Adoption Counselling in Northallerton

Photo of Xenia Watson, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Counsellor
Xenia Watson
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Northallerton DL7
I cannot imagine an ideal client, each person is so unique. At the moment most of my clients suffer with anxiety or depression, a lack of confidence in themselves. But the needs are similar, a desire to become autonomous, to find a new direction and a self belief, to feel able and capable and change their outlook. To blend different therapies to suit individuals needs according to their personalities.
I cannot imagine an ideal client, each person is so unique. At the moment most of my clients suffer with anxiety or depression, a lack of confidence in themselves. But the needs are similar, a desire to become autonomous, to find a new direction and a self belief, to feel able and capable and change their outlook. To blend different therapies to suit individuals needs according to their personalities.
0115 647 0249 View 0115 647 0249
Photo of Dr Jane Bourne, PhD, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Dr Jane Bourne
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Northallerton DL6
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 Kay Bowman - Peace of Mind counselling services, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Peace of Mind counselling services
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Northallerton DL7
As an integrative counsellor specialising in attachment trauma, my approach can be tailored to meet the needs of those who are seeking a deeper exploration of their history to understand the complex terrain that influences emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. Progressing from this, I also offer a solution-focused and strengths-based approach believing in the transformative power of focusing on solutions rather than problems by fostering a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy by identifying strengths, resources and goals to address stress, anxiety, depression, life changes, and self-development.
As an integrative counsellor specialising in attachment trauma, my approach can be tailored to meet the needs of those who are seeking a deeper exploration of their history to understand the complex terrain that influences emotional well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. Progressing from this, I also offer a solution-focused and strengths-based approach believing in the transformative power of focusing on solutions rather than problems by fostering a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy by identifying strengths, resources and goals to address stress, anxiety, depression, life changes, and self-development.
01642 424088 View 01642 424088
Photo of Beverley Ann D'Arcy - Changing Minds Psychotherapy, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Changing Minds Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Northallerton DL6
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr Gill Nowell, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Gill Nowell
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thirsk YO7
I’m a clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience of working with children, young people and families. I know how hard it is-not only for children and young people to navigate the world today-but also for us parents! I understand how overwhelming it can feel waiting to access much needed assessments/support for your child (or yourself). Take that first brave step and get in touch for a free consultation. I know that you/your child/teen most probably want to suss me out before you take the next step, so please feel free to do so! Hopefully I can put your mind at ease.
I’m a clinical psychologist with over 20 years experience of working with children, young people and families. I know how hard it is-not only for children and young people to navigate the world today-but also for us parents! I understand how overwhelming it can feel waiting to access much needed assessments/support for your child (or yourself). Take that first brave step and get in touch for a free consultation. I know that you/your child/teen most probably want to suss me out before you take the next step, so please feel free to do so! Hopefully I can put your mind at ease.
01292 434504 View 01292 434504
Photo of Jacqueline Ann Bird - Jacquibird Counselling, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Jacquibird Counselling
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Thirsk YO7
Welcome I am a registered MBACP accredited Counsellor/psychotherapist. I am qualified in several modalities of therapy - meaning I can integrate a range of interventions to support you. I work with individuals, couples, families, children and young people. I offer online appointments and face to face appointments in York and Thirsk. I also offer walk and talk sessions in York and Thirsk. I specialise in relationship and psychosexual therapy, trauma and PTSD. If you are experiencing difficulties and would like to talk in confidence, I'm here by your side to support you and help you move forward at your pace.
Welcome I am a registered MBACP accredited Counsellor/psychotherapist. I am qualified in several modalities of therapy - meaning I can integrate a range of interventions to support you. I work with individuals, couples, families, children and young people. I offer online appointments and face to face appointments in York and Thirsk. I also offer walk and talk sessions in York and Thirsk. I specialise in relationship and psychosexual therapy, trauma and PTSD. If you are experiencing difficulties and would like to talk in confidence, I'm here by your side to support you and help you move forward at your pace.
01889 227313 View 01889 227313

Online Therapists

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 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 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 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 Cheryl Overington - Heswall Hills Counselling Centre, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Heswall Hills Counselling Centre
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Wirral CH60
T, clinical hypnotherapy, adoption, couples therapy, psychosexual therapy, sexual violence, coaching, clinical supervision, OCD, birth trauma, .
Hello, my name is Cheryl Overington and I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I am the Founder and Manager of the Heswall Hills Counselling Centre, a private therapy centre based in Heswall Hills on the Wirral. Finding the right therapist can be a daunting process. All of the therapists working from the centre have been selected by me to ensure that they are suitably trained and most importantly of the sort of therapists I’ll be happy to refer to. Due the number of different therapists, including psychologists and CBT therapists we are able to offer a wide of therapeutic specialities and work with children, adults & couples.
T, clinical hypnotherapy, adoption, couples therapy, psychosexual therapy, sexual violence, coaching, clinical supervision, OCD, birth trauma, .
Hello, my name is Cheryl Overington and I am a Chartered Counselling Psychologist. I am the Founder and Manager of the Heswall Hills Counselling Centre, a private therapy centre based in Heswall Hills on the Wirral. Finding the right therapist can be a daunting process. All of the therapists working from the centre have been selected by me to ensure that they are suitably trained and most importantly of the sort of therapists I’ll be happy to refer to. Due the number of different therapists, including psychologists and CBT therapists we are able to offer a wide of therapeutic specialities and work with children, adults & couples.
07481 361235 View 07481 361235
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 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 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 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 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 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 Coleen Mercer-Quinn, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Coleen Mercer-Quinn
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Yarm TS15
I am a Chartered Fellow of the British Psychological Society and an HCPC Registered Psychologist with 25 years of clinical experience. Under the terms of the Royal Charter, I uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism promoting ethical behaviour to ensure a dignified and respectful greeting to individuals, groups and corporate clients across the social and cultural spectrum. I work with children, adults, professionals, couples, groups, charities, and corporate clients.
I am a Chartered Fellow of the British Psychological Society and an HCPC Registered Psychologist with 25 years of clinical experience. Under the terms of the Royal Charter, I uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism promoting ethical behaviour to ensure a dignified and respectful greeting to individuals, groups and corporate clients across the social and cultural spectrum. I work with children, adults, professionals, couples, groups, charities, and corporate clients.
01642 548437 View 01642 548437
Photo of Sabrina Persiano, MA, PTUK, Psychotherapist
Sabrina Persiano
Psychotherapist, MA, PTUK
Verified Verified
Sandbach CW11
It's not easy being a parent and it's not easy knowing that your child is going through a tough time. You might have noticed that their behaviour has become really difficult to handle and it is putting a strain on family life. Teachers might have noticed this in the classroom too. Sometimes, you might wonder if this is something you are going to have get used to. It doesn't have to be this way. I can help your child and your family have a well-deserved meaningful life, filled with happier memories.
It's not easy being a parent and it's not easy knowing that your child is going through a tough time. You might have noticed that their behaviour has become really difficult to handle and it is putting a strain on family life. Teachers might have noticed this in the classroom too. Sometimes, you might wonder if this is something you are going to have get used to. It doesn't have to be this way. I can help your child and your family have a well-deserved meaningful life, filled with happier memories.
01270 433151 View 01270 433151
Photo of Carolyne Mulonga - Mukabo Road Safety, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Mukabo Road Safety
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Sheffield S5
"Having walked a certain path, as a Christian, my Faith in God and leaning on Him has been the greatest pillar I ever held on to experiencing my own post-traumatic growth. However, I value individual differences, respect, diversity, culture, integrity, honesty and ability to find your own path, grow, connect and build an enduring relationship. I firmly believe individuals can be empowered to find their own solutions. I am aware I might not have all the answers or solutions, but I could give one or two suggestions. I am happy to sit with people who find themselves in a dilemma, stuck in difficult and uncomfortable situations".
"Having walked a certain path, as a Christian, my Faith in God and leaning on Him has been the greatest pillar I ever held on to experiencing my own post-traumatic growth. However, I value individual differences, respect, diversity, culture, integrity, honesty and ability to find your own path, grow, connect and build an enduring relationship. I firmly believe individuals can be empowered to find their own solutions. I am aware I might not have all the answers or solutions, but I could give one or two suggestions. I am happy to sit with people who find themselves in a dilemma, stuck in difficult and uncomfortable situations".
01890 230058 View 01890 230058

See more therapy options for Northallerton

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.