Adoption Therapists in Randolph, NJ

Photo of Danielle Slavin, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Slavin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
She specializes in perinatal mood and anxiety as a Perinatal Mental Health Clinician (PMH-C) and has extensive training in family planning including fertility challenges, IUI/IVF, surrogacy, donor conception, and adoption.
Danielle deeply values the privilege of being entrusted with the role of supporting someone as they navigate through their healing journey. She honors the specific needs of each individual and aims to foster an authentic relationship built on trust and collaboration. Danielle’s goal is to provide a supportive foundation that offers strength and courage to clients as they pursue their goals in relationships, family, and life. She has over a decade experience with evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
She specializes in perinatal mood and anxiety as a Perinatal Mental Health Clinician (PMH-C) and has extensive training in family planning including fertility challenges, IUI/IVF, surrogacy, donor conception, and adoption.
Danielle deeply values the privilege of being entrusted with the role of supporting someone as they navigate through their healing journey. She honors the specific needs of each individual and aims to foster an authentic relationship built on trust and collaboration. Danielle’s goal is to provide a supportive foundation that offers strength and courage to clients as they pursue their goals in relationships, family, and life. She has over a decade experience with evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
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Photo of Caitlin Northern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Northern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
Caitlin is a seasoned therapist with over a decade of experience who is dedicated to help guide you on your journey to healing and personal growth. She specializes in helping children, adults, and families to not only address issues like anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, behavioral problems (child/teen), and autism, but to find their overall path towards happiness and well-being. Her expertise further extends to complex trauma and loss with a deep understanding of attachment-related issues. Her understanding of Child and Family Studies makes her exceptionally well-prepared to address issues at the individual and environmental levels.
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Photo of Susan Gail Herschman, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan Gail Herschman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Randolph, NJ 07869
Stress, anxiety, depression and relationship challenges are some of my specialty areas. For adolescents, the transition from high school to college can be stressful. Most people struggle with a variety of psychological issues/conflicts at some point in their lives - it's human nature. I have the life experiences and professional training to help. I have an objective, honest and straight forward approach. I'm easy to talk to, approachable, and self-disclose when necessary. I will be active and collaborative in our work together. I provide consultation, individual/couple/family psychotherapy from children to adults.
Stress, anxiety, depression and relationship challenges are some of my specialty areas. For adolescents, the transition from high school to college can be stressful. Most people struggle with a variety of psychological issues/conflicts at some point in their lives - it's human nature. I have the life experiences and professional training to help. I have an objective, honest and straight forward approach. I'm easy to talk to, approachable, and self-disclose when necessary. I will be active and collaborative in our work together. I provide consultation, individual/couple/family psychotherapy from children to adults.
(973) 510-2491 x2 View (973) 510-2491 x2
Photo of Luz C. Ventura-Polanco, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Luz C. Ventura-Polanco
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Randolph, NJ 07869
Greetings! I am one of the clinical psychotherapists at Prasada Center for Wellbeing. I have experience facilitating individual, couple, family, and group psychotherapy for a diverse population of clients ranging in demographics and needs, both in English and Spanish, as well as in-person sessions and through telehealth. I have worked in various settings, including schools, daycares, inpatient/outpatient facilities, and in-home/community settings. My beliefs towards psychotherapy are similar to those embedded within existential theory: to encourage clients to reflect on life and recognize their array of alternatives.
Greetings! I am one of the clinical psychotherapists at Prasada Center for Wellbeing. I have experience facilitating individual, couple, family, and group psychotherapy for a diverse population of clients ranging in demographics and needs, both in English and Spanish, as well as in-person sessions and through telehealth. I have worked in various settings, including schools, daycares, inpatient/outpatient facilities, and in-home/community settings. My beliefs towards psychotherapy are similar to those embedded within existential theory: to encourage clients to reflect on life and recognize their array of alternatives.
(862) 858-2751 x808 View (862) 858-2751 x808
Photo of Karen C Kaspern, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen C Kaspern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Randolph, NJ 07869
Welcome to Prasada Center for Wellbeing – I’m so glad you’re here! After a decade of working as a professional counselor, I know one thing stands true – humans are wired to connect with one another. We come into this world not only seeking but needing connection. I understand the importance of how each child and each person is an individual and that our sometimes-subtle differences can play a huge role in who we are, the way in which we perceive the world, how we face challenges, and how we heal. I know that there is no separation between brain and body, body and brain. We are a whole being comprised of several parts.
Welcome to Prasada Center for Wellbeing – I’m so glad you’re here! After a decade of working as a professional counselor, I know one thing stands true – humans are wired to connect with one another. We come into this world not only seeking but needing connection. I understand the importance of how each child and each person is an individual and that our sometimes-subtle differences can play a huge role in who we are, the way in which we perceive the world, how we face challenges, and how we heal. I know that there is no separation between brain and body, body and brain. We are a whole being comprised of several parts.
(862) 356-6354 x804 View (862) 356-6354 x804
Photo of Krista Zuccheri, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krista Zuccheri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Randolph, NJ 07869
It’s not easy to look for and seek out help, and in this moment you are a step closer to feeling better. My goal is to help create a safe space to identify, process, manage, and overcome roadblocks to being healthy and happy. You have incredible strength and are deserving of good things. I am a licensed professional counselor for 16 years, and have 20 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My approach is supportive, holistic, and solution-focused, working in partnership with you to reach your goals.
It’s not easy to look for and seek out help, and in this moment you are a step closer to feeling better. My goal is to help create a safe space to identify, process, manage, and overcome roadblocks to being healthy and happy. You have incredible strength and are deserving of good things. I am a licensed professional counselor for 16 years, and have 20 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My approach is supportive, holistic, and solution-focused, working in partnership with you to reach your goals.
(862) 465-8410 View (862) 465-8410
Photo of Yvonne Hansen, PhD, Psychologist
Yvonne Hansen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Randolph, NJ 07869
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed psychologist. I treat all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders including Asperger's Disorder, divorce, bereavement, and relationships, School Phobia, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma. I use individual, family, and group therapies.
I am co-founder and partner at West Morris Psychological Associates and a NJ licensed psychologist. I treat all ages for a variety of mental health concerns, including: Adjustment Difficulties, Anxiety Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Child/Teen Behavioral Problems, Life Transitions, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Parent-child conflict, Panic Disorder, Parenting Strategies, Pervasive Development Disorders including Asperger's Disorder, divorce, bereavement, and relationships, School Phobia, Separation Anxiety, Social Skills, and Trauma. I use individual, family, and group therapies.
(908) 280-0439 View (908) 280-0439
Photo of Todd Bennett, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Todd Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
I, along with everyone at Center for Assessment and Treatment, hope to help those who are among the most in need, regardless of income, background, or past history.
I, along with everyone at Center for Assessment and Treatment, hope to help those who are among the most in need, regardless of income, background, or past history.
(908) 428-9096 View (908) 428-9096
Photo of Ruth Mumford, MSW, LCSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Mumford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Randolph, NJ 07869
Finding the key towards leading a successful and fulfilling life is my commitment. With over 25 years of clinical experience, I am here to provide the tools and guidance necessary to help focus your life. My name is Ruth Mumford. I am a Master Level Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Diplomate of Clinical Social Work (DCSW) with extensive training and expertise in psychotherapy. I am pleased to offer personalized, confidential treatment for adults, adolescents, couples and families. My office is warm, comfortable and private with easy access and free, plentiful parking.
Finding the key towards leading a successful and fulfilling life is my commitment. With over 25 years of clinical experience, I am here to provide the tools and guidance necessary to help focus your life. My name is Ruth Mumford. I am a Master Level Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Diplomate of Clinical Social Work (DCSW) with extensive training and expertise in psychotherapy. I am pleased to offer personalized, confidential treatment for adults, adolescents, couples and families. My office is warm, comfortable and private with easy access and free, plentiful parking.
(973) 210-7655 View (973) 210-7655
Photo of Janine Heinis - Practical Therapy Network, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Practical Therapy Network, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
For therapy inquiries, please email us directly, email located on website www.practherapy.com. Practical Therapy Network's clinical program is Strengths Based and Person Centered, intended to meet our clients where they are. It is our privilege to provide everyone with the integrity and support they deserve. We are practicing in person and virtually.
For therapy inquiries, please email us directly, email located on website www.practherapy.com. Practical Therapy Network's clinical program is Strengths Based and Person Centered, intended to meet our clients where they are. It is our privilege to provide everyone with the integrity and support they deserve. We are practicing in person and virtually.
(973) 453-0807 View (973) 453-0807
Photo of Nicole Bolognini, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Bolognini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Randolph, NJ 07869
Are your childhood memories confusing because you know you were cared for but never felt important? Perhaps you had emotionally immature parents or distant parents who met your basic needs but neglected your emotional needs. Do you often feel lonely, disconnected, and searching for love you didn't receive? Do you wonder why you often feel "not good enough," unlovable or unworthy? Perhaps you have found loving relationships but you still feel unfulfilled, untrusting or alone in life. You may even recall the early life events that triggered your mistrust of loving relationships, but you can't resolve these feelings.
Are your childhood memories confusing because you know you were cared for but never felt important? Perhaps you had emotionally immature parents or distant parents who met your basic needs but neglected your emotional needs. Do you often feel lonely, disconnected, and searching for love you didn't receive? Do you wonder why you often feel "not good enough," unlovable or unworthy? Perhaps you have found loving relationships but you still feel unfulfilled, untrusting or alone in life. You may even recall the early life events that triggered your mistrust of loving relationships, but you can't resolve these feelings.
(973) 221-8813 View (973) 221-8813
Photo of Chloe G Bland, PhD, Psychologist
Chloe G Bland
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
Not accepting new clients
My private practice, Goodale Wellness, LLC, is located in Denville, NJ. I see clients both in-person and virtually. In my practice, I support children, adolescents, and their families, with a specialty of helping families heal during and after trauma, loss, and grief. During this time in our country, most people have been touched by trauma, loss, and grief of some kind or another. Since the global pandemic, many children struggled and are now facing challenges in their homes, schools, and social lives. At Goodale Wellness, LLC, we have experience with this and can help your child and your family heal and grow.
My private practice, Goodale Wellness, LLC, is located in Denville, NJ. I see clients both in-person and virtually. In my practice, I support children, adolescents, and their families, with a specialty of helping families heal during and after trauma, loss, and grief. During this time in our country, most people have been touched by trauma, loss, and grief of some kind or another. Since the global pandemic, many children struggled and are now facing challenges in their homes, schools, and social lives. At Goodale Wellness, LLC, we have experience with this and can help your child and your family heal and grow.
(973) 281-4529 View (973) 281-4529

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Beverly Dean, LPC, NCC, CCTP, ACS, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beverly Dean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, ACS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ledgewood, NJ 07852
I have completed certification programs in Adoption Studies & Sand Play! I am trained in SPACE, CBT, ICBT, Clinical Hypnosis and EX/RP.
Welcome to the first step on your journey to peace and wellness! I work with children, adolescents and adults to increase their ability to dream big and move forward! I am a fully Licensed therapist with over 30 years of experience. In addition I hold credentials as a Certified Clinical Supervisor, A Certified EMDR therapist / EMDRIA approved consultant , A Certified Clinical Trauma Professional & A Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I draw from psychotherapy modalities in both verbal and creative realms. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma and Perinatal Mental Health.
I have completed certification programs in Adoption Studies & Sand Play! I am trained in SPACE, CBT, ICBT, Clinical Hypnosis and EX/RP.
Welcome to the first step on your journey to peace and wellness! I work with children, adolescents and adults to increase their ability to dream big and move forward! I am a fully Licensed therapist with over 30 years of experience. In addition I hold credentials as a Certified Clinical Supervisor, A Certified EMDR therapist / EMDRIA approved consultant , A Certified Clinical Trauma Professional & A Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. I draw from psychotherapy modalities in both verbal and creative realms. I specialize in treating OCD, anxiety, trauma and Perinatal Mental Health.
(862) 505-2444 View (862) 505-2444
Photo of Leslie Zindulka, LCSW-R, LSW, SSWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Zindulka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LSW, SSWS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chester, NJ 07930  (Online Only)
I specialize in infertility grief, pre- adoption consultations, adoption home studies, post placement supervision, adoptee issues for all ages and expectant mother counseling.
If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you! Are you an ADULT experiencing stress/anxiety? Are you feeling frustrated/concerned about your TEEN or "EMERGING" ADULT CHILD living at home? Has the school called about social/behavioral issues? Are you struggling with attitude isolating behaviors, nothing seems to be working? You're not alone. It's a relief to share fears/feelings with a professional trained to listen. I provide therapy to help you learn the impact of your feelings and behaviors, develop coping strategies in a warm supportive environment. Ability to easily establish a rapport with adolescents and adults.
I specialize in infertility grief, pre- adoption consultations, adoption home studies, post placement supervision, adoptee issues for all ages and expectant mother counseling.
If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you! Are you an ADULT experiencing stress/anxiety? Are you feeling frustrated/concerned about your TEEN or "EMERGING" ADULT CHILD living at home? Has the school called about social/behavioral issues? Are you struggling with attitude isolating behaviors, nothing seems to be working? You're not alone. It's a relief to share fears/feelings with a professional trained to listen. I provide therapy to help you learn the impact of your feelings and behaviors, develop coping strategies in a warm supportive environment. Ability to easily establish a rapport with adolescents and adults.
(732) 603-1550 View (732) 603-1550
Photo of Dahiana P Grisales - My New Days Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
My New Days Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, NJ 07801
At My New Days Counseling, Dahiana aims to collaborate with you on creating balance in your mental health journey. If you seek to start new days, reach self-actualization, self-discovery or explore alternative ways of thriving in your environment, Dahiana is an appropriate match! At My New Days, planning for balanced self-care practices is a main goal along with increasing your emotional intelligence to incorporate your support systems, connections, experiences, and responses. If you face experiences with adoption, life transitions, trauma, stress, emotional or behavioral challenges, Dahiana can help start your New Days!
At My New Days Counseling, Dahiana aims to collaborate with you on creating balance in your mental health journey. If you seek to start new days, reach self-actualization, self-discovery or explore alternative ways of thriving in your environment, Dahiana is an appropriate match! At My New Days, planning for balanced self-care practices is a main goal along with increasing your emotional intelligence to incorporate your support systems, connections, experiences, and responses. If you face experiences with adoption, life transitions, trauma, stress, emotional or behavioral challenges, Dahiana can help start your New Days!
(973) 314-8323 View (973) 314-8323
Photo of Michelle Bauer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Bauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Parsippany, NJ 07054
Areas of expertise include treatment of anxiety, depression, substance use/abuse and adoption issues.
Self knowledge can lead to change. My approach to therapy is to explore areas of difficulty in your life and to discover the underlying causes. I create a trusting, supportive and collaborative environment which fosters personal growth and facillitates change.
Areas of expertise include treatment of anxiety, depression, substance use/abuse and adoption issues.
Self knowledge can lead to change. My approach to therapy is to explore areas of difficulty in your life and to discover the underlying causes. I create a trusting, supportive and collaborative environment which fosters personal growth and facillitates change.
(973) 309-7072 View (973) 309-7072
Photo of Melissa D. South, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa D. South
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
Melissa South is a compassionate, affirming, and caring counselor dedicated to helping children, teens, couples & families grow and thrive. Melissa specializes in treating a wide range of issues affecting youth and families including: coping skills for stress & anxiety, school challenges, bullying, behavioral issues, mood regulation, trauma--including youth sexual trauma, adoption & foster care, parenting, and more. Additionally, she is an experienced, competent, & inspiring Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) for LACs seeking outside clinical supervision to develop their professional identity & grow clinical skills.
Melissa South is a compassionate, affirming, and caring counselor dedicated to helping children, teens, couples & families grow and thrive. Melissa specializes in treating a wide range of issues affecting youth and families including: coping skills for stress & anxiety, school challenges, bullying, behavioral issues, mood regulation, trauma--including youth sexual trauma, adoption & foster care, parenting, and more. Additionally, she is an experienced, competent, & inspiring Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS) for LACs seeking outside clinical supervision to develop their professional identity & grow clinical skills.
(201) 389-9308 View (201) 389-9308
Photo of Suzanne M Donohue, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne M Donohue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
I have 20+ years of experience working with children and families including outpatient and inpatient counseling, adoption as well as working in the school system.
Is your CHILD/TEEN struggling? Are you struggling w/PARENTING CHALLENGES? I support ADHD, Anxiety, ASD, Mood Disorders, and other Challenging Behaviors that impact family, school, and relationships. I support Executive Functioning deficits (elementary to college age). I provide parents with psychoeducation, parent training ~ and often collaborate with the school system. I utilize many therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) & aspects of DBT as well as Attachment -Focused Therapy.
I have 20+ years of experience working with children and families including outpatient and inpatient counseling, adoption as well as working in the school system.
Is your CHILD/TEEN struggling? Are you struggling w/PARENTING CHALLENGES? I support ADHD, Anxiety, ASD, Mood Disorders, and other Challenging Behaviors that impact family, school, and relationships. I support Executive Functioning deficits (elementary to college age). I provide parents with psychoeducation, parent training ~ and often collaborate with the school system. I utilize many therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) & aspects of DBT as well as Attachment -Focused Therapy.
(973) 878-0933 View (973) 878-0933
Photo of Allison Zeis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Zeis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I am also trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I have completed a 12-course Adoption Certificate Program.
"When there are no enemies within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you". ~ancient African proverb~ So many suffer everyday in silence because of their own negative inner voice. Whether you are struggling due to anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, loss, or for any other reason, know that you do not have to suffer forever and that change is possible. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families helping each to bring their strengths into focus and harmony back into their family lives.
I am also trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I have completed a 12-course Adoption Certificate Program.
"When there are no enemies within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you". ~ancient African proverb~ So many suffer everyday in silence because of their own negative inner voice. Whether you are struggling due to anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, loss, or for any other reason, know that you do not have to suffer forever and that change is possible. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families helping each to bring their strengths into focus and harmony back into their family lives.
(973) 755-2383 View (973) 755-2383
Photo of Catherine Bianchi - Catherine Bianchi, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Catherine Bianchi, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
Additionally, if your teen or young adult suffers from anxiety and depression; or if your child or family is planning to adopt or managing post- adoption adjustment or attachment disorder, I have the specialized training to help with these concerns.
If you would like to resolve longstanding feelings of depression and anxiety, feelings of loss, the symptoms of trauma, or a tendency to repeat the same problems in relationships, you may have found that time-limited, symptom-focused therapy hasn't relieved your suffering. Perhaps it has even discouraged you from thinking you can find a lasting solution to your problems. You may feel hopeless about being able to stop what seems like a repeating series of crises, feeling resigned to suffer or cope with difficulty.
Additionally, if your teen or young adult suffers from anxiety and depression; or if your child or family is planning to adopt or managing post- adoption adjustment or attachment disorder, I have the specialized training to help with these concerns.
If you would like to resolve longstanding feelings of depression and anxiety, feelings of loss, the symptoms of trauma, or a tendency to repeat the same problems in relationships, you may have found that time-limited, symptom-focused therapy hasn't relieved your suffering. Perhaps it has even discouraged you from thinking you can find a lasting solution to your problems. You may feel hopeless about being able to stop what seems like a repeating series of crises, feeling resigned to suffer or cope with difficulty.
(973) 292-1223 View (973) 292-1223

See more therapy options for Randolph

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.