Photo of Karen Tucker, LMHC-S, Counselor
Karen Tucker
Counselor, LMHC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seminole, FL 33776
My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment to identify challenges and help you find some balance in your life, while creating a nurturing and safe environment to become vulnerable to help change your trajectory.
My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment to identify challenges and help you find some balance in your life, while creating a nurturing and safe environment to become vulnerable to help change your trajectory.
(727) 496-7339 View (727) 496-7339
Photo of Clare W Simcox, MS, LMHC
Clare W Simcox
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seminole, FL 33778
Life sometimes has unexpected challenges: loss of someone we love, traumatic or frightening events, separation or divorce. Therapy is a way of being heard without interruptions, learning new strategies to reduce the emotional pain and tapping into the strengths that you are already using to heal. Where is it written that you cannot find happiness again?
Life sometimes has unexpected challenges: loss of someone we love, traumatic or frightening events, separation or divorce. Therapy is a way of being heard without interruptions, learning new strategies to reduce the emotional pain and tapping into the strengths that you are already using to heal. Where is it written that you cannot find happiness again?
(727) 312-1559 View (727) 312-1559
Photo of Lucy Turek, PhD, LMHC, CRC, Counselor
Lucy Turek
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seminole, FL 33772
Imagine seeking balance amidst the chaos of a high-stakes career, managing personal and professional relationships while striving for physical and spiritual wellness. My ideal client is someone who craves accountability and support through major life transitions. Whether you're in military, finance, entertainment, or a high-energy profession like management or elite athletics, you're looking to enhance your relationships, reduce stress, and navigate life's complexities with grace. I specialize in guiding high-achievers—business owners, professionals, politicians, and international transplants—towards achieving their goals.
Imagine seeking balance amidst the chaos of a high-stakes career, managing personal and professional relationships while striving for physical and spiritual wellness. My ideal client is someone who craves accountability and support through major life transitions. Whether you're in military, finance, entertainment, or a high-energy profession like management or elite athletics, you're looking to enhance your relationships, reduce stress, and navigate life's complexities with grace. I specialize in guiding high-achievers—business owners, professionals, politicians, and international transplants—towards achieving their goals.
(727) 625-1744 View (727) 625-1744
Photo of Jennifer Primavera - Creative Expressions Counseling Jennifer Primavera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Creative Expressions Counseling Jennifer Primavera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seminole, FL 33772
People do not fit in perfect little boxes, nor should treatment be tailored to a "one size fits all " approach. Everyone is different and unique. I believe it is important to find creative and healthy ways to help children, teens, adults, couples and their families to solve problems and move forward in their lives.
People do not fit in perfect little boxes, nor should treatment be tailored to a "one size fits all " approach. Everyone is different and unique. I believe it is important to find creative and healthy ways to help children, teens, adults, couples and their families to solve problems and move forward in their lives.
(727) 261-1925 View (727) 261-1925

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Gina Rothermel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Rothermel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
One of my specialty areas is working with individuals in families formed through foster care, adoption, blended families, and through reproductive medicine.
I find a lot of joy in helping teens and adults discover and reach their goals. If you are someone who wants to increase self-compassion and self-acceptance, heal from trauma, challenge long held beliefs about yourself or the world, strengthen relationships, process grief and loss, and/or find the inner strength and resources to make desired changes in your life, I might be a good fit for you. I also find it very meaningful to work with people unlearning and healing from diet culture, misogyny and sexism, a patriarchal system, homophobia, white supremacy and racism, gender role socialization, and ableism.
One of my specialty areas is working with individuals in families formed through foster care, adoption, blended families, and through reproductive medicine.
I find a lot of joy in helping teens and adults discover and reach their goals. If you are someone who wants to increase self-compassion and self-acceptance, heal from trauma, challenge long held beliefs about yourself or the world, strengthen relationships, process grief and loss, and/or find the inner strength and resources to make desired changes in your life, I might be a good fit for you. I also find it very meaningful to work with people unlearning and healing from diet culture, misogyny and sexism, a patriarchal system, homophobia, white supremacy and racism, gender role socialization, and ableism.
(215) 392-6879 View (215) 392-6879
Photo of Aaron Warren, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aaron Warren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I'm adoption competency trained, which gives me the extra skills and perspectives needed to help with unique challenges adoptive families and adoptees face.
Overwhelmed? At a loss? Welcome, and congratulations on taking your first step towards a healthy and thriving life. I'm Aaron, a Marriage and Family Therapist here in the Sunshine State and it is my personal mission to be open, inclusive, and supportive of all people. I'm trained in diverse relationships, lifestyles and challenges. While I have a wide range of experience, I currently specialize in relationship counseling (couples, pods, open, monogamous, etc.), LGBTQIA+ persons/trauma, religious trauma/ spirituality, and adoptive families. My goal is to join with you, so you can grow to live a thriving life!
I'm adoption competency trained, which gives me the extra skills and perspectives needed to help with unique challenges adoptive families and adoptees face.
Overwhelmed? At a loss? Welcome, and congratulations on taking your first step towards a healthy and thriving life. I'm Aaron, a Marriage and Family Therapist here in the Sunshine State and it is my personal mission to be open, inclusive, and supportive of all people. I'm trained in diverse relationships, lifestyles and challenges. While I have a wide range of experience, I currently specialize in relationship counseling (couples, pods, open, monogamous, etc.), LGBTQIA+ persons/trauma, religious trauma/ spirituality, and adoptive families. My goal is to join with you, so you can grow to live a thriving life!
(727) 353-1334 View (727) 353-1334
Photo of Tayler Clark, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tayler Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
New client spots available... Licensed in WI,IL,CO & FL(by endorsement). I identify as a Bi/queer cis woman (she/her) who was late diagnosed as ADHD. I provide LGBTQI+ and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy. I also provide therapy to those involved in Adoption & Foster through the TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) approach. We go against the grain of “typical” & how “things should be” & focus instead on what works for you. Are you ready to dig into root issues, explore your identity, set boundaries, communicate your needs and build healthy coping skills?
New client spots available... Licensed in WI,IL,CO & FL(by endorsement). I identify as a Bi/queer cis woman (she/her) who was late diagnosed as ADHD. I provide LGBTQI+ and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy. I also provide therapy to those involved in Adoption & Foster through the TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) approach. We go against the grain of “typical” & how “things should be” & focus instead on what works for you. Are you ready to dig into root issues, explore your identity, set boundaries, communicate your needs and build healthy coping skills?
View
Photo of Ashley Rhodes-Courter, LCSW, CBHCM, , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Rhodes-Courter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CBHCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Our interventions include play and Art Therapy, Gardening, Essential Oils, Mindfulness, Yoga, and Therapeutic Urban Chickens! Clinical passions include work with: Advocates, Allies, Survivors, Professionals in high-stress jobs, LGBTQIA+ Community, Education, Adoption, Foster Care, Advocacy, Compassion Fatigue.
This is an affirming, no hate, no judgment space. Growing up in the foster care system gave me a unique perspective on the key elements of resiliency and processing trauma. We offer a Therapeutic After School program M-F, as well as In-Person and Telehealth Services. I chronicle my journey as a foster child turned foster and adoptive parent in my New York Times Bestselling book, “Three Little Words” and sequel, “Three More Words.” Though it may be hard to see this now, your hardships and diversity are what make you that much more capable of tremendous success. Let's see how our comprehensive team can help you or your family!
Our interventions include play and Art Therapy, Gardening, Essential Oils, Mindfulness, Yoga, and Therapeutic Urban Chickens! Clinical passions include work with: Advocates, Allies, Survivors, Professionals in high-stress jobs, LGBTQIA+ Community, Education, Adoption, Foster Care, Advocacy, Compassion Fatigue.
This is an affirming, no hate, no judgment space. Growing up in the foster care system gave me a unique perspective on the key elements of resiliency and processing trauma. We offer a Therapeutic After School program M-F, as well as In-Person and Telehealth Services. I chronicle my journey as a foster child turned foster and adoptive parent in my New York Times Bestselling book, “Three Little Words” and sequel, “Three More Words.” Though it may be hard to see this now, your hardships and diversity are what make you that much more capable of tremendous success. Let's see how our comprehensive team can help you or your family!
(727) 945-6845 View (727) 945-6845
Photo of Dr. Melissa Jinariu With Therapy So-Cal, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Dr. Melissa Jinariu With Therapy So-Cal
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Further, we deliver adoption-competent and spiritually-integrated care.
With 25 years of experience specializing in both trauma and pediatrics I have helped hundreds of clients navigate complex trauma, anxiety, stress, sadness, school problems, ADHD, ASD, OCD, and adoption related concerns. If you feel stuck in repeated patterns, triggers, or unwanted memories from your past, we can help! If your child has difficulty managing their big feelings and behaviors, we've got you! We will work with you and/or your child using evidence based treatments like EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, ERP, and PCIT to improve coping and quality of life. Your family's path to healing starts with a call to our practice: Therapy SoCal.
Further, we deliver adoption-competent and spiritually-integrated care.
With 25 years of experience specializing in both trauma and pediatrics I have helped hundreds of clients navigate complex trauma, anxiety, stress, sadness, school problems, ADHD, ASD, OCD, and adoption related concerns. If you feel stuck in repeated patterns, triggers, or unwanted memories from your past, we can help! If your child has difficulty managing their big feelings and behaviors, we've got you! We will work with you and/or your child using evidence based treatments like EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, ERP, and PCIT to improve coping and quality of life. Your family's path to healing starts with a call to our practice: Therapy SoCal.
(661) 690-1228 View (661) 690-1228
Photo of Deirdre Guilloton, MS, LMFT, QS-FL, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deirdre Guilloton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, QS-FL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713  (Online Only)
I am a certified trainer for Adoption Competency Counseling, and hold additional training certificates in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I strive to assist clients of all ages struggling with self esteem, anxiety or depression to improve their lives through strength based services. I am skilled in behavior modification, and love to help families to increase their attachment and connection.
I am a certified trainer for Adoption Competency Counseling, and hold additional training certificates in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I strive to assist clients of all ages struggling with self esteem, anxiety or depression to improve their lives through strength based services. I am skilled in behavior modification, and love to help families to increase their attachment and connection.
(941) 676-8783 View (941) 676-8783
Photo of Justin McClain, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin McClain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, FL 33773
Are hard times triggering a past traumatic event? Are you so distracted by anxiety that it feels like you can’t think straight? Are you angry at the people you love most? I have years of experience helping people through those “I don’t know what to do” moments. From everyday stressors to traumatic events -- things are going to cause us to feel anxious, depressed, or angry. Feelings are real. I have years of experience and specialized training in helping people overcome traumatic events and families working through behavior challenges after an adoption.
Are hard times triggering a past traumatic event? Are you so distracted by anxiety that it feels like you can’t think straight? Are you angry at the people you love most? I have years of experience helping people through those “I don’t know what to do” moments. From everyday stressors to traumatic events -- things are going to cause us to feel anxious, depressed, or angry. Feelings are real. I have years of experience and specialized training in helping people overcome traumatic events and families working through behavior challenges after an adoption.
(727) 235-6856 View (727) 235-6856
Photo of Sherri Dominguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherri Dominguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pinellas Park, FL 33781
I have experience working with Adoption, Addiction Recovery, Trauma Reactions, OCD, Autism, Low Self-Esteem, and Burnout.
My ideal client is someone grappling with trauma, relationship challenges, or anxiety, feeling overwhelmed but ready for change. They need a safe, compassionate space to explore their emotions without judgment. Their goals are to heal, break free from negative patterns, and regain control over their life. They seek a therapist who is direct, honest, and supportive, someone who can help them build resilience, find clarity, and move forward with confidence. If this sounds like you, then I am your go-to girl!
I have experience working with Adoption, Addiction Recovery, Trauma Reactions, OCD, Autism, Low Self-Esteem, and Burnout.
My ideal client is someone grappling with trauma, relationship challenges, or anxiety, feeling overwhelmed but ready for change. They need a safe, compassionate space to explore their emotions without judgment. Their goals are to heal, break free from negative patterns, and regain control over their life. They seek a therapist who is direct, honest, and supportive, someone who can help them build resilience, find clarity, and move forward with confidence. If this sounds like you, then I am your go-to girl!
(813) 497-4858 View (813) 497-4858
Photo of Nadja von Malotki, BA, MSW, LCSW, CCAPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadja von Malotki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LCSW, CCAPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Pasadena, FL 33707  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, trained in Adoption Competency, and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I work with individuals and couples who struggle with various internal- and/or external challanges that impact their lives, relationships, and/or overall well-being. Maybe you are taking care of a loved one, or suffer from a chronic illness, perhaps you had a new baby and find yourself struggling with this beautiful, yet life-changing transition, or you plan on taking the next step in your relationship, yet you want to improve on communication skills first.
I am a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional, trained in Adoption Competency, and Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I work with individuals and couples who struggle with various internal- and/or external challanges that impact their lives, relationships, and/or overall well-being. Maybe you are taking care of a loved one, or suffer from a chronic illness, perhaps you had a new baby and find yourself struggling with this beautiful, yet life-changing transition, or you plan on taking the next step in your relationship, yet you want to improve on communication skills first.
(727) 855-6923 View (727) 855-6923
Photo of Tyra Lynn Humphrey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tyra Lynn Humphrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I also offer adoption services.
I have worked in mental health for over 20 years, with both teens and adults. I have provided a wide variety of support and counseling to address various mental health and adjustment issues among Veterans, individuals, families, and trauma survivors. My role as a therapist is to collaboratively identify your goals and work toward developing the skills and motivation you need to reach them. Seeking the support you need to address barriers that have impeded your ability to reach those goals alone shows strength and a desire to move your life forward.
I also offer adoption services.
I have worked in mental health for over 20 years, with both teens and adults. I have provided a wide variety of support and counseling to address various mental health and adjustment issues among Veterans, individuals, families, and trauma survivors. My role as a therapist is to collaboratively identify your goals and work toward developing the skills and motivation you need to reach them. Seeking the support you need to address barriers that have impeded your ability to reach those goals alone shows strength and a desire to move your life forward.
(727) 513-7505 View (727) 513-7505
Photo of Keisha McDonald, MS, MA, LPC, CATP, NCC, Counselor
Keisha McDonald
Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CATP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Are you seeing a counselor you don't vibe with? I specialize in going beyond traditional talk therapy to help people who are struggling with LIFE. My goal is to help you feel empowered to live as your true, authentic self. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and can be experienced in various forms. I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and relationships through the use of expressive arts. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track to obtain your successful outcome.
Are you seeing a counselor you don't vibe with? I specialize in going beyond traditional talk therapy to help people who are struggling with LIFE. My goal is to help you feel empowered to live as your true, authentic self. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and can be experienced in various forms. I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and relationships through the use of expressive arts. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track to obtain your successful outcome.
(616) 266-7081 View (616) 266-7081
Photo of Andrea Mason, MA, LMHC, RPT-S, Counselor
Andrea Mason
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Largo, FL 33771
Areas of expertise with children include aggression, acting out, school problems, loss, divorce, exposure, adoption to violence.
Life can be hard sometimes. Allow me to guide you and/or your family members through the challenges you face to help make life easier. Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision so please feel free to call me to see if we are a good match. The focus of my practice is all about the multi-faceted needs of families and individuals. I provide counseling to adults and children from infancy to adolescence and provide individual therapy, family therapy and couples work. Areas of focus with adults include relationship issues, divorce, trauma, depression, and anxiety and parenting issues
Areas of expertise with children include aggression, acting out, school problems, loss, divorce, exposure, adoption to violence.
Life can be hard sometimes. Allow me to guide you and/or your family members through the challenges you face to help make life easier. Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision so please feel free to call me to see if we are a good match. The focus of my practice is all about the multi-faceted needs of families and individuals. I provide counseling to adults and children from infancy to adolescence and provide individual therapy, family therapy and couples work. Areas of focus with adults include relationship issues, divorce, trauma, depression, and anxiety and parenting issues
(727) 328-4682 View (727) 328-4682
Photo of Carrie Simmons Well-Balanced Counseling Llc, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Carrie Simmons Well-Balanced Counseling Llc
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Please contact me for treatment for: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, Obsessive Compulsions, Racing Thoughts, Sleeping Difficulties, Marital Quarreling, Infidelity, Fertility, Foster/ Adoption Circumstances, Childhood Issues, Divorce, Grief/Loss.
Most of us are stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis. Life can be a balancing act of juggling work, family, and pleasurable activities. I'm skilled in teaching and implementing techniques that can aid in reducing anxiety and help you cope with stress and pressures from daily living. Additionally, I treat relationship issues, teach healthy communication and conflict resolution. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I provide services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I'm licensed in the states of Florida, New York and Washington and can provide treatment via video anywhere in these states.
Please contact me for treatment for: Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, PTSD, ADD/ADHD, Obsessive Compulsions, Racing Thoughts, Sleeping Difficulties, Marital Quarreling, Infidelity, Fertility, Foster/ Adoption Circumstances, Childhood Issues, Divorce, Grief/Loss.
Most of us are stressed and overwhelmed on a daily basis. Life can be a balancing act of juggling work, family, and pleasurable activities. I'm skilled in teaching and implementing techniques that can aid in reducing anxiety and help you cope with stress and pressures from daily living. Additionally, I treat relationship issues, teach healthy communication and conflict resolution. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I provide services to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I'm licensed in the states of Florida, New York and Washington and can provide treatment via video anywhere in these states.
(727) 287-5397 View (727) 287-5397
Photo of Laurie Giancola, LMHC, Counselor
Laurie Giancola
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clearwater, FL 33760
My training includes EMDR, hypnosis, traumatic incident reduction, adoption competency, child-parent psychotherapy, and I am a level 2 certified clinical trauma specialist.
Traumatic experiences can impact every aspect of your life and leave you feeling angry, confused, and lonely. If you feel discouraged, misunderstood, and just exhausted by how much energy it takes to cope on a daily basis, we should talk. I understand that trauma symptoms are disempowering and want you to know that you don’t have to handle this on your own.
My training includes EMDR, hypnosis, traumatic incident reduction, adoption competency, child-parent psychotherapy, and I am a level 2 certified clinical trauma specialist.
Traumatic experiences can impact every aspect of your life and leave you feeling angry, confused, and lonely. If you feel discouraged, misunderstood, and just exhausted by how much energy it takes to cope on a daily basis, we should talk. I understand that trauma symptoms are disempowering and want you to know that you don’t have to handle this on your own.
(727) 205-2614 View (727) 205-2614
Photo of Jessica Butler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33710
I provide counseling for individuals and families, specializing in attachment oriented therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have worked with individuals and families that struggle with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, and abusive relationships. In addition, I have experience working with children that are struggling with adoption and adults reflecting on their adoption experience. By utilizing an individualized insight-oriented approach, I aim to help both children and adults process emotions and achieve positive progress. I am a strong believer of the mind/body/spirit connection.
I provide counseling for individuals and families, specializing in attachment oriented therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have worked with individuals and families that struggle with anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, and abusive relationships. In addition, I have experience working with children that are struggling with adoption and adults reflecting on their adoption experience. By utilizing an individualized insight-oriented approach, I aim to help both children and adults process emotions and achieve positive progress. I am a strong believer of the mind/body/spirit connection.
(727) 291-4892 View (727) 291-4892
Photo of Tomilyn Ward, LPC, MPC, EMDR, PCIT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tomilyn Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPC, EMDR, PCIT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I specialize in EMDR. therapy. I also work with clients who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I have training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. I also have experience with working closely with clients who have experienced traumatic births as well as birth workers and medical providers who witness traumatic births. I have attended over 30 births as a birth doula and I understand the process of birth for parents and providers.
I specialize in EMDR. therapy. I also work with clients who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I have training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. I also have experience with working closely with clients who have experienced traumatic births as well as birth workers and medical providers who witness traumatic births. I have attended over 30 births as a birth doula and I understand the process of birth for parents and providers.
(412) 837-8121 View (412) 837-8121
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.