Adoption Therapists in Venice, CA

Photo of Amber Lopez Molnar, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amber Lopez Molnar
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
Starting a family is one of the most incredible yet nerve racking transitions one can go through. I specialize in Infertility, Maternal Mental Health as well as overall life transitions. The process of infertility treatments alone can leave a person feeling vulnerable, heartbroken and unsure about the future. Some of the core issues that I treat include; Postpartum Depression/Anxiety/OCD, Grief, and the transition of your new identify as a mother. In addition I enjoy working with the LGBTQ community as well as adoption and families of multiples.
Starting a family is one of the most incredible yet nerve racking transitions one can go through. I specialize in Infertility, Maternal Mental Health as well as overall life transitions. The process of infertility treatments alone can leave a person feeling vulnerable, heartbroken and unsure about the future. Some of the core issues that I treat include; Postpartum Depression/Anxiety/OCD, Grief, and the transition of your new identify as a mother. In addition I enjoy working with the LGBTQ community as well as adoption and families of multiples.
(310) 340-1927 View (310) 340-1927
Photo of Johanna Jenkins, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johanna Jenkins Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
The psychotherapy work I offer creates a sacred relationship, built on the deep recognition of our essential humanness. The issues that bring you to therapy will guide our work, and with clarity, compassion, and tools gathered from 30 years in practice, I will become your companion on the healing journey. Each of us has within us the wisdom to resolve our issues. My purpose is to assist you in finding that wisdom, bringing your own loving to any places of pain within you, and in seeing clearly and stepping into your life's opportunities.
The psychotherapy work I offer creates a sacred relationship, built on the deep recognition of our essential humanness. The issues that bring you to therapy will guide our work, and with clarity, compassion, and tools gathered from 30 years in practice, I will become your companion on the healing journey. Each of us has within us the wisdom to resolve our issues. My purpose is to assist you in finding that wisdom, bringing your own loving to any places of pain within you, and in seeing clearly and stepping into your life's opportunities.
(310) 807-2830 View (310) 807-2830
Photo of Jennifer Ollestad, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Ollestad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Santa Monica and Ojai. For the past twenty + years I have been working as a therapist with adolescents, adults and families. I am also a clinical supervisor to interns in my private practice, and I provide psychotherapy for therapists in training. My work as a therapist focuses on relationships of all kinds. For my clients, I hope to be an agent of positive change by working with them towards an understanding of the dynamics that keep them from moving forward and then by mentoring them to co-create bigger lives for themselves.
I am a licensed MFT with offices in Santa Monica and Ojai. For the past twenty + years I have been working as a therapist with adolescents, adults and families. I am also a clinical supervisor to interns in my private practice, and I provide psychotherapy for therapists in training. My work as a therapist focuses on relationships of all kinds. For my clients, I hope to be an agent of positive change by working with them towards an understanding of the dynamics that keep them from moving forward and then by mentoring them to co-create bigger lives for themselves.
(424) 570-3246 View (424) 570-3246
Photo of Britt Eden Morrissey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Britt Eden Morrissey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
I am a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience providing quality mental health care for clients of all ages. Are you experiencing symptoms of depression such as feelings of hopelessness, tearfulness, or an inability to enjoy daily life? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, worry, or intermittent panic attacks? Do you have a history of trauma that haunts your dreams and affects your relationships? Has your child experienced trauma that is impacting his or her mood or school performance? Has family stress taken a toll on your children, your marriage, or yourself?
I am a psychotherapist with nearly 20 years of experience providing quality mental health care for clients of all ages. Are you experiencing symptoms of depression such as feelings of hopelessness, tearfulness, or an inability to enjoy daily life? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, worry, or intermittent panic attacks? Do you have a history of trauma that haunts your dreams and affects your relationships? Has your child experienced trauma that is impacting his or her mood or school performance? Has family stress taken a toll on your children, your marriage, or yourself?
(424) 375-7957 View (424) 375-7957
Photo of Dawn Pesso, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn Pesso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291  (Online Only)
Something big is happening. You could even call it a crisis. It can be overwhelming when you're going through a big change in your life or when you feel you are at a crossroads. This can happen because you realize a relationship that you're in just isn't good for you, or worse, that it's toxic. This can also happen when you're considering a career change, or choosing a career for the first time? Big decisions can leave you feeling confused, stuck/frustrated, fearful, sad, angry, lonely, and more.
Something big is happening. You could even call it a crisis. It can be overwhelming when you're going through a big change in your life or when you feel you are at a crossroads. This can happen because you realize a relationship that you're in just isn't good for you, or worse, that it's toxic. This can also happen when you're considering a career change, or choosing a career for the first time? Big decisions can leave you feeling confused, stuck/frustrated, fearful, sad, angry, lonely, and more.
(310) 484-5943 View (310) 484-5943
Photo of Judi Bloom - Dr. Judi Bloom, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Judi Bloom
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291  (Online Only)
I help individuals and couples change their habits, patterns, and perspective in order to lead a more satisfying life. In addition to treating depression, anxiety, and addiction, I specialize in working with people facing midlife transitions--divorce, parenting challenges, career change, empty nest, grief. I don't just sit and listen; I actively engage you in the therapeutic process to make the concrete changes you desire in your life.I tailor therapy to the individual rather than "one size fits all", and also offer hypnotherapy. I can also help with issues around sexual harassment or abuse.
I help individuals and couples change their habits, patterns, and perspective in order to lead a more satisfying life. In addition to treating depression, anxiety, and addiction, I specialize in working with people facing midlife transitions--divorce, parenting challenges, career change, empty nest, grief. I don't just sit and listen; I actively engage you in the therapeutic process to make the concrete changes you desire in your life.I tailor therapy to the individual rather than "one size fits all", and also offer hypnotherapy. I can also help with issues around sexual harassment or abuse.
(310) 919-7834 View (310) 919-7834
Photo of Regina Anne Cavanagh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Regina Anne Cavanagh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
Therapy is a wonderful opportunity to explore habituated patterns as well as the stories we tell ourselves. We all have a choice in how we make meaning in our lives, and I believe that with a compassionate exploration of one's inner life comes the ability to find more wonder and joy and connection in our daily life.
Therapy is a wonderful opportunity to explore habituated patterns as well as the stories we tell ourselves. We all have a choice in how we make meaning in our lives, and I believe that with a compassionate exploration of one's inner life comes the ability to find more wonder and joy and connection in our daily life.
(310) 692-7665 View (310) 692-7665
Photo of Deirdre J. Newell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deirdre J. Newell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291  (Online Only)
Therapy can provide a safe space for individuals to explore vulnerable dimensions of oneself and explore meaning in life’s experiences. Therapy with me is rooted in relationship. I understand that value of a trusting, authentic relationship between therapist and client, and I offer insight, support, compassion, and curiosity in a nurturing way that allows clients to examine patterns that both aid or hinder individuals’ potential for wholeness. I work from a depth-oriented, psychodynamic framework, understanding that one’s self is a manifestation of one’s whole life experiences. I provide both short and long term therapy.
Therapy can provide a safe space for individuals to explore vulnerable dimensions of oneself and explore meaning in life’s experiences. Therapy with me is rooted in relationship. I understand that value of a trusting, authentic relationship between therapist and client, and I offer insight, support, compassion, and curiosity in a nurturing way that allows clients to examine patterns that both aid or hinder individuals’ potential for wholeness. I work from a depth-oriented, psychodynamic framework, understanding that one’s self is a manifestation of one’s whole life experiences. I provide both short and long term therapy.
(310) 905-8117 View (310) 905-8117
Photo of Steven Kresha, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Steven Kresha
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
My name is Steven Kresha, and over the past twenty years, it has been an honor to work in the mental health field, walking alongside clients on the healing path. In every stage of life, we encounter circumstances that have the potential to diminish our mental and emotional well-being. The good news is that you already have the resources available to you to grow, heal, and respond well to whatever life may bring your way.
My name is Steven Kresha, and over the past twenty years, it has been an honor to work in the mental health field, walking alongside clients on the healing path. In every stage of life, we encounter circumstances that have the potential to diminish our mental and emotional well-being. The good news is that you already have the resources available to you to grow, heal, and respond well to whatever life may bring your way.
(408) 610-1635 View (408) 610-1635
Photo of Nick Lodato, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nick Lodato
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
I specialize in addiction therapy with a particular expertise in working with adolescents, young adults, and families. My approach is tailored to the unique challenges and dynamics present within these age groups and family systems. I offer an alternative to traditional addiction treatment programs, focusing on understanding the root causes of addiction rather than solely addressing substance use. Through a collaborative and judgment-free therapeutic process, I work with clients to set goals and facilitate a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships
I specialize in addiction therapy with a particular expertise in working with adolescents, young adults, and families. My approach is tailored to the unique challenges and dynamics present within these age groups and family systems. I offer an alternative to traditional addiction treatment programs, focusing on understanding the root causes of addiction rather than solely addressing substance use. Through a collaborative and judgment-free therapeutic process, I work with clients to set goals and facilitate a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships
(424) 306-1159 View (424) 306-1159
Photo of jonathan Herrick - Couple Journeys w/ Plant Medicine & Tantra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Couple Journeys w/ Plant Medicine & Tantra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90292
Take a startling psychological, spiritual quantum leap in your personal and relational life with a braid of psychotherapeutic power tools, meditation, an MDMA journey and profound Tantric practices. Shift from horsepower to rocket power for significant transformation with powerful practices. Take advantage of both ancient and the most advanced spiritual technologies. Obtain deep insight and understanding. Release unproductive patterns, dramatically elevate your love and discover your relationship’s higher purpose. Both Alexandra and I have enjoyed very significant transformations by engaging these practices. And glad to share them.
Take a startling psychological, spiritual quantum leap in your personal and relational life with a braid of psychotherapeutic power tools, meditation, an MDMA journey and profound Tantric practices. Shift from horsepower to rocket power for significant transformation with powerful practices. Take advantage of both ancient and the most advanced spiritual technologies. Obtain deep insight and understanding. Release unproductive patterns, dramatically elevate your love and discover your relationship’s higher purpose. Both Alexandra and I have enjoyed very significant transformations by engaging these practices. And glad to share them.
(415) 326-8256 View (415) 326-8256
Photo of Julie Cima, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Cima
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291  (Online Only)
As solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true worth and lead a life worth celebrating your full potential. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Sometimes we all need some extra help, and often all we need is some extra guidance to help us navigate through life's challenges. Whether the obstacles that you face are temporary setbacks or lifelong issues, together we can find a way to help you face the future with new coping tools and with a stronger sense of self.
As solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true worth and lead a life worth celebrating your full potential. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Sometimes we all need some extra help, and often all we need is some extra guidance to help us navigate through life's challenges. Whether the obstacles that you face are temporary setbacks or lifelong issues, together we can find a way to help you face the future with new coping tools and with a stronger sense of self.
(916) 827-3479 View (916) 827-3479
Photo of Daniela Sylvers Weise, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniela Sylvers Weise
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
I became a therapist because I want to help individuals find their voice and help them to feel understood. I will help you find the words to describe what is happening and together we’ll find what works for you moving forward. I believe you’re doing the best you can and also believe everyone has the capacity for change and growth. With new knowledge and a different approach you can start feeling better. I work with clients’ strengths while also helping them to remove the barriers that are getting in the way to living a fuller and happier life.
I became a therapist because I want to help individuals find their voice and help them to feel understood. I will help you find the words to describe what is happening and together we’ll find what works for you moving forward. I believe you’re doing the best you can and also believe everyone has the capacity for change and growth. With new knowledge and a different approach you can start feeling better. I work with clients’ strengths while also helping them to remove the barriers that are getting in the way to living a fuller and happier life.
(415) 480-3428 View (415) 480-3428
Photo of Alex Pack, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Pack
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
I believe change, growth, and healing are possible when we better understand ourselves and the patterns in our lives. Especially with the state of the world right now, it would make sense if your goals were to feel less anxious, less stressed, more secure, or more connected. Through our collaborative exploration, curiosity, and empathy, I believe we can find opportunities for healing, challenge old patterns that no longer serve you, and develop a greater sense of control over your life.
I believe change, growth, and healing are possible when we better understand ourselves and the patterns in our lives. Especially with the state of the world right now, it would make sense if your goals were to feel less anxious, less stressed, more secure, or more connected. Through our collaborative exploration, curiosity, and empathy, I believe we can find opportunities for healing, challenge old patterns that no longer serve you, and develop a greater sense of control over your life.
(424) 258-5088 View (424) 258-5088
Photo of Caitlin Blue, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caitlin Blue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291  (Online Only)
I am looking to create solid therapeutic alliances to help my clients further their understanding of psychological patterns and unconscious motivations.
I am looking to create solid therapeutic alliances to help my clients further their understanding of psychological patterns and unconscious motivations.
(424) 581-1158 View (424) 581-1158
Photo of Jarred Trusty, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jarred Trusty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291  (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
(424) 358-3495 View (424) 358-3495
Photo of Morgan Kirkpatrick, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Morgan Kirkpatrick
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
Not accepting new clients
I know that the decision to seek out therapy can be difficult and that finding a therapist is just as challenging. That is why I provide clients with a down to earth style that allows them to feel comfortable right away. Sessions are always tailored to meet the unique needs of each client and open communication is maintained throughout the course of therapy to assure their satisfaction.
I know that the decision to seek out therapy can be difficult and that finding a therapist is just as challenging. That is why I provide clients with a down to earth style that allows them to feel comfortable right away. Sessions are always tailored to meet the unique needs of each client and open communication is maintained throughout the course of therapy to assure their satisfaction.
(424) 353-4157 View (424) 353-4157

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jacob Kajiwara, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jacob Kajiwara
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping my clients explore the intersections of adoption, racial/ethnic identity, childhood trauma, confidence, and major life transitions. Throughout life, we continually revisit and re-negotiate our understanding of the experiences that have shaped us. It’s especially hard if you’ve been impacted by unique circumstances such as international/domestic adoption, multi-cultural family, or even just the experience of being a minority in America. I provide a warm and safe space that allows clients to explore their authentic self.
I am passionate about helping my clients explore the intersections of adoption, racial/ethnic identity, childhood trauma, confidence, and major life transitions. Throughout life, we continually revisit and re-negotiate our understanding of the experiences that have shaped us. It’s especially hard if you’ve been impacted by unique circumstances such as international/domestic adoption, multi-cultural family, or even just the experience of being a minority in America. I provide a warm and safe space that allows clients to explore their authentic self.
(818) 600-6992 View (818) 600-6992
Photo of Elaine Barrington, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine Barrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
"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 Maureen Donley, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maureen Donley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Imagine having new tools to deal with difficult feelings and difficult people. Imagine feeling ready and excited about what might come your way. Therapy offers you the opportunity to move forward in your life towards the goals and dreams that are most important to you. Informed by previous careers in theatre and film along with specialized trauma training (both TRM & EMDR) and my experience as an adoptive parent, I am uniquely positioned to engage challenging issues in the creative professions,trauma (both incident specific and developmental) and adoption along with the anxiety and depression that are too often part of making our way through life.
Imagine having new tools to deal with difficult feelings and difficult people. Imagine feeling ready and excited about what might come your way. Therapy offers you the opportunity to move forward in your life towards the goals and dreams that are most important to you. Informed by previous careers in theatre and film along with specialized trauma training (both TRM & EMDR) and my experience as an adoptive parent, I am uniquely positioned to engage challenging issues in the creative professions,trauma (both incident specific and developmental) and adoption along with the anxiety and depression that are too often part of making our way through life.
(424) 781-3267 View (424) 781-3267
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.