Adoption Therapists in Vista, CA

Photo of Chara M Ward, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chara M Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
I provide individual counseling for a range of issues, including trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, stress management, adoption-related issues, relationships, and adjustments and transitions.
There are times in life when we reach a point in which positive change needs to occur. Perhaps you've been dealing with the same issue for a long time, or maybe new challenges have arisen that you need help navigating. If any of this applies to you or your child/teen, or if you're simply seeking to reach some desired goals, I hope that you will consider contacting me.
I provide individual counseling for a range of issues, including trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, stress management, adoption-related issues, relationships, and adjustments and transitions.
There are times in life when we reach a point in which positive change needs to occur. Perhaps you've been dealing with the same issue for a long time, or maybe new challenges have arisen that you need help navigating. If any of this applies to you or your child/teen, or if you're simply seeking to reach some desired goals, I hope that you will consider contacting me.
(760) 821-8050 View (760) 821-8050
Photo of Uchechukwu Alozie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Uchechukwu Alozie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
My name is Uchechi Alozie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is seeing my client within their environment and not just the issues they are presenting. My approach is trying to aid my clients holistically. I have worked with family units for more than 10 years. And have worked with individuals with chronic mental illness for 6 years. My goal is to help clients by determining what is influencing and impacting the client in their environment rather than looking just at the presenting issues.
My name is Uchechi Alozie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is seeing my client within their environment and not just the issues they are presenting. My approach is trying to aid my clients holistically. I have worked with family units for more than 10 years. And have worked with individuals with chronic mental illness for 6 years. My goal is to help clients by determining what is influencing and impacting the client in their environment rather than looking just at the presenting issues.
(760) 823-8366 View (760) 823-8366
Photo of Susan Trueblood, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Trueblood
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
I work with clients seeking to restore connection and balance their lives. Therapy can help if you are at the end of your rope or simply want to learn how to do something different to connect to others. I work with the underlying issues such as anxiety or depression that can block authentic connection. I bring a gentle, holistic approach to making small changes that can create healthier relationships. I provide support and structure to each of my clients looking for ways to live their lives with freedom to be who they want to be.
I work with clients seeking to restore connection and balance their lives. Therapy can help if you are at the end of your rope or simply want to learn how to do something different to connect to others. I work with the underlying issues such as anxiety or depression that can block authentic connection. I bring a gentle, holistic approach to making small changes that can create healthier relationships. I provide support and structure to each of my clients looking for ways to live their lives with freedom to be who they want to be.
(760) 230-5951 View (760) 230-5951
Photo of Personal Evolution Psychotherapy - Soojin Poole, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy - Soojin Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
Is excessive worry or sadness limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a life worth living? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, panic, excessive worry & depression is our primary focus. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, skills & reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Is excessive worry or sadness limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a life worth living? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, panic, excessive worry & depression is our primary focus. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. By using proven therapy methods (We are Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, skills & reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Esther Kang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esther Kang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
My name is Esther Kang. I'm a licensed clinical social worker. I seek to create a safe, caring, and supportive environment to support you through your journey of healing. I think it's important to work collaboratively to reduce distress, and emotional pain related to issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship concerns. I primarily use motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychotherapy modalities. I value person-centered and strength-based care.
My name is Esther Kang. I'm a licensed clinical social worker. I seek to create a safe, caring, and supportive environment to support you through your journey of healing. I think it's important to work collaboratively to reduce distress, and emotional pain related to issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship concerns. I primarily use motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychotherapy modalities. I value person-centered and strength-based care.
(760) 417-6018 View (760) 417-6018
Photo of Kendra Claire Wilhelm, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kendra Claire Wilhelm
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
(619) 367-8413 View (619) 367-8413
Photo of Sue Boyd - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Boyd - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92084
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. Visit Us at www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Photo of Nai Saechao, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nai Saechao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
Hi there, my name is Nai Saechao, and I am a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about supporting all my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives. My approach is client centered. I will meet you with empathy, open-mindedness, and unconditional positive regard. I believe in working collaboratively to identify treatment priorities and to create a safe space for dialogue. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for young adults and persons of various generational groups who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, adjustments, and social pressures.
Hi there, my name is Nai Saechao, and I am a licensed clinical social worker who is passionate about supporting all my clients through challenges to experience healing and growth in their lives. My approach is client centered. I will meet you with empathy, open-mindedness, and unconditional positive regard. I believe in working collaboratively to identify treatment priorities and to create a safe space for dialogue. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for young adults and persons of various generational groups who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions, adjustments, and social pressures.
(510) 405-5452 View (510) 405-5452
Photo of Steven T Griggs, PhD, Psychologist
Steven T Griggs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
I'm an informal, low-keyed warm fuzzy type. I deal directly with problems, using CBT, emphasizing support/non-judgment. I've completed 15 ebooks. The subjects are Assertiveness, How To Change Children's Behavior (Quickly), How to Assess and Treat ADHD (Children and Adults), Self Esteem, Why Relationships Fail, How to diagnose and Treat Anxiety, Anger Management, Types I and II,, Kids and Divorce, Child Visitation and Self-Esteem, How To Change Teenagers Behavior, The Psychology of Procrastination, The Psychology of Guilt, The Psychology of Forgiveness and Weight Loss (Free), The Psychology of All Addictions and How to Diagnose and Treat Mood Disorders.
I'm an informal, low-keyed warm fuzzy type. I deal directly with problems, using CBT, emphasizing support/non-judgment. I've completed 15 ebooks. The subjects are Assertiveness, How To Change Children's Behavior (Quickly), How to Assess and Treat ADHD (Children and Adults), Self Esteem, Why Relationships Fail, How to diagnose and Treat Anxiety, Anger Management, Types I and II,, Kids and Divorce, Child Visitation and Self-Esteem, How To Change Teenagers Behavior, The Psychology of Procrastination, The Psychology of Guilt, The Psychology of Forgiveness and Weight Loss (Free), The Psychology of All Addictions and How to Diagnose and Treat Mood Disorders.
(760) 746-8355 View (760) 746-8355
Photo of Ashley Azin, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Azin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
You are here because you are hurting and want to heal. Healing is possible and you deserve love and acceptance for just being you- your full authentic self. I have been treating anxiety, depression, identity, codependency, eating disorders, low self esteem and relationships issues in children, teens and adults since 2007. My therapeutic style is often more directive, as I see myself as a part of your therapeutic process-not a quiet observer. I use a balance of cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and exploring how your childhood shaped your current thoughts and behaviors.
You are here because you are hurting and want to heal. Healing is possible and you deserve love and acceptance for just being you- your full authentic self. I have been treating anxiety, depression, identity, codependency, eating disorders, low self esteem and relationships issues in children, teens and adults since 2007. My therapeutic style is often more directive, as I see myself as a part of your therapeutic process-not a quiet observer. I use a balance of cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and exploring how your childhood shaped your current thoughts and behaviors.
(858) 386-7502 View (858) 386-7502
Photo of Jennifer Hill - Healing Hearts Counseling Center, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Healing Hearts Counseling Center
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
Our overall mission is to promote behavioral health and wellness for our clients to obtain a high quality of life within themselves, their family, and their community. We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that include assessment, short-term solution focused interventions, consultation with other providers, and crisis intervention. If you are feeling stuck, stressed from life circumstances, or having trouble adjusting to new transitions, then please contact us. We are here for you!
Our overall mission is to promote behavioral health and wellness for our clients to obtain a high quality of life within themselves, their family, and their community. We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that include assessment, short-term solution focused interventions, consultation with other providers, and crisis intervention. If you are feeling stuck, stressed from life circumstances, or having trouble adjusting to new transitions, then please contact us. We are here for you!
(760) 648-4057 View (760) 648-4057
Photo of Trish Eileen Vernazza, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trish Eileen Vernazza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
Trish Vernazza, M.A. is an experienced, caring professional who can assist you in achieving a fully integrated life by focusing on your strengths and potential. Achieving a healthy and positive balance in our lives is the key to understanding our own mental, emotional, spiritual, physical health along with personal relationships. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, confidential environment while assisting you to experience, identify and understand the personal barriers which are getting in your way. Working with many clients of many ethnic and culture backgrounds and alternative lifestyles I provide a environment that helps develop personal insight.
Trish Vernazza, M.A. is an experienced, caring professional who can assist you in achieving a fully integrated life by focusing on your strengths and potential. Achieving a healthy and positive balance in our lives is the key to understanding our own mental, emotional, spiritual, physical health along with personal relationships. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, confidential environment while assisting you to experience, identify and understand the personal barriers which are getting in your way. Working with many clients of many ethnic and culture backgrounds and alternative lifestyles I provide a environment that helps develop personal insight.
(760) 684-8302 View (760) 684-8302
Photo of Alex Gallegos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Gallegos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
Hello, my name is Alex Gallegos and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist (Lic. 101393) in California. I have been providing treatment for 14 years in mental health. I have provided therapy for adults, children, families, couples, and support groups. Some of the areas related to mental health that I have addressed are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, and parenting problems, and I work with fathers struggling to parent their children as a result of historical trauma.
Hello, my name is Alex Gallegos and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist (Lic. 101393) in California. I have been providing treatment for 14 years in mental health. I have provided therapy for adults, children, families, couples, and support groups. Some of the areas related to mental health that I have addressed are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, and parenting problems, and I work with fathers struggling to parent their children as a result of historical trauma.
(415) 849-7926 View (415) 849-7926
Photo of Kaitlyn Nelson, LCSW, ACP-EFT, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlyn Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACP-EFT, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Carlsbad based Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about empowering others to find their inner peace and self-worth. I describe my therapeutic style as warm, grounding, compassionate. My focus is on healing, processing, and building resilience with the intention to help you feel more confident about your future. My goal is to support you through symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief / loss, codependency, and post-traumatic stress. I work with preteens, teens, and adults who are committed to exploring their inner world to learn more about themselves and how they show up in their relationships with others.
I am a Carlsbad based Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about empowering others to find their inner peace and self-worth. I describe my therapeutic style as warm, grounding, compassionate. My focus is on healing, processing, and building resilience with the intention to help you feel more confident about your future. My goal is to support you through symptoms of anxiety, depression, grief / loss, codependency, and post-traumatic stress. I work with preteens, teens, and adults who are committed to exploring their inner world to learn more about themselves and how they show up in their relationships with others.
(442) 219-8087 View (442) 219-8087
Photo of Elizabeth (Betsy) Gerbert, LPCC
Elizabeth (Betsy) Gerbert
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) who graduated with an M.S. in clinical counseling from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. I have been practicing therapy for the past 15 years specializing in both individual and family therapy. I have worked with children, tweens, adolescents, and adults. My approach to therapy is tailored to you and/or your children’s needs. I approach therapy using concepts from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), a family systems approach, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based skills.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC) who graduated with an M.S. in clinical counseling from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, PA. I have been practicing therapy for the past 15 years specializing in both individual and family therapy. I have worked with children, tweens, adolescents, and adults. My approach to therapy is tailored to you and/or your children’s needs. I approach therapy using concepts from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), a family systems approach, trauma-informed care, and mindfulness-based skills.
(916) 237-8168 View (916) 237-8168
Photo of Elena Manucharyan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elena Manucharyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
My name is Elena Manucharyan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Fresno, California and work with clients via telehealth. I have experience working with adolescents and foster youth with high needs and specialize in anxiety, trauma, stress, and depressive disorders, using Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy to help my clients process their life events and progress forward. I have found that my approach and style is a good fit for youth and adults who may be dealing with challenges of life and social pressures or have experienced criticism or disapproval for choices made.
My name is Elena Manucharyan and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Fresno, California and work with clients via telehealth. I have experience working with adolescents and foster youth with high needs and specialize in anxiety, trauma, stress, and depressive disorders, using Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy to help my clients process their life events and progress forward. I have found that my approach and style is a good fit for youth and adults who may be dealing with challenges of life and social pressures or have experienced criticism or disapproval for choices made.
(626) 667-2858 View (626) 667-2858
Photo of Brandy Walker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandy Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084
I am an LCSW in the state of California and Georgia. I have been in the field for over 15 years. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with a wide range of clients such as LGBTQ, depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, physical trauma, emotional abuse, relationship problems, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, parenting problems, anger management, and the like.
I am an LCSW in the state of California and Georgia. I have been in the field for over 15 years. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with a wide range of clients such as LGBTQ, depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, physical trauma, emotional abuse, relationship problems, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, parenting problems, anger management, and the like.
(661) 228-8121 View (661) 228-8121
Photo of Heather Marriatori, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Heather Marriatori
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
I'm a licensed Psychologist in CA (PSY31034) and MN who believes each person has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I'm MAP-Informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive.
I'm a licensed Psychologist in CA (PSY31034) and MN who believes each person has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I'm MAP-Informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive.
(619) 648-3167 View (619) 648-3167

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Erb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Erb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oceanside, CA 92056
My name is Melissa Erb, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and adolescents specializing in managing anxiety, depression and life changes. I also specialize in the area of adoption and foster care. By using various treatment modalities such as Mindfulness Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, this helps in meeting my clients "where they are at." This also creates an approach for clients to begin at the pace they feel comfortable with.
My name is Melissa Erb, and I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in San Diego, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and adolescents specializing in managing anxiety, depression and life changes. I also specialize in the area of adoption and foster care. By using various treatment modalities such as Mindfulness Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, this helps in meeting my clients "where they are at." This also creates an approach for clients to begin at the pace they feel comfortable with.
(657) 571-1145 View (657) 571-1145
Photo of Michelle North - True North Therapy + Workshops, MA, LMFT, CEAP, RYT-200, Marriage & Family Therapist
True North Therapy + Workshops
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEAP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oceanside, CA 92056  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have completed the coursework for adoption through the Deparment of Health and Human Services.
Your present circumstances don't determine where you go; they merely determine where you start. -Nido Qubein Anxiety, depression, grief and loss and a multitude of relational problems may be present during different times in our lives. As a licensed, marriage and family therapist I have the ability to meet you wherever you are in the life span process. As a certified expressive arts practitioner, I can integrate these tools on your journey. I am also an authorized provider for, free counseling for problem gambling and affected individuals.
I have completed the coursework for adoption through the Deparment of Health and Human Services.
Your present circumstances don't determine where you go; they merely determine where you start. -Nido Qubein Anxiety, depression, grief and loss and a multitude of relational problems may be present during different times in our lives. As a licensed, marriage and family therapist I have the ability to meet you wherever you are in the life span process. As a certified expressive arts practitioner, I can integrate these tools on your journey. I am also an authorized provider for, free counseling for problem gambling and affected individuals.
(951) 384-2523 View (951) 384-2523
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.