Adoption Therapists in Lilburn, GA
![Photo of Erin M. Floyd - Erin M. Floyd, Ph.D., LLC, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0b68f0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
You place a great deal of trust in who you choose as an expert to help you and your loved ones, and I respect that. I strive to maintain a warm and inviting practice with the highest standards of confidential and personalized care. I have a Ph.D. in clinical psychology with advanced specializations in clinical child, pediatric, and family psychology. I carefully review the latest research findings and use treatments that work. My goal is to work with you as a team to help you thrive and get back to enjoying life to its fullest as soon as possible.
You place a great deal of trust in who you choose as an expert to help you and your loved ones, and I respect that. I strive to maintain a warm and inviting practice with the highest standards of confidential and personalized care. I have a Ph.D. in clinical psychology with advanced specializations in clinical child, pediatric, and family psychology. I carefully review the latest research findings and use treatments that work. My goal is to work with you as a team to help you thrive and get back to enjoying life to its fullest as soon as possible.
![Photo of Woodfin Threlkeld, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bb44b13-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are social beings. The success of our relationships is the main determinant of how healthy we are emotionally. I specialize in helping people to develop more effective relationship skills and to deal with the issues that arise when our relationships are unsuccessful. I believe that we possess the solutions to our problems. I can help you to become aware of those solutions and to develop the strength to effectively apply them.
We are social beings. The success of our relationships is the main determinant of how healthy we are emotionally. I specialize in helping people to develop more effective relationship skills and to deal with the issues that arise when our relationships are unsuccessful. I believe that we possess the solutions to our problems. I can help you to become aware of those solutions and to develop the strength to effectively apply them.
![Photo of Clerissa Cooper - The Clearing: A Healing Collective, MS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73a672f1-bc63-48bc-a26b-8657a4414965/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Clearing: A Healing Collective
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047
Welcome to the Clearing! We are a group of therapists focused on supporting individuals and families to cultivate connection, healing, and liberation. We specialize in exploring and reducing depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulties in relationships, and the impact of surviving the complications of the world around us.
Welcome to the Clearing! We are a group of therapists focused on supporting individuals and families to cultivate connection, healing, and liberation. We specialize in exploring and reducing depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulties in relationships, and the impact of surviving the complications of the world around us.
![Photo of Susan Marie Clerici - Susan Clerici Psychotherapy & Life Coaching, LMFT, ICADC, CCFC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/202d244d-d58b-4e2b-bcc4-4c960e376145/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Clerici Psychotherapy & Life Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ICADC, CCFC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lilburn, GA 30047
A note to my clients who identify as Black, Brown, Indigenous, Asian, LBGTQ+. I am Anti Racist and an ally. Working together I hear and respect your story, I know you are Personally impacted by systemic racism and discrimination. The minute you pick up that phone or send an email requesting an appointment there is courage realized. Sometimes our world shrinks when we are feeling sad or hurt and it takes courage to break through. It is my sincere belief that we are full of endless possibilities. I also know that reaching out for a guide to help become unstuck is the first step to freeing those possibilities.
A note to my clients who identify as Black, Brown, Indigenous, Asian, LBGTQ+. I am Anti Racist and an ally. Working together I hear and respect your story, I know you are Personally impacted by systemic racism and discrimination. The minute you pick up that phone or send an email requesting an appointment there is courage realized. Sometimes our world shrinks when we are feeling sad or hurt and it takes courage to break through. It is my sincere belief that we are full of endless possibilities. I also know that reaching out for a guide to help become unstuck is the first step to freeing those possibilities.
![Photo of Margaret Hodges, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29e60074-c56b-4369-961f-47b212da1e64/2/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking therapy takes courage. As a psychologist with over 30 years experience, I try to make the experience as easy as possible for my clients. It is my goal that you feel comfortable, safe and understood. I want to get to know you, your life experiences and challenges. Together, we take this information and develop a plan for creating the life you want. My clients frequently use therapy to help with problem solving and decision making. I believe my training and depth of experience make me uniquely able to understand the painful struggles my clients face.
Seeking therapy takes courage. As a psychologist with over 30 years experience, I try to make the experience as easy as possible for my clients. It is my goal that you feel comfortable, safe and understood. I want to get to know you, your life experiences and challenges. Together, we take this information and develop a plan for creating the life you want. My clients frequently use therapy to help with problem solving and decision making. I believe my training and depth of experience make me uniquely able to understand the painful struggles my clients face.
![Photo of Curtis Atkins - Atkins Mental Health, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/126fd1a9-d503-4b6c-8557-0dd21b42f1e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Atkins Mental Health, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lilburn, GA 30047 (Online Only)
Starting therapy is a difficult, exciting, scary, and rewarding step towards self growth and personal development. It's probably something you have been thinking about for a while and now you are here. Do you feel like there are changes that you need to make? Are you unhappy? Is your mental health getting in the way of your relationships, your goals? Have you been through something difficult or traumatic? The only thing standing between you and your next step is scheduling your first appointment. Let's get started. More info at atkinsmentalhealth.com/about
Starting therapy is a difficult, exciting, scary, and rewarding step towards self growth and personal development. It's probably something you have been thinking about for a while and now you are here. Do you feel like there are changes that you need to make? Are you unhappy? Is your mental health getting in the way of your relationships, your goals? Have you been through something difficult or traumatic? The only thing standing between you and your next step is scheduling your first appointment. Let's get started. More info at atkinsmentalhealth.com/about
![Photo of Jessica Donaldson - A Way of Being Psychotherapy and Consulting, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6e2eee3-cc52-452c-85e8-7770d07ee7e3/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Way of Being Psychotherapy and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Lilburn, GA 30047
Gabor Mate says trauma is anything that changes you in a way that makes your future responses to the world more limited. I truly enjoy connecting with clients in order to engage them in discovering their truth. I work with a variety of individuals, families, and couples who are seeking to live consciously and in authenticity. Whatever arises - depression, anxiety, mania, psychosis, any type of addiction, self harm, avoidance, relationship/family challenges, anger/aggression, mood instability, distraction/impulsivity, or trauma reactions we will work to connect each person to their true self.
Gabor Mate says trauma is anything that changes you in a way that makes your future responses to the world more limited. I truly enjoy connecting with clients in order to engage them in discovering their truth. I work with a variety of individuals, families, and couples who are seeking to live consciously and in authenticity. Whatever arises - depression, anxiety, mania, psychosis, any type of addiction, self harm, avoidance, relationship/family challenges, anger/aggression, mood instability, distraction/impulsivity, or trauma reactions we will work to connect each person to their true self.
![Photo of Treva Jones Lcsw Therapist, LCSW, MAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50c6a821-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Treva Jones Lcsw Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lilburn, GA 30047
Feeling overwhelmed? Do not know exactly where to start? Does life seem unfair or not fun anymore? "The stresses of it all" seem overbearing, does it appear that you have it all together but on the inside, you feel that you may be falling apart. If you have become everything to everyone except yourself and may have lost who you really are or who you would like to become. Life's opportunities come in different packaging and presentations; however, our choices, and how we manage our choices matter the most. At Healthy Life Choices, GA I work with you from right where you are inside of your journey.
Feeling overwhelmed? Do not know exactly where to start? Does life seem unfair or not fun anymore? "The stresses of it all" seem overbearing, does it appear that you have it all together but on the inside, you feel that you may be falling apart. If you have become everything to everyone except yourself and may have lost who you really are or who you would like to become. Life's opportunities come in different packaging and presentations; however, our choices, and how we manage our choices matter the most. At Healthy Life Choices, GA I work with you from right where you are inside of your journey.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Julie River, MS, LAPC, NCC, CPS, RCP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b98effb-6413-4929-94a7-a2f3a64b0c39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie River
Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC, CPS, RCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
Waitlist for new clients
I am an EMDR trained trauma therapist working with relationship challenges, addiction, trauma, adoption, identity struggles, and self-esteem issues.
Hello! I am a holistic, postmodern, creative, and non-traditional psychotherapist who takes a developmental and systems perspective on human behavior - recognizing the intersectionality of the whole person. One's unique physical, mental, emotional, social, and cultural aspects directly impact one's struggles, challenges, and goals. I work to help clients form an in-depth understanding of themselves beginning in childhood where core beliefs, attachment-patterns, and automatic thinking/behaving originates. I take an inclusive, LGBTQIA+ affirming & multicultural approach specializing in experiential and inner-child therapy.
I am an EMDR trained trauma therapist working with relationship challenges, addiction, trauma, adoption, identity struggles, and self-esteem issues.
Hello! I am a holistic, postmodern, creative, and non-traditional psychotherapist who takes a developmental and systems perspective on human behavior - recognizing the intersectionality of the whole person. One's unique physical, mental, emotional, social, and cultural aspects directly impact one's struggles, challenges, and goals. I work to help clients form an in-depth understanding of themselves beginning in childhood where core beliefs, attachment-patterns, and automatic thinking/behaving originates. I take an inclusive, LGBTQIA+ affirming & multicultural approach specializing in experiential and inner-child therapy.
![Photo of Jennifer Mejias (Bilingual), LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6366726-6d95-44f7-a723-15584b6ae874/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Mejias (Bilingual)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, GA 30043 (Online Only)
Specialties include Play therapy, EMDR, individual/family therapy for: Perinatal, Infant mental health (0-5), adoption, anxiety, and depression.
I'm available now for new clients. Treatment is about feeling better and gaining confidence to navigate life. I'm here to support you, leveraging your strengths and helping you develop new skills for an emotionally healthy life you can ENJOY. If trauma is part of your history, I'll guide you through healing safely. My approach considers your entire life context – culture, work, city, family, relationships – because it shapes who you are. Ready to embark on this journey towards well-being? Let's take the first step together and create a path for positive change.
Specialties include Play therapy, EMDR, individual/family therapy for: Perinatal, Infant mental health (0-5), adoption, anxiety, and depression.
I'm available now for new clients. Treatment is about feeling better and gaining confidence to navigate life. I'm here to support you, leveraging your strengths and helping you develop new skills for an emotionally healthy life you can ENJOY. If trauma is part of your history, I'll guide you through healing safely. My approach considers your entire life context – culture, work, city, family, relationships – because it shapes who you are. Ready to embark on this journey towards well-being? Let's take the first step together and create a path for positive change.
![Photo of Heather Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4bd01d6b-c54a-40c1-8f18-acbafd6e20c5/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a clinician at Counsel Connections (formerly named Thriveworks Counseling), it is my goal to help clients find hope, healing and wholeness. I specialize in working with women who have trauma/abuse/PTSD histories. Anxiety and depression are major focuses of the work I do. Additionally, I specialize in the adoption field, serving birth mothers/families, adoptive families, and adoptees.
As a clinician at Counsel Connections (formerly named Thriveworks Counseling), it is my goal to help clients find hope, healing and wholeness. I specialize in working with women who have trauma/abuse/PTSD histories. Anxiety and depression are major focuses of the work I do. Additionally, I specialize in the adoption field, serving birth mothers/families, adoptive families, and adoptees.
![Photo of Tangrill D Varner, LCSW, BCBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e587371-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 20 yrs of experience working with children, adolescents, teens , young adults and adults with ADHD, Autism, Adoption, Depression, Conduct Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder as well as Sexual, Physical, Emotional Abuse and Family Conflict/Divorce.
I have over 20 yrs of experience working with children, adolescents, teens , young adults and adults with ADHD, Autism, Adoption, Depression, Conduct Disorder, Bi-polar Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder as well as Sexual, Physical, Emotional Abuse and Family Conflict/Divorce.
![Photo of Melissa Browning - Pathways Transition Programs, INC, MD, LCSW, LAPC, LMSW, MFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ab2da5f-f27f-4704-a2d7-bec80a30c91a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, LCSW, LAPC, LMSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30045 (Online Only)
Our clients represent the variety and richness of our community including *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 in LAWRENCEVILLE, GA for all ages. We specialize in working with children, teens, and parents. In addition to our office, we visit clients in their homes, schools, & other locations (restrictions apply). From our team of medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address their 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.
Our clients represent the variety and richness of our community including *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 in LAWRENCEVILLE, GA for all ages. We specialize in working with children, teens, and parents. In addition to our office, we visit clients in their homes, schools, & other locations (restrictions apply). From our team of medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address their 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.
Marilyn Kirkland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30046 (Online Only)
In addition to the above, I have a background in child welfare, including all areas of adoption.
When individuals are struggling with decisions, or with difficult situations at home or work, therapy can help. You can learn new ways to deal with individuals and situations in your life. These skills will help decrease or eliminate the stress, depression, and anxiety that often accompany these issues. If you struggle with a deep personal concern, talking about it and examining your thought processes, can give you a new perspective to help resolve your conflict.
In addition to the above, I have a background in child welfare, including all areas of adoption.
When individuals are struggling with decisions, or with difficult situations at home or work, therapy can help. You can learn new ways to deal with individuals and situations in your life. These skills will help decrease or eliminate the stress, depression, and anxiety that often accompany these issues. If you struggle with a deep personal concern, talking about it and examining your thought processes, can give you a new perspective to help resolve your conflict.
![Photo of Jennifer Lee, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96713dbc-e086-431c-8b61-36f22865af1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I also support individuals experiencing family communication difficulties, life transitions, adoption/fostering and multiculturalism.
Each of us has unique strengths and skills, developed through their personal experiences and stories, but we sometimes underestimate ourselves. When we encounter obstacles or feel overwhelmed, our own abilities can seem out of reach and we begin to practice negative thoughts towards ourselves and others. I am here to help you navigate those stressors and burdens, while supporting you towards gaining a deeper understanding of your own identity. It would be my privilege to provide you with a safe space to explore your narrative and to walk with you on your mental health journey!
I also support individuals experiencing family communication difficulties, life transitions, adoption/fostering and multiculturalism.
Each of us has unique strengths and skills, developed through their personal experiences and stories, but we sometimes underestimate ourselves. When we encounter obstacles or feel overwhelmed, our own abilities can seem out of reach and we begin to practice negative thoughts towards ourselves and others. I am here to help you navigate those stressors and burdens, while supporting you towards gaining a deeper understanding of your own identity. It would be my privilege to provide you with a safe space to explore your narrative and to walk with you on your mental health journey!
![Photo of Pathways Transition Programs In - Pathways Transition Programs, INC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67fb9d63-d471-447a-9d1b-dfe827b6c472/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lawrenceville, GA 30045 (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.
![Photo of Brooke D. Sitzmann-McLoughlin, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a828244-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with most life issues including, but not limited to, self-growth, depression, anxiety, relationship and family problems, spirituality, cutting, adoption, trauma, loss, ADHD, adolescent and family concerns, eating concerns, college transition, retirement transition, and bipolar disorder.
I view my clients as fellow human beings in search of some type of change. For one reason or another, they feel stuck or unable to get where they want. Together we work towards growth by identifying the issues involved, establishing hopes and goals, and increasing awareness of recurring patterns that maintain dysfunction. I find that often these patterns were somehow adaptive, but are now "outdated" for life's current situation. As awareness of one's desires, perceptions, fears, and strengths increase, doors often begin to open. There are more options and more opportunities for change and connection with others.
I work with most life issues including, but not limited to, self-growth, depression, anxiety, relationship and family problems, spirituality, cutting, adoption, trauma, loss, ADHD, adolescent and family concerns, eating concerns, college transition, retirement transition, and bipolar disorder.
I view my clients as fellow human beings in search of some type of change. For one reason or another, they feel stuck or unable to get where they want. Together we work towards growth by identifying the issues involved, establishing hopes and goals, and increasing awareness of recurring patterns that maintain dysfunction. I find that often these patterns were somehow adaptive, but are now "outdated" for life's current situation. As awareness of one's desires, perceptions, fears, and strengths increase, doors often begin to open. There are more options and more opportunities for change and connection with others.
![Photo of Sheena Kelly, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6fa3ffa-5196-4152-afb3-28c1e9d584a6/2/320x400.png)
Sheena Kelly is a licensed professional counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Sheena has worked in substance abuse facilities, Community Agencies, and Adoption agencies to develop an overall perspective on individual experiences. Sheena has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which gives her more tools to aid in the client's journey.
Sheena Kelly is a licensed professional counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Sheena has worked in substance abuse facilities, Community Agencies, and Adoption agencies to develop an overall perspective on individual experiences. Sheena has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which gives her more tools to aid in the client's journey.
![Photo of Katrina Todd - Core Therapy Services, LLC, LMFT, BCBA, MT-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4084803b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Core Therapy Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCBA, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Tucker, GA 30084
-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
![Photo of Kate Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9be8bc42-f8f6-4f6a-a5fe-3f04cc300081/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
See more therapy options for Lilburn
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Lilburn
- Chamblee
- Decatur
- Duluth
- Dunwoody
- Grayson
- Lawrenceville
- Lithonia
- Norcross
- Peachtree Corners
- Snellville
- Stone Mountain
- Tucker
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.