Adoption Therapists in Miami Shores, FL
![Photo of Dr. Veronica Dumas, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e409f6a-dd13-4734-9f59-d67a5e3d9ecc/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals and couples going thru infertility, pregnancy loss and adoption.
I have been guiding clients with their personal and relationship struggles for over 20 years. It is an honor and a privilege for me to help people thru their challenges. I help couples to RECONNECT by bringing the SPARK back into the relationship and teaching them a new communication technique. I guide people to achieve their HIGHEST POTENTIAL in all areas of life, so that they may lead a fulfilling and impactful life in true connection with others. Working in a collaborative, empathic and nonjudgmental manner, I help my clients identify and work on the source of their sadness, anxiety, conflict, and dissatisfaction.
I work with individuals and couples going thru infertility, pregnancy loss and adoption.
I have been guiding clients with their personal and relationship struggles for over 20 years. It is an honor and a privilege for me to help people thru their challenges. I help couples to RECONNECT by bringing the SPARK back into the relationship and teaching them a new communication technique. I guide people to achieve their HIGHEST POTENTIAL in all areas of life, so that they may lead a fulfilling and impactful life in true connection with others. Working in a collaborative, empathic and nonjudgmental manner, I help my clients identify and work on the source of their sadness, anxiety, conflict, and dissatisfaction.
![Photo of Betty Matz Gelsky, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92f99599-3abb-49d2-8e16-6a917c5c0429/2/320x400.jpeg)
After your first session, you will be better equipped to find, create and sustain the relationship you dream of. As a psychotherapist working with individuals, couples and families for over 30 years, and a dating website coach, I passionately help my clients develop meaningful, lasting connections. Utilizing 3 decades of personal and professional experience, I look forward to sharing concepts, skills and mindset for improving all your relationships so you can live your best life. All relationships welcome. For your convenience, I offer a variety of services including office, phone and virtual sessions. Call me today. 786.728.6381
After your first session, you will be better equipped to find, create and sustain the relationship you dream of. As a psychotherapist working with individuals, couples and families for over 30 years, and a dating website coach, I passionately help my clients develop meaningful, lasting connections. Utilizing 3 decades of personal and professional experience, I look forward to sharing concepts, skills and mindset for improving all your relationships so you can live your best life. All relationships welcome. For your convenience, I offer a variety of services including office, phone and virtual sessions. Call me today. 786.728.6381
![Photo of Sally Duerr-Rodriguez, MS, LMHC, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f25f395-63c0-4ddc-968f-86d545748790/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sally Duerr-Rodriguez
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Shores, FL 33138
I want to help set you free. I am certified in DBT for adolescents, young adults, adults and families and also have a certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for eating disorders. My other specialties include substance abuse, eating disorders, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, stress, relationship difficulties, and grief. Let's take the first step to freedom together.
I want to help set you free. I am certified in DBT for adolescents, young adults, adults and families and also have a certification in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for eating disorders. My other specialties include substance abuse, eating disorders, depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, stress, relationship difficulties, and grief. Let's take the first step to freedom together.
![Photo of Jessica T Collins, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1a02fe-d51f-4c8f-873f-16ccdc467509/5/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica T Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami Shores, FL 33138
Immediate Availability! Yung Pueblo, one of my favorite writers says, "Personal transformation is not easy. Healing yourself takes time. Letting go can sometimes feel overwhelming. Building new habits can seem like an uphill battle. Even with all of these challenges, inner work is worth it. This active form of self-love can radically change your life." Growth isn't just about being in full bloom; it's the process by which you get there...and how you continue to thrive after all the messiness from that growth. But often, you can't do this alone or without the right tools, support, and encouragement. That's what I'm here for!
Immediate Availability! Yung Pueblo, one of my favorite writers says, "Personal transformation is not easy. Healing yourself takes time. Letting go can sometimes feel overwhelming. Building new habits can seem like an uphill battle. Even with all of these challenges, inner work is worth it. This active form of self-love can radically change your life." Growth isn't just about being in full bloom; it's the process by which you get there...and how you continue to thrive after all the messiness from that growth. But often, you can't do this alone or without the right tools, support, and encouragement. That's what I'm here for!
![Photo of Isabel Gonzalez, PsyD, LMFT, LMHC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05c5db90-0096-4459-abbb-cb00cb87aa24/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Isabel Gonzalez is a bilingual (English-Spanish) pediatric neuropsychologist, licensed as a clinical psychologist, mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist. She earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology and Child Psychology from Albizu University in Miami, Florida. Dr. Gonzalez completed her internship and a two-year fellowship in Bilingual Pediatric Neuropsychology at Children’s Hospital Colorado, ranked as one of the top 10 children’s hospital in the U.S. Dr. Gonzalez’s clinical experience has been based on internationally recognized hospitals in the United States.
Dr. Isabel Gonzalez is a bilingual (English-Spanish) pediatric neuropsychologist, licensed as a clinical psychologist, mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist. She earned her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Neuropsychology and Child Psychology from Albizu University in Miami, Florida. Dr. Gonzalez completed her internship and a two-year fellowship in Bilingual Pediatric Neuropsychology at Children’s Hospital Colorado, ranked as one of the top 10 children’s hospital in the U.S. Dr. Gonzalez’s clinical experience has been based on internationally recognized hospitals in the United States.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Margot E Logan - A Better Life Counseling Services, Inc., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42296b21-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Better Life Counseling Services, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130
I am uniquely qualified to help you with any adoption-related issues from all three members of the adoption triad, birth parent, adoptive parent, and adoptee.
If you are looking for an empathetic and experienced therapist, I am here to help you. I will work hard to guide you to make the choices that will help you to achieve a better life. I am experienced in working with families, couples, and individuals. I provide a welcoming atmosphere to people of all races, ages, ethnic backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexual orientations. Additionally, I am a Qualified Supervisor for clinicians seeking licensure for Social Work (LCSW) and Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT).
I am uniquely qualified to help you with any adoption-related issues from all three members of the adoption triad, birth parent, adoptive parent, and adoptee.
If you are looking for an empathetic and experienced therapist, I am here to help you. I will work hard to guide you to make the choices that will help you to achieve a better life. I am experienced in working with families, couples, and individuals. I provide a welcoming atmosphere to people of all races, ages, ethnic backgrounds, religions, genders, and sexual orientations. Additionally, I am a Qualified Supervisor for clinicians seeking licensure for Social Work (LCSW) and Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT).
![Photo of Teena Scott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a0e6b1e-3f39-4f13-ba24-fd7addb8f37e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teena Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33122 (Online Only)
My vision as a therapist is to help adolescents, adults, couples and families recognize that they have what it takes to promote their own evolution. Growth and change can be a challenge at times. My role is to support others to work towards their healing holistically; I help them to unpack the pain that exists and recognize the impact on their mind, body, spirit and relationships. t is my intention to break down barriers in areas related to relationships,divorce,infidelity, blending families, adoption, anxiety, depression, and racial inequity in such a way that my clients feel more connected to their own sense of purpose & value.
My vision as a therapist is to help adolescents, adults, couples and families recognize that they have what it takes to promote their own evolution. Growth and change can be a challenge at times. My role is to support others to work towards their healing holistically; I help them to unpack the pain that exists and recognize the impact on their mind, body, spirit and relationships. t is my intention to break down barriers in areas related to relationships,divorce,infidelity, blending families, adoption, anxiety, depression, and racial inequity in such a way that my clients feel more connected to their own sense of purpose & value.
![Photo of Lisa Herring, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccac43b1-e6f4-4a56-89ad-2ca40bb75b62/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents and children with Anxiety, ADHD, Adoption issues, Depression, and Grief, and Substance Use disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida (MH 16403). I received my Master’s Degree in Psychology and and Clinical Counseling from Troy University and have been a clinical counselor since 2015.
I specialize in working with adults, adolescents and children with Anxiety, ADHD, Adoption issues, Depression, and Grief, and Substance Use disorders.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Florida (MH 16403). I received my Master’s Degree in Psychology and and Clinical Counseling from Troy University and have been a clinical counselor since 2015.
![Photo of Patricia Bryant-Renfro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0268ebb-02a9-49fe-8232-25e2d33c0e61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Bryant-Renfro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33134 (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, separation due to divorce, foster care, with adoption adjustments, forming healthy attachments and relationship, and with grief.
My journey of helping individuals and families began as a child and family social worker. I worked closely with individuals and families to provide support and services to ensure all their needs were met and they had all the services available to help them thrive. I have worked as a trauma specific therapist, helping children who have had traumatic experiences learn to cope and manage their thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
I have experience working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, separation due to divorce, foster care, with adoption adjustments, forming healthy attachments and relationship, and with grief.
My journey of helping individuals and families began as a child and family social worker. I worked closely with individuals and families to provide support and services to ensure all their needs were met and they had all the services available to help them thrive. I have worked as a trauma specific therapist, helping children who have had traumatic experiences learn to cope and manage their thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
![Photo of Falon Williams - Cultivated Counseling and Coaching, LLC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d258ebde-b2be-4f61-96f8-d1366665d310/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cultivated Counseling and Coaching, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
If you are experiencing difficulties with anxiety, communication skills, life transitions and adjustment, infertility struggles, postpartum depression/anxiety, foster care, adoption, I can help.
Hello, I’m falon. I’m happy you’re here. Are you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? Are you having difficulties in relationships? Sometimes life is hard. Seeking therapy is an important first step on the path to wellness. I applaud you for taking the first step. I am committed to creating a comfortable, welcoming and nonjudgmental environment with you to be able to address your specific needs. I am here to help you accomplish your goals, achieve wellness, and life your best life as your best self.
If you are experiencing difficulties with anxiety, communication skills, life transitions and adjustment, infertility struggles, postpartum depression/anxiety, foster care, adoption, I can help.
Hello, I’m falon. I’m happy you’re here. Are you feeling overwhelmed or stressed? Are you having difficulties in relationships? Sometimes life is hard. Seeking therapy is an important first step on the path to wellness. I applaud you for taking the first step. I am committed to creating a comfortable, welcoming and nonjudgmental environment with you to be able to address your specific needs. I am here to help you accomplish your goals, achieve wellness, and life your best life as your best self.
![Photo of Tara Griffith, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4df2e9e6-8bda-4505-a8fa-ab594df0f121/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tara Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
My specialties include anxiety, depression, irritability, inattention, adoption, trauma related to adoption, maternal mental health, and infertility struggles.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 14 years of experience working with families, children, adults, and geriatrics. Clients that I work with come to me for help processing through anxiety, depression, irritability, inattention and trauma to lead happier and healthier lives.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, irritability, inattention, adoption, trauma related to adoption, maternal mental health, and infertility struggles.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 14 years of experience working with families, children, adults, and geriatrics. Clients that I work with come to me for help processing through anxiety, depression, irritability, inattention and trauma to lead happier and healthier lives.
![Photo of Nally Fernandez, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6049a3bf-0a1f-463d-a597-464b7a6d7484/1/320x400.jpeg)
Support for adolescents, adults, and families who need assistance with life challenges such as anxiety, family related generational trauma, sexual concerns, PTSD /Complex trauma ( sexual abuse, domestic violence, neglect, adoption trauma) attachment issues, occupational stress (first responders) EMDR Certified, trauma focused, Sex Therapy Certified. Adoption Competent and Kink/poly and sex work affirmative. As your therapist, your healing is my goal. I provide psychotherapy in English and Spanish both in person and via telehealth. Techniques include EMDR, Somatic treatment, psychodynamic client centered attachment based strategies.
Support for adolescents, adults, and families who need assistance with life challenges such as anxiety, family related generational trauma, sexual concerns, PTSD /Complex trauma ( sexual abuse, domestic violence, neglect, adoption trauma) attachment issues, occupational stress (first responders) EMDR Certified, trauma focused, Sex Therapy Certified. Adoption Competent and Kink/poly and sex work affirmative. As your therapist, your healing is my goal. I provide psychotherapy in English and Spanish both in person and via telehealth. Techniques include EMDR, Somatic treatment, psychodynamic client centered attachment based strategies.
![Photo of Anna Hanson, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-T, CHWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/198030ca-5dda-49fc-88ba-41f7bb1bbda1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Hanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-T, CHWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunny Isles, FL 33160 (Online Only)
I also work with international adoption community in U.
Are you searching for a psychotherapist who can provide the guidance and support you need to overcome difficult issues? I am here to help you navigate through the challenges that have left you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and defeated. I believe in taking a holistic approach, addressing not just your thoughts and emotions, but also the connection between your mind and body. Together, we will explore your feelings, delve into your subconscious, and discover coping mechanisms that will empower you to take control of your life. Let's embark on this therapeutic journey together and unlock your true potential!
I also work with international adoption community in U.
Are you searching for a psychotherapist who can provide the guidance and support you need to overcome difficult issues? I am here to help you navigate through the challenges that have left you feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and defeated. I believe in taking a holistic approach, addressing not just your thoughts and emotions, but also the connection between your mind and body. Together, we will explore your feelings, delve into your subconscious, and discover coping mechanisms that will empower you to take control of your life. Let's embark on this therapeutic journey together and unlock your true potential!
![Photo of Kate L. Kutner, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f46f3b2-2929-4714-9960-a1053f3b75e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally, I have professional and personal experience with infertility, foster care, and adoption.
Hi, I'm Kate! I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, licensed in California, Colorado, Texas, and Florida. My goal as a therapist is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where you can share your experiences and enhance personal growth. Although we are not able to change the stories of our past, I believe we can learn from the behavior patterns that might be keeping us from moving forward. My approach to therapy begins by meeting you where you are, in the moment. You are the expert on your own life, and my goal is to provide a safe environment as you move toward change and growth in this journey.
Additionally, I have professional and personal experience with infertility, foster care, and adoption.
Hi, I'm Kate! I am a Marriage & Family Therapist, licensed in California, Colorado, Texas, and Florida. My goal as a therapist is to provide a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where you can share your experiences and enhance personal growth. Although we are not able to change the stories of our past, I believe we can learn from the behavior patterns that might be keeping us from moving forward. My approach to therapy begins by meeting you where you are, in the moment. You are the expert on your own life, and my goal is to provide a safe environment as you move toward change and growth in this journey.
![Photo of Deb Peckham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a413c10-16c3-41e9-a150-f3cf0756fdfa/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialty is adoption and adoption related issues (including but not limited to, attachment, grief and loss, identity, search, the primal wound, worthiness, open adoption, pre-adoption education etc.
I have been a therapist for over 25 years. I have a Master's in Social Work and a Master's in Education. I am also a certified Pet Bereavement Specialist. I utilize a narrative therapy style. I prioritize building a strong foundation of trust in my client relationships and creating a safe environment for them. I believe that long-term healing and sustainable growth blossom from genuine conversation. This style of therapy highlights an opportunity for me to bear witness to your story, validate your experience, and support you in moving forward. I Incorporate various treatment approaches to suit the individual client's needs.
My specialty is adoption and adoption related issues (including but not limited to, attachment, grief and loss, identity, search, the primal wound, worthiness, open adoption, pre-adoption education etc.
I have been a therapist for over 25 years. I have a Master's in Social Work and a Master's in Education. I am also a certified Pet Bereavement Specialist. I utilize a narrative therapy style. I prioritize building a strong foundation of trust in my client relationships and creating a safe environment for them. I believe that long-term healing and sustainable growth blossom from genuine conversation. This style of therapy highlights an opportunity for me to bear witness to your story, validate your experience, and support you in moving forward. I Incorporate various treatment approaches to suit the individual client's needs.
![Photo of Ann-Marie Miglionico - Tranquil Waters Foundation Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47cd0270-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tranquil Waters Foundation Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
I am certified and trained as an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Clinician, Foster and Adoption Competent, and trained in Couples Counseling using Prepare/Enrich Model.
Virtual Only. As my patient, you will often enjoy the ability to be heard without judgement or interruption, when you want to share details of events that cause you to experience the emotions you are feeling. People often need an outlet as they process what they are feeling and I provide that in a safe environment. I guide the sessions to help encourage you in developing solutions when you are in that place emotionally, and ready for a positive change. Patients often find relief of their symptoms when they feel validated in how they are feeling, and supported as they learn how to cope with various situations that arise.
I am certified and trained as an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Clinician, Foster and Adoption Competent, and trained in Couples Counseling using Prepare/Enrich Model.
Virtual Only. As my patient, you will often enjoy the ability to be heard without judgement or interruption, when you want to share details of events that cause you to experience the emotions you are feeling. People often need an outlet as they process what they are feeling and I provide that in a safe environment. I guide the sessions to help encourage you in developing solutions when you are in that place emotionally, and ready for a positive change. Patients often find relief of their symptoms when they feel validated in how they are feeling, and supported as they learn how to cope with various situations that arise.
![Photo of Loredana Repetto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22f8fbd5-26ba-4b1d-9686-b70f1c81b95e/5/320x400.jpeg)
Maintaining an integrative approach, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, EMDR and Self Regulation techniques modalities in my therapeutic practice. My specialties are Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Sexual Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I believe that while it is crucial to have the knowledge and skills to implement the most effective evidence base protocols, the primary focus of my work is to create a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients, with whom I adopt a collaborative approach in order to tailor a treatment plan based on their needs and their cultural background.
Maintaining an integrative approach, I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy CBT, EMDR and Self Regulation techniques modalities in my therapeutic practice. My specialties are Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Sexual Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I believe that while it is crucial to have the knowledge and skills to implement the most effective evidence base protocols, the primary focus of my work is to create a safe therapeutic relationship with my clients, with whom I adopt a collaborative approach in order to tailor a treatment plan based on their needs and their cultural background.
![Photo of Merlyn Asencio, LCSW, MSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7635c841-a95c-4e01-bb44-298fe541da54/2/320x400.jpeg)
Merlyn Asencio
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hialeah, FL 33015 (Online Only)
Whether you are a teen or child struggling with family issues, anxiety, trauma, or the issues that come up each day, or you are a divorced woman trying to regain her perspective and learn who she is again, I am here for you. Life throws each of us curve balls that we need help processing and healing from. You don’t have to go through this journey alone. You may be feeling like you are barely able to survive right now, but I am here to tell you healing is possible. You can learn to do more than just survive; you can thrive.
Whether you are a teen or child struggling with family issues, anxiety, trauma, or the issues that come up each day, or you are a divorced woman trying to regain her perspective and learn who she is again, I am here for you. Life throws each of us curve balls that we need help processing and healing from. You don’t have to go through this journey alone. You may be feeling like you are barely able to survive right now, but I am here to tell you healing is possible. You can learn to do more than just survive; you can thrive.
![Photo of Maryellen Ebert, MS, EdS, LMHC, RPT-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5deec220-6d81-4b3a-9814-75757b4749d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed mental health counselor who has been in practice for 25 years. I work with people of all ages, from early childhood to the golden years. My approach is client centered within the family system. My goal is to help my clients feel heard, supported, empowered and capable.
I am a licensed mental health counselor who has been in practice for 25 years. I work with people of all ages, from early childhood to the golden years. My approach is client centered within the family system. My goal is to help my clients feel heard, supported, empowered and capable.
![Photo of Daniela Faskowicz, LMHC, CCATP, CATP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dab2fc17-efff-4675-8eee-dfb9c62f0aff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is Daniela; I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with many years of experience helping children, teenagers, and adults overcome anxiety, depression, and life transitions and lead lives that are joyful and fulfilling. Regardless of the reason for consultation, I keep in mind that every person is unique, with their own circumstances and stories. I assist my clients in exploring their feelings and navigating through their hardships, utilizing different approaches to address each client's needs.
Hi, my name is Daniela; I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with many years of experience helping children, teenagers, and adults overcome anxiety, depression, and life transitions and lead lives that are joyful and fulfilling. Regardless of the reason for consultation, I keep in mind that every person is unique, with their own circumstances and stories. I assist my clients in exploring their feelings and navigating through their hardships, utilizing different approaches to address each client's needs.
See more therapy options for Miami Shores
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Miami Shores
- Aventura
- Coconut Grove
- Doral
- Hallandale Beach
- Hialeah
- Miami
- Miami Beach
- Miami Gardens
- Miami Lakes
- North Miami
- North Miami Beach
- Sunny Isles
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.