Adoption Therapists in Pearland, TX
![Photo of Dawn Lawless - Counseling Connections for Change, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f5513f8-9ef7-4788-a7b5-3ea56c147194/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Connections for Change, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581
Typically, we receive referrals from physicians, pastors, and school counselors in our community to address issues related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship problems, communication, parenting, grief and loss, trauma, adoption, and adjustment issues.
We believe everyone should experience hope and we believe mental health matters. Through our faith-based counseling, education and collaboration efforts, we are the bridge to life-changing solutions. Since 2007, our professional counseling team has helped thousands find hope and improved quality of life. Our agency is trauma-informed and uses evidence-based interventions. We are trained to meet the unique needs of individuals, couples, and whole families. Whether you’ve experienced a sudden loss, or struggle with an ongoing issue, our team is dedicated to supporting your needs.
Typically, we receive referrals from physicians, pastors, and school counselors in our community to address issues related to depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship problems, communication, parenting, grief and loss, trauma, adoption, and adjustment issues.
We believe everyone should experience hope and we believe mental health matters. Through our faith-based counseling, education and collaboration efforts, we are the bridge to life-changing solutions. Since 2007, our professional counseling team has helped thousands find hope and improved quality of life. Our agency is trauma-informed and uses evidence-based interventions. We are trained to meet the unique needs of individuals, couples, and whole families. Whether you’ve experienced a sudden loss, or struggle with an ongoing issue, our team is dedicated to supporting your needs.
![Photo of Jill Foley Torres, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6b7584f-4d93-445d-abdb-990c59887973/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Cindy Castillo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a5db9c6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Tamera Nicole Rasmussen, LPC, LPCC, NCC, C-PD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38968d96-b917-4d50-85db-0d31ba3c72d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tamera Nicole Rasmussen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC, NCC, C-PD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581 (Online Only)
Hi! While it is necessary to introduce myself according to my education, experience, licensing, and specializations it is more important to let you know that I am a human first. I live life just like you and experience parenting pitfalls, marriage challenges, financial quandaries, and all of the other stuff that life is made of. My role in your life isn’t to tell you what to do or how to do it, it is to use the clinical skills I’ve learned, wisdom I’ve gained, and my clinical experience to help you navigate and heal from the “stuff” in your life.
Hi! While it is necessary to introduce myself according to my education, experience, licensing, and specializations it is more important to let you know that I am a human first. I live life just like you and experience parenting pitfalls, marriage challenges, financial quandaries, and all of the other stuff that life is made of. My role in your life isn’t to tell you what to do or how to do it, it is to use the clinical skills I’ve learned, wisdom I’ve gained, and my clinical experience to help you navigate and heal from the “stuff” in your life.
![Photo of Roxanne Deams - Serene Counseling and Wellness, PLLC, MS, LPC-S, CART, 500-CYT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2f91094-d772-46c3-9078-f54dba9bf8fd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Serene Counseling and Wellness, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CART, 500-CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77584
Sometimes life throws a lot at us and we don’t always ask for help when we need it. Stress can come from various places and often even hides making it difficult to see what’s coming until it’s right on top of us. This can lead to emotional challenges which can cause a feeling of instability and a sense of being lost. Being here now is a big step in the process of healing. Together we will work to create a safe space for you and/or your loved ones to create support and establish skills needed to bring stability and balance back into your life. We will help you tap into your inner abilities so that you can be your most authentic you.
Sometimes life throws a lot at us and we don’t always ask for help when we need it. Stress can come from various places and often even hides making it difficult to see what’s coming until it’s right on top of us. This can lead to emotional challenges which can cause a feeling of instability and a sense of being lost. Being here now is a big step in the process of healing. Together we will work to create a safe space for you and/or your loved ones to create support and establish skills needed to bring stability and balance back into your life. We will help you tap into your inner abilities so that you can be your most authentic you.
![Photo of Leah Gillam, LCSW-S, CCPS-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bbb60e2b-ab8d-4351-bbf8-3d8314e4717e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stuck? Lost? Overwhelmed? Relational trauma often leaves behind painful emotional triggers, unresolved grief, an a broken sense of who we really are. If you are reading this, there is probably a part of you that is ready to reclaim your best self. There may also be a part of you that is scared. Asking for help isn't easy, but my hope is to partner with clients and create a safe space to heal and hope again.
Are you feeling stuck? Lost? Overwhelmed? Relational trauma often leaves behind painful emotional triggers, unresolved grief, an a broken sense of who we really are. If you are reading this, there is probably a part of you that is ready to reclaim your best self. There may also be a part of you that is scared. Asking for help isn't easy, but my hope is to partner with clients and create a safe space to heal and hope again.
![Photo of Hannah Marsh, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/550b8b67-f89d-4e9f-a45b-ffa142b80e0c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah Marsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581 (Online Only)
I am deeply committed to supporting individuals navigating through traumatic events, anxiety, and depression. My goal is to foster a secure and nurturing environment where clients and their families can embark on a journey of healing. Central to my approach is the acknowledgment of the mind/body connection, and I take joy in educating clients about their brains and bodies in a trauma-informed and accessible manner.
I am deeply committed to supporting individuals navigating through traumatic events, anxiety, and depression. My goal is to foster a secure and nurturing environment where clients and their families can embark on a journey of healing. Central to my approach is the acknowledgment of the mind/body connection, and I take joy in educating clients about their brains and bodies in a trauma-informed and accessible manner.
![Photo of Daisy Ruiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6d51647-62a9-4c29-854d-06955688852c/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist, I recognize the courage required to be truly open with another person and the extreme vulnerability it takes. My primary objective is to walk alongside you as you navigate your journey offering respect, empathy, and non-judgement. If you feel you have exhausted all options and may doubt your ability to resolve these challenges – I disagree! I strive to empower clients so that they can process and explore more effective resolutions to their problems. My holistic, empathetic, and authentic mission is to help you gain control of your life and envision a new future.
As a therapist, I recognize the courage required to be truly open with another person and the extreme vulnerability it takes. My primary objective is to walk alongside you as you navigate your journey offering respect, empathy, and non-judgement. If you feel you have exhausted all options and may doubt your ability to resolve these challenges – I disagree! I strive to empower clients so that they can process and explore more effective resolutions to their problems. My holistic, empathetic, and authentic mission is to help you gain control of your life and envision a new future.
![Photo of Georgia Lovell, MA , LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4642f965-35ef-4230-98ef-e9c6697e37dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified School Counselor in the state of Texas. I have experience working with children, adolescents, teens, couples and families and desire to help you develop thinking patterns and behavior to work through your current situations. Everyone has a "situation" of which they are challenged, and I pride myself in providing a comforting environment in which a healthy, mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritual solution is encouraged and cultivated.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified School Counselor in the state of Texas. I have experience working with children, adolescents, teens, couples and families and desire to help you develop thinking patterns and behavior to work through your current situations. Everyone has a "situation" of which they are challenged, and I pride myself in providing a comforting environment in which a healthy, mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritual solution is encouraged and cultivated.
![Photo of Rachelle L. Goodwin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d71427a-7500-4754-9579-5d8d0e048c59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachelle L. Goodwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77584
I am passionate about helping both adolescents and adults navigate life’s ups and downs to restore stability and balance to their lives. Together, we will work on overcoming barriers and nurturing your mental wellness within a judgment-free space. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and respect and combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and the gentle art of Mindfulness Therapy. My deep commitment to client-centered care creates a trusting setting where all clients feel free to address their concerns. I am here to support and empower you every step of the way.
I am passionate about helping both adolescents and adults navigate life’s ups and downs to restore stability and balance to their lives. Together, we will work on overcoming barriers and nurturing your mental wellness within a judgment-free space. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and respect and combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and the gentle art of Mindfulness Therapy. My deep commitment to client-centered care creates a trusting setting where all clients feel free to address their concerns. I am here to support and empower you every step of the way.
![Photo of Rachel Zobeck, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4dfe50e-a220-48f7-94f7-ca742fefacc3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Zobeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584 (Online Only)
Hello there. You're probably on this page because you're dealing with something hard and are curious whether counseling could help. Or, maybe you have been to counseling before and are interested in continued support. Some of the issues I have the honor of helping clients with include depression, anxiety, grief, unresolved trauma, and relationship issues. I love getting to see clients overcome obstacles in their life throughout the counseling process. Having a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space can make it possible to bring hard and hidden things into the light. Let's work on it together. Things can get better.
Hello there. You're probably on this page because you're dealing with something hard and are curious whether counseling could help. Or, maybe you have been to counseling before and are interested in continued support. Some of the issues I have the honor of helping clients with include depression, anxiety, grief, unresolved trauma, and relationship issues. I love getting to see clients overcome obstacles in their life throughout the counseling process. Having a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space can make it possible to bring hard and hidden things into the light. Let's work on it together. Things can get better.
15 Second Videos
Jill Foley Torres
Leah Gillam
Kinnari Birla
Tarkitha Williams Tlc Psychotherapy Clinical Supervision
Ana I Rivera
BestYOUtx - Dr. Darrin Erb, Educational Specialist
![Photo of Valerie Alyssa Olvera, MS, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d4170b6-306d-4c55-82b8-57c70835ccc2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to your journey of healing and wholeness. I am so happy you are here. I am passionate about helping individuals live healthy, healed, and whole lives. For me, being a therapist is more than a profession; it is a calling and a great privilege to be a part of your transformative journey towards a more authentic and fulfilling life. When you step into my therapy space, you can expect a warm, empathic, and non-judgmental environment. My primary goal is to make you feel seen, heard, and validated throughout the therapeutic process.
Welcome to your journey of healing and wholeness. I am so happy you are here. I am passionate about helping individuals live healthy, healed, and whole lives. For me, being a therapist is more than a profession; it is a calling and a great privilege to be a part of your transformative journey towards a more authentic and fulfilling life. When you step into my therapy space, you can expect a warm, empathic, and non-judgmental environment. My primary goal is to make you feel seen, heard, and validated throughout the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Dr. Kinnari Birla, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab42b225-06ed-471c-b06e-0c5349aef371/1/320x400.jpeg)
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
![Photo of Dr. Tarkitha Williams Tlc Psychotherapy Clinical Supervision, DPC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf78aa4b-f205-4489-90e4-9de5c8429d0e/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Tarkitha Williams Tlc Psychotherapy Clinical Supervision
Licensed Professional Counselor, DPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584 (Online Only)
You may feeling alone right now and frustrated that no one really understands you, your thoughts and emotions. No worries! I specialize in sex and sexuality, trauma, and LGBTQ concerns. You can expect to receive stellar psychotherapeutic services tailored specifically to you and your needs. I create a compassionate space curated to cultivate healing. So, if you are struggling with issues surrounding trauma, marital issues, sex and sexuality concerns, depression or anxiety, contact me. Let's get this healing started!
You may feeling alone right now and frustrated that no one really understands you, your thoughts and emotions. No worries! I specialize in sex and sexuality, trauma, and LGBTQ concerns. You can expect to receive stellar psychotherapeutic services tailored specifically to you and your needs. I create a compassionate space curated to cultivate healing. So, if you are struggling with issues surrounding trauma, marital issues, sex and sexuality concerns, depression or anxiety, contact me. Let's get this healing started!
![Photo of Ana I Rivera, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbd6a616-95f7-4237-8ee0-e009ef973805/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Science Degree in Counseling and a Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Science- Psychology from the University of Houston- Clear Lake. With my holistic approach to therapy, and strong cultural awareness skills, I have helped children, adolescents, and adults work through their struggles with cultural identity, cultural stigmas about mental health, anxiety, depression, and overcoming trauma by learning to cope on a daily basis. You deserve to live your life without the burden of the past.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Science Degree in Counseling and a Bachelor's Degree in Behavioral Science- Psychology from the University of Houston- Clear Lake. With my holistic approach to therapy, and strong cultural awareness skills, I have helped children, adolescents, and adults work through their struggles with cultural identity, cultural stigmas about mental health, anxiety, depression, and overcoming trauma by learning to cope on a daily basis. You deserve to live your life without the burden of the past.
![Photo of Ali Vasquez, MA, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16a0b8ca-e41f-49c9-81f8-aa02b90db8bb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ali Vasquez
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77584
Have you been feeling stuck in the same cycle that isn't working? Perhaps you've begun to notice physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches or muscle tension in your body. Learning to manage your emotions and how to better communicate with loved ones can help make a big impact in relieving those physical symptoms. Reaching out for support can be the start of your healing journey. I believe that we all have the ability to change our future for the better. While change may not always be easy or comfortable, the reward is almost always worth it. All your wounds deserve healing.
Have you been feeling stuck in the same cycle that isn't working? Perhaps you've begun to notice physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches or muscle tension in your body. Learning to manage your emotions and how to better communicate with loved ones can help make a big impact in relieving those physical symptoms. Reaching out for support can be the start of your healing journey. I believe that we all have the ability to change our future for the better. While change may not always be easy or comfortable, the reward is almost always worth it. All your wounds deserve healing.
![Photo of John Michael Murray, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d48f53f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
John Michael Murray
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77581
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
You are one-of-a-kind. And so, beginning with our first meeting, I will be sure that I clearly understand you and your unique needs. Then, as your therapist, I will work to help you establish and achieve the goals that are immportant to you. Effective psychotherapy supports the emotional healing that leads to wellbeing. My approach includes what I call "relational reflective listening and speaking". It's a process that developes and nurtures the deep respect I have for my patients. In our conversations you and I together will discover new possibilities, new hope that heals the heart.
![Photo of Ashley Johnson, LPC, MEd, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/163b9628-4641-4eb2-b562-4a9fefea543e/2/320x400.jpeg)
What do you want clients to know about you? You are on the search for something. Whether it is clarity, peace, happiness, support, or the freedom to finally explore who YOU truly are. We often feel the pressure to appear we have it all together when deep inside we are fighting a battle within. This journey that you are on, no longer has to be walked alone. What is your approach to therapy? I commend you for acknowledging your pain and seeking out ways to help yourself. I provide individual therapy to young adults, adults and adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem and life transitions.
What do you want clients to know about you? You are on the search for something. Whether it is clarity, peace, happiness, support, or the freedom to finally explore who YOU truly are. We often feel the pressure to appear we have it all together when deep inside we are fighting a battle within. This journey that you are on, no longer has to be walked alone. What is your approach to therapy? I commend you for acknowledging your pain and seeking out ways to help yourself. I provide individual therapy to young adults, adults and adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, low self-esteem and life transitions.
![Photo of Sarah Marie Eiband, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7948ac26-a3d6-4ec2-8afe-338f1342b7cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Marie Eiband
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
Are you feeling overwhelmed with your current situation? Do you feel your life is out of control? Are your relationships suffering? I believe you have all you need to become empowered to create necessary change and lead an intentional and fulfilled life. Empowerment is achieved through compassion, connection, and guidance, elicited from your perceptions of reality and desired goals. As you embrace your own resilience, value, and self-esteem we begin the healing process. I believe this process starts with the connection of mind, body, and soul which enables you to deeply connect with others.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with your current situation? Do you feel your life is out of control? Are your relationships suffering? I believe you have all you need to become empowered to create necessary change and lead an intentional and fulfilled life. Empowerment is achieved through compassion, connection, and guidance, elicited from your perceptions of reality and desired goals. As you embrace your own resilience, value, and self-esteem we begin the healing process. I believe this process starts with the connection of mind, body, and soul which enables you to deeply connect with others.
![Photo of Kali Scheschuk, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/428b42ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kali Scheschuk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pearland, TX 77581
**ADOLESCENT, ADULT, INDIVIDUAL, COUPLES & FAMILY** I am committed to providing my clients with the resources necessary for fundamental changes in their lives to occur. Through guidance, education, goal-setting and teamwork, I believe that each individual has the capacity to enhance his/her life in a positive manner. I am dedicated to providing support, encouragement and accountability for my clients. I also believe in creating an environment where my clients feel safe, which is crucial for resolution and change. Patience and empathy are my strongest qualities.
**ADOLESCENT, ADULT, INDIVIDUAL, COUPLES & FAMILY** I am committed to providing my clients with the resources necessary for fundamental changes in their lives to occur. Through guidance, education, goal-setting and teamwork, I believe that each individual has the capacity to enhance his/her life in a positive manner. I am dedicated to providing support, encouragement and accountability for my clients. I also believe in creating an environment where my clients feel safe, which is crucial for resolution and change. Patience and empathy are my strongest qualities.
See more therapy options for Pearland
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Pearland
- Alvin
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- Friendswood
- Houston
- League City
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- Missouri City
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- West University Place
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.