Adoption Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Megan Montgomery Clark, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Montgomery Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
My counseling experience includes trauma, anxiety, depression, transition issues, infertility, adoption, gender/sexual orientation, special needs parenting, loss/grief issues, trauma, church hurt, body image, childhood abuse, and divorce.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the primary ingredient to successful therapy. I work hard to create a warm, trusting relationship with each client and go at their pace. I enjoy working with individuals (21+). Particular areas of interest for me include trauma healing, creating healthy attachment relationships, emotionally healthy spirituality (including deconstruction/reconstruction), body image, parenting support, and women's issues. I welcome and value people from all religious backgrounds, sexual orientations and ethnicities. I see clients from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, both in-person and virtually.
My counseling experience includes trauma, anxiety, depression, transition issues, infertility, adoption, gender/sexual orientation, special needs parenting, loss/grief issues, trauma, church hurt, body image, childhood abuse, and divorce.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the primary ingredient to successful therapy. I work hard to create a warm, trusting relationship with each client and go at their pace. I enjoy working with individuals (21+). Particular areas of interest for me include trauma healing, creating healthy attachment relationships, emotionally healthy spirituality (including deconstruction/reconstruction), body image, parenting support, and women's issues. I welcome and value people from all religious backgrounds, sexual orientations and ethnicities. I see clients from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, both in-person and virtually.
(704) 387-5211 View (704) 387-5211
Photo of Sarah (Sally) M Gordon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah (Sally) M Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
I am an outpatient therapist in Charlotte, NC specializing in adoption and the treatment of developmental trauma. I am keenly versed in the psychological issues and unique social/emotional challenges these children present. Adoptive families are often frustrated and sometimes frightened by their children's behaviors. Most of the children I treat spent time in an orphanage or in the foster care system. A few were adopted at birth.They learned early in life not to rely on adults as a result of early deprivation. Parenting is a challenge! Psychoeducation and support are the essential tools to create healthy families.
I am an outpatient therapist in Charlotte, NC specializing in adoption and the treatment of developmental trauma. I am keenly versed in the psychological issues and unique social/emotional challenges these children present. Adoptive families are often frustrated and sometimes frightened by their children's behaviors. Most of the children I treat spent time in an orphanage or in the foster care system. A few were adopted at birth.They learned early in life not to rely on adults as a result of early deprivation. Parenting is a challenge! Psychoeducation and support are the essential tools to create healthy families.
(704) 215-4598 View (704) 215-4598
Photo of Jennifer Davidson, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Accepting New Clients! I am passionate about working with children and their families to collaborate together to make a strong impact to promote healing and improve family functioning. I work with children of all ages, as well as support parents, who may experience difficult situations or experiences in their lives such as adoption, ADHD, anxiety, Autism, emotional and behavioral issues, school disruption, and trauma. I specialize in using play therapy to help children learn to self-regulate, improve executive functioning, increase self-esteem, deal with trauma, increase social skills, and develop positive relationships.
Accepting New Clients! I am passionate about working with children and their families to collaborate together to make a strong impact to promote healing and improve family functioning. I work with children of all ages, as well as support parents, who may experience difficult situations or experiences in their lives such as adoption, ADHD, anxiety, Autism, emotional and behavioral issues, school disruption, and trauma. I specialize in using play therapy to help children learn to self-regulate, improve executive functioning, increase self-esteem, deal with trauma, increase social skills, and develop positive relationships.
(704) 286-8475 x103 View (704) 286-8475 x103
Photo of Kristen L. Venit, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen L. Venit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
I also have considerable experience helping parents navigate issues related to divorce, adoption, anxiety, grief, loss and attention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering therapeutic support to individuals, couples, and families. Psychotherapy provides a space that is uniquely your own where you can address your concerns in a safe place, free from judgment. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide empathy and support while giving you useful feedback and insight to help resolve difficulties you are experiencing. We will work together to help you find the tools and resources necessary to help you cope with stressful situations.
I also have considerable experience helping parents navigate issues related to divorce, adoption, anxiety, grief, loss and attention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker offering therapeutic support to individuals, couples, and families. Psychotherapy provides a space that is uniquely your own where you can address your concerns in a safe place, free from judgment. My approach to psychotherapy is to provide empathy and support while giving you useful feedback and insight to help resolve difficulties you are experiencing. We will work together to help you find the tools and resources necessary to help you cope with stressful situations.
(704) 594-3027 View (704) 594-3027
Photo of Amy A. Hecht, PhD, Psychologist
Amy A. Hecht
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a special clinical concentration in relationships, couples and adoption.
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a special clinical concentration in relationships, couples and adoption.
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
(917) 652-6857 View (917) 652-6857
Photo of Maddie Farrior, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maddie Farrior
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
Are experiences from your past affecting your self-esteem and relationships? Do you wake up feeling overwhelmed, unhappy, stuck, and unsure how to move forward? I want you to know, I hear you and there is hope. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Relationship difficulties, ADHD, Codependency, Adoption and Narcissistic Abuse. I welcome you as you are, providing compassion for healing and self-acceptance. You are the expert of you! Together we will get to know the parts of you that need to be heard! Empowering you to find the courage to step into your confident and authentic self!
Are experiences from your past affecting your self-esteem and relationships? Do you wake up feeling overwhelmed, unhappy, stuck, and unsure how to move forward? I want you to know, I hear you and there is hope. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Relationship difficulties, ADHD, Codependency, Adoption and Narcissistic Abuse. I welcome you as you are, providing compassion for healing and self-acceptance. You are the expert of you! Together we will get to know the parts of you that need to be heard! Empowering you to find the courage to step into your confident and authentic self!
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Photo of Kelly Breen Boyce, PsyD, Psychologist
Kelly Breen Boyce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
She also conducts psychological assessments for ADHD, immigration issues, adoption, etc.
A candidate at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas in Chapel Hill, Dr. Boyce has a deep appreciation of the complexities of the mind as well as the impact of early experiences and relationships. Psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theories offer a comprehensive understanding of human nature. As opposed to other models that aim to solve a particular problem or target symptoms, psychoanalysis gets to the heart of the matter. Dr. Boyce provides therapy that addresses the whole person, helping the individual to develop inner capacities that can improve relationships as well as foster a richer, more meaningful life.
She also conducts psychological assessments for ADHD, immigration issues, adoption, etc.
A candidate at the Psychoanalytic Center of the Carolinas in Chapel Hill, Dr. Boyce has a deep appreciation of the complexities of the mind as well as the impact of early experiences and relationships. Psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theories offer a comprehensive understanding of human nature. As opposed to other models that aim to solve a particular problem or target symptoms, psychoanalysis gets to the heart of the matter. Dr. Boyce provides therapy that addresses the whole person, helping the individual to develop inner capacities that can improve relationships as well as foster a richer, more meaningful life.
(704) 612-2373 View (704) 612-2373
Photo of Jenny N. Poston, PhD, Psychologist
Jenny N. Poston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Areas of expertise include psychological fitness evaluations (for bariatric surgery, adoption, spinal cord stimulator implants, fitness for duty, etc.
As a psychologist with over 20 years' experience, I work with people who are struggling with diverse challenges, from temporarily overwhelming stressors to life-altering losses or burdens. Complicated or unsatisfactory relationships, difficult life transitions, health concerns, and significant losses are common problems that, if left unresolved, can lead to depression, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy, helplessness, or hopelessness. My goal is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore your concerns. I offer insight, support, and guidance, while helping you develop strategies to navigate life's challenges and cope effectively with the difficulties you are facing.
Areas of expertise include psychological fitness evaluations (for bariatric surgery, adoption, spinal cord stimulator implants, fitness for duty, etc.
As a psychologist with over 20 years' experience, I work with people who are struggling with diverse challenges, from temporarily overwhelming stressors to life-altering losses or burdens. Complicated or unsatisfactory relationships, difficult life transitions, health concerns, and significant losses are common problems that, if left unresolved, can lead to depression, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy, helplessness, or hopelessness. My goal is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental environment to explore your concerns. I offer insight, support, and guidance, while helping you develop strategies to navigate life's challenges and cope effectively with the difficulties you are facing.
(704) 288-0495 View (704) 288-0495
Photo of Kiley Thiel, MA, LCMHCS, CCTP
Kiley Thiel
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LCMHCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I have been a counselor working with children, teens and young adults for over 19 years. I enjoy providing a safe space for my clients to process the difficulties they may be having in a confidential setting. I have a strong focus on the therapeutic relationship and believe that every person is different and their counseling should reflect their needs. I have completed specialized training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and also the Training for Adoption Competency.
I have been a counselor working with children, teens and young adults for over 19 years. I enjoy providing a safe space for my clients to process the difficulties they may be having in a confidential setting. I have a strong focus on the therapeutic relationship and believe that every person is different and their counseling should reflect their needs. I have completed specialized training as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and also the Training for Adoption Competency.
(980) 246-3499 View (980) 246-3499
Photo of Jeffery D Rosenbaum, PhD, Psychologist
Jeffery D Rosenbaum
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28287
school, new siblings, following rules, divorce, adoption), and they learn to express themselves positively.
Children, adolescents, and families are the focus of my practice. Developing and strengthening the parent-child relationship is especially important with young children. Helping children learn to feel more capable and independent is important for school age children. Developing autonomy and learning to make good choices is critical for adolescents. By creating achievable goals together and working in a safe and supportive environment, we are able to create positive experiences for both children and parents.
school, new siblings, following rules, divorce, adoption), and they learn to express themselves positively.
Children, adolescents, and families are the focus of my practice. Developing and strengthening the parent-child relationship is especially important with young children. Helping children learn to feel more capable and independent is important for school age children. Developing autonomy and learning to make good choices is critical for adolescents. By creating achievable goals together and working in a safe and supportive environment, we are able to create positive experiences for both children and parents.
(704) 286-9594 View (704) 286-9594
Photo of Tasha Ganthier - Inner Peace Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Peace Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
She has extensive experience working with complex issues such as: anxiety, stress, depression, attachment, couples/marital challenges, trauma, parenting, adoption, end of life counseling, medically fragile concerns, spirituality, mediation, coping, mindfulness and interpersonal concerns.
"Happiness comes from accepting that we cannot control everything that occurs, but we have power to create balance, beauty and peace in every area of our lives." Tasha Ganthier is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master's degree from New York University. Her experience in therapy began in 1999. She has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, parents and those struggling with life's transitions. Tasha has a passion for people and utilizes a very organic, holistic and evidence-based approach.
She has extensive experience working with complex issues such as: anxiety, stress, depression, attachment, couples/marital challenges, trauma, parenting, adoption, end of life counseling, medically fragile concerns, spirituality, mediation, coping, mindfulness and interpersonal concerns.
"Happiness comes from accepting that we cannot control everything that occurs, but we have power to create balance, beauty and peace in every area of our lives." Tasha Ganthier is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a master's degree from New York University. Her experience in therapy began in 1999. She has extensive experience working with individuals, couples, parents and those struggling with life's transitions. Tasha has a passion for people and utilizes a very organic, holistic and evidence-based approach.
(704) 727-4989 View (704) 727-4989
Photo of Courtney Barnett - Blooming Fields Christian Counseling, MEd, LCMHC, NCCMHC, NCC
Blooming Fields Christian Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273
No matter what life brings, YOU are worthy, YOU matter, and YOU can find healing as I commit to offer support, unconditional compassion, and a relentless desire to meet you where you are in life. I consider it an honor to work with children, tweens/teens, families, and adults seeking help and comfort during challenging situations. I aim to equip and encourage parents who are seeking tools and resources to regain confidence in parenting, healthy communication, and secure attachment with their children. Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
No matter what life brings, YOU are worthy, YOU matter, and YOU can find healing as I commit to offer support, unconditional compassion, and a relentless desire to meet you where you are in life. I consider it an honor to work with children, tweens/teens, families, and adults seeking help and comfort during challenging situations. I aim to equip and encourage parents who are seeking tools and resources to regain confidence in parenting, healthy communication, and secure attachment with their children. Divorce, adoption, anxiety, depression, trauma, life adjustments and emotion regulation are a few of the issues that I typically see.
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Photo of Karen M Jackson, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen M Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28278  (Online Only)
With over 20 years as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and a decade as a Mental Health Counselor, I bring deep expertise to my practice. My background in Foster Care, Adoption, Child Protective Services, and Juvenile Justice allows me to understand diverse challenges. I’m passionate about helping teens, adults, and the LGBTQ community overcome struggles like anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. Through CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy, I empower clients to realize their potential in a supportive, affirming environment.
With over 20 years as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor and a decade as a Mental Health Counselor, I bring deep expertise to my practice. My background in Foster Care, Adoption, Child Protective Services, and Juvenile Justice allows me to understand diverse challenges. I’m passionate about helping teens, adults, and the LGBTQ community overcome struggles like anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. Through CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy, I empower clients to realize their potential in a supportive, affirming environment.
(980) 550-5170 View (980) 550-5170
Photo of Debra P Hinson, MA, LCMHC
Debra P Hinson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Additionally,, I am TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) certified and EMDR trained working of towards EMDR certification.
Life is a journey that can often become difficult to maneuver. However, facing life's struggles can empower us to be the people we are intended to be. This process is often mentally and physically exhausting. I would be honored to walk alongside you, your child, and/or your family on your personal journey of self-discovery. I love children and specialize in non-directive play therapy with children 3-7 years of age. Additionally, I work with adolescents and teens navigating the often difficult times of transition through middle/high school. Finally, I have a heart to work with women in life transitions.
Additionally,, I am TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) certified and EMDR trained working of towards EMDR certification.
Life is a journey that can often become difficult to maneuver. However, facing life's struggles can empower us to be the people we are intended to be. This process is often mentally and physically exhausting. I would be honored to walk alongside you, your child, and/or your family on your personal journey of self-discovery. I love children and specialize in non-directive play therapy with children 3-7 years of age. Additionally, I work with adolescents and teens navigating the often difficult times of transition through middle/high school. Finally, I have a heart to work with women in life transitions.
(704) 441-3307 View (704) 441-3307
Photo of McKayla Demulling, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
McKayla Demulling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
I have had the privilege and experience of working with individuals, couples, families, Service Members, the LGBTQ+ community, battered mothers, and those affiliated with the adoption and foster community ranging from foster and adopted parents and children as well as birth parents.
Counseling should be a safe and judgment-free place for individuals to voice their concerns. In a world where we are constantly judged, I feel that counseling provides a unique place to allow for personal understanding and growth while reflecting on what drives our concerns, emotions, and behaviors. The counseling journey should be a joint partnership to help the client realize their own potential for growth. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions that are centered around each individual.
I have had the privilege and experience of working with individuals, couples, families, Service Members, the LGBTQ+ community, battered mothers, and those affiliated with the adoption and foster community ranging from foster and adopted parents and children as well as birth parents.
Counseling should be a safe and judgment-free place for individuals to voice their concerns. In a world where we are constantly judged, I feel that counseling provides a unique place to allow for personal understanding and growth while reflecting on what drives our concerns, emotions, and behaviors. The counseling journey should be a joint partnership to help the client realize their own potential for growth. I use a variety of therapeutic interventions that are centered around each individual.
(704) 610-4793 View (704) 610-4793
Photo of Anita Badillo, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Badillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
My goal is to help you achieve whatever success looks like for you. Often, reaching our goals can seem daunting and even anxiety-provoking. Let’s tackle this together! I have worked in community mental health, outpatient, inpatient, volunteer, and primary care settings. I have experience helping clients who have had various concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, trauma, life change adjustments, adoption, substance use, and aging family members. HOURS: M-F 10am - 4pm. Weekend hours available on 1st and 3rd weekends of the each month.
My goal is to help you achieve whatever success looks like for you. Often, reaching our goals can seem daunting and even anxiety-provoking. Let’s tackle this together! I have worked in community mental health, outpatient, inpatient, volunteer, and primary care settings. I have experience helping clients who have had various concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationship issues, trauma, life change adjustments, adoption, substance use, and aging family members. HOURS: M-F 10am - 4pm. Weekend hours available on 1st and 3rd weekends of the each month.
(980) 261-3921 View (980) 261-3921
Photo of Stacy L Dixon, MA, LMFT, QMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacy L Dixon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, QMHP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28206
I treat depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, abuse, AD/HD, divorce adjustment, grief, adoption, PTSD, parenting and behavioral issues.
Transitions can be difficult. The decision to change is both challenging and rewarding. I provide an atmosphere of confidentiality, warmth and respect where you can ask questions and explore solutions. I will listen and provide tools to help you. We can address difficulties in your work, home and social settings. Therapy offers you a supportive place where you can process your experiences, gain perspective and make decisions that help you move forward.
I treat depression, anxiety, anger, infidelity, abuse, AD/HD, divorce adjustment, grief, adoption, PTSD, parenting and behavioral issues.
Transitions can be difficult. The decision to change is both challenging and rewarding. I provide an atmosphere of confidentiality, warmth and respect where you can ask questions and explore solutions. I will listen and provide tools to help you. We can address difficulties in your work, home and social settings. Therapy offers you a supportive place where you can process your experiences, gain perspective and make decisions that help you move forward.
(605) 250-3947 View (605) 250-3947
Photo of Melody Joy Carr, MEd, LCMHC
Melody Joy Carr
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
My journey in the profession began 20 years ago as a Psychology major working in campus ministry, followed by employment in community mental health and adoption agencies.
I aim to create a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship while my clients work toward wholeness where they feel wounded. Symptoms of anxiety or depression often usher us into difficult life change that can eventually lead toward improved emotional health. I work from an eclectic theoretical orientation using attachment theory, Internal Family Systems, Narrative-Focused Trauma Care, and faith if clients desire. I utilize Strengths-Based theory with teens, which is an evidence-based approach to suicide prevention. I specialize in teens and work well with high-performing women who struggle with anxiety.
My journey in the profession began 20 years ago as a Psychology major working in campus ministry, followed by employment in community mental health and adoption agencies.
I aim to create a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship while my clients work toward wholeness where they feel wounded. Symptoms of anxiety or depression often usher us into difficult life change that can eventually lead toward improved emotional health. I work from an eclectic theoretical orientation using attachment theory, Internal Family Systems, Narrative-Focused Trauma Care, and faith if clients desire. I utilize Strengths-Based theory with teens, which is an evidence-based approach to suicide prevention. I specialize in teens and work well with high-performing women who struggle with anxiety.
(980) 246-3204 View (980) 246-3204
Photo of Casey Jones, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casey Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
Family can be a source of joy and strength but can also be chaotic and overwhelming at times. I know that life transitions and big events can be challenging for individuals and that sometimes having an outside resource to talk to can be helpful. If you are struggling to start a family, dealing with pregnancy/postpartum related mental health concerns, pursuing kinship care/foster care/ adoption, or working to overcome a traumatic experience, I would love to connect and see if I can assist you in reaching your goals.
Family can be a source of joy and strength but can also be chaotic and overwhelming at times. I know that life transitions and big events can be challenging for individuals and that sometimes having an outside resource to talk to can be helpful. If you are struggling to start a family, dealing with pregnancy/postpartum related mental health concerns, pursuing kinship care/foster care/ adoption, or working to overcome a traumatic experience, I would love to connect and see if I can assist you in reaching your goals.
(980) 330-4022 View (980) 330-4022
Photo of Liza Frank Caraglio, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liza Frank Caraglio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
I hold a Post-Master's Certification in clinical issues in adoption.
I strive to assist my clients in reaching their full potential by helping them to develop positive self esteem and strong coping skills, and to have healthy relationships, personally and professionally. Whether you are struggling with life's everyday challenges, or more serious trauma, we can work together to provide you with the tools you need to be happy and healthy. I provide a comfortable, judgment free environment. Please contact me to discuss your therapeutic needs and together we can develop a plan for how you can reach your goals!
I hold a Post-Master's Certification in clinical issues in adoption.
I strive to assist my clients in reaching their full potential by helping them to develop positive self esteem and strong coping skills, and to have healthy relationships, personally and professionally. Whether you are struggling with life's everyday challenges, or more serious trauma, we can work together to provide you with the tools you need to be happy and healthy. I provide a comfortable, judgment free environment. Please contact me to discuss your therapeutic needs and together we can develop a plan for how you can reach your goals!
(919) 891-8877 View (919) 891-8877
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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.