Adoption Therapists in Newhall, CA

Photo of Relinda Vanderwal Fisher, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Relinda Vanderwal Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newhall, CA 91321  (Online Only)
The purpose of my practice is to provide a safe space, a sanctuary of sorts, where I guide you to discover insights and strengths about yourself within the context of your relationships. Your context might include such things profound adversity, compound losses, grief, caregiving for those with chronic health issues, parenting, life transitions, aging, caring for aging loved ones and navigating these unique family and relational dynamics, all within a range of mental health concerns. There is much to be gained when we are intent on building healthier and stronger relationships with our loved ones, the treasures of our lives.
The purpose of my practice is to provide a safe space, a sanctuary of sorts, where I guide you to discover insights and strengths about yourself within the context of your relationships. Your context might include such things profound adversity, compound losses, grief, caregiving for those with chronic health issues, parenting, life transitions, aging, caring for aging loved ones and navigating these unique family and relational dynamics, all within a range of mental health concerns. There is much to be gained when we are intent on building healthier and stronger relationships with our loved ones, the treasures of our lives.
(661) 690-2006 View (661) 690-2006
Photo of Caroline Marrujo Crisol, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caroline Marrujo Crisol
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newhall, CA 91321
Are you considering therapy? I understand that the thought of therapy and making the first call to speak to a therapist can be scary or even uncomfortable. I strive to make your initial therapy experience an enjoyable and comfortable experience. During this initial appointment I will be able to answer any questions you may have about the therapeutic process. As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to take control of the present and make the necessary changes.
Are you considering therapy? I understand that the thought of therapy and making the first call to speak to a therapist can be scary or even uncomfortable. I strive to make your initial therapy experience an enjoyable and comfortable experience. During this initial appointment I will be able to answer any questions you may have about the therapeutic process. As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to take control of the present and make the necessary changes.
(818) 639-8423 View (818) 639-8423
Photo of Julie Laraway, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Laraway
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newhall, CA 91321
Are you feeling hopeless, out of options, unable to get over the past, or anxious? As your therapist, I will offer compassion, empathy, understanding and direction as you navigate the challenges you are currently facing. I tailor our time to best meet your needs and YOUR goals. In our work together I aim to help you *understand what it is that you desire/need, *understand what potentially stands in the way, *identify patterns that may have contributed to you feeling stuck, and help you *learn and use effective strategies for achieving your goals. Don't wait any longer!
Are you feeling hopeless, out of options, unable to get over the past, or anxious? As your therapist, I will offer compassion, empathy, understanding and direction as you navigate the challenges you are currently facing. I tailor our time to best meet your needs and YOUR goals. In our work together I aim to help you *understand what it is that you desire/need, *understand what potentially stands in the way, *identify patterns that may have contributed to you feeling stuck, and help you *learn and use effective strategies for achieving your goals. Don't wait any longer!
(661) 731-3919 View (661) 731-3919
Photo of Reginald L. Veurink, MDiv, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Reginald L. Veurink
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newhall, CA 91321
I'm a licensed psychologist and a marriage therapist. I have a specialty practice in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I hold a diplomate from the American Board of Medical Psychotherapists and I'm registered with the National Register of Health Service Psychologists. All this fades into the background when I am with my patients. What matters is understanding and connecting with the person in front of me. I treat adults and adolescents who are mature enough to participate in talk therapy. My work is primarily with individuals and marital couples, but I also work with whole family systems when it is appropriate.
I'm a licensed psychologist and a marriage therapist. I have a specialty practice in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I hold a diplomate from the American Board of Medical Psychotherapists and I'm registered with the National Register of Health Service Psychologists. All this fades into the background when I am with my patients. What matters is understanding and connecting with the person in front of me. I treat adults and adolescents who are mature enough to participate in talk therapy. My work is primarily with individuals and marital couples, but I also work with whole family systems when it is appropriate.
(818) 962-6440 View (818) 962-6440
Photo of Tim Smyth, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Smyth
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Newhall, CA 91321
I have over 35 years of experience in helping people find happiness/satisfaction in the face of many challenges and setbacks. If you are unhappy or in distress, therapy can help you take charge and get back on track. I can help you conquer anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting problems and generally achieve better control over your life. I have a large toolbox full of tips and interventions.
I have over 35 years of experience in helping people find happiness/satisfaction in the face of many challenges and setbacks. If you are unhappy or in distress, therapy can help you take charge and get back on track. I can help you conquer anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting problems and generally achieve better control over your life. I have a large toolbox full of tips and interventions.
(818) 672-1442 View (818) 672-1442
Photo of Samantha Markman - Santa Clarita Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Santa Clarita Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newhall, CA 91321
Establishing a trusting relationship and working collaboratively with our clients is our primary goal. My name is Samantha Markman and I have hand selected a team of excellent therapists with various specialties. We strive to create a therapeutic space of comfort and support, as we work with you to explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. We work with a wide range of clients that are dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, postpartum issues, addictive behaviors, LGBT issues, eating disorders, codependency, grief and loss, life transitions, and various types of trauma.
Establishing a trusting relationship and working collaboratively with our clients is our primary goal. My name is Samantha Markman and I have hand selected a team of excellent therapists with various specialties. We strive to create a therapeutic space of comfort and support, as we work with you to explore deep personal issues and experiment with new ways of thinking. We work with a wide range of clients that are dealing with various issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, postpartum issues, addictive behaviors, LGBT issues, eating disorders, codependency, grief and loss, life transitions, and various types of trauma.
(661) 441-3124 View (661) 441-3124

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Melissa Jinariu With Therapy So-Cal, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Dr. Melissa Jinariu With Therapy So-Cal
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
We offer elite treatment for children, adolescents, and adults, as well as adoption-competent and spiritually-integrated care.
I've spent the last 25 years helping children, adolescents, and adults struggling with TRAUMA, worries, sadness, problems at school or home, or adjusting to difficult or scary life experiences (divorce, death, accident). If you feel stuck in repeated patterns, triggers, or unwanted memories from your past, we can help! If your child has difficulty managing their big feelings and behaviors, we've got you! We will work with you and/or your child using evidence based treatments like EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, ERP, and PCIT to improve coping and quality of life. Your family's path to healing starts with a call to our practice: Therapy SoCal.
We offer elite treatment for children, adolescents, and adults, as well as adoption-competent and spiritually-integrated care.
I've spent the last 25 years helping children, adolescents, and adults struggling with TRAUMA, worries, sadness, problems at school or home, or adjusting to difficult or scary life experiences (divorce, death, accident). If you feel stuck in repeated patterns, triggers, or unwanted memories from your past, we can help! If your child has difficulty managing their big feelings and behaviors, we've got you! We will work with you and/or your child using evidence based treatments like EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, ERP, and PCIT to improve coping and quality of life. Your family's path to healing starts with a call to our practice: Therapy SoCal.
(661) 690-1228 View (661) 690-1228
Photo of Rachael Parsons Svendsen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachael Parsons Svendsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
I have additional training and experience in treating the following experiences: Adoption, Attachment trauma, Complex PTSD, Religious trauma, Queer trauma, Sexual trauma, Therapist burnout.
Each of us faces unique struggles in our lives and it can be easy to lose hope. Your story may include obstacles such as trauma, abuse, mental health issues, grief, and loss. Together, we can move forward by incorporating resiliency, connection, and growth to your personal and family narrative. Rachael believes anyone can benefit from therapy and is on a mission to spread genuine connection and care in her community and the world. Rachael is certified in TIST, a trauma informed somatic and attachment focused model for trauma stabilization, and is completing certification in Psychedelic Assisted Therapy in 2024.
I have additional training and experience in treating the following experiences: Adoption, Attachment trauma, Complex PTSD, Religious trauma, Queer trauma, Sexual trauma, Therapist burnout.
Each of us faces unique struggles in our lives and it can be easy to lose hope. Your story may include obstacles such as trauma, abuse, mental health issues, grief, and loss. Together, we can move forward by incorporating resiliency, connection, and growth to your personal and family narrative. Rachael believes anyone can benefit from therapy and is on a mission to spread genuine connection and care in her community and the world. Rachael is certified in TIST, a trauma informed somatic and attachment focused model for trauma stabilization, and is completing certification in Psychedelic Assisted Therapy in 2024.
(747) 233-2156 View (747) 233-2156
Photo of Margo DeCuir, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margo DeCuir
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in adoption and attachment trauma and how that can influence our relationships with others & ourselves.
Finding help can be an act of huge mental and emotional effort. The most important part of finding help is finding someone you feel like is safe & gets you. I am a socially justice minded, HAES & LGBT+ affirming therapist and work to sit with your unique experiences. It can be scary to think about talking about things you have been through, the things you have done, & the relationships you have had. I honor what you have been through & the choices you've had to make to get to this point. By co-creating a safe, empathetic environment to grow through what you've been through, we can find ways to construct the life you want for you.
I specialize in adoption and attachment trauma and how that can influence our relationships with others & ourselves.
Finding help can be an act of huge mental and emotional effort. The most important part of finding help is finding someone you feel like is safe & gets you. I am a socially justice minded, HAES & LGBT+ affirming therapist and work to sit with your unique experiences. It can be scary to think about talking about things you have been through, the things you have done, & the relationships you have had. I honor what you have been through & the choices you've had to make to get to this point. By co-creating a safe, empathetic environment to grow through what you've been through, we can find ways to construct the life you want for you.
(661) 669-7599 View (661) 669-7599
Photo of Rocio Villalobos - Serenity Oak, LCSW, Inc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serenity Oak, LCSW, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
My knowledge in therapy comes from years of professional practice in community mental health, medical clinics, family & children's services, and foster & adoption agencies.
I am here to support you in your healing process. LET’S FOCUS ON YOU. I provide a safe space where you can take the time to share your difficulties, hopes and needs. In turn, I will help untangle your thoughts, assist you in discovering more about yourself and guide you in exploring your own solutions. With compassion and understanding, I can help you work through your challenges, support the changes towards your personal growth and celebrate your triumphs.
My knowledge in therapy comes from years of professional practice in community mental health, medical clinics, family & children's services, and foster & adoption agencies.
I am here to support you in your healing process. LET’S FOCUS ON YOU. I provide a safe space where you can take the time to share your difficulties, hopes and needs. In turn, I will help untangle your thoughts, assist you in discovering more about yourself and guide you in exploring your own solutions. With compassion and understanding, I can help you work through your challenges, support the changes towards your personal growth and celebrate your triumphs.
(661) 215-8153 View (661) 215-8153
Photo of Denise Payne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Payne
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(805) 246-7440 View (805) 246-7440
Photo of Peggy Marie Harden-Haig - Peggy Harden-Haig Marriage Family Therapist Inc., MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peggy Harden-Haig Marriage Family Therapist Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91381
I believe in offering my patients a confidental non judgemental approach to psychotherapy in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I can help you with your couples or family problems, your teen and children issues. I also deal with blended family difficulties with my background from an inpatient hospital experience, I am here to offer my specialities in Panic Disorder, Post Trumatic stress disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Depression. When dealing with the disorders listed above I believe in taking an investigated approach of the source of the problem as well as teaching relaxation and positive thinking to help the patient gain control.
I believe in offering my patients a confidental non judgemental approach to psychotherapy in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. I can help you with your couples or family problems, your teen and children issues. I also deal with blended family difficulties with my background from an inpatient hospital experience, I am here to offer my specialities in Panic Disorder, Post Trumatic stress disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Depression. When dealing with the disorders listed above I believe in taking an investigated approach of the source of the problem as well as teaching relaxation and positive thinking to help the patient gain control.
(661) 903-8669 View (661) 903-8669
Photo of Linda Raviv, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Raviv
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Making the decision to call or consult a therapist is a difficult one but may be the best gift you can give yourself. It means you have taken an important step in changing your life. As a practicing psychotherapist I have treated adults, families, teens and children since 1981 and love to help people find their true sense of self and improve their functioning at work and in their relationships. Over the years I have helped many adults, children and teens with academic and behavioral issues, family conflicts, depression, anxiety and chronic pain relief.
Making the decision to call or consult a therapist is a difficult one but may be the best gift you can give yourself. It means you have taken an important step in changing your life. As a practicing psychotherapist I have treated adults, families, teens and children since 1981 and love to help people find their true sense of self and improve their functioning at work and in their relationships. Over the years I have helped many adults, children and teens with academic and behavioral issues, family conflicts, depression, anxiety and chronic pain relief.
(661) 412-9609 View (661) 412-9609
Photo of Augusto Huerta-Minakata, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Augusto Huerta-Minakata
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Augusto Huerta Minakata, LMFT Augusto is a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. With over 10 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, and as a graduate of the University of Phoenix specializing in Solution-Focused therapy, he is currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among his areas of expertise are the treatment of maternal mental health, trauma, depression, anxiety, survivors of domestic violence, physical abuse, sexual abuse, community violence, and adult children of alcoholic.
Augusto Huerta Minakata, LMFT Augusto is a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. With over 10 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist, and as a graduate of the University of Phoenix specializing in Solution-Focused therapy, he is currently serving as a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among his areas of expertise are the treatment of maternal mental health, trauma, depression, anxiety, survivors of domestic violence, physical abuse, sexual abuse, community violence, and adult children of alcoholic.
(805) 567-2971 View (805) 567-2971
Photo of Stefanie Lucia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stefanie Lucia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
Are you struggling with identity? Feeling worthless or like an imposter? Are you snapping at loved ones over little things? Or repeating relationships, patterns, or situations, and wishing you could break the cycle? Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your issues, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to change your life. Therapy isn't always easy, but neither is the distress you're feeling now. And it's ok to need help; we all do.
(707) 708-4461 View (707) 708-4461
Photo of Shauna Hoffman, MA, MFT, BCT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shauna Hoffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, BCT
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
As a Relationship Specialist, Author, Podcaster and Speaker the first relationship I want my clients to look at is the relationship with themselves. Depression, Self Esteem Issues, Marital Conflict and even grief, are often a sign that you are truly on the search for who you are in this world. Whether you are a newly divorced adult, a couple striving to understand each other or a teen searching for self esteem, if you don't look within, you can never find your way to happiness. I offer Individual, Joint and Family Counseling. My podcast, A Journey To Awareness can be heard on IHeart Radio, Spotify, Apple and other Podcast platforms
As a Relationship Specialist, Author, Podcaster and Speaker the first relationship I want my clients to look at is the relationship with themselves. Depression, Self Esteem Issues, Marital Conflict and even grief, are often a sign that you are truly on the search for who you are in this world. Whether you are a newly divorced adult, a couple striving to understand each other or a teen searching for self esteem, if you don't look within, you can never find your way to happiness. I offer Individual, Joint and Family Counseling. My podcast, A Journey To Awareness can be heard on IHeart Radio, Spotify, Apple and other Podcast platforms
(661) 430-0392 View (661) 430-0392
Photo of Jacquie Pershing, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquie Pershing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321  (Online Only)
Led by my own life experience with mental health and grief and fueled by my work in private practice, I strive to provide support to all kinds of people experiencing all types of loss. Together, we can navigate the storms and celebrate the rainbows that await on the other side. Whether you are experiencing the loss of a loved one, going through a significant life change, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of daily life, I am here to support you and be a companion as you move through your healing journey
Led by my own life experience with mental health and grief and fueled by my work in private practice, I strive to provide support to all kinds of people experiencing all types of loss. Together, we can navigate the storms and celebrate the rainbows that await on the other side. Whether you are experiencing the loss of a loved one, going through a significant life change, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of daily life, I am here to support you and be a companion as you move through your healing journey
(661) 760-7573 View (661) 760-7573
Photo of Andrew D. Greif, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew D. Greif
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Stevenson Ranch, CA 91381
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
It takes a great deal of courage to embark on an experience of bettering one’s life. I feel honored to be a part of that process. Clients arrive in therapy for a myriad of different reasons, but most of all, seem to have a very clear goal of bettering their lives. I truly enjoy collaborating with Clients to make this happen, and strive to give my Clients tools to use many years into the future. I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, eating disorders, relationship issues and addiction.
(818) 848-1488 View (818) 848-1488
Photo of Jennifer Kerr, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Clarita, CA 91355  (Online Only)
I believe everyone has the capacity to achieve their goals and become their authentic self. My approach to therapy involves empowering individuals to better understand themselves and tap into inner resources needed to heal and make desired life changes. I focus on helping you develop a deeper exploration of who you are and help you understand obstacles and trauma getting in the way of you achieving what you desire in life. We cannot change the past, but together we can work together to create a better future. Therapy is difficult self -work, but I will work alongside you to create the space to promote healing and empower you.
I believe everyone has the capacity to achieve their goals and become their authentic self. My approach to therapy involves empowering individuals to better understand themselves and tap into inner resources needed to heal and make desired life changes. I focus on helping you develop a deeper exploration of who you are and help you understand obstacles and trauma getting in the way of you achieving what you desire in life. We cannot change the past, but together we can work together to create a better future. Therapy is difficult self -work, but I will work alongside you to create the space to promote healing and empower you.
(323) 870-6970 View (323) 870-6970
Karen L. Kenney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
Trauma, grief and loss issues compromise the bulk of my client caseload. I find that adults can hold the impact of childhood trauma for years before seeking psychotherapy and often mask their pain with anxiety, depression or compulsive behaviors. My experience is that getting to the hidden pain and strengths that each client carries through his or her daily lives and relationships are the core of healing. There are no quick fixes, but exploring ways to accent life skills, improve self-respect and relationships are keys to building more wholeness in each person's heart, mind, body and spirit. Especially now.
Trauma, grief and loss issues compromise the bulk of my client caseload. I find that adults can hold the impact of childhood trauma for years before seeking psychotherapy and often mask their pain with anxiety, depression or compulsive behaviors. My experience is that getting to the hidden pain and strengths that each client carries through his or her daily lives and relationships are the core of healing. There are no quick fixes, but exploring ways to accent life skills, improve self-respect and relationships are keys to building more wholeness in each person's heart, mind, body and spirit. Especially now.
(818) 960-1250 View (818) 960-1250

See more therapy options for Newhall

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.