Adoption Therapists in 61745

Photo of Victoria Shirkey, LCPC, Counselor
Victoria Shirkey
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Heyworth, IL 61745
I have a proven track record in addressing diverse needs like depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal ideations, relationship issues, behavioral challenges, foster and adoption concerns, stress, ADHD, Autism, etc.
Curious about the future? Wondering if it's worth it? Seeking hope amidst challenges? Let's journey together! I'm Tori, a Southern Illinois native now in BLONO since 2021. With Poppy (my dachshund), music, and loved ones, I find joy. Warm, dedicated, open-minded—I'm here to support. Mental health in the community brings me happiness. My office is a welcoming, safe space. Therapy "aha moments" are my favorite. Personal health varies; together, we'll tailor a plan. I've worked with diverse individuals, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and more.
I have a proven track record in addressing diverse needs like depression, anxiety, trauma, suicidal ideations, relationship issues, behavioral challenges, foster and adoption concerns, stress, ADHD, Autism, etc.
Curious about the future? Wondering if it's worth it? Seeking hope amidst challenges? Let's journey together! I'm Tori, a Southern Illinois native now in BLONO since 2021. With Poppy (my dachshund), music, and loved ones, I find joy. Warm, dedicated, open-minded—I'm here to support. Mental health in the community brings me happiness. My office is a welcoming, safe space. Therapy "aha moments" are my favorite. Personal health varies; together, we'll tailor a plan. I've worked with diverse individuals, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and more.
(309) 252-4162 View (309) 252-4162
Photo of Laura Karr, MA, LCPC, CCTP-II
Laura Karr
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Heyworth, IL 61745
Now accepting new clients! When we are struggling in life, feeling stuck, hurt, confused, or alone, we all deserve a place to talk with someone who we know will not judge or shame us, but instead who will walk alongside us and help us create change, finding our hope and strength. I believe that you were designed to heal and you have everything you need inside you. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it's okay to reach out for help, support, or guidance so that you can move towards the life you want to live.
Now accepting new clients! When we are struggling in life, feeling stuck, hurt, confused, or alone, we all deserve a place to talk with someone who we know will not judge or shame us, but instead who will walk alongside us and help us create change, finding our hope and strength. I believe that you were designed to heal and you have everything you need inside you. If you are feeling overwhelmed, it's okay to reach out for help, support, or guidance so that you can move towards the life you want to live.
(309) 328-3281 View (309) 328-3281
Photo of Johanna Rayman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johanna Rayman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Heyworth, IL 61745
I am committed to working with individuals and couples who are struggling in their lives either because of a crisis, transition, relationship or long standing issue that one keeps bumping up against. By providing a safe space together we can explore your thoughts/ feelings and increase your understanding of self and others. Self-awareness leads to change and personal growth.
I am committed to working with individuals and couples who are struggling in their lives either because of a crisis, transition, relationship or long standing issue that one keeps bumping up against. By providing a safe space together we can explore your thoughts/ feelings and increase your understanding of self and others. Self-awareness leads to change and personal growth.
(203) 872-5293 View (203) 872-5293
Emily Breitweiser
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Heyworth, IL 61745
(309) 448-4307 View (309) 448-4307

See more therapy options for 61745

Adoption Therapists

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 behavioral 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, behavioral, 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.