Adoption Therapists in Saint Albans, VT

Photo of Hailey Libbey, Counselor, LCMHC
Hailey Libbey
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, LGBTQA+, adoption & attachment, grief & loss, etc.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Have you experienced a traumatic event or loss and struggling to navigate the world around you? I may be able to help. I graduated with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2019. For the past 5 years I have worked with children and teens (5-18) along with their caregivers (bio/foster/adoptive/kin). I have provided direct client care to adults 65+ for over 15 years. I will use a collection of therapeutic modalities to meet your needs. Contact me today.
I have extensive experience working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma & PTSD, LGBTQA+, adoption & attachment, grief & loss, etc.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Have you experienced a traumatic event or loss and struggling to navigate the world around you? I may be able to help. I graduated with my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in 2019. For the past 5 years I have worked with children and teens (5-18) along with their caregivers (bio/foster/adoptive/kin). I have provided direct client care to adults 65+ for over 15 years. I will use a collection of therapeutic modalities to meet your needs. Contact me today.
(802) 200-2955 View (802) 200-2955
Photo of Daniel P Quinn, Pre-Licensed Professional
Daniel P Quinn
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Online Only
I’ve been working in the mental health field for close to two decades and have extensive experience working with diverse populations at the individual, family, and community levels. I’ve worked in for-profit and non-profit spaces, and spent a number of years in wilderness therapy. Over the course of eight years working in the field in Hawai’i, I developed a trauma-informed and person-centric approach, utilizing holistic health practices, rights of passage, goal-setting, horticulture therapy, mindfulness, and, when possible, personal training. My goal is to engage people in working towards their healthiest selves.
I’ve been working in the mental health field for close to two decades and have extensive experience working with diverse populations at the individual, family, and community levels. I’ve worked in for-profit and non-profit spaces, and spent a number of years in wilderness therapy. Over the course of eight years working in the field in Hawai’i, I developed a trauma-informed and person-centric approach, utilizing holistic health practices, rights of passage, goal-setting, horticulture therapy, mindfulness, and, when possible, personal training. My goal is to engage people in working towards their healthiest selves.
(802) 210-4320 View (802) 210-4320
Photo of Gillian J Ireland, MS, LCMHC
Gillian J Ireland
MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Albans, VT 05478
My motto is: "Life is an Adventure". I have worked in the Mental Health field across many settings and with all age groups. As the years pass and my experience deepens, I find that my approach is leaning more and more towards Positive Psychology. While I am skilled and knowledgeable about how to help solve problems, work through issues and reduce symptoms, I also feel that it is my job to help people to access the strengths and assets that they already have or can develop to help them towards healing. I am currently certified as an EMDR Practitioner.
My motto is: "Life is an Adventure". I have worked in the Mental Health field across many settings and with all age groups. As the years pass and my experience deepens, I find that my approach is leaning more and more towards Positive Psychology. While I am skilled and knowledgeable about how to help solve problems, work through issues and reduce symptoms, I also feel that it is my job to help people to access the strengths and assets that they already have or can develop to help them towards healing. I am currently certified as an EMDR Practitioner.
(802) 327-0087 View (802) 327-0087
Photo of Courtney R Marshall, Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Courtney R Marshall
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Albans, VT 05478
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping children and young adults find their inner strengths, express their emotions, and increase resiliency. Collaboration with parents/caregivers is an essential component of the therapeutic experience for children and adolescents. Working previously in early childhood, elementary, and special education as well as mental health gives me a unique ability to support children of various ages, developmental levels, and needs in navigating life's challenges, building coping skills, & improving relationships. I am a parent of neurodivergent kids & offer a neurodiversity affirming space for both children & adults.
I am passionate about helping children and young adults find their inner strengths, express their emotions, and increase resiliency. Collaboration with parents/caregivers is an essential component of the therapeutic experience for children and adolescents. Working previously in early childhood, elementary, and special education as well as mental health gives me a unique ability to support children of various ages, developmental levels, and needs in navigating life's challenges, building coping skills, & improving relationships. I am a parent of neurodivergent kids & offer a neurodiversity affirming space for both children & adults.
(802) 392-2410 View (802) 392-2410
Photo of Karen Giroux. Lcmhc Ladc, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LADC
Karen Giroux. Lcmhc Ladc
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Albans, VT 05478
Trauma informed Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Services. With a focus on post traumatic growth through acknowledging and understanding the impact of trauma/stress on the brain and the nervous system. We can get stuck in negative and destructive thought patterns as a result of these injuries that resonate through our lives. Using a mind/body approach with a person-centered foundation; EMDR; Audio Visual Entrainment therapy; Brainspotting and parts work to begin restoring your sense of self. please use email for any inquiries or referrals
Trauma informed Mental Health and Addiction Recovery Services. With a focus on post traumatic growth through acknowledging and understanding the impact of trauma/stress on the brain and the nervous system. We can get stuck in negative and destructive thought patterns as a result of these injuries that resonate through our lives. Using a mind/body approach with a person-centered foundation; EMDR; Audio Visual Entrainment therapy; Brainspotting and parts work to begin restoring your sense of self. please use email for any inquiries or referrals
(802) 266-4665 View (802) 266-4665
Photo of Deborah F Ketcham, Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT-S
Deborah F Ketcham
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In 20 years of witnessing adults/children within the therapeutic relationship, I am in awe of the strength and resiliency individuals show in the face of truly traumatic events. Over the years, I have built a level of expertise in understanding the role that the transpersonal plays in the healing process. Being a Registered Play Therapist means that I have examined clinically how the story we tell ourselves about an event dictates both the burdens & the strengths we assign to our "self." I welcome you to that process of discovery and healing as we partner on the human journey together.
In 20 years of witnessing adults/children within the therapeutic relationship, I am in awe of the strength and resiliency individuals show in the face of truly traumatic events. Over the years, I have built a level of expertise in understanding the role that the transpersonal plays in the healing process. Being a Registered Play Therapist means that I have examined clinically how the story we tell ourselves about an event dictates both the burdens & the strengths we assign to our "self." I welcome you to that process of discovery and healing as we partner on the human journey together.
(802) 992-8196 View (802) 992-8196
Photo of Hannah Kretvix, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Hannah Kretvix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, and welcome! I am currently accepting new clients. I believe that all people are the experts of their own experiences and capable of meaningful growth. The therapeutic relationship can be a supportive vessel for exploring a wide range of concerns and topics. These might include, but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, trauma, substance-use, life transitions, relationships, and identity. Together, we can explore existing patterns of thinking, communicating, and being... seeking to build upon what is working, and gently shift what isn't.
Hello, and welcome! I am currently accepting new clients. I believe that all people are the experts of their own experiences and capable of meaningful growth. The therapeutic relationship can be a supportive vessel for exploring a wide range of concerns and topics. These might include, but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, trauma, substance-use, life transitions, relationships, and identity. Together, we can explore existing patterns of thinking, communicating, and being... seeking to build upon what is working, and gently shift what isn't.
(802) 278-9648 View (802) 278-9648
Photo of Jen Castonguay, Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Jen Castonguay
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I have experience with clients of varied age groups and presenting issues, including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, anger management, adoption, family conflict, parenting issues, emotion regulation, coping skills, and social awareness/understanding skills.
I have worked in community mental health for 13 years, and have a strong understanding of the system of care. I am committed to increasing therapeutic resources and opportunities for individuals in our community. My approach to therapeutic work is collaborative in nature, and client & family focused.
I have experience with clients of varied age groups and presenting issues, including: anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, anger management, adoption, family conflict, parenting issues, emotion regulation, coping skills, and social awareness/understanding skills.
I have worked in community mental health for 13 years, and have a strong understanding of the system of care. I am committed to increasing therapeutic resources and opportunities for individuals in our community. My approach to therapeutic work is collaborative in nature, and client & family focused.
(802) 664-4519 View (802) 664-4519
Photo of Thomas Mock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACSW, BCD
Thomas Mock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Saint Albans, VT 05478
Not accepting new clients
Choosing a therapist for yourself or loved one can be a difficult task. A true "Master" of the healing arts is one who has spent years learning, practicing, and refining their skills as a healer. Individuals, couples and families first entering into the therapeutic relationship often feel overwhelmed, confused, anxious and vulnerable. They need to feel safe by knowing that they are truly being heard and respected. They also need to trust that their therapist has sufficient experience to patiently guide them thru the process of self discovery on their path to wellness and feeling whole, perhaps for the first time in their life.
Choosing a therapist for yourself or loved one can be a difficult task. A true "Master" of the healing arts is one who has spent years learning, practicing, and refining their skills as a healer. Individuals, couples and families first entering into the therapeutic relationship often feel overwhelmed, confused, anxious and vulnerable. They need to feel safe by knowing that they are truly being heard and respected. They also need to trust that their therapist has sufficient experience to patiently guide them thru the process of self discovery on their path to wellness and feeling whole, perhaps for the first time in their life.
(802) 278-0404 View (802) 278-0404
Photo of Christian M. Dymond - Nature-Centered Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Nature-Centered Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I am passionate about helping people grow. I work with a variety of ages. I find family therapy to be very valuable work andI believe that people can grow throughout their lives. If you are a parent struggling with a teen, or an adult struggling in relationships, I believe that psychotherapy can help. Nature centered psychotherapy uses research based approaches to help people develop healthy coping skills, recover from trauma, and to develop a deeper connection to themselves. Sessions take place outdoors in a natural setting drawing from principles of Ecotherapy.
I am passionate about helping people grow. I work with a variety of ages. I find family therapy to be very valuable work andI believe that people can grow throughout their lives. If you are a parent struggling with a teen, or an adult struggling in relationships, I believe that psychotherapy can help. Nature centered psychotherapy uses research based approaches to help people develop healthy coping skills, recover from trauma, and to develop a deeper connection to themselves. Sessions take place outdoors in a natural setting drawing from principles of Ecotherapy.
(802) 560-3189 View (802) 560-3189
Photo of Julia Kimball, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Julia Kimball
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
** UNFORTUNATELY I AM NOT ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME ** I believe that all people have innate potential for growth and change. This belief is the cornerstone of my practice and my commitment to you is to use that conviction to inform our work together. I have experience working with individuals experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, PTSD and other effects of trauma, grief and loss, aging, and parenting and relationship challenges. I also have extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with Autism spectrum disorders and/or intellectual disabilities and their families.
** UNFORTUNATELY I AM NOT ABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME ** I believe that all people have innate potential for growth and change. This belief is the cornerstone of my practice and my commitment to you is to use that conviction to inform our work together. I have experience working with individuals experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, PTSD and other effects of trauma, grief and loss, aging, and parenting and relationship challenges. I also have extensive experience working with individuals diagnosed with Autism spectrum disorders and/or intellectual disabilities and their families.
(802) 277-3021 View (802) 277-3021

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ryan Fontaine, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Ryan Fontaine
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Navigating adoption, parenting, healing from trauma, or struggling with big life changes?
In my experience, many of our current struggles are rooted in the past. Untangling what we carry can feel daunting, especially when trying to make space for what we want. Our minds can be more complex than any mystery—and that’s where I come in! I’ve had great success using CBT, EFT, and trauma therapies to help untie those knots.
Navigating adoption, parenting, healing from trauma, or struggling with big life changes?
In my experience, many of our current struggles are rooted in the past. Untangling what we carry can feel daunting, especially when trying to make space for what we want. Our minds can be more complex than any mystery—and that’s where I come in! I’ve had great success using CBT, EFT, and trauma therapies to help untie those knots.
(321) 492-0425 View (321) 492-0425
Photo of Karen Rafferty Keighley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Karen Rafferty Keighley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer a compassionate, client-focused approach to help you process the complexities of adoption.
As both an adoptee and a therapist, I understand the unique challenges adoptees face. I specialize in helping adult adoptees navigate issues like identity, trauma, attachment, relationships, and the absence of genetic mirroring. Life events such as the birth of a child, the loss of a loved one, or a reunion with a birth family can feel especially overwhelming. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space to explore these experiences and develop effective strategies for healing, connection, and personal growth.
I offer a compassionate, client-focused approach to help you process the complexities of adoption.
As both an adoptee and a therapist, I understand the unique challenges adoptees face. I specialize in helping adult adoptees navigate issues like identity, trauma, attachment, relationships, and the absence of genetic mirroring. Life events such as the birth of a child, the loss of a loved one, or a reunion with a birth family can feel especially overwhelming. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate space to explore these experiences and develop effective strategies for healing, connection, and personal growth.
(508) 231-9192 View (508) 231-9192
Photo of Kate Littlefield, Counselor, LCMHC
Kate Littlefield
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Essex Junction, VT 05452
I have extensive training in trauma, attachment, adoption, family systems, and perinatal mental health.
I currently have daytime openings for individuals, couples or families. I specialize in couples, families and perinatal mental health (conception, fertility, postpartum challenges). If you're looking for a experienced, authentic therapist who can help you figure out the hard stuff with concrete tools and a variety of interventions, combined with validation and compassion, I'm your person. Whether it's finding connection and balance after baby, birth trauma, conception/fertility, or family dynamic challenges, I've got an array of skills and over 20 years of experience and training. Start to feel better in as little as 1-3 sessions.
I have extensive training in trauma, attachment, adoption, family systems, and perinatal mental health.
I currently have daytime openings for individuals, couples or families. I specialize in couples, families and perinatal mental health (conception, fertility, postpartum challenges). If you're looking for a experienced, authentic therapist who can help you figure out the hard stuff with concrete tools and a variety of interventions, combined with validation and compassion, I'm your person. Whether it's finding connection and balance after baby, birth trauma, conception/fertility, or family dynamic challenges, I've got an array of skills and over 20 years of experience and training. Start to feel better in as little as 1-3 sessions.
(802) 494-4956 View (802) 494-4956
Photo of Dr. Danielle Robillard D'Amico, Psychologist, PsyD, DipACLM
Dr. Danielle Robillard D'Amico
Psychologist, PsyD, DipACLM
Verified Verified
Winooski, VT 05404
I have extensive expertise in treating those who face a range of challenges, including anxiety, stress, sadness and depressed mood, grief, family and life transitions, relationship difficulties, trauma, adoption, attachment-related concerns, OCD, chronic illness, and interpersonal struggles.
My approach is guided by each client's unique needs and goals for therapy. Additionally, my therapeutic lens and style are largely informed by my background in psychodynamic psychotherapy, promoting insight, growth, and adaptability. I also draw from cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused interventions, lifestyle medicine, and other modalities.
I have extensive expertise in treating those who face a range of challenges, including anxiety, stress, sadness and depressed mood, grief, family and life transitions, relationship difficulties, trauma, adoption, attachment-related concerns, OCD, chronic illness, and interpersonal struggles.
My approach is guided by each client's unique needs and goals for therapy. Additionally, my therapeutic lens and style are largely informed by my background in psychodynamic psychotherapy, promoting insight, growth, and adaptability. I also draw from cognitive behavioral and trauma-focused interventions, lifestyle medicine, and other modalities.
(802) 873-7613 View (802) 873-7613
Photo of Kristen L Sheppard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Kristen L Sheppard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My experience includes managing a large community mental health center; substance use treatment; the LGBTQIA2+ community; post adoption work; raising a child with disabilities; and navigating the courts, disabilities, and the special education systems.
I am an online only therapist with 29 years of experience. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Further, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida, as an out-of-state telehealth provider. I utilize a variety of approaches and tailor treatment to meet each client’s specific needs. I am trauma informed, strengths based, and solution focused in developing strategies to help promote personal growth. I currently hold certifications in Clinical Trauma, Family Trauma, Child and Adolescent Trauma, CBT, DBT, Addictions, Anxiety, Forensics, and Grief.
My experience includes managing a large community mental health center; substance use treatment; the LGBTQIA2+ community; post adoption work; raising a child with disabilities; and navigating the courts, disabilities, and the special education systems.
I am an online only therapist with 29 years of experience. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. Further, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida, as an out-of-state telehealth provider. I utilize a variety of approaches and tailor treatment to meet each client’s specific needs. I am trauma informed, strengths based, and solution focused in developing strategies to help promote personal growth. I currently hold certifications in Clinical Trauma, Family Trauma, Child and Adolescent Trauma, CBT, DBT, Addictions, Anxiety, Forensics, and Grief.
(978) 361-0627 View (978) 361-0627
Photo of Scott Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Scott Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Facilitate treatment with individuals who have PTSD histories including attachment issues in the context of foster & adoption issues; Working with families or young adults who struggle to communicate, get along or are in challenging life situations.
Thank you for your interest. My clinical work focuses on individuals who are experiencing personal, family or relational and communication difficulty. These may include couples or parents of children or teenagers. Additionally, young adults in transition in life including school, job or a relationship. My therapeutic approach is to first explore with you your life history, the presenting problem and then develop a plan, utilizing tools to manage the stressors better. We'll establish goals for our work and embark on a journey together.
Facilitate treatment with individuals who have PTSD histories including attachment issues in the context of foster & adoption issues; Working with families or young adults who struggle to communicate, get along or are in challenging life situations.
Thank you for your interest. My clinical work focuses on individuals who are experiencing personal, family or relational and communication difficulty. These may include couples or parents of children or teenagers. Additionally, young adults in transition in life including school, job or a relationship. My therapeutic approach is to first explore with you your life history, the presenting problem and then develop a plan, utilizing tools to manage the stressors better. We'll establish goals for our work and embark on a journey together.
(802) 200-2514 View (802) 200-2514
Photo of Laurie Odden Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Laurie Odden Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I hold certificates in traumatic stress and adoption competent treatment with extensive training in EMDR, ARC, TF-CBT and performance enhancement techniques.
I work in NJ & VT with adolescents, young adults and adults who feel stuck and are seeking to address their blocks to improve their overall functioning across domains of life. My background is rooted in clinical social work practice and trauma-informed care. I pull from many evidence-based practices and offer compassion, empathy, authenticity and humor in service of creating a psychologically safe place that can be utilized for self-exploration, reflection, and skill building. I utilize Attachment, Self-Regulation, and Competency (ARC), EMDR, ACT, TF-CBT, DBT, ERP & performance enhancement strategies.
I hold certificates in traumatic stress and adoption competent treatment with extensive training in EMDR, ARC, TF-CBT and performance enhancement techniques.
I work in NJ & VT with adolescents, young adults and adults who feel stuck and are seeking to address their blocks to improve their overall functioning across domains of life. My background is rooted in clinical social work practice and trauma-informed care. I pull from many evidence-based practices and offer compassion, empathy, authenticity and humor in service of creating a psychologically safe place that can be utilized for self-exploration, reflection, and skill building. I utilize Attachment, Self-Regulation, and Competency (ARC), EMDR, ACT, TF-CBT, DBT, ERP & performance enhancement strategies.
View
Photo of Sandra Nigolian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Sandra Nigolian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401
I have experience with acute mental health crisis, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, substance misuse, and a variety of other life situations.
Life presents challenges sometimes. Learning how to access our resiliency, explore negative thought patterns, and strengthen new positive beliefs assists us in creating and maintaining a thriving daily life. I recognize that each person is diverse, having a unique family, social, and cultural history, and that healing and growth can be dependent on numerous factors. I use therapy methods that help bridge communication with children, youth and adults. I hold also hold BA in studio art that contributes to the creativity element of my work with individuals.
I have experience with acute mental health crisis, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, adoption, ADHD, substance misuse, and a variety of other life situations.
Life presents challenges sometimes. Learning how to access our resiliency, explore negative thought patterns, and strengthen new positive beliefs assists us in creating and maintaining a thriving daily life. I recognize that each person is diverse, having a unique family, social, and cultural history, and that healing and growth can be dependent on numerous factors. I use therapy methods that help bridge communication with children, youth and adults. I hold also hold BA in studio art that contributes to the creativity element of my work with individuals.
(802) 255-9991 View (802) 255-9991
Photo of Al VanNorden, Pre-Licensed Professional
Al VanNorden
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
South Burlington, VT 05403
I’ve also worked with clients navigating challenges such as family dynamics, educational barriers, foster care, adoption, parenting, and more.
Accepting New Clients (May 2025) - I offer a supportive, therapeutic environment where you can harness your innate strengths and work toward your goals. Rooted in trust and unconditional positive regard, our work together will focus on developing practical strategies to navigate life’s challenges and promote long-term wellbeing. Through a collaborative approach, we will empower you to build the skills to create a meaningful and fulfilling life that aligns with your psychological needs.
I’ve also worked with clients navigating challenges such as family dynamics, educational barriers, foster care, adoption, parenting, and more.
Accepting New Clients (May 2025) - I offer a supportive, therapeutic environment where you can harness your innate strengths and work toward your goals. Rooted in trust and unconditional positive regard, our work together will focus on developing practical strategies to navigate life’s challenges and promote long-term wellbeing. Through a collaborative approach, we will empower you to build the skills to create a meaningful and fulfilling life that aligns with your psychological needs.
(802) 520-0582 View (802) 520-0582

See more therapy options for Saint Albans

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.