrobe
- Monroeville
- Mount Lebanon
- Pittsburgh
- Squirrel Hill
- Upper Saint Clair
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.