Adoption Therapists in North Miami, FL

Photo of Klaus E Laleau, MA
Klaus E Laleau
MA
Verified Verified
North Miami, FL 33161
My ideal client is battling with different variables. They may have had family issues, things aren’t going to well socially and they need help within their ideal life. They want to feel love and accepted. They also want to be successful and have a great life one day. Furthermore, they want it because of there harsh reality and always dreamed of what living a better life would be like.
My ideal client is battling with different variables. They may have had family issues, things aren’t going to well socially and they need help within their ideal life. They want to feel love and accepted. They also want to be successful and have a great life one day. Furthermore, they want it because of there harsh reality and always dreamed of what living a better life would be like.
(305) 527-4440 View (305) 527-4440
Photo of Betsy Godoy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Godoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Miami, FL 33161  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am an LCSW in Florida with more than 10 years of professional work experience. I am passionate about helping clients with trauma, abuse, spirituality/religion issues, stress, anxiety, family conflicts and & parenting. I believe that you are the expert of your story, that you have many strengths that I can assist you in discovering to help in overcoming the challenges you face. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am honored to come alongside you!
Hi there! I am an LCSW in Florida with more than 10 years of professional work experience. I am passionate about helping clients with trauma, abuse, spirituality/religion issues, stress, anxiety, family conflicts and & parenting. I believe that you are the expert of your story, that you have many strengths that I can assist you in discovering to help in overcoming the challenges you face. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am honored to come alongside you!
(786) 705-3222 View (786) 705-3222
Photo of Meyrav Barak, LMHC, Counselor
Meyrav Barak
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Miami, FL 33181
In life we often ask ourselves "how come I ended up feeling like this, in the same situation again?" The psychodynamic approach has an answer for that: unless we make ourselves aware of what are our hidden motivations we will not get rid of maladaptive patterns that control our lives. Therapy is the exploration through which you get to know yourself better, you get to accept your personal history and the current situation that you are living in; allowing you to bring out the best in your self, improve the quality of your relationships and further your personal growth.
In life we often ask ourselves "how come I ended up feeling like this, in the same situation again?" The psychodynamic approach has an answer for that: unless we make ourselves aware of what are our hidden motivations we will not get rid of maladaptive patterns that control our lives. Therapy is the exploration through which you get to know yourself better, you get to accept your personal history and the current situation that you are living in; allowing you to bring out the best in your self, improve the quality of your relationships and further your personal growth.
(646) 846-4308 View (646) 846-4308
Photo of Isabel Gonzalez, PsyD, LMFT, LMHC, Psychologist
Isabel Gonzalez
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
North Miami, FL 33181
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.
(305) 575-2698 View (305) 575-2698
Photo of Isabel Gonzalez - Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT, Psychologist
Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Miami, FL 33181
Welcome to Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center! At Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center, our Clinical Neuropsychologists and Therapists are highly specialized in the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral assessment and treatment of children and adults, and are able to provide testing and therapy services in English and Spanish.
Welcome to Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center! At Insight Neurocognitive and Behavioral Center, our Clinical Neuropsychologists and Therapists are highly specialized in the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral assessment and treatment of children and adults, and are able to provide testing and therapy services in English and Spanish.
(786) 772-6795 View (786) 772-6795
Photo of Gia Bess - Mind Your Breath Counseling LLC, MSW, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mind Your Breath Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
North Miami, FL 33167  (Online Only)
I believe that true emotional healing comes through holistically tending to the body, mind and spirit. I offer full range psychotherapy services that I combine with several Somatic or body-based techniques. As a registered Yoga Teacher, I have been known to incorporate meditation, breathing or physical postures in my sessions. The research shows that trauma, grief and the after effects of some of our experiences are stored in our bodies. What better way to heal or release them from our bodies than to intentionally use body exercises to move this harmful trauma energy out for good. I work with new mothers, children and families.
I believe that true emotional healing comes through holistically tending to the body, mind and spirit. I offer full range psychotherapy services that I combine with several Somatic or body-based techniques. As a registered Yoga Teacher, I have been known to incorporate meditation, breathing or physical postures in my sessions. The research shows that trauma, grief and the after effects of some of our experiences are stored in our bodies. What better way to heal or release them from our bodies than to intentionally use body exercises to move this harmful trauma energy out for good. I work with new mothers, children and families.
(786) 829-5950 View (786) 829-5950

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Margot E Logan - A Better Life Counseling Services, Inc., MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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).
(407) 801-6861 View (407) 801-6861
Photo of Dr. Melissa Miller-Muñoz - Healing Hearts Holistic Therapy, LLC, PhD, MS, MA
Healing Hearts Holistic Therapy, LLC
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, PhD, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Lakes, FL 33014  (Online Only)
I specialize in family system dynamics, marital & relationship conflict, children & adolescent adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, feelings expression, school & peer conflict, women’s issues, career changes, life transitions, foster care youth, adoption, LGBTQIA issues, gender identity & expression.
I believe that empowerment is an essential and powerful tool in the healing process. I approach the therapist-client relationship with an open heart and mind, building upon trust, collaboration, and empathy to produce transformative outcomes. I seek to facilitate change by entering the client’s psychological world; this allows me to focus on the lived experiences of each individual and the personal meaning behind their circumstances past, present, and future to determine the most effective therapeutic interventions. My holistic approach to psychotherapy focuses on the overall relationship between mind, body & spirit!
I specialize in family system dynamics, marital & relationship conflict, children & adolescent adjustment issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, feelings expression, school & peer conflict, women’s issues, career changes, life transitions, foster care youth, adoption, LGBTQIA issues, gender identity & expression.
I believe that empowerment is an essential and powerful tool in the healing process. I approach the therapist-client relationship with an open heart and mind, building upon trust, collaboration, and empathy to produce transformative outcomes. I seek to facilitate change by entering the client’s psychological world; this allows me to focus on the lived experiences of each individual and the personal meaning behind their circumstances past, present, and future to determine the most effective therapeutic interventions. My holistic approach to psychotherapy focuses on the overall relationship between mind, body & spirit!
(954) 287-0657 View (954) 287-0657
Photo of Tara Griffith, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
3 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.
(904) 867-2078 View (904) 867-2078
Photo of Lisa Herring, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Herring
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130
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.
(786) 767-6702 View (786) 767-6702
Photo of Falon Fonoti - Cultivated Counseling and Coaching, LLC, LMHC, Counselor
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.
(813) 670-7244 View (813) 670-7244
Photo of Deb Peckham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deb Peckham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hialeah, FL 33012
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.
(904) 560-8189 View (904) 560-8189
Photo of Ann-Marie Miglionico - Tranquil Waters Foundation Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tranquil Waters Foundation Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130  (Online Only)
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Foster/ Adoption Competent, and use Prepare/Enrich Model for Couples Counseling.
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 in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Foster/ Adoption Competent, and use Prepare/Enrich Model for Couples Counseling.
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.
(407) 449-1294 View (407) 449-1294
Photo of Nally Fernandez, LMHC, Counselor
Nally Fernandez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33169
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.
(786) 707-2045 View (786) 707-2045
Photo of Dr. Veronica Dumas, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Veronica Dumas
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
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.
(786) 692-5851 View (786) 692-5851
Photo of Anne-Marie T Brown, LCSW, MCAP, ICADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne-Marie T Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
Hollywood, FL 33025
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, child welfare cases and adoption, and substance use disorder and I work with both individuals and families.
Taking the first step and asking for help takes courage! I'm proud of you for reaching out and I look forward to being part of your healing. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Master's Level Certified Addiction Professional, Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, TF-CBT Certified Therapist, EMDR Certified Therapist, EMDR Approved Consultant, and Registered Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator. I utilize a trauma-informed, client-centered, strengths-based approach when working with all clients and I combine evidence-based trauma treatments with Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, child welfare cases and adoption, and substance use disorder and I work with both individuals and families.
Taking the first step and asking for help takes courage! I'm proud of you for reaching out and I look forward to being part of your healing. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Master's Level Certified Addiction Professional, Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, TF-CBT Certified Therapist, EMDR Certified Therapist, EMDR Approved Consultant, and Registered Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator. I utilize a trauma-informed, client-centered, strengths-based approach when working with all clients and I combine evidence-based trauma treatments with Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
(772) 291-5321 View (772) 291-5321
Photo of Loredana Repetto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Loredana Repetto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
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.
(727) 619-1542 View (727) 619-1542
Photo of Merlyn Asencio, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Merlyn Asencio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hialeah, FL 33015  (Online Only)
My ideal client? She’s that strong, resilient woman who’s always been there for everyone else but now feels lost—caught in cycles of people-pleasing, unsteady boundaries, and relationships that leave her questioning her worth. She craves clarity, peace, and the freedom to break old patterns. She’s ambitious, whether stepping into motherhood, entrepreneurship, or just tired of surviving on autopilot. She knows something has to change. She’s ready to find her voice, heal old wounds, and live a life that feels truly fulfilling from the inside out. If that woman is you. I have good news. I’m here to help you do just that.
My ideal client? She’s that strong, resilient woman who’s always been there for everyone else but now feels lost—caught in cycles of people-pleasing, unsteady boundaries, and relationships that leave her questioning her worth. She craves clarity, peace, and the freedom to break old patterns. She’s ambitious, whether stepping into motherhood, entrepreneurship, or just tired of surviving on autopilot. She knows something has to change. She’s ready to find her voice, heal old wounds, and live a life that feels truly fulfilling from the inside out. If that woman is you. I have good news. I’m here to help you do just that.
(786) 386-2175 View (786) 386-2175
Photo of Anthony W. Tanona, PsyD, Psychologist
Anthony W. Tanona
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aventura, FL 33180
If you are feeling down or worried, having difficulty with your child or adolescent, or are looking to improve your family relationships, I would like to help. I specialize in the treatment and assessment of children, adolescents, and adults along with having extensive experience providing family and couples therapy. Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? Is your child having behavioral problems at home or at school? Are you currently struggling with a difficult relationship? Is your child reacting to a stressful family situation, such as divorce? Is your child falling behind or acting out at school.
If you are feeling down or worried, having difficulty with your child or adolescent, or are looking to improve your family relationships, I would like to help. I specialize in the treatment and assessment of children, adolescents, and adults along with having extensive experience providing family and couples therapy. Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? Is your child having behavioral problems at home or at school? Are you currently struggling with a difficult relationship? Is your child reacting to a stressful family situation, such as divorce? Is your child falling behind or acting out at school.
(305) 933-5733 View (305) 933-5733
Photo of Limor Grinberg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Limor Grinberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aventura, FL 33180  (Online Only)
I am committed to helping individuals find inner peace and well-being. My approach offers a compassionate and supportive space where we can collaboratively explore the underlying causes of your challenges. By examining life patterns and understanding your emotions, we can develop effective strategies to alleviate symptoms and foster lasting change. With extensive experience in overcoming life obstacles and interpersonal difficulties, I am dedicated to empowering clients to build resilience and achieve their full potential
I am committed to helping individuals find inner peace and well-being. My approach offers a compassionate and supportive space where we can collaboratively explore the underlying causes of your challenges. By examining life patterns and understanding your emotions, we can develop effective strategies to alleviate symptoms and foster lasting change. With extensive experience in overcoming life obstacles and interpersonal difficulties, I am dedicated to empowering clients to build resilience and achieve their full potential
(954) 231-1058 View (954) 231-1058

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.