Adoption Therapists in Houston, TX

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 Dr. Erin Andrews, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Erin Andrews
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
An adoptee myself, I use a trauma-informed approach to work with those who have been affected by adoption.
Are you trying to make sense of your life following the diagnosis of a disability or chronic illness? Are you looking for help managing emotional distress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you struggle with the aftermath of adoption trauma? Sometimes life throws unexpected obstacles at us. Therapy can help, whether you are dealing with a new onset disability, coping with the frustrations of living disabled in an ableist society, or navigating the complexities of international or transracial adoption.
An adoptee myself, I use a trauma-informed approach to work with those who have been affected by adoption.
Are you trying to make sense of your life following the diagnosis of a disability or chronic illness? Are you looking for help managing emotional distress, anxiety, or relationship issues? Do you struggle with the aftermath of adoption trauma? Sometimes life throws unexpected obstacles at us. Therapy can help, whether you are dealing with a new onset disability, coping with the frustrations of living disabled in an ableist society, or navigating the complexities of international or transracial adoption.
(512) 881-7201 View (512) 881-7201
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 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 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 Erin McKinney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009  (Online Only)
Kate McKinney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience working with individuals, children, and families. As a mother and a trauma-informed therapist, Kate believes in the healing power of attunement and shared joy. Focus areas of practice include building resilience, fostering self-compassion, and developing coping strategies for the challenges of daily life. Specialties include anxiety, low self-esteem, parenting, childhood trauma, and adoption issues.
Kate McKinney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience working with individuals, children, and families. As a mother and a trauma-informed therapist, Kate believes in the healing power of attunement and shared joy. Focus areas of practice include building resilience, fostering self-compassion, and developing coping strategies for the challenges of daily life. Specialties include anxiety, low self-esteem, parenting, childhood trauma, and adoption issues.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Nicole Savage, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Savage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
I am certified in multiple evidence-based parenting programs, and I have additional experience and training in military culture, trauma, foster care/ adoption, and religious perspectives.
Hi! I'm Nicole and I am an LPC in Texas and an LMHC in Washington State. I aim to provide an environment in which you feel accepted and encouraged as you work toward growth and contentment.
I am certified in multiple evidence-based parenting programs, and I have additional experience and training in military culture, trauma, foster care/ adoption, and religious perspectives.
Hi! I'm Nicole and I am an LPC in Texas and an LMHC in Washington State. I aim to provide an environment in which you feel accepted and encouraged as you work toward growth and contentment.
(832) 769-4049 View (832) 769-4049
Photo of Lee Ann Nichols, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lee Ann Nichols
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77069
Selecting a counselor can be a daunting process. It may take several introductions or meetings to find a comfortable fit. The client should be an active part of the process of determining a good fit. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Texas. My education includes a BA in Psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University and an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Houston Clear Lake. My work experience in the mental health field includes various settings and populations such as inpatient, outpatient/private practice, psychosocial clubhouse, foster care, adoption/post adoption, and management of chronic pain.
Selecting a counselor can be a daunting process. It may take several introductions or meetings to find a comfortable fit. The client should be an active part of the process of determining a good fit. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Texas. My education includes a BA in Psychology from Stephen F. Austin State University and an MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Houston Clear Lake. My work experience in the mental health field includes various settings and populations such as inpatient, outpatient/private practice, psychosocial clubhouse, foster care, adoption/post adoption, and management of chronic pain.
(281) 968-0943 View (281) 968-0943
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 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 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 Jamie M Schneider, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie M Schneider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
I enjoy helping children and teens that are struggling with aspects of life such as learning differences, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, peer conflict, trauma, shame, and lack of self-worth. Are you a parent with complicated feelings surrounding parenting and wonder what will work for your child's specific needs? I can help you figure figure it out. Maybe you are curious about expanding your family through adoption. My life’s passion is helping individuals through these passages in life.
I enjoy helping children and teens that are struggling with aspects of life such as learning differences, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, peer conflict, trauma, shame, and lack of self-worth. Are you a parent with complicated feelings surrounding parenting and wonder what will work for your child's specific needs? I can help you figure figure it out. Maybe you are curious about expanding your family through adoption. My life’s passion is helping individuals through these passages in life.
(832) 639-1676 View (832) 639-1676
Photo of Philip Buchanan Young, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Philip Buchanan Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005
His clinical areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, developmental trauma, adoption issues, chemical dependency, stress management, and life transitions.
Philip works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. When working with adolescents who are struggling with independence and autonomy, Philip helps them explore and identify their true potential. This work often surrounds addictions and special occasion adoption issues. His work with adult clients facing life’s challenges focuses on relationship with self and others, as well as providing a safe space for accurate reflection.
His clinical areas of interest include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, developmental trauma, adoption issues, chemical dependency, stress management, and life transitions.
Philip works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. When working with adolescents who are struggling with independence and autonomy, Philip helps them explore and identify their true potential. This work often surrounds addictions and special occasion adoption issues. His work with adult clients facing life’s challenges focuses on relationship with self and others, as well as providing a safe space for accurate reflection.
(281) 231-9895 View (281) 231-9895
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
Houston, TX 77027
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 Christina Runnels, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, PMH-C
Christina Runnels
MA, LPC-S, LCDC, PMH-C
Not Verified Not Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
Waitlist for new clients
I also have additional training in attachment issues in children and adults, adoption, LGTBQ issues, sex therapy, parenting a difficult child, birth trauma, and working through other traumas.
I proudly supporting pregnant and postpartum families in their journeys towards feeling healthy and whole. My style is eclectic because I tailor treatment to fit each person's individual needs. My services are provided in a comfortable, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel safe to explore new solutions.
I also have additional training in attachment issues in children and adults, adoption, LGTBQ issues, sex therapy, parenting a difficult child, birth trauma, and working through other traumas.
I proudly supporting pregnant and postpartum families in their journeys towards feeling healthy and whole. My style is eclectic because I tailor treatment to fit each person's individual needs. My services are provided in a comfortable, nonjudgmental environment where you can feel safe to explore new solutions.
(281) 299-3471 View (281) 299-3471
Photo of Dr. Kim L Parker - DrKimParkerLCSW, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DrKimParkerLCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77067  (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 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
Houston, TX 77040
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 Antwine D. Charles Sr., LPC, CMHC, LCDC In, EMDR-Tr, Licensed Professional Counselor
Antwine D. Charles Sr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC, LCDC In, EMDR-Tr
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77028
Antwine also has a heart for those that lived with or may currently be living in an abusive environment and endeavors to assist in finding safety and security through counseling, community services while working with various organizations to assist in adoption of a better life for those suffering from the effects of abuse.
Antwine D. Charles Sr is a retired veteran who served 24 years as a Navy Corpsman (medic) in the U.S. Navy. Serving in many countries and theatre’s, Antwine encountered many different cultures, in various war-torn, under-developed, and impoverished communities. Earning his Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, his interest include other cultures, customs and traditions. His journey ignited his interest in multi-cultural counseling, community servanthood and an endeavor to bring Mental Healthcare to those who are in need of counseling services wherever he can.
Antwine also has a heart for those that lived with or may currently be living in an abusive environment and endeavors to assist in finding safety and security through counseling, community services while working with various organizations to assist in adoption of a better life for those suffering from the effects of abuse.
Antwine D. Charles Sr is a retired veteran who served 24 years as a Navy Corpsman (medic) in the U.S. Navy. Serving in many countries and theatre’s, Antwine encountered many different cultures, in various war-torn, under-developed, and impoverished communities. Earning his Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, his interest include other cultures, customs and traditions. His journey ignited his interest in multi-cultural counseling, community servanthood and an endeavor to bring Mental Healthcare to those who are in need of counseling services wherever he can.
(361) 264-7679 View (361) 264-7679
Photo of Brooke Medina, LCSW-S, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brooke Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77070
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I specialize in working with children (as young as 2 years old), teens, parents, and women to address a variety of emotional and behavioral issues, such as life transitions, inattention/impulsivity, depression, anxiety, parent-child relational issues, grief, trauma, anger management, school and social challenges, attachment difficulties, developmental delays, adoption, selective mutism, shame and resilience practice, and a multitude of other presenting challenges.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I specialize in working with children (as young as 2 years old), teens, parents, and women to address a variety of emotional and behavioral issues, such as life transitions, inattention/impulsivity, depression, anxiety, parent-child relational issues, grief, trauma, anger management, school and social challenges, attachment difficulties, developmental delays, adoption, selective mutism, shame and resilience practice, and a multitude of other presenting challenges.
(281) 839-2229 View (281) 839-2229
Photo of Angie Gibbons, MA
Angie Gibbons
MA
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
I also have experience with and am an advocate for adoption and for families navigating attachment and special needs challenges.
I have a passion for empowering women to experience healthy emotions and mindsets, develop connected relationships, and reach their personal goals. Despite stressors and challenges, I believe we are all capable of thriving in the life we have today. I use an integrative approach, combining the latest brain science with faith-based practices. I have served women and couples in ministry for more than 10 years and completed my Masters in Counseling through Liberty University, as well as a Christian Life Coaching Certification. Along with my husband and 3 teenage daughters, I am a long-time resident of Oahu, Hawaii.
I also have experience with and am an advocate for adoption and for families navigating attachment and special needs challenges.
I have a passion for empowering women to experience healthy emotions and mindsets, develop connected relationships, and reach their personal goals. Despite stressors and challenges, I believe we are all capable of thriving in the life we have today. I use an integrative approach, combining the latest brain science with faith-based practices. I have served women and couples in ministry for more than 10 years and completed my Masters in Counseling through Liberty University, as well as a Christian Life Coaching Certification. Along with my husband and 3 teenage daughters, I am a long-time resident of Oahu, Hawaii.
(808) 755-2882 View (808) 755-2882
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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.