Photo of Sofia Anlei Robinson Kent, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Sofia Anlei Robinson Kent
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
No matter who we are or where we come from, we all deserve to live happy and fulfilling lives. Life is hard and can present us with emotional challenges we’re not sure how to process. The first step is asking for help. If you're going through the adoption process, are an adoptee (youth or adult), experiencing relationship issues (monogamous and non-monogamous), are of a marginalized community, or have a special needs child in the family, I'd love to help you process through the complex feelings that accompany your unique intersection of identities.
No matter who we are or where we come from, we all deserve to live happy and fulfilling lives. Life is hard and can present us with emotional challenges we’re not sure how to process. The first step is asking for help. If you're going through the adoption process, are an adoptee (youth or adult), experiencing relationship issues (monogamous and non-monogamous), are of a marginalized community, or have a special needs child in the family, I'd love to help you process through the complex feelings that accompany your unique intersection of identities.
(720) 445-8324 View (720) 445-8324
Photo of Lisa Talucci, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Lisa Talucci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
My approach is to help people recover from anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, grief and loss, eating disorders, adoption issues, perfectionism, difficult family relationship dynamics and feeling "not enough" no matter how hard you try. I know that taking the first step is big, and you've probably already been working really hard to manage things yourself. Let's work together in a productive way and get your life going in the direction that you want. Contact me for a free 15 minute consultation to discuss what you need.
My approach is to help people recover from anxiety, trauma, PTSD, depression, grief and loss, eating disorders, adoption issues, perfectionism, difficult family relationship dynamics and feeling "not enough" no matter how hard you try. I know that taking the first step is big, and you've probably already been working really hard to manage things yourself. Let's work together in a productive way and get your life going in the direction that you want. Contact me for a free 15 minute consultation to discuss what you need.
(303) 963-9161 View (303) 963-9161
Photo of Lisa Ali, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Lisa Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80210
I work collaboratively with clients who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, life transitions, genuine connections, relationship issues, attachment, bonding and adoption-related issues. I believe in the strength of families and individuals and I will collaborate with you by building on those strengths during the therapeutic process. I believe we all have strengths we can draw from which make us a stronger healthier human being. I believe in looking at therapy as a part of a holistic maintenance we as humans should all participate in. We are exercising our brains and emotions to strengthen who we are and who we strive to be.
I work collaboratively with clients who are struggling with feelings of anxiety, life transitions, genuine connections, relationship issues, attachment, bonding and adoption-related issues. I believe in the strength of families and individuals and I will collaborate with you by building on those strengths during the therapeutic process. I believe we all have strengths we can draw from which make us a stronger healthier human being. I believe in looking at therapy as a part of a holistic maintenance we as humans should all participate in. We are exercising our brains and emotions to strengthen who we are and who we strive to be.
(303) 569-4350 View (303) 569-4350
Photo of Abby Derr-Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Abby Derr-Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LPC, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Many will enter therapy thinking, “What have I been doing wrong to get here?” I meet clients and think, “What have you been doing right to make it this far?” Yes, I think a bit backwards, but it’s what allows me to find innovative ways to help clients move forward using their strengths. Individuals, couples, and families who have previously felt stuck in complex issues with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, adoption, parenting, and relationships report finding relief through embracing their strengths and being reassured that their experience is valid. This helps tap into their innate ability to heal and renew balance.
Many will enter therapy thinking, “What have I been doing wrong to get here?” I meet clients and think, “What have you been doing right to make it this far?” Yes, I think a bit backwards, but it’s what allows me to find innovative ways to help clients move forward using their strengths. Individuals, couples, and families who have previously felt stuck in complex issues with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, adoption, parenting, and relationships report finding relief through embracing their strengths and being reassured that their experience is valid. This helps tap into their innate ability to heal and renew balance.
(970) 251-1936 View (970) 251-1936
Photo of Meghan Scanlan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Meghan Scanlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
My true passion is working with families of adoption.
Hi! I am guessing that if I you have found me here, you are pretty desperate to help your little (or big) family. I have been working in private practice since 2010 helping families feel connected and calm again. My goal is for clients to be excited to come and see me and we can make some progress towards healing at the same time. I continue to be an active learner and have participated in many trainings- most notably EMDR, Karyn Purvis's Trust Based Relational Intervention, Gottman's Couples Therapy, Bruce Perry's Neurosequential Framework, DBT, and Heather Forbes's Beyond Consequences.
My true passion is working with families of adoption.
Hi! I am guessing that if I you have found me here, you are pretty desperate to help your little (or big) family. I have been working in private practice since 2010 helping families feel connected and calm again. My goal is for clients to be excited to come and see me and we can make some progress towards healing at the same time. I continue to be an active learner and have participated in many trainings- most notably EMDR, Karyn Purvis's Trust Based Relational Intervention, Gottman's Couples Therapy, Bruce Perry's Neurosequential Framework, DBT, and Heather Forbes's Beyond Consequences.
(303) 872-9163 View (303) 872-9163
Photo of Jani Tomski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Jani Tomski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80204
Hello! Every one of my clients is unique. What I specialize in is trauma, learned/experienced relationship patterns, adoption, family challenges, neuro-diversity and am LGBTQ+ friendly. . My focus is on using the (sometimes unrecognized) strengths of clients to overcome even severe obstacles to success. My 41 years of experience includes individual, family, and group psychotherapy, teaching at the Master's level at Regis University and DU, elementary school counseling, local and national educational presentations, and animal assisted therapy. I am also a birth, foster and adoptive parent.
Hello! Every one of my clients is unique. What I specialize in is trauma, learned/experienced relationship patterns, adoption, family challenges, neuro-diversity and am LGBTQ+ friendly. . My focus is on using the (sometimes unrecognized) strengths of clients to overcome even severe obstacles to success. My 41 years of experience includes individual, family, and group psychotherapy, teaching at the Master's level at Regis University and DU, elementary school counseling, local and national educational presentations, and animal assisted therapy. I am also a birth, foster and adoptive parent.
(720) 903-4631 View (720) 903-4631
Photo of Tayler Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Tayler Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80219
New client spots available! Licensed in WI,IL,CO & FL(by endorsement). I identify as a Bi/queer cis woman (she/her) who was late diagnosed as ADHD. I provide LGBTQI+ and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy. I also provide therapy to those involved in Adoption & Foster through the TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) approach. We go against the grain of “typical” & how “things should be” & focus instead on what works for you. Are you ready to dig into root issues, explore your identity, set boundaries, communicate your needs and build healthy coping skills?
New client spots available! Licensed in WI,IL,CO & FL(by endorsement). I identify as a Bi/queer cis woman (she/her) who was late diagnosed as ADHD. I provide LGBTQI+ and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy. I also provide therapy to those involved in Adoption & Foster through the TAC (Training in Adoption Competency) approach. We go against the grain of “typical” & how “things should be” & focus instead on what works for you. Are you ready to dig into root issues, explore your identity, set boundaries, communicate your needs and build healthy coping skills?
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Photo of Aaron J. Wiemeier - High Mountain Counseling Llc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Aaron J. Wiemeier - High Mountain Counseling Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80227
For detailed information about the practice, the trauma symptom checklist as well as other helpful information about trauma, attachment and adoption issues visit: WWW.
I offer a supportive, encouraging and pragmatic approach, and will partner with you to help you understand how and why you were designed to heal and overcome everything from severe childhood trauma to the everyday struggles of parenting, marriage and interpersonal relationships. Once the how and why are established, then we move on to helping you actively create new patterns in your life that will lead you, and often others connected to you, on the path to becoming everything you and they are meant to be.
For detailed information about the practice, the trauma symptom checklist as well as other helpful information about trauma, attachment and adoption issues visit: WWW.
I offer a supportive, encouraging and pragmatic approach, and will partner with you to help you understand how and why you were designed to heal and overcome everything from severe childhood trauma to the everyday struggles of parenting, marriage and interpersonal relationships. Once the how and why are established, then we move on to helping you actively create new patterns in your life that will lead you, and often others connected to you, on the path to becoming everything you and they are meant to be.
(303) 625-7627 View (303) 625-7627
Photo of Dawn Crosswhite, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Dawn Crosswhite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescent females, and LGBTQIA-identified clients and their families who are often times involved in the juvenile justice system and child welfare. I also work with female and LGBTQIA military personnel and veterans. Working with these systems has afforded me the opportunity to build my skills so that I am very proficient in many areas, such as trauma and PTSD, adoption, permanency, military personnel, and addiction concerns. I work from a strength-based, solution-focused perspective and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and experiential treatment models.
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescent females, and LGBTQIA-identified clients and their families who are often times involved in the juvenile justice system and child welfare. I also work with female and LGBTQIA military personnel and veterans. Working with these systems has afforded me the opportunity to build my skills so that I am very proficient in many areas, such as trauma and PTSD, adoption, permanency, military personnel, and addiction concerns. I work from a strength-based, solution-focused perspective and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and experiential treatment models.
(720) 897-3017 View (720) 897-3017
Photo of Erin Wertheimer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Erin Wertheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80218
I absolutely love working as a therapist! Nothing gives me more satisfaction than assisting individuals to reach their full potential. I work with individuals to help each person resolve problems, to create more satisfying relationships with themselves, and to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. I specialize in trauma therapy, adoption, foster care, postpartum, anxiety and depression. I work collaboratively with each person to search for the best options when choosing what type of therapy treatment they feel is best for them.
I absolutely love working as a therapist! Nothing gives me more satisfaction than assisting individuals to reach their full potential. I work with individuals to help each person resolve problems, to create more satisfying relationships with themselves, and to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. I specialize in trauma therapy, adoption, foster care, postpartum, anxiety and depression. I work collaboratively with each person to search for the best options when choosing what type of therapy treatment they feel is best for them.
(720) 868-9350 View (720) 868-9350
Photo of Anne Maxwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Anne Maxwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
As a play therapist and family therapist, I believe that healing is a family affair, and, I include parents as an integral part of their child's therapy. I specialize in trauma, attachment, adoption, blended families, difficult and severe behaviors, as well as parenting, and issues stemming from any and all of the above. I love working with children and their parents and families. Children seem to have an innate sense of what is going on and what needs to happen in order for healing to occur, and, when they are able to express that and be heard, the whole family can shift and change.
As a play therapist and family therapist, I believe that healing is a family affair, and, I include parents as an integral part of their child's therapy. I specialize in trauma, attachment, adoption, blended families, difficult and severe behaviors, as well as parenting, and issues stemming from any and all of the above. I love working with children and their parents and families. Children seem to have an innate sense of what is going on and what needs to happen in order for healing to occur, and, when they are able to express that and be heard, the whole family can shift and change.
(303) 900-5872 View (303) 900-5872
Photo of Janet Borelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Janet Borelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I work with Life goal issues, family communication, child behavior issues, survivors of trauma, foster care and adoption (attachment issues), and chronic mental illness.
Are you under stress? Overwhelmed? Do you feel unable to move ahead in your life? Would you like to feel more effective with your children or in your marriage? Is your child struggling at home or at school? I have 25 years experience in individual , child and family counseling, as well as couples counseling. I work with issues, from life transitions ( divorce, loss ) to chronic mental illness, and trauma. Although I work from a cognitive behavioral base, I draw from many theoretical techniques, including psychodynamic,developmental, trauma recovery, EMDR, art therapy and others (we find what works best for you).
I work with Life goal issues, family communication, child behavior issues, survivors of trauma, foster care and adoption (attachment issues), and chronic mental illness.
Are you under stress? Overwhelmed? Do you feel unable to move ahead in your life? Would you like to feel more effective with your children or in your marriage? Is your child struggling at home or at school? I have 25 years experience in individual , child and family counseling, as well as couples counseling. I work with issues, from life transitions ( divorce, loss ) to chronic mental illness, and trauma. Although I work from a cognitive behavioral base, I draw from many theoretical techniques, including psychodynamic,developmental, trauma recovery, EMDR, art therapy and others (we find what works best for you).
(720) 709-2013 View (720) 709-2013
Photo of Laura X. Williams - Racial Justice Attachment Therapy, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Denver, CO
Laura X. Williams - Racial Justice Attachment Therapy
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209
Hello! My name is Laura X. Williams, and I am a Licensed Addiction Counselor and Relational Psychotherapist in the Denver area. My ideal clients are those who seek to explore potential in their own identity and relationships with an emphasis on love, sexual health, and gender. I work with couples wanting to build trust and/or are navigating polyamorous relationships; families who are seeking stronger unity about gender and communication; and individuals who hold intersecting identities, including gender, race, and adoption. We are here to repair, heal, and explore our potential for peace, trust, and well-being together.
Hello! My name is Laura X. Williams, and I am a Licensed Addiction Counselor and Relational Psychotherapist in the Denver area. My ideal clients are those who seek to explore potential in their own identity and relationships with an emphasis on love, sexual health, and gender. I work with couples wanting to build trust and/or are navigating polyamorous relationships; families who are seeking stronger unity about gender and communication; and individuals who hold intersecting identities, including gender, race, and adoption. We are here to repair, heal, and explore our potential for peace, trust, and well-being together.
(303) 800-3084 View (303) 800-3084
Photo of Grass Roots Healing, LLC, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Grass Roots Healing, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238  (Online Only)
Reyka's experience involves complex trauma, attachment & relationship issues, anxiety & other mood disorders, adoption-related trauma, & rebuilding skills related to relaxation and stress management.
Dr. Jessica Reyka, Psy.D., the founder and owner of Grass Roots Healing, LLC, is a firm believer that in order to reconnect and heal, we must first go back to the "root" of the problem or concern, which often stems far back into one's life, and then work towards healing from an inward-out approach. "The stronger our roots are, the more beautiful the leaves that come from the tree"; similar to the process of therapy where we rebuild the foundation from which you view the world and create a life/beliefs/behaviors that are more in alignment with your true values and authentic self.
Reyka's experience involves complex trauma, attachment & relationship issues, anxiety & other mood disorders, adoption-related trauma, & rebuilding skills related to relaxation and stress management.
Dr. Jessica Reyka, Psy.D., the founder and owner of Grass Roots Healing, LLC, is a firm believer that in order to reconnect and heal, we must first go back to the "root" of the problem or concern, which often stems far back into one's life, and then work towards healing from an inward-out approach. "The stronger our roots are, the more beautiful the leaves that come from the tree"; similar to the process of therapy where we rebuild the foundation from which you view the world and create a life/beliefs/behaviors that are more in alignment with your true values and authentic self.
(716) 301-2694 View (716) 301-2694
Photo of Dawn Goers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Dawn Goers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
After working with children and families for 15 years in foster care and adoption settings, I developed a passion for empowering people who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, and who struggle with relationship issues. Life always presents challenges and the ability to move through those challenges with a strong sense of self is important. I work closely with clients to develop a strong therapeutic relationship, which engenders an environment of safety and promotes healing. I am an EMDR Certified Clinician which integrates attachment theory, CBT and emotion regulation. I also use child-centered play therapy with children.
After working with children and families for 15 years in foster care and adoption settings, I developed a passion for empowering people who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, and who struggle with relationship issues. Life always presents challenges and the ability to move through those challenges with a strong sense of self is important. I work closely with clients to develop a strong therapeutic relationship, which engenders an environment of safety and promotes healing. I am an EMDR Certified Clinician which integrates attachment theory, CBT and emotion regulation. I also use child-centered play therapy with children.
(303) 814-9173 View (303) 814-9173
Photo of Lorna Benton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Lorna Benton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CDWF
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
With more than 20 years of clinical experience working with adults, adolescents, and families in a number of different clinical settings, some of the issues I have helped many individuals and families resolve are issues related to: grief, loss, self-esteem, shame, anxiety, trauma, divorce, step/blended families, adoption, depression, behavior problems.
You've already tried all you can think of, but asking for help is hard! It takes courage to take that step toward change. You don't have to 'go it' alone. How do you find the 'right fit'? If you are wanting to feel comfortable in your own skin, wanting home be 'a safe place to land', wish for better connections, communication, and ease, then call to schedule. Together we can we can create the change you crave. Whether through individual counseling, family therapy, or in one of my groups: feel better, stop hurting, live happier, get relief, experience more ease, connection with yourself and others, and live with authenticity.
With more than 20 years of clinical experience working with adults, adolescents, and families in a number of different clinical settings, some of the issues I have helped many individuals and families resolve are issues related to: grief, loss, self-esteem, shame, anxiety, trauma, divorce, step/blended families, adoption, depression, behavior problems.
You've already tried all you can think of, but asking for help is hard! It takes courage to take that step toward change. You don't have to 'go it' alone. How do you find the 'right fit'? If you are wanting to feel comfortable in your own skin, wanting home be 'a safe place to land', wish for better connections, communication, and ease, then call to schedule. Together we can we can create the change you crave. Whether through individual counseling, family therapy, or in one of my groups: feel better, stop hurting, live happier, get relief, experience more ease, connection with yourself and others, and live with authenticity.
(303) 449-0345 View (303) 449-0345
Photo of Lisa Elsey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Lisa Elsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
Waitlist for new clients
Those that need help with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships issues, family problems such as adoption, marriage, blended families, and parenting issues are all welcome.
Those that need help with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships issues, family problems such as adoption, marriage, blended families, and parenting issues are all welcome.
(720) 669-7038 View (720) 669-7038
Photo of Rene Guerette, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Rene Guerette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80233
I have extensive experience and training in the treatment of- anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, divorce, parenting issues, adoption, LGBT issues, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, solutions focused therapy, spiritually inclusive practice, nutritional support, EMDR and more!.
At every age of the lifespan, from 2 years to 72 years; I provide direct and supportive, holistic, educational and evidence-informed treatment for life's current stressors as well as mental health concerns that come up. Along with sound knowledge of human behavior, I bring warmth, compassion and positive regard to the collaborative relationship based on trust and confidentiality.
I have extensive experience and training in the treatment of- anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, divorce, parenting issues, adoption, LGBT issues, play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, solutions focused therapy, spiritually inclusive practice, nutritional support, EMDR and more!.
At every age of the lifespan, from 2 years to 72 years; I provide direct and supportive, holistic, educational and evidence-informed treatment for life's current stressors as well as mental health concerns that come up. Along with sound knowledge of human behavior, I bring warmth, compassion and positive regard to the collaborative relationship based on trust and confidentiality.
(303) 625-9450 View (303) 625-9450
Photo of Jenner Cole Paulson, Counselor in Denver, CO
Jenner Cole Paulson
Counselor, LPCC
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80022
I offer relational care, play based counseling for children (special focus on adoption), and kickboxing based therapy.
My ideal clients include caring individuals in search of a desire to be known, seen, and supported. I aim to work alongside deeply loving and caring clients, focused on healthy growth and connection for them and their families. If you or your child are feeling unseen, missed, alone, or stuck in the midst of difficult life circumstances, I would love to be a source of connection and support for you. Seeing you or your child experience the deep aliveness of being seen and valued brings me joy and a deep sense of purpose.
I offer relational care, play based counseling for children (special focus on adoption), and kickboxing based therapy.
My ideal clients include caring individuals in search of a desire to be known, seen, and supported. I aim to work alongside deeply loving and caring clients, focused on healthy growth and connection for them and their families. If you or your child are feeling unseen, missed, alone, or stuck in the midst of difficult life circumstances, I would love to be a source of connection and support for you. Seeing you or your child experience the deep aliveness of being seen and valued brings me joy and a deep sense of purpose.
(719) 626-9209 View (719) 626-9209
Photo of Lori A. Loretta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Lori A. Loretta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80022  (Online Only)
Typically my client base includes children, young adults & parents. My clients typically seek assistance for: processing divorce, understanding and working through attachment, dealing with bullying, building self-esteem and confidence, developing coping skills, managing depression, anxiety, and most adolescent, teenage issues. When working with young adults I typically work with clients who need assistance with being career focused, create life goals, build healthy habits, practice self-care, identify healthy friendships and relationships to name a few. I also have experience working with adoption and foster care related issues.
Typically my client base includes children, young adults & parents. My clients typically seek assistance for: processing divorce, understanding and working through attachment, dealing with bullying, building self-esteem and confidence, developing coping skills, managing depression, anxiety, and most adolescent, teenage issues. When working with young adults I typically work with clients who need assistance with being career focused, create life goals, build healthy habits, practice self-care, identify healthy friendships and relationships to name a few. I also have experience working with adoption and foster care related issues.
(720) 408-6925 View (720) 408-6925
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.