Adoption Therapists in Valencia, CA
![Photo of Rachael Parsons Svendsen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc0c92cd-4d1b-435e-a9e0-3dd37da9f622/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachael Parsons Svendsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
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.
![Photo of Stefanie Lucia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61377073-3e00-4f06-9340-a1d1c61cede5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stefanie Lucia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 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.
![Photo of Peggy Marie Harden-Haig - Peggy Harden-Haig Marriage Family Therapist Inc., MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3194f6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sally Kuch, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9897cef7-1f0a-45b3-86d5-0932a54d6486/3/320x400.jpeg)
The Healing Place is intended to help clients achieve their fullest potential in their relationship to self and others. I have been successful at helping people feel better and relate more effectively. I can help you discover your most authentic self by getting to the core issues and healing the underlying pain.
I am especially skilled in helping families build healthy and rewarding relationships even in the midst of crisis and hopelessness.
My dedication is to help you flourish in your life. In therapy, facing your "real" self can lead to a deeper understanding allowing you to become more whole.
The Healing Place is intended to help clients achieve their fullest potential in their relationship to self and others. I have been successful at helping people feel better and relate more effectively. I can help you discover your most authentic self by getting to the core issues and healing the underlying pain.
I am especially skilled in helping families build healthy and rewarding relationships even in the midst of crisis and hopelessness.
My dedication is to help you flourish in your life. In therapy, facing your "real" self can lead to a deeper understanding allowing you to become more whole.
![Photo of Melissa Shaver, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71d0bf8a-deb6-48a1-a249-14f51fba2239/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you finding yourself using coping skills that are no longer working? The minute we find balance life always likes to throw in a curveball that can throw us off, and I am here to help! Working with adults, families, and children I can help you find better ways to cope and support you through this journey of life. If you are looking to find support for your child or yourself, I help clients reach their goals by providing tools, information, and support.
Are you finding yourself using coping skills that are no longer working? The minute we find balance life always likes to throw in a curveball that can throw us off, and I am here to help! Working with adults, families, and children I can help you find better ways to cope and support you through this journey of life. If you are looking to find support for your child or yourself, I help clients reach their goals by providing tools, information, and support.
![Photo of Jeffrey Lumaya, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf5286d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Congratulations on taking the initial steps to address the painful or troubling issue in your life. I find it very important that you take the time to explore the right match for you when choosing a psychotherapist. Ask yourself: Will I be comfortable in sharing painful or personal issues with this therapist over time? Do the area(s) of expertise match with my needs? Will my values and worldviews be respected during the course treatment? I offer a free, no-obligation, initial consultation to discuss issues at hand, and to determine if we are a good fit for each other.
Congratulations on taking the initial steps to address the painful or troubling issue in your life. I find it very important that you take the time to explore the right match for you when choosing a psychotherapist. Ask yourself: Will I be comfortable in sharing painful or personal issues with this therapist over time? Do the area(s) of expertise match with my needs? Will my values and worldviews be respected during the course treatment? I offer a free, no-obligation, initial consultation to discuss issues at hand, and to determine if we are a good fit for each other.
![Photo of Zack Reed-Fier, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0681e002-e8f9-45a9-a3d6-a1c8264f177d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zack Reed-Fier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you a people-pleaser? Feeling anxious, fatigued, or unmotivated? Are you burned out from chronic pain / illness? Are you or your loved ones repeating patterns & wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life just feels more stressful than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. Even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your difficulties, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to help you change your life.
Are you a people-pleaser? Feeling anxious, fatigued, or unmotivated? Are you burned out from chronic pain / illness? Are you or your loved ones repeating patterns & wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life just feels more stressful than usual. Sometimes, we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we can sense we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. Even when we know the cause, change can still feel impossible. That's where I come in. My job is to listen, help you understand the root causes of your difficulties, break unwanted patterns, and teach you practical tools to help you change your life.
![Photo of Kristina Waldron, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/376de0bc-b2ba-428b-917c-55be3984434c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe, that most people are capable of experiencing change if given the opportunity, support, and motivation in order to achieve their personal goals. My warm approach with client's is encouraging, inclusive and collaborative. I tailor therapy sessions wtih therapeutic interventions based on the needs of each individual, using multiple evidenced based therapies and practices. I work with adults, children, teens and their families virtually or in the office. I additionally offer a specialization serving the 0-5 age population, and provide parenting support and parent groups for children birth-12 years of age.
I believe, that most people are capable of experiencing change if given the opportunity, support, and motivation in order to achieve their personal goals. My warm approach with client's is encouraging, inclusive and collaborative. I tailor therapy sessions wtih therapeutic interventions based on the needs of each individual, using multiple evidenced based therapies and practices. I work with adults, children, teens and their families virtually or in the office. I additionally offer a specialization serving the 0-5 age population, and provide parenting support and parent groups for children birth-12 years of age.
![Photo of Linda Raviv, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d58083d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Julia Young - Caring Connected, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5044e6b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Caring Connected
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, APCC, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
Are you feeling disconnected, stressed, stuck, scared, or angry? Are you repeating relationships, patterns, or situations and wishing you could break the cycle? Maybe life feels more frustrating or stressful than usual. Sometimes we aren't sure what causes our distress, but we know we're not reaching our potential for health, happiness, or success. And even if we know what the issue is, change can feel impossible. That's where our team of qualified professionals can help. Our job isn't to judge you or your choices, it's to help you understand the root causes of your issues and work together to create a custom plan for change.
![Photo of Relinda Vanderwal Fisher, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/176be2be-de9d-4fe4-94ca-e7a80089869f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Relinda Vanderwal Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355 (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 challenges might include varieties of loss, adversity, grief, caregiving, parenting, life transitions, aging, and navigating these unique family and relational dynamics, all within a range of mental health concerns, which may include anxiety and depression. There is much to be gained when we are intent on gaining clarity, finding new perspectives and 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 challenges might include varieties of loss, adversity, grief, caregiving, parenting, life transitions, aging, and navigating these unique family and relational dynamics, all within a range of mental health concerns, which may include anxiety and depression. There is much to be gained when we are intent on gaining clarity, finding new perspectives and building healthier and stronger relationships with our loved ones, the treasures of our lives.
15 Second Videos
Sally Kuch
Relinda Vanderwal Fisher
Cathy Marutzky
![Photo of Andrew D. Greif, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e25b63f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Reginald L. Veurink, MDiv, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3d1094-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kelly A. Brainard, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bc5f74c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Psychotherapy may be helpful to you if:
You are experiencing difficulty or conflict/communication problems within a significant relationship. Psychotherapy may also be helpful to you if you are currently experiencing symptoms of depression (feeling hopeless, withdrawal, irritable, etc) or anxiety (excessive worry, obsessive or intrusive thoughts etc.) if you are frequently angry or frequently stressed or you are facing major life challenges or decisions.
Psychotherapy is the process of examining and exploring your thoughts, feelings, behavior and relationships as well as learning how to make necessary changes to achieve better life and relationship satisfaction.
Psychotherapy may be helpful to you if:
You are experiencing difficulty or conflict/communication problems within a significant relationship. Psychotherapy may also be helpful to you if you are currently experiencing symptoms of depression (feeling hopeless, withdrawal, irritable, etc) or anxiety (excessive worry, obsessive or intrusive thoughts etc.) if you are frequently angry or frequently stressed or you are facing major life challenges or decisions.
Psychotherapy is the process of examining and exploring your thoughts, feelings, behavior and relationships as well as learning how to make necessary changes to achieve better life and relationship satisfaction.
![Photo of Cathy Marutzky, MEd, LPCC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46fe51dc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cathy Marutzky
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valencia, CA 91355 (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor and I have enjoyed working with children, teens, and adults for thirty years. I feel passionate about helping individuals and couples find peace and healing for their lives and relationships. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, anger or relationship issues I can offer help. As a couple you may feel like you need to learn communication skills or how to reconnect emotionally. Perhaps you are having family problems and need help finding resolution. I have found that counseling provides the tools and resources to help us manage and overcome life's challenges.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor and I have enjoyed working with children, teens, and adults for thirty years. I feel passionate about helping individuals and couples find peace and healing for their lives and relationships. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, anger or relationship issues I can offer help. As a couple you may feel like you need to learn communication skills or how to reconnect emotionally. Perhaps you are having family problems and need help finding resolution. I have found that counseling provides the tools and resources to help us manage and overcome life's challenges.
![Photo of Alexander Karimi - SCV Counseling Center, LMFT, MA, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efc16e05-105f-45e5-b52d-89e4f82900d6/1/320x400.jpeg)
SCV Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Valencia, CA 91355
Childcare is provided during your session. Bring the kids to spend time at our Kid's Room, while you get treatment from our therapists. With over 20 therapists there is always one that will match your requirements. All of our therapists hold a minimum of a master's degree in a psychology-related field that qualifies them with the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) to provide counseling/therapy in California. Sessions are available in-person as well as online via telehealth. We are accepting new clients now and can get you an appointment within 2-3 days. Open every day apart from Sundays, from 10:30 AM to late evening.
Childcare is provided during your session. Bring the kids to spend time at our Kid's Room, while you get treatment from our therapists. With over 20 therapists there is always one that will match your requirements. All of our therapists hold a minimum of a master's degree in a psychology-related field that qualifies them with the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) to provide counseling/therapy in California. Sessions are available in-person as well as online via telehealth. We are accepting new clients now and can get you an appointment within 2-3 days. Open every day apart from Sundays, from 10:30 AM to late evening.
![Photo of Tricia I Colcord, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4953f24d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you crave a change? Is anxiety, depression or grief taking over your days? Are you looking to move past an obstacle to you living YOUR best life? Therapy can be the tool that helps you move forward and unlock the future you want. Over the past 5 years, I have been working with individuals, families and children using creative and innovative interventions to assist them in reaching their goals. As a Family Centered Therapist I have collaborated with families in reducing conflict and increasing attachment in order to reach their full potential.
Do you crave a change? Is anxiety, depression or grief taking over your days? Are you looking to move past an obstacle to you living YOUR best life? Therapy can be the tool that helps you move forward and unlock the future you want. Over the past 5 years, I have been working with individuals, families and children using creative and innovative interventions to assist them in reaching their goals. As a Family Centered Therapist I have collaborated with families in reducing conflict and increasing attachment in order to reach their full potential.
![Photo of Tim Smyth, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d7b179-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Aaron Kellogg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ff6605c-4a81-4014-a6a5-4fecb64b64da/2/320x400.png)
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship or thought patterns? Do you wish you knew your partner or yourself better than you do now? Do you want to get real answers to these questions? I can help. I have been told by previous clients that they have learned more about their partner and themselves than they have after decades of marriage and therapy. I love helping people get to the bottom-line of what they experience and I excel at it.
Are you feeling stuck in your relationship or thought patterns? Do you wish you knew your partner or yourself better than you do now? Do you want to get real answers to these questions? I can help. I have been told by previous clients that they have learned more about their partner and themselves than they have after decades of marriage and therapy. I love helping people get to the bottom-line of what they experience and I excel at it.
![Photo of Margo DeCuir, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3614744-f7d2-47a6-b337-15297708c029/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Valencia
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Valencia
- Canoga Park
- Castaic
- Granada Hills
- Newhall
- Northridge
- Porter Ranch
- Santa Clarita
- Simi Valley
- Stevenson Ranch
- Sylmar
- Tarzana
- West Hills
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.