Adoption Therapists in Herndon, VA

Photo of Laurie Levine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Adoption and grief work are both specialties.
Your teen’s grades are terrible and she isolates in her room, your adopted child struggles to have any healthy relationships or you are drowning in work and family and can’t find a moment to breathe? I get it! Together we will begin the healing process. I listen, you vent, we laugh and there are tears. Slowly the weight feels less heavy and, one step at a time, hope and relief turn into peace and joy . It's scary, but it's worth it! Take a chance on yourself
Adoption and grief work are both specialties.
Your teen’s grades are terrible and she isolates in her room, your adopted child struggles to have any healthy relationships or you are drowning in work and family and can’t find a moment to breathe? I get it! Together we will begin the healing process. I listen, you vent, we laugh and there are tears. Slowly the weight feels less heavy and, one step at a time, hope and relief turn into peace and joy . It's scary, but it's worth it! Take a chance on yourself
(703) 910-5977 View (703) 910-5977
Photo of Carroll Martin, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carroll Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Maybe you've seen lots of different therapists, how will adoption focused counseling be different? As a transracial adoptee myself, I have personal insight and have worked with many families like yours.
Finding a therapist you connect with can feel so overwhelming you avoid it. But that is probably why you're here, because there have been things you've been avoiding and you're ready to get some help. Being foster and adoptive parents is way harder than most people understand, especially those who haven't experienced the invasive and arduous process. As a teen or young adult, you might be feeling lost, alone, or angry and not quite sure why. You might be having a harder time than others figuring out who are you are and where you fit in the world. My style fuses warmth, humor, and directness.
Maybe you've seen lots of different therapists, how will adoption focused counseling be different? As a transracial adoptee myself, I have personal insight and have worked with many families like yours.
Finding a therapist you connect with can feel so overwhelming you avoid it. But that is probably why you're here, because there have been things you've been avoiding and you're ready to get some help. Being foster and adoptive parents is way harder than most people understand, especially those who haven't experienced the invasive and arduous process. As a teen or young adult, you might be feeling lost, alone, or angry and not quite sure why. You might be having a harder time than others figuring out who are you are and where you fit in the world. My style fuses warmth, humor, and directness.
(540) 401-5455 View (540) 401-5455
Photo of Deborah Sanders, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
Because of my lived experience as an adoptive mother, and training as an adoption competent therapist, I am most passionate about helping other families better understand their family needs and how adoption has impacted each person in the family.
I'm only seeing clients located in Virginia and fully virtual! I often work with parents who are preparing to bring a child into their family through adoption and those who have been a family for a long time who are struggling. Maybe becoming a parent through adoption was not what you expected. Maybe you are an adoptee yourself and struggling with things like feeling really guilty or wondering where you fit. My clients want to better understand themselves and their family dynamics to feel more whole and secure.
Because of my lived experience as an adoptive mother, and training as an adoption competent therapist, I am most passionate about helping other families better understand their family needs and how adoption has impacted each person in the family.
I'm only seeing clients located in Virginia and fully virtual! I often work with parents who are preparing to bring a child into their family through adoption and those who have been a family for a long time who are struggling. Maybe becoming a parent through adoption was not what you expected. Maybe you are an adoptee yourself and struggling with things like feeling really guilty or wondering where you fit. My clients want to better understand themselves and their family dynamics to feel more whole and secure.
(571) 556-1699 View (571) 556-1699
Photo of Emma Wanroy, MA, LGPC, NCC, Counselor
Emma Wanroy
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
Because of my lived experience as an adoptee, and training as an adoption competent therapist, I am most passionate about helping other adoptees navigate their identity and better understand how their adoption has impacted them throughout their lives.
I'm only seeing clients located in Maryland and fully virtual! I believe by exploring our past experiences and relationships we can find answers to better understand our own behaviors and thought processes. Our best healing happens throughout the context of a safe relationship and that is what I offer in therapy; a safe place where my client can explore their pain, trauma, hurt, and confusion in order to heal and live the most meaningful life possible. My clients know what their goals are and are excited to get to work but may need more accountability or support. Sometimes they aren't so clear and I can help with that, too.
Because of my lived experience as an adoptee, and training as an adoption competent therapist, I am most passionate about helping other adoptees navigate their identity and better understand how their adoption has impacted them throughout their lives.
I'm only seeing clients located in Maryland and fully virtual! I believe by exploring our past experiences and relationships we can find answers to better understand our own behaviors and thought processes. Our best healing happens throughout the context of a safe relationship and that is what I offer in therapy; a safe place where my client can explore their pain, trauma, hurt, and confusion in order to heal and live the most meaningful life possible. My clients know what their goals are and are excited to get to work but may need more accountability or support. Sometimes they aren't so clear and I can help with that, too.
(240) 512-8119 View (240) 512-8119
Photo of Christa Carlton, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christa Carlton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people impacted by adoption and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, identity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
I specialize in working with people impacted by adoption and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, identity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
(443) 785-2982 View (443) 785-2982
Photo of Frani Gutierrez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Frani Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
I work with teens and adults that are struggling in their lives to feel like they are "enough". They want to be seen by their families, parents, significant others, bosses, the world as worthy; to feel confident and brave, even when their insecurities may continue to pop up. They want to feel connected to their friends, partners, and children. Many of my clients have survived toxic or abusive relationships, suffered unimaginable losses, and are continuing to deal with issues related to adoption and/or a difficult childhood. As an adopted person myself, I have a unique understanding around adoption and attachment related needs.
I work with teens and adults that are struggling in their lives to feel like they are "enough". They want to be seen by their families, parents, significant others, bosses, the world as worthy; to feel confident and brave, even when their insecurities may continue to pop up. They want to feel connected to their friends, partners, and children. Many of my clients have survived toxic or abusive relationships, suffered unimaginable losses, and are continuing to deal with issues related to adoption and/or a difficult childhood. As an adopted person myself, I have a unique understanding around adoption and attachment related needs.
(571) 569-7145 View (571) 569-7145
Photo of Shannon Walsh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have 14 years of experience working with adults, couples/partners/spouses and children seeking help with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, infertility, women’s issues, relationship/martial issues, life transitions, foster care and adoption and addiction.
The past few years have been very difficult for all of us. The anxiety, fear and worry can be overwhelming. I am here to help. I provide a caring and empathetic relationship with you to guide and achieve new goals and increase self-esteem. We will work together to identify and achieve goals while exploring any obstacles that may occur. I will partner with you to offer personalized care that addresses your needs and helps you find the right path forward.
I have 14 years of experience working with adults, couples/partners/spouses and children seeking help with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, infertility, women’s issues, relationship/martial issues, life transitions, foster care and adoption and addiction.
The past few years have been very difficult for all of us. The anxiety, fear and worry can be overwhelming. I am here to help. I provide a caring and empathetic relationship with you to guide and achieve new goals and increase self-esteem. We will work together to identify and achieve goals while exploring any obstacles that may occur. I will partner with you to offer personalized care that addresses your needs and helps you find the right path forward.
(703) 686-8517 View (703) 686-8517
Photo of Landon Sheriff, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Landon Sheriff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20191  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with over a decade of experience with adults and children who are seeking assistance managing: depression, anxiety, life changes, family/relationship issues, autism, urges to self-harm, suicidality, trauma, life dissatisfaction, and adoption/foster care. Therapy isn't meant to be long-term; rather, it is focused on helping you to feel better and function better sooner rather than later. I want to come alongside you and be on your team in order to empower you to reach your goals and to live the best life you can.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with over a decade of experience with adults and children who are seeking assistance managing: depression, anxiety, life changes, family/relationship issues, autism, urges to self-harm, suicidality, trauma, life dissatisfaction, and adoption/foster care. Therapy isn't meant to be long-term; rather, it is focused on helping you to feel better and function better sooner rather than later. I want to come alongside you and be on your team in order to empower you to reach your goals and to live the best life you can.
(804) 492-1364 View (804) 492-1364
Photo of Lupita Rodriguez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lupita Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20171  (Online Only)
I am particularly interested in working with folks with trauma, I am trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, Adoption competency, and Trauma-focused CBT.
Welcome, my name is Lupita. I am an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) based in Virginia. I enjoy mixing modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing and more depending on the unique needs and personalities of my clients. I am particularly interested in working with folks with trauma. I am trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, Adoption competency, and Trauma-focused CBT. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming counselor and ally. I am also bilingual (English/Spanish).
I am particularly interested in working with folks with trauma, I am trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, Adoption competency, and Trauma-focused CBT.
Welcome, my name is Lupita. I am an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) based in Virginia. I enjoy mixing modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing and more depending on the unique needs and personalities of my clients. I am particularly interested in working with folks with trauma. I am trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, Adoption competency, and Trauma-focused CBT. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming counselor and ally. I am also bilingual (English/Spanish).
(804) 597-3816 View (804) 597-3816
Photo of Maria A Hylton - Maria A Hylton, LCSW, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria A Hylton, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
Has your life gotten off track? Do you need an ASAM substance abuse evaluation pre or post court due to an alcohol/drug related charge? Has alcohol affected your health or liver status? Are your life goals on hold because of an alcohol/drug related issue? Is it time to evaluate your relationship with alcohol/drugs and make some changes? Do you need outpatient follow up from intensive treatment? Are issues such as depression, anxiety, stress management, life skills, grief, post partum depression, or adoption getting in your way? Come meet with a counselor skilled in substance abuse and mental health services to discuss options.
Has your life gotten off track? Do you need an ASAM substance abuse evaluation pre or post court due to an alcohol/drug related charge? Has alcohol affected your health or liver status? Are your life goals on hold because of an alcohol/drug related issue? Is it time to evaluate your relationship with alcohol/drugs and make some changes? Do you need outpatient follow up from intensive treatment? Are issues such as depression, anxiety, stress management, life skills, grief, post partum depression, or adoption getting in your way? Come meet with a counselor skilled in substance abuse and mental health services to discuss options.
(703) 476-2348 View (703) 476-2348
Photo of Sara Boothe, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Boothe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Currently not accepting new clients. Hello! I am glad you have been brought to my profile. I fully understand that therapy is a challenging process, and what makes the biggest difference is finding a therapist that is the best fit for you. If you are someone looking to start the therapy journey that is wanting to: improve their relationship with the self and others, find more solid footing in the world around them, rid themselves of intrusive negative thoughts, build up their self-esteem, and increase emotional awareness/regulation, and more, I would be honored to help you.
Currently not accepting new clients. Hello! I am glad you have been brought to my profile. I fully understand that therapy is a challenging process, and what makes the biggest difference is finding a therapist that is the best fit for you. If you are someone looking to start the therapy journey that is wanting to: improve their relationship with the self and others, find more solid footing in the world around them, rid themselves of intrusive negative thoughts, build up their self-esteem, and increase emotional awareness/regulation, and more, I would be honored to help you.
(703) 952-5314 View (703) 952-5314
Heidi Blattel Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Finding the right therapist is a challenging journey. It's essential to find a therapist that can help you navigate through difficult life situations while providing an objective perspective. I believe in working with people's strengths and empowering them to live their life being fully present and engaged. In every session my focus is on creating a safe atmosphere where clients feel comfortable enough to express whatever they're experiencing without the fear of judgement or guilt. It is within that umbrella of trust that people report feeling truly heard and understood, some for the first time in their lives.
Finding the right therapist is a challenging journey. It's essential to find a therapist that can help you navigate through difficult life situations while providing an objective perspective. I believe in working with people's strengths and empowering them to live their life being fully present and engaged. In every session my focus is on creating a safe atmosphere where clients feel comfortable enough to express whatever they're experiencing without the fear of judgement or guilt. It is within that umbrella of trust that people report feeling truly heard and understood, some for the first time in their lives.
(571) 366-8141 View (571) 366-8141
Photo of Robin Cohen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robin Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
One of the key beliefs that I hold regarding therapy is that clients generally know what is best for them. Rather than telling clients what to do, I help explore options, loosen possiblities, examine potential consequences and empower clients to make decisions that will ultimately lead to healthy relationships. This is done in a supportive, respectful and collaborative environement.
One of the key beliefs that I hold regarding therapy is that clients generally know what is best for them. Rather than telling clients what to do, I help explore options, loosen possiblities, examine potential consequences and empower clients to make decisions that will ultimately lead to healthy relationships. This is done in a supportive, respectful and collaborative environement.
(540) 491-4816 x703625 View (540) 491-4816 x703625
Photo of Juan Carlos Silva, PhD, Psychologist
Juan Carlos Silva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
Are you ready to challenge yourself? Do you feel there is a gap between your true potential and your current achievements? Does your thinking pattern keep you from enjoying life? If your answer to any of these questions is Yes then we should probably talk. I have been a psychotherapist since 1991 and can certainly offer valuable, diagnostic, and therapeutic interventions to help you realistically define and achieve your goals. Whether you want to improve your relationship or marriage, get ahead in your career, put traumatic memories behind, or remain drug-free I can help you move in that direction.
Are you ready to challenge yourself? Do you feel there is a gap between your true potential and your current achievements? Does your thinking pattern keep you from enjoying life? If your answer to any of these questions is Yes then we should probably talk. I have been a psychotherapist since 1991 and can certainly offer valuable, diagnostic, and therapeutic interventions to help you realistically define and achieve your goals. Whether you want to improve your relationship or marriage, get ahead in your career, put traumatic memories behind, or remain drug-free I can help you move in that direction.
(703) 584-4766 View (703) 584-4766
Photo of Georgianna Achilles - Telehealth, PhD, Psychologist
Georgianna Achilles - Telehealth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
There are many reasons people seek support, and none of us is immune to the stress of coping with life's challenges. I work with adults and children/teens who seek therapy for issues such as stress-management, coping with difficult emotions (depression/anxiety/anger), relationship issues, parenting strategies, and healing from trauma and loss. Together we assess the root causes of problems and collaborate to develop a treatment approach. I integrate evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and play therapy/expressive arts approaches (as appropriate).
There are many reasons people seek support, and none of us is immune to the stress of coping with life's challenges. I work with adults and children/teens who seek therapy for issues such as stress-management, coping with difficult emotions (depression/anxiety/anger), relationship issues, parenting strategies, and healing from trauma and loss. Together we assess the root causes of problems and collaborate to develop a treatment approach. I integrate evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, and play therapy/expressive arts approaches (as appropriate).
(703) 348-9719 View (703) 348-9719
Photo of Johni J Spinelli, Johni, J, Spinell, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Johni J Spinelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, Johni, J, Spinell, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
I will assist you in a caring and professional manner to find realistic answers and solutions that make sense to you in your life, and allow you to more effectively manage each day. I bring over 30 years of experience working effectively with adults, children, families, and couples with a wide range of problems, from mild to severe in nature. My therapeutic approach is strength-based and practical. I draw from a number of different treatment approaches (including but not limited to: CBT, Humanistic, Family Systems, DBT) to most effectively address your presenting issues, reduce symptoms, and meet your goals in seeking treatment.
I will assist you in a caring and professional manner to find realistic answers and solutions that make sense to you in your life, and allow you to more effectively manage each day. I bring over 30 years of experience working effectively with adults, children, families, and couples with a wide range of problems, from mild to severe in nature. My therapeutic approach is strength-based and practical. I draw from a number of different treatment approaches (including but not limited to: CBT, Humanistic, Family Systems, DBT) to most effectively address your presenting issues, reduce symptoms, and meet your goals in seeking treatment.
(571) 384-4612 View (571) 384-4612
Photo of Anita Clark, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
Ready to prioritize your mental health? To be resilient in the face of adversity? To feel like your best self again? Reaching out is not always easy, but I am here, ready to help. Therapy can provide that foundation for getting back on track and feeling yourself again. I have worked with adults of all ages, but specialize in assisting people working through trauma and change in a safe and confidential space. For anyone experiencing loss, major life events, and change. Together, we will work to understand your unique journey, address the impact of past events, and support you in adapting to and thriving amidst life's transitions.
Ready to prioritize your mental health? To be resilient in the face of adversity? To feel like your best self again? Reaching out is not always easy, but I am here, ready to help. Therapy can provide that foundation for getting back on track and feeling yourself again. I have worked with adults of all ages, but specialize in assisting people working through trauma and change in a safe and confidential space. For anyone experiencing loss, major life events, and change. Together, we will work to understand your unique journey, address the impact of past events, and support you in adapting to and thriving amidst life's transitions.
(571) 462-6247 View (571) 462-6247
Photo of Sarah Stark, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Stark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
I provide therapy for children/teens and adults who are looking for help and support to successfully handle life's challenges. Because my practice includes working with children, I offer strong support for parents and families who are affected by what a child is experiencing. My approach is primarily cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused, meaning that we will look at the interplay among thoughts, feelings and behaviors to explore how negative thought patterns influence behavior and work to change those patterns to provide emotional relief. I help clients develop real-life skills and coping strategies that can last a lifetime.
I provide therapy for children/teens and adults who are looking for help and support to successfully handle life's challenges. Because my practice includes working with children, I offer strong support for parents and families who are affected by what a child is experiencing. My approach is primarily cognitive-behavioral and solution-focused, meaning that we will look at the interplay among thoughts, feelings and behaviors to explore how negative thought patterns influence behavior and work to change those patterns to provide emotional relief. I help clients develop real-life skills and coping strategies that can last a lifetime.
(571) 989-7933 View (571) 989-7933
Photo of Michael T. Greelis, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael T. Greelis
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
I provide counseling services to adolescents, adults, and preteens. I see people for individual, family, and couples counseling. Services for individuals address the following conditions: depression; bipolar disorder (in conjunction with a psychiatrist); trauma and grief; disruptive behavior including anger problems; substance abuse; and work/professional problems involving mood or other behavioral problems.
I provide counseling services to adolescents, adults, and preteens. I see people for individual, family, and couples counseling. Services for individuals address the following conditions: depression; bipolar disorder (in conjunction with a psychiatrist); trauma and grief; disruptive behavior including anger problems; substance abuse; and work/professional problems involving mood or other behavioral problems.
(703) 935-5782 View (703) 935-5782
Photo of Sanderijn Batelaan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sanderijn Batelaan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170
Are you feeling increasingly anxious and/or depressed? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world as well as issues in your own life and family? If you are on this site, it looks like you are thinking about giving therapy a try. Welcome to Silver Lining Therapy. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment for my clients. My approach is personal, practical, non judgmental. I work in a variety of ways, depending on your needs and preference, using cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga and mindfulness, as well as just good old fashioned talk therapy.
Are you feeling increasingly anxious and/or depressed? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world as well as issues in your own life and family? If you are on this site, it looks like you are thinking about giving therapy a try. Welcome to Silver Lining Therapy. I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment for my clients. My approach is personal, practical, non judgmental. I work in a variety of ways, depending on your needs and preference, using cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga and mindfulness, as well as just good old fashioned talk therapy.
(571) 350-8352 View (571) 350-8352
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.