Adoption Counselling in Tiverton

Photo of Dr Joanna North, PhD, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Dr Joanna North
Psychotherapist, PhD, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tiverton EX16
Waitlist for new clients
Counselling and Psychotherapy can help you feel more in the driving seat of your life, lowering anxiety and increasing your wellbeing. I have worked in the field of mental health and wellbeing for thirty years and focus on children, adults and families. Life today places many demands on us that can be distressing and overwhelming. Traumatic events can leave us lost and unable to recover. Sessions offer the ability to manage emotions, overcome symptoms and focus on what is important to you.
Counselling and Psychotherapy can help you feel more in the driving seat of your life, lowering anxiety and increasing your wellbeing. I have worked in the field of mental health and wellbeing for thirty years and focus on children, adults and families. Life today places many demands on us that can be distressing and overwhelming. Traumatic events can leave us lost and unable to recover. Sessions offer the ability to manage emotions, overcome symptoms and focus on what is important to you.
01794 330942 View 01794 330942
Photo of Andrew Cowlin - Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy, MBACP, Counsellor
Newid Integrated Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tiverton EX16
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
Newid pronounced "Nowed" is Welsh for change. I chose this name not only to reflect my heritage but also to reflect that change is the only constant in life. We all travel with it, yet all our experiences can be profoundly different. I believe that counselling is a collaborative process in which we work together on what you want to change or explore in a safe non-judgemental environment. I offer an integrative approach where we work side-by-side to understand your past and help you discover new ways of coping and moving forward. I recognise that courage is not fearless and making the 1st step can be challenging in it's self.
01884 219224 View 01884 219224
Photo of Karen Downes, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Downes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Tiverton EX16
I will guide you gently through how we might work together. We will discuss confidentiality and answer any and all questions you might have in a relaxed space. If you would like me to, I could help in determining your goals in therapy and will make a plan to achieve these together, in the form of a type of “contract” that we work together on. Be prepared to laugh, cry, stretch, grow and reach goals you might have thought were impossible.
I will guide you gently through how we might work together. We will discuss confidentiality and answer any and all questions you might have in a relaxed space. If you would like me to, I could help in determining your goals in therapy and will make a plan to achieve these together, in the form of a type of “contract” that we work together on. Be prepared to laugh, cry, stretch, grow and reach goals you might have thought were impossible.
01292 433130 View 01292 433130
Photo of Karen Janas - Karen Janas - Spark Consulting Services Ltd, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Janas - Spark Consulting Services Ltd
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Tiverton EX16
I offer professional, experienced counselling for individuals, couples, young people, employers and employees. If you are finding life difficult, counselling can help, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, obsessive thoughts, panic, stress, low self-esteem, confidence, your relationships, grief or something else. Counselling is not just about helping you solve problems its about helping you make positive changes that enhance your life. I provide a non-judgemental, confidential space, where you can feel safe to explore things about yourself and any problems you may be facing. Clinic in Wellington, Somerset
I offer professional, experienced counselling for individuals, couples, young people, employers and employees. If you are finding life difficult, counselling can help, whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, anger, obsessive thoughts, panic, stress, low self-esteem, confidence, your relationships, grief or something else. Counselling is not just about helping you solve problems its about helping you make positive changes that enhance your life. I provide a non-judgemental, confidential space, where you can feel safe to explore things about yourself and any problems you may be facing. Clinic in Wellington, Somerset
07480 536717 View 07480 536717
Photo of Monika Walde, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Monika Walde
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Tiverton EX16
Hello and a warm welcome. I am interested to hear what brings you to counselling. I will offer you a safe space to share your story and to feel listen to. A space where you feel able to say how it is and you feel understood without being judged. I will be genuine and together we can explore your experiences in our sessions. EMDR is another approach I am trained in. I believe in humans' abilities to change, to grow and to heal and I feel positive that counselling can facilitate this.
Hello and a warm welcome. I am interested to hear what brings you to counselling. I will offer you a safe space to share your story and to feel listen to. A space where you feel able to say how it is and you feel understood without being judged. I will be genuine and together we can explore your experiences in our sessions. EMDR is another approach I am trained in. I believe in humans' abilities to change, to grow and to heal and I feel positive that counselling can facilitate this.
01823 589548 View 01823 589548
Photo of Laura Turley, MBACP, Counsellor
Laura Turley
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Tiverton EX16
I am a fully insured and registered MBACP Integrative Therapist, Supervisor and a member of the Westcountry Association of Counsellors. I have been in professional practice for 10 years, and work with 18+ individuals and groups using a variety of different counselling models and methods. Although I would broadly describe myself as a 'Person-Centred Therapist', my methods are entirely client-led and not dictated by any personal preference in terms of therapeutic model.
I am a fully insured and registered MBACP Integrative Therapist, Supervisor and a member of the Westcountry Association of Counsellors. I have been in professional practice for 10 years, and work with 18+ individuals and groups using a variety of different counselling models and methods. Although I would broadly describe myself as a 'Person-Centred Therapist', my methods are entirely client-led and not dictated by any personal preference in terms of therapeutic model.
01392 549075 View 01392 549075

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Claire Perrott, MBACP, Counsellor
Claire Perrott
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Cullompton EX15
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you living your life how you want to? Do you need some help navigating life? Get in contact for a free 15 minute initial consultation to find out how I can help you. I offer individual counselling online, in person at various locations and undertake home visits and work outside through walking therapy. I am available to work with adults and teenagers.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you living your life how you want to? Do you need some help navigating life? Get in contact for a free 15 minute initial consultation to find out how I can help you. I offer individual counselling online, in person at various locations and undertake home visits and work outside through walking therapy. I am available to work with adults and teenagers.
01392 321123 View 01392 321123

Online Therapists

Photo of Ana Garcia, MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Ana Garcia
Psychotherapist, MA, MBABCP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bristol BS31
I also bring in other approaches (DBT, trauma and attachment) alongside experiences of fostering and adoption.
Hi I’m Ana, an accredited CBT Therapist working with children, young people and adults. I have worked in mental health for almost two decades. Are you feeling stuck, lost or finding things difficult to manage? This may include struggling with waiting lists for support or guidance around Autism and/or ADHD? Are you unsure on what direction to go next or what choices to make? I would encourage you to reach out and get in touch with me. I work with a range of mental health difficulties, and I will work with you to help adapt our work to focus on your own individual needs and experiences, supporting you to achieve your goals.
I also bring in other approaches (DBT, trauma and attachment) alongside experiences of fostering and adoption.
Hi I’m Ana, an accredited CBT Therapist working with children, young people and adults. I have worked in mental health for almost two decades. Are you feeling stuck, lost or finding things difficult to manage? This may include struggling with waiting lists for support or guidance around Autism and/or ADHD? Are you unsure on what direction to go next or what choices to make? I would encourage you to reach out and get in touch with me. I work with a range of mental health difficulties, and I will work with you to help adapt our work to focus on your own individual needs and experiences, supporting you to achieve your goals.
01225 258839 View 01225 258839
Photo of Andrew Bretton, MBACP, Counsellor
Andrew Bretton
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS15
Waitlist for new clients
I particular experience working with either anyone affected and impacted by adoption, fostering and kinship care, whether as a child, parent or carer or who has experienced spiritual and religious abuse, adverse religious experiences and faith changing or shifting.
My name is Andy and I will meet you with warmth and acceptance wherever you are in your life, without any expectation or judgement of you. Providing a safe and confidential space for you is paramount to me. I have found that anyone given an accepting space in which they are truly heard can, and does, benefit and develop. I am an integrative counsellor and see the therapeutic relationship as central to counselling.
I particular experience working with either anyone affected and impacted by adoption, fostering and kinship care, whether as a child, parent or carer or who has experienced spiritual and religious abuse, adverse religious experiences and faith changing or shifting.
My name is Andy and I will meet you with warmth and acceptance wherever you are in your life, without any expectation or judgement of you. Providing a safe and confidential space for you is paramount to me. I have found that anyone given an accepting space in which they are truly heard can, and does, benefit and develop. I am an integrative counsellor and see the therapeutic relationship as central to counselling.
0117 463 5511 View 0117 463 5511
Photo of Emma Reeves, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist
Emma Reeves
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Bristol BS6
I am specialised in working with trauma and have worked with a wide range of issues with clients: sexual abuse, domestic abuse, physical abuse, bereavement, suicide, adoption, looked after children/ young people.
I am Art Psychotherapist providing art therapy sessions to adults and young adults in Bristol. I have 15 years experience practicing as an Art Psychotherapist with children, young people and adults in the voluntary sector. I am currently working within the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. I am familiar with working with the wide range of symptoms arising from trauma such as: anxiety, depression, self harm, behavioural difficulties, dissociation, hyperactivity, hypervigilance, eating difficulties, social difficulties, anger, aggression, etc. I am specialised in working with trauma.
I am specialised in working with trauma and have worked with a wide range of issues with clients: sexual abuse, domestic abuse, physical abuse, bereavement, suicide, adoption, looked after children/ young people.
I am Art Psychotherapist providing art therapy sessions to adults and young adults in Bristol. I have 15 years experience practicing as an Art Psychotherapist with children, young people and adults in the voluntary sector. I am currently working within the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. I am familiar with working with the wide range of symptoms arising from trauma such as: anxiety, depression, self harm, behavioural difficulties, dissociation, hyperactivity, hypervigilance, eating difficulties, social difficulties, anger, aggression, etc. I am specialised in working with trauma.
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Photo of Fiona Atkins, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Fiona Atkins
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Eastleigh SO50
  I offer counselling for anxiety, depression, adoption, bereavement, chronic illness and trauma, as well as many other areas.
Maybe you have been experiencing anxiety or a recent bereavement?  Perhaps you need some support following a traumatic event or coping with a chronic illness.  It can be a daunting decision to start counselling, and I aim to help you by providing a safe, non judgmental space to explore your feelings. I have worked with families and young people in a variety of settings, and have experience of looked after and previously looked after children, and ADHD and Autism.  I have several years experience of working in the public sector, safeguarding families and supporting them through difficult times.
  I offer counselling for anxiety, depression, adoption, bereavement, chronic illness and trauma, as well as many other areas.
Maybe you have been experiencing anxiety or a recent bereavement?  Perhaps you need some support following a traumatic event or coping with a chronic illness.  It can be a daunting decision to start counselling, and I aim to help you by providing a safe, non judgmental space to explore your feelings. I have worked with families and young people in a variety of settings, and have experience of looked after and previously looked after children, and ADHD and Autism.  I have several years experience of working in the public sector, safeguarding families and supporting them through difficult times.
023 9431 1761 View 023 9431 1761
Photo of Louise Pivcevic, MA, BACP, Psychotherapist
Louise Pivcevic
Psychotherapist, MA, BACP
Verified Verified
Bath BA1
I'm a Tavistock trained psychotherapist for adolescents, young adults and parents. Specialisms include young adult mental health, parenting and successful co-parenting through separation/divorce, adoption support. I have 16 years experience in the NHS and a 10 year+ private practice. I have a warm, empathic approach, meeting you where you are. I aim to help you discover more freedom and authenticity in how you relate to yourself and others. I can help with issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship and psychosexual difficulties. Member of BACP, ACP and Tavistock Society of Psychotherapists.
I'm a Tavistock trained psychotherapist for adolescents, young adults and parents. Specialisms include young adult mental health, parenting and successful co-parenting through separation/divorce, adoption support. I have 16 years experience in the NHS and a 10 year+ private practice. I have a warm, empathic approach, meeting you where you are. I aim to help you discover more freedom and authenticity in how you relate to yourself and others. I can help with issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship and psychosexual difficulties. Member of BACP, ACP and Tavistock Society of Psychotherapists.
01480 773558 View 01480 773558
Photo of Alicia Carolina Williams - Mariposa Psychotherapy and Counselling , MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Mariposa Psychotherapy and Counselling
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bristol BS20
My previous employment has informed my current practice; leaning towards a special interest in adoption and attachment issues, as well as family dynamics.
I am an integrative trauma-informed Psychotherapist, drawing from a variety of therapeutic models to suit each individual I work with. I work relationally, focusing on you and your needs whilst facilitating a safe, judgement-free space enabling you to bring whatever you feel you can in the moment. I believe that the basis to any therapeutic relationship is trust and connection, and this creates a position from which we can begin our work collaboratively. You may be experiencing anxiety, stress at work, attachment issues, or relationship difficulties, these can be as a consequence of past traumas or adverse childhood experiences.
My previous employment has informed my current practice; leaning towards a special interest in adoption and attachment issues, as well as family dynamics.
I am an integrative trauma-informed Psychotherapist, drawing from a variety of therapeutic models to suit each individual I work with. I work relationally, focusing on you and your needs whilst facilitating a safe, judgement-free space enabling you to bring whatever you feel you can in the moment. I believe that the basis to any therapeutic relationship is trust and connection, and this creates a position from which we can begin our work collaboratively. You may be experiencing anxiety, stress at work, attachment issues, or relationship difficulties, these can be as a consequence of past traumas or adverse childhood experiences.
01275 402834 View 01275 402834
Photo of Sally Coombe, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sally Coombe
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Christchurch BH23
Waitlist for new clients
I've supported people with many issues; anxiety, depression, postnatal depression, OCD, relationship difficulties, sexuality, identity, gender dysphoria, self esteem, self harm, abuse, adoption, trauma, bereavement/loss.
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
I've supported people with many issues; anxiety, depression, postnatal depression, OCD, relationship difficulties, sexuality, identity, gender dysphoria, self esteem, self harm, abuse, adoption, trauma, bereavement/loss.
You may be reading this as you’re finding things in life difficult at the moment. You may be struggling with thoughts or certain circumstances, maybe you can’t pin point what you’re going through; you just know you need some support. I offer you a safe and non judgmental space to explore what is happening, and help you to understand why you’re feeling the way you are. I personalise my work with you and provide tools to support you to work through the difficulties you are experiencing. You may be searching for the right counsellor, or you may be the parent/carer of a young person who needs support.
01737 949810 View 01737 949810
Photo of Amy Medley, MA, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Amy Medley
Psychotherapist, MA, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Cardiff CF10
I offer support with and have experience of working with: Depression and Anxiety, Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+, Shame, Trauma, Bereavement, Burnout, Adoption and whatever else emerges in our work together.
Welcome. I’m Amy, an advanced trainee Gestalt Psychotherapist and qualified Relational Counsellor with 6 years of practise experience. I consider myself to be a contemporary relational Gestaltist, meaning that you and I work, explore and experience together to give you greater awareness and choice about your life. I work as creatively as you are comfortable with. If you are looking to perhaps learn and understand yourself more so that you may experience life in a new way, I would love to work with you to achieve your goals.
I offer support with and have experience of working with: Depression and Anxiety, Neurodiversity, LGBTQIA+, Shame, Trauma, Bereavement, Burnout, Adoption and whatever else emerges in our work together.
Welcome. I’m Amy, an advanced trainee Gestalt Psychotherapist and qualified Relational Counsellor with 6 years of practise experience. I consider myself to be a contemporary relational Gestaltist, meaning that you and I work, explore and experience together to give you greater awareness and choice about your life. I work as creatively as you are comfortable with. If you are looking to perhaps learn and understand yourself more so that you may experience life in a new way, I would love to work with you to achieve your goals.
01446 501513 View 01446 501513
Photo of Celia Stewart, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Celia Stewart
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frome BA11
I have a special interest in adoptees and the issues adoption can bring.
I am a qualified counsellor and complementary health practitioner and tutor. I studied counselling and addiction at the University of Bath and I also have wide ranging life and work experience. Most of us can have times in life when it seems as though we can't cope and we may feel worried, fearful or confused. At these times it can be helpful to give ourselves the gift of speaking to someone outside of our family or friendship group. Someone we can be honest with, without fear of judgement or opinion.
I have a special interest in adoptees and the issues adoption can bring.
I am a qualified counsellor and complementary health practitioner and tutor. I studied counselling and addiction at the University of Bath and I also have wide ranging life and work experience. Most of us can have times in life when it seems as though we can't cope and we may feel worried, fearful or confused. At these times it can be helpful to give ourselves the gift of speaking to someone outside of our family or friendship group. Someone we can be honest with, without fear of judgement or opinion.
01373 489237 View 01373 489237
Photo of Karen Prescod Mbacp (Accred) Ncps Prof Accred - Karen Prescod - KarenCounselling, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Karen Prescod - KarenCounselling
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bridgend CF35
My specialities are: Bereavement/Grief, Adoption, Work-life balance, and relationships (individuals only).
Do you need a safe confidential place to speak openly, with someone neutral and non-judgemental? You may be looking to make some changes, or have a dilemma to talk through. Maybe you've lost a loved one or pet, feel isolated or stressed, or have a problem that's preventing you from moving forward. I work to understand things from your viewpoint, and to build a trusting therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable enough to be yourself. I listen, understand, accept, and believe, and appreciate that talking about feelings is difficult. Being interactive means that you'll get much more than 'hmms' and 'uh-huhs' from me.
My specialities are: Bereavement/Grief, Adoption, Work-life balance, and relationships (individuals only).
Do you need a safe confidential place to speak openly, with someone neutral and non-judgemental? You may be looking to make some changes, or have a dilemma to talk through. Maybe you've lost a loved one or pet, feel isolated or stressed, or have a problem that's preventing you from moving forward. I work to understand things from your viewpoint, and to build a trusting therapeutic relationship where you feel comfortable enough to be yourself. I listen, understand, accept, and believe, and appreciate that talking about feelings is difficult. Being interactive means that you'll get much more than 'hmms' and 'uh-huhs' from me.
01656 336858 View 01656 336858
Photo of Elaine Hutchinson, Counsellor
Elaine Hutchinson
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Wells BA5
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, TraumaPlay and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
Hi, I'm Elaine. I'm a child & adolescent therapist & counsellor who supports children, teens & their families to manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges. I work with children & young people aged 6-25 (as well as some adults) and support them with a huge range of issues from anxiety and worries about school, fostering and adoption, to trauma, bereavement, sexual abuse and domestic violence, covering pretty much everything you can think of in-between. I'm an accredited therapist who offers play & creative arts therapy, TraumaPlay and talking therapy. I have a therapy dog who loves to be involved.
01749 605317 View 01749 605317
Photo of Jane Gurney - Full Circle Counselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Full Circle Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS20
I am qualified to Diploma level as a Solution Focused Hypnotherapist and also have a Certificate in Adoption Support.
With no waiting list and sessions available I can offer counselling & hypnotherapy to help you recover from depression, fear and anxiety through motivation & perspective thus finding the joy that you once had in your life. Anxiety, fear & hopelessness are some emotions that can linger post traumatic events, again I can help you overcome these symptoms. Loss of a loved one or diagnoses of a life limiting condition are devastating events & the pain of this sometimes unbearable. Feelings of guilt, anger & grief can become apparent & each individual responds differently. I am here to help you through your concerns of the future.
I am qualified to Diploma level as a Solution Focused Hypnotherapist and also have a Certificate in Adoption Support.
With no waiting list and sessions available I can offer counselling & hypnotherapy to help you recover from depression, fear and anxiety through motivation & perspective thus finding the joy that you once had in your life. Anxiety, fear & hopelessness are some emotions that can linger post traumatic events, again I can help you overcome these symptoms. Loss of a loved one or diagnoses of a life limiting condition are devastating events & the pain of this sometimes unbearable. Feelings of guilt, anger & grief can become apparent & each individual responds differently. I am here to help you through your concerns of the future.
0117 325 2304 View 0117 325 2304
Photo of George Gotts, MBACP, Counsellor
George Gotts
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bridport DT6
I’ve worked with clients with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, workplace and student stress, loss, bereavement, childhood issues including abuse, eating disorders, cancer rehabilitation, fertility, adoption, trauma, panic, anger and major life transitions.
Are you feeling that you need a supportive relationship to help with issues in your life? At different times in life we may feel overwhelmed, alone or stuck and it can help to talk in a non judgemental setting. You may be considering therapy for many reasons and the first step is to just make contact. This can bring feelings of nervousness but it can also be a very exciting moment. You can ask for the help and support you need. It’s very important that you feel completely comfortable with your counsellor, that they are a person you can share all of yourself with.
I’ve worked with clients with a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, workplace and student stress, loss, bereavement, childhood issues including abuse, eating disorders, cancer rehabilitation, fertility, adoption, trauma, panic, anger and major life transitions.
Are you feeling that you need a supportive relationship to help with issues in your life? At different times in life we may feel overwhelmed, alone or stuck and it can help to talk in a non judgemental setting. You may be considering therapy for many reasons and the first step is to just make contact. This can bring feelings of nervousness but it can also be a very exciting moment. You can ask for the help and support you need. It’s very important that you feel completely comfortable with your counsellor, that they are a person you can share all of yourself with.
01308 802020 View 01308 802020

See more therapy options for Tiverton

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.