Adoption Therapists in Encino, CA

Photo of Jody Frank West Coast Counseling And Group Therapy Center, LCSW, DCSW, CAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jody Frank West Coast Counseling And Group Therapy Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, CAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I specialize in relationship issues, Codependency, Dating, Friends, Adult Parent/Child/Sibling, Generational Trauma and Adoption.
I love what I do. My job is to listen carefully to what you say or don't say when sharing your story. I want to help you navigate challenging issues that keep you from moving forward by finding your authentic self and voice. I am a directive, interactive, patient therapist and see the therapy as proactive, mutual journey where you will learn to express yourself and be heard. Learn to take the steps toward fulfilling your emotional goals while achieving a feeling of contentment. I return all calls the day that I receive them and if I am unable to help you I will try to direct you. wcccla.com
I specialize in relationship issues, Codependency, Dating, Friends, Adult Parent/Child/Sibling, Generational Trauma and Adoption.
I love what I do. My job is to listen carefully to what you say or don't say when sharing your story. I want to help you navigate challenging issues that keep you from moving forward by finding your authentic self and voice. I am a directive, interactive, patient therapist and see the therapy as proactive, mutual journey where you will learn to express yourself and be heard. Learn to take the steps toward fulfilling your emotional goals while achieving a feeling of contentment. I return all calls the day that I receive them and if I am unable to help you I will try to direct you. wcccla.com
(818) 986-0600 x1 View (818) 986-0600 x1
Photo of Gary Michael Larkin, MA, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gary Michael Larkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children with disabilities and their families, Autism, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD, learning and behavior disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, adoption issues, Men's Issues, infertility, victims and perpetrators of crime and abuse, individuals, couples, families, and groups, and those with depression related to careers in Show Business.
I have been licensed for 18 years, and have worked with various populations. I am a client-centered behaviorist; meaning I help people change behaviors by presenting them with coping strategies and communication skills to help deal with life on life's terms. I use my experience, as well as professional life as a special education teacher for the last 22 years, a 48 year marriage, and 35 years of a personal 12-Step Program to guide my theoretical orientation to help change distorted thinking into positive choices. I listen with empathy, and offer suggestions for hope and change. .
I specialize in working with children with disabilities and their families, Autism, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD, learning and behavior disorders, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, addiction, adoption issues, Men's Issues, infertility, victims and perpetrators of crime and abuse, individuals, couples, families, and groups, and those with depression related to careers in Show Business.
I have been licensed for 18 years, and have worked with various populations. I am a client-centered behaviorist; meaning I help people change behaviors by presenting them with coping strategies and communication skills to help deal with life on life's terms. I use my experience, as well as professional life as a special education teacher for the last 22 years, a 48 year marriage, and 35 years of a personal 12-Step Program to guide my theoretical orientation to help change distorted thinking into positive choices. I listen with empathy, and offer suggestions for hope and change. .
(818) 351-7146 View (818) 351-7146
Photo of Anne K Guenther, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne K Guenther
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
I have 20+ years of clinical experience working with individuals and families. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brief Solution-Focused Treatment, and have advanced training in issues of Domestic Violence, Attachment, and Parenting, with a focus on adoption. My practice honors diversity, and welcomes all individuals and their families. Together we will identify obstacles that block the way to reaching your goals and support you to have the quality of life you desire. Whether a new challenge, or a long-held relic, we will create awareness and understanding and clear the way to a more fulfilling future.
I have 20+ years of clinical experience working with individuals and families. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brief Solution-Focused Treatment, and have advanced training in issues of Domestic Violence, Attachment, and Parenting, with a focus on adoption. My practice honors diversity, and welcomes all individuals and their families. Together we will identify obstacles that block the way to reaching your goals and support you to have the quality of life you desire. Whether a new challenge, or a long-held relic, we will create awareness and understanding and clear the way to a more fulfilling future.
(818) 869-2746 View (818) 869-2746
Photo of Hilary Rosensweet, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hilary Rosensweet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I have a passion for adoption, and a deep understanding of the complexities that may arise for both children and parents.
Hello! I specialize in working with adoption related issues. Whether you are a parent or a child/youth, I am here to help you with any challenges you may be experiencing. Perhaps you are contemplating becoming an adoptive parent or you have already finalized your adoption. Maybe you are a child who has been adopted...wherever you are in the process, I am here to support you.
I have a passion for adoption, and a deep understanding of the complexities that may arise for both children and parents.
Hello! I specialize in working with adoption related issues. Whether you are a parent or a child/youth, I am here to help you with any challenges you may be experiencing. Perhaps you are contemplating becoming an adoptive parent or you have already finalized your adoption. Maybe you are a child who has been adopted...wherever you are in the process, I am here to support you.
(747) 204-3134 View (747) 204-3134
Photo of Casey Mouton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey Mouton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I am thrilled to have joined Mavida Health as a Therapist. Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, we believe that it takes a village to raise a mama. Let Mavida be your village.
I am thrilled to have joined Mavida Health as a Therapist. Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum. We offer 1:1 therapy, couples/family therapy, group therapy, prescribing, and medication management. Just as it takes a village to raise a child, we believe that it takes a village to raise a mama. Let Mavida be your village.
(818) 873-5612 View (818) 873-5612
Photo of Casey Mouton - Mavida Health, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mavida Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum.
Just as it takes a village to raise a child, we believe that it takes a village to raise a mama. Let Mavida be your village.
Mavida Health is a deeply specialized, comprehensive mental health platform for the path to parenthood - including those trying to conceive, pregnant - including adoption and surrogacy, experiencing pregnancy loss, or in the postpartum.
Just as it takes a village to raise a child, we believe that it takes a village to raise a mama. Let Mavida be your village.
(424) 404-5875 View (424) 404-5875
Photo of Roxanna Rahban, PhD, Psychologist
Roxanna Rahban
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I am passionate about providing the highest quality assessment services for children and adults. My expertise has been cultivated through my assessment research studies, training, and treatment of disabilities and psychological conditions. My assessment services include neuropsychological, psycho-educational, and psychological testing. I also conduct med-legal, immigration, adoption, and forensic examinations. Treatment includes parenting support and ADHD/LD treatment. I guide individuals in building functional skills to cope with challenges that interfere with effective functioning. ADHD therapy provides support, structure, feedback, and the development of skills to increase self-awareness, independence, improve concentration, time-management, planning and organization skills.
I am passionate about providing the highest quality assessment services for children and adults. My expertise has been cultivated through my assessment research studies, training, and treatment of disabilities and psychological conditions. My assessment services include neuropsychological, psycho-educational, and psychological testing. I also conduct med-legal, immigration, adoption, and forensic examinations. Treatment includes parenting support and ADHD/LD treatment. I guide individuals in building functional skills to cope with challenges that interfere with effective functioning. ADHD therapy provides support, structure, feedback, and the development of skills to increase self-awareness, independence, improve concentration, time-management, planning and organization skills.
(310) 736-2747 View (310) 736-2747
Photo of Nicole “Nikki” Eigler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole “Nikki” Eigler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
I have been working in adoption and foster care for 20 years counseling expectant/birth parents, adoptive parents, families considering adoption, and adoptees.
The world of building, creating, and maintaining a family can be full of road blocks, obstacles, and joy. I provide a safe and warm environment to talk through challenges surrounding family building, fertility, adoption, parenting, grief and loss. I am here to help with bonding, transition to parenting, processing developmental delays or challenges, and the "how to" with your new child/family. I am also here as a support for any member of the adoption constellation (expectant/birth parent, adoptee, adoptive parents, grandparents, siblings, aunt/uncle, etc.) no matter what phase of the process.
I have been working in adoption and foster care for 20 years counseling expectant/birth parents, adoptive parents, families considering adoption, and adoptees.
The world of building, creating, and maintaining a family can be full of road blocks, obstacles, and joy. I provide a safe and warm environment to talk through challenges surrounding family building, fertility, adoption, parenting, grief and loss. I am here to help with bonding, transition to parenting, processing developmental delays or challenges, and the "how to" with your new child/family. I am also here as a support for any member of the adoption constellation (expectant/birth parent, adoptee, adoptive parents, grandparents, siblings, aunt/uncle, etc.) no matter what phase of the process.
(818) 923-6243 View (818) 923-6243
Photo of Erin Katz, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Erin Katz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
Whether seeking therapy for the first time or the fiftieth, it takes courage and strength. I am a firm believer that every human being is worthy and deserving of love, connectivity, and fulfilling relationships. Within those relationships we learn something unique, and seek safety and connection, but sometimes do not receive what we need. Right now you may be feeling limited in your ability to cope with your emotions, feeling hopelessness and overwhelmed with things outside your control. Whether you are going through a big change or you are having difficulty understanding your emotions, you do not need to do this alone.
Whether seeking therapy for the first time or the fiftieth, it takes courage and strength. I am a firm believer that every human being is worthy and deserving of love, connectivity, and fulfilling relationships. Within those relationships we learn something unique, and seek safety and connection, but sometimes do not receive what we need. Right now you may be feeling limited in your ability to cope with your emotions, feeling hopelessness and overwhelmed with things outside your control. Whether you are going through a big change or you are having difficulty understanding your emotions, you do not need to do this alone.
(818) 651-8561 View (818) 651-8561
Photo of Kristen Fragoso, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Fragoso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
Hello! My name is Kristen Fragoso, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients navigate the hardships of day-to-day life. I want my clients to, first and foremost, feel safe and comfortable talking with me about anything. I understand that building a relationship takes time and is the most important task in having successful sessions.
Hello! My name is Kristen Fragoso, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Southern California, working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and complex trauma. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution Focused Therapy to help my clients navigate the hardships of day-to-day life. I want my clients to, first and foremost, feel safe and comfortable talking with me about anything. I understand that building a relationship takes time and is the most important task in having successful sessions.
(562) 669-4225 View (562) 669-4225
Photo of Jennifer Lynn Ray, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Lynn Ray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
Our only job as parents is to make sure that our children are provided with all they need to achieve their dreams and become successful human beings. Sometimes what they need spans far beyond basic necessity and digs deep into emotional and mental well-being. In my practice, I work collaboratively with children and their families to help identify and solve challenges or obstacles that get in the way of achieving life's aspirations and feelings of happiness. The beauty is that children's minds are malleable, helping them to discover who they are through their inner strength is the greatest gift one can take away from therapy.
Our only job as parents is to make sure that our children are provided with all they need to achieve their dreams and become successful human beings. Sometimes what they need spans far beyond basic necessity and digs deep into emotional and mental well-being. In my practice, I work collaboratively with children and their families to help identify and solve challenges or obstacles that get in the way of achieving life's aspirations and feelings of happiness. The beauty is that children's minds are malleable, helping them to discover who they are through their inner strength is the greatest gift one can take away from therapy.
(818) 860-7429 View (818) 860-7429
Photo of Naja Martin, ACSW, MSW
Naja Martin
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
As a therapist, my mission is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I am committed to guiding and empowering you on your journey towards healing and personal growth. With empathy, compassion, and evidence-based interventions, I will work collaboratively with you to navigate life's challenges, discover your strengths, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and resilience. Your well-being is my priority, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am available on most evenings and weekends for sessions. Call to set up a consultation.
As a therapist, my mission is to provide a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. I am committed to guiding and empowering you on your journey towards healing and personal growth. With empathy, compassion, and evidence-based interventions, I will work collaboratively with you to navigate life's challenges, discover your strengths, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and resilience. Your well-being is my priority, and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am available on most evenings and weekends for sessions. Call to set up a consultation.
(747) 207-3456 View (747) 207-3456
Photo of Maureen Williams, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maureen Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
Hello! Thank you for taking the first step towards change, growth and healing. I am here to help you in overcoming life’s challenges that are impacting your emotional well-being, your relationships, and your day to day functioning. As an experienced therapist, I am here to support you in identifying the tools and resources you already possess as well as introducing new coping skills to manage a variety of feelings and emotions that are impacting your ability to cope. I believe that everyone has the ability to heal and grow and I work collaboratively with you in your journey to well-being.
Hello! Thank you for taking the first step towards change, growth and healing. I am here to help you in overcoming life’s challenges that are impacting your emotional well-being, your relationships, and your day to day functioning. As an experienced therapist, I am here to support you in identifying the tools and resources you already possess as well as introducing new coping skills to manage a variety of feelings and emotions that are impacting your ability to cope. I believe that everyone has the ability to heal and grow and I work collaboratively with you in your journey to well-being.
(424) 363-4855 View (424) 363-4855
Photo of Rachel Bar, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Bar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is about exploring transitions and losses. A loss of a relationship, a job, a lifestyle, a home, a friendship, or the loss of a dream or expectation. We dismiss some losses, not realizing their impact on our day to day life. We may suffer from anxiety or depression without understanding why they are present. Other losses, however, can be so traumatic that we lose our ability to heal from them. Moreover, we find ourselves repeating the same mistakes, not being able to transform ourselves and change our behavior, even when we realize that our reactions are unhelpful and self-destructive. We wonder whether life will be better.
Therapy is about exploring transitions and losses. A loss of a relationship, a job, a lifestyle, a home, a friendship, or the loss of a dream or expectation. We dismiss some losses, not realizing their impact on our day to day life. We may suffer from anxiety or depression without understanding why they are present. Other losses, however, can be so traumatic that we lose our ability to heal from them. Moreover, we find ourselves repeating the same mistakes, not being able to transform ourselves and change our behavior, even when we realize that our reactions are unhelpful and self-destructive. We wonder whether life will be better.
(818) 946-0229 View (818) 946-0229
Photo of Dinusha de Silva- Carrasco, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dinusha de Silva- Carrasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
Are you feeling stuck in a loop of negativity or overwhelmed by stress and anxiety? Juggling family issues, career pressures, or the need to be “perfect” can be exhausting. You don’t have to go through this alone—I'm here to help. Together, we can untangle those feelings, heal from the past, quiet that nagging inner critic, and let go of perfectionism. My approach is all about you; we’ll create a safe space where we can work together to build your confidence and resilience.
Are you feeling stuck in a loop of negativity or overwhelmed by stress and anxiety? Juggling family issues, career pressures, or the need to be “perfect” can be exhausting. You don’t have to go through this alone—I'm here to help. Together, we can untangle those feelings, heal from the past, quiet that nagging inner critic, and let go of perfectionism. My approach is all about you; we’ll create a safe space where we can work together to build your confidence and resilience.
(747) 350-0203 View (747) 350-0203
Photo of Mollie Lyddane, PsyD, MA, Psychologist
Mollie Lyddane
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I practice a variety of different therapeutic styles designed to best address your own particular needs. Genuineness, empathy, and warmth serve as foundational elements of my way of relating. I place emphasis on facilitating an environment where you can feel safe to investigate life experiences in greater depth, identify and question deeply held beliefs that have been influencing your life, connect to and express emotions and bodily sensations as they arise in the context of our discovery process, and ultimately move towards developing a greater sense of strength, wholeness, and openness within yourself as you move forward.
I practice a variety of different therapeutic styles designed to best address your own particular needs. Genuineness, empathy, and warmth serve as foundational elements of my way of relating. I place emphasis on facilitating an environment where you can feel safe to investigate life experiences in greater depth, identify and question deeply held beliefs that have been influencing your life, connect to and express emotions and bodily sensations as they arise in the context of our discovery process, and ultimately move towards developing a greater sense of strength, wholeness, and openness within yourself as you move forward.
(213) 340-0847 View (213) 340-0847
Photo of Dorsa Salehani, PhD, Psychologist
Dorsa Salehani
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Dr. Dorsa is a Clinical psychologist in private practice in West Los Angeles. She is a workshop leader who speaks on complex emotional issues. Her specialty is getting people out of the ruts in which they have been intractably stuck.Her combined experiences in Hospital and psychotherapy settings have given her a unique perspective for the daily difficulties people go through, when juggling work, social life, health conditions, and family dynamics.
Dr. Dorsa is a Clinical psychologist in private practice in West Los Angeles. She is a workshop leader who speaks on complex emotional issues. Her specialty is getting people out of the ruts in which they have been intractably stuck.Her combined experiences in Hospital and psychotherapy settings have given her a unique perspective for the daily difficulties people go through, when juggling work, social life, health conditions, and family dynamics.
(310) 954-9045 View (310) 954-9045
Photo of Sabrina Garson - Sabrina Garson, LCSW, PPSC, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrina Garson, LCSW, PPSC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
I take an active approach in assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families improve the quality of their lives by fostering and promoting emotional growth, empowerment, healthy relationships and a positive self-image. We all experience difficult times in our lives; I am here to be a support so that you do not have to endure the process alone. I will assist you in learning and implementing effective ways to manage the challenges life presents to you. Together, we will work towards enhancing the quality of your life, your relationships, and your self-esteem.
I take an active approach in assisting children, adolescents, adults, and families improve the quality of their lives by fostering and promoting emotional growth, empowerment, healthy relationships and a positive self-image. We all experience difficult times in our lives; I am here to be a support so that you do not have to endure the process alone. I will assist you in learning and implementing effective ways to manage the challenges life presents to you. Together, we will work towards enhancing the quality of your life, your relationships, and your self-esteem.
(818) 293-1748 View (818) 293-1748
Photo of Mandie M Pitrel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandie M Pitrel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
An act of transformation begins with the acknowledgement that you have begun to "outgrow" your current self and present circumstances. Change and transition can be daunting. But the transformation to your best self is profound, and typically life altering. Whether the transition you are facing is a shift in relationship (divorce, loss of a friend/family member, new parenting, or "empty nest" parenting), a job/career change, college entry, or simply growing up from an adolescent to an adult, I am here to encourage and support, as you navigate your challenges.
An act of transformation begins with the acknowledgement that you have begun to "outgrow" your current self and present circumstances. Change and transition can be daunting. But the transformation to your best self is profound, and typically life altering. Whether the transition you are facing is a shift in relationship (divorce, loss of a friend/family member, new parenting, or "empty nest" parenting), a job/career change, college entry, or simply growing up from an adolescent to an adult, I am here to encourage and support, as you navigate your challenges.
(310) 945-2780 View (310) 945-2780
Photo of Paula Miley, DSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula Miley
Marriage & Family Therapist, DSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316
Waitlist for new clients
I proudly identify as a gender-fluid, mixed-race member of the LGBTQ+ community with a specialty in Race-based Stress/Trauma, Gender, and LGBTQ+ Affirmative therapy. My work is rooted in liberation theory that challenges the systems of oppression and anti-blackness that harm us individually and collectively. In addition to my work with bodies of culture, we may work together to address many of the challenges folks in the LGBTQ+ community face, such as coming out, gender exploration/expansion, social & medical transitions, internalized shame/oppression, body dysphoria and addressing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, PTSD.
I proudly identify as a gender-fluid, mixed-race member of the LGBTQ+ community with a specialty in Race-based Stress/Trauma, Gender, and LGBTQ+ Affirmative therapy. My work is rooted in liberation theory that challenges the systems of oppression and anti-blackness that harm us individually and collectively. In addition to my work with bodies of culture, we may work together to address many of the challenges folks in the LGBTQ+ community face, such as coming out, gender exploration/expansion, social & medical transitions, internalized shame/oppression, body dysphoria and addressing symptoms related to depression, anxiety, PTSD.
(747) 239-5295 View (747) 239-5295
1
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.