Adoption Therapists in Grand Rapids, MI
Katie Bozek
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
There are several issues in which I have a special interest in, such as, adoption-related issues, couple concerns, parenting concerns and issues related to trauma.
I believe people are relational-beings, meaning, we develop and live our lives in relationships with others. When these relationships become distressed, it can lead to a multitude of feelings, such as depression, stress, anxiety and an overall feeling of uneasiness. These are the times when a person may need some guidance and help accessing their personal resources to find more balance in those relationships and in life in general.
There are several issues in which I have a special interest in, such as, adoption-related issues, couple concerns, parenting concerns and issues related to trauma.
I believe people are relational-beings, meaning, we develop and live our lives in relationships with others. When these relationships become distressed, it can lead to a multitude of feelings, such as depression, stress, anxiety and an overall feeling of uneasiness. These are the times when a person may need some guidance and help accessing their personal resources to find more balance in those relationships and in life in general.
Emily Sluiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PHM-C, CYT-200
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I specialize in working with individuals in the family-building phase of life, including infertility, pregnancy/post-partum anxiety and depression, surrogacy, as well as supporting all members of the adoption constellation. I have 15+ years experience working with diverse individuals and I hope to create a safe space for you to explore whatever is important to you. I believe we all thrive in spaces where we can be fully known and celebrated for who we truly are and I aim to bring authenticity, curiosity and possibly some humor to our work together.
I specialize in working with individuals in the family-building phase of life, including infertility, pregnancy/post-partum anxiety and depression, surrogacy, as well as supporting all members of the adoption constellation. I have 15+ years experience working with diverse individuals and I hope to create a safe space for you to explore whatever is important to you. I believe we all thrive in spaces where we can be fully known and celebrated for who we truly are and I aim to bring authenticity, curiosity and possibly some humor to our work together.
Alesha Hendricks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49508 (Online Only)
My areas of specialization include families (including those with connections to the child welfare system ( adoption, foster care, and CPS), teens, couples, mothers, infertility, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Hi there! I am so glad you’re here. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for all to cultivate growth.
My areas of specialization include families (including those with connections to the child welfare system ( adoption, foster care, and CPS), teens, couples, mothers, infertility, domestic violence, anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
Hi there! I am so glad you’re here. As a therapist, I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for all to cultivate growth.
Marissa Dulcamaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49501 (Online Only)
I have experience and I am very passionate about working with those within the adoption constellation, families, pregnant/postpartum, and those experiencing grief.
Hi- I’m so happy you’re here! Being human is not always easy, and, at times, navigating what life has to offer can feel complicated or overwhelming. Because of this, we all sometimes need some extra support, a listening-ear, or a safe space to just talk about everything and anything. I would love to work with you to build a safe, meaningful, and collaborative space to explore your thoughts and emotions while also helping you to develop new skills, understandings, and ways of healing.
I have experience and I am very passionate about working with those within the adoption constellation, families, pregnant/postpartum, and those experiencing grief.
Hi- I’m so happy you’re here! Being human is not always easy, and, at times, navigating what life has to offer can feel complicated or overwhelming. Because of this, we all sometimes need some extra support, a listening-ear, or a safe space to just talk about everything and anything. I would love to work with you to build a safe, meaningful, and collaborative space to explore your thoughts and emotions while also helping you to develop new skills, understandings, and ways of healing.
Begin Anew Counseling, LLC & Kodde Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I deal with ADHD, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, anger, conflict, grief, adoption adjustments, codependency, trauma, and infidelity.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
I deal with ADHD, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, anger, conflict, grief, adoption adjustments, codependency, trauma, and infidelity.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
Hello! I’m a licensed clinical social worker and I have worked in school social work, foster care, adoption, adolescent residential treatment, crisis assessment at Pine Rest Hospital, and outpatient treatment. I have been in private practice for 20 years. It is my privilege to listen to, and be with, people in their stories. Making sense of our narrative is a fundamental component to a healthy mind and spirit. And making peace with our perfectly imperfect, and unique version of humanity is essential for our emotional life and our thought space. It would be my privilege to hear your story. Peace, Amy
Hello! I’m a licensed clinical social worker and I have worked in school social work, foster care, adoption, adolescent residential treatment, crisis assessment at Pine Rest Hospital, and outpatient treatment. I have been in private practice for 20 years. It is my privilege to listen to, and be with, people in their stories. Making sense of our narrative is a fundamental component to a healthy mind and spirit. And making peace with our perfectly imperfect, and unique version of humanity is essential for our emotional life and our thought space. It would be my privilege to hear your story. Peace, Amy
Janet Claire Goldner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I work with both couples and adults including those experiencing relationship stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenging life transitions, chronic illness as well as those struggling with the issues surrounding adoption.
As my favorite author Brene’ Brown said “You don’t have to go it alone, no one was meant to”. Life can be messy and the challenges and transitions that we all must travel through can be very burdensome. I’m here to help. I’m here to support. I’m here to facilitate you truly seeing the courage and strength inside. Cultivate calm- it may be easier than you think!
I work with both couples and adults including those experiencing relationship stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenging life transitions, chronic illness as well as those struggling with the issues surrounding adoption.
As my favorite author Brene’ Brown said “You don’t have to go it alone, no one was meant to”. Life can be messy and the challenges and transitions that we all must travel through can be very burdensome. I’m here to help. I’m here to support. I’m here to facilitate you truly seeing the courage and strength inside. Cultivate calm- it may be easier than you think!
Keisha McDonald
Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CATP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Are you seeing a counselor you don't vibe with? I specialize in going beyond traditional talk therapy to help people who are struggling with LIFE. My goal is to help you feel empowered to live as your true, authentic self. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and can be experienced in various forms. I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and relationships through the use of expressive arts. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track to obtain your successful outcome.
Are you seeing a counselor you don't vibe with? I specialize in going beyond traditional talk therapy to help people who are struggling with LIFE. My goal is to help you feel empowered to live as your true, authentic self. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and can be experienced in various forms. I promote behavioral transformation by encouraging a positive outlook and the adoption of new attitudes and relationships through the use of expressive arts. I have the tools and professional experience to help you get back on track to obtain your successful outcome.
Christina McPike
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
If your child is struggling to cope with life changes, family dynamics, emotional dysregulation, trauma, experiences with the child welfare system, adoption, or other challenges, Christina can help navigate those feelings and experiences and offer a path forward.
Christina specializes in creating safe spaces for children, adolescents, teens, and families to explore their emotions and experiences in order to facilitate a harmonious family system. With over a decade of experience both locally and internationally in the fields of mental health, trauma recovery, and education, Christina utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach that is uniquely tailored to meet the family’s needs. Christina believes that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the cornerstone of progress and she values those relationships deeply.
If your child is struggling to cope with life changes, family dynamics, emotional dysregulation, trauma, experiences with the child welfare system, adoption, or other challenges, Christina can help navigate those feelings and experiences and offer a path forward.
Christina specializes in creating safe spaces for children, adolescents, teens, and families to explore their emotions and experiences in order to facilitate a harmonious family system. With over a decade of experience both locally and internationally in the fields of mental health, trauma recovery, and education, Christina utilizes an eclectic therapeutic approach that is uniquely tailored to meet the family’s needs. Christina believes that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the cornerstone of progress and she values those relationships deeply.
Dana Evans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
I understand that the transition to parenthood is a life-changing experience, and the child-bearing years can bring about many unique challenges and changes. Supporting parents and families through life transitions is my passion. Whether you are experiencing postpartum depression and/or anxiety, experiencing infertility or perinatal loss, parenting through adoption or foster care, or maybe just struggling to adjust to parenthood in general, I am able to provide a safe and comforting space for you to process your experiences.
I understand that the transition to parenthood is a life-changing experience, and the child-bearing years can bring about many unique challenges and changes. Supporting parents and families through life transitions is my passion. Whether you are experiencing postpartum depression and/or anxiety, experiencing infertility or perinatal loss, parenting through adoption or foster care, or maybe just struggling to adjust to parenthood in general, I am able to provide a safe and comforting space for you to process your experiences.
Tashuna Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Waitlist for new clients
I'm skilled in providing clinical guidance and therapy to individuals and families experiencing: anxiety, ADHD, depression, grief, anger, complex trauma, adoption/child welfare involvement, and life adjustments.
My greatest joy is helping individuals reach their full potential.
I'm skilled in providing clinical guidance and therapy to individuals and families experiencing: anxiety, ADHD, depression, grief, anger, complex trauma, adoption/child welfare involvement, and life adjustments.
My greatest joy is helping individuals reach their full potential.
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Tessa Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples with a variety of topics including; depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, adoption, relationships, self-esteem, identity, the LGBTQIA+ community & life transitions.
Virtual Only Appointments - Asking for help can be challenging so give yourself credit for taking the first step. I am honored to serve as a guide and provide support while you work through this part of your life. My goal is to provide a safe and judgement free environment where you can navigate the challenges of everyday life and process past experiences.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples with a variety of topics including; depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, adoption, relationships, self-esteem, identity, the LGBTQIA+ community & life transitions.
Virtual Only Appointments - Asking for help can be challenging so give yourself credit for taking the first step. I am honored to serve as a guide and provide support while you work through this part of your life. My goal is to provide a safe and judgement free environment where you can navigate the challenges of everyday life and process past experiences.
Ashlynn Lister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Waitlist for new clients
The majority of my time in the field has been within the child welfare system, which has allowed me to specialize in trauma treatment, as well as foster care/ adoption.
I am Clinical Therapist with over 10 years of experience working primarily with children, teens, and young adults. I use various techniques and engaging activities to learn about the areas of need a child may have and what kinds of behaviors those needs have impacted. I specialize in 10+, particularly adolescents and young adults struggling with life changes and other mental health needs.
The majority of my time in the field has been within the child welfare system, which has allowed me to specialize in trauma treatment, as well as foster care/ adoption.
I am Clinical Therapist with over 10 years of experience working primarily with children, teens, and young adults. I use various techniques and engaging activities to learn about the areas of need a child may have and what kinds of behaviors those needs have impacted. I specialize in 10+, particularly adolescents and young adults struggling with life changes and other mental health needs.
Diana "DeeDee" DiTrapani is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She received her Master's Degree from Wayne State University and has been working in the field for 34 years. Many of those years have been spent working with children and families in child welfare, foster care, and adoption.
Diana "DeeDee" DiTrapani is a Licensed Master Social Worker. She received her Master's Degree from Wayne State University and has been working in the field for 34 years. Many of those years have been spent working with children and families in child welfare, foster care, and adoption.
Mary is a licensed clinical social worker with a Bachelor and Master’s degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University. Mary has been working as a social worker with children, teens, and families for 16 years in a variety of settings including the child welfare/foster care/ adoption systems, the juvenile justice system, homelessness, and professional licensing. She has experience working with children, teens, and adults with a variety of issues including trauma, family issues, poverty, child abuse, domestic violence, life transitions, mental health, and developmental delays.
Mary is a licensed clinical social worker with a Bachelor and Master’s degree in Social Work from Western Michigan University. Mary has been working as a social worker with children, teens, and families for 16 years in a variety of settings including the child welfare/foster care/ adoption systems, the juvenile justice system, homelessness, and professional licensing. She has experience working with children, teens, and adults with a variety of issues including trauma, family issues, poverty, child abuse, domestic violence, life transitions, mental health, and developmental delays.
I have experience working with adoption, postpartum depression, anxiety and depression.
My philosophy, We all need a little help at times. Mental health is very important and takes work. I will be there to help along the way; to be a listening ear, or teach coping skills, or whatever support may be needed. My passion is to help others, help themselves.
I have experience working with adoption, postpartum depression, anxiety and depression.
My philosophy, We all need a little help at times. Mental health is very important and takes work. I will be there to help along the way; to be a listening ear, or teach coping skills, or whatever support may be needed. My passion is to help others, help themselves.
Melissa Brophy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
The ups and downs in life can be unexpected and difficult. I strive to partner with my clients to help them better cope with challenging life situations. My specialty is helping others to better learn about, understand, and cope with past trauma so that they are able to move forward in life. I believe in the power of coping skills, self-care, and evidence-based practices. I've worked with survivors of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, addiction, accidents, loss, and everyday stress. I also have extensive experience supporting those involved with the foster care system and adoption.
The ups and downs in life can be unexpected and difficult. I strive to partner with my clients to help them better cope with challenging life situations. My specialty is helping others to better learn about, understand, and cope with past trauma so that they are able to move forward in life. I believe in the power of coping skills, self-care, and evidence-based practices. I've worked with survivors of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, addiction, accidents, loss, and everyday stress. I also have extensive experience supporting those involved with the foster care system and adoption.
Linsay Wykoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49501
I am a prior foster care parent and specialize in issues surrounding foster care, adoption, and related mental health issues - including secondary trauma.
Everyone gets lost sometimes. Your goal is to get back to normal, to be happy. It is my goal to help you discover that path. My style of counseling is very intuitive & empowering. I let you lead because I want to help you explore reasons for why you do what you do, how it worked in your history, and options for future change.
I am a prior foster care parent and specialize in issues surrounding foster care, adoption, and related mental health issues - including secondary trauma.
Everyone gets lost sometimes. Your goal is to get back to normal, to be happy. It is my goal to help you discover that path. My style of counseling is very intuitive & empowering. I let you lead because I want to help you explore reasons for why you do what you do, how it worked in your history, and options for future change.
Jenny Fitzgerald
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49501 (Online Only)
Beautiful Moments Counseling is ideal for anyone struggling with any of the following: Anxiety, Diminished Sense of Self, Adoption, Infertility, Shame, Self Doubt, Perfectionism, Trauma and/or People Pleasing.
You don't have to walk this journey alone and you don't have to settle for simply "surviving" your days. I believe that thriving is possible for you and I believe that this isn't where your story ends. Beautiful Moments Counseling offers a safe place to walk through what is hurting and to discover healing.
Beautiful Moments Counseling is ideal for anyone struggling with any of the following: Anxiety, Diminished Sense of Self, Adoption, Infertility, Shame, Self Doubt, Perfectionism, Trauma and/or People Pleasing.
You don't have to walk this journey alone and you don't have to settle for simply "surviving" your days. I believe that thriving is possible for you and I believe that this isn't where your story ends. Beautiful Moments Counseling offers a safe place to walk through what is hurting and to discover healing.
Tamara Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49507
Waitlist for new clients
As a parent of bi-racial children I am passionate in helping multi-ethnic and interracial families, as well as those exploring the process towards foster care and adoption.
If life has become chaotic and overwhelming, or maybe you feel isolated with anxiety, stress, depression or grief, I’m available to help you sort through these challenges. Many struggle with parenting burnout, chronic illness, abuse, family dynamics, employment, transitions and relationships. As a licensed clinical social worker with over 20yrs of professional experience I've had the privilege to work with adults, kids and families, seeking emotional support and healing. Through the scope of a multicultural background, I offer a therapeutic approach emphasized by inclusion, awareness, compassion, advocacy, patience and cooperation.
As a parent of bi-racial children I am passionate in helping multi-ethnic and interracial families, as well as those exploring the process towards foster care and adoption.
If life has become chaotic and overwhelming, or maybe you feel isolated with anxiety, stress, depression or grief, I’m available to help you sort through these challenges. Many struggle with parenting burnout, chronic illness, abuse, family dynamics, employment, transitions and relationships. As a licensed clinical social worker with over 20yrs of professional experience I've had the privilege to work with adults, kids and families, seeking emotional support and healing. Through the scope of a multicultural background, I offer a therapeutic approach emphasized by inclusion, awareness, compassion, advocacy, patience and cooperation.
See more therapy options for Grand Rapids
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Grand Rapids
- Ada
- Allendale
- Byron Center
- Caledonia
- East Grand Rapids
- Grandville
- Hudsonville
- Jenison
- Kentwood
- Lowell
- Rockford
- Wyoming
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.