Adoption Therapists in Silver Lake, CA

Photo of Suzan Olson Davis, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Suzan Olson Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026
My personal journey as an adoptive mother navigating an open adoption has helped me gain a deep understanding of the complex vulnerabilities those in the adoption community experience, and has driven my desire to help us understand ourselves and each other better.
All of us experience twists and turns, triumphs and losses as we navigate our own unique paths. As a supportive co-collaborator, I will compassionately guide you through life's numerous obstacles – identifying and exploring the challenges which are blocking you from living your preferred life. Together, we’ll build a solid foundation to make space for new narratives of empowerment inspired by your values, hopes, and dreams. My therapeutic approach is integrative and grounded in mindfulness - drawing from various therapeutic modalities in order to fit your own unique needs.
My personal journey as an adoptive mother navigating an open adoption has helped me gain a deep understanding of the complex vulnerabilities those in the adoption community experience, and has driven my desire to help us understand ourselves and each other better.
All of us experience twists and turns, triumphs and losses as we navigate our own unique paths. As a supportive co-collaborator, I will compassionately guide you through life's numerous obstacles – identifying and exploring the challenges which are blocking you from living your preferred life. Together, we’ll build a solid foundation to make space for new narratives of empowerment inspired by your values, hopes, and dreams. My therapeutic approach is integrative and grounded in mindfulness - drawing from various therapeutic modalities in order to fit your own unique needs.
(323) 991-8950 View (323) 991-8950
Photo of Tina Lynam, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tina Lynam
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026
My practice includes issues ranging from anxiety, self-esteem and depression to life transitions, infertility, adoption, postpartum and parenting issues to illness and bereavement.
I work with a diverse population with varying goals. For some it is to work through their anxiety and depression, and for others it is to work through their current struggles with relationships, parenting, career or loss of a loved one. I help clients understand how they want to live, and to explore, meet and overcome their challenges. My relationship with each client is unique and an important part of therapy. I incorporate different types of treatment and work from an inclusive perspective of each client's own experience. I meet with clients in my office, offer walking sessions in the park and sessions via Zoom.
My practice includes issues ranging from anxiety, self-esteem and depression to life transitions, infertility, adoption, postpartum and parenting issues to illness and bereavement.
I work with a diverse population with varying goals. For some it is to work through their anxiety and depression, and for others it is to work through their current struggles with relationships, parenting, career or loss of a loved one. I help clients understand how they want to live, and to explore, meet and overcome their challenges. My relationship with each client is unique and an important part of therapy. I incorporate different types of treatment and work from an inclusive perspective of each client's own experience. I meet with clients in my office, offer walking sessions in the park and sessions via Zoom.
(213) 204-5726 View (213) 204-5726
Photo of Tracy Sondern, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Tracy Sondern
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026
A former creative professional, I’ve been married over 30 years and have lived experience in many of the issues couples face including infertility, adoption and issues related to menopause.
Even though you know you love your partner, you’ve started to wonder if you still like them. I’m trained in the Gottman Method and want to help you find your way back to each other. Sometimes the pressures of everyday life can push you into opposite corners making your partner seem like your opponent. I want to help you improve your communication, empathy, emotional and intimate connection. My goal is for you to feel like you are on the same team again, working towards the same goals and liking each other in the process.
A former creative professional, I’ve been married over 30 years and have lived experience in many of the issues couples face including infertility, adoption and issues related to menopause.
Even though you know you love your partner, you’ve started to wonder if you still like them. I’m trained in the Gottman Method and want to help you find your way back to each other. Sometimes the pressures of everyday life can push you into opposite corners making your partner seem like your opponent. I want to help you improve your communication, empathy, emotional and intimate connection. My goal is for you to feel like you are on the same team again, working towards the same goals and liking each other in the process.
(818) 338-5021 View (818) 338-5021
Photo of Megan Pitsios, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Pitsios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026
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 Jonathan Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026  (Online Only)
You’ve needed changes but for too long, your efforts get complicated by self-sabotage and triggered reactions. When triggered, you prefer to isolate and withdraw so you don’t need to worry more about straining your relationships. You’ve had to be self-reliant for so long that you can’t imagine asking for what you need without feeling selfish or worrying about burdening others. Much of your attention is preoccupied with anticipating harm or preventing social rejection. You know that you’re self-aware and knowledgeable about your struggles. But you don’t know how to implement the steps towards actual deep, lasting healing and change.
You’ve needed changes but for too long, your efforts get complicated by self-sabotage and triggered reactions. When triggered, you prefer to isolate and withdraw so you don’t need to worry more about straining your relationships. You’ve had to be self-reliant for so long that you can’t imagine asking for what you need without feeling selfish or worrying about burdening others. Much of your attention is preoccupied with anticipating harm or preventing social rejection. You know that you’re self-aware and knowledgeable about your struggles. But you don’t know how to implement the steps towards actual deep, lasting healing and change.
(510) 930-3465 View (510) 930-3465
Photo of Michael Cowen, MA, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Michael Cowen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026
I know these profiles can be a lot to take in, so before you skip to the next one, or just carry on living your life, can I leave you with this one thing? I wouldn’t claim to know a thing about you, your life, or what you've been through, but my firm belief, backed by science, is that despite what you might have learned or been told; you are not broken. Quite the opposite in fact... Still here? OK, I'll be quick!
I know these profiles can be a lot to take in, so before you skip to the next one, or just carry on living your life, can I leave you with this one thing? I wouldn’t claim to know a thing about you, your life, or what you've been through, but my firm belief, backed by science, is that despite what you might have learned or been told; you are not broken. Quite the opposite in fact... Still here? OK, I'll be quick!
(323) 747-7260 View (323) 747-7260
Photo of Erin C Mason, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin C Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Silver Lake, CA 90026
We all tell ourselves a story about who we are, where we come from, and what we believe. Understanding our story unleashes the power to influence it in new and constructive ways. What’s your story? I use thought-provoking questions and empowering perspectives to gently guide my clients through the process of exploring and understanding how they tell their story. With over 22 years in the field of mental health and wellness, I apply a customized and collaborative approach, to help individuals and couples navigate transitions, resolve internal/external conflicts, and restore balance.
We all tell ourselves a story about who we are, where we come from, and what we believe. Understanding our story unleashes the power to influence it in new and constructive ways. What’s your story? I use thought-provoking questions and empowering perspectives to gently guide my clients through the process of exploring and understanding how they tell their story. With over 22 years in the field of mental health and wellness, I apply a customized and collaborative approach, to help individuals and couples navigate transitions, resolve internal/external conflicts, and restore balance.
(818) 963-9434 View (818) 963-9434
Photo of Shain Miller, PsyD, Psychologist
Shain Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Silver Lake, CA 90026  (Online Only)
Are you a successful professional, yet find yourself craving personal satisfaction on a daily basis? Are you innovative, imaginative and resourceful, but can't use those gifts to get the life you dream of? Is stress causing you to panic, withdraw, or feel like a fraud? Over time, we all internalize messages we've received throughout our lives, and unconsciously organize our sense of self around that pain. If you find yourself remembering who you "used to be" and wondering "where did I go?", we can work to regain your sense of self while having satisfying personal and professional relationships.
Are you a successful professional, yet find yourself craving personal satisfaction on a daily basis? Are you innovative, imaginative and resourceful, but can't use those gifts to get the life you dream of? Is stress causing you to panic, withdraw, or feel like a fraud? Over time, we all internalize messages we've received throughout our lives, and unconsciously organize our sense of self around that pain. If you find yourself remembering who you "used to be" and wondering "where did I go?", we can work to regain your sense of self while having satisfying personal and professional relationships.
(310) 896-4054 View (310) 896-4054
Photo of Laurie A Kaman, MBA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laurie A Kaman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026
Making the decision to change your life takes courage. It's a big step to have decided that you want more from life and to be pursuing something different. Personal change, whether it involves emotions, thoughts or behaviors, can be difficult and scary. It can also be exciting and incredibly rewarding. Engaging in a therapeutic relationship can provide a safe and nurturing space. Together, we'll explore your inner world to find clarity, to understand your self-sabotaging patterns, identify the issues standing in your way and work to promote growth, emotional balance and self-acceptance, allowing you to become the best version of you
Making the decision to change your life takes courage. It's a big step to have decided that you want more from life and to be pursuing something different. Personal change, whether it involves emotions, thoughts or behaviors, can be difficult and scary. It can also be exciting and incredibly rewarding. Engaging in a therapeutic relationship can provide a safe and nurturing space. Together, we'll explore your inner world to find clarity, to understand your self-sabotaging patterns, identify the issues standing in your way and work to promote growth, emotional balance and self-acceptance, allowing you to become the best version of you
(424) 203-4987 View (424) 203-4987
Photo of Bianca N Martinez, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bianca N Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PMH-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026  (Online Only)
Just because you're struggling, does not mean you're failing! Are you a new mom who feels like something is just not quite right? Has starting a family been difficult and/or different than you imagined it would be? Has your new role left you feeling overwhelmed? Do you sometimes regret becoming a parent? Do you just need support while you figure it out? Trust your instincts. Transitioning into motherhood can be a time filled with joy and excitement but also stress, frustration, fear and heartbreak. I enjoy working alongside clients through their unique journeys of trying to conceive, pregnancy, postpartum and whatever comes next.
Just because you're struggling, does not mean you're failing! Are you a new mom who feels like something is just not quite right? Has starting a family been difficult and/or different than you imagined it would be? Has your new role left you feeling overwhelmed? Do you sometimes regret becoming a parent? Do you just need support while you figure it out? Trust your instincts. Transitioning into motherhood can be a time filled with joy and excitement but also stress, frustration, fear and heartbreak. I enjoy working alongside clients through their unique journeys of trying to conceive, pregnancy, postpartum and whatever comes next.
(626) 684-4950 View (626) 684-4950
Photo of Alexander Uhlmann, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexander Uhlmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Lake, CA 90026
I know that living with the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety and grief can feel hopeless and exhausting. I also know that beginning psychotherapy can feel scary. I hope to provide you with a space that feels warm, non-judgmental and hopeful. More importantly, I hope that my training and skill set can provide you with relief from what you have been living through.
I know that living with the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety and grief can feel hopeless and exhausting. I also know that beginning psychotherapy can feel scary. I hope to provide you with a space that feels warm, non-judgmental and hopeful. More importantly, I hope that my training and skill set can provide you with relief from what you have been living through.
(323) 417-0289 View (323) 417-0289

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Quirina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Quirina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026  (Online Only)
My particular areas of interest include life transitions, new parenthood, adoption, fertility, anxiety, school issues and career counseling.
People come to therapy at different times, for different reasons, and with different needs. Perhaps you need a space to process current or past events in your life, or maybe you know there is a difficult change you need to make. Maybe both, or maybe you're not sure. My approach to therapy is to provide the specific balance you need between support and challenge. As we develop the therapeutic relationship, it is my hope that you will feel safe and supported to do the kind of work that is most beneficial to you at this time.
My particular areas of interest include life transitions, new parenthood, adoption, fertility, anxiety, school issues and career counseling.
People come to therapy at different times, for different reasons, and with different needs. Perhaps you need a space to process current or past events in your life, or maybe you know there is a difficult change you need to make. Maybe both, or maybe you're not sure. My approach to therapy is to provide the specific balance you need between support and challenge. As we develop the therapeutic relationship, it is my hope that you will feel safe and supported to do the kind of work that is most beneficial to you at this time.
(630) 283-7364 View (630) 283-7364
Photo of Jessica Cowley, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Cowley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
My personal experience as an adoptive parent and former foster parent gives me unique insight into the complexities of adoption, and I am deeply invested in providing compassionate care to folks in the adoption constellation.
I work with adults, children, and couples using a strengths-based approach that helps create insight, foster resilience, and alleviate suffering. I believe that healing happens in relationship, and strive to create a sense of safety in the therapeutic space through warmth, humor, curiosity, and collaboration. I bring an intersectional perspective to therapy, exploring with clients the nuanced interplay between culture, society and mental health. My practice is trauma-informed and honors the profound connection between body and mind, employing somatic techniques to deepen awareness of emotions and facilitate healing.
My personal experience as an adoptive parent and former foster parent gives me unique insight into the complexities of adoption, and I am deeply invested in providing compassionate care to folks in the adoption constellation.
I work with adults, children, and couples using a strengths-based approach that helps create insight, foster resilience, and alleviate suffering. I believe that healing happens in relationship, and strive to create a sense of safety in the therapeutic space through warmth, humor, curiosity, and collaboration. I bring an intersectional perspective to therapy, exploring with clients the nuanced interplay between culture, society and mental health. My practice is trauma-informed and honors the profound connection between body and mind, employing somatic techniques to deepen awareness of emotions and facilitate healing.
(213) 377-3257 View (213) 377-3257
Photo of 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 Angela Gee, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Gee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Each member of the adoption triad - adoptee, birth mother, adoptive parent, may experience a different set of challenges that affect our relationships within the family, and with the outside world.
Are you looking for a safe space to share your feelings; to better understand your emotional self? If you are experiencing relationship problems, feel stuck or blocked, anxious or depressed, we can work together to understand these issues. Sometimes we know that things don't feel right, but can't put our finger on it. Through guided exploration, we can discover underlying causes for these feelings, and develop a more authentic connection with ourselves and with others. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents.
Each member of the adoption triad - adoptee, birth mother, adoptive parent, may experience a different set of challenges that affect our relationships within the family, and with the outside world.
Are you looking for a safe space to share your feelings; to better understand your emotional self? If you are experiencing relationship problems, feel stuck or blocked, anxious or depressed, we can work together to understand these issues. Sometimes we know that things don't feel right, but can't put our finger on it. Through guided exploration, we can discover underlying causes for these feelings, and develop a more authentic connection with ourselves and with others. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents.
(310) 845-6975 View (310) 845-6975
Photo of Deepa Karmakar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deepa Karmakar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
My areas of expertise include PTSD + complex trauma, grief, relationships (whether it's the relationship you have with yourself or with the people in your orbit), intimate partner violence and individuals with foster/ adoption history.
Do you have a difficult time imagining what safety looks like? Do you feel like there's a disconnect that keeps you from the truest parts of yourself? If you've found your way here, it's likely because you're carrying a burden that's become too heavy to bear alone. Trauma, grief, and attachment wounds are not just about the past - it shows up in your body, in the relationships that you have with yourself and others, and shapes the lens in which you view the world. Here, you'll find a safe space to untangle the complexities of your experiences so that you can focus on rebuilding the sense of control and peace you deserve.
My areas of expertise include PTSD + complex trauma, grief, relationships (whether it's the relationship you have with yourself or with the people in your orbit), intimate partner violence and individuals with foster/ adoption history.
Do you have a difficult time imagining what safety looks like? Do you feel like there's a disconnect that keeps you from the truest parts of yourself? If you've found your way here, it's likely because you're carrying a burden that's become too heavy to bear alone. Trauma, grief, and attachment wounds are not just about the past - it shows up in your body, in the relationships that you have with yourself and others, and shapes the lens in which you view the world. Here, you'll find a safe space to untangle the complexities of your experiences so that you can focus on rebuilding the sense of control and peace you deserve.
(424) 226-5723 View (424) 226-5723
Photo of Amber West, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90012
With my experience in working in foster care, adoption, and in schools, I find that my approach is helpful for those who are looking for guidance with issues in those areas of their lives.
Hi! My name is Amber West, and I am an LCSW based in Southern California focusing on servicing clients through telehealth all throughout the state of California. I work with adolescents, young adults, and parents specializing in school issues, anxiety, and stress. As a hard-of-hearing therapist myself, I am here to support, guide, and help the deaf and hard-of-hearing community be their best selves. My approach varies based on the needs of the clients I work with. I most frequently use solution-focused, cognitive behavior therapy, and client-centered approach.
With my experience in working in foster care, adoption, and in schools, I find that my approach is helpful for those who are looking for guidance with issues in those areas of their lives.
Hi! My name is Amber West, and I am an LCSW based in Southern California focusing on servicing clients through telehealth all throughout the state of California. I work with adolescents, young adults, and parents specializing in school issues, anxiety, and stress. As a hard-of-hearing therapist myself, I am here to support, guide, and help the deaf and hard-of-hearing community be their best selves. My approach varies based on the needs of the clients I work with. I most frequently use solution-focused, cognitive behavior therapy, and client-centered approach.
(916) 581-6037 View (916) 581-6037
Photo of Livia Winnett, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Livia Winnett
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90012
I work with individuals, couples, and families interested in exploring relationship patterns, effective communication, parenting and attachment, gender identity, teen/pre-teen experience, adoption, and work / life balance.
Welcome. I work with children, adolescents, and adults coping with relational, attachment, and anxiety disorders. In my practice, therapy often entails exploring the impact of early attachment experiences on our views of self and our ability to form close, meaningful relationships throughout life. In our work together, you will be treated with warmth, empathy, and openness. The most important part of our work is the development of a trusting relationship. This relationship creates a thoughtful, safe space to explore your strengths, challenges, and goals. My approach to clinical work is largely relational and psychodynamic.
I work with individuals, couples, and families interested in exploring relationship patterns, effective communication, parenting and attachment, gender identity, teen/pre-teen experience, adoption, and work / life balance.
Welcome. I work with children, adolescents, and adults coping with relational, attachment, and anxiety disorders. In my practice, therapy often entails exploring the impact of early attachment experiences on our views of self and our ability to form close, meaningful relationships throughout life. In our work together, you will be treated with warmth, empathy, and openness. The most important part of our work is the development of a trusting relationship. This relationship creates a thoughtful, safe space to explore your strengths, challenges, and goals. My approach to clinical work is largely relational and psychodynamic.
(510) 240-1972 View (510) 240-1972
Photo of Cassie Karr, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassie Karr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
I also enjoy working with issues around adoption, parenting, and non-traditional families and relationships.
Choosing a therapist is an important decision. Therapy tends to work best when there is a strong relationship between you and your therapist. My goal is to create an environment where you feel seen, heard, cared for, and understood. Processing your experiences in therapy helps to deepen self-awareness, and can positively impact your mood, functioning, and interpersonal relationships. The therapeutic process can be both challenging and rewarding, so the ideal client is one who is up to the challenge.
I also enjoy working with issues around adoption, parenting, and non-traditional families and relationships.
Choosing a therapist is an important decision. Therapy tends to work best when there is a strong relationship between you and your therapist. My goal is to create an environment where you feel seen, heard, cared for, and understood. Processing your experiences in therapy helps to deepen self-awareness, and can positively impact your mood, functioning, and interpersonal relationships. The therapeutic process can be both challenging and rewarding, so the ideal client is one who is up to the challenge.
(714) 410-2219 View (714) 410-2219
Photo of Paul Keeley, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paul Keeley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
Other areas include: anxiety, depression, low self esteem/self worth, adoption related issues, addictions and Gay and Lesbian issues.
I am dedicated to helping others improve the quality of their lives. I have a deep respect for those who come into my office and want to look at issues that can often be very painful and challenging. We all have areas that we struggle with at different times. I provide a very compassionate approach, one that will help you gain insight into what gets in the way of you having a fuller, healthier and happier life.
Other areas include: anxiety, depression, low self esteem/self worth, adoption related issues, addictions and Gay and Lesbian issues.
I am dedicated to helping others improve the quality of their lives. I have a deep respect for those who come into my office and want to look at issues that can often be very painful and challenging. We all have areas that we struggle with at different times. I provide a very compassionate approach, one that will help you gain insight into what gets in the way of you having a fuller, healthier and happier life.
(323) 570-5678 View (323) 570-5678

See more therapy options for Silver Lake

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.