Adoption Counselling in Northallerton
![Photo of Xenia Watson, DCounsPsych, MUKCP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/25b43c9d-4b24-4b54-b9b6-fbad1f92896b/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr Jane Bourne, PhD, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/294b2f8b-7902-4b7d-af62-b9c48bbaa486/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kay Bowman - Peace of Mind counselling services, MA, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6ed5695-ce6a-4bfe-90ab-b11a26f772b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Beverley Ann D'Arcy - Changing Minds Psychotherapy, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/141dc958-a0ef-4421-9f1d-09786f3a6e0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr Gill Nowell, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27e99279-b384-4ecb-bd38-3d9c62d619eb/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jacqueline Ann Bird - Jacquibird Counselling, MA, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/520db65f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Lyndsey Waugh, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1cd524f8-2274-4675-a5f7-55edcade4801/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Anne Andrieux, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e436c55d-934b-451f-a8ab-d7ca4c5db817/4/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Rosana Vieira Roy, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ec2abbf-5dbb-4ef0-b5c0-7937b301b241/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Phil Anthony Mawson-Lees - Philip Anthony Counselling, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/816abb0f-883f-440a-bce9-045b1ae49cf5/3/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Cheryl Overington - Heswall Hills Counselling Centre, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d28ce1e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Elizabeth Oyewole - Succour Empowering Equality Counselling, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ae8b8e4-905c-4919-b515-9f203718d487/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kerrie McCabe, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75e7fa14-3d43-4955-9dea-9c033d6f4d5e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Fiona Astbury, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49298541-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Melissa Lomas, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54c5c9a0-8545-4c1b-880d-84a714b2b570/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sarah Savage, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5cbb42c2-ecf8-4054-9398-7f9b6ae2dad3/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Darren Gallagher - Darren Gallagher, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2fac446-e48d-4b86-a1ba-0106171e1168/2/320x400.png)
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’.
![Photo of Coleen Mercer-Quinn, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edb15cd5-2598-4aeb-aad9-5405ccf4f3ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sabrina Persiano, MA, PTUK, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bac86bc0-d27a-4460-b8e4-10d605412371/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Carolyne Mulonga - Mukabo Road Safety, MSc, GMBPsS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c8c9c21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
"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".
See more therapy options for Northallerton
Nearby Adoption Counsellors Searches for Northallerton
- Darlington
- Durham
- Harrogate
- Leeds
- Middlesbrough
- Richmond (North Yorkshire)
- Skipton
- Stockton-on-Tees
- Sunderland
- Wetherby
- Yarm
- York
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.