Adoption Therapists in West University Place, TX
![Photo of Philip Buchanan Young, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0bb6b444-1177-4ea1-b39a-b51aa9839a71/2/320x400.jpeg)
Philip Buchanan Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West University Place, TX 77005
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.
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.
![Photo of Lynn Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a949c983-9408-4a46-b051-752ae5ac3a6b/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have counseled children and parents for twenty-eight years while also enjoying individual adult work. My experience encompasses private practice as well as agencies and hospitals, including DePelchin Children's Center and Texas Children's Hospital. In addition, I have supervised beginning social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Over the years, I have held faculty positions at Baylor College of Medicine and Smith College School for Social Work. My practice has included all facets of children's developmental and emotional concerns. Currently a large portion of my practice focuses on children's anxiety, depression, OCD, and divorce related issues.
I have counseled children and parents for twenty-eight years while also enjoying individual adult work. My experience encompasses private practice as well as agencies and hospitals, including DePelchin Children's Center and Texas Children's Hospital. In addition, I have supervised beginning social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists. Over the years, I have held faculty positions at Baylor College of Medicine and Smith College School for Social Work. My practice has included all facets of children's developmental and emotional concerns. Currently a large portion of my practice focuses on children's anxiety, depression, OCD, and divorce related issues.
![Photo of Erin R Whitney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5221b2c7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin R Whitney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West University Place, TX 77005
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
Only the strongest and most courageous know when it is time to get help. Together we can work through nearly any difficulty. I personalize my counseling and coaching practices based on your or your family's needs, using effective, yet gentle and powerful, proven methods. With 25+ years in practice working with people who have depression, anxiety, OCD, childhood/teen behavioral concerns, ADHD, trauma, autism spectrum disorders, and adjustments to significant life changes, I have the experience to meet your needs . Not sure if counseling or coaching is right for you? Please call me for a free consultation. Warmest regards, Erin
![Photo of Cessi Elizabeth Sutter, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caefcd8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Cessi Elizabeth Sutter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
West University Place, TX 77005
I am a bilingual English and Spanish speaking therapist that provides counseling and employment services. I offer individual, group, family, and couples therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Typical issues that are worked on in counseling include: depression, anxiety, anger management, domestic violence, grief and trauma, communication, identity, and immigrant issues. For those individuals seeking employment and career coaching, assistance is provided to them in helping them obtain a job or accomplish their professional goals. All services are provided in both English and Spanish.
I am a bilingual English and Spanish speaking therapist that provides counseling and employment services. I offer individual, group, family, and couples therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Typical issues that are worked on in counseling include: depression, anxiety, anger management, domestic violence, grief and trauma, communication, identity, and immigrant issues. For those individuals seeking employment and career coaching, assistance is provided to them in helping them obtain a job or accomplish their professional goals. All services are provided in both English and Spanish.
![Photo of Diane N Roche, PhD, APIT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a1698bf-460e-4ead-8427-5ba6f35c3c83/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Roche & her associates specialize in treating and supporting high-level professionals and their families who insist on individualized and services of singular quality. You will experience a sophisticated and integrative approach suited to families with high pressure careers and or a highly demanding childhood/adolescence. We specialize in relationships, anxiety/stress/pressure, ADHD, and will support you to balance the demands of life. Adults, teens, kids, families, & couples are treated by well-trained professionals in a comfortable, modern space. Made-to-measure Psychological Evaluations can be provided if indicated.
Dr. Roche & her associates specialize in treating and supporting high-level professionals and their families who insist on individualized and services of singular quality. You will experience a sophisticated and integrative approach suited to families with high pressure careers and or a highly demanding childhood/adolescence. We specialize in relationships, anxiety/stress/pressure, ADHD, and will support you to balance the demands of life. Adults, teens, kids, families, & couples are treated by well-trained professionals in a comfortable, modern space. Made-to-measure Psychological Evaluations can be provided if indicated.
![Photo of Krisztina Petho-Robertson, MEd, LPC, CIMHP, ICCP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4be68e0d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Krisztina Petho-Robertson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CIMHP, ICCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005
Now accepting new clients! My primary therapeutic goal is to approach each individual in a unique way. While helping clients develop healthy coping strategies and achieve personal growth and positive change, I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping clients in coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, stress, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, domestic violence, addictions, bipolar disorders, and more. I see pre-teens, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with behavioral, emotional, or relational issues.
Now accepting new clients! My primary therapeutic goal is to approach each individual in a unique way. While helping clients develop healthy coping strategies and achieve personal growth and positive change, I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping clients in coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, stress, relationship difficulties, divorce, parenting, grief and loss, abuse and neglect, domestic violence, addictions, bipolar disorders, and more. I see pre-teens, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with behavioral, emotional, or relational issues.
![Photo of Dr. Marcia J. Lindsey - Dr. Marcia Lindsey•Stress•OCD•Sleep•Neurofeedback, PsyD, MSW, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3200a693-11c2-43da-aa3b-386c2dd4efe8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marcia Lindsey•Stress•OCD•Sleep•Neurofeedback
Psychologist, PsyD, MSW
Verified Verified
West University Place, TX 77005
Are you constantly worried? Do you freeze when making decisions? Does your mental load keep you tossing and turning at night? Do you experience intrusive or unwanted thoughts? Do you feel compelled to perform certain behaviors or rituals? Have you tried regular talk therapy without success? Neurofeedback, EMDR, CBT, Touchpoints, Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy, and other research-based therapies can help you achieve tangible relief. You can utilize the strengths of your brain to address emotional difficulties, including challenges that are biologically based or driven by traumatic experiences. Practical tools for sustained healing.
Are you constantly worried? Do you freeze when making decisions? Does your mental load keep you tossing and turning at night? Do you experience intrusive or unwanted thoughts? Do you feel compelled to perform certain behaviors or rituals? Have you tried regular talk therapy without success? Neurofeedback, EMDR, CBT, Touchpoints, Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy, and other research-based therapies can help you achieve tangible relief. You can utilize the strengths of your brain to address emotional difficulties, including challenges that are biologically based or driven by traumatic experiences. Practical tools for sustained healing.
![Photo of Michelle Salzman, MA, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5957340-24ee-49c6-a5c2-15c4df9fde6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Salzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005 (Online Only)
Acting like everything is okay but secretly falling apart? Need change? I can help. I work with women and men ages 18 & up. My specialties include anxiety, depression, gaslighting, spiritual abuse, divorce recovery, chronic illness/pain, & hormonal imbalance. I use EMDR, DBT and PRT interventions. Our sessions would be online only. I can see you wherever you are in Texas. Contact me today! I am available for supervision of motivated LPC-A's looking for a quality supervisor in the state of Texas. I offer Christian counseling/ supervision when requested. Paneled with BCBS- PPO, Cigna, UHC, and Aetna.
Acting like everything is okay but secretly falling apart? Need change? I can help. I work with women and men ages 18 & up. My specialties include anxiety, depression, gaslighting, spiritual abuse, divorce recovery, chronic illness/pain, & hormonal imbalance. I use EMDR, DBT and PRT interventions. Our sessions would be online only. I can see you wherever you are in Texas. Contact me today! I am available for supervision of motivated LPC-A's looking for a quality supervisor in the state of Texas. I offer Christian counseling/ supervision when requested. Paneled with BCBS- PPO, Cigna, UHC, and Aetna.
![Photo of Jennifer Murphy Hall, MAMFC, LPC, S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5136d791-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Murphy Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFC, LPC, S
Verified Verified
West University Place, TX 77005
Suffering is a real thing in this world, such things as grief, depression, addiction, social skills, communication, parenting, dating, marriage, identify and other issues that can cripple a person. I offer professionally competent Biblically sound counseling for those that may be struggling and I know that reaching out for help is hard and telling your story to someone you don't even know can be scary and I completely understand that. I want to encourage you to take a step in faith and ask for help. Time will me will be safe, confidential and filled with purpose.
Suffering is a real thing in this world, such things as grief, depression, addiction, social skills, communication, parenting, dating, marriage, identify and other issues that can cripple a person. I offer professionally competent Biblically sound counseling for those that may be struggling and I know that reaching out for help is hard and telling your story to someone you don't even know can be scary and I completely understand that. I want to encourage you to take a step in faith and ask for help. Time will me will be safe, confidential and filled with purpose.
![Photo of Ivan Navarro, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91b26821-83a4-46f8-ac15-f56ffd04520c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ivan Navarro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West University Place, TX 77005
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas eager to help you with any difficulty that you may be facing. In my professional experience, I have provided mental health counseling to persons of all ages with a wide range of difficulties and issues. My area of expertise and passion is providing you with the most effective counseling sessions possible.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas eager to help you with any difficulty that you may be facing. In my professional experience, I have provided mental health counseling to persons of all ages with a wide range of difficulties and issues. My area of expertise and passion is providing you with the most effective counseling sessions possible.
![Photo of Christie Marie Melonson, MA, LPC-S, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b78455c9-ca6f-4786-8982-6b4b451fbee5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christie Marie Melonson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005
My ideal client is anyone who is eager to make changes toward a healthier and more fulfilling life emotionally, mentally, physically, career wise or spiritually. My therapeutic approach is based on empowering each client I work with and helping them to use inner resources as well as the resources around them. I adjust my techniques and approaches to the needs of each client and pride myself on practicing cultural flexibility. I understand that clients want responsiveness, respect, knowledge, resources, and a therapist who can empathize. Clients want to be truly heard. I am here to listen and to facilitate your healing.
My ideal client is anyone who is eager to make changes toward a healthier and more fulfilling life emotionally, mentally, physically, career wise or spiritually. My therapeutic approach is based on empowering each client I work with and helping them to use inner resources as well as the resources around them. I adjust my techniques and approaches to the needs of each client and pride myself on practicing cultural flexibility. I understand that clients want responsiveness, respect, knowledge, resources, and a therapist who can empathize. Clients want to be truly heard. I am here to listen and to facilitate your healing.
15 Second Videos
Michelle Salzman
Ivan Navarro
Laura Summerhill
![Photo of Jennifer Lancaster, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c74d7a7-18c1-4e0a-9354-2d7cf4d25876/5/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Lancaster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005
Healing is about so much more than managing symptoms & learning coping skills. You deserve to move beyond the bandaid approach to find deeper, lasting healing by addressing the root causes and unresolved trauma at the source of your pain. Our approach centers on the belief that each person possesses an innate healing wisdom, and that the therapeutic relationship is a powerful catalyst for change. By valuing genuine connection, meeting you where you're at, and using creative and innovative therapies, the process becomes a collaborative and transformational experience that helps you build a life filled with purpose and authenticity.
Healing is about so much more than managing symptoms & learning coping skills. You deserve to move beyond the bandaid approach to find deeper, lasting healing by addressing the root causes and unresolved trauma at the source of your pain. Our approach centers on the belief that each person possesses an innate healing wisdom, and that the therapeutic relationship is a powerful catalyst for change. By valuing genuine connection, meeting you where you're at, and using creative and innovative therapies, the process becomes a collaborative and transformational experience that helps you build a life filled with purpose and authenticity.
![Photo of Gina Evans - Total Wellness Assessment & Counseling Center, PhD, LPA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94c0e6cc-16bf-47cb-a741-fec758499f4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Total Wellness Assessment & Counseling Center
Psychologist, PhD, LPA, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
West University Place, TX 77005
Our treatment approach is based on over 20 years of providing testing and treatment services. In every case, our primary treatment goal is to help clients develop the necessary skills to improve health, academic performance, day-to-day functioning and sense of well-being and self-efficacy. We make accessing our services easy by having two convenient locations, evening and weekend hours, and providing virtual and in office services (3801 Kirby Dr. Suite 311 Houston, TX 77098 and 8820 Will Clayton Parkway Suite A Humble, TX 77338).
Our treatment approach is based on over 20 years of providing testing and treatment services. In every case, our primary treatment goal is to help clients develop the necessary skills to improve health, academic performance, day-to-day functioning and sense of well-being and self-efficacy. We make accessing our services easy by having two convenient locations, evening and weekend hours, and providing virtual and in office services (3801 Kirby Dr. Suite 311 Houston, TX 77098 and 8820 Will Clayton Parkway Suite A Humble, TX 77338).
![Photo of Dr. Laura Summerhill, PhD, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a7b616c-1a29-4109-be86-ffce1e8b6682/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Laura Summerhill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
West University Place, TX 77005
Every morning is the same. You wake panicked, stomach in knots, thinking about all the things you were supposed to finish yesterday but didn’t. And today’s to-do list makes you wonder if you’ll ever dig yourself out of this hole. You feel like you’re letting everyone down, especially yourself. “How,” you wonder, “can other people get things done with such ease and it be so difficult for me?” Even projects that excite you are hard to start and nearly impossible to finish. The shame hurts. Life would be much easier if you could just focus, but you don’t know how. You constantly beat yourself up. It's getting old.
Every morning is the same. You wake panicked, stomach in knots, thinking about all the things you were supposed to finish yesterday but didn’t. And today’s to-do list makes you wonder if you’ll ever dig yourself out of this hole. You feel like you’re letting everyone down, especially yourself. “How,” you wonder, “can other people get things done with such ease and it be so difficult for me?” Even projects that excite you are hard to start and nearly impossible to finish. The shame hurts. Life would be much easier if you could just focus, but you don’t know how. You constantly beat yourself up. It's getting old.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Erin Andrews, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/183eb7c1-8e62-4a73-9e16-2bf29973edd5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Erin Andrews
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005 (Online Only)
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.
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.
![Photo of Patience Simms, LPC, LMFT-A, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca6ee582-fe75-4a39-8bec-7b4e1bd93f1a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patience Simms
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT-A, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005
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.
![Photo of Erik Boie - Capstone Connect-Counseling & Trauma Services, LICSW, LCSW-S, EMDR, Trained, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/481c905c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jamie M Schneider, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/753b12db-e7d7-426e-8def-eae28c196db3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jamie M Schneider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77056
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.
![Photo of Nicole Savage, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be0bd637-34b1-4f0b-a7c2-effd7eb9736c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Savage
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027 (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.
![Photo of Johanna Pule, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46af92b4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over 20 years of experience working with with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. I have a special interest in working with children and adolecents. I take an individualized, holistic approach with each of my clients, using a mind-body-spirit approach along with the creative arts, symbolism and narrative techniques to encourage the expression of feelings. I am especially skilled at working with children and adolescents who have a history of complex trauma, adoption or are having difficulty adjusting following a significant life event such as divorce.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have over 20 years of experience working with with children, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings. I have a special interest in working with children and adolecents. I take an individualized, holistic approach with each of my clients, using a mind-body-spirit approach along with the creative arts, symbolism and narrative techniques to encourage the expression of feelings. I am especially skilled at working with children and adolescents who have a history of complex trauma, adoption or are having difficulty adjusting following a significant life event such as divorce.
See more therapy options for West University Place
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for West University Place
- Bellaire
- Fresno
- Friendswood
- Houston
- Manvel
- Missouri City
- Pasadena
- Pearland
- Richmond
- Stafford
- Sugar Land
- Webster
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.