Adoption Therapists in Peoria, IL

Photo of Hannah Dobson, MA, ALMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hannah Dobson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
I have previous experience in the mental health therapy field including work with survivors of abuse, crisis intervention, adoption, trauma, grief, and community-based therapy for children, adolescents, couples, and families.
My approach to therapy is holistic and collaborative. With a listening ear, my commitment to you is to use the knowledge, insight, perspective and tools I have learned as a professional therapist to partner with you to gain greater self-awareness, manage stress more effectively and be empowered to find positive paths forward. It is my goal to help people of all ages, backgrounds and sexual orientations succeed in achieving their desired goals. I understand the importance of finding connection with your therapist. When seeking help, one often feels vulnerable. I will provide a safe space as we process struggles towards resolution.
I have previous experience in the mental health therapy field including work with survivors of abuse, crisis intervention, adoption, trauma, grief, and community-based therapy for children, adolescents, couples, and families.
My approach to therapy is holistic and collaborative. With a listening ear, my commitment to you is to use the knowledge, insight, perspective and tools I have learned as a professional therapist to partner with you to gain greater self-awareness, manage stress more effectively and be empowered to find positive paths forward. It is my goal to help people of all ages, backgrounds and sexual orientations succeed in achieving their desired goals. I understand the importance of finding connection with your therapist. When seeking help, one often feels vulnerable. I will provide a safe space as we process struggles towards resolution.
(309) 245-8584 View (309) 245-8584
Photo of Andrea (Andie) Coston, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea (Andie) Coston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61601
Waitlist for new clients
Bessel Van der Kolk's Intensive Trauma Treatment Course as well as in TF-CBT, Sand Tray, and I am an adoption competent therapist.
I specialize in working within the trauma, adoption, foster care, Autism/ADHD/Neurodiverse communities. Knowing that lived experiences within these communities are affected by other systems and struggles, I also have a strong focus on attachment, identity processing, chronic pain, other disabilities, religious trauma and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Bessel Van der Kolk's Intensive Trauma Treatment Course as well as in TF-CBT, Sand Tray, and I am an adoption competent therapist.
I specialize in working within the trauma, adoption, foster care, Autism/ADHD/Neurodiverse communities. Knowing that lived experiences within these communities are affected by other systems and struggles, I also have a strong focus on attachment, identity processing, chronic pain, other disabilities, religious trauma and the LGBTQIA+ community.
(309) 490-3060 x4 View (309) 490-3060 x4
Photo of Samar Barlota, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samar Barlota
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my personal experience as a first-generation immigrant and clinical background in adoption, trauma, and cancer care give me a unique perspective with cultural challenges that ethnic minorities may face and If you're determined to break free from unhealthy choices and strive for a better life, then reach out to me!.
Facing problems in your home life or relationships? Struggling to feel heard, understood, connected? Has the spark faded as the grind of life crowds out time together? Worried that something is wrong, but can’t quite put your finger on it—leaving you feeling lonely, depressed, anxious, and afraid? Has your trust been violated? Are people telling you it’s time to move on, but you feel conflicted? If you are at the end of your rope, I can help. I can guide you in learning how to connect with one another, rebuild trust, resolve conflicts, and become fully present with family at the end of a hard day’s work.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my personal experience as a first-generation immigrant and clinical background in adoption, trauma, and cancer care give me a unique perspective with cultural challenges that ethnic minorities may face and If you're determined to break free from unhealthy choices and strive for a better life, then reach out to me!.
Facing problems in your home life or relationships? Struggling to feel heard, understood, connected? Has the spark faded as the grind of life crowds out time together? Worried that something is wrong, but can’t quite put your finger on it—leaving you feeling lonely, depressed, anxious, and afraid? Has your trust been violated? Are people telling you it’s time to move on, but you feel conflicted? If you are at the end of your rope, I can help. I can guide you in learning how to connect with one another, rebuild trust, resolve conflicts, and become fully present with family at the end of a hard day’s work.
(309) 250-1150 View (309) 250-1150
Photo of Sandi Kellerstrass, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sandi Kellerstrass
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61603
Sandi Kellerstrass, owner of and therapist for Syndeo Counseling is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nine years of therapeutic experience. She holds a BA in Leadership and Management and an MA in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. Sandi has prior field experience in community-based counseling, foster care and adoption preservation.
Sandi Kellerstrass, owner of and therapist for Syndeo Counseling is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) with nine years of therapeutic experience. She holds a BA in Leadership and Management and an MA in Counseling from Lincoln Christian University. Sandi has prior field experience in community-based counseling, foster care and adoption preservation.
(309) 312-9010 View (309) 312-9010
Photo of Jori Sparry - One Counseling and Wellness, LMFT, LCSW, LCPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
One Counseling and Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61601
At ONE we have professionals that specialize in anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, school issues, chronic pain, fertility, military population, alcohol and substance use, foster care and adoption, life transitions, stress management, mood disorders, postpartum, spectrum disorders and mediation.
At ONE we believe in health and wellness for individuals and families. We offer counseling for individuals, couples, families and children. Our qualified professionals have wide arrange of specialties to help through times of stress and crisis or to work on achieving optimum mental and physical health. ONE offers counseling, mediation, SAP services as well as EMDR. We believe in the wellness model that works with all the unique pieces that make up your ONE life. See what ONE has to offer you and your family.
At ONE we have professionals that specialize in anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, school issues, chronic pain, fertility, military population, alcohol and substance use, foster care and adoption, life transitions, stress management, mood disorders, postpartum, spectrum disorders and mediation.
At ONE we believe in health and wellness for individuals and families. We offer counseling for individuals, couples, families and children. Our qualified professionals have wide arrange of specialties to help through times of stress and crisis or to work on achieving optimum mental and physical health. ONE offers counseling, mediation, SAP services as well as EMDR. We believe in the wellness model that works with all the unique pieces that make up your ONE life. See what ONE has to offer you and your family.
(309) 606-4614 View (309) 606-4614
Photo of Michael Hawkins, LCPC
Michael Hawkins
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614  (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.
(312) 766-6959 View (312) 766-6959
Photo of Caleb H Friedrich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caleb H Friedrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61602
I have served the Peoria area in various therapeutic roles over the past 8 years working with children and adolescents in residential and community-based programs. These experiences have provided me with a wealth of clinical knowledge and anecdotal experiences to provide each client with a holistic approach that addresses all factors of their functioning. Through this, I am able to match clients with their identified goals and actualize their ideal self to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Every client has the capability to achieve their goals, and I provide the framework to assist them in reaching these goals.
I have served the Peoria area in various therapeutic roles over the past 8 years working with children and adolescents in residential and community-based programs. These experiences have provided me with a wealth of clinical knowledge and anecdotal experiences to provide each client with a holistic approach that addresses all factors of their functioning. Through this, I am able to match clients with their identified goals and actualize their ideal self to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Every client has the capability to achieve their goals, and I provide the framework to assist them in reaching these goals.
(309) 328-8594 View (309) 328-8594
Photo of Marina Callozzo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marina Callozzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61605
Doing the work it takes to find the right therapist when your mind and heart are struggling and in need of that help takes an enormous amount of strength and hope. As a highly experienced clinical social worker, my goal is to bring my wide-range of experience with therapeutic modalities and diverse populations to capitalize on your strengths and hope. I work from a humanistic, trauma-informed and strengths-based perspective. While I have experience ranging from counseling people living with varying degrees of mental illness, to refugees from conflict zones, and survivors of Queer hate motivated violence.
Doing the work it takes to find the right therapist when your mind and heart are struggling and in need of that help takes an enormous amount of strength and hope. As a highly experienced clinical social worker, my goal is to bring my wide-range of experience with therapeutic modalities and diverse populations to capitalize on your strengths and hope. I work from a humanistic, trauma-informed and strengths-based perspective. While I have experience ranging from counseling people living with varying degrees of mental illness, to refugees from conflict zones, and survivors of Queer hate motivated violence.
(312) 584-4119 View (312) 584-4119
Photo of Allison Rackow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Rackow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614  (Online Only)
Are the challenges of parenting seeming to outweigh the joy of parenting lately? Are you struggling to keep up with all of the modern-day expectations of parenting? You’re not alone! Parenting is inherently challenging & sometimes we need a space where we can be honest about what frustrates us in parenting & work through the things about our children (or our spouse!) that keep us up at night.
Are the challenges of parenting seeming to outweigh the joy of parenting lately? Are you struggling to keep up with all of the modern-day expectations of parenting? You’re not alone! Parenting is inherently challenging & sometimes we need a space where we can be honest about what frustrates us in parenting & work through the things about our children (or our spouse!) that keep us up at night.
(708) 554-6887 View (708) 554-6887
Photo of Jenni Brooks, PhD, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Jenni Brooks
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61604
Life is hard and we all can use a little help. That is why I chose this role in life and I can help you through any of your life struggles. Helping you recognize your own worth and strengths, and providing insight and tools can help you navigate anything that comes your way. I can also help you work through what you have already been through that just can't seem to subside or allow you to live your best life. I look forward to working with you and/or your family.
Life is hard and we all can use a little help. That is why I chose this role in life and I can help you through any of your life struggles. Helping you recognize your own worth and strengths, and providing insight and tools can help you navigate anything that comes your way. I can also help you work through what you have already been through that just can't seem to subside or allow you to live your best life. I look forward to working with you and/or your family.
(309) 928-0179 View (309) 928-0179
Photo of Stacey J Munoz, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Stacey J Munoz
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
I have several years of experience in working with children who are experiencing difficulty in maintaining good behavior in school and at home. Adolescents who are struggling to maintain a safe and stable mood that includes self harmful behavior, poor self esteem, and anger. Adults who are struggling to overcome depressive symptoms, anxiety issues and family issues.
I have several years of experience in working with children who are experiencing difficulty in maintaining good behavior in school and at home. Adolescents who are struggling to maintain a safe and stable mood that includes self harmful behavior, poor self esteem, and anger. Adults who are struggling to overcome depressive symptoms, anxiety issues and family issues.
(309) 376-8143 View (309) 376-8143
Photo of Audrey Ann LeMasters, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Ann LeMasters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
I strive to touch the lives of the people I serve in a way that leaves them feeling valued, respected, and better able to face their personal challenges and struggles. I work from a strength based perspective. This simply means I encourage people to reconnect with their inner strengths and passions learning to engage strengths and values more effectively. Basically, it is often a matter of identifying what is already working for an individual or family and doing more of it. Through our strengths, we have the best potential to overcome our challenges.
I strive to touch the lives of the people I serve in a way that leaves them feeling valued, respected, and better able to face their personal challenges and struggles. I work from a strength based perspective. This simply means I encourage people to reconnect with their inner strengths and passions learning to engage strengths and values more effectively. Basically, it is often a matter of identifying what is already working for an individual or family and doing more of it. Through our strengths, we have the best potential to overcome our challenges.
(309) 857-0169 View (309) 857-0169
Photo of Alyssa Hoey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Hoey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61615
Deciding to start therapy is a brave, difficult decision! You may find you are in a situation where you feel like you are stuck, have no where to turn, or are navigating some of the most difficult times of your life. I find that people are looking to be heard, to feel safe, and to find support. Having the experience of being listened to, of being validated, and being supported can be the beginning of the process of healing. I work to create a warm, safe, and open therapeutic space for you to bring any emotion you may be feeling. Together, we can navigate the challenges you are facing and work towards your path to healing.
Deciding to start therapy is a brave, difficult decision! You may find you are in a situation where you feel like you are stuck, have no where to turn, or are navigating some of the most difficult times of your life. I find that people are looking to be heard, to feel safe, and to find support. Having the experience of being listened to, of being validated, and being supported can be the beginning of the process of healing. I work to create a warm, safe, and open therapeutic space for you to bring any emotion you may be feeling. Together, we can navigate the challenges you are facing and work towards your path to healing.
(309) 248-6281 View (309) 248-6281
Photo of Tamara Hayden, LCPC , Counselor
Tamara Hayden
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61604
It's important that you find someone that you connect with. We will collaborate to define goals, learn coping skills to manage issues of concern and increase your ability to experience joy. Ex: academics, addiction, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, grief, occupational issues, relationship issues, suicide prevention, trauma, etc.
It's important that you find someone that you connect with. We will collaborate to define goals, learn coping skills to manage issues of concern and increase your ability to experience joy. Ex: academics, addiction, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, grief, occupational issues, relationship issues, suicide prevention, trauma, etc.
(309) 252-5025 View (309) 252-5025
Photo of Paul Schellenberg, LCPC, Counselor
Paul Schellenberg
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Everyone experiences pain in life and my goal is to keep the pain from becoming a person's identity. Our daily experiences are both joyful and painful. How we cope with these experience, either through healthy or unhealthy coping skills, will determine our new thought processes. These thought processes lead to self beliefs. I enjoy joining people in this moment of their lives and helping them redefine coping skills to rid themselves of related negative self beliefs.
Everyone experiences pain in life and my goal is to keep the pain from becoming a person's identity. Our daily experiences are both joyful and painful. How we cope with these experience, either through healthy or unhealthy coping skills, will determine our new thought processes. These thought processes lead to self beliefs. I enjoy joining people in this moment of their lives and helping them redefine coping skills to rid themselves of related negative self beliefs.
(309) 265-0504 View (309) 265-0504
Photo of Shauna Summers, LCPC, NCC, MS, MA, Counselor
Shauna Summers
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61615
Through a collaborative and compassionate approach, I work to create a safe space where you can feel heard, understood, and validated. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals, improve their relationships, and enhance their overall well-being. We often look to the past to identify our core beliefs that guide our current worldview, priorities, and decision making. We have been learning these "core beliefs" about ourselves and the world since before we could walk and sometimes we stop integrating new observations and we become stuck. You can get unstuck with Shauna.
Through a collaborative and compassionate approach, I work to create a safe space where you can feel heard, understood, and validated. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals, improve their relationships, and enhance their overall well-being. We often look to the past to identify our core beliefs that guide our current worldview, priorities, and decision making. We have been learning these "core beliefs" about ourselves and the world since before we could walk and sometimes we stop integrating new observations and we become stuck. You can get unstuck with Shauna.
(309) 396-6090 View (309) 396-6090
Photo of Kathy Renee Karouzos, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Kathy Renee Karouzos
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Peoria, IL 61614
These difficult and unprecedented times are causing an increase in anxiety and depression. I am a Christian who is a counselor. I work with people of all faiths as well as those who do not have any particular spiritual viewpoint. It is my aim to treat all of my clients with compassion and integrity. I will take the time to get to know you, and help you get to know yourself. Throughout the decades, I have practiced a variety of counseling techniques that we can tailor to suit your individual needs and personality. "Welcome to your life... only better!"
These difficult and unprecedented times are causing an increase in anxiety and depression. I am a Christian who is a counselor. I work with people of all faiths as well as those who do not have any particular spiritual viewpoint. It is my aim to treat all of my clients with compassion and integrity. I will take the time to get to know you, and help you get to know yourself. Throughout the decades, I have practiced a variety of counseling techniques that we can tailor to suit your individual needs and personality. "Welcome to your life... only better!"
(309) 305-3151 View (309) 305-3151
Photo of Jayshree Panchal, MA, LCPC, NCC
Jayshree Panchal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
Join me to address concerns that you, your child, and/or your family may have been struggling with recently, for weeks, months, or years. Depression, anxiety, professional or academic struggles, grief, and loss often cause isolation leading to setbacks with your academics, health, personal relationships, or career. Please know that you are not alone in your journey. Allow me the privilege and honor to serve you, your child, and/or family while you navigate the difficult emotions, conversations, and symptoms that continue to affect your family in a deeply personal and life altering way.
Join me to address concerns that you, your child, and/or your family may have been struggling with recently, for weeks, months, or years. Depression, anxiety, professional or academic struggles, grief, and loss often cause isolation leading to setbacks with your academics, health, personal relationships, or career. Please know that you are not alone in your journey. Allow me the privilege and honor to serve you, your child, and/or family while you navigate the difficult emotions, conversations, and symptoms that continue to affect your family in a deeply personal and life altering way.
(309) 727-8936 View (309) 727-8936
Photo of Regina Bridges, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Regina Bridges
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
My name is Regina Bridges. Ever since I can remember, I have enjoyed listening to and supporting others. My goal is to help people of all ages and backgrounds feel heard and empowered. I find it a privilege to be part of the process of growth for each client I am able to serve. I approach therapy through a holistic and person centered lens focusing on the whole person where they are the expert and author of their own story.
My name is Regina Bridges. Ever since I can remember, I have enjoyed listening to and supporting others. My goal is to help people of all ages and backgrounds feel heard and empowered. I find it a privilege to be part of the process of growth for each client I am able to serve. I approach therapy through a holistic and person centered lens focusing on the whole person where they are the expert and author of their own story.
(309) 245-8814 View (309) 245-8814
Photo of Dr. M. Diana Schroer, LCPC, Counselor
Dr. M. Diana Schroer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61604
Dr. Diana Schroer, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with over 20 years’ experience working with children and families. Diana has been working with children and families since 1993, specializing in areas related to emotional and behavioral development, sexual and physical abuse, trauma, attachment, depression, anxiety, and grief and loss. The theoretical orientation that best describes my beliefs, values, and worldview is integrative.
Dr. Diana Schroer, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Illinois with over 20 years’ experience working with children and families. Diana has been working with children and families since 1993, specializing in areas related to emotional and behavioral development, sexual and physical abuse, trauma, attachment, depression, anxiety, and grief and loss. The theoretical orientation that best describes my beliefs, values, and worldview is integrative.
(309) 948-6696 View (309) 948-6696
1
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.