Adoption Therapists in Ionia, MI

Photo of Kyle Alan Ford, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kyle Alan Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ionia, MI 48846
Anxiety, depression, addiction, neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, OCD), and traumatic experiences can all take away a person’s voice, understandability, and respect, especially during adolescence and adulthood. There are pieces to their story which a person can either block out, ignore, or fear. The problem comes when these pieces eat away at the person’s emotional, mental, social, spiritual, and/or vocational health. Building resilience involves getting that voice back, feeling understood, and respected in an inclusive environment.
Anxiety, depression, addiction, neurodivergence (ADHD, Autism, OCD), and traumatic experiences can all take away a person’s voice, understandability, and respect, especially during adolescence and adulthood. There are pieces to their story which a person can either block out, ignore, or fear. The problem comes when these pieces eat away at the person’s emotional, mental, social, spiritual, and/or vocational health. Building resilience involves getting that voice back, feeling understood, and respected in an inclusive environment.
(616) 404-4436 View (616) 404-4436
Photo of Benjamin Bookie - Quies Christian Counseling Services, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Quies Christian Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ionia, MI 48846
We (Ben and Taylora Bookie) are a husband and wife team who share a common vision to minister to individuals, couples, and families who need support and encouragement in any area of their lives. We love God and we love people, and out of this love we want to come alongside others to promote wellness and health in all areas of life.
We (Ben and Taylora Bookie) are a husband and wife team who share a common vision to minister to individuals, couples, and families who need support and encouragement in any area of their lives. We love God and we love people, and out of this love we want to come alongside others to promote wellness and health in all areas of life.
(616) 208-2995 View (616) 208-2995
Photo of Chantelle Benko, LMSW, MHP &ES, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chantelle Benko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MHP &ES
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ionia, MI 48846
Waitlist for new clients
Sometimes life gives us more than we can handle by ourselves & we could use a bit of help navigating our way through it. We all have struggles as well as our own individualized higher purpose to fulfill. I'm here to help process your thoughts, feelings, & experiences so you may move forward in a healthier, more positive direction where peace & contentment can be found using a mind, body, spirit approach to healing & growth. We all deserve to live life to the fullest & I can offer you the counseling tools, resources, encouragement & support to assist you in overcoming life's obstacles & challenges encountered throughout your journey.
Sometimes life gives us more than we can handle by ourselves & we could use a bit of help navigating our way through it. We all have struggles as well as our own individualized higher purpose to fulfill. I'm here to help process your thoughts, feelings, & experiences so you may move forward in a healthier, more positive direction where peace & contentment can be found using a mind, body, spirit approach to healing & growth. We all deserve to live life to the fullest & I can offer you the counseling tools, resources, encouragement & support to assist you in overcoming life's obstacles & challenges encountered throughout your journey.
(616) 205-9126 View (616) 205-9126

Online Therapists

Photo of Mary Dufon, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Dufon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
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.
(616) 319-4731 View (616) 319-4731
Photo of Nancy Lonsberry, RPT-S, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Nancy Lonsberry
Limited Licensed Psychologist, RPT-S, LLP
Verified Verified
Jackson, MI 49202
Nancy is a Limited Licensed Psychologist and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adults and families. She has experience in providing treatment for many issues including childhood trauma, sexual abuse, behavioral problems, parent-child relationships, attachment, foster care and adoption, child development, attention deficit disorders, autism, stress management, anger management, anxiety, depression, and other emotional impairments.
Nancy is a Limited Licensed Psychologist and a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor with over 30 years of experience working with children, adults and families. She has experience in providing treatment for many issues including childhood trauma, sexual abuse, behavioral problems, parent-child relationships, attachment, foster care and adoption, child development, attention deficit disorders, autism, stress management, anger management, anxiety, depression, and other emotional impairments.
(517) 459-0033 View (517) 459-0033
Photo of Carol Harvey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
Specialties: Adoption issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma, Adolescents, Adults, Families, and Marriages.
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
Specialties: Adoption issues, Grief & Loss, Anxiety & Depression, Trauma, Adolescents, Adults, Families, and Marriages.
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
(269) 280-4088 View (269) 280-4088
Photo of Janet Claire Goldner, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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!
(616) 577-8980 View (616) 577-8980
Photo of Jenny Fitzgerald, MA, LPC, Counselor
Jenny Fitzgerald
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Adrian, MI 49221  (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.
(517) 343-1498 View (517) 343-1498
Photo of Alesha Hendricks, LLMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
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.
(616) 737-7771 View (616) 737-7771
Photo of Susan Rood, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Rood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allegan, MI 49010
My recent focus has been on the trauma impact related to abuse, neglect, foster care placements, and adoption.
Everyone struggles with life's hardships at times. I can appreciate how hard it can be to start the therapy process. I want to develop a place of safety, connectedness, and encouragement for you to come during those times. It is my hope that we work together in developing goals that are important to you. We will work as a team to create a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and compassion to help walk you through your life journey.
My recent focus has been on the trauma impact related to abuse, neglect, foster care placements, and adoption.
Everyone struggles with life's hardships at times. I can appreciate how hard it can be to start the therapy process. I want to develop a place of safety, connectedness, and encouragement for you to come during those times. It is my hope that we work together in developing goals that are important to you. We will work as a team to create a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and compassion to help walk you through your life journey.
(269) 399-4772 View (269) 399-4772
Photo of Diana Ditrapani, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Ditrapani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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.
(616) 253-8970 View (616) 253-8970
Photo of Linsay Wykoff, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linsay Wykoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jackson, MI 49201
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.
(517) 628-4991 View (517) 628-4991
Photo of Jeffrey C Loucks, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey C Loucks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
I have degrees in Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Social Work with many years of experience working in Family Court, Foster Care & Adoption, and Refugee Services.
Sometimes life can be challenging, to the point that you might feel overwhelmed with everything that is occurring and finding someone to talk to can be difficult at best. I use Integrative psychotherapy techniques in my work with adolescents, adults, & couples which allows me to consider the individual characteristics, preferences, needs, abilities, spiritual beliefs, & motivation level of each individual client and presenting concern. By combining elements drawn from different schools of psychological theory & research I aim to be more flexible & inclusive, making therapy something to look forward to.
I have degrees in Psychology, Criminal Justice, and Social Work with many years of experience working in Family Court, Foster Care & Adoption, and Refugee Services.
Sometimes life can be challenging, to the point that you might feel overwhelmed with everything that is occurring and finding someone to talk to can be difficult at best. I use Integrative psychotherapy techniques in my work with adolescents, adults, & couples which allows me to consider the individual characteristics, preferences, needs, abilities, spiritual beliefs, & motivation level of each individual client and presenting concern. By combining elements drawn from different schools of psychological theory & research I aim to be more flexible & inclusive, making therapy something to look forward to.
(517) 826-1162 View (517) 826-1162
Photo of Erin VanVeen, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin VanVeen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
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.
(616) 389-0165 View (616) 389-0165
Photo of Rose (Shoshie) Fox-Long, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rose (Shoshie) Fox-Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823
I see a variety of populations, all of which include: Children/youth/families counseling, couples, addiction/substance abuse, behavioral problems, adoption, brown children/youth/adults, grief, anxiety, depression, life stages/obstacles, stress, body image issues, eating disorders, and advocacy.
Hello! Within my first few years of college, I finally figured out what I wanted to do as a career. I realized I wanted to help people through their own life obstacles, trauma, life stages, and more! I want to help others with their mental health and make their world a better place. As I continue to learn and grow throughout my professional career, I want to work with a variety of populations and ages. To me, counseling is a journey of being honest with who you are and who you want to present to the world. I believe that it is an honor to be able to embark on this journey with you and to share unique experiences of ourselves.
I see a variety of populations, all of which include: Children/youth/families counseling, couples, addiction/substance abuse, behavioral problems, adoption, brown children/youth/adults, grief, anxiety, depression, life stages/obstacles, stress, body image issues, eating disorders, and advocacy.
Hello! Within my first few years of college, I finally figured out what I wanted to do as a career. I realized I wanted to help people through their own life obstacles, trauma, life stages, and more! I want to help others with their mental health and make their world a better place. As I continue to learn and grow throughout my professional career, I want to work with a variety of populations and ages. To me, counseling is a journey of being honest with who you are and who you want to present to the world. I believe that it is an honor to be able to embark on this journey with you and to share unique experiences of ourselves.
(517) 878-9801 View (517) 878-9801
Photo of Amy Mills, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48933
As an adoptive parent and counselor, I am passionate about helping families navigate the unique challenges of Adoption and Empowering Women to OVERcome trauma in a safe and supportive space.
Do you experience pent-up trauma, constant worry, or sadness? Do you struggle to understand your kids big emotions or help them manage daily life? My passion is to work with you to restore your emotional well-being by reducing your anxiety, depression, & trauma responses as well increase relationship satisfaction. Call today for your free consultation.
As an adoptive parent and counselor, I am passionate about helping families navigate the unique challenges of Adoption and Empowering Women to OVERcome trauma in a safe and supportive space.
Do you experience pent-up trauma, constant worry, or sadness? Do you struggle to understand your kids big emotions or help them manage daily life? My passion is to work with you to restore your emotional well-being by reducing your anxiety, depression, & trauma responses as well increase relationship satisfaction. Call today for your free consultation.
(517) 929-8153 View (517) 929-8153
Photo of Stephanie S. McCann, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie S. McCann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48805  (Online Only)
I have worked with families and children impacted by trauma including issues of foster care, adoption, parent/child attachment, child custody issues, parenting time, and mental health.
I believe that resilience is in all of us and healing is a path we can choose to walk at any time if we are willing to take the first step. Sometimes even helping professionals need their own helper, someone to listen to their experiences and walk alongside them as they process the challenges of helping. Focusing on secondary traumatic stress and occupational stress issues I believe my role as a therapist is to support clients as they navigate their healing process.
I have worked with families and children impacted by trauma including issues of foster care, adoption, parent/child attachment, child custody issues, parenting time, and mental health.
I believe that resilience is in all of us and healing is a path we can choose to walk at any time if we are willing to take the first step. Sometimes even helping professionals need their own helper, someone to listen to their experiences and walk alongside them as they process the challenges of helping. Focusing on secondary traumatic stress and occupational stress issues I believe my role as a therapist is to support clients as they navigate their healing process.
(517) 300-2306 View (517) 300-2306
Photo of Christine Carrothers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Carrothers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dewitt, MI 48820  (Online Only)
Specific areas of expertise include adoption, transracial identity, and traumatic grief.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, young adults, and adults from a trauma informed perspective to gain healing and wellness. My focus for providing quality care is to establish a safe space for clients to do their best work at learning self care, positive self image, and safe boundaries. I utilize an eclectic approach with clients, helping them pursue the right care for their needs.
Specific areas of expertise include adoption, transracial identity, and traumatic grief.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, young adults, and adults from a trauma informed perspective to gain healing and wellness. My focus for providing quality care is to establish a safe space for clients to do their best work at learning self care, positive self image, and safe boundaries. I utilize an eclectic approach with clients, helping them pursue the right care for their needs.
(734) 404-7514 View (734) 404-7514
Photo of Robyn Heiler, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robyn Heiler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring Lake, MI 49456
Waitlist for new clients
Special Interests: * Couples * Family Counseling * Infertility * Women's Issues * Behavioral issues in children * Mood and Anxiety Issues * Adjustment issues * Lifespan Adjustment * Adoption/foster care * Faith Based Counseling (upon request) *Cancer Support.
Life is hard. No one is immune to stress, fluctuating emotions, and various forms of challenges throughout their life. Taking the first step always takes bravery! You are not alone. We would aim to create a partnership wherein we would work to meet your personal goals by discovering and utilizing your strengths, engaging in problem solving, and implementing new strategies for change and growth. I would provide a safe, nonjudgmental, caring environment in which you could gain the comfort you need to grow in self-awareness and develop positive coping skills. I am trained in the state of MI to provide Clinical Supervision to LLPC's.
Special Interests: * Couples * Family Counseling * Infertility * Women's Issues * Behavioral issues in children * Mood and Anxiety Issues * Adjustment issues * Lifespan Adjustment * Adoption/foster care * Faith Based Counseling (upon request) *Cancer Support.
Life is hard. No one is immune to stress, fluctuating emotions, and various forms of challenges throughout their life. Taking the first step always takes bravery! You are not alone. We would aim to create a partnership wherein we would work to meet your personal goals by discovering and utilizing your strengths, engaging in problem solving, and implementing new strategies for change and growth. I would provide a safe, nonjudgmental, caring environment in which you could gain the comfort you need to grow in self-awareness and develop positive coping skills. I am trained in the state of MI to provide Clinical Supervision to LLPC's.
(616) 236-5219 View (616) 236-5219
Photo of Diane C Streng, MLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Diane C Streng
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MLP
Verified Verified
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre-marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues.
Individual, family, and couples counseling for all ages and problems.Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre-marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues. Twenty five years of experience. Located downtown Grand Haven at the Harbourfront Place, Suite 370.
Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre-marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues.
Individual, family, and couples counseling for all ages and problems.Counseling for abuse, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression, fears, self-esteem, stress, marital, pre-marital, divorce, pregancy, relationship issues, parenting and step-parenting problems, employment, school, adoption, grief, death, religious issues. Twenty five years of experience. Located downtown Grand Haven at the Harbourfront Place, Suite 370.
(616) 847-1530 View (616) 847-1530

See more therapy options for Ionia

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.