Adoption Counselling in Sidcup

Photo of Denise Quadrucci, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Denise Quadrucci
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sidcup DA14  (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 Emily Turner, MBACP, Counsellor
Emily Turner
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sidcup DA15
I'm Emily (she/her), a qualified counsellor and play therapist. I am a registered member of the BACP and accredited member of PTUK. I am currently offering counselling sessions to adults and adolescents (aged 12+). I am passionate about working with young people, and value and listen to their stories and experiences unique to their generation. Many of my clients have also been neurodivergent or a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I have also undergone training in adoption support counselling.
I'm Emily (she/her), a qualified counsellor and play therapist. I am a registered member of the BACP and accredited member of PTUK. I am currently offering counselling sessions to adults and adolescents (aged 12+). I am passionate about working with young people, and value and listen to their stories and experiences unique to their generation. Many of my clients have also been neurodivergent or a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I have also undergone training in adoption support counselling.
020 4572 1345 View 020 4572 1345
Photo of Emma Carey, MBACP, Counsellor
Emma Carey
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sidcup DA15
As a counsellor, I practice in a pluralistic way which means I draw upon different theoretical approaches when I work with you as an individual – after all, there is only one of you in the world! My aim is to attune to your individual needs and I strive to work in an authentic down to earth way that is interactive and collaborative. Counselling can be daunting so I will work with you at your pace, offering you a space that is non-judgemental, respectful and confidential. Everyone is different, but having a space to talk and actually be heard can be extremely powerful and healing; leading to a greater understanding of yourself.
As a counsellor, I practice in a pluralistic way which means I draw upon different theoretical approaches when I work with you as an individual – after all, there is only one of you in the world! My aim is to attune to your individual needs and I strive to work in an authentic down to earth way that is interactive and collaborative. Counselling can be daunting so I will work with you at your pace, offering you a space that is non-judgemental, respectful and confidential. Everyone is different, but having a space to talk and actually be heard can be extremely powerful and healing; leading to a greater understanding of yourself.
020 4538 8313 View 020 4538 8313
Photo of Charli Downes - Counselling Matters Bexley, BACP, Counsellor
Counselling Matters Bexley
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Sidcup DA14
At counselling matters Bexley we work with adults and young people (5-18 years) who are experiencing difficulties such as stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, self-harm, anger problems and more. Our affordable counselling costs per session are £33 face to face or £28 online/phone. Our affordable CBT sessions cost £40 face to face or £35 online/phone. We also offer affordable sessions with 4th year trainee counsellors for £25 face to face or £20 online/phone. We also offer family therapy at £45 face to face or £40 online. We offer NLP sessions at £40 face to face or £35 online/phone.
At counselling matters Bexley we work with adults and young people (5-18 years) who are experiencing difficulties such as stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, self-harm, anger problems and more. Our affordable counselling costs per session are £33 face to face or £28 online/phone. Our affordable CBT sessions cost £40 face to face or £35 online/phone. We also offer affordable sessions with 4th year trainee counsellors for £25 face to face or £20 online/phone. We also offer family therapy at £45 face to face or £40 online. We offer NLP sessions at £40 face to face or £35 online/phone.
020 4538 7119 View 020 4538 7119
Photo of Helen McNally, MBACP, Counsellor
Helen McNally
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sidcup DA14
Hi my name is Helen, I am passionate about counselling and the positive change it can bring. Together we can explore difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing in a safe, supportive, non-judgemental, confidential way. My training allows me to access different interventions which can be tailored to benefit and support each unique client. Sharing your feelings may be the first step. My aim is to help gain emotional strength to affect change in your life.
Hi my name is Helen, I am passionate about counselling and the positive change it can bring. Together we can explore difficulties and challenges you may be experiencing in a safe, supportive, non-judgemental, confidential way. My training allows me to access different interventions which can be tailored to benefit and support each unique client. Sharing your feelings may be the first step. My aim is to help gain emotional strength to affect change in your life.
01322 923877 View 01322 923877
Photo of Simone Sheikh, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Simone Sheikh
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sidcup DA14  (Online Only)
People usually seek therapy because they have reached a crisis point in their life and are struggling to cope alone. This can lead to feeling stuck or creating unhelpful behaviour patterns to cope which present them from living life to their full potential. We often feel confused, anxious, depressed, emotionally numb or trapped in our past without clear goals in life or clear identity. I can offer you a safe space to explore better internal understanding which promotes self awareness, personal growth and inner peace which enables you to feel full of hope and clarity to achieve personal success.
People usually seek therapy because they have reached a crisis point in their life and are struggling to cope alone. This can lead to feeling stuck or creating unhelpful behaviour patterns to cope which present them from living life to their full potential. We often feel confused, anxious, depressed, emotionally numb or trapped in our past without clear goals in life or clear identity. I can offer you a safe space to explore better internal understanding which promotes self awareness, personal growth and inner peace which enables you to feel full of hope and clarity to achieve personal success.
07480 533783 View 07480 533783

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Olivia Djouadi, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Olivia Djouadi
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bromley BR1  (Online Only)
Your life can start to go in a new direction from the resources gained in therapy. I have been working over a decade as a UKCP psychotherapist in helping people to begin again or improve where they are in life. My experience assists those with dissociation, trauma, stress, adoption and situations that have a negative affect on life. I can help you take the steps to a new you. It can feel lonely sitting with a feelings that remain present. I have lived in 8 countries so know moving is not simple and can leave difficult feelings. I am also trained to give the SCID-D assessment for a psychological diagnosis in dissociative disorders.
Your life can start to go in a new direction from the resources gained in therapy. I have been working over a decade as a UKCP psychotherapist in helping people to begin again or improve where they are in life. My experience assists those with dissociation, trauma, stress, adoption and situations that have a negative affect on life. I can help you take the steps to a new you. It can feel lonely sitting with a feelings that remain present. I have lived in 8 countries so know moving is not simple and can leave difficult feelings. I am also trained to give the SCID-D assessment for a psychological diagnosis in dissociative disorders.
020 3984 9310 View 020 3984 9310
Photo of Garry Michael Brennan, MBACP, Counsellor
Garry Michael Brennan
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bromley BR1  (Online Only)
I specialise in the area of adoption but I cover a range of issues such as loss, bereavement, relationship problems, anxiety, stress, depression, domestic violence, sexuality and identity issues and sexual abuse.
Starting therapy can be a daunting experience and so my aim is to help you feel at ease by working in a straightforward, empathic and down to earth way in order to help you overcome the obstacles that are stopping you from leading a meaningful and authentic life. I am an active person-centred counsellor who will work hard alongside you in order to help you understand the roots of your difficulties. I am an experienced counsellor who has particular experience around trauma and attachment issues due to my long experience in working in the world of adoption as both a social worker and therapist
I specialise in the area of adoption but I cover a range of issues such as loss, bereavement, relationship problems, anxiety, stress, depression, domestic violence, sexuality and identity issues and sexual abuse.
Starting therapy can be a daunting experience and so my aim is to help you feel at ease by working in a straightforward, empathic and down to earth way in order to help you overcome the obstacles that are stopping you from leading a meaningful and authentic life. I am an active person-centred counsellor who will work hard alongside you in order to help you understand the roots of your difficulties. I am an experienced counsellor who has particular experience around trauma and attachment issues due to my long experience in working in the world of adoption as both a social worker and therapist
07723 562533 View 07723 562533
Photo of Amy Moon, MA
Amy Moon
MA
Verified Verified
London SE23
Many children have difficulties in their lives such as family break up, challenging behaviour, bullying, life upheaval, loss and bereavement, fostering and adoption.
I am a child-centred play therapist working with children, primarily from 4-12 years of age. I provide a safe, empathetic and accepting space for your child to explore what is troubling them. My approach is play based and primarily non-directive. However, for some children a slightly more directive approach can be helpful. Each child is unique, therefore the sessions will be tailored to your child and meeting their individual needs. A play based approach can be useful for children who may find it difficult to express how they feel into words.
Many children have difficulties in their lives such as family break up, challenging behaviour, bullying, life upheaval, loss and bereavement, fostering and adoption.
I am a child-centred play therapist working with children, primarily from 4-12 years of age. I provide a safe, empathetic and accepting space for your child to explore what is troubling them. My approach is play based and primarily non-directive. However, for some children a slightly more directive approach can be helpful. Each child is unique, therefore the sessions will be tailored to your child and meeting their individual needs. A play based approach can be useful for children who may find it difficult to express how they feel into words.
020 3912 8139 View 020 3912 8139
Photo of 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 Ekua Edufuah, MBACP, Counsellor
Ekua Edufuah
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E10
I work with a range of issues such as; mental health, trauma, bereavement, self esteem, identity, culture, religion, sexuality, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, adoption, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and domestic violence.
Whether you are new to counselling or returning, I can provide a safe and confidential space face to face or online. My Goal is to listen, help you explore issues that you wish to work through, at your own pace, without judgement or pressure. I work within the BACP's code of ethics and I am fully committed to ensuring confidentiality and safety to all my clients.
I work with a range of issues such as; mental health, trauma, bereavement, self esteem, identity, culture, religion, sexuality, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, adoption, eating disorders, self harm, suicide and domestic violence.
Whether you are new to counselling or returning, I can provide a safe and confidential space face to face or online. My Goal is to listen, help you explore issues that you wish to work through, at your own pace, without judgement or pressure. I work within the BACP's code of ethics and I am fully committed to ensuring confidentiality and safety to all my clients.
020 3962 0730 View 020 3962 0730
Photo of Henrietta Priddie, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Henrietta Priddie
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London E1
I have experience of working with clients of all ages on various issues affecting their well-being, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, anger, identity, body dysphoria, neurodiversity, trauma, abuse, PTSD, bereavement and loss, divorce and separation, family conflict, and fostering and adoption.
I am a UKCP-qualified integrative child, adolescent, parent and adult psychotherapist working across a wide range of areas and interests and have over 20 years of experience working in the mental health sector. I offer a safe space to allow clients the opportunity to explore presenting issues freely and in depth. I believe that compassion, empathy and the alliance between the therapist and client are the keys to therapeutic change. I am also passionate about supporting women in their journey through life and parents struggling with the complexities of raising a child in an ever-changing world.
I have experience of working with clients of all ages on various issues affecting their well-being, including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, anger, identity, body dysphoria, neurodiversity, trauma, abuse, PTSD, bereavement and loss, divorce and separation, family conflict, and fostering and adoption.
I am a UKCP-qualified integrative child, adolescent, parent and adult psychotherapist working across a wide range of areas and interests and have over 20 years of experience working in the mental health sector. I offer a safe space to allow clients the opportunity to explore presenting issues freely and in depth. I believe that compassion, empathy and the alliance between the therapist and client are the keys to therapeutic change. I am also passionate about supporting women in their journey through life and parents struggling with the complexities of raising a child in an ever-changing world.
020 3987 1816 View 020 3987 1816
Photo of Elizabeth Oyewole - Succour Empowering Equality Counselling, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Succour Empowering Equality Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London E16
I offer Person-centred, Trauma Focused, and Adoption Support Therapy.
Are you noticing and experiencing feelings of worry, and unable to shake it off? Are you increasingly tearful, sad, with low mood, low appetite, experiencing disturbed sleep/lack of a good quality sleep, nightmares, and tiredness? Feeling like something bad is going to happen? If so, do not be alone in your feelings, let's talk about it.
I offer Person-centred, Trauma Focused, and Adoption Support Therapy.
Are you noticing and experiencing feelings of worry, and unable to shake it off? Are you increasingly tearful, sad, with low mood, low appetite, experiencing disturbed sleep/lack of a good quality sleep, nightmares, and tiredness? Feeling like something bad is going to happen? If so, do not be alone in your feelings, let's talk about it.
01482 251689 View 01482 251689
Photo of Eve Hanley, BACP, Counsellor
Eve Hanley
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
London E1
I offer both counselling and supervision to adults, couples. adolescents and parents. My main counselling focus areas are working with neurodivergent clients, students and clients who have experienced domestic abuse and trauma. I am adoption registered as a link therapist with Banardos . As a counsellor, I believe in the essential need to create a space where you set the pace and we work together to look how this would work for you. Sometimes we don't know what this starting point is or direction an intial session can help to focus on an area to begin.As a supervisor my supervisees work in agencies, private practice and schools.
I offer both counselling and supervision to adults, couples. adolescents and parents. My main counselling focus areas are working with neurodivergent clients, students and clients who have experienced domestic abuse and trauma. I am adoption registered as a link therapist with Banardos . As a counsellor, I believe in the essential need to create a space where you set the pace and we work together to look how this would work for you. Sometimes we don't know what this starting point is or direction an intial session can help to focus on an area to begin.As a supervisor my supervisees work in agencies, private practice and schools.
01227 203901 View 01227 203901
Photo of Erica Jane Ruse Whalley, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Erica Jane Ruse Whalley
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Croydon CR0  (Online Only)
It is particularly effectively with adoption and fostering and all areas of attachment, loss and all emotional areas.
Hi, sometimes it no longer seems enough to talk to friends or family, and we need further support and insight to get back on track. I work with adults, teenagers and children, offering a range of therapeutic methods, to find which suit you best. I am a fully trained and accredited Counsellor with the British Assiciation of Counselling and Psychologists, I am trained in person centred, Psycho- dynamic and CBT and I offer many creative techniques such as Jungian Kallffian Sandplay which is a gentle but extremely effective way of working with children, teenagers and adults. I would really like to hear from you, please send a text (0781 209 7293) or email (stillvoice.ej@gmail.com) so that we can arrange a time for an initial phone call to discuss how I can help you.
It is particularly effectively with adoption and fostering and all areas of attachment, loss and all emotional areas.
Hi, sometimes it no longer seems enough to talk to friends or family, and we need further support and insight to get back on track. I work with adults, teenagers and children, offering a range of therapeutic methods, to find which suit you best. I am a fully trained and accredited Counsellor with the British Assiciation of Counselling and Psychologists, I am trained in person centred, Psycho- dynamic and CBT and I offer many creative techniques such as Jungian Kallffian Sandplay which is a gentle but extremely effective way of working with children, teenagers and adults. I would really like to hear from you, please send a text (0781 209 7293) or email (stillvoice.ej@gmail.com) so that we can arrange a time for an initial phone call to discuss how I can help you.
020 3962 1569 View 020 3962 1569
Photo of Dr Natasha Nascimento, PhD, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Dr Natasha Nascimento
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London SE1
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 Lola Fasehun, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Lola Fasehun
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE21  (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 Anastasia Athanasiou, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Anastasia Athanasiou
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SW9  (Online Only)
Mental & physical health, behavioural & school-related concerns, neurodiversity, eating difficulties, disability, sexual orientation, gender, feeding/sleeping, attachment, parenting/co-parenting, separation/divorce, fostering/ adoption/kinship care, communication, psychosexual matters, infertility, infidelity, spirituality, discrimination/bullying & others.
I am a qualified systemic psychotherapist working with individuals, couples and families. In individual sessions, you can explore your emotions/behaviours, and relationships in different contexts, such as family/work, how they have been formed over time and impact on the view of self. Family/couples work: In a secure space, the presenting problem would be explored in relation to the family’s/couples' rules, roles, beliefs and emotions building on the existing strengths and resources of the system. There is no set agenda or expectations for a unanimous perspective, on the contrary, all voices and differences are welcomed.
Mental & physical health, behavioural & school-related concerns, neurodiversity, eating difficulties, disability, sexual orientation, gender, feeding/sleeping, attachment, parenting/co-parenting, separation/divorce, fostering/ adoption/kinship care, communication, psychosexual matters, infertility, infidelity, spirituality, discrimination/bullying & others.
I am a qualified systemic psychotherapist working with individuals, couples and families. In individual sessions, you can explore your emotions/behaviours, and relationships in different contexts, such as family/work, how they have been formed over time and impact on the view of self. Family/couples work: In a secure space, the presenting problem would be explored in relation to the family’s/couples' rules, roles, beliefs and emotions building on the existing strengths and resources of the system. There is no set agenda or expectations for a unanimous perspective, on the contrary, all voices and differences are welcomed.
020 4572 1974 View 020 4572 1974
Photo of Anissa Sedira, MBACP, Counsellor
Anissa Sedira
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SE24
I am a compassionate & experienced Counsellor & Psychotherapist who is able to support you with a range of issues. My integrative approach creates a safe, warm & non-judgmental space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings & past experiences. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties or dealing with trauma/abuse, I am here to help you navigate these challenges. My aim is to support you in building resilience & developing practical skills to manage your life’s difficulties. Together we'll work towards fostering greater self-awareness & gaining deeper understanding of yourself.
I am a compassionate & experienced Counsellor & Psychotherapist who is able to support you with a range of issues. My integrative approach creates a safe, warm & non-judgmental space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings & past experiences. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties or dealing with trauma/abuse, I am here to help you navigate these challenges. My aim is to support you in building resilience & developing practical skills to manage your life’s difficulties. Together we'll work towards fostering greater self-awareness & gaining deeper understanding of yourself.
020 3772 3458 View 020 3772 3458
Photo of Manuel Navarro, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Manuel Navarro
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London SE15  (Online Only)
I am a systemic and family psychotherapist with 18 years of experience working in mental health services in the NHS.. I have experience working with children and adults who suffer from mental health or emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety and panic, and eating disorders. I also work with couples who are looking to improve their relationship, and I am registered with the Emotionally Focused Therapy Institute (ICEEFT). My approach to therapy recognises that the individual, as well as their family members all have strengths and strategies which can be used to overcome symptoms and difficulties.
I am a systemic and family psychotherapist with 18 years of experience working in mental health services in the NHS.. I have experience working with children and adults who suffer from mental health or emotional difficulties such as depression, anxiety and panic, and eating disorders. I also work with couples who are looking to improve their relationship, and I am registered with the Emotionally Focused Therapy Institute (ICEEFT). My approach to therapy recognises that the individual, as well as their family members all have strengths and strategies which can be used to overcome symptoms and difficulties.
020 3962 0348 View 020 3962 0348

See more therapy options for Sidcup

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.