Adoption Therapists in Reston, VA

Photo of Laurie Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Laurie Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Adoption and grief work are both specialties.
Your teen’s grades are terrible and she isolates in her room, your adopted child struggles to have any healthy relationships or you are drowning in work and family and can’t find a moment to breathe? I get it! Together we will begin the healing process. I listen, you vent, we laugh and there are tears. Slowly the weight feels less heavy and, one step at a time, hope and relief turn into peace and joy . It's scary, but it's worth it! Take a chance on yourself
Adoption and grief work are both specialties.
Your teen’s grades are terrible and she isolates in her room, your adopted child struggles to have any healthy relationships or you are drowning in work and family and can’t find a moment to breathe? I get it! Together we will begin the healing process. I listen, you vent, we laugh and there are tears. Slowly the weight feels less heavy and, one step at a time, hope and relief turn into peace and joy . It's scary, but it's worth it! Take a chance on yourself
(703) 910-5977 View (703) 910-5977
Photo of Carroll Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Carroll Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Maybe you've seen lots of different therapists, how will adoption focused counseling be different? As a transracial adoptee myself, I have personal insight and have worked with many families like yours.
Finding a therapist you connect with can feel so overwhelming you avoid it. But that is probably why you're here, because there have been things you've been avoiding and you're ready to get some help. Being foster and adoptive parents is way harder than most people understand, especially those who haven't experienced the invasive and arduous process. As a teen or young adult, you might be feeling lost or angry. You might be having a harder time than others figuring out who are you are and where you fit in the world. My style fuses warmth, humor, and directness.
Maybe you've seen lots of different therapists, how will adoption focused counseling be different? As a transracial adoptee myself, I have personal insight and have worked with many families like yours.
Finding a therapist you connect with can feel so overwhelming you avoid it. But that is probably why you're here, because there have been things you've been avoiding and you're ready to get some help. Being foster and adoptive parents is way harder than most people understand, especially those who haven't experienced the invasive and arduous process. As a teen or young adult, you might be feeling lost or angry. You might be having a harder time than others figuring out who are you are and where you fit in the world. My style fuses warmth, humor, and directness.
(540) 401-5455 View (540) 401-5455
Photo of Ioana Marcus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reston, VA
Ioana Marcus
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, GEP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
I work with adolescent and adult clients navigating anxiety and depression, recovery from eating disorders, trauma, developmental trauma/ adoption.
My practice is founded on creating a safe space for you to work on your most authentic, whole and healthy self. My work with you is focused not only on understanding your past experiences, whether family, relationships, traumas or mental health concerns that have been hindering your growth, but also supporting you to step into your life NOW. I will support you and walk the walk with you. We will explore how to fully live and thrive in the present, grow to your fullest potential, way beyond what you imagine for yourself.
I work with adolescent and adult clients navigating anxiety and depression, recovery from eating disorders, trauma, developmental trauma/ adoption.
My practice is founded on creating a safe space for you to work on your most authentic, whole and healthy self. My work with you is focused not only on understanding your past experiences, whether family, relationships, traumas or mental health concerns that have been hindering your growth, but also supporting you to step into your life NOW. I will support you and walk the walk with you. We will explore how to fully live and thrive in the present, grow to your fullest potential, way beyond what you imagine for yourself.
(703) 997-6804 View (703) 997-6804
Photo of Ana Cristina Uribe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Ana Cristina Uribe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190  (Online Only)
Se Habla Español. Are you experiencing the stress of every day life? Are you feeling overwhelmed and that you can't do everything you need to do? Having gone through both of these experiences, I know what it's like to feel like the world is caving in. Sometimes it is difficult to think clearly when our plate is not just full, but overflowing.
Se Habla Español. Are you experiencing the stress of every day life? Are you feeling overwhelmed and that you can't do everything you need to do? Having gone through both of these experiences, I know what it's like to feel like the world is caving in. Sometimes it is difficult to think clearly when our plate is not just full, but overflowing.
(571) 496-9818 View (571) 496-9818
Photo of Sarah McClerren, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reston, VA
Sarah McClerren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Counselors have the unique opportunity to facilitate healing and change through their relationships with others. I believe that the seeds of change are first planted through safe relationships where one can be open and honest without judgement. Creating a supportive environment for my clients to process and grow is what I love most about therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of mental health issues, including mood disorders, behavioral disorders, trauma, and relationship problems. It would be an honor and a privilege to walk with you on your journey.
Counselors have the unique opportunity to facilitate healing and change through their relationships with others. I believe that the seeds of change are first planted through safe relationships where one can be open and honest without judgement. Creating a supportive environment for my clients to process and grow is what I love most about therapy. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults on a variety of mental health issues, including mood disorders, behavioral disorders, trauma, and relationship problems. It would be an honor and a privilege to walk with you on your journey.
(571) 200-7594 View (571) 200-7594
Photo of Karen P Orem, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reston, VA
Karen P Orem
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
You will be offered a safe and respectful environment in which to share your unique experiences. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) will help you change your thoughts, change your life! This is absolutely true, yet sometimes you might experience trying to think yourself into feeling better and it's simply not working. Your life looks complete, or almost, but you can't feel it. You are frustrated that your thoughts and feelings are not in agreement. At a thinking level, you know you didn't cause what happened, yet still feel like it's your fault and this keeps you stuck.
You will be offered a safe and respectful environment in which to share your unique experiences. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) will help you change your thoughts, change your life! This is absolutely true, yet sometimes you might experience trying to think yourself into feeling better and it's simply not working. Your life looks complete, or almost, but you can't feel it. You are frustrated that your thoughts and feelings are not in agreement. At a thinking level, you know you didn't cause what happened, yet still feel like it's your fault and this keeps you stuck.
(540) 724-1936 View (540) 724-1936
Photo of David Cranford, Psychologist in Reston, VA
David Cranford
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
I have over 20 years of experience in the field of clinical psychology, providing both psychological evaluation and therapy services. My areas of focus include identifying clinical and educational related concerns through evaluation as well as using cognitive behavioral methods to treat a wide range of concerns. My therapy clients often request services for depression, anxiety, school and work related issues, and coping with day to day stress.
I have over 20 years of experience in the field of clinical psychology, providing both psychological evaluation and therapy services. My areas of focus include identifying clinical and educational related concerns through evaluation as well as using cognitive behavioral methods to treat a wide range of concerns. My therapy clients often request services for depression, anxiety, school and work related issues, and coping with day to day stress.
(571) 495-3887 View (571) 495-3887
Photo of Susan M Pan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Susan M Pan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, CDWF, CPTT
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Daring Way Facilitator (CDWF), a Certified Partner & Trauma Therapist (CPTT) , and an experienced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have been in practice since 1986. Through psychotherapy, I help clients identify and use these resources to grow and change. I specialize in empowering people to resolve issues such as: addictions, co-dependency, anxiety, depression, family discord, couples conflict, parenting struggles and post divorce relationships.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Daring Way Facilitator (CDWF), a Certified Partner & Trauma Therapist (CPTT) , and an experienced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I have been in practice since 1986. Through psychotherapy, I help clients identify and use these resources to grow and change. I specialize in empowering people to resolve issues such as: addictions, co-dependency, anxiety, depression, family discord, couples conflict, parenting struggles and post divorce relationships.
(540) 227-0917 View (540) 227-0917
Photo of Patricia Pearson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Patricia Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, RPT,S
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
Initially, therapy can help us learn skills to cope with our anxious or painful feelings. It can help us manage stressful situations and feel more stable. Then therapy provides a safe place where together we can dig deeper to discover the causes of our feelings. Through the therapeutic relationship we become aware. The awareness glares so bright that change is inevitable.
Initially, therapy can help us learn skills to cope with our anxious or painful feelings. It can help us manage stressful situations and feel more stable. Then therapy provides a safe place where together we can dig deeper to discover the causes of our feelings. Through the therapeutic relationship we become aware. The awareness glares so bright that change is inevitable.
(703) 940-9052 View (703) 940-9052
Photo of Drake Delaplane, Marriage & Family Therapist in Reston, VA
Drake Delaplane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
Are you feeling confused, anxious, hopeless, hurt, abused, out of control, struggling with sleep issues, or lonely? Do you notice that you are not able to move through life with ease, becoming irritable, tired, or stuck in a cycle of despair? Sometimes life presents us with feelings or situations that seem overwhelming leading you to desire someone who honestly "gets" you, who will help you feel understood, and who will provide clearcut answers. My therapy provides a safe experience to explore all that life throws your way and can help you get to know your inner world and feelings, providing quick focus and precise solutions.
Are you feeling confused, anxious, hopeless, hurt, abused, out of control, struggling with sleep issues, or lonely? Do you notice that you are not able to move through life with ease, becoming irritable, tired, or stuck in a cycle of despair? Sometimes life presents us with feelings or situations that seem overwhelming leading you to desire someone who honestly "gets" you, who will help you feel understood, and who will provide clearcut answers. My therapy provides a safe experience to explore all that life throws your way and can help you get to know your inner world and feelings, providing quick focus and precise solutions.
(916) 758-9539 View (916) 758-9539
Photo of Pamela Billy Light, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Pamela Billy Light
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Over 30 years of experience as a social worker has taught me that it takes a lot of courage to ask for help. I have great respect for anyone who has that courage. Most of us feel we can fix things ourselves and most of the time we probably can, but sometimes we feel completely overwhelmed by circumstances beyond our control. At such times, the expertise of a trained therapist can help us to find the strength to work through the issues that prevent us from taking the actions necessary to create fresh options and opportunities in our lives. I feel so lucky to be doing a job I love so much. I care deeply about helping people move beyond their perceived limitations to live a life that is deeply fulfilling and joyful.
Over 30 years of experience as a social worker has taught me that it takes a lot of courage to ask for help. I have great respect for anyone who has that courage. Most of us feel we can fix things ourselves and most of the time we probably can, but sometimes we feel completely overwhelmed by circumstances beyond our control. At such times, the expertise of a trained therapist can help us to find the strength to work through the issues that prevent us from taking the actions necessary to create fresh options and opportunities in our lives. I feel so lucky to be doing a job I love so much. I care deeply about helping people move beyond their perceived limitations to live a life that is deeply fulfilling and joyful.
(540) 632-2940 View (540) 632-2940
Photo of Path to Peace Psychotherapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Path to Peace Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
We are a group practice specializing in treating kids, teens & adults who need help managing stress, fears, anxiety, depression & resolution of trauma & PTSD. We use approaches such as EMDR Therapy, CBT, IFS and Sandtray to heal as well as address and change, persistent negative thoughts from difficult childhood experiences or more recently. The use of these modalities within a safe therapeutic relationship help you feel empowered & hopeful about your future. Our particular approach is to build on your core strengths enabling you to move beyond, while completely eliminating, triggering situations. Our bodies & minds are geared heal.
We are a group practice specializing in treating kids, teens & adults who need help managing stress, fears, anxiety, depression & resolution of trauma & PTSD. We use approaches such as EMDR Therapy, CBT, IFS and Sandtray to heal as well as address and change, persistent negative thoughts from difficult childhood experiences or more recently. The use of these modalities within a safe therapeutic relationship help you feel empowered & hopeful about your future. Our particular approach is to build on your core strengths enabling you to move beyond, while completely eliminating, triggering situations. Our bodies & minds are geared heal.
(703) 988-6436 View (703) 988-6436
Photo of Susan Frauenholtz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Susan Frauenholtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20191  (Online Only)
Hi there, I'm Susan. Have you been overwhelmed by juggling life's demands recently? Would you like to feel more confident in relationships and comfortable in your own skin? Are you finding it difficult to cope with change and loss? Reaching out for support is a big first step. As a licensed clinician in both Virginia and Iowa with over two decades of experience, I will work collaboratively with you as a partner to explore solutions and help you reach your goals. My approach to counseling is to create a space that feels safe, nonjudgmental, and welcoming.
Hi there, I'm Susan. Have you been overwhelmed by juggling life's demands recently? Would you like to feel more confident in relationships and comfortable in your own skin? Are you finding it difficult to cope with change and loss? Reaching out for support is a big first step. As a licensed clinician in both Virginia and Iowa with over two decades of experience, I will work collaboratively with you as a partner to explore solutions and help you reach your goals. My approach to counseling is to create a space that feels safe, nonjudgmental, and welcoming.
(319) 302-3981 View (319) 302-3981
Photo of Kyle Stephan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Reston, VA
Kyle Stephan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
The building blocks of your identity are rooted in the relational experiences you had as a child, the world you lived in, the resources available, and the challenges life sent your way. You may have learned that some emotions or needs were not acceptable or tolerable, some needs would need to be met indirectly through adaptations (such as perfectionism, people pleasing, playing small or withdrawing), or that some needs might not be met at all and would need to be abandoned or minimized. My role is to help you make sense of who you are, how you got here, your patterns of relating, and how to create the relationships you long for.
The building blocks of your identity are rooted in the relational experiences you had as a child, the world you lived in, the resources available, and the challenges life sent your way. You may have learned that some emotions or needs were not acceptable or tolerable, some needs would need to be met indirectly through adaptations (such as perfectionism, people pleasing, playing small or withdrawing), or that some needs might not be met at all and would need to be abandoned or minimized. My role is to help you make sense of who you are, how you got here, your patterns of relating, and how to create the relationships you long for.
(540) 924-1689 View (540) 924-1689
Photo of Psychotherapy, Forensic & Consultation, Counselor in Reston, VA
Psychotherapy, Forensic & Consultation
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190  (Online Only)
I believe every individual has a chance at succeeding in life, regardless of his / their /her present or past circumstances. Sometimes, we find ourselves in a place where we just need to talk to someone without judgment or prejudice. Life's stressors can overwhelm us to the point where we don't know where to start to get back to our usual self. Regardless if you feel you need one session or more, therapy will be empowering for you and help you compartmentalize your worries into manageable tasks.
I believe every individual has a chance at succeeding in life, regardless of his / their /her present or past circumstances. Sometimes, we find ourselves in a place where we just need to talk to someone without judgment or prejudice. Life's stressors can overwhelm us to the point where we don't know where to start to get back to our usual self. Regardless if you feel you need one session or more, therapy will be empowering for you and help you compartmentalize your worries into manageable tasks.
(571) 520-4767 View (571) 520-4767
Photo of Chiara Simeone-Difrancesco, Psychologist in Reston, VA
Chiara Simeone-Difrancesco
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191  (Online Only)
Specialty: 1) Marriage. Make it better: heal hurts; recover post affair(s); reconnect from drifting. Expertise in helping couples fall in love again. Often with children and careers spouses find they are not so connected ...sometimes with "bad behavior" trust becomes severely damaged or sexual issues...Hope and expert guidance are to be had... Personality rough edges can become smoother as persons learn how to connect. I work especially well with busy professionals who want better marriages. 2) INDIVIDUAL Therapy & Counseling, 33 years experience/training. Try a National Register Psychologist & see the difference!
Specialty: 1) Marriage. Make it better: heal hurts; recover post affair(s); reconnect from drifting. Expertise in helping couples fall in love again. Often with children and careers spouses find they are not so connected ...sometimes with "bad behavior" trust becomes severely damaged or sexual issues...Hope and expert guidance are to be had... Personality rough edges can become smoother as persons learn how to connect. I work especially well with busy professionals who want better marriages. 2) INDIVIDUAL Therapy & Counseling, 33 years experience/training. Try a National Register Psychologist & see the difference!
(920) 633-3678 View (920) 633-3678
Photo of Amanda Kelsheimer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Reston, VA
Amanda Kelsheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
I work with adult individuals and children aged 2-18 and their families/caregivers. I focus on supporting clients to creatively turn their pain into coping skills, missed connections into secure relationships, and problematic behaviors into strengths and resiliency. I focus on practical, real-world strategies that build security and connection through a balance of nurture, engagement, structure, and challenge. These strategies are a resource that can then be utilized through different life experiences, stages, and adversity. I support children and caregivers alike to learn new ways of responding, guiding, and supporting one another.
I work with adult individuals and children aged 2-18 and their families/caregivers. I focus on supporting clients to creatively turn their pain into coping skills, missed connections into secure relationships, and problematic behaviors into strengths and resiliency. I focus on practical, real-world strategies that build security and connection through a balance of nurture, engagement, structure, and challenge. These strategies are a resource that can then be utilized through different life experiences, stages, and adversity. I support children and caregivers alike to learn new ways of responding, guiding, and supporting one another.
(703) 997-6325 View (703) 997-6325
Photo of Lindsay Stejskal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reston, VA
Lindsay Stejskal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Lindsay and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. I am also a Certified Autism Specialist (IBCCES). I have a Master of Arts in Counseling with an emphasis in professional mental health counseling. I earned this degree through in-person studies. I would describe myself as nurturing, empathetic, and open-minded. I am also a proud wife and mom, which I believe enrich my role as a therapist. I have over eleven years of experience working in the field of mental health and over 7 years working with individuals with autism.
Hi there! My name is Lindsay and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois. I am also a Certified Autism Specialist (IBCCES). I have a Master of Arts in Counseling with an emphasis in professional mental health counseling. I earned this degree through in-person studies. I would describe myself as nurturing, empathetic, and open-minded. I am also a proud wife and mom, which I believe enrich my role as a therapist. I have over eleven years of experience working in the field of mental health and over 7 years working with individuals with autism.
(804) 518-8862 View (804) 518-8862
Photo of Juan Carlos Silva, Psychologist in Reston, VA
Juan Carlos Silva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20191
Are you ready to challenge yourself? Do you feel there is a gap between your true potential and your current achievements? Does your thinking pattern keep you from enjoying life? If your answer to any of these questions is Yes then we should probably talk. I have been a psychotherapist since 1991 and can certainly offer valuable, diagnostic, and therapeutic interventions to help you realistically define and achieve your goals. Whether you want to improve your relationship or marriage, get ahead in your career, put traumatic memories behind, or remain drug-free I can help you move in that direction.
Are you ready to challenge yourself? Do you feel there is a gap between your true potential and your current achievements? Does your thinking pattern keep you from enjoying life? If your answer to any of these questions is Yes then we should probably talk. I have been a psychotherapist since 1991 and can certainly offer valuable, diagnostic, and therapeutic interventions to help you realistically define and achieve your goals. Whether you want to improve your relationship or marriage, get ahead in your career, put traumatic memories behind, or remain drug-free I can help you move in that direction.
(703) 584-4766 View (703) 584-4766
Photo of Johni J Spinelli, Licensed Professional Counselor in Reston, VA
Johni J Spinelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, Johni, J, Spinell, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
I will assist you in a caring and professional manner to find realistic answers and solutions that make sense to you in your life, and allow you to more effectively manage each day. I bring over 20 years of experience working effectively with adults, children, families, and couples with a wide range of problems, from mild to severe in nature. My therapeutic approach is strength-based and practical. I draw from a number of different treatment approaches (including but not limited to: CBT, Humanistic, Family Systems, DBT) to most effectively address your presenting issues, reduce symptoms, and meet your goals in seeking treatment.
I will assist you in a caring and professional manner to find realistic answers and solutions that make sense to you in your life, and allow you to more effectively manage each day. I bring over 20 years of experience working effectively with adults, children, families, and couples with a wide range of problems, from mild to severe in nature. My therapeutic approach is strength-based and practical. I draw from a number of different treatment approaches (including but not limited to: CBT, Humanistic, Family Systems, DBT) to most effectively address your presenting issues, reduce symptoms, and meet your goals in seeking treatment.
(571) 384-4612 View (571) 384-4612
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.