Adoption Therapists in Annandale, VA

Photo of Mari J Itzkowitz, LCSW, TAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mari J Itzkowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TAC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
I am also a trained Adoption Competent Therapist.
Everyone experiences loss. Seldom do we allow ourselves to fully experience loss or it's impact. When someone dies, we change jobs, or even have a child, there is loss. When we choose to address these losses, past or present, we can begin to heal, and with healing comes unlimited possibility. I work with families/individuals/children and the impact family dynamics have on their lives; adoptees and their families as they deal their losses; bereaved individuals and groups after the death of a loved one; transitional loss and role adjustment included "empty nest"; corporate downsizing; career counseling; and relationship issues.
I am also a trained Adoption Competent Therapist.
Everyone experiences loss. Seldom do we allow ourselves to fully experience loss or it's impact. When someone dies, we change jobs, or even have a child, there is loss. When we choose to address these losses, past or present, we can begin to heal, and with healing comes unlimited possibility. I work with families/individuals/children and the impact family dynamics have on their lives; adoptees and their families as they deal their losses; bereaved individuals and groups after the death of a loved one; transitional loss and role adjustment included "empty nest"; corporate downsizing; career counseling; and relationship issues.
(703) 468-8884 View (703) 468-8884
Photo of Elizabeth Lopez-Cardona, LPC, LMFT, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Lopez-Cardona
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist practicing in the northern Virginia/Metropolitan DC region for over 25 years. I am a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist. My emphasis and training includes the treatment of and consultation for: depression, relationship difficulties, infidelity, anxiety, adoption, parenting issues, past trauma and gender identity questioning . I have extensive experience assisting clients cope with acculturation issues and challenges commonly faced by immigrant populations. I would love to discuss with you different ways that I could help you achieve your life goals.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist practicing in the northern Virginia/Metropolitan DC region for over 25 years. I am a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist. My emphasis and training includes the treatment of and consultation for: depression, relationship difficulties, infidelity, anxiety, adoption, parenting issues, past trauma and gender identity questioning . I have extensive experience assisting clients cope with acculturation issues and challenges commonly faced by immigrant populations. I would love to discuss with you different ways that I could help you achieve your life goals.
(703) 828-0502 View (703) 828-0502
Photo of Nicole Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
With a profound commitment to promoting healing and growth, I am Nikki Smith, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience in the mental health field. My journey began with a decade dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma in foster care and adoption settings at my local social services agency. This foundational experience gave me a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma and its impact on individuals and families.
With a profound commitment to promoting healing and growth, I am Nikki Smith, a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 16 years of experience in the mental health field. My journey began with a decade dedicated to working with children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma in foster care and adoption settings at my local social services agency. This foundational experience gave me a deep understanding of the complexities of trauma and its impact on individuals and families.
(434) 361-4889 View (434) 361-4889
Photo of Christine Salo-Sokolowski, LPC, CPDPE, CPDCE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Salo-Sokolowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPDPE, CPDCE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
Do you experience negative or racing thoughts, anxious, depressed feelings or mood swings? Are your relationships hard? If you answered “yes” then we should talk. Improving quality of life through thought change, healthier coping skills, new perspectives and learning how to take control of interactions is what I do.
Do you experience negative or racing thoughts, anxious, depressed feelings or mood swings? Are your relationships hard? If you answered “yes” then we should talk. Improving quality of life through thought change, healthier coping skills, new perspectives and learning how to take control of interactions is what I do.
(571) 470-7285 View (571) 470-7285
Photo of Jennifer Barnes - Beacon Therapy and Wellness Center, LLC, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beacon Therapy and Wellness Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
I believe in an accepting, non-judgmental approach to meet you where you are in your journey through life. My goal is to understand your situation from your point of view. Using personality traits of empathy, compassion, and commitment allow me to help you gain insight to have a better understanding of yourself. This, in turn, helps you to accept yourself for who you are while motivating you to create change. My approach goes beyond listening and understanding. I want to teach you skills that can help you manage and problem solve independently. Empowering you towards self-advocacy is my goal in therapy.
I believe in an accepting, non-judgmental approach to meet you where you are in your journey through life. My goal is to understand your situation from your point of view. Using personality traits of empathy, compassion, and commitment allow me to help you gain insight to have a better understanding of yourself. This, in turn, helps you to accept yourself for who you are while motivating you to create change. My approach goes beyond listening and understanding. I want to teach you skills that can help you manage and problem solve independently. Empowering you towards self-advocacy is my goal in therapy.
(571) 350-0814 View (571) 350-0814
Photo of Louise Del Maestro - Open Heart Counseling, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Open Heart Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
If building understanding, trust and more loving relationships is your goal, then this attachment based mindful approach is the process for you. Imagine waking each day feeling more connected, more alive, and more secure in being your authentic self. It's easier than you think. One must only be willing to feel their repressed feelings. Are you or or your child operating with anxiety, OCD, adjustment disorders, addictions, recurrent or difficult behavior patterns? Go from striving to thriving and manifest positive outcomes. With cutting edge tools, you are able to let go of old behavior patterns and adopt new ones.
If building understanding, trust and more loving relationships is your goal, then this attachment based mindful approach is the process for you. Imagine waking each day feeling more connected, more alive, and more secure in being your authentic self. It's easier than you think. One must only be willing to feel their repressed feelings. Are you or or your child operating with anxiety, OCD, adjustment disorders, addictions, recurrent or difficult behavior patterns? Go from striving to thriving and manifest positive outcomes. With cutting edge tools, you are able to let go of old behavior patterns and adopt new ones.
(703) 348-9228 View (703) 348-9228
Photo of Deborah O'Brien, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
Are you or your family going through a tough time? Are behaviors or situations becoming unmanageable? In my office you will find a safe, nonjudgmental response to dealing with the complexities of your life. The aim is to address painful crisis and move toward developing coping strategies to increase peace & the happiness you deserve. My treatment approach is to help with solutions. Individual therapy, play therapy, parent support, and academic consultation is what I provide. In my practice I work with children, adolescents, and adults. There are several therapists in the office who can assist if I am booked.
Are you or your family going through a tough time? Are behaviors or situations becoming unmanageable? In my office you will find a safe, nonjudgmental response to dealing with the complexities of your life. The aim is to address painful crisis and move toward developing coping strategies to increase peace & the happiness you deserve. My treatment approach is to help with solutions. Individual therapy, play therapy, parent support, and academic consultation is what I provide. In my practice I work with children, adolescents, and adults. There are several therapists in the office who can assist if I am booked.
(703) 791-9908 View (703) 791-9908
Photo of Luann C Oliver - LuAnn C. Oliver, LCSW, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LuAnn C. Oliver, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
Are you feeling alone in your relationships? Do you love your partner, but can't seem to get along? Are you longing for a stronger sexual connection? Do you wonder if your partner still loves you? Have you lost one another through difficult life challenges? Has addiction, infidelity or other battles left you feeling you'll never recover? There is a way out. There is hope. I can help. I want your relationship to be full of love, friendship, meaningful sex, and lasting security. Give me a call and let's talk.
Are you feeling alone in your relationships? Do you love your partner, but can't seem to get along? Are you longing for a stronger sexual connection? Do you wonder if your partner still loves you? Have you lost one another through difficult life challenges? Has addiction, infidelity or other battles left you feeling you'll never recover? There is a way out. There is hope. I can help. I want your relationship to be full of love, friendship, meaningful sex, and lasting security. Give me a call and let's talk.
(703) 991-7301 View (703) 991-7301
Photo of Daniel Scrafford, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Scrafford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples in a relaxed, safe, and caring environment. People enter my office because they feel stuck or lost. Clients recognize that they are unhappy and often know what makes them unhappy, but they don't know how to change. Many people in these situations are feeling depressed, anxious, and may be involved with self-defeating behaviors. Together, we examine these issues with non-judgmental dialogue.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, families, and couples in a relaxed, safe, and caring environment. People enter my office because they feel stuck or lost. Clients recognize that they are unhappy and often know what makes them unhappy, but they don't know how to change. Many people in these situations are feeling depressed, anxious, and may be involved with self-defeating behaviors. Together, we examine these issues with non-judgmental dialogue.
(703) 596-2706 View (703) 596-2706
Photo of Lauren Smith-Papke, PhD, Psychologist
Lauren Smith-Papke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
I am a clinical psychologist, who enjoys working with adults across the lifespan in individual psychotherapy. I have worked with many different types of individuals in day treatment, community mental health, and counseling center settings; I have also worked at The Women's Center as a therapist and supervisor of graduate students for the past 9 years. I strive to understand each client as a complex individual, and work with the client to clarify the nature of their difficulties, identify strengths and resources, and engage together in the process of increased insight and change.
I am a clinical psychologist, who enjoys working with adults across the lifespan in individual psychotherapy. I have worked with many different types of individuals in day treatment, community mental health, and counseling center settings; I have also worked at The Women's Center as a therapist and supervisor of graduate students for the past 9 years. I strive to understand each client as a complex individual, and work with the client to clarify the nature of their difficulties, identify strengths and resources, and engage together in the process of increased insight and change.
(540) 268-0974 View (540) 268-0974
Photo of Rachel Rosenberg, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Rosenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
I believe everybody has a story and it is my intention to create a healing and safe space for you to tell yours. We all have learned ways of seeing and navigating the world. My hope is that through our work together, you discover and access the strategies and resilience to live and experience life optimally. I strongly value the therapeutic relationship as a means to work through difficulties and uncover your unique strengths. I am a strong proponent of using play and expressive therapies to help you learn more about your inner world & reach your therapeutic goals. I am also trained in EMDR & use that to inform my work with adults.
I believe everybody has a story and it is my intention to create a healing and safe space for you to tell yours. We all have learned ways of seeing and navigating the world. My hope is that through our work together, you discover and access the strategies and resilience to live and experience life optimally. I strongly value the therapeutic relationship as a means to work through difficulties and uncover your unique strengths. I am a strong proponent of using play and expressive therapies to help you learn more about your inner world & reach your therapeutic goals. I am also trained in EMDR & use that to inform my work with adults.
(703) 215-9243 View (703) 215-9243
Photo of Chun-Shin Taylor - Mending Hearts Academy, LLC, PhD, LCPC, NCC, ACS, Counselor
Mending Hearts Academy, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
Waitlist for new clients
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sexuality issues, and relationship issues? Have you ever been hurt your loved ones in any way that violates your right as a person, including infidelity, addiction, and all forms of violence? Have you ever hurt your loved ones in the same ways? I love to walk with your journey to redefine who you are as a wholesome person. I can help you become resilient and embrace yourself and your life in holistic ways. You will experience cutting-edge and holistic counseling approaches to find your answers to your finding your way to becoming a wholesome person again. Let's do this together!
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, sexuality issues, and relationship issues? Have you ever been hurt your loved ones in any way that violates your right as a person, including infidelity, addiction, and all forms of violence? Have you ever hurt your loved ones in the same ways? I love to walk with your journey to redefine who you are as a wholesome person. I can help you become resilient and embrace yourself and your life in holistic ways. You will experience cutting-edge and holistic counseling approaches to find your answers to your finding your way to becoming a wholesome person again. Let's do this together!
(410) 705-7375 View (410) 705-7375
Photo of Vanessa Durrant, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, RMT, RYT-, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Durrant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, RMT, RYT-
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
Are you or your child struggling at home, school, work, or in peer relationships? I specialize in helping people heal from any difficult situation, experience, or trauma. I'm here to support you into new insights and get you unstuck. I work with children, teens, and adults who are looking to find integrative and holistic methods to real mind-body healing. Anxiety, trauma, depression, perfectionism, grief, and life transitions. Together we will make sure that you take charge of your life in a way that helps you thrive. I especially love to blend ancient healing approaches with modern therapies for true somatic based healing.
Are you or your child struggling at home, school, work, or in peer relationships? I specialize in helping people heal from any difficult situation, experience, or trauma. I'm here to support you into new insights and get you unstuck. I work with children, teens, and adults who are looking to find integrative and holistic methods to real mind-body healing. Anxiety, trauma, depression, perfectionism, grief, and life transitions. Together we will make sure that you take charge of your life in a way that helps you thrive. I especially love to blend ancient healing approaches with modern therapies for true somatic based healing.
(571) 512-7496 View (571) 512-7496
Photo of Lila Heymann, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lila Heymann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Hello! I'm Lila, a licensed clinical social worker with 23 years of experience across various settings. My focus is on assisting individuals who often feel overwhelmed by teaching distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we'll collaborate on strategies to help you navigate your emotions effectively. Employing a holistic approach, we'll address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Additionally, I integrate mindfulness practices to foster a deeper connection with yourself. Whether you're grappling with challenging relationship dynamics or battling cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help!
Hello! I'm Lila, a licensed clinical social worker with 23 years of experience across various settings. My focus is on assisting individuals who often feel overwhelmed by teaching distress tolerance techniques and stress management skills. Together, we'll collaborate on strategies to help you navigate your emotions effectively. Employing a holistic approach, we'll address the needs of your mind, body, and spirit. Additionally, I integrate mindfulness practices to foster a deeper connection with yourself. Whether you're grappling with challenging relationship dynamics or battling cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to help!
(434) 474-2591 View (434) 474-2591
Photo of Elizabeth Kendall Kurt, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Kendall Kurt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
I am excited to start your journey toward a healthier self and I'm so glad that you're looking to make positive change in your life. I am passionate about helping others through their mental health struggles and have a solution-focused approach to therapy. I am here to listen and support you through your struggles while providing gentle guidance toward problem-solving. I have experience working with adolescents, families, and adults from many backgrounds. I have worked with addictions, trauma, family issues, LGBTQIA+ folks, anxiety, depression, and much more. I look forward to connecting with you soon!
I am excited to start your journey toward a healthier self and I'm so glad that you're looking to make positive change in your life. I am passionate about helping others through their mental health struggles and have a solution-focused approach to therapy. I am here to listen and support you through your struggles while providing gentle guidance toward problem-solving. I have experience working with adolescents, families, and adults from many backgrounds. I have worked with addictions, trauma, family issues, LGBTQIA+ folks, anxiety, depression, and much more. I look forward to connecting with you soon!
(434) 266-6531 View (434) 266-6531
Photo of Momilani Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Momilani Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Hello, I'm Momilani Williams, a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in the Mental Health field. My background includes advocacy in school settings, support for foster youth, and assisting military children and families. I specialize in aiding individuals overwhelmed by life's challenges or their emotions, guiding them towards positive processing. Together, we'll devise strategies to manage emotions and reconnect with your authentic self. Whether you're navigating complex relationship dynamics or grappling with anxiety and depression, I'm here to support you.
Hello, I'm Momilani Williams, a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience in the Mental Health field. My background includes advocacy in school settings, support for foster youth, and assisting military children and families. I specialize in aiding individuals overwhelmed by life's challenges or their emotions, guiding them towards positive processing. Together, we'll devise strategies to manage emotions and reconnect with your authentic self. Whether you're navigating complex relationship dynamics or grappling with anxiety and depression, I'm here to support you.
(434) 201-8269 View (434) 201-8269
Photo of Doug Fagen, PhD, Psychologist
Doug Fagen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Life today can be overwhelming. Anxiety, stress, and self-doubt accompany many of us as we try to figure out who we are, and who we are trying to become. Trauma, grief, and loss are part of many people’s lives. It can be easy to lose our way. Fortunately, there are ways that we can regain our footing, find meaning in our lives, and develop healthy ways to cope with all of the challenges that come our way. This is the focus of my psychotherapy work. My practice specializes in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, family conflict, and relationship difficulties.
Life today can be overwhelming. Anxiety, stress, and self-doubt accompany many of us as we try to figure out who we are, and who we are trying to become. Trauma, grief, and loss are part of many people’s lives. It can be easy to lose our way. Fortunately, there are ways that we can regain our footing, find meaning in our lives, and develop healthy ways to cope with all of the challenges that come our way. This is the focus of my psychotherapy work. My practice specializes in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-doubt, family conflict, and relationship difficulties.
(571) 946-5255 View (571) 946-5255
Photo of Sarah J Vavredge, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah J Vavredge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
Sarah believes that therapy is a collaborative process between the therapist, the client and their family, that allows children and adolescents to be able to meet their full potential. She believes that each individual is unique and the therapeutic process can be tailored to meet their needs. Children and adolescents are able to develop tools and skills to help them process and address the challenges the face through the therapeutic process. Children and adolescents benefit from a person to explore their emotions, process transitions, and develop self-esteem and confidence. Therapy can help build lifelong coping skills and tools.
Sarah believes that therapy is a collaborative process between the therapist, the client and their family, that allows children and adolescents to be able to meet their full potential. She believes that each individual is unique and the therapeutic process can be tailored to meet their needs. Children and adolescents are able to develop tools and skills to help them process and address the challenges the face through the therapeutic process. Children and adolescents benefit from a person to explore their emotions, process transitions, and develop self-esteem and confidence. Therapy can help build lifelong coping skills and tools.
(571) 526-0129 View (571) 526-0129
Photo of Marianne Redmond Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marianne Redmond Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
I'm all about equipping folks with the right tools to help them level up fast and in a good way. I get it—your time and money matter, so I aim to keep things organized and focused on goals. Over the years, I've worked with all sorts of people dealing with their own unique situations. My specialties? Well, I've got a knack for helping out healthcare pros, therapists, first responders, teachers, folks in high-stress gigs, couples, those facing professional challenges, and anyone going through major life shifts.
I'm all about equipping folks with the right tools to help them level up fast and in a good way. I get it—your time and money matter, so I aim to keep things organized and focused on goals. Over the years, I've worked with all sorts of people dealing with their own unique situations. My specialties? Well, I've got a knack for helping out healthcare pros, therapists, first responders, teachers, folks in high-stress gigs, couples, those facing professional challenges, and anyone going through major life shifts.
(540) 441-1374 View (540) 441-1374
Photo of Angela Wonnita Bost Scott
Angela Wonnita Bost Scott
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Welcome, and kudos on summoning the courage to embark on this initial step. If you're here, it's likely because you're experiencing pain and exhaustion from dealing with it. You've become adept at masking your struggles, but deep down, you recognize the challenges you're facing. It's perfectly alright if you're uncertain about how things will improve. By reaching out for assistance, you've already taken a significant stride towards healing. Let's commence this journey together.
Welcome, and kudos on summoning the courage to embark on this initial step. If you're here, it's likely because you're experiencing pain and exhaustion from dealing with it. You've become adept at masking your struggles, but deep down, you recognize the challenges you're facing. It's perfectly alright if you're uncertain about how things will improve. By reaching out for assistance, you've already taken a significant stride towards healing. Let's commence this journey together.
(434) 442-2560 View (434) 442-2560
1
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.