Adoption Therapists in Dickinson, TX

Photo of Carol S. Kerr, MEd, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol S. Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Dickinson, TX 77539  (Online Only)
My Specialties Include: Parenting Education (Behavior, Adoption, Foster Care), Child/Adolescent (Behavior, Life Changes, ADHD, School, Depression, Anxiety), Adults (Depression, Anxiety, Divorce), Marital/Couple Counseling, Personal Growth, Aging, Work Conflicts, Drug & Alcohol, Codependency, Acute Crisis Counseling (Loss), Christian Counseling (on request).
I am a highly experienced Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I work with Children, Adolescents, and Adults. My Counseling Style is Solution-Oriented and Positive. Due to personal life histories there is no one-size-fits-all approach to counseling. Therefore, using a team approach we can sort out what choices may be a good fit for your unique personality and aspirations.
My Specialties Include: Parenting Education (Behavior, Adoption, Foster Care), Child/Adolescent (Behavior, Life Changes, ADHD, School, Depression, Anxiety), Adults (Depression, Anxiety, Divorce), Marital/Couple Counseling, Personal Growth, Aging, Work Conflicts, Drug & Alcohol, Codependency, Acute Crisis Counseling (Loss), Christian Counseling (on request).
I am a highly experienced Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I work with Children, Adolescents, and Adults. My Counseling Style is Solution-Oriented and Positive. Due to personal life histories there is no one-size-fits-all approach to counseling. Therefore, using a team approach we can sort out what choices may be a good fit for your unique personality and aspirations.
(281) 336-9470 View (281) 336-9470
Photo of Rick Ertell - MYS Counseling & Assessment, LPC-S, EdD, CART, Licensed Professional Counselor
MYS Counseling & Assessment
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EdD, CART
Verified Verified
Dickinson, TX 77539
Our team is focused on helping our clients and their families find peace and success in their home, work and relationships through our unique method. It is brief and solution-focused, enabling clients to reconnect with their authentic selves and be the person they know they can be. Our therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists are of one mind, that you are unique and valuable, and have the potential to succeed in life and relationships. Our brief therapy period focuses on helping you know how your brain is tripping you up and how it can heal you as well, know yourself better than ever, and reclaim lost self-esteem and freedom!
Our team is focused on helping our clients and their families find peace and success in their home, work and relationships through our unique method. It is brief and solution-focused, enabling clients to reconnect with their authentic selves and be the person they know they can be. Our therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists are of one mind, that you are unique and valuable, and have the potential to succeed in life and relationships. Our brief therapy period focuses on helping you know how your brain is tripping you up and how it can heal you as well, know yourself better than ever, and reclaim lost self-esteem and freedom!
(979) 428-2930 View (979) 428-2930
Photo of Tammy S Fountain - Galveston Counseling for Wellness, LPC-S, CGP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Galveston Counseling for Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CGP
Verified Verified
Dickinson, TX 77539
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do With Your one wild and precious life? " - from Mary Oliver's The Summer Day Tammy S. Fountain, M.A., LPC-S is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor who has provided services to people of all ages in the Galveston-Houston area for over decades. She has worked with children, adolescents and adults with emotional, physical and spiritual struggles inpatient and outpatient facilities, including Shriners' Burns Hospital, UTMB Children's Hospital, The Menninger Clinic's Professionals in Crisis Program, Teen and Family Services (addictions), Art Bridge Houston and in a private practice.
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do With Your one wild and precious life? " - from Mary Oliver's The Summer Day Tammy S. Fountain, M.A., LPC-S is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor who has provided services to people of all ages in the Galveston-Houston area for over decades. She has worked with children, adolescents and adults with emotional, physical and spiritual struggles inpatient and outpatient facilities, including Shriners' Burns Hospital, UTMB Children's Hospital, The Menninger Clinic's Professionals in Crisis Program, Teen and Family Services (addictions), Art Bridge Houston and in a private practice.
(409) 205-1502 View (409) 205-1502
Photo of Regina Andrews Duarte, BS, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Regina Andrews Duarte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Dickinson, TX 77539
If you are feeling stuck, grieving, going through a change and/or confused, it can help to talk with someone who is objective, yet supportive. At times, transitions bring us to a critical juncture or a cross road. Sometimes, it is a shift and at other points it is a moment of truth. Whatever the case, you are not alone and it is possible to develop a sense of effectiveness. Although outcomes vary, the objective is peace of mind. Helping people feel better comes with over 35 years experience. All sevices are provided in Spanish and English.
If you are feeling stuck, grieving, going through a change and/or confused, it can help to talk with someone who is objective, yet supportive. At times, transitions bring us to a critical juncture or a cross road. Sometimes, it is a shift and at other points it is a moment of truth. Whatever the case, you are not alone and it is possible to develop a sense of effectiveness. Although outcomes vary, the objective is peace of mind. Helping people feel better comes with over 35 years experience. All sevices are provided in Spanish and English.
(409) 226-0561 View (409) 226-0561
Photo of Jennifer G. Ferguson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer G. Ferguson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dickinson, TX 77539
TEENS, ADULTS, COUPLES: IN PERSON APPTS AVAILABLE. We live in a world of upheaval, difficulties that can be challenging for even the healthiest Teen, Adult, and Couple. Do you have the ability to cope when life begins to unravel, family breaks down, and anxiety takes over? I am here to listen, support you where you are, and collaborate on new ways to live positively, without anxiety, depression or even addiction. Clients are looking for practical, real life solutions that can be used in real life settings. I provide a supportive, caring, "authentic" therapy environment, through a great counseling relationship with my clients.
TEENS, ADULTS, COUPLES: IN PERSON APPTS AVAILABLE. We live in a world of upheaval, difficulties that can be challenging for even the healthiest Teen, Adult, and Couple. Do you have the ability to cope when life begins to unravel, family breaks down, and anxiety takes over? I am here to listen, support you where you are, and collaborate on new ways to live positively, without anxiety, depression or even addiction. Clients are looking for practical, real life solutions that can be used in real life settings. I provide a supportive, caring, "authentic" therapy environment, through a great counseling relationship with my clients.
(832) 280-1579 View (832) 280-1579
Photo of Ricky Ertell, Ed D, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ricky Ertell
Licensed Professional Counselor, Ed D, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dickinson, TX 77539
In person and online appointments available. Online appointments go to our website and clink on the link for your provider to access your provider at you scheduled appointment time. I care about all my patients and want to help you any way I can. I have learned a variety of modalities to better help with all issues. Give me a call. I will work to ensure you become the individual you want to become!
In person and online appointments available. Online appointments go to our website and clink on the link for your provider to access your provider at you scheduled appointment time. I care about all my patients and want to help you any way I can. I have learned a variety of modalities to better help with all issues. Give me a call. I will work to ensure you become the individual you want to become!
(832) 637-8449 View (832) 637-8449

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Margaret Abrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Abrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with over twenty years of experience working in social services and two and a half years of counseling experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, adoption, and challenges with self-harming. In sessions I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. In session I take a client centered approach, I am here to support the client and to help along their journey.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with over twenty years of experience working in social services and two and a half years of counseling experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, adoption, and challenges with self-harming. In sessions I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. In session I take a client centered approach, I am here to support the client and to help along their journey.
(469) 933-0885 View (469) 933-0885
Photo of Mindy Clarkson, MEd, CBC
Mindy Clarkson
MEd, CBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
FAITH-BASED counseling. NO waitlist. SAME week & EVENING appointments available! Working with Adolescents, Depression, Anxiety, Guilt/Shame, Relationships, Self Worth, Parenting, Women, Codependency, Grief, Adoption using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Biblical Christian Counseling.
FAITH-BASED counseling. NO waitlist. SAME week & EVENING appointments available! Working with Adolescents, Depression, Anxiety, Guilt/Shame, Relationships, Self Worth, Parenting, Women, Codependency, Grief, Adoption using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Biblical Christian Counseling.
(832) 653-4435 View (832) 653-4435
Photo of Cori East-Long, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cori East-Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bacliff, TX 77518
I am Cori Jo East-Long. a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Tarleton State University. I have worked in the mental health field for over 8 years. I have a history of working with clients with depression and anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse issues. My other areas of expertise include foster care, adoption, parenting issues, and LGBTQ+ issues. I use approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and Adlerian therapy.
I am Cori Jo East-Long. a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Tarleton State University. I have worked in the mental health field for over 8 years. I have a history of working with clients with depression and anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse issues. My other areas of expertise include foster care, adoption, parenting issues, and LGBTQ+ issues. I use approaches such as Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Based Relational Intervention (TBRI), and Adlerian therapy.
(512) 991-5292 View (512) 991-5292
Photo of Arielle Chandler Carrier, PhD, MEd, MPH, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arielle Chandler Carrier
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MEd, MPH, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Seabrook, TX 77586
I also have experience in a few niches: PTSD/veterans, disasters, law enforcement, government, corporate employees, healthcare providers, entrepreneurs/business owners, therapy for therapists or therapists in training (supporting my colleagues), foster care & adoption, GT kids, and providing home-based child therapy integrated with parent support.
I know how difficult it is to find the right therapist to connect with. You've probably been thinking about therapy for a while. Are you hardest on yourself? My expertise: anxiety, depression, stress, increasing happiness, improving relationships, wellness & balance, coping, improving ways to relax, empowering you to make changes & advance in your life, self-esteem, perfectionism, toxic work environments, career transitions, "reinventing yourself," childhood trauma, ADHD, and OCD. I'm a change agent specializing in emotional challenges, especially helping high achieving adults & gifted/talented children.
I also have experience in a few niches: PTSD/veterans, disasters, law enforcement, government, corporate employees, healthcare providers, entrepreneurs/business owners, therapy for therapists or therapists in training (supporting my colleagues), foster care & adoption, GT kids, and providing home-based child therapy integrated with parent support.
I know how difficult it is to find the right therapist to connect with. You've probably been thinking about therapy for a while. Are you hardest on yourself? My expertise: anxiety, depression, stress, increasing happiness, improving relationships, wellness & balance, coping, improving ways to relax, empowering you to make changes & advance in your life, self-esteem, perfectionism, toxic work environments, career transitions, "reinventing yourself," childhood trauma, ADHD, and OCD. I'm a change agent specializing in emotional challenges, especially helping high achieving adults & gifted/talented children.
(281) 638-8650 View (281) 638-8650
Photo of Tanya de Koning, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tanya de Koning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
My passion is helping adults, teens, and children find healing from trauma-related challenges and relational hardships. As a Christian therapist, I enjoy helping clients find freedom from anything limiting them from walking in their true identity. I am trained in play therapy, am a Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Practitioner, and have worked over a decade with those who have experienced challenges related to trauma, foster care/ adoption and domestic violence. Additionally, my background includes working with couples and strengthening relationships from various walks of life.
My passion is helping adults, teens, and children find healing from trauma-related challenges and relational hardships. As a Christian therapist, I enjoy helping clients find freedom from anything limiting them from walking in their true identity. I am trained in play therapy, am a Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Practitioner, and have worked over a decade with those who have experienced challenges related to trauma, foster care/ adoption and domestic violence. Additionally, my background includes working with couples and strengthening relationships from various walks of life.
(281) 915-1325 View (281) 915-1325
Photo of Jill Foley Torres, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Jill Foley Torres
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
VAWA, I-601 waivers, asylum, cancellation of removal cases), fitness for duty evaluations and adoption evaluations.
Now Accepting New Clients. Foley Torres Dr. Torres offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychological Evaluations. She also provides supervision for interns/post-doctoral students . Dr. Torres is accustomed to treating clients with mental health disorders such as Trichotillomania, gender dysphoria, OCD, Panic Disorder, Depression, and other serious mental health struggles. Dr. Torres has a special interest in helping preteens, teens and adults on the autism spectrum. Her clinic is open to people of any nationality, race religion, gender and sexual orientation. Saturday appointments are available. Call 832-705-0912 for an appt.
VAWA, I-601 waivers, asylum, cancellation of removal cases), fitness for duty evaluations and adoption evaluations.
Now Accepting New Clients. Foley Torres Dr. Torres offers Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Psychological Evaluations. She also provides supervision for interns/post-doctoral students . Dr. Torres is accustomed to treating clients with mental health disorders such as Trichotillomania, gender dysphoria, OCD, Panic Disorder, Depression, and other serious mental health struggles. Dr. Torres has a special interest in helping preteens, teens and adults on the autism spectrum. Her clinic is open to people of any nationality, race religion, gender and sexual orientation. Saturday appointments are available. Call 832-705-0912 for an appt.
(281) 317-7971 View (281) 317-7971
Photo of Leela Roy, MA, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Leela Roy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
In addition, I am also a trust based relationship intervention (TBRI) practitioner, and have experience working with families in foster care and through adoption.
Zechariah 4:10 NLT says "Do not despise these small beginnings for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin." Seeking help can be difficult, but it is one of the most essential parts of your healing journey, I'm glad you're here! As a Christian biblical therapist, I enjoy coming alongside of my clients through the most difficult seasons in life and helping them navigate through the complexity of their feelings and thought processes. I enjoy working with children, teens, sibling groups, and couples (pre-marital and marital).
In addition, I am also a trust based relationship intervention (TBRI) practitioner, and have experience working with families in foster care and through adoption.
Zechariah 4:10 NLT says "Do not despise these small beginnings for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin." Seeking help can be difficult, but it is one of the most essential parts of your healing journey, I'm glad you're here! As a Christian biblical therapist, I enjoy coming alongside of my clients through the most difficult seasons in life and helping them navigate through the complexity of their feelings and thought processes. I enjoy working with children, teens, sibling groups, and couples (pre-marital and marital).
(281) 809-6462 View (281) 809-6462
Photo of Shannon Thompson, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shannon Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598
My specialty is in treating anxiety, depression, and supporting foster care & adoption related issues.
The world can be a stressful place causing us to feel overwhelmed, alone, and sometimes hopeless. I believe in a holistic therapeutic approach to improve client's areas of difficulty, as well as to highlight their individual strengths. With my background as a school psychologist, I am experienced in helping students achieve their social, emotional, and educational goals. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents and families, however, I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. My priority is to help all clients feel seen, heard, and valued.
My specialty is in treating anxiety, depression, and supporting foster care & adoption related issues.
The world can be a stressful place causing us to feel overwhelmed, alone, and sometimes hopeless. I believe in a holistic therapeutic approach to improve client's areas of difficulty, as well as to highlight their individual strengths. With my background as a school psychologist, I am experienced in helping students achieve their social, emotional, and educational goals. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents and families, however, I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. My priority is to help all clients feel seen, heard, and valued.
(832) 720-6627 View (832) 720-6627
Photo of Tiffany Braman, MS, NCC
Tiffany Braman
LPC Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
As of 10/9/24 - Immediate Evening openings: Monday 4-8 pm. Life can be overwhelming, challenging, and exhausting. You know you don't want things to stay the same, but are not sure where to start. It can be frustrating to feel like you're doing your best and still be stuck. Whether it is dealing with life changes and transitions, a new ADHD diagnosis, relationship struggles, or you're not even able to pinpoint what it is - I'm here to listen as you process through and work towards having the life you desire.
As of 10/9/24 - Immediate Evening openings: Monday 4-8 pm. Life can be overwhelming, challenging, and exhausting. You know you don't want things to stay the same, but are not sure where to start. It can be frustrating to feel like you're doing your best and still be stuck. Whether it is dealing with life changes and transitions, a new ADHD diagnosis, relationship struggles, or you're not even able to pinpoint what it is - I'm here to listen as you process through and work towards having the life you desire.
(281) 843-8395 View (281) 843-8395
Photo of Rebecca Marsh - The Family Relationship Center, PLLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Family Relationship Center, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77058
You don't have to face your issues alone. We specialize in helping individuals and couples achieve healthier relationships. We are here to help you talk through your personal, private issues in a safe, accepting, supportive, comfortable, and collaborative environment. Our goal is to help clients understand their emotions and to identify patterns of communication that can lead to core issues or problems within their relationships. We assist each client and/or family in developing new strategies to achieve clarification and honesty within themselves.
You don't have to face your issues alone. We specialize in helping individuals and couples achieve healthier relationships. We are here to help you talk through your personal, private issues in a safe, accepting, supportive, comfortable, and collaborative environment. Our goal is to help clients understand their emotions and to identify patterns of communication that can lead to core issues or problems within their relationships. We assist each client and/or family in developing new strategies to achieve clarification and honesty within themselves.
(281) 746-6394 View (281) 746-6394
Photo of Kifferie Corley, MA, LPC, ADS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kifferie Corley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADS
Verified Verified
Clear Lake Shores, TX 77565
If you are struggling to love yourself and others, seeking guidance is a great place to start. I am dedicated to helping adult individuals nurture and grow their inner resources for healing, happiness, and peace. My aim is to work collaboratively with you to restore your innate capacity for greater resilience and connection. I deeply believe in the wisdom of mind-body-spirit and the brain's natural healing processes, and trust that those are driving each of you, in the context of your relationship with me and/or with your family, to seek wholeness and vitality.
If you are struggling to love yourself and others, seeking guidance is a great place to start. I am dedicated to helping adult individuals nurture and grow their inner resources for healing, happiness, and peace. My aim is to work collaboratively with you to restore your innate capacity for greater resilience and connection. I deeply believe in the wisdom of mind-body-spirit and the brain's natural healing processes, and trust that those are driving each of you, in the context of your relationship with me and/or with your family, to seek wholeness and vitality.
(832) 981-1883 View (832) 981-1883
Photo of Shelly Kessinger - Friendswood Marriage Counseling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Friendswood Marriage Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
Do you feel hopeless in your marriage? Do you keep getting into the same fights over and over again? We specialize in repairing relationships. At Friendswood Marriage Counseling, we believe that communication is the KEY to a healthy relationship. We are communication and relationship experts. We have therapists that specialize in communication, boundaries, conflict resolution, how to fight fair, and healthy relationships. We are a team of friendly, non-judgmental, and professional therapists.
Do you feel hopeless in your marriage? Do you keep getting into the same fights over and over again? We specialize in repairing relationships. At Friendswood Marriage Counseling, we believe that communication is the KEY to a healthy relationship. We are communication and relationship experts. We have therapists that specialize in communication, boundaries, conflict resolution, how to fight fair, and healthy relationships. We are a team of friendly, non-judgmental, and professional therapists.
(346) 205-0246 View (346) 205-0246
Photo of Rachael Edelman, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachael Edelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
My therapeutic style involves helping you to arrive at insight, strategies, and tools that you can begin using immediately to make positive change in your life. I want to be able to create a safe place for you where you do not feel judged. I want you to be able to share your concerns and thoughts openly and freely with me. I love to provide you with concrete tools wherever possible and help you to have a plan for the following days before our next session, if that is the pace you would like to move at Most importantly, we are going to make sure we are making progress on goals that you have for yourself. I will be there to guide you
My therapeutic style involves helping you to arrive at insight, strategies, and tools that you can begin using immediately to make positive change in your life. I want to be able to create a safe place for you where you do not feel judged. I want you to be able to share your concerns and thoughts openly and freely with me. I love to provide you with concrete tools wherever possible and help you to have a plan for the following days before our next session, if that is the pace you would like to move at Most importantly, we are going to make sure we are making progress on goals that you have for yourself. I will be there to guide you
View
Photo of Chelsea Johnson, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Chelsea Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
I connect deeply with BIPOC individuals, LGBTQ+ community members, non-traditional and blended families, and couples seeking reconnection. They face challenges like racial trauma, identity struggles, societal judgment, and communication breakdowns. They seek a compassionate therapist for culturally competent, affirmative care to feel seen, build resilience, and foster deeper connections. Their goal is to find inner peace, confidently navigate life's transitions, and cultivate strong, meaningful relationships in a supportive environment. I tailor each session to your unique needs, ensuring a client-centered experience.
I connect deeply with BIPOC individuals, LGBTQ+ community members, non-traditional and blended families, and couples seeking reconnection. They face challenges like racial trauma, identity struggles, societal judgment, and communication breakdowns. They seek a compassionate therapist for culturally competent, affirmative care to feel seen, build resilience, and foster deeper connections. Their goal is to find inner peace, confidently navigate life's transitions, and cultivate strong, meaningful relationships in a supportive environment. I tailor each session to your unique needs, ensuring a client-centered experience.
(281) 801-5826 View (281) 801-5826
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.