Adoption Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Maya Rogers-Bursen, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Maya Rogers-Bursen
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
It’s my goal to hold space for the everyday moments while looking at things through an adoption lens.
Hi! My name is Maya Rogers-Bursen, and I am a licensed mental health counselor and art therapist. I was adopted from India when I was six months old and my narrative has shaped the work I love doing with adoptees, and families in the adoption constellation. I am a transracial adoptee with a private practice focused in supporting those navigate the ups and downs of the adoption journey. I named my practice Chandani Post Adoption Counseling - Chandani is my birth name. It means moonlight in Hindi, a place I often look towards when I think about birth family (feel free to read more of my story on my website – Chandanicounseling.com)
It’s my goal to hold space for the everyday moments while looking at things through an adoption lens.
Hi! My name is Maya Rogers-Bursen, and I am a licensed mental health counselor and art therapist. I was adopted from India when I was six months old and my narrative has shaped the work I love doing with adoptees, and families in the adoption constellation. I am a transracial adoptee with a private practice focused in supporting those navigate the ups and downs of the adoption journey. I named my practice Chandani Post Adoption Counseling - Chandani is my birth name. It means moonlight in Hindi, a place I often look towards when I think about birth family (feel free to read more of my story on my website – Chandanicounseling.com)
(857) 340-5606 View (857) 340-5606
Photo of Patricia m Brady, MS, LMFT, LMHC, Counselor
Patricia m Brady
Counselor, MS, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114
I have worked as a clinician in mental health for over 25 years. I have dedicated myself to child welfare and have a specialty in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, adoption, attachment, Bipolar and addictions. I take a supportive approach to my client work so they are able to arrive at healthy solutions. I also have experience in family therapy taking a family systems approach to the work. My practice is located in the center of Medford and is easily accessible by public transportation. The staff in the office are all welcoming and there is a play space for children.
I have worked as a clinician in mental health for over 25 years. I have dedicated myself to child welfare and have a specialty in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, adoption, attachment, Bipolar and addictions. I take a supportive approach to my client work so they are able to arrive at healthy solutions. I also have experience in family therapy taking a family systems approach to the work. My practice is located in the center of Medford and is easily accessible by public transportation. The staff in the office are all welcoming and there is a play space for children.
(781) 676-3169 View (781) 676-3169
Photo of Jennifer Eckert - Boston Post Adoption Resources, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Boston Post Adoption Resources
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
No matter what your adoption related question or concern is, you do not have to figure it out alone! Call us today to set up you free 20 minute phone consultation to see how we might best fit your needs!.
Boston Post Adoption Resources, also known as BPAR, is a nonprofit organization that was founded to support all individuals and families who are touched by adoption. We understand the challenges and impact that adoption can have on relationships, family dynamics, and identity. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is specifically trained to deal with post adoption challenges with clients of all ages in individual, family and group settings. We recognize that every situation is different, and our goal is to provide support to you and your family on your lifelong journey through adoption.
No matter what your adoption related question or concern is, you do not have to figure it out alone! Call us today to set up you free 20 minute phone consultation to see how we might best fit your needs!.
Boston Post Adoption Resources, also known as BPAR, is a nonprofit organization that was founded to support all individuals and families who are touched by adoption. We understand the challenges and impact that adoption can have on relationships, family dynamics, and identity. Our team of licensed mental health professionals is specifically trained to deal with post adoption challenges with clients of all ages in individual, family and group settings. We recognize that every situation is different, and our goal is to provide support to you and your family on your lifelong journey through adoption.
(617) 420-7064 View (617) 420-7064
Photo of Toni Marie Mazzaglia, CMHC
Toni Marie Mazzaglia
Mental Health Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
I am also currently running an online adoption group.
Greetings, I am a clinical mental health counselor licensed in UT and MA, with over twenty years experience working with a variety of clients. I specialize in treating complex trauma, anxiety, depression and adoption, attachment and family systems issues and parent coaching. I have experience with complex needs and diagnoses and am also trained in brief solution focused approaches, allowing me to support a range of clients. I believe in a holistic, mindfulness-based approach to building wellness and creating a safe space for people to identify needs and goals and work through the process in a guided and supported manner.
I am also currently running an online adoption group.
Greetings, I am a clinical mental health counselor licensed in UT and MA, with over twenty years experience working with a variety of clients. I specialize in treating complex trauma, anxiety, depression and adoption, attachment and family systems issues and parent coaching. I have experience with complex needs and diagnoses and am also trained in brief solution focused approaches, allowing me to support a range of clients. I believe in a holistic, mindfulness-based approach to building wellness and creating a safe space for people to identify needs and goals and work through the process in a guided and supported manner.
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Photo of Kimberly Fitzgerald, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101
Life is really HARD! Add the stress and complications of work, parenting, family issues, old stuff creeping back up … it can be unbearable at times! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has expertise working with individuals and families dealing with adoption and foster care, anxiety, depression, trauma, caregiving, grief and end of life issues. Sessions will focus on your inherent strengths to help you make true changes in your life. In addition to individuals, I work with families. Families can be supportive but complicated. They are often the core of our world and therefore we and they are worth the effort to invest in.
Life is really HARD! Add the stress and complications of work, parenting, family issues, old stuff creeping back up … it can be unbearable at times! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has expertise working with individuals and families dealing with adoption and foster care, anxiety, depression, trauma, caregiving, grief and end of life issues. Sessions will focus on your inherent strengths to help you make true changes in your life. In addition to individuals, I work with families. Families can be supportive but complicated. They are often the core of our world and therefore we and they are worth the effort to invest in.
(508) 827-1220 View (508) 827-1220
Photo of Katie Jones, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02128
In addition I have extensive experience working with individuals and families that are part of the adoption constellation and have received training in complex blended family and post- adoption.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. I offer an active and collaborative therapeutic style that allows the opportunity for clients to learn, grow, explore, challenge and live the life they want to be living. With a background working in community mental health, private practice, clinical supervision and consulting in public/private school settings; I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have helped patients with a broad range of needs including Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Depression, behavioral and/or relational difficulties.
In addition I have extensive experience working with individuals and families that are part of the adoption constellation and have received training in complex blended family and post- adoption.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. I offer an active and collaborative therapeutic style that allows the opportunity for clients to learn, grow, explore, challenge and live the life they want to be living. With a background working in community mental health, private practice, clinical supervision and consulting in public/private school settings; I have more than 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have helped patients with a broad range of needs including Anxiety, OCD, ADHD, Depression, behavioral and/or relational difficulties.
(310) 361-0638 View (310) 361-0638
Photo of Jessica Butler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02215  (Online Only)
I have worked with many individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, and abusive relationships. In addition, I have experience working with children that are struggling with adoption. I specialize in family-systems models, attachment oriented therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. By utilizing an individualized insight-oriented approach, I can help both children and adults process emotions and achieve positive progress to reach their goals. I am a strong believer of the mind/body/spirit connection.
I have worked with many individuals and families that struggle with depression, anxiety, interpersonal relationships, substance abuse, and abusive relationships. In addition, I have experience working with children that are struggling with adoption. I specialize in family-systems models, attachment oriented therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. By utilizing an individualized insight-oriented approach, I can help both children and adults process emotions and achieve positive progress to reach their goals. I am a strong believer of the mind/body/spirit connection.
(339) 329-7238 View (339) 329-7238
Photo of Molly Wright, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Molly Wright
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
As a dedicated mental health counselor serving Rhode Island and Massachusetts, I specialize in supporting older teens and adults to navigate challenges such as anxiety, stress, and mood-related issues with proven success. I have a deep understanding and experience in addressing mental health challenges affected by circumstances such as life transitions, identity development, family dynamics, systemic oppression, and adoption-related issues.
As a dedicated mental health counselor serving Rhode Island and Massachusetts, I specialize in supporting older teens and adults to navigate challenges such as anxiety, stress, and mood-related issues with proven success. I have a deep understanding and experience in addressing mental health challenges affected by circumstances such as life transitions, identity development, family dynamics, systemic oppression, and adoption-related issues.
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Photo of Marissa Dungan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Dungan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02131
Focusing her practice on couples, sexuality, and family systems, Marissa works with couples and families navigating relational dynamics. Marissa has worked with couples to rebuild trust and create new relational agreements. She has experience working with interracial, interfaith, and multicultural families. Marissa training includes working with desire, intimacy, infidelity, conflict management, and parenting. Marissa works with families (ages 14+), navigating topics including adoption, mental health, queerness, and disability. She also offers Individual therapy for those in the process of separating.
Focusing her practice on couples, sexuality, and family systems, Marissa works with couples and families navigating relational dynamics. Marissa has worked with couples to rebuild trust and create new relational agreements. She has experience working with interracial, interfaith, and multicultural families. Marissa training includes working with desire, intimacy, infidelity, conflict management, and parenting. Marissa works with families (ages 14+), navigating topics including adoption, mental health, queerness, and disability. She also offers Individual therapy for those in the process of separating.
(781) 886-7902 View (781) 886-7902
Photo of Karen M Seif, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen M Seif
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I specialize in parenting support, young adult counseling, adoption and foster care issues, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, collaborative mental health support. They may be struggling with parenting, stress, identity issues, or LGBTQ+ concerns. They value a therapist with 30 years of diverse experience, empathy, humor, and a relational, narrative, and CBT approach. They seek a trusting therapeutic space for self-discovery, growth, and coping with life's challenges. Whether they're a caregiver, young adult, part of the adoption community, or LGBTQ+, they desire understanding, guidance, and a non-judgmental ally in their journey towards wellness and self-acceptance.
I specialize in parenting support, young adult counseling, adoption and foster care issues, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
My ideal client is seeking compassionate, collaborative mental health support. They may be struggling with parenting, stress, identity issues, or LGBTQ+ concerns. They value a therapist with 30 years of diverse experience, empathy, humor, and a relational, narrative, and CBT approach. They seek a trusting therapeutic space for self-discovery, growth, and coping with life's challenges. Whether they're a caregiver, young adult, part of the adoption community, or LGBTQ+, they desire understanding, guidance, and a non-judgmental ally in their journey towards wellness and self-acceptance.
(959) 210-6800 View (959) 210-6800
Photo of Dr. Danielle Robillard D'Amico, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Danielle Robillard D'Amico
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
With more than 25 years of experience, I have worked in various settings, including clinical, medical, and academic milieus, and with a diverse clientele in urban and rural areas. I have extensive expertise in treating those who face a range of challenges, including anxiety, stress, sadness and depressed mood, grief, family and life transitions, relationship difficulties, trauma, adoption, attachment-related concerns, OCD, chronic illness, and interpersonal struggles. Additionally, I work with clients seeking to deepen self-awareness, heal unresolved areas, and expand their capacity for meaningful connection and fulfillment.
With more than 25 years of experience, I have worked in various settings, including clinical, medical, and academic milieus, and with a diverse clientele in urban and rural areas. I have extensive expertise in treating those who face a range of challenges, including anxiety, stress, sadness and depressed mood, grief, family and life transitions, relationship difficulties, trauma, adoption, attachment-related concerns, OCD, chronic illness, and interpersonal struggles. Additionally, I work with clients seeking to deepen self-awareness, heal unresolved areas, and expand their capacity for meaningful connection and fulfillment.
(857) 240-8647 View (857) 240-8647
Photo of Heidi Schliesske, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Schliesske
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109
Special client groups include transition-aged adults, people affected by adoption, ADHD, and parent coaching.
**Updated October 1, 2024: I have availability for in-person sessions. I do not have openings before 9am or after 4pm at this time.** I have over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I have worked in a broad range of mental health settings, including traditional outpatient and also acute psychiatric settings providing individual therapy to kids, adults, and families, and clinical supervision and training to staff and trainees. I work with clients of all ages, and across cultures. I also provide clinical supervision and consultation services. My approach is collaborative, client-centered and strengths based.
Special client groups include transition-aged adults, people affected by adoption, ADHD, and parent coaching.
**Updated October 1, 2024: I have availability for in-person sessions. I do not have openings before 9am or after 4pm at this time.** I have over 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I have worked in a broad range of mental health settings, including traditional outpatient and also acute psychiatric settings providing individual therapy to kids, adults, and families, and clinical supervision and training to staff and trainees. I work with clients of all ages, and across cultures. I also provide clinical supervision and consultation services. My approach is collaborative, client-centered and strengths based.
(857) 254-8544 View (857) 254-8544
Photo of Amanda Kucinski, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Kucinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
My name is Amanda Kucinski, I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have 15 years of experience working with various populations including teens, families going through the process of adoption, and people experiencing grief and loss. My approach to therapy is a positive and solution focused. I think it is important to focus on self-care and finding balance. My goal is that therapy is a collaborative process with any client taking an active part in their treatment and identifying goals.
My name is Amanda Kucinski, I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I have 15 years of experience working with various populations including teens, families going through the process of adoption, and people experiencing grief and loss. My approach to therapy is a positive and solution focused. I think it is important to focus on self-care and finding balance. My goal is that therapy is a collaborative process with any client taking an active part in their treatment and identifying goals.
(617) 683-1816 View (617) 683-1816
Photo of Tiffany Armstrong, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I have a special interest in working with individuals navigating life transitions such as college, graduate school, career stress, sexuality and gender identity/expression, parenting, relationships, substance use and disordered eating. I specialize in women’s health issues, including pregnancy, postpartum, adoption and parenting. I have extensive experience working in community health with children and adults with complex medical needs, teen parents, and pregnant and postpartum individuals with substance use disorders.
I have a special interest in working with individuals navigating life transitions such as college, graduate school, career stress, sexuality and gender identity/expression, parenting, relationships, substance use and disordered eating. I specialize in women’s health issues, including pregnancy, postpartum, adoption and parenting. I have extensive experience working in community health with children and adults with complex medical needs, teen parents, and pregnant and postpartum individuals with substance use disorders.
(857) 567-0470 x1 View (857) 567-0470 x1
Photo of Laura Christine Joyce, BA, MSW, LICSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Christine Joyce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, MSW, LICSW, JD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I also have extensive background and knowledge of the law (I am also a lawyer) as well as adoption and foster care.
I am a warm, empathic therapist who will help you see results and progress in your day to day life. I have never met a client I do not have hope for and have not seen make positive changes in their life. I specialize in seeing college/graduate students, young adults, young couples and young parents working through modern day challenges. I also help family's in the midst of crises (divorce, a child with a diagnosis of mental illness or struggling at college, substance abuse, legal issues, etc.)
I also have extensive background and knowledge of the law (I am also a lawyer) as well as adoption and foster care.
I am a warm, empathic therapist who will help you see results and progress in your day to day life. I have never met a client I do not have hope for and have not seen make positive changes in their life. I specialize in seeing college/graduate students, young adults, young couples and young parents working through modern day challenges. I also help family's in the midst of crises (divorce, a child with a diagnosis of mental illness or struggling at college, substance abuse, legal issues, etc.)
(617) 936-8105 View (617) 936-8105
Photo of Jennifer Lee, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108
I also support individuals experiencing family communication difficulties, life transitions, adoption/fostering and multiculturalism.
Each of us has unique strengths and skills, developed through their personal experiences and stories, but we can underestimate ourselves. When we encounter obstacles or feel overwhelmed, our own abilities can seem out of reach and we begin to practice negative thoughts towards ourselves and others. I am here to help you navigate those stressors and burdens, while supporting you towards gaining a deeper understanding of your own identity. It would be my privilege to provide you with a safe space to explore your narrative and to walk with you on your mental health journey!
I also support individuals experiencing family communication difficulties, life transitions, adoption/fostering and multiculturalism.
Each of us has unique strengths and skills, developed through their personal experiences and stories, but we can underestimate ourselves. When we encounter obstacles or feel overwhelmed, our own abilities can seem out of reach and we begin to practice negative thoughts towards ourselves and others. I am here to help you navigate those stressors and burdens, while supporting you towards gaining a deeper understanding of your own identity. It would be my privilege to provide you with a safe space to explore your narrative and to walk with you on your mental health journey!
(678) 394-0281 View (678) 394-0281
Photo of Phyllis McNair, MSW, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Phyllis McNair
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can address a range of issues, including anger, anxiety, stress, racial and cultural identity, women’s issues, self-esteem, adoption and kinship caregiving, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
With a deep commitment to empowering others, I was inspired to pursue a career in social work after my own life experiences motivated me to help individuals achieve their goals. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Kean University in 2012 and have since dedicated my career to supporting children, youth, adults, and families across diverse settings. I take a solution-focused and strengths-based approach to therapy, prioritizing culturally competent care for clients from all backgrounds, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).
I am passionate about creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can address a range of issues, including anger, anxiety, stress, racial and cultural identity, women’s issues, self-esteem, adoption and kinship caregiving, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
With a deep commitment to empowering others, I was inspired to pursue a career in social work after my own life experiences motivated me to help individuals achieve their goals. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Kean University in 2012 and have since dedicated my career to supporting children, youth, adults, and families across diverse settings. I take a solution-focused and strengths-based approach to therapy, prioritizing culturally competent care for clients from all backgrounds, particularly Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).
(571) 621-5836 View (571) 621-5836
Photo of Emily Sarah Krause, Emily, S, Krause, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Sarah Krause
Licensed Professional Counselor, Emily, S, Krause, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
My areas of specialization are individual and couples therapy, adoption related children's work, women's issues, domestic violence, depression, panic disorders, OCD, stress management, employment related issues, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Welcome to my page! I am a full time clinical counselor at my own private practice Krause Therapy LLC. See my website- www.krausetherapyllc.com. I hold license in two states; a Massachusetts (LMHC), New Jersey (LPC), and am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) as well as a Nationally Board Certified Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). I currently practice online via Telemental Counseling per insurance plan approval and sliding scale basis. Also, I am offering individual supervision opportunities for LACs and provisional LMHCs for state licensure. Please contact me if interested at krausetherapyllc@gmail.com.
My areas of specialization are individual and couples therapy, adoption related children's work, women's issues, domestic violence, depression, panic disorders, OCD, stress management, employment related issues, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Welcome to my page! I am a full time clinical counselor at my own private practice Krause Therapy LLC. See my website- www.krausetherapyllc.com. I hold license in two states; a Massachusetts (LMHC), New Jersey (LPC), and am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) as well as a Nationally Board Certified Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS). I currently practice online via Telemental Counseling per insurance plan approval and sliding scale basis. Also, I am offering individual supervision opportunities for LACs and provisional LMHCs for state licensure. Please contact me if interested at krausetherapyllc@gmail.com.
(551) 291-1456 View (551) 291-1456
Photo of Joy Von Steiger, PhD, Psychologist
Joy Von Steiger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I specialize in multicultural treatment, identity development, trauma, depression, anxiety, work issues, life transitions, parenting issues, adoption, fertility issues, gender issues and sexuality.
I have been in private practice in the Boston/Cambridge area for 35 years working with adults and adolescents, couples and families. I work with clients utilizing a trauma informed lens as well as elements of liberation psychology. I feel all clinical work must begin with a thorough understanding of a client's multiple identities and how those identities interact within their communities and the larger culture.  My work and my passion are embedded in a deep commitment to social justice.
I specialize in multicultural treatment, identity development, trauma, depression, anxiety, work issues, life transitions, parenting issues, adoption, fertility issues, gender issues and sexuality.
I have been in private practice in the Boston/Cambridge area for 35 years working with adults and adolescents, couples and families. I work with clients utilizing a trauma informed lens as well as elements of liberation psychology. I feel all clinical work must begin with a thorough understanding of a client's multiple identities and how those identities interact within their communities and the larger culture.  My work and my passion are embedded in a deep commitment to social justice.
(617) 682-9227 View (617) 682-9227
Photo of Michel Renee Otto, LMHC, MAE, Counselor
Michel Renee Otto
Counselor, LMHC, MAE
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults in a non-judgmental and down to earth environment. My goal is to create a safe space where clients feel empowered to set and reach goals, develop positive coping strategies, and build confidence. I pull from various clinical approaches, fine tuning my approach to each individual client and their situation. I have significant experience helping individuals manage and cope with attachment disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, transitional factors, social issues, emotional regulation, sensory processing disorders, PTSD, trauma and adoption/foster care.
I provide individual therapy to adolescents and adults in a non-judgmental and down to earth environment. My goal is to create a safe space where clients feel empowered to set and reach goals, develop positive coping strategies, and build confidence. I pull from various clinical approaches, fine tuning my approach to each individual client and their situation. I have significant experience helping individuals manage and cope with attachment disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, transitional factors, social issues, emotional regulation, sensory processing disorders, PTSD, trauma and adoption/foster care.
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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.