Stuart S Riskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90067
I have worked with individuals from young adolescents to the very elderly; with families facing issues of blending, divorce, adoption, childhood illness and domestic violence; to help individuals with stage-of-life struggles; as well as addressing the many kinds of trauma that people face throughout their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for over 25 years. My professional experience as a clinician, supervisor, and educator in both the public and private sectors has equipped me with a unique set of skills, a wealth of knowledge, and clinical expertise to support and facilitate my clients’ personal growth and development.
I have worked with individuals from young adolescents to the very elderly; with families facing issues of blending, divorce, adoption, childhood illness and domestic violence; to help individuals with stage-of-life struggles; as well as addressing the many kinds of trauma that people face throughout their lives.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for over 25 years. My professional experience as a clinician, supervisor, and educator in both the public and private sectors has equipped me with a unique set of skills, a wealth of knowledge, and clinical expertise to support and facilitate my clients’ personal growth and development.
(323) 991-9095 View (323) 991-9095
Photo of Melissa Holub, PhD, Psychologist
Melissa Holub
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94705
I have special knowledge of gender identity issues, adoption and psychoanalysis.
Whether you are just going through a particularly hard time, or have ongoing concerns with work, relationships, identity, or regulating your behavior or emotions, it's just a fact that we all need help sometimes. I've been assisting people with moderate to very serious concerns for over twenty-five years. I love working with a sense of common humanity in order to help my clients better manage their day-to-day lives, address struggles and limitations, as well as experience deeper integration of a sense of Self, relationships and life choices.
I have special knowledge of gender identity issues, adoption and psychoanalysis.
Whether you are just going through a particularly hard time, or have ongoing concerns with work, relationships, identity, or regulating your behavior or emotions, it's just a fact that we all need help sometimes. I've been assisting people with moderate to very serious concerns for over twenty-five years. I love working with a sense of common humanity in order to help my clients better manage their day-to-day lives, address struggles and limitations, as well as experience deeper integration of a sense of Self, relationships and life choices.
(510) 592-4912 View (510) 592-4912
Photo of Sandrah Susan Henry, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
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.
(415) 687-0429 View (415) 687-0429
Photo of Jessica Cowley, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jessica Cowley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
My personal experience as an adoptive parent and former foster parent gives me unique insight into the complexities of adoption, and I am deeply invested in providing compassionate care to folks in the adoption constellation.
I work with adults, children, and couples using a strengths-based approach that helps create insight, foster resilience, and alleviate suffering. I believe that healing happens in relationship, and strive to create a sense of safety in the therapeutic space through warmth, humor, curiosity, and collaboration. I bring an intersectional perspective to therapy, exploring with clients the nuanced interplay between culture, society and mental health. My practice is trauma-informed and honors the profound connection between body and mind, employing somatic techniques to deepen awareness of emotions and facilitate healing.
My personal experience as an adoptive parent and former foster parent gives me unique insight into the complexities of adoption, and I am deeply invested in providing compassionate care to folks in the adoption constellation.
I work with adults, children, and couples using a strengths-based approach that helps create insight, foster resilience, and alleviate suffering. I believe that healing happens in relationship, and strive to create a sense of safety in the therapeutic space through warmth, humor, curiosity, and collaboration. I bring an intersectional perspective to therapy, exploring with clients the nuanced interplay between culture, society and mental health. My practice is trauma-informed and honors the profound connection between body and mind, employing somatic techniques to deepen awareness of emotions and facilitate healing.
(213) 377-3257 View (213) 377-3257
Photo of Heather Abella - Abella Counseling, LLC, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Abella Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Coronado, CA 92118  (Online Only)
) life adjustments/transitions, trauma informed therapy (EMDR), domestic abuse/violence, adoption counseling, family conflict , and troubled parent child relationships, My client age ranges from 14 on up.
With passion and care I help clients navigate emotional obstacles. I treat individuals struggling with personal issues which stop them from reaching their full potential. Understanding emotional boundaries, not owning others issues and accepting the fact that the more true we are to our own truth the happier we are regardless of our circumstances are foundational in my practice. I truly believe in each person's ability to grow and reach for joy and fulfillment.
) life adjustments/transitions, trauma informed therapy (EMDR), domestic abuse/violence, adoption counseling, family conflict , and troubled parent child relationships, My client age ranges from 14 on up.
With passion and care I help clients navigate emotional obstacles. I treat individuals struggling with personal issues which stop them from reaching their full potential. Understanding emotional boundaries, not owning others issues and accepting the fact that the more true we are to our own truth the happier we are regardless of our circumstances are foundational in my practice. I truly believe in each person's ability to grow and reach for joy and fulfillment.
(505) 591-5045 View (505) 591-5045
Photo of Monica Reade-San Jose, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Reade-San Jose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720  (Online Only)
Everyone processes life experiences in many different ways. I help clients uncover, explore and process self-limiting beliefs that impact well-being. I focus on building on a client's strengths and supporting them in uncovering new ways of fostering personal growth and wellness. I have 21+ yrs of experience working with adults, couples, children, adolescents and families with issues ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, chronic illness, phase of life transitions, sports performance, relationship issues, parenting, foster/ adoption, high risk/severely emotionally disturbed children/adolescent's.
Everyone processes life experiences in many different ways. I help clients uncover, explore and process self-limiting beliefs that impact well-being. I focus on building on a client's strengths and supporting them in uncovering new ways of fostering personal growth and wellness. I have 21+ yrs of experience working with adults, couples, children, adolescents and families with issues ranging from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, chronic illness, phase of life transitions, sports performance, relationship issues, parenting, foster/ adoption, high risk/severely emotionally disturbed children/adolescent's.
(562) 280-2017 View (562) 280-2017
Photo of Livia Winnett, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Livia Winnett
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alameda, CA 94501
I work with individuals, couples, and families interested in exploring relationship patterns, effective communication, parenting and attachment, gender identity, teen/pre-teen experience, adoption, and work / life balance.
Welcome. I work with children, adolescents, and adults coping with relational, attachment, and anxiety disorders. In my practice, therapy often entails exploring the impact of early attachment experiences on our views of self and our ability to form close, meaningful relationships throughout life. In our work together, you will be treated with warmth, empathy, and openness. The most important part of our work is the development of a trusting relationship. This relationship creates a thoughtful, safe space to explore your strengths, challenges, and goals. My approach to clinical work is largely relational and psychodynamic.
I work with individuals, couples, and families interested in exploring relationship patterns, effective communication, parenting and attachment, gender identity, teen/pre-teen experience, adoption, and work / life balance.
Welcome. I work with children, adolescents, and adults coping with relational, attachment, and anxiety disorders. In my practice, therapy often entails exploring the impact of early attachment experiences on our views of self and our ability to form close, meaningful relationships throughout life. In our work together, you will be treated with warmth, empathy, and openness. The most important part of our work is the development of a trusting relationship. This relationship creates a thoughtful, safe space to explore your strengths, challenges, and goals. My approach to clinical work is largely relational and psychodynamic.
(510) 240-1972 View (510) 240-1972
Photo of Sarah McCartney, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah McCartney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
Are you a lesbian couple in the process of deciding to become parents? Are you an individual seeking support while you and your partner are thinking about beginning a family? There are unique decisions that you may be currently facing such as, pregnancy or adoption, which partner will become pregnant, and how will both partners feel involved as parents. It is important for you to have a safe space to explore these questions. There are feelings that accompany the decisions that you are making, and partners may feel differently. This sometimes challenges the connection between you.
Are you a lesbian couple in the process of deciding to become parents? Are you an individual seeking support while you and your partner are thinking about beginning a family? There are unique decisions that you may be currently facing such as, pregnancy or adoption, which partner will become pregnant, and how will both partners feel involved as parents. It is important for you to have a safe space to explore these questions. There are feelings that accompany the decisions that you are making, and partners may feel differently. This sometimes challenges the connection between you.
(510) 246-3475 View (510) 246-3475
Photo of Karisa L Barrow, PsyD, Psychologist
Karisa L Barrow
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties: Gender and Sexuality, Foster Care/ Adoption, Parenting Work & Trauma Areas of Focus: Adjustment, Depression & Anxiety, Children with Developmental, Emotional & Behavioral Difficulties, Parenting Consultation & Collaboration, Trauma, Loss, Dying & Bereavement.
I strive to create an authentic connection with my clients so we can develop an effective partnership in which healing, trying on new ways of thinking, and exploring change can happen safely. I believe that the foundation of mutual trust, empathy, and curiosity that I create with my clients will help them build meaningful relationships with others, mend old wounds, and learn more about themselves and how they contribute to their struggles. Helping my clients see themselves through a new lens will help them achieve the growth and fulfillment they want in their lives. Please don't hesitate to call for help.
Specialties: Gender and Sexuality, Foster Care/ Adoption, Parenting Work & Trauma Areas of Focus: Adjustment, Depression & Anxiety, Children with Developmental, Emotional & Behavioral Difficulties, Parenting Consultation & Collaboration, Trauma, Loss, Dying & Bereavement.
I strive to create an authentic connection with my clients so we can develop an effective partnership in which healing, trying on new ways of thinking, and exploring change can happen safely. I believe that the foundation of mutual trust, empathy, and curiosity that I create with my clients will help them build meaningful relationships with others, mend old wounds, and learn more about themselves and how they contribute to their struggles. Helping my clients see themselves through a new lens will help them achieve the growth and fulfillment they want in their lives. Please don't hesitate to call for help.
(510) 962-9394 View (510) 962-9394
Sonia Carbonell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92120
, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorders; and domestic violence, child abuse, divorce, co-parenting and adoption).
I love the work I do, although it involves dealing with people's painful life events and dynamics. I strongly believe in change. I am privileged because daily I witness our human capacity for healing and growth. My ideal client is the one ready to face truth, find hope and strength to change his or her life circumstances. My style, training, and professional experience emphasize understanding culture, working in the context of family and community, completing treatment goals, developing prevention plans and understanding our individual and family histories (short and long term treatment according to family or individual's needs).
, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorders; and domestic violence, child abuse, divorce, co-parenting and adoption).
I love the work I do, although it involves dealing with people's painful life events and dynamics. I strongly believe in change. I am privileged because daily I witness our human capacity for healing and growth. My ideal client is the one ready to face truth, find hope and strength to change his or her life circumstances. My style, training, and professional experience emphasize understanding culture, working in the context of family and community, completing treatment goals, developing prevention plans and understanding our individual and family histories (short and long term treatment according to family or individual's needs).
(619) 320-6296 View (619) 320-6296
Photo of Amanda McDaniel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda McDaniel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
My areas of clinical experience are adoption, grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, premarital/marital counseling, women's issues, divorce, ADHD & OCPD.
Are you struggling with relational issues, grief, loss, a break-up, anxiety, depression or trauma? You don't have to travel the challenges alone. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey, providing soul-care with warmth and a genuine heart. My goal is to help you benefit from your pain, so to speak, and awaken you to other perspectives that might create a more meaningful life & lessen your suffering. God never wastes a hurt!
My areas of clinical experience are adoption, grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, premarital/marital counseling, women's issues, divorce, ADHD & OCPD.
Are you struggling with relational issues, grief, loss, a break-up, anxiety, depression or trauma? You don't have to travel the challenges alone. I promise to be there for you every step of your journey, providing soul-care with warmth and a genuine heart. My goal is to help you benefit from your pain, so to speak, and awaken you to other perspectives that might create a more meaningful life & lessen your suffering. God never wastes a hurt!
(949) 312-4436 View (949) 312-4436
Photo of Keturah McClendon Baker, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keturah McClendon Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90059
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
I have experience in the following: Individual therapy Family Therapy Couples Therapy Group Therapy Adults Infant/Children/Adolescents Grief and Loss Foster Care and Adoption Depression Anxiety PTSD Anger Suicidal Ideation Bipolar Parent-Child Relationships Interpersonal Relationships.
Hello beautiful people. My most treasured skill as a therapist but most importantly as a human is the ability to connect and relate with almost any one no matter your race, gender, culture, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or age. I am learning in practice and in life that no matter how old, young, accomplished or established we become there will always be a natural human yearning we carry to feel like we belong and that we matter to others.
(424) 364-1104 View (424) 364-1104
Photo of Megan Pitsios, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Pitsios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107
I specialize in working with individuals and couples coming into parenthood through postpartum struggles, grief and loss, infertility, foster care and/or adoption, identity issues, or depression and anxiety.
Are you feeling anxious, irritable, or foggy these days? Do you resent your partner or snap at them over little things? The changes that have come with growing a family feel overwhelming, but it’s hard to admit that you aren’t doing ok. Everyone says this is the best time of your life, but you barely recognize yourself. Your body and mind are exhausted, and you feel like you don’t know where to begin. You want to regain balance, focus, and a sense of who you are now beyond just being a parent or trying to become a parent. Let me help you find your way back to you.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples coming into parenthood through postpartum struggles, grief and loss, infertility, foster care and/or adoption, identity issues, or depression and anxiety.
Are you feeling anxious, irritable, or foggy these days? Do you resent your partner or snap at them over little things? The changes that have come with growing a family feel overwhelming, but it’s hard to admit that you aren’t doing ok. Everyone says this is the best time of your life, but you barely recognize yourself. Your body and mind are exhausted, and you feel like you don’t know where to begin. You want to regain balance, focus, and a sense of who you are now beyond just being a parent or trying to become a parent. Let me help you find your way back to you.
(626) 427-6512 View (626) 427-6512
Photo of Michelle Beames, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Beames
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Hi there, I'm Michelle, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Utah. I have been providing therapy services for 5 years and have worked with children, adolescents, and adults. I have been trained and certified in trauma treatment, and my other areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, foster care/ adoption, domestic violence, and sexual abuse. I offer both Christian-based and secular therapy. I am an eclectic therapist and pull from many different modalities including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, and positive psychology therapy approaches.
Hi there, I'm Michelle, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both California and Utah. I have been providing therapy services for 5 years and have worked with children, adolescents, and adults. I have been trained and certified in trauma treatment, and my other areas of expertise are anxiety, depression, foster care/ adoption, domestic violence, and sexual abuse. I offer both Christian-based and secular therapy. I am an eclectic therapist and pull from many different modalities including cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, psychodynamic, acceptance and commitment, and positive psychology therapy approaches.
(707) 347-0337 View (707) 347-0337
Photo of Shawna Cobabe - Shawna Cobabe, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
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.
(925) 329-6259 View (925) 329-6259
Photo of Betina Scott, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betina Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590  (Online Only)
My experience has provided the opportunity to encounter and specialize in a broad range of situations: including depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, life changes, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, trauma, and foster care/ adoption related issues.
Greetings and congratulations on taking the first step towards change. My name is Dr. Betina Scott and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and/or your loved one. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families.
My experience has provided the opportunity to encounter and specialize in a broad range of situations: including depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, life changes, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, trauma, and foster care/ adoption related issues.
Greetings and congratulations on taking the first step towards change. My name is Dr. Betina Scott and I look forward to the opportunity to work with you and/or your loved one. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families.
(951) 463-5582 View (951) 463-5582
Photo of Noah Rothschild, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Noah Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
As an Adoptee, I also work with those healing from adoption.
I am here to help you get unstuck and reclaim your natural state of joy, well-being, purpose, and vitality. "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure (Marianne Williamson)." In our fast-paced world, it's easy to lose touch with ourselves and our sense of well-being. This has led to a rise in depression/anxiety, substance abuse, marital/relationship issues, and other difficulties. I am skilled at alleviating these symptoms and have been successful in working with individuals, couples, children/adolescents, and families of all ages backgrounds.
As an Adoptee, I also work with those healing from adoption.
I am here to help you get unstuck and reclaim your natural state of joy, well-being, purpose, and vitality. "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure (Marianne Williamson)." In our fast-paced world, it's easy to lose touch with ourselves and our sense of well-being. This has led to a rise in depression/anxiety, substance abuse, marital/relationship issues, and other difficulties. I am skilled at alleviating these symptoms and have been successful in working with individuals, couples, children/adolescents, and families of all ages backgrounds.
(310) 801-0995 View (310) 801-0995
Photo of Jennifer Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Jennifer's experience initially began in the field of Foster Care and Adoption.
Jennifer has experience working with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and children presenting with a wide variety of issues. She approaches her clients with a psychodynamic framework to gain understanding and build rapport based on creating a very warm, empathic, collaborative, and safe environment. Additionally, Jennifer integrates several treatment approaches such as CBT, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Solution Focused, and Systems Theory.
Jennifer's experience initially began in the field of Foster Care and Adoption.
Jennifer has experience working with individuals, couples, families, adolescents, and children presenting with a wide variety of issues. She approaches her clients with a psychodynamic framework to gain understanding and build rapport based on creating a very warm, empathic, collaborative, and safe environment. Additionally, Jennifer integrates several treatment approaches such as CBT, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Solution Focused, and Systems Theory.
(949) 647-4998 View (949) 647-4998
Photo of Melissa Rapp, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Rapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I work with individuals and couples to help reduce struggles and find ways to live more fulfilling, gratifying lives. Our relationship is the context in which we work to find where you're stuck, what's getting in your way, and ways to do things differently. My specialty areas include grief and loss, adoption, ADHD, race/class issues, work/life balance, LGBTQ issues, and divorce. I help people manage anxiety and mood problems. I help couples with concerns related to parenting, managing conflict, and addressing needs and expectations. I see communication as the grease that keeps relationships running smoothly, and I help facilitate good communication.
I work with individuals and couples to help reduce struggles and find ways to live more fulfilling, gratifying lives. Our relationship is the context in which we work to find where you're stuck, what's getting in your way, and ways to do things differently. My specialty areas include grief and loss, adoption, ADHD, race/class issues, work/life balance, LGBTQ issues, and divorce. I help people manage anxiety and mood problems. I help couples with concerns related to parenting, managing conflict, and addressing needs and expectations. I see communication as the grease that keeps relationships running smoothly, and I help facilitate good communication.
(510) 822-7911 View (510) 822-7911
Susan Baldasano LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Merced, CA 95340
Counseling can be a rewarding experience. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and children. I have been in private practice and with agencies for foster care and adoption. I love helping & watching people grow in their personal lives and in relationships. Marriages, divorce, blended families, intimacy, & parenting, past abuse issues are also areas of treatment. Pain disorders, grief, anxiety, and depression can have devastating affects on ones life. Getting help in all of these areas can greatly improve one's overall functioning. I believe contentment in life and knowing your life has purpose is of utmost importance.
Counseling can be a rewarding experience. I enjoy working with individuals, families, and children. I have been in private practice and with agencies for foster care and adoption. I love helping & watching people grow in their personal lives and in relationships. Marriages, divorce, blended families, intimacy, & parenting, past abuse issues are also areas of treatment. Pain disorders, grief, anxiety, and depression can have devastating affects on ones life. Getting help in all of these areas can greatly improve one's overall functioning. I believe contentment in life and knowing your life has purpose is of utmost importance.
(209) 248-6516 View (209) 248-6516
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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.