Adoption Therapists in Mars, PA

Photo of Elaine A Malec - Malec and Associates, Inc, PhD, Psychologist
Malec and Associates, Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mars, PA 16046
We are accepting new patients. Are you seeking a haven of peace and growth for your mind? Look no further than Malec and Associates. We understand that your mental well-being is of utmost importance, and our dedicated team of experienced providers is here to support you on your journey. At Malec and Associates, we believe in the power of personalized care. Our compassionate providers take the time to truly understand your unique challenges, creating a safe and trusting environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.
We are accepting new patients. Are you seeking a haven of peace and growth for your mind? Look no further than Malec and Associates. We understand that your mental well-being is of utmost importance, and our dedicated team of experienced providers is here to support you on your journey. At Malec and Associates, we believe in the power of personalized care. Our compassionate providers take the time to truly understand your unique challenges, creating a safe and trusting environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment.
(724) 952-3396 x104 View (724) 952-3396 x104
Photo of Melissa Ray, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mars, PA 16046
Whether this is your first step in your journey of healing for yourself or your child, or you have been doing this for a while, looking for a new therapist can feel like a big step! My name is Melissa Ray, LCSW. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I love helping others using a gentle and non-judgemental approach. I am clinically trained to treat trauma in children. I also treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including TF-CBT (trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy). With parental participation, I enjoy working with kids as young as 2. I work with kids and adults of any age.
Whether this is your first step in your journey of healing for yourself or your child, or you have been doing this for a while, looking for a new therapist can feel like a big step! My name is Melissa Ray, LCSW. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I love helping others using a gentle and non-judgemental approach. I am clinically trained to treat trauma in children. I also treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including TF-CBT (trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy). With parental participation, I enjoy working with kids as young as 2. I work with kids and adults of any age.
(724) 517-7928 View (724) 517-7928
Photo of Steven Pasquinelli - Psychological Associates, Inc., Psychologist
Psychological Associates, Inc.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Mars, PA 16046
Among the many reasons why people seek counseling, one reason stands out as a factor....LIFETIME CHANGES. Change is a constant in our lives that many strongly resist, and have difficulty coping. Lifetime changes do not need to cause distress. Individuals can become stronger. There are tools to creating new, healthier, effective styles of living. Each person coming into counseling has their own individual needs. As clinicians, we want to partner with our clients to identify their goals and help them on their journey to a healthier, more satisfying life.
Among the many reasons why people seek counseling, one reason stands out as a factor....LIFETIME CHANGES. Change is a constant in our lives that many strongly resist, and have difficulty coping. Lifetime changes do not need to cause distress. Individuals can become stronger. There are tools to creating new, healthier, effective styles of living. Each person coming into counseling has their own individual needs. As clinicians, we want to partner with our clients to identify their goals and help them on their journey to a healthier, more satisfying life.
(412) 453-2243 View (412) 453-2243
Photo of Monica Dunlap, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Dunlap
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Mars, PA 16046
Accepting NEW clients! Unfortunately many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. I love working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. A client once told me "You should be a therapist for people who do not like therapy". I try to understand people on an individual level & adapt my skills to meet their needs. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working through the root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
Accepting NEW clients! Unfortunately many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. I love working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. A client once told me "You should be a therapist for people who do not like therapy". I try to understand people on an individual level & adapt my skills to meet their needs. My goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working through the root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
(412) 424-6548 View (412) 424-6548
Photo of Melissa Geib, PhD, Psychologist
Melissa Geib
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mars, PA 16046
Not accepting new clients
Life can be difficult to navigate. Sometimes it helps to have a co-pilot who can help you see new paths. You have your own difficulties and past. You might know what you or your child needs help with: anxiety, depression, trouble in relationships, school or work, or feeling upset about events that have occurred in your life. Maybe you don't know why, but just feel like something's wrong. I create a safe environment to listen and talk with you as you learn about yourself, what's causing your symptoms, and how life can be more enjoyable.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Sometimes it helps to have a co-pilot who can help you see new paths. You have your own difficulties and past. You might know what you or your child needs help with: anxiety, depression, trouble in relationships, school or work, or feeling upset about events that have occurred in your life. Maybe you don't know why, but just feel like something's wrong. I create a safe environment to listen and talk with you as you learn about yourself, what's causing your symptoms, and how life can be more enjoyable.
(724) 705-6482 View (724) 705-6482

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karla Hinis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Hinis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Zelienople, PA 16063  (Online Only)
I have pre-clinical experience working in adoption, foster care and juvenile court programs.
I have 1 openings available as of June 1st. I am only conducting virtual sessions with clients in Pennsylvania. If you want a laid back, non judgemental environment, please join me. Are you struggling with 'adulting?' Are you scared, stuck or frustrated? I'm ready to work! My ideal client would be an adolescent or adult prepared for healing, changing and goal setting, but wants to laugh too. My clinical special interests include: Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. I especially enjoy working with people who received a diagnosis of neurodiversity later in life. (Please be aware I do not do couples therapy or work with grief or eating disorders).
I have pre-clinical experience working in adoption, foster care and juvenile court programs.
I have 1 openings available as of June 1st. I am only conducting virtual sessions with clients in Pennsylvania. If you want a laid back, non judgemental environment, please join me. Are you struggling with 'adulting?' Are you scared, stuck or frustrated? I'm ready to work! My ideal client would be an adolescent or adult prepared for healing, changing and goal setting, but wants to laugh too. My clinical special interests include: Anxiety, OCD, and ADHD. I especially enjoy working with people who received a diagnosis of neurodiversity later in life. (Please be aware I do not do couples therapy or work with grief or eating disorders).
(724) 308-5320 View (724) 308-5320
Photo of Margaret Maxwell, MEd, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Maxwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Zelienople, PA 16063
Welcome! My goal as a therapist is to create a warm and authentic relationship with my clients. Life can be overwhelming and challenging; my goal is to support you and help you navigate through this time. My hope is to help individuals implement useful tools and skills to help them manage their anxiety and stress. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental health field for over 12 years. Some of my experience includes working with anxiety, depression, foster care and adoption, motherhood, and ADHD. It is important to me that my clients feel comfortable with me and they look forward to our sessions.
Welcome! My goal as a therapist is to create a warm and authentic relationship with my clients. Life can be overwhelming and challenging; my goal is to support you and help you navigate through this time. My hope is to help individuals implement useful tools and skills to help them manage their anxiety and stress. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in the mental health field for over 12 years. Some of my experience includes working with anxiety, depression, foster care and adoption, motherhood, and ADHD. It is important to me that my clients feel comfortable with me and they look forward to our sessions.
(724) 856-0868 View (724) 856-0868
Photo of Lauren Burling, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Burling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
I also have expertise supporting individuals and families with family planning including adoption, IUI/IVF, intentional single parenting, and foster care.
People enter therapy with me for many types of reasons at different stages of their lives. Someone may be processing a recent life transition or anticipating changes in the future. Many people have had something specific happen recently that was stressful, sudden or difficult for them. Often, people find they are struggling to cope with their emotions after many cumulative and sequential events. Sometimes, a specific relationship needs to come into focus and be healed. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to identify problem areas they would like to spend time on with the goal of finding peace and ease in their lives.
I also have expertise supporting individuals and families with family planning including adoption, IUI/IVF, intentional single parenting, and foster care.
People enter therapy with me for many types of reasons at different stages of their lives. Someone may be processing a recent life transition or anticipating changes in the future. Many people have had something specific happen recently that was stressful, sudden or difficult for them. Often, people find they are struggling to cope with their emotions after many cumulative and sequential events. Sometimes, a specific relationship needs to come into focus and be healed. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to identify problem areas they would like to spend time on with the goal of finding peace and ease in their lives.
(724) 251-8972 View (724) 251-8972
Photo of Natasha Novikova, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natasha Novikova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or marital/family issues? I have a Masters in clinical social work from University of Pittsburgh and can guide you thru the rough transition to find more comfortable balance in your life. In my career I have worked in a variety of settings, such as crisis counseling, community mental health and adoption counseling. I have treated depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD etc in a many populations including LGBT and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. At this time I have a new private practice and am ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Call today to set up an appointment.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or marital/family issues? I have a Masters in clinical social work from University of Pittsburgh and can guide you thru the rough transition to find more comfortable balance in your life. In my career I have worked in a variety of settings, such as crisis counseling, community mental health and adoption counseling. I have treated depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD etc in a many populations including LGBT and people from multi-cultural backgrounds. At this time I have a new private practice and am ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Call today to set up an appointment.
(412) 453-4104 View (412) 453-4104
Photo of Rita Lampe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita Lampe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allison Park, PA 15101
Over the past 30 plus years of providing counseling to children/adolescents, adults, couples and families, I have offered a very safe environment for people to begin healing from relationship issues, past traumas, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, etc. I particularly work with individuals going through life transitions, healing from childhood trauma and/or abuse, divorce, adoption and addiction recovery. I utilize various therapeutic interventions, focusing on what is best for each individual. I have training in EMDR and have a trauma informed focus. I integrate mindfulness practices and somatic body work as well.
Over the past 30 plus years of providing counseling to children/adolescents, adults, couples and families, I have offered a very safe environment for people to begin healing from relationship issues, past traumas, grief and loss, anxiety and depression, etc. I particularly work with individuals going through life transitions, healing from childhood trauma and/or abuse, divorce, adoption and addiction recovery. I utilize various therapeutic interventions, focusing on what is best for each individual. I have training in EMDR and have a trauma informed focus. I integrate mindfulness practices and somatic body work as well.
(412) 455-6463 View (412) 455-6463
Photo of Erin Donnelly, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Erin Donnelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101  (Online Only)
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
My practice uniquely focuses on sexuality and reproduction: relationships/sex therapy, sexual dysfunctions, pelvic pain conditions, infertility and ARTs/third party parenting (& evaluations), adoption, reproductive traumas, peri/postpartum issues, transition to parenthood and gender identity.
Each of us is a complex product of our past and present environments and experiences. Generally, we act or cope in ways that are adaptive or necessary under given circumstances. When our default methods of coping are no longer effective or our circumstances change, we begin experiencing distress in specific realms of our lives. This distress might manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, pain, relationship or sexual difficulties, social isolation, declining performance and/or impairment in daily functioning. As there is an undeniable connection between our psychological and physical wellbeing, I approach treatment in an integrative, collaborative and personality-based manner.
(913) 370-7041 View (913) 370-7041
Photo of Tomilyn Ward, LPC, MPC, EMDR, PCIT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tomilyn Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPC, EMDR, PCIT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101
I specialize in EMDR. therapy. I also work with clients who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I have training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. I also have experience with working closely with clients who have experienced traumatic births as well as birth workers and medical providers who witness traumatic births. I have attended over 30 births as a birth doula and I understand the process of birth for parents and providers.
I specialize in EMDR. therapy. I also work with clients who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I have training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. I also have experience with working closely with clients who have experienced traumatic births as well as birth workers and medical providers who witness traumatic births. I have attended over 30 births as a birth doula and I understand the process of birth for parents and providers.
(412) 837-8121 x2 View (412) 837-8121 x2
Photo of Julia Gatti, PhD, Psychologist
Julia Gatti
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
I am a licensed psychologist and have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples for over 23 years. I have been in private practice since 1992, and have worked extensively in private, hospital and community mental health settings. My work focuses on helping people who are experiencing Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and physical (body) problems. My specialties include trauma(PTSD, dissociation), abuse (sexual, physical, domestic),anxiety disorders,and body issues (illness, pain, eating disorders, fibromyalgia). I believe all people can become happier and I work with clients to make families healthier places for everyone.
I am a licensed psychologist and have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples for over 23 years. I have been in private practice since 1992, and have worked extensively in private, hospital and community mental health settings. My work focuses on helping people who are experiencing Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and physical (body) problems. My specialties include trauma(PTSD, dissociation), abuse (sexual, physical, domestic),anxiety disorders,and body issues (illness, pain, eating disorders, fibromyalgia). I believe all people can become happier and I work with clients to make families healthier places for everyone.
(724) 498-4939 View (724) 498-4939
Photo of Emily Dries, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Dries
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
I believe that we as individuals are the true experts about our own lives, and that positive change is not only possible but is within reach, when we are provided with the support we need. As a therapist, my goal is to provide this support through offering a non-judgmental space for clients that will allow them to identify, reflect on, and challenge undesired thoughts and behaviors. I believe that therapy should be a collaboration aimed to help my clients arrive at practical solutions in order to create more positive outcomes and begin to move forward in a healthier way.
I believe that we as individuals are the true experts about our own lives, and that positive change is not only possible but is within reach, when we are provided with the support we need. As a therapist, my goal is to provide this support through offering a non-judgmental space for clients that will allow them to identify, reflect on, and challenge undesired thoughts and behaviors. I believe that therapy should be a collaboration aimed to help my clients arrive at practical solutions in order to create more positive outcomes and begin to move forward in a healthier way.
(724) 204-2354 View (724) 204-2354
Photo of Ken Evanoski, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ken Evanoski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Are you someone who is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, or physical pain? It may be time to reach out for some help. I specialize in working with adults, late teens, those over 65, & parents who are struggling with disruptive children. I'm here to help you get some relief & to get some control back in your life.
Are you someone who is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, or physical pain? It may be time to reach out for some help. I specialize in working with adults, late teens, those over 65, & parents who are struggling with disruptive children. I'm here to help you get some relief & to get some control back in your life.
(412) 207-3934 View (412) 207-3934
Photo of Monica Dunlap - Dunlap & Associates Counseling and Art Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dunlap & Associates Counseling and Art Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Accepting NEW clients! Many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. We are especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. Clients have described us as “Therapists for people who don’t like therapy”. We try to understand people on an individual level & adapt our skills to meet their needs. Our goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working to root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
Accepting NEW clients! Many people have had negative experiences with counseling, making them hesitant to seek help again. We are especially skilled at working with those who are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy. Clients have described us as “Therapists for people who don’t like therapy”. We try to understand people on an individual level & adapt our skills to meet their needs. Our goal is to provide a safe, comfortable, & nonjudgmental atmosphere. Therapy should not be simply "learning coping skills", to deal with negative feelings, it should involve working to root of the problem to facilitate long-lasting change.
(878) 313-2422 View (878) 313-2422
Photo of Michael Schneider - New Directions Mental Health - Wexford, PsyD, Psychologist
New Directions Mental Health - Wexford
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
Offering Teletherapy, Telepsychiatry and in-office visits. We are a heart-centered practice dedicated to providing highly personalized care that supports you in making lasting changes. At New Directions, we specialize in providing the help you need from start to finish including matching you with the right therapist or psychiatric provider. Whether you are looking for individual therapy for yourself, therapy for a child or teen, couple's therapy, family therapy or psychiatric services, we look forward to providing you with compassionate care.
(724) 436-1948 View (724) 436-1948
Photo of Mary Lynn Hammond, MSSA, LSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Lynn Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LSW
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066  (Online Only)
I believe in a strength based, client centered approach. Reaching out for help and support can be difficult. I help to establish a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, providing a safe space to be open and honest in therapy. Self-awareness and self-care are vital to an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. My goal is to foster an individual’s positive growth throughout the therapy process. Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing techniques and solution focused therapy interventions are utilized throughout therapy. Faith-based therapy is provided for anyone who desires this approach.
I believe in a strength based, client centered approach. Reaching out for help and support can be difficult. I help to establish a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, providing a safe space to be open and honest in therapy. Self-awareness and self-care are vital to an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. My goal is to foster an individual’s positive growth throughout the therapy process. Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing techniques and solution focused therapy interventions are utilized throughout therapy. Faith-based therapy is provided for anyone who desires this approach.
(724) 862-4554 View (724) 862-4554
Photo of Jannette Travali, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jannette Travali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Seven Fields, PA 16046
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
(724) 320-1816 View (724) 320-1816
Cynthia Jean Horodnic
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
Are you looking for a therapist to get you unstuck on your journey through life? Are you hitting roadblocks on your path to your emotional well-being? Do you need help or assistance resolving obstacles at this point in your life? Or do you need to be heard or find your voice?
Are you looking for a therapist to get you unstuck on your journey through life? Are you hitting roadblocks on your path to your emotional well-being? Do you need help or assistance resolving obstacles at this point in your life? Or do you need to be heard or find your voice?
(878) 206-1918 View (878) 206-1918

See more therapy options for Mars

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.