Adoption Therapists in Highland Park, CA

Photo of Myriam D Savage - Myriam Savage, PhD., SoCal Drama Therapy Center, PhD, MA, RDT, BCT
Myriam Savage, PhD., SoCal Drama Therapy Center
PhD, MA, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I am a narrative-trained drama therapist who is person-centered in approach. I facilitate individuals, families, and groups in corporate or educational settings. We will work together to re-author problem saturated life narratives as you explore expressive therapies in sessions as a means toward an embodied, cognitive, safe, creative experience. Restoring the whole person is the goal. My expertise has been on self-identity, foster care, adoption, rehab, adolescence, anxiety, trauma, multiculturalism & social skills. Talk, discovery, and recovery through rapport from a drama therapy and a positive psychology foundation nurture you.
I am a narrative-trained drama therapist who is person-centered in approach. I facilitate individuals, families, and groups in corporate or educational settings. We will work together to re-author problem saturated life narratives as you explore expressive therapies in sessions as a means toward an embodied, cognitive, safe, creative experience. Restoring the whole person is the goal. My expertise has been on self-identity, foster care, adoption, rehab, adolescence, anxiety, trauma, multiculturalism & social skills. Talk, discovery, and recovery through rapport from a drama therapy and a positive psychology foundation nurture you.
(323) 924-3217 View (323) 924-3217
Photo of Kelly Muhonen, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Muhonen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Highland Park, CA 90042
Areas of focus: trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, loss and grief, difficulties with emotions, shame and low self-worth, spiritual growth and struggles, parenting, adoption & foster care, and family dynamics.
So much can get in the way of our ability to receive and give love in healthy relationships. I enjoy working with people who are seeking healing from past wounds so that they can love themselves and others. I help people develop self-confidence and self-awareness that promotes creativity and deeper connectedness. If you’ve experienced trauma or if you struggle with negative beliefs about yourself, EMDR may be a helpful resource and is a specialty of mine. I am also certified as a Safe and Sound Protocol provider, which helps people experience a felt sense of safety and calm.
Areas of focus: trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, loss and grief, difficulties with emotions, shame and low self-worth, spiritual growth and struggles, parenting, adoption & foster care, and family dynamics.
So much can get in the way of our ability to receive and give love in healthy relationships. I enjoy working with people who are seeking healing from past wounds so that they can love themselves and others. I help people develop self-confidence and self-awareness that promotes creativity and deeper connectedness. If you’ve experienced trauma or if you struggle with negative beliefs about yourself, EMDR may be a helpful resource and is a specialty of mine. I am also certified as a Safe and Sound Protocol provider, which helps people experience a felt sense of safety and calm.
(626) 427-3645 View (626) 427-3645
Photo of Amy Salgado, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Salgado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042  (Online Only)
Your story deeply matters to me. I provide relational, integrative, and sex-positive therapy to queer and BIPOC clients. My clients are looking to make their minds and bodies a safe home and are often the first in their families to have the courage to disrupt limiting beliefs and cycles. They seek to challenge expectations as they dare to redefine themselves wholeheartedly. Together, we will make space to explore the impact of generational and personal traumas, navigate the complexities and beauty of intersecting identities, and create meaningful, lasting, and accessible healing practices. Let's connect!
Your story deeply matters to me. I provide relational, integrative, and sex-positive therapy to queer and BIPOC clients. My clients are looking to make their minds and bodies a safe home and are often the first in their families to have the courage to disrupt limiting beliefs and cycles. They seek to challenge expectations as they dare to redefine themselves wholeheartedly. Together, we will make space to explore the impact of generational and personal traumas, navigate the complexities and beauty of intersecting identities, and create meaningful, lasting, and accessible healing practices. Let's connect!
(323) 645-1443 View (323) 645-1443
Photo of S C (Stacy-Colleen) Nameth, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, SEP, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
S C (Stacy-Colleen) Nameth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, SEP, RYT
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042
If you've become lost amongst obstacles on your journey, I'd like to help guide you to more happiness by offering suggestions, uncovering unwanted patterns, and leading you from the past to the present in order to heal and evolve, enhancing your happiness. Through changes in perceptions/attitudes and being willing to see situations with a new pair of glasses, you can reach your goals and evolve. My clients report that they enjoy my down-to-earth attitude and humor and my use of Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, TRM, meditation and yoga to treat mind-body symptoms. I work best with clients who are motivated to gain self-awareness and see patterns that are no longer serving them. I give homework between sessions in order to keep the continuity of healing working consistently. I feel very blessed to be working in a field that serves people who are finding their best selves and evolving into the people they want to be.
If you've become lost amongst obstacles on your journey, I'd like to help guide you to more happiness by offering suggestions, uncovering unwanted patterns, and leading you from the past to the present in order to heal and evolve, enhancing your happiness. Through changes in perceptions/attitudes and being willing to see situations with a new pair of glasses, you can reach your goals and evolve. My clients report that they enjoy my down-to-earth attitude and humor and my use of Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, TRM, meditation and yoga to treat mind-body symptoms. I work best with clients who are motivated to gain self-awareness and see patterns that are no longer serving them. I give homework between sessions in order to keep the continuity of healing working consistently. I feel very blessed to be working in a field that serves people who are finding their best selves and evolving into the people they want to be.
(323) 905-2256 View (323) 905-2256
Photo of Margaret (Meg) J. Bezucha, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margaret (Meg) J. Bezucha
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042
Are you concerned about a child or adolescent that is struggling? Are they shutting down and sad? Worried or mad? Are they having trouble functioning at school or with friends? How about at home and with their family? Has something in their life changed? Maybe they need a little more support at this particular time... Therapy can help. I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families.
Are you concerned about a child or adolescent that is struggling? Are they shutting down and sad? Worried or mad? Are they having trouble functioning at school or with friends? How about at home and with their family? Has something in their life changed? Maybe they need a little more support at this particular time... Therapy can help. I work with individuals of all ages, couples, and families.
(213) 481-5178 View (213) 481-5178
Photo of Eve Lorraine Sturges, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eve Lorraine Sturges
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042
Waitlist for new clients
Whether your struggle is deeply rooted or a temporary challenge, my role as a therapist is to create a safe space for exploring solutions and finding peace. It is possible to create a life you love with the life you have; let me help you. I also have personal and professional experience with the NPE (non-parent expected, or non paternal event) experience and am extremely comfortable, confident, and empathetic while treating those who have had shocking DNA discoveries. EMAIL IS BEST WAY TO INITIATE COMMUNICATION WITH ME! I am not taking on couples/marriage counseling at this time.
Whether your struggle is deeply rooted or a temporary challenge, my role as a therapist is to create a safe space for exploring solutions and finding peace. It is possible to create a life you love with the life you have; let me help you. I also have personal and professional experience with the NPE (non-parent expected, or non paternal event) experience and am extremely comfortable, confident, and empathetic while treating those who have had shocking DNA discoveries. EMAIL IS BEST WAY TO INITIATE COMMUNICATION WITH ME! I am not taking on couples/marriage counseling at this time.
(213) 693-3918 View (213) 693-3918
Photo of Becca Waterhouse, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becca Waterhouse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I strongly believe in the healing power of a safe therapeutic space and human connection to build resilience and foster a more fulfilling life. I strive to co-create a safe space that is warm, collaborative, and empathic so that, together, we can process and integrate past or current traumatic or disruptive experiences, and explore questions of identity, self-concept, and interpersonal relationships. My client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach lends itself to meeting my clients where they are at and walking alongside you as you uncover the strengths and tools within to face life’s challenges.
I strongly believe in the healing power of a safe therapeutic space and human connection to build resilience and foster a more fulfilling life. I strive to co-create a safe space that is warm, collaborative, and empathic so that, together, we can process and integrate past or current traumatic or disruptive experiences, and explore questions of identity, self-concept, and interpersonal relationships. My client-centered, trauma-informed, and integrative approach lends itself to meeting my clients where they are at and walking alongside you as you uncover the strengths and tools within to face life’s challenges.
(323) 693-8878 View (323) 693-8878
Photo of Norma Covarrubias, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Norma Covarrubias
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042  (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where you can discover new perspectives and strategies to overcome life's challenges. As a trauma-informed, first-generation therapist, let me offer support you on your journey of self-discovery. My main goal is to help you work through intergenerational trauma and empower you to develop resilience and coping strategies for healing. Talk therapy can be the outlet you need to release and heal. I can offer you a safe space to break free from generational patterns. Today is the perfect day to start creating positive changes in your life!
Welcome to a space where you can discover new perspectives and strategies to overcome life's challenges. As a trauma-informed, first-generation therapist, let me offer support you on your journey of self-discovery. My main goal is to help you work through intergenerational trauma and empower you to develop resilience and coping strategies for healing. Talk therapy can be the outlet you need to release and heal. I can offer you a safe space to break free from generational patterns. Today is the perfect day to start creating positive changes in your life!
(626) 238-0342 View (626) 238-0342
Photo of Luz Elena Flores, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luz Elena Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042
Self development is a strength and it is something we have to constantly dedicate ourselves to do. However, It is not easy to deal with all of the issues that we encounter as being human. Allow me to guide you and help bring forth your unique strengths of resilience. I want to hear about what's important to you and what your needs are. I have worked with clients on various issues such as separation, trauma, depression, anxiety, family issues, relationship issues, and existential crises. I am currently not accepting clients; I can connect you with my colleagues trained in treating trauma, crisis, and couples.
Self development is a strength and it is something we have to constantly dedicate ourselves to do. However, It is not easy to deal with all of the issues that we encounter as being human. Allow me to guide you and help bring forth your unique strengths of resilience. I want to hear about what's important to you and what your needs are. I have worked with clients on various issues such as separation, trauma, depression, anxiety, family issues, relationship issues, and existential crises. I am currently not accepting clients; I can connect you with my colleagues trained in treating trauma, crisis, and couples.
(213) 370-1798 View (213) 370-1798
Photo of Scott Whelan, MA, AMFT, MT-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Scott Whelan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, MT-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042
It is in our nature to live our lives through stories. Often our stories can become overshadowed by the effects of problems in our lives. Trauma, anxiety, depression and difficult life transitions may have taken you away from what you value most, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, stuck or disconnected. My goal is to honor all parts of your story, providing a compassionate space for you to heal and re-claim your own agency in your life.
It is in our nature to live our lives through stories. Often our stories can become overshadowed by the effects of problems in our lives. Trauma, anxiety, depression and difficult life transitions may have taken you away from what you value most, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, stuck or disconnected. My goal is to honor all parts of your story, providing a compassionate space for you to heal and re-claim your own agency in your life.
(323) 433-9851 View (323) 433-9851
Photo of Luz Flores - Self Care Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist
Self Care Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042
We meet you where you're at and build on your resilience. We welcome you and invite you to start on your self care. We value diversity and acceptance; we work with all faiths, LBGTQ+, and all backgrounds.
We meet you where you're at and build on your resilience. We welcome you and invite you to start on your self care. We value diversity and acceptance; we work with all faiths, LBGTQ+, and all backgrounds.
(323) 576-4491 View (323) 576-4491
Photo of Helen J. Kim, LMFT, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Helen J. Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I believe the journey to healing starts with being fully known and accepted for who we are. I create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to feel invited, understood, and cared for. I help you increase your awareness and make connections to what has shaped you in the past, who you are today, and who you strive to be. My therapeutic approach is individualized and culturally sensitive, based on what you may need and the unique stories you bring. I am deeply committed to supporting individuals navigating through grief & loss, trauma, relationship challenges, and career exploration.
I believe the journey to healing starts with being fully known and accepted for who we are. I create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to feel invited, understood, and cared for. I help you increase your awareness and make connections to what has shaped you in the past, who you are today, and who you strive to be. My therapeutic approach is individualized and culturally sensitive, based on what you may need and the unique stories you bring. I am deeply committed to supporting individuals navigating through grief & loss, trauma, relationship challenges, and career exploration.
(626) 210-3904 View (626) 210-3904
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Highland Park, CA 90042
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531

More Therapists Nearby

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 Julie Roberts Sanders, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Roberts Sanders
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
Waitlist for new clients
Among the many issues I’ve worked with are family and life transitions; family-of-origin work; loss and grief; anxiety and depression; women’s issues, including fertility, pregnancy and adoption issues; spirituality and faith issues; childhood abuse or neglect and PTSD; premarital and marital therapy.
My goal is to provide a safe and supportive relationship which invites you to honestly explore any issues you are facing. We will discuss current problems, look at any connections to your personal and family history, as well as talk about what is working for you and ways to build on that. My ultimate goal is for positive change in the present, whatever that looks like for you. I encourage the use of outside resources such as workshops, groups, classes, 12-step programs, yoga and mindfulness practices as well as religious involvement as part of the healing process.
Among the many issues I’ve worked with are family and life transitions; family-of-origin work; loss and grief; anxiety and depression; women’s issues, including fertility, pregnancy and adoption issues; spirituality and faith issues; childhood abuse or neglect and PTSD; premarital and marital therapy.
My goal is to provide a safe and supportive relationship which invites you to honestly explore any issues you are facing. We will discuss current problems, look at any connections to your personal and family history, as well as talk about what is working for you and ways to build on that. My ultimate goal is for positive change in the present, whatever that looks like for you. I encourage the use of outside resources such as workshops, groups, classes, 12-step programs, yoga and mindfulness practices as well as religious involvement as part of the healing process.
(626) 361-4747 View (626) 361-4747
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 90041
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 Robyn Joy Park, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robyn Joy Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90041
 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 Becky (Mary Rebecca) Schomaker, MA, LMFT, IFECMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Becky (Mary Rebecca) Schomaker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, IFECMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90065
I work with children of all ages, families, new mothers, and adoption.
I specialize in treating anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship difficulties, and behavioral problems. When overwhelming experiences leave their mark, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. Memories, fears, distress, and anger take over and damage our relationships. Parenting becomes fraught with tension. Children lose control, resulting in tantrums and behavior problems. By understanding the root of your distress, I can help you or your family find new ways to cope.
I work with children of all ages, families, new mothers, and adoption.
I specialize in treating anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship difficulties, and behavioral problems. When overwhelming experiences leave their mark, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. Memories, fears, distress, and anger take over and damage our relationships. Parenting becomes fraught with tension. Children lose control, resulting in tantrums and behavior problems. By understanding the root of your distress, I can help you or your family find new ways to cope.
(510) 867-3483 View (510) 867-3483
Photo of Megan Pitsios, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Pitsios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eagle Rock, CA 90041
I specialize in working with individuals and couples coming into parenthood through postpartum struggles, grief and loss, infertility, foster care and/or adoption, identity issues, or depression and anxiety.
Are you feeling anxious, irritable, or foggy these days? Do you resent your partner or snap at them over little things? The changes that have come with growing a family feel overwhelming, but it’s hard to admit that you aren’t doing ok. Everyone says this is the best time of your life, but you barely recognize yourself. Your body and mind are exhausted, and you feel like you don’t know where to begin. You want to regain balance, focus, and a sense of who you are now beyond just being a parent or trying to become a parent. Let me help you find your way back to you.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples coming into parenthood through postpartum struggles, grief and loss, infertility, foster care and/or adoption, identity issues, or depression and anxiety.
Are you feeling anxious, irritable, or foggy these days? Do you resent your partner or snap at them over little things? The changes that have come with growing a family feel overwhelming, but it’s hard to admit that you aren’t doing ok. Everyone says this is the best time of your life, but you barely recognize yourself. Your body and mind are exhausted, and you feel like you don’t know where to begin. You want to regain balance, focus, and a sense of who you are now beyond just being a parent or trying to become a parent. Let me help you find your way back to you.
(626) 427-6512 View (626) 427-6512
Photo of Lisa C Blum, PsyD, Psychologist
Lisa C Blum
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
My specialties include: Emotionally Focused Therapy for healthy relationships, couples, parent-child, and family; Coping with depression and anxiety; Healthy adjustment to divorce & blended families; Attachment & growth in adoption; Resolving big identity questions (sexual orientation, culture, race & ethnicity, family of origin).
For 25+ years I've specialized in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families to help them live with more confidence, connection, and aliveness. I bring extensive experience in therapy, supervision, consulting, and research in the areas of child, teen, & family life, social and emotional development, sexuality, and building solid and nurturing relationships. I work with clients in a talk therapy approach that is warm, interactive, and active, but that is also flexible in including support for new behaviors, creative expression, and practical help in developing new skills for living.
My specialties include: Emotionally Focused Therapy for healthy relationships, couples, parent-child, and family; Coping with depression and anxiety; Healthy adjustment to divorce & blended families; Attachment & growth in adoption; Resolving big identity questions (sexual orientation, culture, race & ethnicity, family of origin).
For 25+ years I've specialized in working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families to help them live with more confidence, connection, and aliveness. I bring extensive experience in therapy, supervision, consulting, and research in the areas of child, teen, & family life, social and emotional development, sexuality, and building solid and nurturing relationships. I work with clients in a talk therapy approach that is warm, interactive, and active, but that is also flexible in including support for new behaviors, creative expression, and practical help in developing new skills for living.
(323) 570-4533 View (323) 570-4533

See more therapy options for Highland Park

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.