Adoption Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Debrah Anne Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MHL, LAMFT
Debrah Anne Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MHL, LAMFT
Online Only
I help clients heal the loss associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion.
Or maybe you're in a relationship where you're just not connecting. You seem to "speak" two different love languages. Couples therapy will not just help you have a happier, more fullfilling relationship, it will also heal many of your childhood wounds. I work with couples to increase intimacy, improve communication and learn to have hard conversations.
I help clients heal the loss associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion.
Or maybe you're in a relationship where you're just not connecting. You seem to "speak" two different love languages. Couples therapy will not just help you have a happier, more fullfilling relationship, it will also heal many of your childhood wounds. I work with couples to increase intimacy, improve communication and learn to have hard conversations.
(215) 544-2012 View (215) 544-2012
Photo of Gina Rothermel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Gina Rothermel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19110
One of my specialty areas is working with individuals in families formed through foster care, adoption, blended families, and through reproductive medicine.
I find a lot of joy in helping teens and adults discover and reach their goals. If you are someone who wants to increase self-compassion, heal from trauma, challenge long held beliefs about yourself or the world, strengthen relationships, process grief and loss, and/or find the inner strength and resources to make desired changes in your life, I might be a good fit for you. I also find it very meaningful to work with people unlearning and healing from diet culture, those taking or considering a GLP-1/GIP obesity medication and processing the complicated emotions that arise through these choices and the changes that happen.
One of my specialty areas is working with individuals in families formed through foster care, adoption, blended families, and through reproductive medicine.
I find a lot of joy in helping teens and adults discover and reach their goals. If you are someone who wants to increase self-compassion, heal from trauma, challenge long held beliefs about yourself or the world, strengthen relationships, process grief and loss, and/or find the inner strength and resources to make desired changes in your life, I might be a good fit for you. I also find it very meaningful to work with people unlearning and healing from diet culture, those taking or considering a GLP-1/GIP obesity medication and processing the complicated emotions that arise through these choices and the changes that happen.
(215) 392-6879 View (215) 392-6879
Photo of Jamie Manser, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Jamie Manser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with challenges such as individual/generational trauma, sex/intimacy, adoption/fostering, multiracial couples/families, ADHD/Autism, and LGBTQIA+ challenges.
I am a relational and systemic therapist that believes people heal in relation to one another and the systems in which they are a part of. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and draw from therapeutic models including Attachment-based, Experiential, Emotion-focused, Contextual, ESFT, and was trained in Person of the Therapist under founder Dr. Harry Aponte.
I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with challenges such as individual/generational trauma, sex/intimacy, adoption/fostering, multiracial couples/families, ADHD/Autism, and LGBTQIA+ challenges.
I am a relational and systemic therapist that believes people heal in relation to one another and the systems in which they are a part of. I utilize a trauma-informed approach and draw from therapeutic models including Attachment-based, Experiential, Emotion-focused, Contextual, ESFT, and was trained in Person of the Therapist under founder Dr. Harry Aponte.
(215) 918-4612 View (215) 918-4612
Photo of Stephanie Drabble, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Stephanie Drabble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Philadelphia, PA 19145
I specialize in evaluation and treatment/support to young children and parents, adoption, grief, depression, ADHD, trauma and anxiety.
I am here to support you and your children and would be honored to be your individual or family's therapist.
I specialize in evaluation and treatment/support to young children and parents, adoption, grief, depression, ADHD, trauma and anxiety.
I am here to support you and your children and would be honored to be your individual or family's therapist.
(267) 485-6758 View (267) 485-6758
Photo of Dana Spickler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Dana Spickler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I have 10 years of experience working with youth and families in the foster care system and adoption.
The goal I support with my clients is empowering them to learn the skills and techniques to be their healthiest self and live that in their own life through action.
I have 10 years of experience working with youth and families in the foster care system and adoption.
The goal I support with my clients is empowering them to learn the skills and techniques to be their healthiest self and live that in their own life through action.
(484) 946-4321 View (484) 946-4321
Photo of Angelle E. Richardson, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Angelle E. Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am an experienced and empathetic Family Therapist, specializing in adoption, foster care, trauma and grief.
I primarily use Narrative Therapy techniques to help people share their stories and gain insight into their lives. I am also trained in the Beck Model of Cognitive Therapy and in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
I am an experienced and empathetic Family Therapist, specializing in adoption, foster care, trauma and grief.
I primarily use Narrative Therapy techniques to help people share their stories and gain insight into their lives. I am also trained in the Beck Model of Cognitive Therapy and in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
(267) 477-7302 View (267) 477-7302
Photo of Samantha Ambrico-Custer, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Ambrico-Custer
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19125
My passion lies in supporting individuals living with chronic illnesses and disabilities, neurodiversity, and adoption/foster care.
I am a therapist rooted in the foundational principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), meaning I focus on the intertwining of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I bring a wealth of experience supporting neurodiverse clients and their families, those who are a part of the foster care/ adoption community, identity formation/exploration, and more.
My passion lies in supporting individuals living with chronic illnesses and disabilities, neurodiversity, and adoption/foster care.
I am a therapist rooted in the foundational principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), meaning I focus on the intertwining of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I bring a wealth of experience supporting neurodiverse clients and their families, those who are a part of the foster care/ adoption community, identity formation/exploration, and more.
(484) 309-0709 View (484) 309-0709
Photo of Melissa Dickinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Melissa Dickinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also have completed training in Adoption and Foster care (TAC), which is important to me since I am adopted.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LSCW) in Pennsylvania as well as in West Virginia. I have been working in Outpatient Mental Health Therapy for 9 years. My focus is on helping people work through difficult events that have occured in their life and helping them move through the healing process.
I also have completed training in Adoption and Foster care (TAC), which is important to me since I am adopted.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker (LSCW) in Pennsylvania as well as in West Virginia. I have been working in Outpatient Mental Health Therapy for 9 years. My focus is on helping people work through difficult events that have occured in their life and helping them move through the healing process.
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Photo of Elaine Frank, LCSW
Elaine Frank
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Parenting Services for Families and After Adoption is a prevention-early intervention psychotherapy and educational practice for families with young children, both by birth and via adoption.
In groups for adoptive parents, attachment and adoption topics are integrated into group discussions. Counseling is available for concerns about all aspects of adoption.
Parenting Services for Families and After Adoption is a prevention-early intervention psychotherapy and educational practice for families with young children, both by birth and via adoption.
In groups for adoptive parents, attachment and adoption topics are integrated into group discussions. Counseling is available for concerns about all aspects of adoption.
(215) 650-3271 View (215) 650-3271
Photo of Jade Autumn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jade Autumn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I am experienced in and passionate about working with children, students, young adults, healthcare professionals, and those impacted by foster care and adoption.
Availability NEXT week! Life is hard for most of us. Needing support does not mean you are weak or broken; it simply means you're human. The most honest thing we can do when the demands of life outweigh our capacity to cope is to reach out for support. Kudos to you for embarking on this brave (and potentially daunting) journey! As a therapist, I aim to create an emotionally safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself. I also like incorporating humor and laughter in therapy to alleviate fears and foster a sense of safety and trust. My ultimate goal is for you to feel seen, understood, and supported.
I am experienced in and passionate about working with children, students, young adults, healthcare professionals, and those impacted by foster care and adoption.
Availability NEXT week! Life is hard for most of us. Needing support does not mean you are weak or broken; it simply means you're human. The most honest thing we can do when the demands of life outweigh our capacity to cope is to reach out for support. Kudos to you for embarking on this brave (and potentially daunting) journey! As a therapist, I aim to create an emotionally safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself. I also like incorporating humor and laughter in therapy to alleviate fears and foster a sense of safety and trust. My ultimate goal is for you to feel seen, understood, and supported.
(610) 947-4743 View (610) 947-4743
Photo of Cathy Jacobsen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Cathy Jacobsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Divorce, adoption, life transition, job loss, chronic medical conditions, pregnancy issues such as infertility are often unacknowledged losses.
I am an experienced clinician and Grief and Loss Educator. While loss is an area of expertise, other specialties include anxiety disorders, depression, chronic medical conditions and aging. I offer hope when you most need it. Grief is often unacknowledged in losses such as divorce, transitions, infertility, job loss, estrangement. Grief is traumatic and transformative. There is no ‘cure’ for grief as grief is not an illness. The timeline is uniquely your own. My personal experience with loss can promote a unique bond. You will leave our first session feeling understood, more hopeful and with at least one new coping skill in hand.
Divorce, adoption, life transition, job loss, chronic medical conditions, pregnancy issues such as infertility are often unacknowledged losses.
I am an experienced clinician and Grief and Loss Educator. While loss is an area of expertise, other specialties include anxiety disorders, depression, chronic medical conditions and aging. I offer hope when you most need it. Grief is often unacknowledged in losses such as divorce, transitions, infertility, job loss, estrangement. Grief is traumatic and transformative. There is no ‘cure’ for grief as grief is not an illness. The timeline is uniquely your own. My personal experience with loss can promote a unique bond. You will leave our first session feeling understood, more hopeful and with at least one new coping skill in hand.
(267) 435-3727 View (267) 435-3727
Photo of Amanda Transue-Woolston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Transue-Woolston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My passion lies in supporting survivors, those connected to adoption, and individuals in LGBTQIA+ and other non-traditional relationships.
I work in ways that honor and respect who they are within their relationships, communities, and society as a whole (collectivist). This integrative approach ensures that therapy is both personalized and grounded in the best available practices, fostering growth and healing on an individual and relational level.
My passion lies in supporting survivors, those connected to adoption, and individuals in LGBTQIA+ and other non-traditional relationships.
I work in ways that honor and respect who they are within their relationships, communities, and society as a whole (collectivist). This integrative approach ensures that therapy is both personalized and grounded in the best available practices, fostering growth and healing on an individual and relational level.
(717) 905-0957 View (717) 905-0957
Photo of Nita Laver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Nita Laver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Whether you are dealing with problematic relationships (parent-child, family conflict, gay, lesbian, heterosexual couples), grief and loss, life transitions (infertility, adoption, divorce, re-marriage and blended families, infidelity), self-esteem issues, trauma and abuse, work concerns, or communication difficulties, help is available and solutions are within your reach.
Are you tired of repeating old patterns that are holding you back in your life? Have you been feeling angry, empty, lonely stressed out and unhappy? Are you struggling through a transition or a loss or with the legacy of emotional, physical or sexual abuse? There are times in everyone's life when reaching out for and receiving help can make a real difference in resolving problems, easing pain and living a more satisfying life. In psychotherapy a safe place will be created in which to deal with and resolve the unhappiness you are experiencing.
Whether you are dealing with problematic relationships (parent-child, family conflict, gay, lesbian, heterosexual couples), grief and loss, life transitions (infertility, adoption, divorce, re-marriage and blended families, infidelity), self-esteem issues, trauma and abuse, work concerns, or communication difficulties, help is available and solutions are within your reach.
Are you tired of repeating old patterns that are holding you back in your life? Have you been feeling angry, empty, lonely stressed out and unhappy? Are you struggling through a transition or a loss or with the legacy of emotional, physical or sexual abuse? There are times in everyone's life when reaching out for and receiving help can make a real difference in resolving problems, easing pain and living a more satisfying life. In psychotherapy a safe place will be created in which to deal with and resolve the unhappiness you are experiencing.
(215) 798-0291 View (215) 798-0291
Photo of Elizabeth R. Weisman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Elizabeth R. Weisman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Areas of focus include:OCD, PTSD, Trauma, Addictions, LGBTQ+, Special Needs Parenting, Neurodiversity, PANS / PANDAS, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), Grief & Loss, Adoption, Relationship issues, Chronic & severe mental illness, and Mind-body Wellness.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
Areas of focus include:OCD, PTSD, Trauma, Addictions, LGBTQ+, Special Needs Parenting, Neurodiversity, PANS / PANDAS, FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), Grief & Loss, Adoption, Relationship issues, Chronic & severe mental illness, and Mind-body Wellness.
THE ONLY WAY OUT IS THROUGH (Robert Frost)... It is human to suffer and it is human to face challenges. When the suffering becomes too great, and the challenges too large, good therapy can play a key role in bringing about change. If you decide to work with me, I would consider it an honor to become part of your journey towards increased health and well-being. When you come to therapy, you will be treated with respect. I bring many years of experience as a therapist, providing both brief evidence-based interventions and long term psychodynamic approach. I will work carefully with you to define and achieve your personal goals.
(267) 202-4386 View (267) 202-4386
Photo of Irene Feigin, Psychologist, MA
Irene Feigin
Psychologist, MA
Philadelphia, PA 19115
I presented internationally and domestically on both psychological issues of immigration and international adoption.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and I have been treating clients in private practice for the past 10 years in Philadelphia. I work with adults, children and families. I support my clients and help them learn how to cope with and overcome personal challenges, build inner strength and develop self-confidence. I create therapeutic atmosphere of respect, safety, and trust. I help my clients to recognize, discover and develop their own resources. I listen and take interest in each client. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
I presented internationally and domestically on both psychological issues of immigration and international adoption.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 20 years of clinical experience and I have been treating clients in private practice for the past 10 years in Philadelphia. I work with adults, children and families. I support my clients and help them learn how to cope with and overcome personal challenges, build inner strength and develop self-confidence. I create therapeutic atmosphere of respect, safety, and trust. I help my clients to recognize, discover and develop their own resources. I listen and take interest in each client. My approach is tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
(215) 874-7287 View (215) 874-7287
Photo of Amanda Transue-Woolston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Transue-Woolston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My passion lies in supporting survivors, those connected to adoption, and individuals in LGBTQIA+ and other non-traditional relationships.
I work in ways that honor and respect who they are within their relationships, communities, and society as a whole (collectivist). This integrative approach ensures that therapy is both personalized and grounded in the best available practices, fostering growth and healing on an individual and relational level.
My passion lies in supporting survivors, those connected to adoption, and individuals in LGBTQIA+ and other non-traditional relationships.
I work in ways that honor and respect who they are within their relationships, communities, and society as a whole (collectivist). This integrative approach ensures that therapy is both personalized and grounded in the best available practices, fostering growth and healing on an individual and relational level.
(267) 728-4583 View (267) 728-4583
Photo of Teena M D Scott - TeenaTalk, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
TeenaTalk, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19131
My specialities include: Trauma, abandonment, rejection, anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, incarceration, separation, mediation, co parenting, blending unique families, LGBTQIA, adoption/foster care, identity, cultural/religious, & professional athlete stressors.
If you find yourself looking for therapy, I already know you have tried everything. Stop here and let me support you with the solutions and answers to your internal and external conflicts. You really are that powerful...use me to unlock the powers within!
My specialities include: Trauma, abandonment, rejection, anxiety, depression, conflict resolution, incarceration, separation, mediation, co parenting, blending unique families, LGBTQIA, adoption/foster care, identity, cultural/religious, & professional athlete stressors.
If you find yourself looking for therapy, I already know you have tried everything. Stop here and let me support you with the solutions and answers to your internal and external conflicts. You really are that powerful...use me to unlock the powers within!
(484) 673-6035 View (484) 673-6035
Photo of Amanda Transue-Woolston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Transue-Woolston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My passion lies in supporting survivors, those connected to adoption, and individuals in LGBTQIA+ and other non-traditional relationships.
I work in ways that honor and respect who they are within their relationships, communities, and society as a whole (collectivist). This integrative approach ensures that therapy is both personalized and grounded in the best available practices, fostering growth and healing on an individual and relational level.
My passion lies in supporting survivors, those connected to adoption, and individuals in LGBTQIA+ and other non-traditional relationships.
I work in ways that honor and respect who they are within their relationships, communities, and society as a whole (collectivist). This integrative approach ensures that therapy is both personalized and grounded in the best available practices, fostering growth and healing on an individual and relational level.
(267) 551-8604 View (267) 551-8604
Photo of Amanda Transue-Woolston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amanda Transue-Woolston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My passion lies in supporting survivors, those connected to adoption, and individuals in LGBTQIA+ and other non-traditional relationships.
I work in ways that honor and respect who they are within their relationships, communities, and society as a whole (collectivist). This integrative approach ensures that therapy is both personalized and grounded in the best available practices, fostering growth and healing on an individual and relational level.
My passion lies in supporting survivors, those connected to adoption, and individuals in LGBTQIA+ and other non-traditional relationships.
I work in ways that honor and respect who they are within their relationships, communities, and society as a whole (collectivist). This integrative approach ensures that therapy is both personalized and grounded in the best available practices, fostering growth and healing on an individual and relational level.
(267) 662-1852 View (267) 662-1852
Photo of Dr. Stephanie Miodus, Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Dr. Stephanie Miodus
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I also provide psychological evaluations for pre- adoption requirements.
Whether you are seeking an evaluation to access academic accommodations, foster personal growth, or clarify a diagnosis, I am here to provide clear, actionable insights into strengths and needs. Every evaluation includes a detailed written report delivered one week after testing is completed and a personalized feedback session to support the next steps.
I also provide psychological evaluations for pre- adoption requirements.
Whether you are seeking an evaluation to access academic accommodations, foster personal growth, or clarify a diagnosis, I am here to provide clear, actionable insights into strengths and needs. Every evaluation includes a detailed written report delivered one week after testing is completed and a personalized feedback session to support the next steps.
(929) 605-1036 View (929) 605-1036

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.