Adoption Therapists in Avondale Estates, GA

Photo of Michelle Harris Wierson, PhD, Psychologist
Michelle Harris Wierson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Psychologist who has spent the last 30 years helping people transform their lives. Using a multi-faceted approach, therapy is tailored to the needs of the person or family, in order to bring the most meaningful and lasting change. I offer support, compassion, practical techniques, and persistence in my work – along with a good dose of creativity and life wisdom. In life, there are times when we feel strong, and other times when we feel broken. Psychotherapy is an interesting process, because the point of entry can happen at either time and be successful. No matter what, it takes courage to start the process.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who has spent the last 30 years helping people transform their lives. Using a multi-faceted approach, therapy is tailored to the needs of the person or family, in order to bring the most meaningful and lasting change. I offer support, compassion, practical techniques, and persistence in my work – along with a good dose of creativity and life wisdom. In life, there are times when we feel strong, and other times when we feel broken. Psychotherapy is an interesting process, because the point of entry can happen at either time and be successful. No matter what, it takes courage to start the process.
(770) 230-4225 View (770) 230-4225
Photo of Peggy Hurst, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peggy Hurst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Peggy Hurst is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience as a School Counselor and several years in private practice. She enjoys working with teenagers as well as adult individuals and couples to improve self-growth, relationships, and positive movement toward life goals. Areas of specialization include treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, special needs children, and career identity. Peggy holds a Master of Education in School Counseling from the University of Georgia and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Richmont Graduate University.
Peggy Hurst is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 20 years of experience as a School Counselor and several years in private practice. She enjoys working with teenagers as well as adult individuals and couples to improve self-growth, relationships, and positive movement toward life goals. Areas of specialization include treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, special needs children, and career identity. Peggy holds a Master of Education in School Counseling from the University of Georgia and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Richmont Graduate University.
(678) 786-2481 View (678) 786-2481
Photo of Lakeah White, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lakeah White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with approximately 12 years of experience with working with children, adults, families, and couples. I am proud to have an all-inclusive practice that serves clients and families of varying ethnicities, sexual orientations, socio-economic status, and other cultural backgrounds. I take pride in providing a comfortable and welcoming (yet always professional) environment where clients are encouraged to be open and honest. My primary goal is to help my clients to uncover their innate ability to adapt and thrive despite any challenges they may face.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with approximately 12 years of experience with working with children, adults, families, and couples. I am proud to have an all-inclusive practice that serves clients and families of varying ethnicities, sexual orientations, socio-economic status, and other cultural backgrounds. I take pride in providing a comfortable and welcoming (yet always professional) environment where clients are encouraged to be open and honest. My primary goal is to help my clients to uncover their innate ability to adapt and thrive despite any challenges they may face.
(678) 607-9804 View (678) 607-9804
Photo of Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
(404) 800-3147 View (404) 800-3147
Photo of Kate Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Not accepting new clients
Researching therapists can be a daunting task, especially when you're used to tackling life's challenges on your own. Lately, something has shifted. Anxiety has you feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed. It's time to acknowledge that seeking support for yourself is not only acceptable but necessary. You deserve the time and quiet that therapy provides.
Researching therapists can be a daunting task, especially when you're used to tackling life's challenges on your own. Lately, something has shifted. Anxiety has you feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed. It's time to acknowledge that seeking support for yourself is not only acceptable but necessary. You deserve the time and quiet that therapy provides.
(678) 909-1311 View (678) 909-1311

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren D Alloy, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren D Alloy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Child/adolescent treatment specialties include: depression, anxiety, ADHD, defiance, peer difficulties, adoption issues and family conflicts.
Change is possible! For 20 years I have been helping children, adolescents, and adults to successfully navigate life's challenges.I have been privileged to witness improved self-esteem, decreased anxiety,improved relaionships and increased hope again and again! I see our work together as a joint venture and feel privileged to support, encourage, participate and help navigate as needed. I offer brief treatment for specific challenges and longer-term treatment for more complicated and/or long-standing psychological problems. My approach to treatment is eclectic and and always individually tailored to the particular client or family.
Child/adolescent treatment specialties include: depression, anxiety, ADHD, defiance, peer difficulties, adoption issues and family conflicts.
Change is possible! For 20 years I have been helping children, adolescents, and adults to successfully navigate life's challenges.I have been privileged to witness improved self-esteem, decreased anxiety,improved relaionships and increased hope again and again! I see our work together as a joint venture and feel privileged to support, encourage, participate and help navigate as needed. I offer brief treatment for specific challenges and longer-term treatment for more complicated and/or long-standing psychological problems. My approach to treatment is eclectic and and always individually tailored to the particular client or family.
(678) 660-5261 View (678) 660-5261
Photo of Katrina Todd - Core Therapy Services, LLC, LMFT, BCBA, MT-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Core Therapy Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCBA, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
-Anxiety -OCD -ADD -ADHD -Executive Functions - Adoption -ASD (children - young adult) -Early Intervention -Behavior Analysis -Family Therapy -Advocacy -Music Therapy.
"I believe in creating a safe and active environment where skills and tools needed to change or successfully transition through a life challenge can be developed and practiced. Everyone has the capability to excel and feel successful, especially when meaningful and doable steps are discovered. All of this occurs when you build trusting and genuine relationships." -Katrina
-Anxiety -OCD -ADD -ADHD -Executive Functions - Adoption -ASD (children - young adult) -Early Intervention -Behavior Analysis -Family Therapy -Advocacy -Music Therapy.
"I believe in creating a safe and active environment where skills and tools needed to change or successfully transition through a life challenge can be developed and practiced. Everyone has the capability to excel and feel successful, especially when meaningful and doable steps are discovered. All of this occurs when you build trusting and genuine relationships." -Katrina
(678) 671-3823 View (678) 671-3823
Photo of Jamie Fernandez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Fernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I wholeheartedly believe that because the majority of our wounds occur inside relationship, healing will come through relationship as well. In our work, I can offer you warmth and empathy as we gently explore the ‘why’ behind what you do while uncovering your strength and resilience. My work with clients focuses on grief and loss, trauma, relational discord, anxiety, depression, body image, life-transitions, adoption-related issues, parenthood and the intersection of faith and spirituality with day to day living.
I wholeheartedly believe that because the majority of our wounds occur inside relationship, healing will come through relationship as well. In our work, I can offer you warmth and empathy as we gently explore the ‘why’ behind what you do while uncovering your strength and resilience. My work with clients focuses on grief and loss, trauma, relational discord, anxiety, depression, body image, life-transitions, adoption-related issues, parenthood and the intersection of faith and spirituality with day to day living.
(404) 924-4456 View (404) 924-4456
Photo of Rene Chandler, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rene Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Scottdale, GA 30079
Hello! I am located in Atlanta, Georgia, but provide telehealth in MD, VA, FL, WV, & NC. I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adult individuals who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, or have experienced trauma. I have extensive experience supporting the adoption triad, and LGBTQ+ kids, families, and individuals. Rather than have a “one size fits all” perspective, I use a blend of treatment approaches to meet each client’s individual needs including play therapy, mindfulness and body-based work, CBT, ERP, EMDR, attachment and trauma-informed approaches.
Hello! I am located in Atlanta, Georgia, but provide telehealth in MD, VA, FL, WV, & NC. I specialize in working with children, teens, families, and adult individuals who have difficulty with anxiety, depression, ADHD, emotional regulation, behavioral concerns, or have experienced trauma. I have extensive experience supporting the adoption triad, and LGBTQ+ kids, families, and individuals. Rather than have a “one size fits all” perspective, I use a blend of treatment approaches to meet each client’s individual needs including play therapy, mindfulness and body-based work, CBT, ERP, EMDR, attachment and trauma-informed approaches.
(678) 737-4665 View (678) 737-4665
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs Inc. - Pathways Transition Programs, INC, MD, LPC, LCSW, LAPC, LMSW, Psychologist
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Psychologist, MD, LPC, LCSW, LAPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Our clients represent the variety and richness of our community: *Parents/families seeking assistance *Courts/child protective services hoping to interrupt inter-generational cycles of family stress, conflict * Adoption/foster care agencies/refugee resettlement agencies *Adults searching for balance resilience building to meet life's challenges.
Pathways Transition Programs is a private mental health services provider for children and their families located in DECATUR, WATKINSVILLE, and LAWRENCEVILLE, GEORGIA. From our team of 100+ medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address specific needs. We offer a comprehensive array of assessment and therapy services to foster and support change/growth through healing the wounds of trauma and life challenges, and training/skill development to enhance coping skills and build resilience. We take great pride in being a resource for all individuals and families we serve.
Our clients represent the variety and richness of our community: *Parents/families seeking assistance *Courts/child protective services hoping to interrupt inter-generational cycles of family stress, conflict * Adoption/foster care agencies/refugee resettlement agencies *Adults searching for balance resilience building to meet life's challenges.
Pathways Transition Programs is a private mental health services provider for children and their families located in DECATUR, WATKINSVILLE, and LAWRENCEVILLE, GEORGIA. From our team of 100+ medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address specific needs. We offer a comprehensive array of assessment and therapy services to foster and support change/growth through healing the wounds of trauma and life challenges, and training/skill development to enhance coping skills and build resilience. We take great pride in being a resource for all individuals and families we serve.
(404) 620-3438 View (404) 620-3438
Photo of Clerissa Cooper, MS, LPC, SEP, CDBT, CPCS, Counselor
Clerissa Cooper
Counselor, MS, LPC, SEP, CDBT, CPCS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
I help individuals and their families overcome difficulties associated with mood disorders, anxiety disorders including OCD, personality disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and the adoption triad utilizing mindfulness, cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, clinical hypnotherapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Somatic Experiencing techniques.
I value honest and thoughtful communication, which means I communicate in an attentive, supportive, compassionate, empowering, and non-judgmental manner while being authentic, direct, and transparent. I utilize validation and humor in therapy to foster connection and to create space for healthy, long-lasting change. I seek to help my clients deeply accept and understand their own thoughts, emotions, actions, and experiences so they can more effectively navigate their relationships with self and the world.
I help individuals and their families overcome difficulties associated with mood disorders, anxiety disorders including OCD, personality disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and the adoption triad utilizing mindfulness, cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, clinical hypnotherapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Somatic Experiencing techniques.
I value honest and thoughtful communication, which means I communicate in an attentive, supportive, compassionate, empowering, and non-judgmental manner while being authentic, direct, and transparent. I utilize validation and humor in therapy to foster connection and to create space for healthy, long-lasting change. I seek to help my clients deeply accept and understand their own thoughts, emotions, actions, and experiences so they can more effectively navigate their relationships with self and the world.
(404) 445-1177 View (404) 445-1177
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs In - Pathways Transition Programs, INC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
Our clients represent the variety and richness of our community: *Parents/families seeking assistance *Courts/child protective services hoping to interrupt inter-generational cycles of family stress, conflict * Adoption/foster care agencies/refugee resettlement agencies *Adults searching for balance resilience building to meet life's challenges.
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
Our clients represent the variety and richness of our community: *Parents/families seeking assistance *Courts/child protective services hoping to interrupt inter-generational cycles of family stress, conflict * Adoption/foster care agencies/refugee resettlement agencies *Adults searching for balance resilience building to meet life's challenges.
Pathways Transition Programs, INC. is a private, community based mental health services provider. We serve children, adolescents, adults, and families residing in Hall County & the surrounding counties of Georgia. PTP is able to provide therapy, paraprofessional, and psychiatry services to both English & Spanish speaking clients. We offer services in the school, home, and community setting. Our comprehensive array of assessments/therapy services foster change & growth while supporting clients to heal their wounds of trauma & life challenges. We provide training/skill development to enhance coping skills & build resilience.
(470) 236-5317 View (470) 236-5317
Photo of LaTonya Bell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaTonya Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
"Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it." As a clinician, I am always honored to be a part of the journey to healing and self-discovery. I am a licensed professional counselor who enjoys individual and family treatment with pre-teens, adolescents, adults and couples. I find inspiration in assisting individuals and families find healthy perceptions of themselves while strengthening the foundations of family and self. I have over 10 years of experience working in various clinical settings.
"Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it." As a clinician, I am always honored to be a part of the journey to healing and self-discovery. I am a licensed professional counselor who enjoys individual and family treatment with pre-teens, adolescents, adults and couples. I find inspiration in assisting individuals and families find healthy perceptions of themselves while strengthening the foundations of family and self. I have over 10 years of experience working in various clinical settings.
(678) 931-8832 View (678) 931-8832
Photo of Brandon Harold Printup, EdD, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon Harold Printup
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
We all deserve opportunity to seek help with problems that impair our health and happiness. As a therapist, my goal is to help you gain balance in your life, deepen your understanding of self/ relationships, and to empower you with skills that effectively address your specific needs. I believe that with the proper tools and support system; personal challenges can evolve to greater strength and resiliency. A welcoming and non-judgmental environment is priority in my practice. I encourage people to share their experiences, concerns, and feelings, knowing that they will be listened to and shown respect.
We all deserve opportunity to seek help with problems that impair our health and happiness. As a therapist, my goal is to help you gain balance in your life, deepen your understanding of self/ relationships, and to empower you with skills that effectively address your specific needs. I believe that with the proper tools and support system; personal challenges can evolve to greater strength and resiliency. A welcoming and non-judgmental environment is priority in my practice. I encourage people to share their experiences, concerns, and feelings, knowing that they will be listened to and shown respect.
(404) 689-1177 View (404) 689-1177
Photo of Michelle Harris Wierson - Thriveworks Woodstock, PhD, Psychologist
Thriveworks Woodstock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am a licensed psychologist who has spent the last 30 years helping people transform their lives. Using a multi-faceted approach, therapy is tailored to the needs of the person or family, in order to bring the most meaningful and lasting change. I offer support, compassion, practical techniques, and persistence in my work – along with a good dose of creativity and life wisdom. I specialize in therapy with teens and young adults aged 12-25, the parenting of young children, and couples and family therapy.
I am a licensed psychologist who has spent the last 30 years helping people transform their lives. Using a multi-faceted approach, therapy is tailored to the needs of the person or family, in order to bring the most meaningful and lasting change. I offer support, compassion, practical techniques, and persistence in my work – along with a good dose of creativity and life wisdom. I specialize in therapy with teens and young adults aged 12-25, the parenting of young children, and couples and family therapy.
(678) 203-9152 View (678) 203-9152
Photo of Diana Holberg Gordick, PhD, MS, Psychologist
Diana Holberg Gordick
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I enjoy working with people ready to create stronger skills for improving their mood, creating effectiveness in their lives, and growing better relationships. As these goals can feel like a big undertaking, I strive to create a collaborative working relationship that remains focused on your priorities and what genuinely works for you. You will find me to be non-judgmental, caring, and authentically interested in you. It can be scary and uncomfortable to reach out, but the alternative is staying the same. Change is possible.
I enjoy working with people ready to create stronger skills for improving their mood, creating effectiveness in their lives, and growing better relationships. As these goals can feel like a big undertaking, I strive to create a collaborative working relationship that remains focused on your priorities and what genuinely works for you. You will find me to be non-judgmental, caring, and authentically interested in you. It can be scary and uncomfortable to reach out, but the alternative is staying the same. Change is possible.
(404) 609-1172 View (404) 609-1172
Photo of Leslie Ann Binch, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Ann Binch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clarkston, GA 30021
Talk therapy is not enough. My approach to therapy focuses on combining cognitive and somatic therapies to strengthen connection to self, and reduce the blocks to healing. The goal is to connect to your authenticity, and have the freedom to find positive and affirming ways to enjoy relationships with self and others. The goal is to experience life without shutting down or disconnecting, and/or using destructive behaviors to reduce pain and distress. Attaining the freedom to choose what you want for yourself, begins with taking the first step.
Talk therapy is not enough. My approach to therapy focuses on combining cognitive and somatic therapies to strengthen connection to self, and reduce the blocks to healing. The goal is to connect to your authenticity, and have the freedom to find positive and affirming ways to enjoy relationships with self and others. The goal is to experience life without shutting down or disconnecting, and/or using destructive behaviors to reduce pain and distress. Attaining the freedom to choose what you want for yourself, begins with taking the first step.
(615) 274-4233 View (615) 274-4233
Photo of Trudy Post Sprunk, LMFT, LPC SEP, RPTS, EMDR, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trudy Post Sprunk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC SEP, RPTS, EMDR, CPCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
During the last 45 plus years, I have provided experiential psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults in individual, couple, family, and group settings. I have given over 800 lectures on the subjects of divorce, parenting, transgender, family play therapy, supervision, learning disabilities, grief, ADHD, play therapy, adolescence, etc. I am a registered play therapist, certified in EMDR, and provide supervision and consultation to other psychotherapists.
During the last 45 plus years, I have provided experiential psychotherapy to children, teens, and adults in individual, couple, family, and group settings. I have given over 800 lectures on the subjects of divorce, parenting, transgender, family play therapy, supervision, learning disabilities, grief, ADHD, play therapy, adolescence, etc. I am a registered play therapist, certified in EMDR, and provide supervision and consultation to other psychotherapists.
(678) 740-3813 View (678) 740-3813
Photo of James Bernard Ma'at Kynes, MDiv, LMFT, AAMFT, ACPE, Marriage & Family Therapist
James Bernard Ma'at Kynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT, AAMFT, ACPE
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am James Bernard Ma'at Kynes, an ACPE Psychotherapist, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Clinical Member and Approved Supervisor with AAMFT, and I have been in practice since 1992. I offer a safe environment that invites the seeker of care a place to gain a deeper sense of self-understanding and relief from his/her emotional, social, spiritual, or relationship distress. I offer services for individuals, couples, families, groups, and workplace organizations in hope that a process for healing and transformation with a greater sense of personal clarity can be experienced. I provide my services in-person or remotely.
I am James Bernard Ma'at Kynes, an ACPE Psychotherapist, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Clinical Member and Approved Supervisor with AAMFT, and I have been in practice since 1992. I offer a safe environment that invites the seeker of care a place to gain a deeper sense of self-understanding and relief from his/her emotional, social, spiritual, or relationship distress. I offer services for individuals, couples, families, groups, and workplace organizations in hope that a process for healing and transformation with a greater sense of personal clarity can be experienced. I provide my services in-person or remotely.
(470) 752-5862 View (470) 752-5862
Photo of Matt Ottenweller, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Ottenweller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I enjoy working with clients of all ages, backgrounds and challenges, such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, behavioral/school problems, ADHD, ODD, grief, attachment issues, and family conflict. I have over 10 years of experience and specialized training in working with children, adolescents and their families.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages, backgrounds and challenges, such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, behavioral/school problems, ADHD, ODD, grief, attachment issues, and family conflict. I have over 10 years of experience and specialized training in working with children, adolescents and their families.
(404) 948-5969 View (404) 948-5969

See more therapy options for Avondale Estates

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.