Adoption Therapists in Bell, CA

Photo of Trisha Stewart, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trisha Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bell, CA 90201
Trisha Stewart, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, (LMFT), works with individuals, families, couples, young adults, and teens 16+ and adoption issues. She understands how debilitating anxiety and depression can be and collaborates with you to identify your needs and develop a plan for a return to health and well-being. Trisha has 30 years of experience working in community mental health and 12 years as a licensed professional. She works well with individuals experiencing, depression, anxiety, anger, grief and loss, parenting, and attachment.
Trisha Stewart, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, (LMFT), works with individuals, families, couples, young adults, and teens 16+ and adoption issues. She understands how debilitating anxiety and depression can be and collaborates with you to identify your needs and develop a plan for a return to health and well-being. Trisha has 30 years of experience working in community mental health and 12 years as a licensed professional. She works well with individuals experiencing, depression, anxiety, anger, grief and loss, parenting, and attachment.
(323) 403-0265 View (323) 403-0265
Photo of Frederick Wahlig, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frederick Wahlig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bell, CA 90201
I also have experience with adoption issues, trauma, childhood abuse, and work-related problems.
Hello, my name is Fred. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I earned my master's in social work at San Diego State University. My approach to therapy is to provide support to my clients who are experiencing challenges in their lives. I have an eclectic approach to working with my clients since there is not one therapeutic framework that meets the needs of all clients. I tailor my therapeutic modality to the needs of the client. I will meet you with empathy, openness, and unconditional positive regard.
I also have experience with adoption issues, trauma, childhood abuse, and work-related problems.
Hello, my name is Fred. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I earned my master's in social work at San Diego State University. My approach to therapy is to provide support to my clients who are experiencing challenges in their lives. I have an eclectic approach to working with my clients since there is not one therapeutic framework that meets the needs of all clients. I tailor my therapeutic modality to the needs of the client. I will meet you with empathy, openness, and unconditional positive regard.
(626) 873-8265 View (626) 873-8265
Photo of Victoria Catlin-Walton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Catlin-Walton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bell, CA 90201
My name is Victoria Catlin-Walton, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Santa Clarita, California working with people statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals from young adults to seasoned professionals and I specialize in anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship matters using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy to help people experience something that feels better.
My name is Victoria Catlin-Walton, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Santa Clarita, California working with people statewide via telehealth. I work with individuals from young adults to seasoned professionals and I specialize in anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship matters using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy to help people experience something that feels better.
(323) 985-3185 View (323) 985-3185
Photo of Jonnetta Thomas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonnetta Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bell, CA 90201
Hello! I am Jonnetta Appianing, a Licensed Marriage & Child Family Therapist with 5 years of postgraduate experience. Being a Licensed Mental Health Therapist has given me the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and diagnoses from all cultures facing many life stressors including, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, trauma, PTSD, OCD, substance abuse, interpersonal relationship, addictions and eating disorders. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with children, teens adults, and couples.
Hello! I am Jonnetta Appianing, a Licensed Marriage & Child Family Therapist with 5 years of postgraduate experience. Being a Licensed Mental Health Therapist has given me the opportunity to work in a variety of different roles, settings, and diagnoses from all cultures facing many life stressors including, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, trauma, PTSD, OCD, substance abuse, interpersonal relationship, addictions and eating disorders. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with children, teens adults, and couples.
(650) 297-8412 View (650) 297-8412

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Sims, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Sims
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90043  (Online Only)
Life can feel unbelievably challenging and overwhelming at times and you don't have to do it alone. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, are struggling to cope, or need someone to talk to, I can help and am here to support you. I have worked with individuals and families who have experienced complex trauma, loss, adoption, and other challenges. Trauma can impact many areas of our lives including our relationships, our ability to cope, how we function, and how we see and navigate the world. I am currently available for online appointments only.
Life can feel unbelievably challenging and overwhelming at times and you don't have to do it alone. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, are struggling to cope, or need someone to talk to, I can help and am here to support you. I have worked with individuals and families who have experienced complex trauma, loss, adoption, and other challenges. Trauma can impact many areas of our lives including our relationships, our ability to cope, how we function, and how we see and navigate the world. I am currently available for online appointments only.
(530) 464-1423 View (530) 464-1423
Photo of Angela Gee, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Gee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Each member of the adoption triad - adoptee, birth mother, adoptive parent, may experience a different set of challenges that affect our relationships within the family, and with the outside world.
Are you looking for a safe space to share your feelings; to better understand your emotional self? If you are experiencing relationship problems, feel stuck or blocked, anxious or depressed, we can work together to understand these issues. Sometimes we know that things don't feel right, but can't put our finger on it. Through guided exploration, we can discover underlying causes for these feelings, and develop a more authentic connection with ourselves and with others. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents.
Each member of the adoption triad - adoptee, birth mother, adoptive parent, may experience a different set of challenges that affect our relationships within the family, and with the outside world.
Are you looking for a safe space to share your feelings; to better understand your emotional self? If you are experiencing relationship problems, feel stuck or blocked, anxious or depressed, we can work together to understand these issues. Sometimes we know that things don't feel right, but can't put our finger on it. Through guided exploration, we can discover underlying causes for these feelings, and develop a more authentic connection with ourselves and with others. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents.
(310) 845-6975 View (310) 845-6975
Photo of Debra Padmini - Debra Padmini Bergman Therapy For The Soul, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debra Padmini Bergman Therapy For The Soul
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
As an adoptive parent and an adoption focused therapist, I bring a unique understanding of the identity/developmental issues.
Therapy is a process of self-discovery that often entails delving into past relationships and trauma to uncover their affect on our relationships with ourselves, our families and the outside world. My work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families is designed to restore trust, joy & zest and to develop meaningful connections and skills to thrive-mindfulness, authenticity & inner strength. As a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapist, I work with an attachment focused interpersonal neurobiological approach creating a safe space to nurture individuals, couples and families in any orientation or socio-economic status.
As an adoptive parent and an adoption focused therapist, I bring a unique understanding of the identity/developmental issues.
Therapy is a process of self-discovery that often entails delving into past relationships and trauma to uncover their affect on our relationships with ourselves, our families and the outside world. My work with children, adolescents, individuals, couples and families is designed to restore trust, joy & zest and to develop meaningful connections and skills to thrive-mindfulness, authenticity & inner strength. As a Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapist, I work with an attachment focused interpersonal neurobiological approach creating a safe space to nurture individuals, couples and families in any orientation or socio-economic status.
(323) 622-1987 View (323) 622-1987
Photo of Jennifer Quirina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Quirina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
My particular areas of interest include life transitions, new parenthood, adoption, fertility, anxiety, school issues and career counseling.
People come to therapy at different times, for different reasons, and with different needs. Perhaps you need a space to process current or past events in your life, or maybe you know there is a difficult change you need to make. Maybe both, or maybe you're not sure. My approach to therapy is to provide the specific balance you need between support and challenge. As we develop the therapeutic relationship, it is my hope that you will feel safe and supported to do the kind of work that is most beneficial to you at this time.
My particular areas of interest include life transitions, new parenthood, adoption, fertility, anxiety, school issues and career counseling.
People come to therapy at different times, for different reasons, and with different needs. Perhaps you need a space to process current or past events in your life, or maybe you know there is a difficult change you need to make. Maybe both, or maybe you're not sure. My approach to therapy is to provide the specific balance you need between support and challenge. As we develop the therapeutic relationship, it is my hope that you will feel safe and supported to do the kind of work that is most beneficial to you at this time.
(630) 283-7364 View (630) 283-7364
Photo of Jessica Cowley, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Cowley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
My personal experience as an adoptive parent and former foster parent gives me unique insight into the complexities of adoption, and I am deeply invested in providing compassionate care to folks in the adoption constellation.
I work with adults, children, and couples using a strengths-based approach that helps create insight, foster resilience, and alleviate suffering. I believe that healing happens in relationship, and strive to create a sense of safety in the therapeutic space through warmth, humor, curiosity, and collaboration. I bring an intersectional perspective to therapy, exploring with clients the nuanced interplay between culture, society and mental health. My practice is trauma-informed and honors the profound connection between body and mind, employing somatic techniques to deepen awareness of emotions and facilitate healing.
My personal experience as an adoptive parent and former foster parent gives me unique insight into the complexities of adoption, and I am deeply invested in providing compassionate care to folks in the adoption constellation.
I work with adults, children, and couples using a strengths-based approach that helps create insight, foster resilience, and alleviate suffering. I believe that healing happens in relationship, and strive to create a sense of safety in the therapeutic space through warmth, humor, curiosity, and collaboration. I bring an intersectional perspective to therapy, exploring with clients the nuanced interplay between culture, society and mental health. My practice is trauma-informed and honors the profound connection between body and mind, employing somatic techniques to deepen awareness of emotions and facilitate healing.
(213) 377-3257 View (213) 377-3257
Photo of Marika Gonzalez Reznichek, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marika Gonzalez Reznichek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90002  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQ+ identity, self-esteem, parent-child attachment, and foster care/ adoption.
Life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up and make it hard to cope with everyday tasks. Together we can explore your inner strengths and how to use them moving forward and find healing throughout the process. I am dedicated to social justice and believe that it’s important to find awareness of one’s resilience in the process of self-discovery and acceptance.
My areas of expertise include anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, LGBTQ+ identity, self-esteem, parent-child attachment, and foster care/ adoption.
Life can feel overwhelming. An unexpected event can suddenly throw everything off balance, or many smaller stresses can build up and make it hard to cope with everyday tasks. Together we can explore your inner strengths and how to use them moving forward and find healing throughout the process. I am dedicated to social justice and believe that it’s important to find awareness of one’s resilience in the process of self-discovery and acceptance.
(424) 581-1774 View (424) 581-1774
Photo of Robyn Harrod, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Harrod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90047
I have been a practicing LCSW in Los Angeles for close to 30 years. My expertise is in infertility and reproductive counseling and in the field of family building. My goal is to help individuals and couples cope with the challenges of infertility and explore alternative family building options including surrogacy, egg, sperm, or embryo donation, foster care, & adoption. The decision to start your family through alternative means can be one of the most challenging, as well as rewarding experiences in your life. With personal and professional experience, I provide support and compassion, calming the journey's inevitable stresses.
I have been a practicing LCSW in Los Angeles for close to 30 years. My expertise is in infertility and reproductive counseling and in the field of family building. My goal is to help individuals and couples cope with the challenges of infertility and explore alternative family building options including surrogacy, egg, sperm, or embryo donation, foster care, & adoption. The decision to start your family through alternative means can be one of the most challenging, as well as rewarding experiences in your life. With personal and professional experience, I provide support and compassion, calming the journey's inevitable stresses.
(213) 699-4550 View (213) 699-4550
Photo of Suzan Olson Davis, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Suzan Olson Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026
My personal journey as an adoptive mother navigating an open adoption has helped me gain a deep understanding of the complex vulnerabilities those in the adoption community experience, and has driven my desire to help us understand ourselves and each other better.
All of us experience twists and turns, triumphs and losses as we navigate our own unique paths. As a supportive co-collaborator, I will compassionately guide you through life's numerous obstacles – identifying and exploring the challenges which are blocking you from living your preferred life. Together, we’ll build a solid foundation to make space for new narratives of empowerment inspired by your values, hopes, and dreams. My therapeutic approach is integrative and grounded in mindfulness - drawing from various therapeutic modalities in order to fit your own unique needs.
My personal journey as an adoptive mother navigating an open adoption has helped me gain a deep understanding of the complex vulnerabilities those in the adoption community experience, and has driven my desire to help us understand ourselves and each other better.
All of us experience twists and turns, triumphs and losses as we navigate our own unique paths. As a supportive co-collaborator, I will compassionately guide you through life's numerous obstacles – identifying and exploring the challenges which are blocking you from living your preferred life. Together, we’ll build a solid foundation to make space for new narratives of empowerment inspired by your values, hopes, and dreams. My therapeutic approach is integrative and grounded in mindfulness - drawing from various therapeutic modalities in order to fit your own unique needs.
(323) 991-8950 View (323) 991-8950
Photo of Hazel Gonzalez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hazel Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90037
I have experience with adoption and foster care challenges.
Hi my name is Hazel Gonzalez and I am an LMFT. I have been working with children, teens, families and adult individuals over the last 20 years. I like to get to know my client(s) and determine what approach will best benefit them. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and other modalities that best serve the Client(s). I work with Client to best determine what issue they are wanting to work on. I encourage and motivate Client through to be as active as possible in their treatment. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my treatment.I work with children, teens, families and individuals.
I have experience with adoption and foster care challenges.
Hi my name is Hazel Gonzalez and I am an LMFT. I have been working with children, teens, families and adult individuals over the last 20 years. I like to get to know my client(s) and determine what approach will best benefit them. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and other modalities that best serve the Client(s). I work with Client to best determine what issue they are wanting to work on. I encourage and motivate Client through to be as active as possible in their treatment. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in my treatment.I work with children, teens, families and individuals.
(818) 862-5499 View (818) 862-5499
Photo of Desiree Marni Bramlett, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Desiree Marni Bramlett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90713
A special interest is Adoption- as a result of being adopted myself and working through my own adoption issues.
Do you need a safe place to talk where you feel completely accepted? Or are you overwhelmed and need more peace? You have come to the right place because we will help you find what you are looking for. Once this is established and we have identified what might be interfering with what you're wanting, I will begin to gently push when necessary to help you move through your stuck points. An adequate level of structure will be provided as well as a recap each week and HW. Therapy doesn't just happen in session!
A special interest is Adoption- as a result of being adopted myself and working through my own adoption issues.
Do you need a safe place to talk where you feel completely accepted? Or are you overwhelmed and need more peace? You have come to the right place because we will help you find what you are looking for. Once this is established and we have identified what might be interfering with what you're wanting, I will begin to gently push when necessary to help you move through your stuck points. An adequate level of structure will be provided as well as a recap each week and HW. Therapy doesn't just happen in session!
(213) 817-5061 View (213) 817-5061
Photo of Elaine Barrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Barrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Playa Vista, CA 90094
"It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are" (E.E. Cummings) It also takes courage to wade through this directory. And, courage to take the leap of faith to email, text, or call. So, I want you to know I am passionate about helping my clients grow and find out who you really are - and heal from what has kept you from yourself, and others. Becoming is the wondrous journey along the way. Think we may be a match? We may also be a match if you are highly sensitive, parenting a highly sensitive child, or navigating the world of adoption or later in life parenting.
"It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are" (E.E. Cummings) It also takes courage to wade through this directory. And, courage to take the leap of faith to email, text, or call. So, I want you to know I am passionate about helping my clients grow and find out who you really are - and heal from what has kept you from yourself, and others. Becoming is the wondrous journey along the way. Think we may be a match? We may also be a match if you are highly sensitive, parenting a highly sensitive child, or navigating the world of adoption or later in life parenting.
(424) 294-8919 View (424) 294-8919
Photo of Robyn Joy Park, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robyn Joy Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90040
 My practice is trauma informed & experienced in the treatment of foster care and adoption-related issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and perinatal mental health.
Together we can explore what it means to be human, to embody compassion towards oneself and others, to hold both joy and sorrow, to experience connection, to move away from internalized messages of shame, to feel liberation, to bridge our past to our future and be present in our experiences and relationships.
 My practice is trauma informed & experienced in the treatment of foster care and adoption-related issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and perinatal mental health.
Together we can explore what it means to be human, to embody compassion towards oneself and others, to hold both joy and sorrow, to experience connection, to move away from internalized messages of shame, to feel liberation, to bridge our past to our future and be present in our experiences and relationships.
(626) 508-7591 View (626) 508-7591
Photo of Keturah McClendon Baker, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keturah McClendon Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90059
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
(424) 364-1104 View (424) 364-1104
Photo of Rosalva Escanuela-Starkweather, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosalva Escanuela-Starkweather
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellflower, CA 90706
My approach is client-centered. I believe in meeting the needs of the client based on their level of functioning. I will work collaboratively with my clients to identify their strengths and/or concerns. Therapy for anxiety, Fear, and Stress. Therapy for Depression and Mood changes; therapy for Teens; Therapy for Trauma, Abuse and Neglect; Therapy for grief and loss; Adoption process.
My approach is client-centered. I believe in meeting the needs of the client based on their level of functioning. I will work collaboratively with my clients to identify their strengths and/or concerns. Therapy for anxiety, Fear, and Stress. Therapy for Depression and Mood changes; therapy for Teens; Therapy for Trauma, Abuse and Neglect; Therapy for grief and loss; Adoption process.
(562) 620-7536 View (562) 620-7536
Photo of Quiana M. Daniel, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Quiana M. Daniel
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alhambra, CA 91801
Dr. Quiana M. Daniel is a Psychological Assistant working under the supervision of Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Andrea Forbes, PSY23101. In regards to her clinical practice, Dr. Daniel has had extensive training in parent-child interactions, trauma focused therapy, parenting skills, and interpersonal relationships. In addition, she has a history of working with families who are engaged with the foster care system, adopting, or considering adoption. Dr. Daniel aspires to work with individuals, couples, and families within a safe environment to help them navigate their personal, emotional, and spiritual growth.
Dr. Quiana M. Daniel is a Psychological Assistant working under the supervision of Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Andrea Forbes, PSY23101. In regards to her clinical practice, Dr. Daniel has had extensive training in parent-child interactions, trauma focused therapy, parenting skills, and interpersonal relationships. In addition, she has a history of working with families who are engaged with the foster care system, adopting, or considering adoption. Dr. Daniel aspires to work with individuals, couples, and families within a safe environment to help them navigate their personal, emotional, and spiritual growth.
(626) 653-4345 View (626) 653-4345
Photo of Denise Quiroz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Quiroz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90015
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH AND OFFICE CLIENTS* Perhaps you are feeling depressed or anxious, maybe you are unsure about the future of a relationship, maybe trauma from childhood or other experiences keeps lingering or you just feel that you are not living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support and guidance. Through our therapeutic process, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook, self-awareness and the adoption of new attitudes, patterns, mindsets, and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you become a better YOU.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH AND OFFICE CLIENTS* Perhaps you are feeling depressed or anxious, maybe you are unsure about the future of a relationship, maybe trauma from childhood or other experiences keeps lingering or you just feel that you are not living the life you were meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support and guidance. Through our therapeutic process, I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook, self-awareness and the adoption of new attitudes, patterns, mindsets, and reactions. I have the tools and professional experience to help you become a better YOU.
(442) 200-2149 View (442) 200-2149

See more therapy options for Bell

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.