Adoption Counselling in Wells
![Photo of Elaine Hutchinson, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6c08ede-d3cb-4681-9b4d-2634cb928659/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Christopher Guy Soloman, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b187d15-e0f5-4bc1-b754-2b46bd957ca9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome to my page. I recognise the courage it takes to approach a therapist and would like to help you. Over ten years of practising, therapy has shown me time and time again how people can overcome their problems successfully and live fulfilled and happy lives. In today's pressured world, mental health problems are all too common. Maybe you're struggling with depression or stress or the problem is anxiety, or trauma, or grief. Perhaps you're struggling with a habit that started off as a pleasure but turned into an addiction over lockdown. Whatever the mental health problem, talking therapy can help.
Hello and welcome to my page. I recognise the courage it takes to approach a therapist and would like to help you. Over ten years of practising, therapy has shown me time and time again how people can overcome their problems successfully and live fulfilled and happy lives. In today's pressured world, mental health problems are all too common. Maybe you're struggling with depression or stress or the problem is anxiety, or trauma, or grief. Perhaps you're struggling with a habit that started off as a pleasure but turned into an addiction over lockdown. Whatever the mental health problem, talking therapy can help.
![Photo of Dr Lorna Stewart, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eb959b4-827d-402a-9d4e-d9e03a3bdd77/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an experienced multi-trained Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Management Consultant, with 30 years in the NHS and private sector, and 18 years in private practice. I have offered consultation to executive teams in improvement and negotiation, delivering large scale change, and setting up mental health services. I have worked for Court undertaking medicolegal assessments and psychological interventions. I have assessed neurodivergence (Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD), and worked clinically with people with the full range of mental health difficulties, significant trauma, learning disabilities, and acquired brain injury.
I am an experienced multi-trained Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Management Consultant, with 30 years in the NHS and private sector, and 18 years in private practice. I have offered consultation to executive teams in improvement and negotiation, delivering large scale change, and setting up mental health services. I have worked for Court undertaking medicolegal assessments and psychological interventions. I have assessed neurodivergence (Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD), and worked clinically with people with the full range of mental health difficulties, significant trauma, learning disabilities, and acquired brain injury.
![Photo of Jennifer Edge, MUKCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7edc223-fd7f-48d3-b7c4-80efc9eb75b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you experiencing distress or dissatisfaction in your life no matter how hard you try? This may have been going on for a long time or perhaps you're left feeling out-of-control after a loved-one dying, a big change happening in your life, or maybe illness striking you or somebody that you care for? Perhaps nothing has happened, but you feel stuck and unhappy with your life and relationships? Are you exhausted taking care of others needs whilst ignoring your own? Whatever your situation you would like to find greater ease within yourself and have more satisfying relationships with other people in your life.
Are you experiencing distress or dissatisfaction in your life no matter how hard you try? This may have been going on for a long time or perhaps you're left feeling out-of-control after a loved-one dying, a big change happening in your life, or maybe illness striking you or somebody that you care for? Perhaps nothing has happened, but you feel stuck and unhappy with your life and relationships? Are you exhausted taking care of others needs whilst ignoring your own? Whatever your situation you would like to find greater ease within yourself and have more satisfying relationships with other people in your life.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Hannah Byrne - Sapling CBT (cbt, emdr, btti for tics) , MSc](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5331e7f1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I am a specialist Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. My professional background is Educational Psychology, trauma and attachment therapy with 18 years experience supporting families. I help people aged 8- 24 who have experienced trauma, anxiety, low mood tics and care experienced young people. We will work together to build a bespoke treatment plan, I believe we all have the potential for positive wellbeing, I will work with you to uncover what this means to you. Weekly clinic held in Bath and Bristol and online.
Thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I am a specialist Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. My professional background is Educational Psychology, trauma and attachment therapy with 18 years experience supporting families. I help people aged 8- 24 who have experienced trauma, anxiety, low mood tics and care experienced young people. We will work together to build a bespoke treatment plan, I believe we all have the potential for positive wellbeing, I will work with you to uncover what this means to you. Weekly clinic held in Bath and Bristol and online.
![Photo of Steve Cutmore, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45b45fcc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide a nurturing environment in which themes and issues can be explored safely. My overall goal is to enhance client's sense of well-being and ability to thrive. I view each client as an individual who is seeking assistance in aligning with their path. I place great value on the client-therapist relationship, as a client you will experience me as committed to my work, focussed and attentive while being friendly and non-judgemental. I am happy to work face to face or via skype/phone-calls. I am open to negotiating rates if appropriate.
I provide a nurturing environment in which themes and issues can be explored safely. My overall goal is to enhance client's sense of well-being and ability to thrive. I view each client as an individual who is seeking assistance in aligning with their path. I place great value on the client-therapist relationship, as a client you will experience me as committed to my work, focussed and attentive while being friendly and non-judgemental. I am happy to work face to face or via skype/phone-calls. I am open to negotiating rates if appropriate.
![Photo of Helen Marie Yates, BACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4db01f5c-5489-47be-8c8d-a22acdc17708/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome, I have experience in many different client issues, to name some- self harm, relationship difficulties, body dysmorphia, gender dysphoria, neuro diversity, relationship difficulties, bereavement, miscarriage, infertility, addiction and trauma. I have a strong grounding in eating disorders, LGBTQ issues and sexual abuse. You may use the space how you wish to and I will be alongside you, supporting you along the way to find your own answers and come to your own solutions, conclusions and understandings. I wouldn't offer you advice but would facilitate what you would like to work on and what you wish to explore.
Hello and welcome, I have experience in many different client issues, to name some- self harm, relationship difficulties, body dysmorphia, gender dysphoria, neuro diversity, relationship difficulties, bereavement, miscarriage, infertility, addiction and trauma. I have a strong grounding in eating disorders, LGBTQ issues and sexual abuse. You may use the space how you wish to and I will be alongside you, supporting you along the way to find your own answers and come to your own solutions, conclusions and understandings. I wouldn't offer you advice but would facilitate what you would like to work on and what you wish to explore.
![Photo of Samantha Jones, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94640e4e-d709-4c3f-978c-68a5ccc24167/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about trauma informed work and believe that it is relevant to treating many conditions, from anxiety and depression to more severe complex mental health issues. Past and current abuse and neglect can leave a lasting imprint in the mind, emotions and nervous system. My method of working addresses the complex relational patterns that form as a result of this and we will work to resolve these using trauma informed strategies and build emotional processing skills.
I am passionate about trauma informed work and believe that it is relevant to treating many conditions, from anxiety and depression to more severe complex mental health issues. Past and current abuse and neglect can leave a lasting imprint in the mind, emotions and nervous system. My method of working addresses the complex relational patterns that form as a result of this and we will work to resolve these using trauma informed strategies and build emotional processing skills.
![Photo of Rose Persson - Wessex Counselling and Psychotherapy](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/454cb008-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our counselling offers help in addressing the difficult areas of your life. This might involve loss and grief, relationship troubles or problems at work. Equally, there are times when the cause is not clear but you still feel something is wrong. Colleagues, family and friends can be a great source of support but it's not always easy to confide in those closest to you. At times like these, talking to someone who is not personally involved can make a difference. A professional counsellor will listen to you without making judgments and can help you find new resources within yourself.
Our counselling offers help in addressing the difficult areas of your life. This might involve loss and grief, relationship troubles or problems at work. Equally, there are times when the cause is not clear but you still feel something is wrong. Colleagues, family and friends can be a great source of support but it's not always easy to confide in those closest to you. At times like these, talking to someone who is not personally involved can make a difference. A professional counsellor will listen to you without making judgments and can help you find new resources within yourself.
![Photo of Dr Keith Abbott, PhD, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/889028bf-fd7a-48c1-a544-957a8f1fff6c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m passionate about helping you make more of your life, whether you want to work on personal, psychological, relationship, mental health or spiritual issues or to find more meaning, fulfilment, purpose and happiness in life. I have a Masters degree (with Distinction) in Person-Centred Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice. I offer short and long term counselling and psychotherapy, and counselling supervision. I help men, women and couples of many professions, occupations and nationalities, from 18 upwards in UK and (online) overseas. I provide individual sessions, couples sessions and am a qualified counselling supervisor.
I’m passionate about helping you make more of your life, whether you want to work on personal, psychological, relationship, mental health or spiritual issues or to find more meaning, fulfilment, purpose and happiness in life. I have a Masters degree (with Distinction) in Person-Centred Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice. I offer short and long term counselling and psychotherapy, and counselling supervision. I help men, women and couples of many professions, occupations and nationalities, from 18 upwards in UK and (online) overseas. I provide individual sessions, couples sessions and am a qualified counselling supervisor.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Jane Gurney - Full Circle Counselling, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf866244-c8d0-4614-a385-d70e67c9f41f/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Fiona Atkins, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71477a0d-4676-4b45-afe3-b3e5746edc8e/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sally Coombe, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/158fd1b5-cf36-4a99-a289-0568a2b305be/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Amanda Croft, MSc, MBACP Accred, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4675468c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome. Life can be tough. Sometimes we simply need to talk with someone who can listen without judgement; who does not 'give advice' but holds the space for personal reflection, growth and development. As a registered and accredited member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP), I am an independent, experienced and professional counsellor / psychotherapist, an approved Adoption counsellor and qualified in EMDR therapy. I work with young people and adults, including couples and families, across such issues as anxiety, bereavement, depression, relationships and trauma.
Welcome. Life can be tough. Sometimes we simply need to talk with someone who can listen without judgement; who does not 'give advice' but holds the space for personal reflection, growth and development. As a registered and accredited member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP), I am an independent, experienced and professional counsellor / psychotherapist, an approved Adoption counsellor and qualified in EMDR therapy. I work with young people and adults, including couples and families, across such issues as anxiety, bereavement, depression, relationships and trauma.
![Photo of Julia Gibson - Silver Lantern Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c78f7ba1-da3a-445b-bacc-50a599a2fcc5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I’m Julia, a person-centred counsellor and a qualified adoption support counsellor. I am a registered member of BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy). I wonder what might have led you to here. Perhaps something has happened that has turned your world upside down. Maybe life feels overwhelming. Perhaps you feel lost, alone, misunderstood. We all have times when life seems a struggle, when we may feel anxious or sad or hopeless and counselling can offer a space where we can start to touch on those tender bruises inside which often leads to a greater understanding of ourselves and our situation.
Hello, I’m Julia, a person-centred counsellor and a qualified adoption support counsellor. I am a registered member of BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy). I wonder what might have led you to here. Perhaps something has happened that has turned your world upside down. Maybe life feels overwhelming. Perhaps you feel lost, alone, misunderstood. We all have times when life seems a struggle, when we may feel anxious or sad or hopeless and counselling can offer a space where we can start to touch on those tender bruises inside which often leads to a greater understanding of ourselves and our situation.
![Photo of Amy Medley, MA, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fdb85e4-4b4d-4805-9ab0-5fd727d1b920/1/320x400.jpeg)
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 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 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.
![Photo of Jeni Gill, MA, HCPC-Art Therap., Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/965ea458-3e2a-4d13-92d3-ac5bbcac009c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello I’m Jeni. As an experienced Dramatherapist I have found that when things are too hard to talk about initially, creativity can help us to express and process and then release what no longer serves us. My private practice allows me to work online with adults, and young people, and in a Primary school with a specialist speech and language unit. I have also worked in numerous Secondary schools. I have experience in working with anxiety, low self esteem, pre and post bereavement, fostering and adoption (life story work) neurodiversity and survivors of sexual assault
Hello I’m Jeni. As an experienced Dramatherapist I have found that when things are too hard to talk about initially, creativity can help us to express and process and then release what no longer serves us. My private practice allows me to work online with adults, and young people, and in a Primary school with a specialist speech and language unit. I have also worked in numerous Secondary schools. I have experience in working with anxiety, low self esteem, pre and post bereavement, fostering and adoption (life story work) neurodiversity and survivors of sexual assault
![Photo of George Gotts, MBACP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/534a5d4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Ana Garcia, MA, MBABCP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36149b23-613d-4a8e-bdd6-a2916510c253/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Phoenix-Rises Enow-Anyor-Morongho Tabot-Ojong - Core Illumination Healing, MBACP, Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b35c2e3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
For several years, I have offered short and long-term psychotherapy to 16+,adults & adoptive families within NHS,Social Services, Private & Charity Settings,plus a decade of attachment based child, family & adoption experience.
Perhaps you're feeling down; depressed, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, stuck or lonely. Maybe you're unsure about a relationship, challenged by life transitions or a relationship breakdown.You might be struggling with childhood trauma, parenting, adoption, infertility, loss and identity issues. Or just feeling that you aren't living the life you deserve. Life gets tough sometimes, yet out of our vulnerabilities lie our strength. Therapy is a process of self-discovery & growth that helps you to understand aspects of your life that may be holding you back, heal and ignite passion and fulfilment. I have faith and welcome you as you are
For several years, I have offered short and long-term psychotherapy to 16+,adults & adoptive families within NHS,Social Services, Private & Charity Settings,plus a decade of attachment based child, family & adoption experience.
Perhaps you're feeling down; depressed, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, stuck or lonely. Maybe you're unsure about a relationship, challenged by life transitions or a relationship breakdown.You might be struggling with childhood trauma, parenting, adoption, infertility, loss and identity issues. Or just feeling that you aren't living the life you deserve. Life gets tough sometimes, yet out of our vulnerabilities lie our strength. Therapy is a process of self-discovery & growth that helps you to understand aspects of your life that may be holding you back, heal and ignite passion and fulfilment. I have faith and welcome you as you are
See more therapy options for Wells
Nearby Adoption Counsellors Searches for Wells
- Bath
- Bridgwater
- Bristol
- Chippenham
- Dorchester
- Frome
- Glastonbury
- Shaftesbury
- Taunton
- Trowbridge
- Warminster
- Yeovil
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.