Adoption Therapists in Galveston, TX

Photo of Carol S. Kerr, MEd, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol S. Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77554  (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 Kifferie Corley, MA, LPC, ADS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kifferie Corley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ADS
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77550
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 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
Galveston, TX 77550
"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 Ashley Frederick, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Frederick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77552
Someone once asked me, "Ashley, what is the number one thing that brings people to counseling?" I laughed and answered, "PEOPLE. People bring people to therapy!" We've all heard that adage: "People go to therapy for the people in their life that WON’T go to therapy”, and it's funny because it's absolutely true! As a professional counselor, I have never met someone who didn't have a story. Everyone has PEOPLE! Everyone has family struggles and relationship issues. Everyone has trouble processing emotions when they feel overwhelmed. Everyone needs someone to confide in and feel safe with, and that's what therapy can be for you.
Someone once asked me, "Ashley, what is the number one thing that brings people to counseling?" I laughed and answered, "PEOPLE. People bring people to therapy!" We've all heard that adage: "People go to therapy for the people in their life that WON’T go to therapy”, and it's funny because it's absolutely true! As a professional counselor, I have never met someone who didn't have a story. Everyone has PEOPLE! Everyone has family struggles and relationship issues. Everyone has trouble processing emotions when they feel overwhelmed. Everyone needs someone to confide in and feel safe with, and that's what therapy can be for you.
(346) 699-2310 View (346) 699-2310
Photo of Tammy S Doyle, LPC,  LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy S Doyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77550
My clinical approach is client-centered and eclectic, and includes Motivational Interviewing, solution-focused, CBT, mindfulness, and strengths-based approaches. The most important factor in therapeutic outcomes is the relationship with your therapist. It is important to create a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship that provides an atmosphere for personal exploration, growth, and recovery. I am passionate about getting to fully understand your internal experience and assist you in recognizing your innate ability to create an empowered and authentic life.
My clinical approach is client-centered and eclectic, and includes Motivational Interviewing, solution-focused, CBT, mindfulness, and strengths-based approaches. The most important factor in therapeutic outcomes is the relationship with your therapist. It is important to create a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship that provides an atmosphere for personal exploration, growth, and recovery. I am passionate about getting to fully understand your internal experience and assist you in recognizing your innate ability to create an empowered and authentic life.
(281) 317-6857 View (281) 317-6857
Photo of Verdale Goins, Ph, D, LPC, CAC, III, Licensed Professional Counselor
Verdale Goins
Licensed Professional Counselor, Ph, D, LPC, CAC, III
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galveston, TX 77550
Utilizing Cognitive Solution Focused Therapy, insight and Wisdom. Providing 34 years of experience. Services include Individual, Marriage, Premarital, Couples, Child, Teens, Family, Substance Abuse, Group, Supervision. Relocated to Texas in Oct. 2017 after 28 years in Denver Colorado. Moved office to Texas City Dec. 2021. Plays guitar & 8th Degree Black belt taught Tae Kwon Do, Tang Soo Do and Hapkido. Experience: working with anxiety, depression, previous trauma issues or concerns, phases of life, career changes, low self esteem, Identity, abuse, relationships, blended families, irritable mood, Spirituality, anger, grief and loss.
Utilizing Cognitive Solution Focused Therapy, insight and Wisdom. Providing 34 years of experience. Services include Individual, Marriage, Premarital, Couples, Child, Teens, Family, Substance Abuse, Group, Supervision. Relocated to Texas in Oct. 2017 after 28 years in Denver Colorado. Moved office to Texas City Dec. 2021. Plays guitar & 8th Degree Black belt taught Tae Kwon Do, Tang Soo Do and Hapkido. Experience: working with anxiety, depression, previous trauma issues or concerns, phases of life, career changes, low self esteem, Identity, abuse, relationships, blended families, irritable mood, Spirituality, anger, grief and loss.
(346) 214-4712 View (346) 214-4712
Photo of Veronica Meza-Hernandez, LCSW-S, BCD, BC-TMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Meza-Hernandez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, BCD, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Galveston, TX 77551
Not accepting new clients
For over 15 years, I have helped children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families cope with life's adversities, changes and significant events that can have a lasting emotional impact. This includes school issues, peer conflict/bullying, low self esteem, grief/loss, relational and family conflict, divorce, parenting and co-parenting, coping with illnesses, abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors and more. I truly believe that given the right type of treatment at a young age a person can overcome adversities and prevent long term negative effects.
For over 15 years, I have helped children, adolescents, young adults, parents, and families cope with life's adversities, changes and significant events that can have a lasting emotional impact. This includes school issues, peer conflict/bullying, low self esteem, grief/loss, relational and family conflict, divorce, parenting and co-parenting, coping with illnesses, abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors and more. I truly believe that given the right type of treatment at a young age a person can overcome adversities and prevent long term negative effects.
(281) 784-3815 View (281) 784-3815
Photo of Heather Rice Taylor, Pre-Licensed Professional
Heather Rice Taylor
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Galveston, TX 77550
Not accepting new clients
(832) 536-5912 View (832) 536-5912

Online Therapists

Photo of Kimberly Glaudy: Family Foundation Initiatives, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Glaudy: Family Foundation Initiatives
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77060
I specialize in working with couples, blended families, parent-child relationships, foster care/ adoption, persons who have experienced various traumatic events, and much more.
There is no question that relationships can be hard, but they can be equally satisfying...if we get them right. Are you struggling to connect to your spouse? Are you feeling frustrated by your children's behaviors? Does your self-esteem get in the way of you living a full life? Do you sometimes feel like there is a battle going on within yourself? Guess what...you are not alone, and it would be my privilege to help you through these difficult times.
I specialize in working with couples, blended families, parent-child relationships, foster care/ adoption, persons who have experienced various traumatic events, and much more.
There is no question that relationships can be hard, but they can be equally satisfying...if we get them right. Are you struggling to connect to your spouse? Are you feeling frustrated by your children's behaviors? Does your self-esteem get in the way of you living a full life? Do you sometimes feel like there is a battle going on within yourself? Guess what...you are not alone, and it would be my privilege to help you through these difficult times.
(281) 843-5621 View (281) 843-5621
Photo of Dr. Kim L Parker - DrKimParkerLCSW, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DrKimParkerLCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77388  (Online Only)
My experience is with foster care, adoption, adolescent issues, play therapy, general mental health issues (anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief and loss, ADHD, etc.
I enjoy helping adolescents and their caregivers cope more effectively with life's stressors together. I also like to help women of all ages and stages to feel strong and successful in their various roles. I utilize talk therapy, through multiple approaches and psychoeducation, to empower my clients with greater self-esteem and confidence, and with stronger coping skills to succeed at home and work.
My experience is with foster care, adoption, adolescent issues, play therapy, general mental health issues (anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, grief and loss, ADHD, etc.
I enjoy helping adolescents and their caregivers cope more effectively with life's stressors together. I also like to help women of all ages and stages to feel strong and successful in their various roles. I utilize talk therapy, through multiple approaches and psychoeducation, to empower my clients with greater self-esteem and confidence, and with stronger coping skills to succeed at home and work.
(832) 793-6698 View (832) 793-6698
Photo of Laura Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77018
I have worked with adolescents ages 12-17 with mental health and a substance use diagnosis in a residential setting, as well as a case manager and program coordinator within foster care and adoption, and am certified in grief, anxiety, and trauma services. I have also worked as a counselor for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Having the skills to cope with your emotions and thoughts and having someone assist you as you work through your emotions and needs at your personal pace is imperative. I have been described as a lighthouse that safely guides others to where they need to go. Let me help you find your way.
I have worked with adolescents ages 12-17 with mental health and a substance use diagnosis in a residential setting, as well as a case manager and program coordinator within foster care and adoption, and am certified in grief, anxiety, and trauma services. I have also worked as a counselor for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Having the skills to cope with your emotions and thoughts and having someone assist you as you work through your emotions and needs at your personal pace is imperative. I have been described as a lighthouse that safely guides others to where they need to go. Let me help you find your way.
(832) 852-3206 View (832) 852-3206
Photo of Patience Simms, LPC, LMFT-A, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patience Simms
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT-A, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77018
My areas of specialty include trauma, adoption and high conflict couples and families.
My goal is to create an environment for my clients where change and healing can happen. Many of my clients come to me because nothing else has worked and they're ready to give up. Whether I am working with a a couple trying to stay married or considering divorce or an adolescent struggling with self harm, I believe clients can surpass coping, heal from trauma and thrive. And, I believe that challenging marriages can grow into healthy connected relationships.
My areas of specialty include trauma, adoption and high conflict couples and families.
My goal is to create an environment for my clients where change and healing can happen. Many of my clients come to me because nothing else has worked and they're ready to give up. Whether I am working with a a couple trying to stay married or considering divorce or an adolescent struggling with self harm, I believe clients can surpass coping, heal from trauma and thrive. And, I believe that challenging marriages can grow into healthy connected relationships.
(713) 903-2764 View (713) 903-2764
Photo of Michael D. Erickson - Erickson Counseling & Mediation PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erickson Counseling & Mediation PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cypress, TX 77429
I specialize in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicide prevention, adoption-issues, cognitive-behavioral therapy and existential therapy.
Michael D. Erickson LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor with an exemplary history of experience working in the mental healthcare industry. Skilled with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Crisis Intervention, Substance Abuse and existential therapy. Strong healthcare professional with a Master’s Degree focused in Counseling Psychology from St. Mary's University of Minnesota. Trained and credentialed mediator for civil and divorce mediation. Also an experienced parenting coordinator/facilitator trained in the legal arena.
I specialize in depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicide prevention, adoption-issues, cognitive-behavioral therapy and existential therapy.
Michael D. Erickson LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor with an exemplary history of experience working in the mental healthcare industry. Skilled with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Crisis Intervention, Substance Abuse and existential therapy. Strong healthcare professional with a Master’s Degree focused in Counseling Psychology from St. Mary's University of Minnesota. Trained and credentialed mediator for civil and divorce mediation. Also an experienced parenting coordinator/facilitator trained in the legal arena.
(832) 981-5693 View (832) 981-5693
Photo of Amy Coldwell, LPC
Amy Coldwell
LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77079
Some of my specialties include Trauma & PTSD, history of abuse, women’s issues, couples counseling, relational issues, parenting & family issues, life transitions, adoption work, attachment issues, anxiety, grief, and depression.
Everybody has a story. My passion is to walk with you in yours. During our work together, my goal is to help you find your voice and empower you to embrace a life of freedom and fulfillment. I take a collaborative approach that helps you weave together your unique strengths, culture, spirituality, relationships, and experiences. My additional training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) has carved out a trauma-informed lens for working with clients of all ages.
Some of my specialties include Trauma & PTSD, history of abuse, women’s issues, couples counseling, relational issues, parenting & family issues, life transitions, adoption work, attachment issues, anxiety, grief, and depression.
Everybody has a story. My passion is to walk with you in yours. During our work together, my goal is to help you find your voice and empower you to embrace a life of freedom and fulfillment. I take a collaborative approach that helps you weave together your unique strengths, culture, spirituality, relationships, and experiences. My additional training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) has carved out a trauma-informed lens for working with clients of all ages.
(281) 843-9352 View (281) 843-9352
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 Valerie Ortega, MS, LPC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Valerie Ortega
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77069
I specialize in working with adults with infertility, adoption, relationship issues, anxiety and grief.
Life can be hard and sometimes have some twists and turns that weren't planned. Maybe you just found out that having a child the way you envision is not going to happen. Or maybe you feel alone and sad with this new baby in your home, almost like you don't know who you are anymore. I understand that taking the first step to come to a therapy session can be nerve wracking and uncomfortable since you don't know me yet, but I hope that in time you can feel that this is a safe space for you to open up and share.
I specialize in working with adults with infertility, adoption, relationship issues, anxiety and grief.
Life can be hard and sometimes have some twists and turns that weren't planned. Maybe you just found out that having a child the way you envision is not going to happen. Or maybe you feel alone and sad with this new baby in your home, almost like you don't know who you are anymore. I understand that taking the first step to come to a therapy session can be nerve wracking and uncomfortable since you don't know me yet, but I hope that in time you can feel that this is a safe space for you to open up and share.
(281) 377-0812 View (281) 377-0812
Photo of Cindy Castillo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Castillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alvin, TX 77511
I have 20+ years of experience working in psychiatric hospitals, medical facilities, community health centers, pediatric clinics, schools, and residential treatment centers. I offered many years to working with children, adolescents, parents, and families through child protective services, rape crisis centers, shelters, neighborhood centers, and adoption centers. I am experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders including PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, & Psychosis including the management of other symptoms that stem from family/ relationship conflict, social difficulties, poor school performance, and violence/ abuse.
I have 20+ years of experience working in psychiatric hospitals, medical facilities, community health centers, pediatric clinics, schools, and residential treatment centers. I offered many years to working with children, adolescents, parents, and families through child protective services, rape crisis centers, shelters, neighborhood centers, and adoption centers. I am experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders including PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, & Psychosis including the management of other symptoms that stem from family/ relationship conflict, social difficulties, poor school performance, and violence/ abuse.
(346) 242-6663 View (346) 242-6663
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 Erik Boie - Capstone Connect-Counseling & Trauma Services, LICSW, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Capstone Connect-Counseling & Trauma Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained
Verified Verified
Kingwood, TX 77339
Welcome! If you're feeling overwhelmed and need help -You have come to the right place. Don't let anything stand in your way of achieving your life's goals, and ultimately feeling better. Capstone Connect is a group practice skilled in play therapy, trauma treatment, and psychotherapy. We are here to help you find solutions to your challenges. Capstone's therapists are master level therapists with advanced skills in psychotherapy and play therapy. We have the expertise to work effectively with diverse challenges including divorce, parenting challenges, behavioral concerns, school, environmental, and medical traumas, adoption, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome! If you're feeling overwhelmed and need help -You have come to the right place. Don't let anything stand in your way of achieving your life's goals, and ultimately feeling better. Capstone Connect is a group practice skilled in play therapy, trauma treatment, and psychotherapy. We are here to help you find solutions to your challenges. Capstone's therapists are master level therapists with advanced skills in psychotherapy and play therapy. We have the expertise to work effectively with diverse challenges including divorce, parenting challenges, behavioral concerns, school, environmental, and medical traumas, adoption, anxiety, and depression.
(832) 981-5496 View (832) 981-5496
Photo of Evelyn Mendoza, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Evelyn Mendoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cypress, TX 77433  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Evelyn, an LPC therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through their unique paths of self-discovery and healing. With a compassionate approach I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, self esteem, and adoption.
Hello, I'm Evelyn, an LPC therapist dedicated to guiding individuals through their unique paths of self-discovery and healing. With a compassionate approach I specialize in anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, self esteem, and adoption.
(346) 572-4691 View (346) 572-4691
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.