Adoption Therapists in Kensington, CA
I have worked with adults, couples, adolescents and children for over 18 years. I offer a free telephone consultation as you explore what your needs are in finding a therapist and whether you feel I might be of help to you.
I have worked with adults, couples, adolescents and children for over 18 years. I offer a free telephone consultation as you explore what your needs are in finding a therapist and whether you feel I might be of help to you.
Are you ready for change and personal growth? Would like to explore and experience more fulfilling relationships? People seek therapy for many reasons, often it is when they are confronted by a challenging life circumstance or interested in resolving familiar issues or breaking destructive patterns. Whatever your reason for wanting therapy at this time, chances are you would like to feel happier more of the time.
Are you ready for change and personal growth? Would like to explore and experience more fulfilling relationships? People seek therapy for many reasons, often it is when they are confronted by a challenging life circumstance or interested in resolving familiar issues or breaking destructive patterns. Whatever your reason for wanting therapy at this time, chances are you would like to feel happier more of the time.
Dora Ritzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kensington, CA 94707 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Play is the language of childhood and I speak it fluently. Whatever situation your child is going through, we will face it together. We might be adventurers, exploring the rocky seas of emotion regulation. Perhaps we are princes and princesses trapped in a castle of loneliness, race car drivers going around on the track of ADHD, or warriors battling monsters in the dark. We might even teach a bear to use the potty.
Play is the language of childhood and I speak it fluently. Whatever situation your child is going through, we will face it together. We might be adventurers, exploring the rocky seas of emotion regulation. Perhaps we are princes and princesses trapped in a castle of loneliness, race car drivers going around on the track of ADHD, or warriors battling monsters in the dark. We might even teach a bear to use the potty.
More Therapists Nearby
I also specialize in working with adoption issues.
Many of life's problems and traumas are difficult not just in and of themselves, but because they are isolating, leaving you with the feeling that no one understands or that no one sees your struggles. As a therapist, I think the relationship comes first. The work we do together requires warmth, comfort, trust and "goodness of fit" between us. I believe the relationship is both the safe and warm point of departure for your exploration and the soft landing place.
I also specialize in working with adoption issues.
Many of life's problems and traumas are difficult not just in and of themselves, but because they are isolating, leaving you with the feeling that no one understands or that no one sees your struggles. As a therapist, I think the relationship comes first. The work we do together requires warmth, comfort, trust and "goodness of fit" between us. I believe the relationship is both the safe and warm point of departure for your exploration and the soft landing place.
I have special knowledge of gender identity issues, adoption and psychoanalysis.
Whether you are just going through a particularly hard time, or have ongoing concerns with work, relationships, identity, or regulating your behavior or emotions, it's just a fact that we all need help sometimes. I've been assisting people with moderate to very serious concerns for over twenty-five years. I love working with a sense of common humanity in order to help my clients better manage their day-to-day lives, address struggles and limitations, as well as experience deeper integration of a sense of Self, relationships and life choices.
I have special knowledge of gender identity issues, adoption and psychoanalysis.
Whether you are just going through a particularly hard time, or have ongoing concerns with work, relationships, identity, or regulating your behavior or emotions, it's just a fact that we all need help sometimes. I've been assisting people with moderate to very serious concerns for over twenty-five years. I love working with a sense of common humanity in order to help my clients better manage their day-to-day lives, address struggles and limitations, as well as experience deeper integration of a sense of Self, relationships and life choices.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish-speaking) licensed clinical psychologist who provides psychotherapy services to adults, children, adolescents families. I support clients in fostering resilience and in building more meaningful, connected relationships. In therapy, I take a supportive, curious, nonjudgemental stance. My clients struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, loss, adoption, psychological trauma, childhood development, parenting, and everyday stressors.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish-speaking) licensed clinical psychologist who provides psychotherapy services to adults, children, adolescents families. I support clients in fostering resilience and in building more meaningful, connected relationships. In therapy, I take a supportive, curious, nonjudgemental stance. My clients struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, loss, adoption, psychological trauma, childhood development, parenting, and everyday stressors.
Jacob Kajiwara
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94708 (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping my clients explore the intersections of adoption, racial/ethnic identity, childhood trauma, confidence, and major life transitions. Throughout life, we continually revisit and re-negotiate our understanding of the experiences that have shaped us. It’s especially hard if you’ve been impacted by unique circumstances such as international/domestic adoption, multi-cultural family, or even just the experience of being a minority in America. I provide a warm and safe space that allows clients to explore their authentic self.
I am passionate about helping my clients explore the intersections of adoption, racial/ethnic identity, childhood trauma, confidence, and major life transitions. Throughout life, we continually revisit and re-negotiate our understanding of the experiences that have shaped us. It’s especially hard if you’ve been impacted by unique circumstances such as international/domestic adoption, multi-cultural family, or even just the experience of being a minority in America. I provide a warm and safe space that allows clients to explore their authentic self.
Are you a lesbian couple in the process of deciding to become parents? Are you an individual seeking support while you and your partner are thinking about beginning a family? There are unique decisions that you may be currently facing such as, pregnancy or adoption, which partner will become pregnant, and how will both partners feel involved as parents. It is important for you to have a safe space to explore these questions. There are feelings that accompany the decisions that you are making, and partners may feel differently. This sometimes challenges the connection between you.
Are you a lesbian couple in the process of deciding to become parents? Are you an individual seeking support while you and your partner are thinking about beginning a family? There are unique decisions that you may be currently facing such as, pregnancy or adoption, which partner will become pregnant, and how will both partners feel involved as parents. It is important for you to have a safe space to explore these questions. There are feelings that accompany the decisions that you are making, and partners may feel differently. This sometimes challenges the connection between you.
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94701
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre- adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre- adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
Vicki Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705 (Online Only)
I help navigate life transitions, pregnancy, adoption, parenting, ADHD, autism, loss, divorce, health-related challenges, retirement & aging.
Welcome! I specialize in relationships, work and parenting. I’m warm, creative, supportive & smart. I like to help people in life transitions. These are hard times. If you’re feeling alone, overwhelmed, upset or worried about the future, let me help. We collaborate to address the hard things in your life, discover your unique abilities & strengths & create a path toward your dreams and goals. I am a licensed psychotherapist with 30 + years’ experience working with people from age 2 to 100. I create space where you can feel comfortable expressing feelings & exploring difficult issues. We transform you’re goals into do-able steps.
I help navigate life transitions, pregnancy, adoption, parenting, ADHD, autism, loss, divorce, health-related challenges, retirement & aging.
Welcome! I specialize in relationships, work and parenting. I’m warm, creative, supportive & smart. I like to help people in life transitions. These are hard times. If you’re feeling alone, overwhelmed, upset or worried about the future, let me help. We collaborate to address the hard things in your life, discover your unique abilities & strengths & create a path toward your dreams and goals. I am a licensed psychotherapist with 30 + years’ experience working with people from age 2 to 100. I create space where you can feel comfortable expressing feelings & exploring difficult issues. We transform you’re goals into do-able steps.
I work with individuals and couples to help reduce struggles and find ways to live more fulfilling, gratifying lives. Our relationship is the context in which we work to find where you're stuck, what's getting in your way, and ways to do things differently. My specialty areas include grief and loss, adoption, ADHD, race/class issues, work/life balance, LGBTQ issues, and divorce. I help people manage anxiety and mood problems. I help couples with concerns related to parenting, managing conflict, and addressing needs and expectations. I see communication as the grease that keeps relationships running smoothly, and I help facilitate good communication.
I work with individuals and couples to help reduce struggles and find ways to live more fulfilling, gratifying lives. Our relationship is the context in which we work to find where you're stuck, what's getting in your way, and ways to do things differently. My specialty areas include grief and loss, adoption, ADHD, race/class issues, work/life balance, LGBTQ issues, and divorce. I help people manage anxiety and mood problems. I help couples with concerns related to parenting, managing conflict, and addressing needs and expectations. I see communication as the grease that keeps relationships running smoothly, and I help facilitate good communication.
PTSD, grief and loss, medical trauma, parenting, adoption, LGBTQ issues.
Do you feel trapped by your past and anxious about your future, unable to live in the present? This malaise of modern living is often a sign of past trauma. I can help you uncover and release the experiences that keep you from living a full and zestful life. My primary focus is women and parents, particularly those with a history of trauma. We’ll explore the feelings that arise in your body, and notice their links to your thoughts and behaviors. I’ll empower you to choose a more positive narrative, to look at your life through a different lens.
PTSD, grief and loss, medical trauma, parenting, adoption, LGBTQ issues.
Do you feel trapped by your past and anxious about your future, unable to live in the present? This malaise of modern living is often a sign of past trauma. I can help you uncover and release the experiences that keep you from living a full and zestful life. My primary focus is women and parents, particularly those with a history of trauma. We’ll explore the feelings that arise in your body, and notice their links to your thoughts and behaviors. I’ll empower you to choose a more positive narrative, to look at your life through a different lens.
Please inquire about child/adult psychological testing (diagnostic clarification, psychoeducational, school applications, ADHD, ASD, PTSD, and international adoption).
My priority is to help you develop insight, confidence, and connection. With an approach that is respectful, warm, and direct, I will help you better understand yourself and your current circumstances. Together, we will examine intergenerational patterns, unconscious dynamics, and how you developed your innermost beliefs. With extensive training in treating trauma, I will help you better understand the ways difficult and even tragic experiences influence your relationships, parenting, and self-worth. My approach is rooted in attachment theory, child development, object relations, and trauma research.
Please inquire about child/adult psychological testing (diagnostic clarification, psychoeducational, school applications, ADHD, ASD, PTSD, and international adoption).
My priority is to help you develop insight, confidence, and connection. With an approach that is respectful, warm, and direct, I will help you better understand yourself and your current circumstances. Together, we will examine intergenerational patterns, unconscious dynamics, and how you developed your innermost beliefs. With extensive training in treating trauma, I will help you better understand the ways difficult and even tragic experiences influence your relationships, parenting, and self-worth. My approach is rooted in attachment theory, child development, object relations, and trauma research.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, on facilitating communication, conflict resolution, and often healing old wounds from childhood that cause difficulties in present relationships. I also work with children and their families on parenting issues. I work with couples having infertility issues and adoption.
I work with individuals, couples, and families, on facilitating communication, conflict resolution, and often healing old wounds from childhood that cause difficulties in present relationships. I also work with children and their families on parenting issues. I work with couples having infertility issues and adoption.
) loss of a family member, adoption, foster care, or life transitions such as the birth of a new sibling.
Are you a parent looking for support to help navigate through the big emotions of your young child, or looking to break generational parental trauma? I guide parents and families to decreasing disruptive behaviors in young children by increasing a positive attachment and communication flow between the family system. By utilizing therapy at young ages, parents can help create the foundation for a more supported parenting experience that allows for a better understanding for their children.
) loss of a family member, adoption, foster care, or life transitions such as the birth of a new sibling.
Are you a parent looking for support to help navigate through the big emotions of your young child, or looking to break generational parental trauma? I guide parents and families to decreasing disruptive behaviors in young children by increasing a positive attachment and communication flow between the family system. By utilizing therapy at young ages, parents can help create the foundation for a more supported parenting experience that allows for a better understanding for their children.
I am a clinical and developmental psychologist with over 35 years experience. I currently have limited availability for 1) caregivers seeking parenting support; 2) people anticipating or during pregnancy, adoption, fostering or otherwise transitioning to parenthood and early parenting; and, 3) for consultation and supervision for professionals and students.
I am a clinical and developmental psychologist with over 35 years experience. I currently have limited availability for 1) caregivers seeking parenting support; 2) people anticipating or during pregnancy, adoption, fostering or otherwise transitioning to parenthood and early parenting; and, 3) for consultation and supervision for professionals and students.
My work with families includes transitions, trauma, parenting, divorce and adoption.
Virtual sessions ONLY. Taking this first step of looking for a therapist might feel difficult and overwhelming, yet it is crucial in order to begin to feel better. Fostering your healing will come from our ability to work together and our capacity for real dialogue on how effective our work is. I will strive to both support and challenge you as we strengthen your capacity for mindfulness, insight and greater joy in your life. We will collaborate to discover ways in which you are already resilient against challenges while encouraging you to tap into your capacity for growth and change.
My work with families includes transitions, trauma, parenting, divorce and adoption.
Virtual sessions ONLY. Taking this first step of looking for a therapist might feel difficult and overwhelming, yet it is crucial in order to begin to feel better. Fostering your healing will come from our ability to work together and our capacity for real dialogue on how effective our work is. I will strive to both support and challenge you as we strengthen your capacity for mindfulness, insight and greater joy in your life. We will collaborate to discover ways in which you are already resilient against challenges while encouraging you to tap into your capacity for growth and change.
Psychological Testing & Evaluations - Dr. Dean
Psychologist, PsyD, QME, Author
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre- adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
I'm Dr. Dean Leav, licensed psychologist and qualified medical evaluator (QME). I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I provide Evaluation Services, including (and not limited to): diagnostics (ADHD, Autism, Learning Dis.), cognitive/neuropsychological evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME), immigration-related evaluations, pre- adoption psychological evaluations, parenting/bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, and legal/forensics/criminal evaluations. These evaluations may be used to meet eligibility for certain services or accommodations.
Areas I specialize in: Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, parenting support, family relationships and communication, trauma/abuse, loss/grief, attachment, interpersonal difficulties, adoption and divorce and self-growth.
I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. My style in therapy is a mix of person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic theories. With children I utilize a variety of expressive therapies including play, art, narrative, sand tray and bibliotherapy. In working with children, adolescents and adults, I use a cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach.
Areas I specialize in: Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, parenting support, family relationships and communication, trauma/abuse, loss/grief, attachment, interpersonal difficulties, adoption and divorce and self-growth.
I believe that understanding and compassion are vital for building trust, mutual respect, and openness, all of which are essential in forming a therapeutic relationship that can encourage change. My style in therapy is a mix of person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, and psychodynamic theories. With children I utilize a variety of expressive therapies including play, art, narrative, sand tray and bibliotherapy. In working with children, adolescents and adults, I use a cognitive behavioral therapeutic approach.
See more therapy options for Kensington
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Kensington
See More Adoption TherapistsAdoption 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.