Adoption Therapists in Edina, MN

Photo of Balfour Laura - Balfour Therapy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Balfour Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435
Hi! I’m an inter-section theorist. I’m a mixed race person. I come from a social justice lens and work from a diversity, race, cultural and also non-binary foundation. I work with all ages, individuals, families and couples. I treat anxiety & depression, behavior/defiance issues, offer parenting support, holistic health, nutrition planning, eating disorders, chemical dependency, intelligence/gifted/sensitivity issues, and personality disorders. I have experience in attachment/ adoption and autism in women. I have an efficient, compassionate approach and sense of humor. I’m passionate and interested in your story.
Hi! I’m an inter-section theorist. I’m a mixed race person. I come from a social justice lens and work from a diversity, race, cultural and also non-binary foundation. I work with all ages, individuals, families and couples. I treat anxiety & depression, behavior/defiance issues, offer parenting support, holistic health, nutrition planning, eating disorders, chemical dependency, intelligence/gifted/sensitivity issues, and personality disorders. I have experience in attachment/ adoption and autism in women. I have an efficient, compassionate approach and sense of humor. I’m passionate and interested in your story.
(612) 255-9037 View (612) 255-9037
Photo of Sally Ankerfelt, MDiv, Pastoral Counselor
Sally Ankerfelt
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55416
Do you or your family feel tired, stuck in chaos and ready to throw in the towel? Adoptive families may face unique challenges that require a supportive professional who has personal and professional knowledge of attachment adaptations, trauma responses, anxiety, grief, and the adoption circle. As a parent of three, all adopted transracially, I have faced both the joy and struggle of parenting. When working with you, I will bring my personal and professional experience using a sensitive, non-judgmental approach as I help you find renewed hope and joy for yourself and your family.
Do you or your family feel tired, stuck in chaos and ready to throw in the towel? Adoptive families may face unique challenges that require a supportive professional who has personal and professional knowledge of attachment adaptations, trauma responses, anxiety, grief, and the adoption circle. As a parent of three, all adopted transracially, I have faced both the joy and struggle of parenting. When working with you, I will bring my personal and professional experience using a sensitive, non-judgmental approach as I help you find renewed hope and joy for yourself and your family.
(612) 284-1622 View (612) 284-1622
Photo of Katie Ducklow, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Ducklow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55436
I have experience working with a variety of other symptoms and situations including: trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, adoption, parenting work, immigration and acculturation, and behavior difficulties.
Taking the step to ask for help for you or your child is a courageous one. Whether you are coming to talk about your own life or to learn how to best care for your child’s needs, I work to make sure you feel supported, heard, and understood. I provide a safe place for you to process and talk about things that happen in your life, memories from the past, or thoughts and emotions that may feel overwhelming. For parents, I help you understand why your child is acting anxious, defiant, or sad, and give you tools to support them. I seek to be an empathetic partner to walk alongside you or your family in your journey toward healing.
I have experience working with a variety of other symptoms and situations including: trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, anger, adoption, parenting work, immigration and acculturation, and behavior difficulties.
Taking the step to ask for help for you or your child is a courageous one. Whether you are coming to talk about your own life or to learn how to best care for your child’s needs, I work to make sure you feel supported, heard, and understood. I provide a safe place for you to process and talk about things that happen in your life, memories from the past, or thoughts and emotions that may feel overwhelming. For parents, I help you understand why your child is acting anxious, defiant, or sad, and give you tools to support them. I seek to be an empathetic partner to walk alongside you or your family in your journey toward healing.
(651) 412-2779 View (651) 412-2779
Photo of Sarah Atkins, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Sarah Atkins
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
Sometimes we find ourselves struggling, and it seems that no matter how hard we try, we cannot seem to find a way out on our own. It can be difficult to seek help, and I believe that a collaborative, trusting, and empathic therapeutic relationship serves as the foundation for my clients to experience meaningful growth and healing. I provide therapy to adults, adolescents, and couples. Some of my specialties include working with clients coping with trauma, relationship issues, or anxiety or depression. I have expertise working with clients navigating parenthood, adoption, pregnancy, and women's health struggles.
Sometimes we find ourselves struggling, and it seems that no matter how hard we try, we cannot seem to find a way out on our own. It can be difficult to seek help, and I believe that a collaborative, trusting, and empathic therapeutic relationship serves as the foundation for my clients to experience meaningful growth and healing. I provide therapy to adults, adolescents, and couples. Some of my specialties include working with clients coping with trauma, relationship issues, or anxiety or depression. I have expertise working with clients navigating parenthood, adoption, pregnancy, and women's health struggles.
(612) 324-1088 View (612) 324-1088
Photo of Lisa S. Squire - Lisa S. Squire, PhD, LP Clinical Psychologist, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Lisa S. Squire, PhD, LP Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435
Psychological testing--ADD/ADHD, learning disorders (LD), pre- adoption, pre-bariatric surgery psych evaluations.
I imagine you're seeking a psychotherapist for counseling because you hope to make some important changes. Success working with a psychologist depends on you feeling comfortable engaging in a collaborative manner with her. Some therapy sessions may be difficult as you ask important questions about yourself, how you function in the world. As you proceed, you may experience frustration, confusion, anxiety, self-doubt and/or conflicted feelings, but at the end of your psychotherapy you'll most likely have learned something new to help you with the concerns that brought you in to seek psychological treatment.
Psychological testing--ADD/ADHD, learning disorders (LD), pre- adoption, pre-bariatric surgery psych evaluations.
I imagine you're seeking a psychotherapist for counseling because you hope to make some important changes. Success working with a psychologist depends on you feeling comfortable engaging in a collaborative manner with her. Some therapy sessions may be difficult as you ask important questions about yourself, how you function in the world. As you proceed, you may experience frustration, confusion, anxiety, self-doubt and/or conflicted feelings, but at the end of your psychotherapy you'll most likely have learned something new to help you with the concerns that brought you in to seek psychological treatment.
(952) 373-0446 View (952) 373-0446
Photo of Janet Uri-Jones, MA LP, Psychologist
Janet Uri-Jones
Psychologist, MA LP
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55424  (Online Only)
I’ve had many years of experience with LGBT+, parenting, adoption, divorce, and medical illness.
Many people are finding life more difficult these days. There is often so much to deal with in our personal lives, add the impact of world events and it can all just be too much. Having someone to listen and support you can make a big difference in coping with your struggles and not feeling alone. I’ve never met anyone that doesn’t like being listened to and understood. My focus in therapy is to help you get relief from your pain and explore ways to cope with life’s ongoing challenges.
I’ve had many years of experience with LGBT+, parenting, adoption, divorce, and medical illness.
Many people are finding life more difficult these days. There is often so much to deal with in our personal lives, add the impact of world events and it can all just be too much. Having someone to listen and support you can make a big difference in coping with your struggles and not feeling alone. I’ve never met anyone that doesn’t like being listened to and understood. My focus in therapy is to help you get relief from your pain and explore ways to cope with life’s ongoing challenges.
(952) 243-3143 View (952) 243-3143
Photo of Jess Holly, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jess Holly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Jess is passionate about helping children, families, and adults navigate life’s challenges and reach their goals for mental wellbeing by merging science backed therapies with compassion and creativity. Jess earned her Bachelor’s degree in Child Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Minnesota. Since 2009, she has been dedicated to working with children and families across the Twin Cities, offering innovative therapy for a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns. Jess works with people throughout the lifespan – whether you’re 3 or 93, she’s here to help.
Jess is passionate about helping children, families, and adults navigate life’s challenges and reach their goals for mental wellbeing by merging science backed therapies with compassion and creativity. Jess earned her Bachelor’s degree in Child Psychology and a Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Minnesota. Since 2009, she has been dedicated to working with children and families across the Twin Cities, offering innovative therapy for a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns. Jess works with people throughout the lifespan – whether you’re 3 or 93, she’s here to help.
(651) 359-9875 View (651) 359-9875
Photo of Suzanne M Johnson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne M Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435
I serve adults, families, and children (ages 4-18) with a variety of challenges. I help men and women handle breakups or relationship difficulties, cope with being single, navigate dating, create healthy relationships, manage anger/ frustration, deal with depression, explore adoptee issues, and adapt to change or loss. I serve families with children who are pushing boundaries, fighting with or blaming others, worrying excessively, yelling/talking back, lacking appropriate social skills or have poor self-esteem. I also work with adoptive families who are concerned about their adopted child's "problem" behaviors, difficulties adjusting, or challenges in connecting with others.
I serve adults, families, and children (ages 4-18) with a variety of challenges. I help men and women handle breakups or relationship difficulties, cope with being single, navigate dating, create healthy relationships, manage anger/ frustration, deal with depression, explore adoptee issues, and adapt to change or loss. I serve families with children who are pushing boundaries, fighting with or blaming others, worrying excessively, yelling/talking back, lacking appropriate social skills or have poor self-esteem. I also work with adoptive families who are concerned about their adopted child's "problem" behaviors, difficulties adjusting, or challenges in connecting with others.
(612) 217-1916 View (612) 217-1916
Photo of Ella Bonner Ramos, MHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ella Bonner Ramos
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHP
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
I am passionate about developing self-identity, maternal mental health, and serving parents who are seeking to strengthen their parental skills and relationships with their children. I am devoted to utilizing cultural enrichment, exploring generational connections and patterns with clients, and healing places of trauma within the BIPOC community.
I am passionate about developing self-identity, maternal mental health, and serving parents who are seeking to strengthen their parental skills and relationships with their children. I am devoted to utilizing cultural enrichment, exploring generational connections and patterns with clients, and healing places of trauma within the BIPOC community.
(952) 243-2593 View (952) 243-2593
Photo of Emily Benson, MSW, LICSW, RPT-S, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Benson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RPT-S, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55436
Waitlist for new clients
The most common feedback I get from clients is that they can tell that I love what I do. They are so right! I believe it is a strength, not a deficit, to reach out to someone for help and support. Whether it's acute trauma, behavioral issues, or adjustment to difficult life circumstances, being heard and supported in a therapeutic setting can make a world of difference. My approach with clients is to meet them where they are, determine where they want to be, and to be an empathic witness for them in their healing journey.
The most common feedback I get from clients is that they can tell that I love what I do. They are so right! I believe it is a strength, not a deficit, to reach out to someone for help and support. Whether it's acute trauma, behavioral issues, or adjustment to difficult life circumstances, being heard and supported in a therapeutic setting can make a world of difference. My approach with clients is to meet them where they are, determine where they want to be, and to be an empathic witness for them in their healing journey.
(612) 260-9710 View (612) 260-9710
Photo of Marguerite Ohrtman - Next Adventure Counseling and Consulting, LPC, LPCC
Next Adventure Counseling and Consulting
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Our therapists are committed to your professional and personal growth at Next Adventure Counseling. Our team of highly trained therapists brings expertises, humor, compassion, and understanding to every session. We recognize that everyone's journey is unique, so we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our counseling services are rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring a holistic approach that considers your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. We offer in person and virtual therapy options as well.
Our therapists are committed to your professional and personal growth at Next Adventure Counseling. Our team of highly trained therapists brings expertises, humor, compassion, and understanding to every session. We recognize that everyone's journey is unique, so we develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our counseling services are rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring a holistic approach that considers your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. We offer in person and virtual therapy options as well.
(952) 295-3134 View (952) 295-3134
Photo of Daniel Legerski, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Daniel Legerski
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55424
If life seems out of balance, you find it difficult to cope with stress, you can’t stop worrying, you are often sad or depressed, or you feel dissatisfied with relationships or your life’s direction, then perhaps psychotherapy can help. I specialize in helping adults and older adolescents (age 16 and older) overcome issues that range from anxiety, depression, mild trauma, anger, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, compulsive behaviors, and substance abuse/codependency issues to managing life transitions.
If life seems out of balance, you find it difficult to cope with stress, you can’t stop worrying, you are often sad or depressed, or you feel dissatisfied with relationships or your life’s direction, then perhaps psychotherapy can help. I specialize in helping adults and older adolescents (age 16 and older) overcome issues that range from anxiety, depression, mild trauma, anger, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, compulsive behaviors, and substance abuse/codependency issues to managing life transitions.
(952) 200-9804 View (952) 200-9804
Photo of Chris Wheeler Doe, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chris Wheeler Doe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling overwhelmed, easily irritated, frequently worried, or sad? Do you procrastinate or avoid making decisions? I often hear the phrase "I'm not sure what the problem is but I know I am just not happy." Maybe you just experienced a major life stressor or maybe you have struggled with these issues for years. I offer a safe and supportive environment where you can begin to explore what the problem really is, move towards solutions that will help you cope with challenging life situations and release yourself from any "old baggage" that may be hanging on.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, easily irritated, frequently worried, or sad? Do you procrastinate or avoid making decisions? I often hear the phrase "I'm not sure what the problem is but I know I am just not happy." Maybe you just experienced a major life stressor or maybe you have struggled with these issues for years. I offer a safe and supportive environment where you can begin to explore what the problem really is, move towards solutions that will help you cope with challenging life situations and release yourself from any "old baggage" that may be hanging on.
(952) 314-5491 View (952) 314-5491
Photo of Allison Kay Peterson, MA, LP, Psychologist
Allison Kay Peterson
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
My goal is to help you manage the role of parenting in a supportive and non-judgmental environment, develop a more balanced family life and address emotional and behavioral concerns within your home. I am able to work with the individuals in your family as well as your family as a whole. In my work, I take a direct yet affirming approach in addressing complex emotional and behavioral concerns. I especially enjoy engaging families in developing effective communication and behavior management skills.
My goal is to help you manage the role of parenting in a supportive and non-judgmental environment, develop a more balanced family life and address emotional and behavioral concerns within your home. I am able to work with the individuals in your family as well as your family as a whole. In my work, I take a direct yet affirming approach in addressing complex emotional and behavioral concerns. I especially enjoy engaging families in developing effective communication and behavior management skills.
(612) 260-6879 View (612) 260-6879
Photo of Catherine Porthan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Porthan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55424
I enjoy working with children, adults, individuals, couples and families. I assist in helping others to explore deeper motivations and recognize their own special gifts and talents.
I enjoy working with children, adults, individuals, couples and families. I assist in helping others to explore deeper motivations and recognize their own special gifts and talents.
(612) 360-2539 View (612) 360-2539
Photo of A Marie Gateley, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Marie Gateley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55436
Are you trying to sort through and make sense of the many messages on how to be a ‘good’ person, parent, spouse, child, Christian you’ve received throughout your life? Have you been hurt by someone you thought was safe? Are you struggling to break out of patterns of behaviors or as a parent, struggling to not do what you always said you wouldn’t? Do you find it difficult to connect with someone you care about? Even if it is only with ourselves (which it usually is not), we are made to be in relationship.
Are you trying to sort through and make sense of the many messages on how to be a ‘good’ person, parent, spouse, child, Christian you’ve received throughout your life? Have you been hurt by someone you thought was safe? Are you struggling to break out of patterns of behaviors or as a parent, struggling to not do what you always said you wouldn’t? Do you find it difficult to connect with someone you care about? Even if it is only with ourselves (which it usually is not), we are made to be in relationship.
(651) 240-6504 View (651) 240-6504
Photo of Amy Engelhard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Engelhard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Parenting is HARD. Children are an emotional rollercoaster and it is a new challenge every day trying to figure out how to be "good enough" for them. Every step brings a continued feeling of not knowing. For many families, this can result parents in feeling down, anxious, exhausted, or irritable. Guilt can fall onto us because all these emotions are put on our children and partners. It can be lonely to feel this way about the joyous world of being a parent.
Parenting is HARD. Children are an emotional rollercoaster and it is a new challenge every day trying to figure out how to be "good enough" for them. Every step brings a continued feeling of not knowing. For many families, this can result parents in feeling down, anxious, exhausted, or irritable. Guilt can fall onto us because all these emotions are put on our children and partners. It can be lonely to feel this way about the joyous world of being a parent.
(612) 424-3970 View (612) 424-3970
Photo of Catherine Molenaar, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Catherine Molenaar
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435
Are you at a point in life where you're feeling disconnected from in your closest relationships and from yourself? Whether you’re a parent feeling overwhelmed, a professional experiencing burnout, or a partner feeling disconnected... you find yourself feeling stuck, repeating the same patterns of codependence, fighting or people pleasing. If this sounds like you or your relationship, it's time to make a change. I work with individuals & couples, just like you, struggling to manage their roles, expectations, and unhealed traumatic experiences. Their relationships are suffering & they feel disconnected from what used to feel good.
Are you at a point in life where you're feeling disconnected from in your closest relationships and from yourself? Whether you’re a parent feeling overwhelmed, a professional experiencing burnout, or a partner feeling disconnected... you find yourself feeling stuck, repeating the same patterns of codependence, fighting or people pleasing. If this sounds like you or your relationship, it's time to make a change. I work with individuals & couples, just like you, struggling to manage their roles, expectations, and unhealed traumatic experiences. Their relationships are suffering & they feel disconnected from what used to feel good.
(952) 395-9057 View (952) 395-9057
Photo of Brenda R. Peabody, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Brenda R. Peabody
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435
My personal philosophy and professional approach to therapy is based on the belief that when therapeutic objectives are developed collaboratively between the client and therapist, there will be greater productivity and ultimate success of the treatment. The methodologies and theoretical applications that I use are a conglomerate of tools based on extensive academic training in health psychology, which includes the scientific study of the bio-chemical and neuro-physiological processes of the human brain & body and its effect on emotions, thoughts, perception and behavior; and furthermore incorporates the use of cognitive-behavioral, psycho-analytical, object relations, multi-cultural and humanistic perspectives.
My personal philosophy and professional approach to therapy is based on the belief that when therapeutic objectives are developed collaboratively between the client and therapist, there will be greater productivity and ultimate success of the treatment. The methodologies and theoretical applications that I use are a conglomerate of tools based on extensive academic training in health psychology, which includes the scientific study of the bio-chemical and neuro-physiological processes of the human brain & body and its effect on emotions, thoughts, perception and behavior; and furthermore incorporates the use of cognitive-behavioral, psycho-analytical, object relations, multi-cultural and humanistic perspectives.
(651) 456-8018 View (651) 456-8018
Photo of Randi Beth Deal, MA, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Randi Beth Deal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that hurt? Do you have a vague memory of when things were easier and life was more satisfying? Life, with it's expected and unexpected transitions can be challenging for all of us, even agonizing at times. We all need help from others on occasion...I am a strength based therapist who believes that by design you have everything you need to navigate through these times and I want to help you in recapturing something more promising. I'm ready when you are.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that hurt? Do you have a vague memory of when things were easier and life was more satisfying? Life, with it's expected and unexpected transitions can be challenging for all of us, even agonizing at times. We all need help from others on occasion...I am a strength based therapist who believes that by design you have everything you need to navigate through these times and I want to help you in recapturing something more promising. I'm ready when you are.
(612) 986-2927 View (612) 986-2927
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.