Adoption Therapists in Beverly, MA

Photo of Maren E Oslund, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maren E Oslund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
I have also specialized in adoption for over 15 years and Autism Spectrum Disorder for over 10 years.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to process their current challenges and develop new coping skills. Though I frequently practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy, I adapt my clinical approach to the unique challenges of the individual. I am highly influenced by my understanding of strength-based practice, family systems theories, and attachment theories. I utilize the Gottman approach (Level 2 certified) to couples counseling. I am an AASECT certified Sex Therapist.
I have also specialized in adoption for over 15 years and Autism Spectrum Disorder for over 10 years.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to process their current challenges and develop new coping skills. Though I frequently practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy, I adapt my clinical approach to the unique challenges of the individual. I am highly influenced by my understanding of strength-based practice, family systems theories, and attachment theories. I utilize the Gottman approach (Level 2 certified) to couples counseling. I am an AASECT certified Sex Therapist.
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Photo of Evalyn Lawnsby, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Evalyn Lawnsby
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
Besides the specialties listed below, I also help children and adults with concerns related to anxiety and stress, adjustment, divorced and blended families, families-of-origin, adoption, parenting, self-compassion, social skills, sadness and loss.
I have worked with adults, children, and families for many years, in educational and therapeutic capacities. Everyone experiences anxiety or unhappiness, from time to time; my goal is to help you, your child or family to overcome the difficulties you are experiencing. I will assist you to articulate and meet your individual goals, while focusing and building on your strengths, or those of your child.
Besides the specialties listed below, I also help children and adults with concerns related to anxiety and stress, adjustment, divorced and blended families, families-of-origin, adoption, parenting, self-compassion, social skills, sadness and loss.
I have worked with adults, children, and families for many years, in educational and therapeutic capacities. Everyone experiences anxiety or unhappiness, from time to time; my goal is to help you, your child or family to overcome the difficulties you are experiencing. I will assist you to articulate and meet your individual goals, while focusing and building on your strengths, or those of your child.
(978) 378-3629 View (978) 378-3629
Photo of Sarah Finnie | Shoreline Counseling Services, MA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Finnie | Shoreline Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly, MA 01915
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience with a wide range of needs including life stage transitions, trauma, abuse, neglect, attachment, foster care, adoption, self esteem, social skills, behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, ADHD and religious trauma.
ATTN: to be added to the waitlist, please fill out a new client request form at www.shorelinecounselingservices.org. Full except for clients available between 11am-1pm in the fall. Also visit the 'FAQ' tab for answers to common questions about starting therapy with me. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I received a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Boston University with a focus on childhood trauma. I have worked in community based mental health, schools and group private practice with children and teenagers since 2017. I see clients between the ages of 6-21 years old at the start of treatment.
I have experience with a wide range of needs including life stage transitions, trauma, abuse, neglect, attachment, foster care, adoption, self esteem, social skills, behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, ADHD and religious trauma.
ATTN: to be added to the waitlist, please fill out a new client request form at www.shorelinecounselingservices.org. Full except for clients available between 11am-1pm in the fall. Also visit the 'FAQ' tab for answers to common questions about starting therapy with me. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I received a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Boston University with a focus on childhood trauma. I have worked in community based mental health, schools and group private practice with children and teenagers since 2017. I see clients between the ages of 6-21 years old at the start of treatment.
(508) 906-7314 View (508) 906-7314
Photo of Glenn Eric Smith, MA, MFT, Counselor
Glenn Eric Smith
Counselor, MA, MFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
If you are ready for a change, I'm willing to help. I see a wide variety of clients and help them work through relationship issues, anxiety and depression, anger management, and addictive behaviors including sexual addiction. I am adopted and better able to work with adoptees, parents of adoptees and adoption concerns. Since 2004 I have practiced in Beverly offering a safe environment for individuals, couples and families who wish to overcome harmful behaviors, addiction, and family strife.
If you are ready for a change, I'm willing to help. I see a wide variety of clients and help them work through relationship issues, anxiety and depression, anger management, and addictive behaviors including sexual addiction. I am adopted and better able to work with adoptees, parents of adoptees and adoption concerns. Since 2004 I have practiced in Beverly offering a safe environment for individuals, couples and families who wish to overcome harmful behaviors, addiction, and family strife.
(978) 776-3306 View (978) 776-3306
Photo of Alicia Marie Casey, MA, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Marie Casey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beverly, MA 01915
Waitlist for new clients
Additional experience includes work in: attachment/ adoption, autism spectrum programs, school-based counseling, therapeutic classrooms/residential programs, and outpatient counseling.
Hello! I am currently offering telehealth services for clients; primarily young adults and adults. I specialize in helping clients cope with and manage anxiety, depression, mood or emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal or family conflict related issues. Techniques I explore include: CBT, motivational exercises, expressive based techniques, & humor! My goal in working with you is to establish a safe and empathic relationship, work to find a clearer understanding of your current difficulties, reduce & improve symptom management; strive for balance and acceptance in your life, and experience an overall improved quality of life.
Additional experience includes work in: attachment/ adoption, autism spectrum programs, school-based counseling, therapeutic classrooms/residential programs, and outpatient counseling.
Hello! I am currently offering telehealth services for clients; primarily young adults and adults. I specialize in helping clients cope with and manage anxiety, depression, mood or emotional dysregulation, and interpersonal or family conflict related issues. Techniques I explore include: CBT, motivational exercises, expressive based techniques, & humor! My goal in working with you is to establish a safe and empathic relationship, work to find a clearer understanding of your current difficulties, reduce & improve symptom management; strive for balance and acceptance in your life, and experience an overall improved quality of life.
(857) 226-9432 View (857) 226-9432
Photo of Rob DiGiammarino - Ocean Gem Psychological Care, PLLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Ocean Gem Psychological Care, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
It can take tremendous courage and vulnerability to ask for help. If you're reading this, we'd like to take a moment to honor your strength in taking this first step in pursuing something better for yourself or your family. We promise: you're worth it!
It can take tremendous courage and vulnerability to ask for help. If you're reading this, we'd like to take a moment to honor your strength in taking this first step in pursuing something better for yourself or your family. We promise: you're worth it!
(978) 637-6441 View (978) 637-6441
Photo of Melissa Morehouse - Melissa Morehouse, LICSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Morehouse, LICSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beverly, MA 01915
Welcome! I am the owner and provider for Melissa Morehouse LICSW LLC, where I strive to provide strength based support. I have 13 years mental health experience working with children, adolescents, families as well as adults. When working with children and adolescents, I believe in supporting the whole family; providing caregiver support, psycho-education, parent and family sessions (when needed). I believe in meeting the person where they are, based on everyone's unique needs.
Welcome! I am the owner and provider for Melissa Morehouse LICSW LLC, where I strive to provide strength based support. I have 13 years mental health experience working with children, adolescents, families as well as adults. When working with children and adolescents, I believe in supporting the whole family; providing caregiver support, psycho-education, parent and family sessions (when needed). I believe in meeting the person where they are, based on everyone's unique needs.
(978) 288-1520 View (978) 288-1520
Photo of Jan Tedeschi - RJ Tolan Counseling Group LLC, LADC, MA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
RJ Tolan Counseling Group LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, MA
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
Jan Tedeschi: I have 30+ years of experience with clients and families. I have specialized in parenting and substance use disorder. Developing a tailored approach to each individual and their family system. I use individual style, humor and a solid sense of spirituality; helping clients and parents identify their real needs while normalizing their feelings of frustration and inadequacy. I facilitate in clients taking themselves a little less seriously; helping to dispel shame, lower anxieties and increase capacity for decision making.
Jan Tedeschi: I have 30+ years of experience with clients and families. I have specialized in parenting and substance use disorder. Developing a tailored approach to each individual and their family system. I use individual style, humor and a solid sense of spirituality; helping clients and parents identify their real needs while normalizing their feelings of frustration and inadequacy. I facilitate in clients taking themselves a little less seriously; helping to dispel shame, lower anxieties and increase capacity for decision making.
(781) 277-6577 View (781) 277-6577
Photo of Caitlin Kenny, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Kenny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
I guide people to create change in their lives, and understand this is often a difficult and overwhelming process. My focus is to assist people with creative problem solving, stay goal-oriented, and to ensure you feel validated and truly heard. By exploring your feelings, thoughts, physiology, and experiences, you’ll come to feel, learn, heal, and grow. It’s not always fun or easy- soul work is hard work. But I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and nurturing space for you to become empowered and create agency in your life. It’s time to focus on caring and nurturing yourself. Because it really does start with you.
I guide people to create change in their lives, and understand this is often a difficult and overwhelming process. My focus is to assist people with creative problem solving, stay goal-oriented, and to ensure you feel validated and truly heard. By exploring your feelings, thoughts, physiology, and experiences, you’ll come to feel, learn, heal, and grow. It’s not always fun or easy- soul work is hard work. But I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and nurturing space for you to become empowered and create agency in your life. It’s time to focus on caring and nurturing yourself. Because it really does start with you.
(339) 201-6431 View (339) 201-6431
Photo of Amanda Urato - Amanda Urato, LMHC, Anxiety Specialist , LMHC, Counselor
Amanda Urato, LMHC, Anxiety Specialist
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety - whether it’s from external demands or internal struggles. Maybe it's social anxiety, "a life transition," or healing from trauma. Or maybe it's something more general, like you want to feel more "in control" of your emotions…and your life. I can help. Together, we’ll uncover the roots of your challenges, empowering you to move forward - with skill and confidence. I use “treatments that work” (CBT, DBT, mindfulness, etc). But we’ll find what works for YOU. Lastly, I don’t just want you to just “feel better.” I want you to live your best life. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
You may be feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety - whether it’s from external demands or internal struggles. Maybe it's social anxiety, "a life transition," or healing from trauma. Or maybe it's something more general, like you want to feel more "in control" of your emotions…and your life. I can help. Together, we’ll uncover the roots of your challenges, empowering you to move forward - with skill and confidence. I use “treatments that work” (CBT, DBT, mindfulness, etc). But we’ll find what works for YOU. Lastly, I don’t just want you to just “feel better.” I want you to live your best life. I'm looking forward to meeting you!
(413) 767-4166 View (413) 767-4166
Photo of Dr. Heather Hunt - My Deaf Therapy - National Telehealth Services, PhD, LLC, Psychologist
My Deaf Therapy - National Telehealth Services
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
The decision to seek out a therapist is an important first step towards positively addressing conflicts, managing distress, and learning to cope with negative or overwhelming feelings. Our team of therapists bring years of therapy experience. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are Deaf or come from Deaf families (includes hearing family/friends who sign). We provide a supportive, nurturing environment. We use a multimodal approach incorporating mind-body therapies with evidence-based treatments.
The decision to seek out a therapist is an important first step towards positively addressing conflicts, managing distress, and learning to cope with negative or overwhelming feelings. Our team of therapists bring years of therapy experience. We work with children, adolescents, adults, and families who are Deaf or come from Deaf families (includes hearing family/friends who sign). We provide a supportive, nurturing environment. We use a multimodal approach incorporating mind-body therapies with evidence-based treatments.
(612) 230-8753 View (612) 230-8753
Photo of Caroline Gojcz, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Gojcz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
Are you searching for a compassionate guide on your journey to healing and self-discovery? If you're an individual navigating mental and emotional well-being, my aim is to be your ongoing support. Whether you're dealing with the weight of depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting dilemmas, adjustment difficulties, or life transitions, I am here to provide a safe and nurturing space where you can find solace and growth. Together, we'll work towards discovering the underlying causes of your struggles, creating a path towards resilience, improved relationships, and a more fulfilling life.
Are you searching for a compassionate guide on your journey to healing and self-discovery? If you're an individual navigating mental and emotional well-being, my aim is to be your ongoing support. Whether you're dealing with the weight of depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, parenting dilemmas, adjustment difficulties, or life transitions, I am here to provide a safe and nurturing space where you can find solace and growth. Together, we'll work towards discovering the underlying causes of your struggles, creating a path towards resilience, improved relationships, and a more fulfilling life.
(401) 234-1870 View (401) 234-1870
Photo of Alana Welch Strom, LICSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Welch Strom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to my practice. I work with a wide range of people, from those looking to make subtle shifts and build insight to those struggling to manage profound, chronic suffering. I will help you explore the impact of your past and present on your health and well-being and learn how to connect deeply with your self, your body, with others, and with the world around you. My approach is heavily relational, geared towards healing attachment wounds, as well as somatic, centering the body and nervous system - both of which have carried so much burden but are often minimized in therapies that rely exclusively on talk and cognitive process.
Welcome to my practice. I work with a wide range of people, from those looking to make subtle shifts and build insight to those struggling to manage profound, chronic suffering. I will help you explore the impact of your past and present on your health and well-being and learn how to connect deeply with your self, your body, with others, and with the world around you. My approach is heavily relational, geared towards healing attachment wounds, as well as somatic, centering the body and nervous system - both of which have carried so much burden but are often minimized in therapies that rely exclusively on talk and cognitive process.
(781) 518-0184 View (781) 518-0184
Photo of Matthew G. Doyle, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew G. Doyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
Castle Hill Counseling & Consulting, Inc. (CHCC) was founded in December of 2015. While drawing from my undergraduate education at Boston College, subsequent graduate program at Simmons College, and 20+ years of experience in the mental health and education field, I founded CHCC with the vision to deliver the highest quality service to children in the home, school environments, and to the larger systems supporting families through professional development, specialized trainings, and consultation. We have developed speciality areas of practice; including school refusal and avoidance, trauma, and educational program development.
Castle Hill Counseling & Consulting, Inc. (CHCC) was founded in December of 2015. While drawing from my undergraduate education at Boston College, subsequent graduate program at Simmons College, and 20+ years of experience in the mental health and education field, I founded CHCC with the vision to deliver the highest quality service to children in the home, school environments, and to the larger systems supporting families through professional development, specialized trainings, and consultation. We have developed speciality areas of practice; including school refusal and avoidance, trauma, and educational program development.
(978) 578-9616 View (978) 578-9616
Photo of Gloria L Barbacoff, L8CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gloria L Barbacoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L8CSW
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
I am a relational therapist and a psychoanalyst. I graduated from The General Training Program in Psychoanalysis at the Mass Institute for Psychoanalysis in 2019. After 30+ years of experience, I have found that each patient is unique and requires an individualized plan of treatment. My patients and I work together on creating a plan that addresses both the current problem(s), as well as the longer term goals. I strive to be flexible, open and creative in listening to and addressing patient's concerns. My style is warm and empathic and I incorporate humor into the work whenever possible.
I am a relational therapist and a psychoanalyst. I graduated from The General Training Program in Psychoanalysis at the Mass Institute for Psychoanalysis in 2019. After 30+ years of experience, I have found that each patient is unique and requires an individualized plan of treatment. My patients and I work together on creating a plan that addresses both the current problem(s), as well as the longer term goals. I strive to be flexible, open and creative in listening to and addressing patient's concerns. My style is warm and empathic and I incorporate humor into the work whenever possible.
(978) 522-6241 View (978) 522-6241
Photo of Kassandra Garcia - Elevation Therapy Group, LICSW, LMHC , MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elevation Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMHC , MSW
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, or having difficulty navigating your relationships? Are you a parent that is struggling to support your child with their own mental health? It can be overwhelming to know where to begin when trying to create positive change in your life. Building the self-confidence to accomplish your goals or figuring out what they are can feel impossible. If you are ready to begin working through the challenges you are facing and improve your quality of life, you have already made the biggest step towards your future self.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, or having difficulty navigating your relationships? Are you a parent that is struggling to support your child with their own mental health? It can be overwhelming to know where to begin when trying to create positive change in your life. Building the self-confidence to accomplish your goals or figuring out what they are can feel impossible. If you are ready to begin working through the challenges you are facing and improve your quality of life, you have already made the biggest step towards your future self.
(978) 595-0912 View (978) 595-0912
Photo of Stella Eljona Zoto - Eljona Stella Zoto - Estia Counseling Services , MA , LMHC, 11868, Counselor
Eljona Stella Zoto - Estia Counseling Services
Counselor, MA , LMHC, 11868
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed mental health counselor who has been in the field for a number of years, I have worked with children, teenagers, adults of all ages, caregivers, couples and families in order to produce desirable outcomes in areas that have caused conflict or dissatisfaction in the past or currently. I am experienced in collaborating with my clients in identifying what the need is in each case, in order to take necessary steps to create positive change. I support clients who are experiencing high stress, are in crisis and have complex struggles and needs.
As a licensed mental health counselor who has been in the field for a number of years, I have worked with children, teenagers, adults of all ages, caregivers, couples and families in order to produce desirable outcomes in areas that have caused conflict or dissatisfaction in the past or currently. I am experienced in collaborating with my clients in identifying what the need is in each case, in order to take necessary steps to create positive change. I support clients who are experiencing high stress, are in crisis and have complex struggles and needs.
(351) 206-0272 View (351) 206-0272
Photo of Shane MacDonald - OCD Specialist, Shane MacDonald, LICSW , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
OCD Specialist, Shane MacDonald, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
Our broad goal––of course––is “the end of unnecessary suffering.” Sound about right? While we all strive for this, I specialize in helping folks with a very-unique kind of suffering: OCD. I can tell you that few people understand the pain and complexity of OCD—(even most therapists). I will listen intently to your unique story. Just know that I can introduce you to an arsenal of tools that can help: mindfulness, ERP (exposure and response prevention) and on and on. Yes, thoughts can be “sticky.” But––with hard work––if (or when) those thoughts come back around…they can be as quiet & as harmless as a yellow post-it.
Our broad goal––of course––is “the end of unnecessary suffering.” Sound about right? While we all strive for this, I specialize in helping folks with a very-unique kind of suffering: OCD. I can tell you that few people understand the pain and complexity of OCD—(even most therapists). I will listen intently to your unique story. Just know that I can introduce you to an arsenal of tools that can help: mindfulness, ERP (exposure and response prevention) and on and on. Yes, thoughts can be “sticky.” But––with hard work––if (or when) those thoughts come back around…they can be as quiet & as harmless as a yellow post-it.
(617) 675-2000 View (617) 675-2000
Photo of Arjana Makoci - Regulate Yours, Mental Health Services, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Regulate Yours, Mental Health Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beverly, MA 01915
At Regulate Yours, we recognize that seeking therapy often comes from a place of wanting to heal, grow, and find clarity. Our mission is to support, motivate, and guide you through the healing process, fostering self-awareness and personal growth. With a dedicated team of 11 therapists, each with unique expertise, we offer diverse treatment modalities tailored to individual needs. We are passionate about helping you regain control and achieve your goals, and we take pride in seeing our clients thrive.
At Regulate Yours, we recognize that seeking therapy often comes from a place of wanting to heal, grow, and find clarity. Our mission is to support, motivate, and guide you through the healing process, fostering self-awareness and personal growth. With a dedicated team of 11 therapists, each with unique expertise, we offer diverse treatment modalities tailored to individual needs. We are passionate about helping you regain control and achieve your goals, and we take pride in seeing our clients thrive.
(978) 567-7856 View (978) 567-7856
Photo of Marissa Cashman, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC, CPC, MaACCS
Marissa Cashman
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LCMHC, CPC, MaACCS
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My extensive experience with adoption provides a clear understanding of the array of issues that can manifest.
Please note EMAIL is my preferred method of contact for new clients. Searching for the right therapist can be stressful, but seeking guidance from a licensed professional is a wonderful way of gaining coping skills a different and more objective perspective to challenging issues. My practice is dedicated to the psychological, emotional, and spiritual well- being of age 16+ adolescents, young adults, and adults. Individual and family therapy are offered in a nonjudgmental and professional atmosphere. My practice is inclusive to all races, ethnicities, nationalities, religious/spiritual beliefs, genders, and sexual orientations.
My extensive experience with adoption provides a clear understanding of the array of issues that can manifest.
Please note EMAIL is my preferred method of contact for new clients. Searching for the right therapist can be stressful, but seeking guidance from a licensed professional is a wonderful way of gaining coping skills a different and more objective perspective to challenging issues. My practice is dedicated to the psychological, emotional, and spiritual well- being of age 16+ adolescents, young adults, and adults. Individual and family therapy are offered in a nonjudgmental and professional atmosphere. My practice is inclusive to all races, ethnicities, nationalities, religious/spiritual beliefs, genders, and sexual orientations.
(978) 306-4466 View (978) 306-4466
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.