Adoption Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Erika Schmitt - The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Are you looking for support in the areas of adoption, foster care, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss, pregnancy decision making, or a related area? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
Are you looking for support in the areas of adoption, foster care, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss, pregnancy decision making, or a related area? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
(412) 214-8895 View (412) 214-8895
Photo of Debrah Anne Cohen, MHL, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Debrah Anne Cohen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHL, MFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221  (Online Only)
Does this describe you? You're a people pleaser, wanting to make everyone happy but yourself. You feel the pain of break-ups and grief very intensely. You are fiercely independent and hate taking help from others. Being placed for adoption can reverberate through all aspects of your life. I help clients grieving the losses associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion. As an adoptee myself, I "get it". I also work with the other sides of the adoption triad: birthparents and adoptive parents.
Does this describe you? You're a people pleaser, wanting to make everyone happy but yourself. You feel the pain of break-ups and grief very intensely. You are fiercely independent and hate taking help from others. Being placed for adoption can reverberate through all aspects of your life. I help clients grieving the losses associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion. As an adoptee myself, I "get it". I also work with the other sides of the adoption triad: birthparents and adoptive parents.
(215) 544-2012 View (215) 544-2012
Photo of Tracy L. Scanlon - Scanlon Counseling & Consulting, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scanlon Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
Specialties: marital & divorce issues (including co-parenting counseling) Grief related to life changes (including death), as well as relationship issues; Adoption support (group & individual).
"I prefer to think of my patients and myself as fellow travelers, a term that abolishes distinctions between 'them' (the afflicted) and 'us' (the healers). ... We are all in this together, and there is no therapist and no person immune to the inherent tragedies of existence." (Borrowed from Dr. Irvin Yalom). My practice makes possible the important work of self-evolution & growth in part due to my eclectic approach & focus on the unique matters of every individual. My lived experiences have greatly influenced my desire to partner with my fellow travelers as we do our 'work' and to do so intentionally and mindfully.
Specialties: marital & divorce issues (including co-parenting counseling) Grief related to life changes (including death), as well as relationship issues; Adoption support (group & individual).
"I prefer to think of my patients and myself as fellow travelers, a term that abolishes distinctions between 'them' (the afflicted) and 'us' (the healers). ... We are all in this together, and there is no therapist and no person immune to the inherent tragedies of existence." (Borrowed from Dr. Irvin Yalom). My practice makes possible the important work of self-evolution & growth in part due to my eclectic approach & focus on the unique matters of every individual. My lived experiences have greatly influenced my desire to partner with my fellow travelers as we do our 'work' and to do so intentionally and mindfully.
(412) 330-1676 View (412) 330-1676
Photo of Joe Ritacco - The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
Are you looking for support as a couple or during a period of grief? Or, in the areas of adoption, infertility, assisted reproductive technology, donor conception, pregnancy loss or pregnancy decision making? You may feel alone, but you are not. We’re here to help. The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh provides specialized counseling services to individuals, families, couples, and children. We work with all individuals and family types, without discrimination.
(412) 307-8865 View (412) 307-8865
Photo of Yvonne L Littlejohn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yvonne L Littlejohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
As an adoption/foster care therapist, I have experience working with individuals living with attachment issues, related to negative interpersonal experiences.
Sometimes life can be challenging, but it doesn't always have to be. You may just need someone to talk to, to help you work out your problems and to listen. You may also be experiencing recent or past trauma that you, "just can't get over", so you suffer in silence, being re-traumatized. Well, you don't have to work through these difficult times alone. Let's Talk.
As an adoption/foster care therapist, I have experience working with individuals living with attachment issues, related to negative interpersonal experiences.
Sometimes life can be challenging, but it doesn't always have to be. You may just need someone to talk to, to help you work out your problems and to listen. You may also be experiencing recent or past trauma that you, "just can't get over", so you suffer in silence, being re-traumatized. Well, you don't have to work through these difficult times alone. Let's Talk.
(412) 534-5391 View (412) 534-5391
Photo of Susan M. Fink, LPC, MSEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan M. Fink
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I enjoy working with individuals and families navigating the challenges of adolescence, adoption, and school issues.
When you want to feel better--about yourself, your relationships, your career--therapy can help. It is my job to listen and to make our time together work for you. A client-focused counseling relationship will help you untangle your issues and take a fresh step forward to feeling better.
I enjoy working with individuals and families navigating the challenges of adolescence, adoption, and school issues.
When you want to feel better--about yourself, your relationships, your career--therapy can help. It is my job to listen and to make our time together work for you. A client-focused counseling relationship will help you untangle your issues and take a fresh step forward to feeling better.
(412) 275-4184 View (412) 275-4184
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 Casey Harvilla, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Casey Harvilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I have also completed training in Sports Counseling and Adoption Competency.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
I have also completed training in Sports Counseling and Adoption Competency.
Life can be chaotic, overwhelming, and leave us feeling stuck or questioning what to do next. These feelings can be difficult to describe and process on our own, and you shouldn’t feel alone in your journey. As a Registered and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am trained in using art making and creativity within the therapeutic process to serve as an option when words are not enough. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet you where you are in your healing process and provide you with the tools to reclaim the chaos in your life and begin experiencing life the way you deserve.
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Photo of Barbara L Sawatis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara L Sawatis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
My experience includes attachment , special needs adoption, addiction & recovery, ACOA/codependency, trauma, women’s issues, and mood disorders.
Have you heard the phrase "If you're going through Hell, keep going”? Sometimes in our darkest moments, we need cheerleaders. We need people who recognize that what we are going through seems unbearable and that the simple act of going forward takes courage. Therapy can be the vehicle to help us move forward. When treatment is non-judgmental, supportive and encouraging, you and your therapist can make an unstoppable team. I believe that people want to be "well," but we just don't know an effective way to achieve it. Together, we can work on identifying your personal path to wellness and improved confidence in your strengths.
My experience includes attachment , special needs adoption, addiction & recovery, ACOA/codependency, trauma, women’s issues, and mood disorders.
Have you heard the phrase "If you're going through Hell, keep going”? Sometimes in our darkest moments, we need cheerleaders. We need people who recognize that what we are going through seems unbearable and that the simple act of going forward takes courage. Therapy can be the vehicle to help us move forward. When treatment is non-judgmental, supportive and encouraging, you and your therapist can make an unstoppable team. I believe that people want to be "well," but we just don't know an effective way to achieve it. Together, we can work on identifying your personal path to wellness and improved confidence in your strengths.
(878) 205-0573 View (878) 205-0573
Photo of Lauryn Kalka, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauryn Kalka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15228
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) currently working toward clinical licences (LCSW) with a wide background in working with children, teens, young adults, and families. I have 10 + years of experience in a variety of settings and capacities including foster care, adoption, residential treatment, wrap around, family preservation, outpatient, and school based mental health. As a therapist I have worked with individuals struggling with trauma, LGBTQ+ needs, self-harm, impulse/attention issues, anxiety/worry, foster care/adoption, and a wide range of other mental health diagnoses and needs.
(412) 612-2355 View (412) 612-2355
Photo of Erin Donnelly, PsyD, MEd, Psychologist
Erin Donnelly
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (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 Rita Lampe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita Lampe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
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 Sydney Stephenson, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Stephenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
In the words of Mr. Rogers, “Play is really the work of childhood." I see kids who have prenatal, preverbal, or early childhood trauma; attachment and behavioral issues; or struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and anger. I will work with you to create a flexible treatment plan tailored to your child's individual needs, using techniques like prescriptive play therapy, filial therapy, expressive arts, sandtray, geek therapy, and attachment-based activities to directly address and heal the impact of stress on the body and brain. I help identify the reasons for children’s behavior and healthier ways to meet those needs.
(412) 214-8961 View (412) 214-8961
Photo of Liv McNulty, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Liv McNulty
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
As someone who is also neurodivergent, I help my clients learn how neurodiversity shows up for them in their spaces. I also support clients with their adoptee journey in whatever that means for them. I often work with clients who are trying to make sense and navigate their complex experiences as an adoptee. Sometimes, this looks like helping clients learn to be authentically themselves even when their childhood/environment require(d) them to assimilate. My work also extends to members of the LGBTQIA+ community in providing validating/ affirming care. I am interested in helping you find your voice even in the discomfort of others.
As someone who is also neurodivergent, I help my clients learn how neurodiversity shows up for them in their spaces. I also support clients with their adoptee journey in whatever that means for them. I often work with clients who are trying to make sense and navigate their complex experiences as an adoptee. Sometimes, this looks like helping clients learn to be authentically themselves even when their childhood/environment require(d) them to assimilate. My work also extends to members of the LGBTQIA+ community in providing validating/ affirming care. I am interested in helping you find your voice even in the discomfort of others.
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Photo of Erika L Gilmore, MSEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika L Gilmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15224
Daytime availability only. Erika is an experienced psychotherapist with a diverse background in the mental health field. She has treated a range of clients such as toddlers, school-age children, teenagers, children in foster care, adoptees, college-age students, and adults in counseling settings. Erika works with both adults and children on healing the wounds that trauma has created in their lives, as well as those experiencing other symptoms that are impacting their lives. When working with clients, Erika utilizes an integrative approach to best meet the needs of the client. This therapeutic space is LGBTQIA+-affirming.
Daytime availability only. Erika is an experienced psychotherapist with a diverse background in the mental health field. She has treated a range of clients such as toddlers, school-age children, teenagers, children in foster care, adoptees, college-age students, and adults in counseling settings. Erika works with both adults and children on healing the wounds that trauma has created in their lives, as well as those experiencing other symptoms that are impacting their lives. When working with clients, Erika utilizes an integrative approach to best meet the needs of the client. This therapeutic space is LGBTQIA+-affirming.
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Photo of Patrick McGowan, Pre-Licensed Professional
Patrick McGowan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
Hello! I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) working towards full licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I am currently a second-year doctoral student seeking a Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision. My master’s degree included specialization in marriage, couples, and family counseling. My counseling experience has been primarily concentrated on underserved populations in individual, couples, and family settings.
Hello! I am a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) working towards full licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I am currently a second-year doctoral student seeking a Ph.D. in Counselor Education & Supervision. My master’s degree included specialization in marriage, couples, and family counseling. My counseling experience has been primarily concentrated on underserved populations in individual, couples, and family settings.
(412) 852-4980 View (412) 852-4980
Photo of Jennifer Leah Pizzuto, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Leah Pizzuto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
You're busy. You're pulled in a million different directions and you have a million more responsibilities. Sometimes you have someone to share this with, and sometimes not. Sometimes you feel lost under all of the pressure to "be better." I'm here to help. Let's peel away the layers of stress, grief, trauma, and pressure to reveal the very best version of you. Let's take journey of self-discovery together. I'm here to listen, support, and help.
You're busy. You're pulled in a million different directions and you have a million more responsibilities. Sometimes you have someone to share this with, and sometimes not. Sometimes you feel lost under all of the pressure to "be better." I'm here to help. Let's peel away the layers of stress, grief, trauma, and pressure to reveal the very best version of you. Let's take journey of self-discovery together. I'm here to listen, support, and help.
(412) 561-9758 View (412) 561-9758
Photo of Liana Martina Maneese, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liana Martina Maneese
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I am a mother, creative, historian, writer, and identity navigation specialist working in the clinical mental health space. I am passionate about our pasts, our brains, anti-racism, justice, relationships, and identity. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health and Applied Psychology from Antioch New England. I like to take big-picture societal and systemic issues and ground them down to our everyday experiences. I believe that building strong, equitable, and informed relationships, with ourselves first, can begin to shift toxic societal narratives that have created cycles of trauma and suffering for far too long.
I am a mother, creative, historian, writer, and identity navigation specialist working in the clinical mental health space. I am passionate about our pasts, our brains, anti-racism, justice, relationships, and identity. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health and Applied Psychology from Antioch New England. I like to take big-picture societal and systemic issues and ground them down to our everyday experiences. I believe that building strong, equitable, and informed relationships, with ourselves first, can begin to shift toxic societal narratives that have created cycles of trauma and suffering for far too long.
(412) 415-7864 View (412) 415-7864
Photo of Danie Duron - Danie Duron - Trauma & Attachment Center of W. MI, MA, LPC, EMDR-C, IATP-C, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danie Duron - Trauma & Attachment Center of W. MI
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR-C, IATP-C, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
At the Trauma and Attachment Center we focus on helping people process their traumas and strengthen their attachments. We are a small group of clinicians with a passion for helping and making people feel welcome. The center was founded by Danie Duron and the following is her personal statement: My ideal client would be a person hoping to heal their trauma that they have encountered in life and would like to use EMDR, (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) in order to do so.
At the Trauma and Attachment Center we focus on helping people process their traumas and strengthen their attachments. We are a small group of clinicians with a passion for helping and making people feel welcome. The center was founded by Danie Duron and the following is her personal statement: My ideal client would be a person hoping to heal their trauma that they have encountered in life and would like to use EMDR, (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) in order to do so.
(616) 219-8664 View (616) 219-8664
Photo of Jennifer Ruth Rozell-Whitaker, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Ruth Rozell-Whitaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
Choosing to start therapy takes courage. It's not easy to look within one's self and challenge yourself to change. In our work together, I will support you in your journey towards personal growth, discovery and change. As an Art Therapist, I believe that engaging in the art process has a powerful way of touching the deepest aspects of one's soul. Through creative approaches in therapy, you can connect authentically with yourself and thrive. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I can help each person use the process to grow.
Choosing to start therapy takes courage. It's not easy to look within one's self and challenge yourself to change. In our work together, I will support you in your journey towards personal growth, discovery and change. As an Art Therapist, I believe that engaging in the art process has a powerful way of touching the deepest aspects of one's soul. Through creative approaches in therapy, you can connect authentically with yourself and thrive. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, I can help each person use the process to grow.
(878) 768-7027 View (878) 768-7027
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.