Adoption Counselling in Huntingdon

Photo of Zoe O’Connor (Play Therapist), PTUK, Psychotherapist
Zoe O’Connor (Play Therapist)
Psychotherapist, PTUK
Verified Verified
Huntingdon PE26
Helpful for foster and adoption.
Hello, I’m Zoe. I am a play and creative arts therapist based in Bourne and I see children from 3 to 16. Do you know a child with big emotions? Are these emotions hard to manage? Play therapy can help children process their emotions and make sense of their worlds. I also offer parenting support. I know how hard parenting can be and I’m passionate about offering a holistic service. I am an advocate of therapeutic parenting, playful parenting and attachment play. I like to work with parents to help support the therapeutic process and provide ways to foster co-operation, connection and play.
Helpful for foster and adoption.
Hello, I’m Zoe. I am a play and creative arts therapist based in Bourne and I see children from 3 to 16. Do you know a child with big emotions? Are these emotions hard to manage? Play therapy can help children process their emotions and make sense of their worlds. I also offer parenting support. I know how hard parenting can be and I’m passionate about offering a holistic service. I am an advocate of therapeutic parenting, playful parenting and attachment play. I like to work with parents to help support the therapeutic process and provide ways to foster co-operation, connection and play.
01733 942001 View 01733 942001
Photo of Mac Andrews
Mac Andrews
Verified Verified
Huntingdon PE28
Life is tough. The world can be a very harsh and unforgiving place indeed. Above all I work with kindness, acceptance and understanding - successful therapy always depends upon a partnership between you and me, both/all of us working purposefully together to solve the issues that are in your way - let's face it, there is simply not enough of those three qualities around these days. It is never a failure to reach out for help - never. It takes courage. So please reach out: I promise to take your hand, keep you safe, and together we'll walk the path to better days.
Life is tough. The world can be a very harsh and unforgiving place indeed. Above all I work with kindness, acceptance and understanding - successful therapy always depends upon a partnership between you and me, both/all of us working purposefully together to solve the issues that are in your way - let's face it, there is simply not enough of those three qualities around these days. It is never a failure to reach out for help - never. It takes courage. So please reach out: I promise to take your hand, keep you safe, and together we'll walk the path to better days.
01697 927020 View 01697 927020
Photo of Mandy Eileen Kitsell - Embrace Centre for Counselling and Therapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Embrace Centre for Counselling and Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Huntingdon PE29
I have been a counsellor/therapist for the last 18 years. I love my work and I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space so that we can work through difficult and sometimes traumatic experiences. My counselling style is varied as it is very much dependent on the individuals or couples needs and concerns. I have felt honoured to work with those who have been my clients. It is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. Meet with me for an introductory consultation and we can discover the best ways to help make the changes needed to help you on your journey.
I have been a counsellor/therapist for the last 18 years. I love my work and I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space so that we can work through difficult and sometimes traumatic experiences. My counselling style is varied as it is very much dependent on the individuals or couples needs and concerns. I have felt honoured to work with those who have been my clients. It is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. Meet with me for an introductory consultation and we can discover the best ways to help make the changes needed to help you on your journey.
01487 801962 View 01487 801962
Photo of Lisa Tilling, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Lisa Tilling
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Huntingdon PE28
I am a qualified , experienced Integrative Psychotherapist, who can offer help and support to individuals / couples experiencing a range of issues. I understand how difficult it can be to decide to seek help and i hope to be able to work with you whatever the issue . I offer therapy in a comfortable and supportive environment and aim to help you achieve a more contented way of being in the world, and/ or better relationships . I aim to help my clients understand their own patterns of behaviour to enable solutions to be uncovered and changes to be made. I am also able to offer EMDR to enable the processing of trauma/ events
I am a qualified , experienced Integrative Psychotherapist, who can offer help and support to individuals / couples experiencing a range of issues. I understand how difficult it can be to decide to seek help and i hope to be able to work with you whatever the issue . I offer therapy in a comfortable and supportive environment and aim to help you achieve a more contented way of being in the world, and/ or better relationships . I aim to help my clients understand their own patterns of behaviour to enable solutions to be uncovered and changes to be made. I am also able to offer EMDR to enable the processing of trauma/ events
01697 927009 View 01697 927009

Online Therapists

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 Ulisses Belucio, PhD, BPC, Psychotherapist
Ulisses Belucio
Psychotherapist, PhD, BPC
Verified Verified
London SW12
Anxiety/Stress -Traumatic experiences -Work stress -Pressure to make life choices - Support through life changes -Depression/feeling stuck - solation/loneliness -Overwhelming feelings -Feeling lost/empty -Life events -Loss/bereavement - Adoption - Divorce -Identity - Exploring and embracing your individuation -Gender, Sexuality - Relationships -Others.
I am an experienced Psychodynamic Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a private practice in South London. The Therapeutic process explores rooted problems and behavioural patterns repeated through life. It helps to expand awareness and self-knowledge so that you learn to recognise, understand and deal better with overwhelming feelings and thoughts. In my practice I offer a calm, safe and confidential setting where we work together in finding ways of making more sense of your life experiences and developing a greater capacity to embrace your own life history, life’s events, difficulties and opportunities.
Anxiety/Stress -Traumatic experiences -Work stress -Pressure to make life choices - Support through life changes -Depression/feeling stuck - solation/loneliness -Overwhelming feelings -Feeling lost/empty -Life events -Loss/bereavement - Adoption - Divorce -Identity - Exploring and embracing your individuation -Gender, Sexuality - Relationships -Others.
I am an experienced Psychodynamic Psychotherapist and Counsellor with a private practice in South London. The Therapeutic process explores rooted problems and behavioural patterns repeated through life. It helps to expand awareness and self-knowledge so that you learn to recognise, understand and deal better with overwhelming feelings and thoughts. In my practice I offer a calm, safe and confidential setting where we work together in finding ways of making more sense of your life experiences and developing a greater capacity to embrace your own life history, life’s events, difficulties and opportunities.
020 4538 0152 View 020 4538 0152
Photo of Eve Hanley, BACP, Counsellor
Eve Hanley
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Faversham ME13
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 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 E2
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 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 Maggie Curran, PNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Maggie Curran
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
West Drayton UB7
I am also an Adoption Counsellor I understand the pressure of working with challenging families and can help by offering a confidential space to process this work.
Are you feeling desperate and alone? Struggling to cope with the uncertainty of life? Is it difficult to get our of bed in the morning- I understand and I can help. Offering a safe space for you to talk and discuss what's really going on for you. Specialising in PTSD and trauma. Offering EMDR, I also work with anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships, Couples Therapy. Qualified and experienced, client who work with me tell me they feel safe and can talk in a non-judgmental environment, which allows them to discuss issues in confidence. Take the first step, call me today. I offer a free 15 minute consultation. Thank you
I am also an Adoption Counsellor I understand the pressure of working with challenging families and can help by offering a confidential space to process this work.
Are you feeling desperate and alone? Struggling to cope with the uncertainty of life? Is it difficult to get our of bed in the morning- I understand and I can help. Offering a safe space for you to talk and discuss what's really going on for you. Specialising in PTSD and trauma. Offering EMDR, I also work with anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationships, Couples Therapy. Qualified and experienced, client who work with me tell me they feel safe and can talk in a non-judgmental environment, which allows them to discuss issues in confidence. Take the first step, call me today. I offer a free 15 minute consultation. Thank you
07492 884313 View 07492 884313
Photo of Ana Spoladore - Ana Spoladore Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, MA, ACP, Psychotherapist
Ana Spoladore Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, ACP
Verified Verified
Twickenham TW2
My areas of expertise are: adolescent depression and anxiety, infant mental health, adoption and complex trauma.
With over 16 years of experience in the field of child and adolescent psychotherapy, I have worked within the NHS and the private sector providing therapeutic interventions to young people facing various mental health challenges. Throughout my career, I have worked with various multidisciplinary teams and have been instrumental in developing and implementing effective treatment plans for young individuals and support to their families.
My areas of expertise are: adolescent depression and anxiety, infant mental health, adoption and complex trauma.
With over 16 years of experience in the field of child and adolescent psychotherapy, I have worked within the NHS and the private sector providing therapeutic interventions to young people facing various mental health challenges. Throughout my career, I have worked with various multidisciplinary teams and have been instrumental in developing and implementing effective treatment plans for young individuals and support to their families.
020 3004 1084 View 020 3004 1084
Photo of Kerry Mattock, PTUK, Psychotherapist
Kerry Mattock
Psychotherapist, PTUK
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thrapston NN14
Hello, thank you for looking at my profile. I am a PTUK registered play therapist, specialising in offering creative therapy for children and young people. I am experienced in working with clients who have experienced trauma, loss, separation anxiety, low or conflicted self esteem, challenging behaviours, social and peer difficulties, reluctant talkers (mutism), pre/post adoption and attachment disorders. If you’d like to chat about your child’s/families needs please do contact me. NB- CHECK SPAM as reply emails from me can go straight there. For more you can visit my website: www.theconnectedtherapist.co.uk
Hello, thank you for looking at my profile. I am a PTUK registered play therapist, specialising in offering creative therapy for children and young people. I am experienced in working with clients who have experienced trauma, loss, separation anxiety, low or conflicted self esteem, challenging behaviours, social and peer difficulties, reluctant talkers (mutism), pre/post adoption and attachment disorders. If you’d like to chat about your child’s/families needs please do contact me. NB- CHECK SPAM as reply emails from me can go straight there. For more you can visit my website: www.theconnectedtherapist.co.uk
01832 778353 View 01832 778353
Photo of Phoenix-Rises Enow-Anyor-Morongho Tabot-Ojong - Core Illumination Healing, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Core Illumination Healing
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wokingham RG41
For several years, I have offered short and long-term psychotherapy to 16+,adults & adoptive families within NHS,Social Services, Private & Charity Settings,plus a decade of attachment based child, family & adoption experience.
Perhaps you're feeling down; depressed, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, stuck or lonely. Maybe you're unsure about a relationship, challenged by life transitions or a relationship breakdown.You might be struggling with childhood trauma, parenting, adoption, infertility, loss and identity issues. Or just feeling that you aren't living the life you deserve. Life gets tough sometimes, yet out of our vulnerabilities lie our strength. Therapy is a process of self-discovery & growth that helps you to understand aspects of your life that may be holding you back, heal and ignite passion and fulfilment. I have faith and welcome you as you are
For several years, I have offered short and long-term psychotherapy to 16+,adults & adoptive families within NHS,Social Services, Private & Charity Settings,plus a decade of attachment based child, family & adoption experience.
Perhaps you're feeling down; depressed, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, stuck or lonely. Maybe you're unsure about a relationship, challenged by life transitions or a relationship breakdown.You might be struggling with childhood trauma, parenting, adoption, infertility, loss and identity issues. Or just feeling that you aren't living the life you deserve. Life gets tough sometimes, yet out of our vulnerabilities lie our strength. Therapy is a process of self-discovery & growth that helps you to understand aspects of your life that may be holding you back, heal and ignite passion and fulfilment. I have faith and welcome you as you are
0118 214 0816 View 0118 214 0816
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 Dr Natasha Nascimento, PhD, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Dr Natasha Nascimento
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London WC1H
Seeking help is brave, finding the right therapist essential. So, let me tell you about myself. I am passionate about helping families and individuals navigate a range of complexities/dilemmas/relationships. You might be feeling hopeless or too cautious around others. Occasionally we all experience these feelings, but gradually these wear us down. I specialise in helping people affected by emotional/relationship difficulties to change and reconnect. These include: improving relationships, communication; anxiety/depression; trauma; parenting issues; post- adoption; separation/divorce; loss/grief; education/work issues and other issues
Seeking help is brave, finding the right therapist essential. So, let me tell you about myself. I am passionate about helping families and individuals navigate a range of complexities/dilemmas/relationships. You might be feeling hopeless or too cautious around others. Occasionally we all experience these feelings, but gradually these wear us down. I specialise in helping people affected by emotional/relationship difficulties to change and reconnect. These include: improving relationships, communication; anxiety/depression; trauma; parenting issues; post- adoption; separation/divorce; loss/grief; education/work issues and other issues
View
Photo of Becky Francis, MBACP, Counsellor
Becky Francis
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Horsham RH12
I work with all issues including anxiety, stress, depression, abuse, relationship issues, life events, bereavement, grief, panic attacks, trauma, addiction and adoption.
I offer counselling and psychotherapy (Rootscounselling.org) to address issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, abuse, trauma and adoption. I hold a Diploma in Transactional Analysis Practice, am BACP Registered an Accredited Member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).
I work with all issues including anxiety, stress, depression, abuse, relationship issues, life events, bereavement, grief, panic attacks, trauma, addiction and adoption.
I offer counselling and psychotherapy (Rootscounselling.org) to address issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, abuse, trauma and adoption. I hold a Diploma in Transactional Analysis Practice, am BACP Registered an Accredited Member of the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).
01403 332354 View 01403 332354
Photo of Sharon Hynes, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Sharon Hynes
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Tunbridge Wells TN1
I am a fully qualified psychodynamic counsellor offering in-person, telephone and online counselling sessions to adults on a short term and open ended basis. I also have a Certificate in Adoption Support Counselling and can offer sessions to adults with adoption related issues.
I am a fully qualified psychodynamic counsellor offering in-person, telephone and online counselling sessions to adults on a short term and open ended basis. I also have a Certificate in Adoption Support Counselling and can offer sessions to adults with adoption related issues.
01892 362937 View 01892 362937
Photo of Lola Fasehun, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lola Fasehun
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N10  (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 Ici Marguerite Butcher - Uniquely Designed Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Uniquely Designed Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N9
I hold the CPCAB Dip in Therapeutic Counselling. I am an integrative therapist & my specialism is in adoption support for adults who have experienced the care system on any level. This can be from being an adoptee, birth/forever parent, birth child with adopted/fostered sibiling or grandparents etc. I am registered with Barnardo’s. I provide a safe, non-judgmental & confidential space for all struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, stress, trauma, abuse, adoptiin, family & life problems issues to start cultivating tools that will equip them to deal with life’s problems, build stronger resilience and feel healthier mentally.
I hold the CPCAB Dip in Therapeutic Counselling. I am an integrative therapist & my specialism is in adoption support for adults who have experienced the care system on any level. This can be from being an adoptee, birth/forever parent, birth child with adopted/fostered sibiling or grandparents etc. I am registered with Barnardo’s. I provide a safe, non-judgmental & confidential space for all struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, stress, trauma, abuse, adoptiin, family & life problems issues to start cultivating tools that will equip them to deal with life’s problems, build stronger resilience and feel healthier mentally.
07445 851146 View 07445 851146

See more therapy options for Huntingdon

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.