Adoption Therapists in Chicago, IL
We offer therapy rooted in the understanding of what adoption is, its significance throughout a person’s life, and how it impacts individuals and families.
Adoption is a lifelong journey with its share of joys and challenges. Those challenges can include complex emotional, psychological, and social dynamics that span from processing grief and loss to navigating one's identity and relationships. When challenges arise, we at Adoption Center of IL (ACI) provide a space for anyone impacted by adoption to receive therapy tailored to their unique experiences and stories. We provide adoption competent therapy, which promotes understanding of one’s self, story, and future in a setting where you don't have to explain to us why adoption is significant.
We offer therapy rooted in the understanding of what adoption is, its significance throughout a person’s life, and how it impacts individuals and families.
Adoption is a lifelong journey with its share of joys and challenges. Those challenges can include complex emotional, psychological, and social dynamics that span from processing grief and loss to navigating one's identity and relationships. When challenges arise, we at Adoption Center of IL (ACI) provide a space for anyone impacted by adoption to receive therapy tailored to their unique experiences and stories. We provide adoption competent therapy, which promotes understanding of one’s self, story, and future in a setting where you don't have to explain to us why adoption is significant.
My approach includes engaging families in the healing process, especially those dealing with adoption.
Are you a parent seeking support for your young child struggling with anxiety, emotional challenges, or the complexities of adoption? As a Somatic Experience therapist specializing in children, I understand how overwhelming it can be when your child has difficulty regulating emotions. I create a safe space for your child to express themselves and learn essential skills for emotional regulation through play therapy and creative arts. If you’re navigating adoption, I’m here to support every member of the adoption triangle. Together, we’ll work toward building strong, lasting bonds. Reach out, and let’s help your child thrive
My approach includes engaging families in the healing process, especially those dealing with adoption.
Are you a parent seeking support for your young child struggling with anxiety, emotional challenges, or the complexities of adoption? As a Somatic Experience therapist specializing in children, I understand how overwhelming it can be when your child has difficulty regulating emotions. I create a safe space for your child to express themselves and learn essential skills for emotional regulation through play therapy and creative arts. If you’re navigating adoption, I’m here to support every member of the adoption triangle. Together, we’ll work toward building strong, lasting bonds. Reach out, and let’s help your child thrive
Many of the issues that I have worked with residually effect your relationships, including transracial adoption, parent-child interactions, domestic violence, spirituality and faith, drug addiction, life-transition, developmental and complex trauma, codependency, and immigration and racial trauma.
I believe the quality of your relationships directly impacts the quality of your life. The therapeutic relationship can be an intimidating one but is able to enhance your unique relationships with yourself and those closest to you. I prioritize my relationship with you. I meet you where you are, ready to hear your story. Reaching out for therapy is often preceded by experiencing barriers to a relationship. I value your emotional safety and your human dignity by empathizing, accepting and supporting you along your life journey. No matter the challenges you face, I am ready to join with you in this current stage of your story.
Many of the issues that I have worked with residually effect your relationships, including transracial adoption, parent-child interactions, domestic violence, spirituality and faith, drug addiction, life-transition, developmental and complex trauma, codependency, and immigration and racial trauma.
I believe the quality of your relationships directly impacts the quality of your life. The therapeutic relationship can be an intimidating one but is able to enhance your unique relationships with yourself and those closest to you. I prioritize my relationship with you. I meet you where you are, ready to hear your story. Reaching out for therapy is often preceded by experiencing barriers to a relationship. I value your emotional safety and your human dignity by empathizing, accepting and supporting you along your life journey. No matter the challenges you face, I am ready to join with you in this current stage of your story.
Kimberly Langrehr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Waitlist for new clients
I also have particular expertise helping individuals from the adoption community (e.
As a generalist clinician, I appreciate that people seek therapy for a variety of different reasons. I take a collaborative and relational approach to therapy and do my best to provide a supportive space for clients to feel heard, express themselves, and actively work toward change.
I also have particular expertise helping individuals from the adoption community (e.
As a generalist clinician, I appreciate that people seek therapy for a variety of different reasons. I take a collaborative and relational approach to therapy and do my best to provide a supportive space for clients to feel heard, express themselves, and actively work toward change.
Sharon Steckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Some specialized areas of interest are psychedelic assisted psychotherapy, mood disorders, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, adoption, foster care, living with HIV/AIDS & Psychedelic Integration.
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. With over 20 yrs. experience as a psychotherapist, I am well versed in clinical practice. I incorporate a number of methods, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, CBT, Mindfulness, & Attachment Therapy. I'm certified in EMDR for the treatment of trauma & other painful or highly charged memories, experiences, & relationships. My use of EMDR can facilitate rapid resolution of painful memories & relationships, trauma, & change negative beliefs about yourself.
Some specialized areas of interest are psychedelic assisted psychotherapy, mood disorders, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, adoption, foster care, living with HIV/AIDS & Psychedelic Integration.
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. With over 20 yrs. experience as a psychotherapist, I am well versed in clinical practice. I incorporate a number of methods, including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, CBT, Mindfulness, & Attachment Therapy. I'm certified in EMDR for the treatment of trauma & other painful or highly charged memories, experiences, & relationships. My use of EMDR can facilitate rapid resolution of painful memories & relationships, trauma, & change negative beliefs about yourself.
More specifically, I have training and focused experience with individuals in the adoption constellation, from immigrant families, and/or immigrants themselves.
Clients I work with often feel in-between jobs, relationships, cultures, or identities. This “in-between” feeling can show up as depression, anxiety, or difficulties with relationships and indecisiveness. I believe that peace and stability comes from finding comfort in the “in-between” and not forcing yourself out. I offer space for individuals to learn more about themselves and how they show up in the many roles in their lives so they can be more themselves in all parts of their lives. (I meet with virtually with clients residing in California and Illinois).
More specifically, I have training and focused experience with individuals in the adoption constellation, from immigrant families, and/or immigrants themselves.
Clients I work with often feel in-between jobs, relationships, cultures, or identities. This “in-between” feeling can show up as depression, anxiety, or difficulties with relationships and indecisiveness. I believe that peace and stability comes from finding comfort in the “in-between” and not forcing yourself out. I offer space for individuals to learn more about themselves and how they show up in the many roles in their lives so they can be more themselves in all parts of their lives. (I meet with virtually with clients residing in California and Illinois).
I understand the struggles of post adoption and postpartum depression.
Therapy is a very intimate experience. I strive for a personal connection with my clients from the get-go. Through that relationship, I am better able to understand the motivations, hidden struggles and impulses that drive my clients, and in turn, help them to utilize their own strengths and learned techniques to successfully address the difficult issues for which they sought therapy. I have assisted clients who are going through or preparing for a life transition, experiencing depression, anxiety or mood disorders, and recovering from trauma or loss.
I understand the struggles of post adoption and postpartum depression.
Therapy is a very intimate experience. I strive for a personal connection with my clients from the get-go. Through that relationship, I am better able to understand the motivations, hidden struggles and impulses that drive my clients, and in turn, help them to utilize their own strengths and learned techniques to successfully address the difficult issues for which they sought therapy. I have assisted clients who are going through or preparing for a life transition, experiencing depression, anxiety or mood disorders, and recovering from trauma or loss.
Bree Yoo Sun Jeong McLuen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60609
I have provided gentle, person-centered, compassionate services and treatment most extensively to individuals who identify as women, people of color, immigrants, survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, criminal justice/prison, child welfare/ adoption, and athletes.
Life brings forth challenges and stressors each day. For individuals, families, and communities whose lives and histories meet at multiple intersections, managing everyday life while working toward healing and growth may present additional, unique layers and compounded difficulties. Whatever your dreams, goals, and aspirations for life and relationships are, making them a reality is possible. Healing from the past, self-love, spiritual peace, decolonization, and success are interconnected.
I have provided gentle, person-centered, compassionate services and treatment most extensively to individuals who identify as women, people of color, immigrants, survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, criminal justice/prison, child welfare/ adoption, and athletes.
Life brings forth challenges and stressors each day. For individuals, families, and communities whose lives and histories meet at multiple intersections, managing everyday life while working toward healing and growth may present additional, unique layers and compounded difficulties. Whatever your dreams, goals, and aspirations for life and relationships are, making them a reality is possible. Healing from the past, self-love, spiritual peace, decolonization, and success are interconnected.
Jodi Stelley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also an international/transracial adoptee and enjoy working with other adoptees as they explore ways adoption has shaped their view of self, family, and relationships.
I am a caring professional who strives to see each person as their whole self – mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I draw upon a deep understanding of how identity, difference, justice, and empowerment affect an individual’s mental and emotional health. I help clients learn how to manage symptoms of distress - anxiety, depression, panic - while exploring how these symptoms might be related to questions of identity, vocation, meaning, or trauma.
I am also an international/transracial adoptee and enjoy working with other adoptees as they explore ways adoption has shaped their view of self, family, and relationships.
I am a caring professional who strives to see each person as their whole self – mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. I draw upon a deep understanding of how identity, difference, justice, and empowerment affect an individual’s mental and emotional health. I help clients learn how to manage symptoms of distress - anxiety, depression, panic - while exploring how these symptoms might be related to questions of identity, vocation, meaning, or trauma.
Showing up to therapy - wholeheartedly - takes serious courage. I meet my clients’ courage with warmth, energy, and openness. I work with individuals and families across the lifespan, and have advanced training in working with members of the adoption constellation. I especially enjoy working with clients who are new to therapy; I seek to create a comfortable environment where vulnerability, humor, empathy, and playfulness can co-exist.
Showing up to therapy - wholeheartedly - takes serious courage. I meet my clients’ courage with warmth, energy, and openness. I work with individuals and families across the lifespan, and have advanced training in working with members of the adoption constellation. I especially enjoy working with clients who are new to therapy; I seek to create a comfortable environment where vulnerability, humor, empathy, and playfulness can co-exist.
Whether you are seeking ongoing counseling, a one-time consultation, parent coaching/education or a check-in every few months, the therapists at The Cradle Center for Lifelong Adoption Support are here to help.
How we make sense of our life experiences and deal with life's challenges is important for all of us. Adoption adds a layer of complexity. Issues of attachment, trauma, loss, race/identity, behavioral regulation, self-esteem and the impact of difficult/unknown early history take on added significance as children grow and mature into young adults. At The Cradle Center for Lifelong Support, I work with all members of the adoption circle My expertise is in strengthening children and their families by improving attachment, communication and understanding through individual/family therapy, parent coaching and education.
Whether you are seeking ongoing counseling, a one-time consultation, parent coaching/education or a check-in every few months, the therapists at The Cradle Center for Lifelong Adoption Support are here to help.
How we make sense of our life experiences and deal with life's challenges is important for all of us. Adoption adds a layer of complexity. Issues of attachment, trauma, loss, race/identity, behavioral regulation, self-esteem and the impact of difficult/unknown early history take on added significance as children grow and mature into young adults. At The Cradle Center for Lifelong Support, I work with all members of the adoption circle My expertise is in strengthening children and their families by improving attachment, communication and understanding through individual/family therapy, parent coaching and education.
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My work focuses on where the client wishes, offering treatment for trauma, attachment issues, anxiety, depression, adoption/foster issues, life transitions, and much more.
Therapy is unique to every person. No matter if you are a teen or an adult, there are times in our lives when we need a helping hand or person to sit with us as we process and explore our inner selves or the impact life has on us. My practice is about being there with you and offering positive regard for you and the work you are doing, and developing a space that is safe for you to explore and heal wounds. I also supervision for new counselors hoping for an integrative approach to counseling as well as focus on the client and counselor (inquire about fees).
My work focuses on where the client wishes, offering treatment for trauma, attachment issues, anxiety, depression, adoption/foster issues, life transitions, and much more.
Therapy is unique to every person. No matter if you are a teen or an adult, there are times in our lives when we need a helping hand or person to sit with us as we process and explore our inner selves or the impact life has on us. My practice is about being there with you and offering positive regard for you and the work you are doing, and developing a space that is safe for you to explore and heal wounds. I also supervision for new counselors hoping for an integrative approach to counseling as well as focus on the client and counselor (inquire about fees).
Margaret Anne Fleming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
I treat addictions, abuse, relationship and adoption issues, .
Are you looking for an experienced, local therapist for yourself or a family member? I have had extensive experience, both professionally and personally, in treating both adults and children. who have suffered loss, childhood abuse, depression and shame. I am currently offering clients a choice between teletherapy or being seen in my Oak Park office.
I treat addictions, abuse, relationship and adoption issues, .
Are you looking for an experienced, local therapist for yourself or a family member? I have had extensive experience, both professionally and personally, in treating both adults and children. who have suffered loss, childhood abuse, depression and shame. I am currently offering clients a choice between teletherapy or being seen in my Oak Park office.
Lotus Root Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
Michael Hawkins
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
I have 10+ years of experience and training in a range of areas including: complex generational trauma, issues related to adolescence, issues related to foster care / adoption, school / college-related problems, parental support, family / relational conflicts, depression, anxiety, feelings of isolation, and major life transitions.
My therapeutic style focuses on safety and empowerment. I may be the clinician, but I honor the fact that you are the expert of your own life. I build trust by wearing my heart on my sleeve. I would never ask you to risk your vulnerability if I am unwilling to risk my own. I may use humor to foster hope & ease discomfort. I welcome you to question my perspectives to improve the power of our cocreated insights. We will collaborate to develop ways for you to make new choices, break old patterns, and build more effective supports. Our work will help you unlock your potential for healing, and get you closer to the person you want to be.
I have 10+ years of experience and training in a range of areas including: complex generational trauma, issues related to adolescence, issues related to foster care / adoption, school / college-related problems, parental support, family / relational conflicts, depression, anxiety, feelings of isolation, and major life transitions.
My therapeutic style focuses on safety and empowerment. I may be the clinician, but I honor the fact that you are the expert of your own life. I build trust by wearing my heart on my sleeve. I would never ask you to risk your vulnerability if I am unwilling to risk my own. I may use humor to foster hope & ease discomfort. I welcome you to question my perspectives to improve the power of our cocreated insights. We will collaborate to develop ways for you to make new choices, break old patterns, and build more effective supports. Our work will help you unlock your potential for healing, and get you closer to the person you want to be.
Nosh Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Our team works with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of constraints including issues with attachment, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, infidelity, divorce, blended families, adoption, gender/sexual identity exploration, trauma, grief and loss, phase-of-life, self-development, multiculturalism, and immigration.
As a therapist, I believe in the power of self-awareness in helping people overcome adversity. Trained in Systems Therapy at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, my orientation is to use relationships to strengthen our understanding of one another, and of ourselves. I value the humanistic experience most of all, and strive to learn as much as possible about one's past motivations and ways of coping. I also believe that the therapeutic relationship is the key ingredient in effecting change. I use compassion and acceptance as tools to help create space for that change.
Our team works with individuals, couples, and families with a variety of constraints including issues with attachment, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, infidelity, divorce, blended families, adoption, gender/sexual identity exploration, trauma, grief and loss, phase-of-life, self-development, multiculturalism, and immigration.
As a therapist, I believe in the power of self-awareness in helping people overcome adversity. Trained in Systems Therapy at the Family Institute at Northwestern University, my orientation is to use relationships to strengthen our understanding of one another, and of ourselves. I value the humanistic experience most of all, and strive to learn as much as possible about one's past motivations and ways of coping. I also believe that the therapeutic relationship is the key ingredient in effecting change. I use compassion and acceptance as tools to help create space for that change.
Specialties: difficulties with relationships, depression and anxiety, significant life transitions, adoption and family struggles, difficulties in adolescence, emerging adulthood and young adulthood.
I specialize in providing therapy college aged adults, and young adults in their 20s and 30s who are experiencing mood and relationship difficulties. I help my clients to better understand patterns in their lives and use this insight to initiate changes in mood, intimacy/ connection, and to manage difficult emotions and challenges. The process of growth and healing is tied into the relationship between therapist and client. The quality of the "fit" is crucial. My goal is to help my clients find meaning in their struggles, understand their own symptoms, and find ways to live more fulfilling and creative lives.
Specialties: difficulties with relationships, depression and anxiety, significant life transitions, adoption and family struggles, difficulties in adolescence, emerging adulthood and young adulthood.
I specialize in providing therapy college aged adults, and young adults in their 20s and 30s who are experiencing mood and relationship difficulties. I help my clients to better understand patterns in their lives and use this insight to initiate changes in mood, intimacy/ connection, and to manage difficult emotions and challenges. The process of growth and healing is tied into the relationship between therapist and client. The quality of the "fit" is crucial. My goal is to help my clients find meaning in their struggles, understand their own symptoms, and find ways to live more fulfilling and creative lives.
Dr. Sarah Pekoc
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
Waitlist for new clients
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has the ability to heal from difficult life experiences and move forward to live a fulfilling and joyful life. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults through the healing process after they have been exposed to traumatic life events such as abuse/neglect, adoption, divorce, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, medical trauma, and other life stressors. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumas, caregivers experiencing postpartum/parenting difficulties, early childhood populations, and parent-child relationship issues.
I wholeheartedly believe that everyone has the ability to heal from difficult life experiences and move forward to live a fulfilling and joyful life. I specialize in supporting children, adolescents, and adults through the healing process after they have been exposed to traumatic life events such as abuse/neglect, adoption, divorce, grief/loss, attachment difficulties, medical trauma, and other life stressors. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumas, caregivers experiencing postpartum/parenting difficulties, early childhood populations, and parent-child relationship issues.
Dr. Ikram Hassan works with adolescents, families, and adults at Dr. Blehart & Associates which provides clients the highest level of expertise, access, and care. She believes that everyday life presents us with painful challenges as well as opportunities to heal; this awareness grounds and focuses her work as person-centered and strength-based. Her treatment style is collaborative, holistic, and draws from a variety of clinical approaches to fit the needs of her clients. She has expertise with depression, anxiety, trauma, adoption, racial identity, and challenges associated with autism.
Dr. Ikram Hassan works with adolescents, families, and adults at Dr. Blehart & Associates which provides clients the highest level of expertise, access, and care. She believes that everyday life presents us with painful challenges as well as opportunities to heal; this awareness grounds and focuses her work as person-centered and strength-based. Her treatment style is collaborative, holistic, and draws from a variety of clinical approaches to fit the needs of her clients. She has expertise with depression, anxiety, trauma, adoption, racial identity, and challenges associated with autism.
Raina Cowan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I specialize in working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment and life transitions, emerging adults, creative block, reproductive issues (infertility, miscarriage /recurrent pregnancy loss), adoption and parenting.
My therapy approach is to first find out what the client is seeking from therapy, and if they have prior experiences with therapy or art therapy. Then we can set the course, and shape it to meet their needs. I give assignments in between sessions to help clients gain confidence getting where they want to be when they leave therapy. After all, the work of living is not done in a therapy office, so life skills need to be practiced and honed outside of therapy. My work is informed by a combination of cognitive behavioral, relational/feminist, client centered and psycho-dynamic therapy, but not limited by these frameworks.
I specialize in working with people experiencing depression, anxiety, adjustment and life transitions, emerging adults, creative block, reproductive issues (infertility, miscarriage /recurrent pregnancy loss), adoption and parenting.
My therapy approach is to first find out what the client is seeking from therapy, and if they have prior experiences with therapy or art therapy. Then we can set the course, and shape it to meet their needs. I give assignments in between sessions to help clients gain confidence getting where they want to be when they leave therapy. After all, the work of living is not done in a therapy office, so life skills need to be practiced and honed outside of therapy. My work is informed by a combination of cognitive behavioral, relational/feminist, client centered and psycho-dynamic therapy, but not limited by these frameworks.
See more therapy options for Chicago
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Chicago
- Berwyn
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- Elmwood Park
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- Lakeview
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- Lincolnwood
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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.