Adoption Counselling in Darlington

Photo of Darren Gallagher - Darren Gallagher, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Darren Gallagher
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darlington DL3
I have specialist experience of working with loss, separation pre-bereavement and bereavement; stress; anxiety; attachment; low mood; self-esteem; grief; anger; domestic abuse; care experienced; adoption; neurodiversity; gender; sexuality and relationships.
Hi, I’m an accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (UKCP/ MBACP) with a specialism of working with children, young people and adult clients. I am trained in EMDR (Masterclass) and have many years experience working with children and families within settings, such as schools, hospices, charities, clinical settings, LAC teams and in the community – Like Violet Oaklander says ‘Play can be a serious business’. I am a humanistic, ‘integrative’ practitioner, so I use different methods to develop a warm, friendly relationship based on individual needs, respect and accepting the person as a whole – in other words - ‘I’m Ok – You’re Ok’.
I have specialist experience of working with loss, separation pre-bereavement and bereavement; stress; anxiety; attachment; low mood; self-esteem; grief; anger; domestic abuse; care experienced; adoption; neurodiversity; gender; sexuality and relationships.
Hi, I’m an accredited Psychotherapeutic Counsellor (UKCP/ MBACP) with a specialism of working with children, young people and adult clients. I am trained in EMDR (Masterclass) and have many years experience working with children and families within settings, such as schools, hospices, charities, clinical settings, LAC teams and in the community – Like Violet Oaklander says ‘Play can be a serious business’. I am a humanistic, ‘integrative’ practitioner, so I use different methods to develop a warm, friendly relationship based on individual needs, respect and accepting the person as a whole – in other words - ‘I’m Ok – You’re Ok’.
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Photo of David Benjamin, BACP, Counsellor
David Benjamin
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Darlington DL13
As a Trauma Informed therapist and supervisor I offer confidential one to one sessions for issues including anxiety and trauma. Face to face or video call. As an adopted adult, I've experienced my own attachment issues that come with this and can work through these with you in a trauma informed way. You will be made to feel welcome and safe as we work together.
As a Trauma Informed therapist and supervisor I offer confidential one to one sessions for issues including anxiety and trauma. Face to face or video call. As an adopted adult, I've experienced my own attachment issues that come with this and can work through these with you in a trauma informed way. You will be made to feel welcome and safe as we work together.
01642 680994 View 01642 680994
Photo of Nicola Jones - Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Darlington DL3
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
01325 809788 View 01325 809788
Photo of Caroline Harvey, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Caroline Harvey
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Darlington DL3
I am a BPC registered Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist and HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist with a private practice in Darlington, providing Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy to adults in the North East of England. I have helped many people, both in private practice and the NHS, overcome problems including those related to anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, relationships, stress, low self-esteem, loss, life transitions, or medically unexplained symptoms. Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy can also be effective when you are experiencing a more general sense of dissatisfaction in life, helping you work towards greater fulfilment.
I am a BPC registered Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist and HCPC registered Clinical Psychologist with a private practice in Darlington, providing Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy to adults in the North East of England. I have helped many people, both in private practice and the NHS, overcome problems including those related to anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, relationships, stress, low self-esteem, loss, life transitions, or medically unexplained symptoms. Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy can also be effective when you are experiencing a more general sense of dissatisfaction in life, helping you work towards greater fulfilment.
01325 808146 View 01325 808146
Photo of Emma Moore, MBACP, Counsellor
Emma Moore
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Darlington DL1
Waitlist for new clients
Modern life throws many pressures and challenges our way and many of us find it difficult to admit that we're struggling. Often fear of judgement prevents us from reaching out for help. This is where therapy can come in. My work in a Mental Health Primary Care Team & roles in the community have provided me with experience of in working in many areas of psychological distress such as: Low self-esteem Interpersonal relationship problems/ breakdowns Depression Anxiety Bereavement/Loss Trauma Domestic abuse Bullying Social isolation/ Loneliness Sexuality/ gender confusion Homelessness Feeling a failure/ lost in life.
Modern life throws many pressures and challenges our way and many of us find it difficult to admit that we're struggling. Often fear of judgement prevents us from reaching out for help. This is where therapy can come in. My work in a Mental Health Primary Care Team & roles in the community have provided me with experience of in working in many areas of psychological distress such as: Low self-esteem Interpersonal relationship problems/ breakdowns Depression Anxiety Bereavement/Loss Trauma Domestic abuse Bullying Social isolation/ Loneliness Sexuality/ gender confusion Homelessness Feeling a failure/ lost in life.
01642 130423 View 01642 130423
Photo of Beverley Ann D'Arcy - Changing Minds Psychotherapy, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Changing Minds Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Darlington DL1
17 years as a psychotherapist providing therapy to people with complex and enduring mental health problems (mainly NHS) and clients with mild to moderate mental health issues referred by organisations. I carry out in depth assessments, quickly identify key issues and tailor therapy according to client need. I offer a confidential setting where clients are free to talk without fear of rejection, criticism of blame. I aim to provide someone with resources they can draw on to manage current and future anxiety, stresses, disabling symptoms and unstable moods.
17 years as a psychotherapist providing therapy to people with complex and enduring mental health problems (mainly NHS) and clients with mild to moderate mental health issues referred by organisations. I carry out in depth assessments, quickly identify key issues and tailor therapy according to client need. I offer a confidential setting where clients are free to talk without fear of rejection, criticism of blame. I aim to provide someone with resources they can draw on to manage current and future anxiety, stresses, disabling symptoms and unstable moods.
01969 607005 View 01969 607005
Photo of Dr Jane Bourne, PhD, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Dr Jane Bourne
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Darlington DL11
I am a psychotherapist, BABCP registered Cognitive Behaviour Therapist (CBT) and HCPC registered Arts therapist and. I work for the NHS and run a private practice specialising in mental health and well being. I am able to work creatively to help my clients to engage even if the talking therapies are difficult. I have a good track record with low mood and anxiety and getting my clients back on their feet and living their lives to the full.
I am a psychotherapist, BABCP registered Cognitive Behaviour Therapist (CBT) and HCPC registered Arts therapist and. I work for the NHS and run a private practice specialising in mental health and well being. I am able to work creatively to help my clients to engage even if the talking therapies are difficult. I have a good track record with low mood and anxiety and getting my clients back on their feet and living their lives to the full.
01642 688422 View 01642 688422
Photo of Tracy McGlade, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Tracy McGlade
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Darlington DL1
Not accepting new clients
Hi! I'm Tracy. Thank you for taking a look at my profile. I know that it's difficult to choose a psychotherapist, so here is a bit about me and if you'd like a chat before meeting, let me know. I recognise how important the therapeutic relationship is, so initial contact is about creating a safe space for us to work together. We will focus on your goals for therapy and develop a collaborative understanding of your story, and what may be contributing towards any difficulties. I am trained to work with a variety of difficulties from depression, anxiety, trauma, self-worth and family difficulties, amongst many others.
Hi! I'm Tracy. Thank you for taking a look at my profile. I know that it's difficult to choose a psychotherapist, so here is a bit about me and if you'd like a chat before meeting, let me know. I recognise how important the therapeutic relationship is, so initial contact is about creating a safe space for us to work together. We will focus on your goals for therapy and develop a collaborative understanding of your story, and what may be contributing towards any difficulties. I am trained to work with a variety of difficulties from depression, anxiety, trauma, self-worth and family difficulties, amongst many others.
01642 056291 View 01642 056291

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cheryl Lyn Burgess, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Cheryl Lyn Burgess
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newton Aycliffe DL5
Are you anxious, stressed, overwhelmed, suffering panic attacks, depression, negative thoughts, relationship issues, loss or bereavement? I can help. I also specialise in attachment and childhood trauma. I work with adult adoptees, adults generally, parents and carers of children with attachment issues/childhood trauma or those identifying as neurodiverse to support these challenges. As a fully qualified, relational Integrative Psychotherapist, I offer a practical, person-centred, tailored therapy blending in other concepts and interventions based on individual needs. Please see my website achievewellbeingtherapy.co.uk
Are you anxious, stressed, overwhelmed, suffering panic attacks, depression, negative thoughts, relationship issues, loss or bereavement? I can help. I also specialise in attachment and childhood trauma. I work with adult adoptees, adults generally, parents and carers of children with attachment issues/childhood trauma or those identifying as neurodiverse to support these challenges. As a fully qualified, relational Integrative Psychotherapist, I offer a practical, person-centred, tailored therapy blending in other concepts and interventions based on individual needs. Please see my website achievewellbeingtherapy.co.uk
01325 809975 View 01325 809975

Online Therapists

Photo of Anne Andrieux, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Anne Andrieux
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Skipton BD23
Whether your child is dealing with self-esteem issues, grief and loss of a loved one, abuse, trauma, adoption issues, or eating disorders, I am here to help.
I am a passionate and dedicated therapist specializing in working with children and young people. With years of experience in school settings, I have seen first-hand the remarkable positive impact that comes from truly seeing and hearing young individuals. I tailor therapy to each individual's needs, incorporating therapeutic play and expressive art therapy for younger clients. My approach fosters a trusting, non-judgmental environment where clients can thrive. As a French therapist, I understand the complexity of different cultures and am respectful of that, bringing a unique perspective to my practice.
Whether your child is dealing with self-esteem issues, grief and loss of a loved one, abuse, trauma, adoption issues, or eating disorders, I am here to help.
I am a passionate and dedicated therapist specializing in working with children and young people. With years of experience in school settings, I have seen first-hand the remarkable positive impact that comes from truly seeing and hearing young individuals. I tailor therapy to each individual's needs, incorporating therapeutic play and expressive art therapy for younger clients. My approach fosters a trusting, non-judgmental environment where clients can thrive. As a French therapist, I understand the complexity of different cultures and am respectful of that, bringing a unique perspective to my practice.
01756 633436 View 01756 633436
Photo of Fiona Astbury, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Fiona Astbury
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Cheadle SK8
I offer counselling support to adults affected by adoption, who seek help and support in processing their thoughts and feelings around their adoption experience.
Hello, I can offer you a calm safe environment to explore your feelings or the difficulties you are experiencing. I have experience in working with adopted adults, birth parents and adopters including family members, I recognise the lifelong impact of adoption and all involved in the adoption triangle. Through counselling we can explore your thoughts, feelings and the choices available to you. To help you gain a clearer understanding of yourself and to help you explore and identify ways to move forward.
I offer counselling support to adults affected by adoption, who seek help and support in processing their thoughts and feelings around their adoption experience.
Hello, I can offer you a calm safe environment to explore your feelings or the difficulties you are experiencing. I have experience in working with adopted adults, birth parents and adopters including family members, I recognise the lifelong impact of adoption and all involved in the adoption triangle. Through counselling we can explore your thoughts, feelings and the choices available to you. To help you gain a clearer understanding of yourself and to help you explore and identify ways to move forward.
0161 524 0539 View 0161 524 0539
Photo of Phil Anthony Mawson-Lees - Philip Anthony Counselling, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Philip Anthony Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leigh WN7
I have experience with anxiety, teens, ADHD, self-esteem, discrimination, harassment, grief, adoption, abuse etc.
Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. Talking about personal issues can be difficult but I am here to support your individual needs. I work with children, young people, and adults. Contacting a counsellor can scary if you have never done it before, but please be assured we will move at your own speed in your own time. You can contact me via email or phone, then decide after the free initial consultation if you want to continue. Limited Concessions for students. (Student I.D required). Individuals face to face, zoom or phone. DBS Checked. Memberships: BACP, BPS
I have experience with anxiety, teens, ADHD, self-esteem, discrimination, harassment, grief, adoption, abuse etc.
Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. Talking about personal issues can be difficult but I am here to support your individual needs. I work with children, young people, and adults. Contacting a counsellor can scary if you have never done it before, but please be assured we will move at your own speed in your own time. You can contact me via email or phone, then decide after the free initial consultation if you want to continue. Limited Concessions for students. (Student I.D required). Individuals face to face, zoom or phone. DBS Checked. Memberships: BACP, BPS
01663 798323 View 01663 798323
Photo of Rosana Vieira Roy, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Rosana Vieira Roy
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Redcar TS10  (Online Only)
One area of experience and special interest for me is attachment which affects all of us, as well as trauma and the experience of adoption.
I offer a confidential, safe space and time for clients to explore any concerns or problems they are experiencing. During our sessions you will have the opportunity to discuss whatever issues you are struggling with in order to reach a deeper understanding of yourself, others and your circumstances, and most crucially to identify anything that you wish to change and work towards your goals. Together in our sessions, I will work sensitively so as to strengthen and empower you in the here-and-now to deal with recent events, on-going or long-standing issues that may have surfaced in your life.
One area of experience and special interest for me is attachment which affects all of us, as well as trauma and the experience of adoption.
I offer a confidential, safe space and time for clients to explore any concerns or problems they are experiencing. During our sessions you will have the opportunity to discuss whatever issues you are struggling with in order to reach a deeper understanding of yourself, others and your circumstances, and most crucially to identify anything that you wish to change and work towards your goals. Together in our sessions, I will work sensitively so as to strengthen and empower you in the here-and-now to deal with recent events, on-going or long-standing issues that may have surfaced in your life.
01642 967496 View 01642 967496
Photo of Sarah Savage, MBACP, Counsellor
Sarah Savage
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wilmslow SK9
I also work with individuals and couples for miscarriage, pregnancy loss, involuntary childlessness or the adoption process.
I am passionate in helping clients to take the right steps for them. I support you, to make a difference or find an acceptance in everyday life. I work with my clients in exploring the difficulties fears re experiencing and we work to gain an understanding of thoughts and feelings. Their emotional disturbance can be discussed and put in to perspective to help make changes to the unhealthy thought or behavioural patterns. Sometimes, addressing where the negative beliefs have originated from, helps to find the positive changes and overcomes the difficulties. Giving clients a new awareness, growth and belief.
I also work with individuals and couples for miscarriage, pregnancy loss, involuntary childlessness or the adoption process.
I am passionate in helping clients to take the right steps for them. I support you, to make a difference or find an acceptance in everyday life. I work with my clients in exploring the difficulties fears re experiencing and we work to gain an understanding of thoughts and feelings. Their emotional disturbance can be discussed and put in to perspective to help make changes to the unhealthy thought or behavioural patterns. Sometimes, addressing where the negative beliefs have originated from, helps to find the positive changes and overcomes the difficulties. Giving clients a new awareness, growth and belief.
01625 380490 View 01625 380490
Photo of Lyndsey Waugh, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lyndsey Waugh
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3
My particular area of interest and expertise is Trauma, Personality Disorders, Anxiety, Adoption, Depression, Sexual Issues, Therapeutic Parenting as well as Training Counselling Therapeutic Skills.
I am a professionally qualified psychotherapist, supervisor and trainer. Establishing in private practice in 2013, with private practices in Gosforth and Monkseaton. My knowledge and skills have developed through my psychotherapeutic work in private practice, I will share this knowledge with you where it would be helpful, to enable you to develop tools to use in everyday life beyond therapy. I’m particularly proud of my track record over the last nearly 10 years as a Psychotherapist & in practice, I consider myself friendly and warming, my passion, innovative ideas and solutions particularly around psycho-education with and adults.
My particular area of interest and expertise is Trauma, Personality Disorders, Anxiety, Adoption, Depression, Sexual Issues, Therapeutic Parenting as well as Training Counselling Therapeutic Skills.
I am a professionally qualified psychotherapist, supervisor and trainer. Establishing in private practice in 2013, with private practices in Gosforth and Monkseaton. My knowledge and skills have developed through my psychotherapeutic work in private practice, I will share this knowledge with you where it would be helpful, to enable you to develop tools to use in everyday life beyond therapy. I’m particularly proud of my track record over the last nearly 10 years as a Psychotherapist & in practice, I consider myself friendly and warming, my passion, innovative ideas and solutions particularly around psycho-education with and adults.
0191 743 9785 View 0191 743 9785
Photo of Kerrie McCabe, BACP, Counsellor
Kerrie McCabe
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Stockton-on-Tees TS20
I have experience of working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, bereavement, post-traumatic stress disorder, adoption, family dynamics, attachment issues and relationship difficulties.
Hello, and a very warm welcome. My name is Kerrie, and I am a qualified Counsellor. I am a member of The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and adhere to their code of ethics. Counselling allows you to discuss any problems and difficult feelings you are experiencing in a relaxed, safe, and confidential environment. The Counselling process gives you the opportunity to talk about your problems enabling you to develop an understanding and insight into your thoughts, feelings, behaviors and issues. A plan of action may be looked at to either help you resolve your issues or help you to find ways of coping.
I have experience of working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, bereavement, post-traumatic stress disorder, adoption, family dynamics, attachment issues and relationship difficulties.
Hello, and a very warm welcome. My name is Kerrie, and I am a qualified Counsellor. I am a member of The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and adhere to their code of ethics. Counselling allows you to discuss any problems and difficult feelings you are experiencing in a relaxed, safe, and confidential environment. The Counselling process gives you the opportunity to talk about your problems enabling you to develop an understanding and insight into your thoughts, feelings, behaviors and issues. A plan of action may be looked at to either help you resolve your issues or help you to find ways of coping.
01642 988107 View 01642 988107
Photo of Melissa Lomas, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Melissa Lomas
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Sheffield S36
Hi I'm Melissa, I'm an experienced Counsellor offering Person Centred Counselling to Individuals and Couples on weekdays by appointment. Person Centred Counselling is an approach which empowers the client and allows them to determine the direction Counselling may go in so that they can address, process and resolve the issues they have brought to Counselling. I am also an approved Adoption Support Counsellor. This work legally requires specialist training which I completed in 2023 with the Barnardo's LINK Certificate in Adoption Support Counselling. This covers Counselling for Adoptees, Adoptive parents, Birth parents and Family.
Hi I'm Melissa, I'm an experienced Counsellor offering Person Centred Counselling to Individuals and Couples on weekdays by appointment. Person Centred Counselling is an approach which empowers the client and allows them to determine the direction Counselling may go in so that they can address, process and resolve the issues they have brought to Counselling. I am also an approved Adoption Support Counsellor. This work legally requires specialist training which I completed in 2023 with the Barnardo's LINK Certificate in Adoption Support Counselling. This covers Counselling for Adoptees, Adoptive parents, Birth parents and Family.
0114 303 2993 View 0114 303 2993
Photo of Elizabeth Oyewole - Succour Empowering Equality Counselling, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Succour Empowering Equality Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Hull HU3
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 Sultana Begum - Care for me Counselling Services, MBACP, Counsellor
Care for me Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oldham OL2
My name is Sultana I am an experienced MBACP Integrative Person-Centred Counsellor, I offer a private, confidential, and non-judgemental space for you to explore and discuss your concerns and difficulties. I offer therapeutic intervention on Mental Health Issues such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and phobias. I have high success in couples counselling and have supported clients going through loss, trauma, separation and divorce. Whatever the issue I hope to work together to explore and unpack the patterns of thought, core beliefs and behaviours that are preventing you from living your life fully and authentically.
My name is Sultana I am an experienced MBACP Integrative Person-Centred Counsellor, I offer a private, confidential, and non-judgemental space for you to explore and discuss your concerns and difficulties. I offer therapeutic intervention on Mental Health Issues such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and phobias. I have high success in couples counselling and have supported clients going through loss, trauma, separation and divorce. Whatever the issue I hope to work together to explore and unpack the patterns of thought, core beliefs and behaviours that are preventing you from living your life fully and authentically.
07449 850608 View 07449 850608
Photo of Sally Eccleston, PhD, HCPC - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Sally Eccleston
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
High Peak SK23
Welcome! My name is Dr. Sally Eccleston and I’m a registered psychologist specialising in a somatic approach to therapy, who works with adults, children, families and schools. I can help you or your child if you are experiencing anxiety and stress, or fear, anger, shutdown or PTSD as a result of trauma. My approach is unique as I offer therapeutic work combining my training in psychology and yoga which is very bespoke to each individual. If you are looking for sessions which combine body orientated therapeutic support with positive psychology and solution focused work, please do reach out for a chat.
Welcome! My name is Dr. Sally Eccleston and I’m a registered psychologist specialising in a somatic approach to therapy, who works with adults, children, families and schools. I can help you or your child if you are experiencing anxiety and stress, or fear, anger, shutdown or PTSD as a result of trauma. My approach is unique as I offer therapeutic work combining my training in psychology and yoga which is very bespoke to each individual. If you are looking for sessions which combine body orientated therapeutic support with positive psychology and solution focused work, please do reach out for a chat.
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See more therapy options for Darlington

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.