Adoption Therapists in Sandy Springs, GA

Photo of Maggy Simpson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maggy Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I’m so glad you are here! My name is Maggy and I’m a clinical social worker licensed in Georgia and South Carolina. I am currently accepting new teen and adult clients in person or online. In my practice, I mainly work with adopted individuals navigating identity, search and reunion, adoptive/biological family relations, attachment issues and other adoption-specific challenges. I also work with individuals wanting to process traumatic experiences through the use of EMDR, those navigating family of origin issues, life stressors and anxiety.
I’m so glad you are here! My name is Maggy and I’m a clinical social worker licensed in Georgia and South Carolina. I am currently accepting new teen and adult clients in person or online. In my practice, I mainly work with adopted individuals navigating identity, search and reunion, adoptive/biological family relations, attachment issues and other adoption-specific challenges. I also work with individuals wanting to process traumatic experiences through the use of EMDR, those navigating family of origin issues, life stressors and anxiety.
(470) 412-9467 View (470) 412-9467
Photo of Melanie White Syas, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie White Syas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Much of my clinical work has focused on child and adolescent treatment and I have addressed a range of concerns including ADHD, substance use, adoption, anxiety, anger, risky behaviors, and trauma.
Do you find yourself facing a chasm between where you are now and where you want to be? I'm here to support you in recognizing and leveraging your strengths to bridge that divide. I hope to come alongside you to tackle challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, loss, or any other obstacles hindering your path to a fulfilling and joyful life. I strongly believe in the transformative power of relationships. My goal is to cultivate a positive, collaborative therapeutic relationship with you and, in turn, support you in strengthening your relationships with others. My approach is empathetic, accepting, and supportive.
Much of my clinical work has focused on child and adolescent treatment and I have addressed a range of concerns including ADHD, substance use, adoption, anxiety, anger, risky behaviors, and trauma.
Do you find yourself facing a chasm between where you are now and where you want to be? I'm here to support you in recognizing and leveraging your strengths to bridge that divide. I hope to come alongside you to tackle challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, loss, or any other obstacles hindering your path to a fulfilling and joyful life. I strongly believe in the transformative power of relationships. My goal is to cultivate a positive, collaborative therapeutic relationship with you and, in turn, support you in strengthening your relationships with others. My approach is empathetic, accepting, and supportive.
(470) 828-3383 View (470) 828-3383
Photo of Susan P Richardson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan P Richardson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30327
Working with adoptive families and all those within the adoption constellation has given me in-depth understanding and empathy around the unique challenges and stressors parents and children face.
I have a deep passion for the healing, resilience, and growth of children and families. My clients are parents and families who may feel that they are at the end of their rope with their children and struggling to find ways to help them heal, connect, and grow. It is an honor to join clients and be a part of helping to build greater resiliency, peace of mind and relationship satisfaction. While adoption is one of my core specialties, the issues of connection, attachment, emotional regulation, and relational healing are common to everyone, and pervasive in our mood and anxiety levels. I welcome all wanting to improve relationships.
Working with adoptive families and all those within the adoption constellation has given me in-depth understanding and empathy around the unique challenges and stressors parents and children face.
I have a deep passion for the healing, resilience, and growth of children and families. My clients are parents and families who may feel that they are at the end of their rope with their children and struggling to find ways to help them heal, connect, and grow. It is an honor to join clients and be a part of helping to build greater resiliency, peace of mind and relationship satisfaction. While adoption is one of my core specialties, the issues of connection, attachment, emotional regulation, and relational healing are common to everyone, and pervasive in our mood and anxiety levels. I welcome all wanting to improve relationships.
(678) 658-2037 View (678) 658-2037
Photo of Julie River, MS, LAPC, NCC, CPS, RCP, Counselor
Julie River
Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC, CPS, RCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30319
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.
(470) 980-7791 View (470) 980-7791
Photo of Clerissa Cooper, MS, LPC, SEP, CDBT, CPCS, Counselor
Clerissa Cooper
Counselor, MS, LPC, SEP, CDBT, CPCS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
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 Katuschka Rakovec, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katuschka Rakovec
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
There are few things braver than acknowledging when we need help and can no longer do life on our own. As a therapist, I count it my highest privilege to be a part of your story, to come alongside you in the midst of pain, hurt, confusion, loss, or tension, and to help you make sense of it all. I have five key concepts that motivate me as a therapist: story, space, acknowledgement, celebration, and growth. Stories matter. Including yours. And your story isn’t finished yet. Every time we meet, I want you to know and experience that this is your space, a space where you are free and safe to bring any and all of who you are.
There are few things braver than acknowledging when we need help and can no longer do life on our own. As a therapist, I count it my highest privilege to be a part of your story, to come alongside you in the midst of pain, hurt, confusion, loss, or tension, and to help you make sense of it all. I have five key concepts that motivate me as a therapist: story, space, acknowledgement, celebration, and growth. Stories matter. Including yours. And your story isn’t finished yet. Every time we meet, I want you to know and experience that this is your space, a space where you are free and safe to bring any and all of who you are.
(678) 932-0786 View (678) 932-0786
Photo of Peggy K Morehouse, LMFT, LCSW, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peggy K Morehouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I am an experienced therapist who has worked with hundreds of individuals and couples, I offer an empathetic, collaborative environment for your journey towards self-improvement and a more fulfilling life. With focus on couples, individuals and family therapy, I can assist you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, transition, divorce, blended family dynamics, women's issues and more. I tailor a results-oriented approach to each individual's specific needs to help them attain goals and personal growth.
I am an experienced therapist who has worked with hundreds of individuals and couples, I offer an empathetic, collaborative environment for your journey towards self-improvement and a more fulfilling life. With focus on couples, individuals and family therapy, I can assist you with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, transition, divorce, blended family dynamics, women's issues and more. I tailor a results-oriented approach to each individual's specific needs to help them attain goals and personal growth.
(770) 574-6294 View (770) 574-6294
Photo of Dr. Erinisha L. Johnson, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Erinisha L. Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Are you feeling stressed, uncertain, anxious, and overwhelmed by daily stressors or life transitions? Maybe you are experiencing emotional stressors, social deficits, or connection/relationship difficulties? My goal as a therapist is to help you develop a creative plan to learn and implement coping skills to overcome these struggles. I treat clients from all walks of life and of all ages. I treat a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, depression, grief, anger, work or school issues, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, behavioral issues, and marital issues including divorce.
Are you feeling stressed, uncertain, anxious, and overwhelmed by daily stressors or life transitions? Maybe you are experiencing emotional stressors, social deficits, or connection/relationship difficulties? My goal as a therapist is to help you develop a creative plan to learn and implement coping skills to overcome these struggles. I treat clients from all walks of life and of all ages. I treat a wide range of issues including anxiety, stress, depression, grief, anger, work or school issues, relationship issues, trauma, parenting, behavioral issues, and marital issues including divorce.
(404) 236-6498 View (404) 236-6498
Photo of Tarra Lynn Ray, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tarra Lynn Ray
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Tarra Ray MALPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her non traditional approach to psychotherapy is practical and down to Earth. She relays complex therapeutic ideas in ways that make them “real” and easy to incorporate into everyday life. She is committed to assisting individuals with overcoming life’s difficulties and becoming better.
Tarra Ray MALPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Her non traditional approach to psychotherapy is practical and down to Earth. She relays complex therapeutic ideas in ways that make them “real” and easy to incorporate into everyday life. She is committed to assisting individuals with overcoming life’s difficulties and becoming better.
(404) 846-1031 View (404) 846-1031
Photo of Franchesca Marie Cardona - Vos Vita Counseling, LPC, CPCS, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vos Vita Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
There are times where we need a bit more support and perhaps an unbiased non-judgmental person to offer that lending ear. Depression, anxiety and stressors can be debilitating for anyone who has been affected by it regardless of age, gender or ethnicity. Therapy is a journey that can offer that support in which the therapist and client work together collaboratively in care. We will both row that boat together to get you to your established goal.
There are times where we need a bit more support and perhaps an unbiased non-judgmental person to offer that lending ear. Depression, anxiety and stressors can be debilitating for anyone who has been affected by it regardless of age, gender or ethnicity. Therapy is a journey that can offer that support in which the therapist and client work together collaboratively in care. We will both row that boat together to get you to your established goal.
(678) 967-0790 View (678) 967-0790
Photo of Sunya Kapidya, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunya Kapidya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I am a therapist in Atlanta, GA with over 5 years of experience in many different settings! I have been lucky enough to receive training in a wide variety of areas and specialties through my time working at hospitals, hospice, as well as therapy and coaching programs, where I worked with patients of all ages, backgrounds and diagnoses. I believe that each and every one of us have the answers we seek within us. I look forward to helping you explore yourself and being on your journey of healing with you, so you are able to bring out the best version of yourself and live your healthiest and happiest reality!
I am a therapist in Atlanta, GA with over 5 years of experience in many different settings! I have been lucky enough to receive training in a wide variety of areas and specialties through my time working at hospitals, hospice, as well as therapy and coaching programs, where I worked with patients of all ages, backgrounds and diagnoses. I believe that each and every one of us have the answers we seek within us. I look forward to helping you explore yourself and being on your journey of healing with you, so you are able to bring out the best version of yourself and live your healthiest and happiest reality!
(470) 319-3056 View (470) 319-3056
Photo of Counseling Services of Atlanta - Counseling Services of Atlanta, Licensed Professional Counselor
Counseling Services of Atlanta
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30350
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
Counseling Services of Atlanta offers individual, couples, family, and group therapy. We offer therapy and counseling services for both adults and children of all ages including video sessions. We now have 4 male therapists and 20 female therapists! We can treat a wide variety of mental health concerns and sessions are available by phone if needed. We are centrally located to provide services for Marietta, Smyrna, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, Austell, Mableton, Dallas, Douglasville, Hiram, Acworth, Atlanta, Peachtree Corners, Lawrenceville, Alpharetta, Roswell, Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Duluth, and Tucker areas.
(678) 771-6943 View (678) 771-6943
Photo of Holly D McNinch, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly D McNinch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
As a counselor, I believe that working through issues such as depression, anxiety, co-dependency, addictions... in present time is very important, along with examining wounds from childhood that are barriers to moving forward. Through this work, healing can occur with understanding, self-compassion, authenticity, and positive change. Most people come to therapy related to feelings based on fear or pain. I provide a warm and compassionate place that allows my clients to openly share and have a voice that is respected and heard. I look forward to hearing your story.
As a counselor, I believe that working through issues such as depression, anxiety, co-dependency, addictions... in present time is very important, along with examining wounds from childhood that are barriers to moving forward. Through this work, healing can occur with understanding, self-compassion, authenticity, and positive change. Most people come to therapy related to feelings based on fear or pain. I provide a warm and compassionate place that allows my clients to openly share and have a voice that is respected and heard. I look forward to hearing your story.
(404) 381-8007 View (404) 381-8007
Photo of Kristen N Sessoms, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristen N Sessoms
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Hello, my name is Kristen Sessoms. I have a heart for helping those who feel unheard, lost, helpless, and alone. I assist individuals who have suffered from various degrees of trauma. My ultimate goal is to provide a safe open space to process and release. Any individual who needs assistance finding their voice can have comfort in the fact that I genuinely desire to see all of my clients break every chain that has kept them bounded. By providing tangible interventions that teach emotional regulation, emotional awareness, and distress tolerance my clients will take something constructive away every session.
Hello, my name is Kristen Sessoms. I have a heart for helping those who feel unheard, lost, helpless, and alone. I assist individuals who have suffered from various degrees of trauma. My ultimate goal is to provide a safe open space to process and release. Any individual who needs assistance finding their voice can have comfort in the fact that I genuinely desire to see all of my clients break every chain that has kept them bounded. By providing tangible interventions that teach emotional regulation, emotional awareness, and distress tolerance my clients will take something constructive away every session.
(404) 998-4269 View (404) 998-4269
Photo of Karen Kallis, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Kallis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
I believe that we are all resilient to overcome difficult circumstances. Sometimes we need help in reclaiming those skills and finding new understanding to function in our environment. I am grateful to work with children,adolescents, and adults with their life challenges. I am dedicated to help you feel empowered by applying new skills . We will work together to discover a meaningful belonging in your environment; overcome feelings of inferiority; and learn new strategies that benefit you. I help you to feel a more genuine connection to yourself and others through compassionate acceptance and reframing negative thoughts to create more positive choices.
I believe that we are all resilient to overcome difficult circumstances. Sometimes we need help in reclaiming those skills and finding new understanding to function in our environment. I am grateful to work with children,adolescents, and adults with their life challenges. I am dedicated to help you feel empowered by applying new skills . We will work together to discover a meaningful belonging in your environment; overcome feelings of inferiority; and learn new strategies that benefit you. I help you to feel a more genuine connection to yourself and others through compassionate acceptance and reframing negative thoughts to create more positive choices.
(404) 865-3825 View (404) 865-3825
Photo of Marilyn Denise Grayned Price, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marilyn Denise Grayned Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30328
Marilyn D. Grayned Price, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW is the founder and President of Ms. and Mr. Little Ones, Incorporated. Marilyn's dedication to empowering individuals can best be acknowledged by her extensive background domestically and abroad. She has dedicated over 20 years assisting individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds using evidence-based practices that have led to healthy and sustainable positive outcomes. Marilyn is a servant to the community and believes paying it forward is the way to empower individuals and families to obtain their highest potential and change social injustice.
Marilyn D. Grayned Price, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW is the founder and President of Ms. and Mr. Little Ones, Incorporated. Marilyn's dedication to empowering individuals can best be acknowledged by her extensive background domestically and abroad. She has dedicated over 20 years assisting individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds using evidence-based practices that have led to healthy and sustainable positive outcomes. Marilyn is a servant to the community and believes paying it forward is the way to empower individuals and families to obtain their highest potential and change social injustice.
(240) 249-8699 View (240) 249-8699
Photo of Wendy L Dickinson, PhD, Psychologist
Wendy L Dickinson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
My caseload is composed of high- achieving men, CEOs, baby boomers, and clients facing the unique challenges of high affluence or celebrity/public life. My clients are looking for a counseling experience that is tailored to their unique needs. I specialize in clinical issues as addictions, crises, trauma, leadership development, stress management, maximizing productivity, divorce, finances, retirement transition and career counseling. I am experienced at stepping into crisis situations with individuals and groups to help them navigate "next steps" as well as long term recovery strategy. I do interviews with the media on request.
My caseload is composed of high- achieving men, CEOs, baby boomers, and clients facing the unique challenges of high affluence or celebrity/public life. My clients are looking for a counseling experience that is tailored to their unique needs. I specialize in clinical issues as addictions, crises, trauma, leadership development, stress management, maximizing productivity, divorce, finances, retirement transition and career counseling. I am experienced at stepping into crisis situations with individuals and groups to help them navigate "next steps" as well as long term recovery strategy. I do interviews with the media on request.
(678) 271-8263 View (678) 271-8263
Photo of Rebecca Johnson Osei, MA, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Rebecca Johnson Osei
Psychologist, MA, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sandy Springs, GA 30338
Waitlist for new clients
Many people have discovered the benefits of psychotherapy. Some may be dealing with life transitions, others with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, while some just want a safe place to express their thoughts and work through their feelings. Rebecca Johnson Osei, Psy.D., provides clients with a neutral, judgement-free environment where they can learn and grow without social pressures. Concierge therapy at it's best, Dr. Osei will provide in-home and mobile therapy to residents of the Atlanta metro area, allowing you to remain in the comfort of your own home.
Many people have discovered the benefits of psychotherapy. Some may be dealing with life transitions, others with depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, while some just want a safe place to express their thoughts and work through their feelings. Rebecca Johnson Osei, Psy.D., provides clients with a neutral, judgement-free environment where they can learn and grow without social pressures. Concierge therapy at it's best, Dr. Osei will provide in-home and mobile therapy to residents of the Atlanta metro area, allowing you to remain in the comfort of your own home.
(404) 620-4773 View (404) 620-4773
Photo of Marlene Sukiennik, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marlene Sukiennik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Waitlist for new clients
For some, change can be difficult. As a clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience, I commit to helping you make that desired change in a safe and comfortable setting. I will partner with you to identify your needs, set your expectations and accomplish your goals. During therapy, I will help you understand your dynamics and focus on your strengths as you reach solutions.
For some, change can be difficult. As a clinical social worker with over 30 years of experience, I commit to helping you make that desired change in a safe and comfortable setting. I will partner with you to identify your needs, set your expectations and accomplish your goals. During therapy, I will help you understand your dynamics and focus on your strengths as you reach solutions.
(678) 619-1750 View (678) 619-1750
Photo of Joni Edwards Prince, PhD, Psychologist
Joni Edwards Prince
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sandy Springs, GA 30342
Not accepting new clients
Ours is a stressful world and anxiety disorders is one of my specialties. It's important to directly work with both the sources of stress and your stress responses (rapid heart rate, breathing difficulty, etc) to help you feel more in control and happier with life. I use cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness strategies in my therapy. The most important key to successful therapy is the relationship between us. This collaboration, our working together, gets things off on the right foot in helping you work on the issues you brought to therapy.
Ours is a stressful world and anxiety disorders is one of my specialties. It's important to directly work with both the sources of stress and your stress responses (rapid heart rate, breathing difficulty, etc) to help you feel more in control and happier with life. I use cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness strategies in my therapy. The most important key to successful therapy is the relationship between us. This collaboration, our working together, gets things off on the right foot in helping you work on the issues you brought to therapy.
(404) 445-2362 View (404) 445-2362
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See more therapy options for Sandy Springs

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.