Adoption Counselling in Bexleyheath

Photo of Helen McNally, MBACP, Counsellor
Helen McNally
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bexleyheath DA7
Hi my name is Helen, I am passionate about counselling and the positive change it can bring. Together we can explore difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing in a safe, supportive, non-judgemental, confidential way. My training allows me to access different interventions which can be tailored to benefit and support each unique client. Sharing your feelings may be the first step. My aim is to help gain emotional strength to affect change in your life.
Hi my name is Helen, I am passionate about counselling and the positive change it can bring. Together we can explore difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing in a safe, supportive, non-judgemental, confidential way. My training allows me to access different interventions which can be tailored to benefit and support each unique client. Sharing your feelings may be the first step. My aim is to help gain emotional strength to affect change in your life.
01322 923877 x077651 View 01322 923877 x077651
Photo of Karen Carey, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Carey
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bexleyheath DA6
Has life become unmanageable- do you have no idea why you feel this way - are you feeling isolated from others, grief, loneliness, anxiety, anger and loss of tolerance: At times life can become overwhelming - no balance between home and work - stress - problematic relationships, your individual issues will be unique to you and very real, don’t dismiss them as unimportant and let’s work through them together. Couples that require an outside perspective on their relationship -
Has life become unmanageable- do you have no idea why you feel this way - are you feeling isolated from others, grief, loneliness, anxiety, anger and loss of tolerance: At times life can become overwhelming - no balance between home and work - stress - problematic relationships, your individual issues will be unique to you and very real, don’t dismiss them as unimportant and let’s work through them together. Couples that require an outside perspective on their relationship -
01322 250449 View 01322 250449
Photo of Charli Downes - Counselling Matters Bexley, BACP, Counsellor
Counselling Matters Bexley
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Bexleyheath DA6
At counselling matters Bexley we work with adults and young people (5-18 years) who are experiencing difficulties such as stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, self-harm, anger problems and more. Our affordable counselling costs per session are £33 face to face or £28 online/phone. Our affordable CBT sessions cost £40 face to face or £35 online/phone. We also offer affordable sessions with 4th year trainee counsellors for £25 face to face or £20 online/phone. We also offer family therapy at £45 face to face or £40 online. We offer NLP sessions at £40 face to face or £35 online/phone.
At counselling matters Bexley we work with adults and young people (5-18 years) who are experiencing difficulties such as stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, self-harm, anger problems and more. Our affordable counselling costs per session are £33 face to face or £28 online/phone. Our affordable CBT sessions cost £40 face to face or £35 online/phone. We also offer affordable sessions with 4th year trainee counsellors for £25 face to face or £20 online/phone. We also offer family therapy at £45 face to face or £40 online. We offer NLP sessions at £40 face to face or £35 online/phone.
020 4538 7119 View 020 4538 7119
Photo of Bilkan Kilicer, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Bilkan Kilicer
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bexleyheath DA6
Hello there, I understand that this can be an apprehensive place to start, but I would like to offer you a warm welcoming, safe, supportive, and non - judgmental space where you can be heard, reflecting and working together any underlying issues or any difficulties that may have affected you. I am a qualified Integrative counsellor, which means that I use different therapeutic approaches to support your needs. Counselling allows me to put myself "in your shoes", understand the way that it is affecting you, then by working together we can achieve those barriers to fulfil our lives to the fullest.
Hello there, I understand that this can be an apprehensive place to start, but I would like to offer you a warm welcoming, safe, supportive, and non - judgmental space where you can be heard, reflecting and working together any underlying issues or any difficulties that may have affected you. I am a qualified Integrative counsellor, which means that I use different therapeutic approaches to support your needs. Counselling allows me to put myself "in your shoes", understand the way that it is affecting you, then by working together we can achieve those barriers to fulfil our lives to the fullest.
07592 304454 View 07592 304454

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Denise Quadrucci, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Denise Quadrucci
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Croydon CR0  (Online Only)
I have worked within fostering and adoption, Couple and family Counselling, Bereavement and Youth Counselling. My experience comes from having worked within a variety of family and child settings, a counselling service for young people, a hospice as a bereavement counsellor, and supporting couples in their relationships. I work with families who foster and the secondary trauma that they can also experience. Although I have been trained in the psychodynamic approach, I work using other models to best suit and help individuals explore and become aware of blocks in their lives, working towards making changes.
I have worked within fostering and adoption, Couple and family Counselling, Bereavement and Youth Counselling. My experience comes from having worked within a variety of family and child settings, a counselling service for young people, a hospice as a bereavement counsellor, and supporting couples in their relationships. I work with families who foster and the secondary trauma that they can also experience. Although I have been trained in the psychodynamic approach, I work using other models to best suit and help individuals explore and become aware of blocks in their lives, working towards making changes.
07446 289260 View 07446 289260
Photo of Garry Michael Brennan, MBACP, Counsellor
Garry Michael Brennan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bromley BR1  (Online Only)
I specialise in the area of adoption but I cover a range of issues such as loss, bereavement, relationship problems, anxiety, stress, depression, domestic violence, sexuality and identity issues and sexual abuse.
Starting therapy can be a daunting experience and so my aim is to help you feel at ease by working in a straightforward, empathic and down to earth way in order to help you overcome the obstacles that are stopping you from leading a meaningful and authentic life. I am an active person-centred counsellor who will work hard alongside you in order to help you understand the roots of your difficulties. I am an experienced counsellor who has particular experience around trauma and attachment issues due to my long experience in working in the world of adoption as both a social worker and therapist
I specialise in the area of adoption but I cover a range of issues such as loss, bereavement, relationship problems, anxiety, stress, depression, domestic violence, sexuality and identity issues and sexual abuse.
Starting therapy can be a daunting experience and so my aim is to help you feel at ease by working in a straightforward, empathic and down to earth way in order to help you overcome the obstacles that are stopping you from leading a meaningful and authentic life. I am an active person-centred counsellor who will work hard alongside you in order to help you understand the roots of your difficulties. I am an experienced counsellor who has particular experience around trauma and attachment issues due to my long experience in working in the world of adoption as both a social worker and therapist
07723 562533 View 07723 562533
Photo of Amy Moon, MA
Amy Moon
MA
Verified Verified
London SE23
Many children have difficulties in their lives such as family break up, challenging behaviour, bullying, life upheaval, loss and bereavement, fostering and adoption.
I am a child-centred play therapist working with children, primarily from 4-12 years of age. I provide a safe, empathetic and accepting space for your child to explore what is troubling them. My approach is play based and primarily non-directive. However, for some children a slightly more directive approach can be helpful. Each child is unique, therefore the sessions will be tailored to your child and meeting their individual needs. A play based approach can be useful for children who may find it difficult to express how they feel into words.
Many children have difficulties in their lives such as family break up, challenging behaviour, bullying, life upheaval, loss and bereavement, fostering and adoption.
I am a child-centred play therapist working with children, primarily from 4-12 years of age. I provide a safe, empathetic and accepting space for your child to explore what is troubling them. My approach is play based and primarily non-directive. However, for some children a slightly more directive approach can be helpful. Each child is unique, therefore the sessions will be tailored to your child and meeting their individual needs. A play based approach can be useful for children who may find it difficult to express how they feel into words.
020 3912 8139 View 020 3912 8139
Photo of Olivia Djouadi, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Olivia Djouadi
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bromley BR1  (Online Only)
Your life can start to go in a new direction from the resources gained in therapy. I have been working over a decade as a UKCP psychotherapist in helping people to begin again or improve where they are in life. My experience assists those with dissociation, trauma, stress, adoption and situations that have a negative affect on life. I can help you take the steps to a new you. It can feel lonely sitting with a feelings that remain present. I have lived in 8 countries so know moving is not simple and can leave difficult feelings. I am also trained to give the SCID-D assessment for a psychological diagnosis in dissociative disorders.
Your life can start to go in a new direction from the resources gained in therapy. I have been working over a decade as a UKCP psychotherapist in helping people to begin again or improve where they are in life. My experience assists those with dissociation, trauma, stress, adoption and situations that have a negative affect on life. I can help you take the steps to a new you. It can feel lonely sitting with a feelings that remain present. I have lived in 8 countries so know moving is not simple and can leave difficult feelings. I am also trained to give the SCID-D assessment for a psychological diagnosis in dissociative disorders.
020 3984 9310 View 020 3984 9310
Photo of Elizabeth Oyewole - Succour Empowering Equality Counselling, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Succour Empowering Equality Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London E16
I offer Person-centred, Trauma Focused, and Adoption Support Therapy.
Are you noticing and experiencing feelings of worry, and unable to shake it off? Are you increasingly tearful, sad, with low mood, low appetite, experiencing disturbed sleep/lack of a good quality sleep, nightmares, and tiredness? Feeling like something bad is going to happen? If so, do not be alone in your feelings, let's talk about it.
I offer Person-centred, Trauma Focused, and Adoption Support Therapy.
Are you noticing and experiencing feelings of worry, and unable to shake it off? Are you increasingly tearful, sad, with low mood, low appetite, experiencing disturbed sleep/lack of a good quality sleep, nightmares, and tiredness? Feeling like something bad is going to happen? If so, do not be alone in your feelings, let's talk about it.
01482 251689 View 01482 251689
Photo of Lola Fasehun, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lola Fasehun
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E15  (Online Only)
Would you like a safe space where your difficulties can be explored and real change can happen? My name's Lola and I've been a qualified psychotherapist for over 19 years with experience in assisting anyone who needs a reliable & confidential space in which to explore issues & difficulties. I can work with you on a range of issues including; Anxiety, Depression, Low moods, Trauma, Bereavement, Abuse (sexual/physical/psychological) Self esteem, Race & identity, Adoption & Smoking cessation. I offer online or telephone sessions. Fee is £70 a session (lower for those on low incomes). Currently taking bookings for mornings/evenings
Would you like a safe space where your difficulties can be explored and real change can happen? My name's Lola and I've been a qualified psychotherapist for over 19 years with experience in assisting anyone who needs a reliable & confidential space in which to explore issues & difficulties. I can work with you on a range of issues including; Anxiety, Depression, Low moods, Trauma, Bereavement, Abuse (sexual/physical/psychological) Self esteem, Race & identity, Adoption & Smoking cessation. I offer online or telephone sessions. Fee is £70 a session (lower for those on low incomes). Currently taking bookings for mornings/evenings
07723 496194 View 07723 496194
Photo of Maria Marchant, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Maria Marchant
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Chislehurst BR7
I have experience of working with clients on issues such as depression and low mood, anxiety, loss and bereavement, low self-esteem, anger management, abuse, relationships difficulties, work related issues, addiction, exam stress, child and adolescent issues, adoption and fostering, health issues, personal development and general counselling.
I am an Accredited BACP Therapist & Supervisor. If you are considering how therapy can support you through challenging life events, I can support you by offering a safe & confidential space in which you can begin to examine what may feel impossible right now to resolve by yourself; without fear of being judged and experience, perhaps for the first time, a real feeling of being heard. I work by helping you to explore your thoughts, emotions & life story so far, with the aim of both of us understanding & together making sense of the difficulties you are experiencing. Together, we will then seek a way of moving forward positively.
I have experience of working with clients on issues such as depression and low mood, anxiety, loss and bereavement, low self-esteem, anger management, abuse, relationships difficulties, work related issues, addiction, exam stress, child and adolescent issues, adoption and fostering, health issues, personal development and general counselling.
I am an Accredited BACP Therapist & Supervisor. If you are considering how therapy can support you through challenging life events, I can support you by offering a safe & confidential space in which you can begin to examine what may feel impossible right now to resolve by yourself; without fear of being judged and experience, perhaps for the first time, a real feeling of being heard. I work by helping you to explore your thoughts, emotions & life story so far, with the aim of both of us understanding & together making sense of the difficulties you are experiencing. Together, we will then seek a way of moving forward positively.
07476 551643 View 07476 551643
Photo of Henrietta Priddie, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Henrietta Priddie
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London E1
I have experience of working with clients of all ages on various issues affecting their well-being, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, anger, identity, body dysphoria, neurodiversity, trauma, abuse, PTSD, bereavement and loss, divorce and separation, family conflict, and fostering and adoption.
I am a UKCP-qualified integrative child, adolescent, parent and adult psychotherapist working across a wide range of areas and interests and have over 20 years of experience working in the mental health sector. I offer a safe space to allow clients the opportunity to explore presenting issues freely and in depth. I believe that compassion, empathy and the alliance between the therapist and client are the keys to therapeutic change. I am also passionate about supporting women in their journey through life and parents struggling with the complexities of raising a child in an ever-changing world.
I have experience of working with clients of all ages on various issues affecting their well-being, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, anger, identity, body dysphoria, neurodiversity, trauma, abuse, PTSD, bereavement and loss, divorce and separation, family conflict, and fostering and adoption.
I am a UKCP-qualified integrative child, adolescent, parent and adult psychotherapist working across a wide range of areas and interests and have over 20 years of experience working in the mental health sector. I offer a safe space to allow clients the opportunity to explore presenting issues freely and in depth. I believe that compassion, empathy and the alliance between the therapist and client are the keys to therapeutic change. I am also passionate about supporting women in their journey through life and parents struggling with the complexities of raising a child in an ever-changing world.
020 3987 1816 View 020 3987 1816
Photo of Eve Hanley, BACP, Counsellor
Eve Hanley
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
London E1
I offer both counselling and supervision to adults, couples. adolescents and parents. My main counselling focus areas are working with neurodivergent clients, students and clients who have experienced domestic abuse and trauma. I am adoption registered as a link therapist with Banardos . As a counsellor, I believe in the essential need to create a space where you set the pace and we work together to look how this would work for you. Sometimes we don't know what this starting point is or direction an intial session can help to focus on an area to begin.As a supervisor my supervisees work in agencies, private practice and schools.
I offer both counselling and supervision to adults, couples. adolescents and parents. My main counselling focus areas are working with neurodivergent clients, students and clients who have experienced domestic abuse and trauma. I am adoption registered as a link therapist with Banardos . As a counsellor, I believe in the essential need to create a space where you set the pace and we work together to look how this would work for you. Sometimes we don't know what this starting point is or direction an intial session can help to focus on an area to begin.As a supervisor my supervisees work in agencies, private practice and schools.
01227 203901 View 01227 203901
Photo of Erica Jane Ruse Whalley, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Erica Jane Ruse Whalley
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
West Wickham BR4  (Online Only)
It is particularly effectively with adoption and fostering and all areas of attachment, loss and all emotional areas.
Hi, sometimes it no longer seems enough to talk to friends or family, and we need further support and insight to get back on track. I work with adults, teenagers and children, offering a range of therapeutic methods, to find which suit you best. I am a fully trained and accredited Counsellor with the British Assiciation of Counselling and Psychologists, I am trained in person centred, Psycho- dynamic and CBT and I offer many creative techniques such as Jungian Kallffian Sandplay which is a gentle but extremely effective way of working with children, teenagers and adults. I would really like to hear from you, please send a text (0781 209 7293) or email (stillvoice.ej@gmail.com) so that we can arrange a time for an initial phone call to discuss how I can help you.
It is particularly effectively with adoption and fostering and all areas of attachment, loss and all emotional areas.
Hi, sometimes it no longer seems enough to talk to friends or family, and we need further support and insight to get back on track. I work with adults, teenagers and children, offering a range of therapeutic methods, to find which suit you best. I am a fully trained and accredited Counsellor with the British Assiciation of Counselling and Psychologists, I am trained in person centred, Psycho- dynamic and CBT and I offer many creative techniques such as Jungian Kallffian Sandplay which is a gentle but extremely effective way of working with children, teenagers and adults. I would really like to hear from you, please send a text (0781 209 7293) or email (stillvoice.ej@gmail.com) so that we can arrange a time for an initial phone call to discuss how I can help you.
020 3962 1569 View 020 3962 1569
Photo of Sally Coombe, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sally Coombe
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London E11
Waitlist for new clients
I've supported people with many issues; anxiety, depression, postnatal depression, OCD, relationship difficulties, sexuality, identity, gender dysphoria, self esteem, self harm, abuse, adoption, trauma, bereavement/loss.
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
I've supported people with many issues; anxiety, depression, postnatal depression, OCD, relationship difficulties, sexuality, identity, gender dysphoria, self esteem, self harm, abuse, adoption, trauma, bereavement/loss.
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
01737 949810 View 01737 949810
Photo of Ekua Edufuah, MBACP, Counsellor
Ekua Edufuah
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E10
I work with a range of issues such as; mental health, trauma, bereavement, self esteem, identity, culture, religion, sexuality, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, adoption, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and domestic violence.
Whether you are new to counselling or returning, I can provide a safe and confidential space face to face or online. My Goal is to listen, help you explore issues that you wish to work through, at your own pace, without judgement or pressure. I work within the BACP's code of ethics and I am fully committed to ensuring confidentiality and safety to all my clients.
I work with a range of issues such as; mental health, trauma, bereavement, self esteem, identity, culture, religion, sexuality, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, adoption, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and domestic violence.
Whether you are new to counselling or returning, I can provide a safe and confidential space face to face or online. My Goal is to listen, help you explore issues that you wish to work through, at your own pace, without judgement or pressure. I work within the BACP's code of ethics and I am fully committed to ensuring confidentiality and safety to all my clients.
020 3962 0730 View 020 3962 0730
Photo of Manuel Navarro, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Manuel Navarro
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London SE15  (Online Only)
I am a systemic and family psychotherapist with 18 years of experience working in mental health services in the NHS.. I have experience working with children and adults who suffer from mental health or emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety and panic, and eating disorders. I also work with couples who are looking to improve their relationship, and I am registered with the Emotionally Focused Therapy Institute (ICEEFT). My approach to therapy recognises that the individual, as well as their family members all have strengths and strategies which can be used to overcome symptoms and difficulties.
I am a systemic and family psychotherapist with 18 years of experience working in mental health services in the NHS.. I have experience working with children and adults who suffer from mental health or emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety and panic, and eating disorders. I also work with couples who are looking to improve their relationship, and I am registered with the Emotionally Focused Therapy Institute (ICEEFT). My approach to therapy recognises that the individual, as well as their family members all have strengths and strategies which can be used to overcome symptoms and difficulties.
020 3962 0348 View 020 3962 0348
Photo of Fiona Fitzpatrick, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Fiona Fitzpatrick
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
London E1  (Online Only)
My name is Fiona Fitzpatrick and I am a registered Art Psychotherapist and EMDR Therapist working with children, young people and adults. I am passionate about how the creative process can heal and change a person, helping to understand ourselves and our circumstances & behaviour and with this awareness find acceptance and heal from suffering. You do not have to have any experience of art or any art skills to benefit from this therapy. I have 6 years experience of working with adopted children, children in school with emotional, behavioural and mental health issues and adults in the community as 1:1 therapy and group work
My name is Fiona Fitzpatrick and I am a registered Art Psychotherapist and EMDR Therapist working with children, young people and adults. I am passionate about how the creative process can heal and change a person, helping to understand ourselves and our circumstances & behaviour and with this awareness find acceptance and heal from suffering. You do not have to have any experience of art or any art skills to benefit from this therapy. I have 6 years experience of working with adopted children, children in school with emotional, behavioural and mental health issues and adults in the community as 1:1 therapy and group work
0191 580 4701 View 0191 580 4701
Photo of Sukhninder Thiara, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Sukhninder Thiara
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London E6
Hi, I'm Sukhninder (Sukh). I want to start by saying thank you for viewing my profile. I am a registered member of The British Association for Counselling (BACP) and a skilled and qualified psychodynamic counsellor along with training in CBT therapy. I've worked with both adults and young people. I offer both short and long-term therapy either in person, online or by telephone.I attend regular supervision to support my work and I am fully insured.
Hi, I'm Sukhninder (Sukh). I want to start by saying thank you for viewing my profile. I am a registered member of The British Association for Counselling (BACP) and a skilled and qualified psychodynamic counsellor along with training in CBT therapy. I've worked with both adults and young people. I offer both short and long-term therapy either in person, online or by telephone.I attend regular supervision to support my work and I am fully insured.
01753 978878 View 01753 978878
Photo of Adele Braun, ACP, Psychotherapist
Adele Braun
Psychotherapist, ACP
Verified Verified
London E15  (Online Only)
I have an MPsychpsych (6-year postgraduate training) and I am registered with the Association of Child Psychotherapists (ACP), for work with children and young people up to the age of 25, as well as parents, carers and professionals. I have 20 years of experience working with children and families, including clinical and leadership positions within the NHS and in many mainstream and specialist schools. Most recently, running a specialist CAMHS service within the NHS in West London and as a Visiting Lecturer on Postgraduate mental health courses at the Tavistock & Portman.
I have an MPsychpsych (6-year postgraduate training) and I am registered with the Association of Child Psychotherapists (ACP), for work with children and young people up to the age of 25, as well as parents, carers and professionals. I have 20 years of experience working with children and families, including clinical and leadership positions within the NHS and in many mainstream and specialist schools. Most recently, running a specialist CAMHS service within the NHS in West London and as a Visiting Lecturer on Postgraduate mental health courses at the Tavistock & Portman.
01992 927835 View 01992 927835

See more therapy options for Bexleyheath

Adoption Counsellors

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 behavioural 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, behavioural, 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.