Adoption Therapists in Sachse, TX

Photo of Laura Lynn Lancaster, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Lynn Lancaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sachse, TX 75048  (Online Only)
****EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS**** Healing begins with the first step. * Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? * Can't sleep, unable to focus or concentrate, feeling sad, angry or numb? * Is your work suffering? Your family and home-life suffering? * Have you experienced abuse or trauma? * Do you have feelings of guilt or shame? * Are you feeling depressed or anxious? * Are you feeling a loss of control over your life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you are not alone. Help is just a STEP away. We can work together towards your journey of healing.
****EVENING & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS**** Healing begins with the first step. * Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? * Can't sleep, unable to focus or concentrate, feeling sad, angry or numb? * Is your work suffering? Your family and home-life suffering? * Have you experienced abuse or trauma? * Do you have feelings of guilt or shame? * Are you feeling depressed or anxious? * Are you feeling a loss of control over your life? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you are not alone. Help is just a STEP away. We can work together towards your journey of healing.
(469) 251-1145 View (469) 251-1145
Photo of Maggie Roney, MS, NCC, LPC, ICP, AFMC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maggie Roney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, ICP, AFMC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sachse, TX 75048
I know that experiencing a major life event such as trauma, a medical diagnosis, relationship conflict or parenting concern can turn the world you know upside down. I believe that as a person we can heal and recover whether this is mentally, physically or both. I have a holistic practice that not only helps your mental wellbeing but can address your physical health as well. I am Licensed Professional Counselor and Functional Medicine Practitioner. I can address your overall wellbeing not just your mental health. I am a certified EMDR (eye movement, desensitization and reprocessing) therapist and use other types of therapy to help.
I know that experiencing a major life event such as trauma, a medical diagnosis, relationship conflict or parenting concern can turn the world you know upside down. I believe that as a person we can heal and recover whether this is mentally, physically or both. I have a holistic practice that not only helps your mental wellbeing but can address your physical health as well. I am Licensed Professional Counselor and Functional Medicine Practitioner. I can address your overall wellbeing not just your mental health. I am a certified EMDR (eye movement, desensitization and reprocessing) therapist and use other types of therapy to help.
(469) 844-4921 View (469) 844-4921
Photo of Zachary Willis, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Zachary Willis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sachse, TX 75048
Hello! My name is Zachary Willis, but I often go by Zach. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate supervised by Jeanie Bohall MMFT, LMFT-S, LPC. I work with individuals, couples, and families both in-person and virtually for a variety of issues. I have worked with individuals with depression and anxiety and with couples and families in connection and communication. I have worked with parents and teenagers for over a decade and enjoy working with clients from every demographic. My passion is helping families and individuals resolve issues, meet their need, help them succeed in their goals.
Hello! My name is Zachary Willis, but I often go by Zach. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate supervised by Jeanie Bohall MMFT, LMFT-S, LPC. I work with individuals, couples, and families both in-person and virtually for a variety of issues. I have worked with individuals with depression and anxiety and with couples and families in connection and communication. I have worked with parents and teenagers for over a decade and enjoy working with clients from every demographic. My passion is helping families and individuals resolve issues, meet their need, help them succeed in their goals.
(972) 426-8527 View (972) 426-8527
Photo of Brandi Garza - Ellie Mental Health of Wylie Texas, LCSW, LMFT, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellie Mental Health of Wylie Texas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Sachse, TX 75048
Ellie Mental Health in Wylie, Texas isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
Ellie Mental Health in Wylie, Texas isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
(972) 778-6860 View (972) 778-6860
Photo of Rayven Peck, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rayven Peck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sachse, TX 75048
I believe every person deserves to live their best life. That looks different for each person in every walk of life. There are times in life when things can get really difficult and it feels like your head is under water. I work with those struggling in life's day to day struggles, some of which included depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and more. I want to walk along side you and create a safe space so we can work together in your healing.
I believe every person deserves to live their best life. That looks different for each person in every walk of life. There are times in life when things can get really difficult and it feels like your head is under water. I work with those struggling in life's day to day struggles, some of which included depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and more. I want to walk along side you and create a safe space so we can work together in your healing.
(972) 325-7359 View (972) 325-7359
Photo of Cate Rossio, LPC-A
Cate Rossio
LPC Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sachse, TX 75048
Finding a counselor to support you in your healing journey can be overwhelming. There are so many to choose from, and it can be hard to know what you need. Whether you are looking for support for your child, adolescent, or yourself, I aim to provide you with a nonjudgmental, empathic, and safe environment to explore your needs and goals. I am passionate about helping my clients bring joy and connection back into their lives.
Finding a counselor to support you in your healing journey can be overwhelming. There are so many to choose from, and it can be hard to know what you need. Whether you are looking for support for your child, adolescent, or yourself, I aim to provide you with a nonjudgmental, empathic, and safe environment to explore your needs and goals. I am passionate about helping my clients bring joy and connection back into their lives.
(214) 307-6596 View (214) 307-6596
Photo of Cynthia Malnar Jones, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Malnar Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sachse, TX 75048
Counseling provides a safe space for clients to process their thoughts and emotions. I am passionate about building rapport with individuals, identifying their strengths, and encouraging them in the healing process to help them reach their true selves. My goal as a therapist is to assist clients in gaining insight into their lives to initiate change.
Counseling provides a safe space for clients to process their thoughts and emotions. I am passionate about building rapport with individuals, identifying their strengths, and encouraging them in the healing process to help them reach their true selves. My goal as a therapist is to assist clients in gaining insight into their lives to initiate change.
(972) 433-5257 View (972) 433-5257
Photo of Deborah Delay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Delay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sachse, TX 75048
Are you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues or other issues that are robbing you of life satisfaction and enjoyment? Your on-demand lifestyle requires an on-demand solution; get to the heart of the matter, and get on with your day. Working with a therapist and wellness coach can maximize your chances of feeling better, increase motivation and build stronger relationships. My passion is to inspire people to achieve positive personal development/change, enhance interpersonal relationships and utilize personal strengths. "You must make a choice to take a chance or nothing will ever change." -Z Zigler
Are you are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues or other issues that are robbing you of life satisfaction and enjoyment? Your on-demand lifestyle requires an on-demand solution; get to the heart of the matter, and get on with your day. Working with a therapist and wellness coach can maximize your chances of feeling better, increase motivation and build stronger relationships. My passion is to inspire people to achieve positive personal development/change, enhance interpersonal relationships and utilize personal strengths. "You must make a choice to take a chance or nothing will ever change." -Z Zigler
(469) 557-2247 View (469) 557-2247

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Liz Bandy, LCSW
Liz Bandy
LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75081
My goals are to support clients in the challenges that they face and help them set attainable goals. I have worked in the mental health field for 12 years in a different number of roles. My specialty is working with individuals with dual-diagnosis, traumatic experience, and adoption. I have experience working with diverse populations from different cultural backgrounds and beliefs systems.
My goals are to support clients in the challenges that they face and help them set attainable goals. I have worked in the mental health field for 12 years in a different number of roles. My specialty is working with individuals with dual-diagnosis, traumatic experience, and adoption. I have experience working with diverse populations from different cultural backgrounds and beliefs systems.
(214) 892-2115 View (214) 892-2115
Photo of Denise Humphrey - Creating Harmony, Inc, PhD, Psychologist
Creating Harmony, Inc
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
Specialty areas include ADD/ADHD, abandonment, adoption, body dysmorphic disorder, communication, depression, relationships, family of origin issues, and normal conflict resolutions.
IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP SUFFERING? I specialize in couples/marital counseling and will help expedite resolution whether you are married, single, straight, gay, or lesbian. I also befriend people struggling in a mixed-orientation marriage, where one partner is gay and the other is straight. My ongoing mission is to create a therapeutic environment that is comfortable and non-threatening, a safe sanctuary for expressing inner feelings and disclosing personal problems for both individuals and couples. I understand that each situation is unique and therefore, treatment is tailored accordingly.
Specialty areas include ADD/ADHD, abandonment, adoption, body dysmorphic disorder, communication, depression, relationships, family of origin issues, and normal conflict resolutions.
IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP SUFFERING? I specialize in couples/marital counseling and will help expedite resolution whether you are married, single, straight, gay, or lesbian. I also befriend people struggling in a mixed-orientation marriage, where one partner is gay and the other is straight. My ongoing mission is to create a therapeutic environment that is comfortable and non-threatening, a safe sanctuary for expressing inner feelings and disclosing personal problems for both individuals and couples. I understand that each situation is unique and therefore, treatment is tailored accordingly.
(972) 316-9954 View (972) 316-9954
Photo of Kristina M. Stephens, MA, LPC, RPT, Counselor
Kristina M. Stephens
Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080
PLAY THERAPY (age 2 & up!), FAMILIES, COUPLES (marital, pre marital, other) or INDIVIDUALS! I have worked with children and families for 13+ years. I taught in the public schools for 6 years before leaving the classroom to work with children and families in a more intimate, counseling setting. As a registered play therapist, I work with young clients who are having issues in school as well as home. I have training on attachment and bonding issues and frequently work with adoption triad cases (birth families, adoptive families, and adoptees). My clients range in age 2-adulthood!
PLAY THERAPY (age 2 & up!), FAMILIES, COUPLES (marital, pre marital, other) or INDIVIDUALS! I have worked with children and families for 13+ years. I taught in the public schools for 6 years before leaving the classroom to work with children and families in a more intimate, counseling setting. As a registered play therapist, I work with young clients who are having issues in school as well as home. I have training on attachment and bonding issues and frequently work with adoption triad cases (birth families, adoptive families, and adoptees). My clients range in age 2-adulthood!
(469) 908-3440 View (469) 908-3440
Photo of Katy Perkins Coveney, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Perkins Coveney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
I have extensive experience with intimate partner violence/narcissistic abuse recovery, eating disorders, overachievers who are exhausted and want big change, traditionally marginalized people (BIPOC/LGBTQ/etc), family secrets, adoption/foster care, pre & post adoption search/reunion, DNA discoveries, identity distress, and overlapping issues.
Virtual services available CO/FL/NC/TX/VA, in-person TX/NC. Regardless of family structure, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, race, or other minority status, you are welcome. People who come to me are often asking themselves: What's wrong with me? Who am I/Where did I come from? Is what happened to me abuse? Why did my family keep this secret? Why can't I get over 'it'? What do I do, now that I know the truth? I've spent my life overachieving, so why don't I feel better yet? Maybe I'm making a big deal out of nothing.
I have extensive experience with intimate partner violence/narcissistic abuse recovery, eating disorders, overachievers who are exhausted and want big change, traditionally marginalized people (BIPOC/LGBTQ/etc), family secrets, adoption/foster care, pre & post adoption search/reunion, DNA discoveries, identity distress, and overlapping issues.
Virtual services available CO/FL/NC/TX/VA, in-person TX/NC. Regardless of family structure, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, race, or other minority status, you are welcome. People who come to me are often asking themselves: What's wrong with me? Who am I/Where did I come from? Is what happened to me abuse? Why did my family keep this secret? Why can't I get over 'it'? What do I do, now that I know the truth? I've spent my life overachieving, so why don't I feel better yet? Maybe I'm making a big deal out of nothing.
(910) 415-1521 View (910) 415-1521
Photo of Doreen Simonian, MA, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Doreen Simonian
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
My previous work in adoption has also given me insight into struggles that couples face building their families, and the various paths this process can take.
Life can often be hard and unexpected challenges can happen to anyone. I believe that having the support of someone in our corner can help us discover our unique qualities so we can emerge from difficulties stronger than we ever thought possible. I will provide a compassionate and supportive environment while we embark on your journey of growth and healing. Taking this first step is often very difficult and I invite you to contact me and see if counseling is right for you and if I would be a good fit for your needs.
My previous work in adoption has also given me insight into struggles that couples face building their families, and the various paths this process can take.
Life can often be hard and unexpected challenges can happen to anyone. I believe that having the support of someone in our corner can help us discover our unique qualities so we can emerge from difficulties stronger than we ever thought possible. I will provide a compassionate and supportive environment while we embark on your journey of growth and healing. Taking this first step is often very difficult and I invite you to contact me and see if counseling is right for you and if I would be a good fit for your needs.
(972) 441-7066 View (972) 441-7066
Photo of Lauren Butcher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Butcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wylie, TX 75098
I see clients with a variety of problems, including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, mood dysregulation, ADHD, abuse (narcissistic, sexual, emotional, spiritual, childhood), family conflict, grief/loss, disconnection, family separation, adoption (adoptees, birth & ado parents), and EMDR, which is a proven effective therapy with long-lasting results.
Are you looking for a down to earth therapist that’s able to help you navigate life’s challenges? With 17+ years of experience, I have helped clients from all walks of life through their darkest moments and emerge stronger and more resilient. I believe in the power of collaborative therapy and tailer my approach to the needs of each client. Many clients come feeling burnt out from negative experiences or ineffective therapy in the past and often achieve significant relief from symptoms within a brief amount of time. Whether you are facing adversity or seeking personal growth, I will walk with you and support you through it.
I see clients with a variety of problems, including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, mood dysregulation, ADHD, abuse (narcissistic, sexual, emotional, spiritual, childhood), family conflict, grief/loss, disconnection, family separation, adoption (adoptees, birth & ado parents), and EMDR, which is a proven effective therapy with long-lasting results.
Are you looking for a down to earth therapist that’s able to help you navigate life’s challenges? With 17+ years of experience, I have helped clients from all walks of life through their darkest moments and emerge stronger and more resilient. I believe in the power of collaborative therapy and tailer my approach to the needs of each client. Many clients come feeling burnt out from negative experiences or ineffective therapy in the past and often achieve significant relief from symptoms within a brief amount of time. Whether you are facing adversity or seeking personal growth, I will walk with you and support you through it.
(972) 975-9921 View (972) 975-9921
Photo of Misty Annette Diaz - M.A.D. Therapy, LLC, USN Ret, LMFT, MAMFT, RYT-200, PhD edu, Marriage & Family Therapist
M.A.D. Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, USN Ret, LMFT, MAMFT, RYT-200, PhD edu
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75238
Niches with training: Suicidality and high-risk, LGBTQIA+, Military, Adoption.
Welcome to MAD Therapy, LLC. I am Misty Annette Diaz and I’m here to help. Congratulations on taking this step for yourself. You are no longer alone because I am here to join you. You found me and now I will help guide you out of survival mode and into the present moment. I’ll be your co-pilot…let me know where you want to go and we will create your best life. As a doctoral student, helping relationships thrive is my ultimate goal. The most important relationship we have is with ourself so let’s make that one full of love. I look forward to working with you. Stay safe and talk soon. Namaste
Niches with training: Suicidality and high-risk, LGBTQIA+, Military, Adoption.
Welcome to MAD Therapy, LLC. I am Misty Annette Diaz and I’m here to help. Congratulations on taking this step for yourself. You are no longer alone because I am here to join you. You found me and now I will help guide you out of survival mode and into the present moment. I’ll be your co-pilot…let me know where you want to go and we will create your best life. As a doctoral student, helping relationships thrive is my ultimate goal. The most important relationship we have is with ourself so let’s make that one full of love. I look forward to working with you. Stay safe and talk soon. Namaste
(214) 225-6598 View (214) 225-6598
Photo of Brandy Smith - Rockwall Heath Counseling , LMSW, LPC, BCBC, MA, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rockwall Heath Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMSW, LPC, BCBC, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087
Our focus areas: Narcissism & abuse, play facilitated therapy, infertility, child & teen behavior & self-control issues, grief & loss, adult & teen ADD/ADHD, trauma, teen issues, blended families/divorce & post-divorce care, family reunification, couples counseling: in crisis, pre-marital, communication & infidelity, & adoption.
At Rockwall Heath Counseling, our Dallas area clients know we provide a superior level of care & therapeutic excellence in areas that promote healing, growth & confidence in your counseling process. Our team treats grief & loss, neurodivergence/ADHD, marriage counseling, infidelity, infertility, narcissistic & abusive relationships, play therapy, blended & divorced families, family reunification, with over 35+ specialties & certifications and a 60+ combined years of counseling experience. Counseling ages 6 through adult, we are committed to your growth, change & healing. Change is hard but change is what we do.
Our focus areas: Narcissism & abuse, play facilitated therapy, infertility, child & teen behavior & self-control issues, grief & loss, adult & teen ADD/ADHD, trauma, teen issues, blended families/divorce & post-divorce care, family reunification, couples counseling: in crisis, pre-marital, communication & infidelity, & adoption.
At Rockwall Heath Counseling, our Dallas area clients know we provide a superior level of care & therapeutic excellence in areas that promote healing, growth & confidence in your counseling process. Our team treats grief & loss, neurodivergence/ADHD, marriage counseling, infidelity, infertility, narcissistic & abusive relationships, play therapy, blended & divorced families, family reunification, with over 35+ specialties & certifications and a 60+ combined years of counseling experience. Counseling ages 6 through adult, we are committed to your growth, change & healing. Change is hard but change is what we do.
(214) 833-9209 View (214) 833-9209
Photo of Maria LaVorgna-Smith, PhD MFT, LPC-S, ATR-BC, ATCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria LaVorgna-Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD MFT, LPC-S, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
I am a seasoned professional who has the privilege to be in private practice for over 20 years, specializing in family therapy and the creative arts to resolve conflicts and dilemmas. As a credentialed and registered art therapist, I have a passion for my field helping people to open-up to their creativity. I receive tremendous joy working with children, women, couples and families as trained in my doctorate of marriage and family therapy. Key issues include: ADHD, Autism Spectrum, couples therapy, children of divorce, adoption issues, parenting issues, transgender and identity, spirituality, mood disorder, anxiety and depression.
I am a seasoned professional who has the privilege to be in private practice for over 20 years, specializing in family therapy and the creative arts to resolve conflicts and dilemmas. As a credentialed and registered art therapist, I have a passion for my field helping people to open-up to their creativity. I receive tremendous joy working with children, women, couples and families as trained in my doctorate of marriage and family therapy. Key issues include: ADHD, Autism Spectrum, couples therapy, children of divorce, adoption issues, parenting issues, transgender and identity, spirituality, mood disorder, anxiety and depression.
(469) 416-4354 View (469) 416-4354
Photo of Nancy Kolo, LMFT, LPC-S, RPTS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Kolo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC-S, RPTS
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
I provide Telemental Health sessions for Individuals, Couples, and Families struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, adoption, and grief and loss to all genders and lifestyles for adults, teens, and children older than 8 years of age.
I work with individuals, couples, and families. My approach begins with creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship in order to identify your strengths, prioritize your goals, reflect on your patterns and relationships that are not working well, explore your feelings and to find alternative ways to get your needs met. Collaboratively, we will work on identifying and strengthening your inner self. The goal is to assist you to achieve a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life with enriching relationships.
I provide Telemental Health sessions for Individuals, Couples, and Families struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, adoption, and grief and loss to all genders and lifestyles for adults, teens, and children older than 8 years of age.
I work with individuals, couples, and families. My approach begins with creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship in order to identify your strengths, prioritize your goals, reflect on your patterns and relationships that are not working well, explore your feelings and to find alternative ways to get your needs met. Collaboratively, we will work on identifying and strengthening your inner self. The goal is to assist you to achieve a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life with enriching relationships.
(916) 237-9202 View (916) 237-9202
Photo of Marisol Garcia - Marisol Garcia, MA, LPC-S, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marisol Garcia, MA, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75243
Welcome! My name is Marisol and I am a bilingual therapist who specializes in children, adolescent, and family therapy. I work with the following issues: anxiety, depression, divorce, adoption issues, grief, behavioral issues and family conflict.
Welcome! My name is Marisol and I am a bilingual therapist who specializes in children, adolescent, and family therapy. I work with the following issues: anxiety, depression, divorce, adoption issues, grief, behavioral issues and family conflict.
(214) 960-2427 View (214) 960-2427
Photo of Allison Kelt Salazar, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Kelt Salazar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Wylie, TX 75098  (Online Only)
My interest areas include career planning and transitions, stress & coping, adoption, affective disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, domestic violence, grief, adjustment, and coping with medical issues, and personal development.
My goal as a Counselor is to empower and inspire my clients to live a life that is authentic and fulfilling. I believe that everyone has the potential to create positive change in their lives, and I am here to support you on your journey towards personal growth and transformation. My degree is a MS in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M University. I love how large and diverse Texas is and I am doing all telehealth sessions now to make sure Texans receive help in all corners of the state.
My interest areas include career planning and transitions, stress & coping, adoption, affective disorders, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, domestic violence, grief, adjustment, and coping with medical issues, and personal development.
My goal as a Counselor is to empower and inspire my clients to live a life that is authentic and fulfilling. I believe that everyone has the potential to create positive change in their lives, and I am here to support you on your journey towards personal growth and transformation. My degree is a MS in Counseling Psychology from Texas A&M University. I love how large and diverse Texas is and I am doing all telehealth sessions now to make sure Texans receive help in all corners of the state.
(972) 330-4815 View (972) 330-4815

See more therapy options for Sachse

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.