Adoption Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT

Photo of Amber Lingard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Amber Lingard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
I specialize in working with those facing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infertility, adoption issues, and pregnancy & infant loss.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience practicing in various settings and with various populations. I am dedicated to helping all clients feel support and comfort, even during their darkest times. I help clients to find peace, meaningful connections and purpose in their lives.
I specialize in working with those facing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, infertility, adoption issues, and pregnancy & infant loss.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience practicing in various settings and with various populations. I am dedicated to helping all clients feel support and comfort, even during their darkest times. I help clients to find peace, meaningful connections and purpose in their lives.
(385) 786-8165 View (385) 786-8165
Photo of Eric R. Hasemeyer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Eric R. Hasemeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84107  (Online Only)
It has been an honor to work with clients over the past 20 years. In this time, I have worked in many different areas, from crisis intervention, addiction, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience in adoption and attachment issues and I am looking forward to sharing my expertise in these areas.
It has been an honor to work with clients over the past 20 years. In this time, I have worked in many different areas, from crisis intervention, addiction, adolescents, and adults. I have extensive experience in adoption and attachment issues and I am looking forward to sharing my expertise in these areas.
(435) 419-5218 View (435) 419-5218
Photo of Toni Marie Mazzaglia, Mental Health Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Toni Marie Mazzaglia
Mental Health Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84101  (Online Only)
Greetings, I am a clinical mental health counselor and parent coach with over twenty years of experience working with a variety of clients. I specialize in treating complex trauma, anxiety and depression, adoption and attachment issues and family systems issues. I have extensive experience with complex needs and diagnoses and am also trained in brief solution focused approaches, allowing me to support a range of clients. I believe in a holistic, mindfulness-based approach to building wellness and creating a safe space for people to identify needs and goals and work through the process in a guided and supported manner.
Greetings, I am a clinical mental health counselor and parent coach with over twenty years of experience working with a variety of clients. I specialize in treating complex trauma, anxiety and depression, adoption and attachment issues and family systems issues. I have extensive experience with complex needs and diagnoses and am also trained in brief solution focused approaches, allowing me to support a range of clients. I believe in a holistic, mindfulness-based approach to building wellness and creating a safe space for people to identify needs and goals and work through the process in a guided and supported manner.
View
Photo of Joellyn Manville, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Joellyn Manville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
I have extensive experience and training in working with adults and young adults in overcoming difficulties with trauma, PTSD, depression, low self-esteem, boundaries, adoption, communication problems, and life transitions.
Currently accepting new clients using Self Pay, BCBS, PEHP or U of U Healthy Premier or Silver insurances. My style is to use direct and useful feedback whenever appropriate to make treatment both comfortable and effective. I have been told my genuine and transparent style is the reason I am effective. I view all behaviors as being a reaction to situations and originally adaptive and I view all clients as doing the best they can. I will take the time to understand what you are going through, and refrain from making assumptions or judgments.
I have extensive experience and training in working with adults and young adults in overcoming difficulties with trauma, PTSD, depression, low self-esteem, boundaries, adoption, communication problems, and life transitions.
Currently accepting new clients using Self Pay, BCBS, PEHP or U of U Healthy Premier or Silver insurances. My style is to use direct and useful feedback whenever appropriate to make treatment both comfortable and effective. I have been told my genuine and transparent style is the reason I am effective. I view all behaviors as being a reaction to situations and originally adaptive and I view all clients as doing the best they can. I will take the time to understand what you are going through, and refrain from making assumptions or judgments.
(801) 416-3637 View (801) 416-3637
Photo of Brittney Werth, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Brittney Werth
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , MS, LCPC, LMHC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
I am so glad you are here! I am a Professional Counselor licensed to practice in Idaho, Utah and Florida. My research and areas of interest has focused on EMDR, women's issues, postpartum, adoption-related issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and abuse. Counseling is a vulnerable process and I am committed to navigating it with you free of shame or judgement because the work we will do together is BRAVE and COURAGEOUS!
I am so glad you are here! I am a Professional Counselor licensed to practice in Idaho, Utah and Florida. My research and areas of interest has focused on EMDR, women's issues, postpartum, adoption-related issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and abuse. Counseling is a vulnerable process and I am committed to navigating it with you free of shame or judgement because the work we will do together is BRAVE and COURAGEOUS!
(385) 396-7942 View (385) 396-7942
Photo of Kaleidoscopes Consulting PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Kaleidoscopes Consulting PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SUDC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
I am so glad you are here! My name is Rebecca Brown and I am a LCSW licensed to practice in Utah, Colorado and Arizona. I offer counseling and coaching to individuals, families, couples and groups. My specialty areas of focus in therapy have been relationships, loss of a child, grief and loss, women's issues, adoption-related issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, obesity, bariatric surgery assessment, weight loss, self-image, self-esteem and body image and the working with the LGBTQIA community. I have also launched an executive and business practice focused more on excelling individually in your business and career.
I am so glad you are here! My name is Rebecca Brown and I am a LCSW licensed to practice in Utah, Colorado and Arizona. I offer counseling and coaching to individuals, families, couples and groups. My specialty areas of focus in therapy have been relationships, loss of a child, grief and loss, women's issues, adoption-related issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, obesity, bariatric surgery assessment, weight loss, self-image, self-esteem and body image and the working with the LGBTQIA community. I have also launched an executive and business practice focused more on excelling individually in your business and career.
(801) 901-8173 View (801) 901-8173
Photo of Lennie Knowlton, Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Lennie Knowlton
Counselor, CMHC, CDWF
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84109
I have worked as clinical director of a mental health agency and have supervised and trained many trauma and adoption therapists.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 15 years of experience working with trauma, anxiety and relationship issues. I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with depression, anxiety, boundaries and emotion regulation with a goal to attain individual wellness and meaningful connection. My specialization in relationship trauma extends to family, marriage, adoption, family of origin, LGBTQA, minority and other counseling arenas. I am experienced in evidenced-based modalities for trauma and emotional regulation.
I have worked as clinical director of a mental health agency and have supervised and trained many trauma and adoption therapists.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 15 years of experience working with trauma, anxiety and relationship issues. I work with individuals, couples and families struggling with depression, anxiety, boundaries and emotion regulation with a goal to attain individual wellness and meaningful connection. My specialization in relationship trauma extends to family, marriage, adoption, family of origin, LGBTQA, minority and other counseling arenas. I am experienced in evidenced-based modalities for trauma and emotional regulation.
(801) 784-6542 View (801) 784-6542
Photo of Kim Warner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Kim Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
I am passionate about adoption work and enjoy working with birth mothers, birth fathers and adoptees.
Do you worry that you may be in a toxic relationship? Is your relationship filled with euphoric highs and devastating lows leaving you with a gut feeling that something is not right? Do you want to leave the relationship but feel trapped and don't know how? I have specialized training that can help you learn and identify how you are being emotionally manipulated as well as how to leave a toxic relationship. If you choose to stay we can work together to help you find healthy ways to cope with the ups and downs and patterns in the relationship.
I am passionate about adoption work and enjoy working with birth mothers, birth fathers and adoptees.
Do you worry that you may be in a toxic relationship? Is your relationship filled with euphoric highs and devastating lows leaving you with a gut feeling that something is not right? Do you want to leave the relationship but feel trapped and don't know how? I have specialized training that can help you learn and identify how you are being emotionally manipulated as well as how to leave a toxic relationship. If you choose to stay we can work together to help you find healthy ways to cope with the ups and downs and patterns in the relationship.
(801) 528-3937 View (801) 528-3937
Photo of Brian Murdock Counseling, Counselor in Salt Lake City, UT
Brian Murdock Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84121
I work with issues regarding Trauma/PTSD, Grief, Sexual/Pornography addiction, as well as; Depression, Anxiety, Couples Counseling Stress Management, Conflict Resolution Post Adoption Issues, Intimacy and Relationship Difficulties, Improving Communication, Pre-Marital Counseling, Infidelity and Affairs, Spiritual Struggles Divorce Adjustment, Low Self-Esteem and Confidence Issues, and Trust Issues.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I am a member of EMDRIA, and a Certified Therapist in EMDR. At Brian Murdock Counseling my goal is to help establish and increase personal empowerment. I am dedicated to helping others. The goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worthwhile.
I work with issues regarding Trauma/PTSD, Grief, Sexual/Pornography addiction, as well as; Depression, Anxiety, Couples Counseling Stress Management, Conflict Resolution Post Adoption Issues, Intimacy and Relationship Difficulties, Improving Communication, Pre-Marital Counseling, Infidelity and Affairs, Spiritual Struggles Divorce Adjustment, Low Self-Esteem and Confidence Issues, and Trust Issues.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I am a member of EMDRIA, and a Certified Therapist in EMDR. At Brian Murdock Counseling my goal is to help establish and increase personal empowerment. I am dedicated to helping others. The goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worthwhile.
(385) 215-7309 View (385) 215-7309
Photo of Willow Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Willow Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106  (Online Only)
Reaching out for support is hard. You are brave for being here! My name is Julia Ewanowski. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I also have my Masters of Public Health. I specialize in perinatal mental health, or mood and anxiety changes that happen before, during & after pregnancy, perinatal trauma, OCD, grief & loss, infertility, parenting struggles, adoption and relationship conflicts. I also treat the mental health conditions that can accompany chronic health conditions, health-related traumas, terminal illness & caregiver burnout.
Reaching out for support is hard. You are brave for being here! My name is Julia Ewanowski. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I also have my Masters of Public Health. I specialize in perinatal mental health, or mood and anxiety changes that happen before, during & after pregnancy, perinatal trauma, OCD, grief & loss, infertility, parenting struggles, adoption and relationship conflicts. I also treat the mental health conditions that can accompany chronic health conditions, health-related traumas, terminal illness & caregiver burnout.
(385) 375-7250 View (385) 375-7250
Photo of Breeann Hamp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Breeann Hamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84121  (Online Only)
I have experience with individuals in their formative years, especially surrounding adoption, and have worked extensively with adolescents.
I provide a nonjudgmental and accepting environment for clients to feel safe as they tell their stories. I take a collaborative approach, understanding and recognizing that we must work together to accomplish your goals, offering support every step of the way. I recognize that deciding to find a therapist and seeking treatment is a difficult, challenging and highly personal decision. Talking about your life and disclosing personal details to someone you've never met in a professional setting can be daunting and unnerving. I strive to create a comfortable environment for each one of my clients, honoring self-determination.
I have experience with individuals in their formative years, especially surrounding adoption, and have worked extensively with adolescents.
I provide a nonjudgmental and accepting environment for clients to feel safe as they tell their stories. I take a collaborative approach, understanding and recognizing that we must work together to accomplish your goals, offering support every step of the way. I recognize that deciding to find a therapist and seeking treatment is a difficult, challenging and highly personal decision. Talking about your life and disclosing personal details to someone you've never met in a professional setting can be daunting and unnerving. I strive to create a comfortable environment for each one of my clients, honoring self-determination.
(470) 946-6420 View (470) 946-6420
Photo of Brandon J Heugly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Brandon J Heugly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
Waitlist for new clients
My passion and specialty for the last 18 years is working with individuals and families with executive functioning challenges (ADD/ADHD, ASD), attachment development, and adoption related struggles. Individuals and families who are seeking a strong behavioral approach will find practical and effective techniques to create a long lasting healthy lifestyle. I also assist with navigating the IEP/504 plan process. I will meet you and your family with an incredible amount of compassion, love and a healthy dose of humor.
My passion and specialty for the last 18 years is working with individuals and families with executive functioning challenges (ADD/ADHD, ASD), attachment development, and adoption related struggles. Individuals and families who are seeking a strong behavioral approach will find practical and effective techniques to create a long lasting healthy lifestyle. I also assist with navigating the IEP/504 plan process. I will meet you and your family with an incredible amount of compassion, love and a healthy dose of humor.
(801) 980-9789 View (801) 980-9789
Photo of Julia Kronholz, Psychologist in Salt Lake City, UT
Julia Kronholz
Psychologist, PhD, MEd
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
I have experience with the following evaluations: learning disability and giftedness, ADHD, employment/fitness for duty, clergy, adoption, pre-surgery, diagnostic, evaluations required for residential treatment, and court ordered evaluations.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile. I am a licensed psychologist based in Tallahassee, Florida with a specialization in psychological assessment and evaluation. I have advanced training in learning disability evaluations, substance use evaluations, attention deficit hyperactivity evaluations, and psychiatric diagnostic evaluations. I offer a warm, comfortable environment to discuss your concerns and clarify your goals.
I have experience with the following evaluations: learning disability and giftedness, ADHD, employment/fitness for duty, clergy, adoption, pre-surgery, diagnostic, evaluations required for residential treatment, and court ordered evaluations.
Welcome to my Psychology Today profile. I am a licensed psychologist based in Tallahassee, Florida with a specialization in psychological assessment and evaluation. I have advanced training in learning disability evaluations, substance use evaluations, attention deficit hyperactivity evaluations, and psychiatric diagnostic evaluations. I offer a warm, comfortable environment to discuss your concerns and clarify your goals.
View
Photo of Lori Lichte-Brill, Psychologist in Salt Lake City, UT
Lori Lichte-Brill
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
You don't have to do this alone. I have 20 years of experience dealing with issues affecting young children and their caregivers. I provide psychological assessment and treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders (children and adults), parent/child relationship issues, abuse/trauma/neglect, and attachment/foster-care/adoption issues. All family members can receive assessment and treatment, regardless of age, in order to improve individual and family functioning, and the experience of joy. I also assess children in their school or daycare setting, and provide assistance with IEP/IFSP meetings. I use both relational and behavioral strategies for treatment.
You don't have to do this alone. I have 20 years of experience dealing with issues affecting young children and their caregivers. I provide psychological assessment and treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders (children and adults), parent/child relationship issues, abuse/trauma/neglect, and attachment/foster-care/adoption issues. All family members can receive assessment and treatment, regardless of age, in order to improve individual and family functioning, and the experience of joy. I also assess children in their school or daycare setting, and provide assistance with IEP/IFSP meetings. I use both relational and behavioral strategies for treatment.
(623) 850-8954 View (623) 850-8954
Photo of Roxi Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Roxi Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is very relationship based, incorporating fundamentals of clinical practice...including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic and psychosocial approaches. I am very holistic and work with the person in the situation and the system. I specialize with many different presenting problems and have worked with very diverse populations in the past including; parenting skills/coaching, life skills, coping skills, anxiety, depression, high risk behaviors, adoption issues, adjustment issues, such as relocating, divorce, loss, identity issues and learning issues to name a few.
My approach is very relationship based, incorporating fundamentals of clinical practice...including CBT, DBT, psychodynamic and psychosocial approaches. I am very holistic and work with the person in the situation and the system. I specialize with many different presenting problems and have worked with very diverse populations in the past including; parenting skills/coaching, life skills, coping skills, anxiety, depression, high risk behaviors, adoption issues, adjustment issues, such as relocating, divorce, loss, identity issues and learning issues to name a few.
(435) 503-8148 View (435) 503-8148
Photo of Tamara Lin Vitela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Tamara Lin Vitela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Work experience includes community mental health, substance abuse prevention and recovery, employee assistance programs, child welfare and adoption services including adult adoptees search and reunion issues.
Therapy can be a dynamic experience creating hope and energy. Facing challenges and grieving losses we inevitably face is a powerful step in moving toward a more satisfying present. I view therapy as a collaboration with you to create your transformation and growth. Our past experiences shape our view of ourselves and in turn our potential in the future. I hope to assist you to "re-author" the stories you have about yourself not serving a positive purpose and replace them with new stories, skills and a vision that do.
Work experience includes community mental health, substance abuse prevention and recovery, employee assistance programs, child welfare and adoption services including adult adoptees search and reunion issues.
Therapy can be a dynamic experience creating hope and energy. Facing challenges and grieving losses we inevitably face is a powerful step in moving toward a more satisfying present. I view therapy as a collaboration with you to create your transformation and growth. Our past experiences shape our view of ourselves and in turn our potential in the future. I hope to assist you to "re-author" the stories you have about yourself not serving a positive purpose and replace them with new stories, skills and a vision that do.
(801) 615-2524 View (801) 615-2524
Photo of Cami Ashby - Ascend Counseling & Wellness , Marriage & Family Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Cami Ashby - Ascend Counseling & Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84102
I am licensed in Utah & Nevada. I see clients in both states through teletherapy & in person in Mesquite, NV. I enjoy working with a variety of populations such as elderly, children, adolescents, individuals, couples & families. I have experience in working with trauma, adoption & foster care, late adulthood transitions, cognitively challenged & autistic clients, domestic violence perpetrators and victims, addiction, grief, and more. What I have found is that those who come to therapy are the best experts for their situation and need a listening ear, a different perspective, and better tools for success in their life goals.
I am licensed in Utah & Nevada. I see clients in both states through teletherapy & in person in Mesquite, NV. I enjoy working with a variety of populations such as elderly, children, adolescents, individuals, couples & families. I have experience in working with trauma, adoption & foster care, late adulthood transitions, cognitively challenged & autistic clients, domestic violence perpetrators and victims, addiction, grief, and more. What I have found is that those who come to therapy are the best experts for their situation and need a listening ear, a different perspective, and better tools for success in their life goals.
(435) 246-4472 View (435) 246-4472
Photo of Calm Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Calm Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Discover a Path to Wellness with Calm Counseling! Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and well-being? Calm Counseling is thrilled to welcome new clients with open arms. Experience quality care with affordable cash rates and the convenience of accepting most insurance plans. Why Choose Calm Counseling? Compassionate and Experienced Professionals Affordable Cash Rates Acceptance of Most Insurance Plans Weekend and Evening appointments Available Booking is easy! Call us at 435.218.5953 or visit www.CalmCounselingGroup.com to schedule your appointment. Take the first step towards a calmer, more balanced
Discover a Path to Wellness with Calm Counseling! Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and well-being? Calm Counseling is thrilled to welcome new clients with open arms. Experience quality care with affordable cash rates and the convenience of accepting most insurance plans. Why Choose Calm Counseling? Compassionate and Experienced Professionals Affordable Cash Rates Acceptance of Most Insurance Plans Weekend and Evening appointments Available Booking is easy! Call us at 435.218.5953 or visit www.CalmCounselingGroup.com to schedule your appointment. Take the first step towards a calmer, more balanced
(813) 497-4858 View (813) 497-4858
Photo of Mary Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Mary Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84109
I deeply appreciate being able to be a part of the lives of so many amazing people. To work side by side with individuals during the sensitive and vulnerable process of healing is a gift. Within all of us, there is a natural human ability to heal, and we gain confidence when we have access to the right tools that help us to integrate feelings, emotions, experiences, and relationships into something meaningful. I'm a huge fan of tailoring methods and tools to fit individual needs.
I deeply appreciate being able to be a part of the lives of so many amazing people. To work side by side with individuals during the sensitive and vulnerable process of healing is a gift. Within all of us, there is a natural human ability to heal, and we gain confidence when we have access to the right tools that help us to integrate feelings, emotions, experiences, and relationships into something meaningful. I'm a huge fan of tailoring methods and tools to fit individual needs.
(435) 246-1558 View (435) 246-1558
Photo of Stephanie Chamberlain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Salt Lake City, UT
Stephanie Chamberlain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Are you overwhelmed by all the responsibilities you have on your plate, do you feel scattered, or do you always feel three steps behind? Do you find yourself worrying excessively and struggle to rein it in? Maybe you are a parent and struggling to balance caring for your children, working, and caring for yourself? Whether you are struggling with challenges around anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, ADHD, relationship issues, or trauma I can help you. I would work with you to identify the root causes of your struggles and give you the tools necessary to grow beyond these challenges.
Are you overwhelmed by all the responsibilities you have on your plate, do you feel scattered, or do you always feel three steps behind? Do you find yourself worrying excessively and struggle to rein it in? Maybe you are a parent and struggling to balance caring for your children, working, and caring for yourself? Whether you are struggling with challenges around anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, ADHD, relationship issues, or trauma I can help you. I would work with you to identify the root causes of your struggles and give you the tools necessary to grow beyond these challenges.
(385) 381-6665 View (385) 381-6665

See more therapy options for Salt Lake City

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.