Adoption Therapists in Valley Springs, CA
![Photo of Rebecca Schimp](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5627059f-57fb-4a5d-9add-ebd4d7205479/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Schimp
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Valley Springs, CA 95252 (Online Only)
After doing some self exploration did you realize deep down you are struggling with worry, stress, low self-esteem, trauma, or just every day functioning? Do you feel out of balance and overwhelmed with work, home, or in your relationships? Then you have taken a step in the right direction. I have a passion for working with children, first responders and their families, and anyone who is ready to start making changes to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.
After doing some self exploration did you realize deep down you are struggling with worry, stress, low self-esteem, trauma, or just every day functioning? Do you feel out of balance and overwhelmed with work, home, or in your relationships? Then you have taken a step in the right direction. I have a passion for working with children, first responders and their families, and anyone who is ready to start making changes to live a fulfilling and purposeful life.
![Photo of Samantha J Cooper, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/097cc9f2-a24b-4a73-9c7d-2d0f8d3e05ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is a child, 3 to 18 years old that is a survivor of trauma. Play therapy offers our beloved children a needed safe and familiar place to tell their stories. It is this arena of play that children are empowered to lead the way in their therapy. Deciding when and how to share the details of their story on the journey of healing.
My ideal client is a child, 3 to 18 years old that is a survivor of trauma. Play therapy offers our beloved children a needed safe and familiar place to tell their stories. It is this arena of play that children are empowered to lead the way in their therapy. Deciding when and how to share the details of their story on the journey of healing.
![Photo of Marybeth Wiefels - HorseSpeak Animal Assisted Counseling (Marybeth) , MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c8c337d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
HorseSpeak Animal Assisted Counseling (Marybeth)
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Valley Springs, CA 95252
Are you an animal lover? If a four-legged co-therapist sounds good, then you will love our center. The office is located on a beautiful ranch where animals abound. You can choose to talk in the office with a dog at your feet, a cat in your lap, or just enjoy the view of the horse pasture from the window. If walking and talking is easier, we can stroll the grounds, sit by the duck pond, or pet goats in the petting zoo. Or try Equine Assisted Counseling, an effective, experiential approach to therapy. You will interact with horses who act as a mirror, allowing you to gain valuable insights and solutions. The choice is yours.
Are you an animal lover? If a four-legged co-therapist sounds good, then you will love our center. The office is located on a beautiful ranch where animals abound. You can choose to talk in the office with a dog at your feet, a cat in your lap, or just enjoy the view of the horse pasture from the window. If walking and talking is easier, we can stroll the grounds, sit by the duck pond, or pet goats in the petting zoo. Or try Equine Assisted Counseling, an effective, experiential approach to therapy. You will interact with horses who act as a mirror, allowing you to gain valuable insights and solutions. The choice is yours.
![Photo of Christine Mckeehan - About the Soul Counseling, LCSW Corp, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f2920e4-0017-4d9b-8e23-1ee11b09f92c/4/320x400.jpeg)
About the Soul Counseling, LCSW Corp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Valley Springs, CA 95252 (Online Only)
Asking for help can be stressful, but you are worth it. I believe that healing begins from the inside out. From our very first session together, we will explore your goals and the issues that concern you the most. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. You are not alone. I believe that you can have power and control over your own life. I look forward to collaborating with you to create the change that you are seeking. Please contact me today for a free consultation and a good faith estimate of cost. If the courts or your employer sent you to anger management, my team offers a court-ordered anger management program.
Asking for help can be stressful, but you are worth it. I believe that healing begins from the inside out. From our very first session together, we will explore your goals and the issues that concern you the most. Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. You are not alone. I believe that you can have power and control over your own life. I look forward to collaborating with you to create the change that you are seeking. Please contact me today for a free consultation and a good faith estimate of cost. If the courts or your employer sent you to anger management, my team offers a court-ordered anger management program.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Neil Doherty, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fef42bc-8d5f-4ad3-b225-73cefda91c32/3/320x400.jpeg)
Neil Doherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705 (Online Only)
I provide compassionate, effective treatment related to parenting, including attachment & adoption issues.
I love the quote "life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it". Helping clients heal and go from maladaptive coping to healthy adaptive behavior is extremely gratifying for me. I have had the privilege of working as a Licensed Therapist for the past 23 years providing therapy to individuals and families in California. I have earned the distinction of expert witness in California courts. Let me provide you the support & tools needed to heal & get your life back on track. These can be stressful times; remember you don't need to do this alone, support is here for you and your family.
I provide compassionate, effective treatment related to parenting, including attachment & adoption issues.
I love the quote "life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it". Helping clients heal and go from maladaptive coping to healthy adaptive behavior is extremely gratifying for me. I have had the privilege of working as a Licensed Therapist for the past 23 years providing therapy to individuals and families in California. I have earned the distinction of expert witness in California courts. Let me provide you the support & tools needed to heal & get your life back on track. These can be stressful times; remember you don't need to do this alone, support is here for you and your family.
![Photo of Sandrah Susan Henry, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4624e88c-a058-4912-8918-ee62300211b4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandrah Susan Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have over 40 years of experience helping people face challenges in their lives including loss, adoption related issues, addiction, relationships/couples, life threatening illness, chronic pain, anxiety, mood and bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, divorce, and other life transitions. I am a warm and caring therapist who is also able to be direct when needed. From the moment you enter my office I do all I can to provide a safe and comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively with whatever issues you are facing in your life today. You will always be treated with respect and compassion throughout our work together.
I have over 40 years of experience helping people face challenges in their lives including loss, adoption related issues, addiction, relationships/couples, life threatening illness, chronic pain, anxiety, mood and bipolar disorder, PTSD, complex trauma, divorce, and other life transitions. I am a warm and caring therapist who is also able to be direct when needed. From the moment you enter my office I do all I can to provide a safe and comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively with whatever issues you are facing in your life today. You will always be treated with respect and compassion throughout our work together.
![Photo of Katie Nerelli, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20234e44-ed66-46fa-9b2b-f3e678941639/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive training in Child Parent Psychotherapy and Adoption Competency (TAC) that offer support and psychoeducation in providing conscious parenting.
I offer holistic psychotherapy to support body, mind and spirit in personal growth and well-being. My practice specializes in treating children, adolescents and families with anxiety, depression, struggles within relationships, confidence, and communication. I use an integrated approach including relational, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and trauma informed techniques. I provide family therapy with the goal of developing intimate, safe, and healthy relationships.
I have extensive training in Child Parent Psychotherapy and Adoption Competency (TAC) that offer support and psychoeducation in providing conscious parenting.
I offer holistic psychotherapy to support body, mind and spirit in personal growth and well-being. My practice specializes in treating children, adolescents and families with anxiety, depression, struggles within relationships, confidence, and communication. I use an integrated approach including relational, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness, and trauma informed techniques. I provide family therapy with the goal of developing intimate, safe, and healthy relationships.
![Photo of Heather Mahelia Aller-Stamps - Aller Counseling & Consulting Inc. , MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45c3db78-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aller Counseling & Consulting Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661
Our areas of specialty are trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, women issues, adoption, emotional dysregulation, suicide and self harm prevention.
Aller Counseling has been supporting individuals, teens, families and couples for over 20 years. We have a group of highly skilled therapists who offer various evidenced based treatment options. Each provider will tailor services to the client. The providers all have specialized training in dealing with suicide, self harm, and family conflicts. We believe that we can be the supports needed to help adults, children and teens enjoy the life they are living.
Our areas of specialty are trauma, grief and loss, relationship issues, women issues, adoption, emotional dysregulation, suicide and self harm prevention.
Aller Counseling has been supporting individuals, teens, families and couples for over 20 years. We have a group of highly skilled therapists who offer various evidenced based treatment options. Each provider will tailor services to the client. The providers all have specialized training in dealing with suicide, self harm, and family conflicts. We believe that we can be the supports needed to help adults, children and teens enjoy the life they are living.
![Photo of Kyla M Ramirez, MA, MS, ACSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5a6e418-e6d0-4606-a2ca-0f975afb934a/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kyla M Ramirez
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MA, MS, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95814
I have worked in the field of child-welfare for over 10 years, and have experience in working with juvenile justice, child welfare, adoption and the systems of care.
Life can be incredibly difficult at times and can feel overwhelming. It is my goal to empower my clients to believe in themselves, inspire change, and to allow space for self-love. When feelings of depression and anxiety are barriers to achieving your goals, leaving you feeling unworthy of happiness, and effecting your relationships, I am here to assist you in cultivating a sense of purpose and confidence. I want to help my clients set goals for their future, find their happiness, and thrive. I am here to provide a space for you to be you- your authentic self without judgement.
I have worked in the field of child-welfare for over 10 years, and have experience in working with juvenile justice, child welfare, adoption and the systems of care.
Life can be incredibly difficult at times and can feel overwhelming. It is my goal to empower my clients to believe in themselves, inspire change, and to allow space for self-love. When feelings of depression and anxiety are barriers to achieving your goals, leaving you feeling unworthy of happiness, and effecting your relationships, I am here to assist you in cultivating a sense of purpose and confidence. I want to help my clients set goals for their future, find their happiness, and thrive. I am here to provide a space for you to be you- your authentic self without judgement.
![Photo of Jt Tomy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a3df027-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals, couples and families of diverse backgrounds, and have advanced training and experience in parenting and adoption issues.
Life can give us challenges that can feel overwhelming. Reaching out for help can be the most difficult step. If you are struggling, I can help. My name is JT Tomy and I work with individuals, couples and families to promote healing, positive change and personal growth. I provide a nonjudgmental, warm, caring, and safe atmosphere combined with a kind, compassionate and direct approach. I can help you address challenges, manage difficult emotions and make lasting changes in your life and relationships. My goal is to help you find your path through the difficulties life can bring and toward a more fulfilling life.
I work with individuals, couples and families of diverse backgrounds, and have advanced training and experience in parenting and adoption issues.
Life can give us challenges that can feel overwhelming. Reaching out for help can be the most difficult step. If you are struggling, I can help. My name is JT Tomy and I work with individuals, couples and families to promote healing, positive change and personal growth. I provide a nonjudgmental, warm, caring, and safe atmosphere combined with a kind, compassionate and direct approach. I can help you address challenges, manage difficult emotions and make lasting changes in your life and relationships. My goal is to help you find your path through the difficulties life can bring and toward a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Laura Crutchfield, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56273080-235a-4023-8ae9-36d19fcb1f6b/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialty areas are infertility, adoption, surrogacy, and postpartum.
Hello. I'm Laura. I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1999. It never ceases to amaze me how resilient people are when faced with difficult situations and times and I cherish being part of finding skills and strengths to reconnect them to their best selves. I seek to discover what therapeutic approach works best for you. I use Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential, Client-Centered, and a variety of strategies to help gain a greater understanding of self and others that leads to greater satisfaction in and with life.
My specialty areas are infertility, adoption, surrogacy, and postpartum.
Hello. I'm Laura. I've been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1999. It never ceases to amaze me how resilient people are when faced with difficult situations and times and I cherish being part of finding skills and strengths to reconnect them to their best selves. I seek to discover what therapeutic approach works best for you. I use Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral, Existential, Client-Centered, and a variety of strategies to help gain a greater understanding of self and others that leads to greater satisfaction in and with life.
![Photo of Judy Foddrill, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b1d2a47-8e3a-41d5-b39e-4d7b74646de4/1/320x400.jpeg)
The process of finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I am here to provide an open, warm, and genuine environment where you can feel safe and find peace. My passion is helping others. Based on my education and life experiences I believe working through our struggles provides an opportunity for a more satisfying and fulfilling life. My experience includes work in several areas including depression, anxiety, foster/ adoption support, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
The process of finding a therapist can be overwhelming. I am here to provide an open, warm, and genuine environment where you can feel safe and find peace. My passion is helping others. Based on my education and life experiences I believe working through our struggles provides an opportunity for a more satisfying and fulfilling life. My experience includes work in several areas including depression, anxiety, foster/ adoption support, bipolar disorder, and life transitions.
![Photo of Sara Mozayeny Saatchi - Dr. Sara Saatchi, MA, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41705595-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I treat anxiety, depression, behavior issues, bullying, social skill development, parenting issues/co-parenting, separation/divorce, trauma, loss, postpartum issues, bonding/attachment, adoption, behavior problems at school and at home, professional and personal relationship problems, I also provide consultation to schools on behalf of a child when needed.
I provide psychotherapy for young children as well as adults. In my work with children, the goals is to strengthen the parent-child attachment as well as treat symptoms such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and other childhood conditions. In my work with adults, I provide a compassionate and down-to-earth approach that is relatable along with effective interventions to support clients to resolve areas in their life they are feeling stuck and unhappy.
I treat anxiety, depression, behavior issues, bullying, social skill development, parenting issues/co-parenting, separation/divorce, trauma, loss, postpartum issues, bonding/attachment, adoption, behavior problems at school and at home, professional and personal relationship problems, I also provide consultation to schools on behalf of a child when needed.
I provide psychotherapy for young children as well as adults. In my work with children, the goals is to strengthen the parent-child attachment as well as treat symptoms such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and other childhood conditions. In my work with adults, I provide a compassionate and down-to-earth approach that is relatable along with effective interventions to support clients to resolve areas in their life they are feeling stuck and unhappy.
![Photo of Nathan Greene, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48578775-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish-speaking) licensed clinical psychologist who provides psychotherapy services to adults, children, adolescents families. I support clients in fostering resilience and in building more meaningful, connected relationships. In therapy, I take a supportive, curious, nonjudgemental stance. My clients struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, loss, adoption, psychological trauma, childhood development, parenting, and everyday stressors.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish-speaking) licensed clinical psychologist who provides psychotherapy services to adults, children, adolescents families. I support clients in fostering resilience and in building more meaningful, connected relationships. In therapy, I take a supportive, curious, nonjudgemental stance. My clients struggle with issues related to depression, anxiety, loss, adoption, psychological trauma, childhood development, parenting, and everyday stressors.
![Photo of Judy Goldman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2e84534e-df2b-4b10-bee4-7a082a082bf2/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I am Judy Goldman a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California with over 25 years’ experience in the mental health field. I specialize in life transitions which include loss, grief, adoption, families, children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety. Loss is not always obvious and can show up in so many aspects of our life. My approach to therapy is eclectic, incorporating elements of person-centered allowing the client to take more the lead in their sessions and in the process, to find their own solutions.
Hi, I am Judy Goldman a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California with over 25 years’ experience in the mental health field. I specialize in life transitions which include loss, grief, adoption, families, children, adolescents, and adults presenting with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety. Loss is not always obvious and can show up in so many aspects of our life. My approach to therapy is eclectic, incorporating elements of person-centered allowing the client to take more the lead in their sessions and in the process, to find their own solutions.
![Photo of Laura J Cabanski Dunning, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d7ee1a6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience in the areas of infertility, adoption, and multi-racial families.
Are you anxious? Troubled? Stuck? I know how difficult it is to enjoy life when you feel trapped by stressful thoughts, feelings, circumstances, relationships. I work creatively with you as you work through difficulties and find new energy and inspiration in your life. We will work together to decrease your current distress as quickly as possible, while helping you to gain deeper insight and move forward positively in your life. I'll tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your specific needs, utilizing a variety of strategies such as hypnosis, EMDR, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), stress management, relaxation, CBT.
I have experience in the areas of infertility, adoption, and multi-racial families.
Are you anxious? Troubled? Stuck? I know how difficult it is to enjoy life when you feel trapped by stressful thoughts, feelings, circumstances, relationships. I work creatively with you as you work through difficulties and find new energy and inspiration in your life. We will work together to decrease your current distress as quickly as possible, while helping you to gain deeper insight and move forward positively in your life. I'll tailor my therapeutic approach to meet your specific needs, utilizing a variety of strategies such as hypnosis, EMDR, mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), stress management, relaxation, CBT.
![Photo of Shawna Cobabe - Shawna Cobabe, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caf328e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shawna Cobabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 (Online Only)
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
I have worked with children, families, individuals and couples in many different capacities before finding my calling as a therapist. I have specialized training in couples and marriage counseling, family counseling, PTSD/trauma, adoption and foster care, anxiety and depression, and other mental illness, life changes, grief and loss. I also work with adolescents who are struggling in school or with behavior problems, defiance, and depression and anxiety. I work with couples and families for a variety of reasons. I can help you too.
![Photo of Christina Sloane (Trimble), MS, LMFT, CHC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8d96ee8-fc56-4361-a029-1e820c28b28d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Sloane (Trimble)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CHC
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include managing anxiety and depression, couples therapy, adolescent behavior problems, self-harm, ADHD and adoption.
Late afternoon/evening appointments available. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children. Making the decision to come to therapy can be a hard one. Deciding on a therapist that is right for you can be even harder. I am happy to talk with you on the phone or have you come by my office so we can meet. It's important that you feel comfortable I am a good fit for you. I have been working for over 20 years with individuals, couples, children, adolescence and families.
My specialties include managing anxiety and depression, couples therapy, adolescent behavior problems, self-harm, ADHD and adoption.
Late afternoon/evening appointments available. I work with individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children. Making the decision to come to therapy can be a hard one. Deciding on a therapist that is right for you can be even harder. I am happy to talk with you on the phone or have you come by my office so we can meet. It's important that you feel comfortable I am a good fit for you. I have been working for over 20 years with individuals, couples, children, adolescence and families.
![Photo of Tracy Birkinbine, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09cfd434-b299-475a-9a50-3ec3c0bbfac2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers non-judgmental, compassionate, and safe counseling to adolescents and adults. I know it is hard to decide to seek out counseling, so I am sensitive to the difficulty it is opening up to someone new. I specialize in assisting individuals dealing with life changes, grief and loss, career changes, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and understanding the wide range of emotions facing infertility and adoption. I aim to be an interactive, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapist.
Hi! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who offers non-judgmental, compassionate, and safe counseling to adolescents and adults. I know it is hard to decide to seek out counseling, so I am sensitive to the difficulty it is opening up to someone new. I specialize in assisting individuals dealing with life changes, grief and loss, career changes, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and understanding the wide range of emotions facing infertility and adoption. I aim to be an interactive, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapist.
![Photo of Nicki Bywater, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88c6c4f7-d481-448c-bdca-f52876d51cab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! I'm Nicki Bywater, LMFT 39487 (CA). I work with adults and older teens. I tailor my approach toward what works best for you! I'd be happy to work with you in online therapy in the near future. I enjoy working with all types of ages and genders, both male, female, LGBTQI, and Veterans. I prefer ages 13-Seniors and usually work with individuals and include caregivers when treating minors. I have spent over twenty years treating anxiety, depression, trauma, adoption and foster care, grief and loss, relationship, and gender issues.
Welcome! I'm Nicki Bywater, LMFT 39487 (CA). I work with adults and older teens. I tailor my approach toward what works best for you! I'd be happy to work with you in online therapy in the near future. I enjoy working with all types of ages and genders, both male, female, LGBTQI, and Veterans. I prefer ages 13-Seniors and usually work with individuals and include caregivers when treating minors. I have spent over twenty years treating anxiety, depression, trauma, adoption and foster care, grief and loss, relationship, and gender issues.
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Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Valley Springs
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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.