Adoption Therapists in Ruckersville, VA

Photo of Mecca Antonia Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruckersville, VA
Mecca Antonia Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RDT, BCT
Verified Verified
Ruckersville, VA 22968
What dreams will you make come true? What barriers exist, inside you or outside of you? For 30 years I've used drama therapy, music and art for personal healing and social change in PERSON or ONLINE. Through dialogue, gesture, image, rhythm, collage, diagrams, or enactments, we'll find ways to foster awareness, acceptance and action, to improve the WORLD you live in. I've worked with people in east Africa, Spain, Romania and Virginia. I'll help you grow the SOUL force needed to love even the shyest, shadowy-est elements of your personality.
What dreams will you make come true? What barriers exist, inside you or outside of you? For 30 years I've used drama therapy, music and art for personal healing and social change in PERSON or ONLINE. Through dialogue, gesture, image, rhythm, collage, diagrams, or enactments, we'll find ways to foster awareness, acceptance and action, to improve the WORLD you live in. I've worked with people in east Africa, Spain, Romania and Virginia. I'll help you grow the SOUL force needed to love even the shyest, shadowy-est elements of your personality.
(434) 505-4951 View (434) 505-4951

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Caledonia Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
Caledonia Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stanardsville, VA 22973
I believe that life is magic, and hard! The more support we have the better we can navigate its ups and downs. Growing up in rural Arkansas gave me a unique perspective that has evolved as I have relocated to Virginia, Philadelphia, Ireland and Connecticut, and most recently, back to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. I believe that being a parent is one of life's biggest challenges as well as one of its greatest joys. Whether trying to handle the effects of our own parents' parenting of us, or navigating the sometimes stormy waters as a parent of your own children, the more support you have, the better job you can do.
I believe that life is magic, and hard! The more support we have the better we can navigate its ups and downs. Growing up in rural Arkansas gave me a unique perspective that has evolved as I have relocated to Virginia, Philadelphia, Ireland and Connecticut, and most recently, back to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. I believe that being a parent is one of life's biggest challenges as well as one of its greatest joys. Whether trying to handle the effects of our own parents' parenting of us, or navigating the sometimes stormy waters as a parent of your own children, the more support you have, the better job you can do.
(434) 505-4822 View (434) 505-4822
Photo of Patricia Ann Craven, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
Patricia Ann Craven
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Earlysville, VA 22936
Life can be challenging. My goal is to assist each client to achieve their highest potential. My role may change from being a catalyst for change, to conducting a thorough assessment. Evaluations may assist clients to identify problems that may be interfering with their everyday lives and personal relationships. I utilize my knowledge and education along with many years of experience in counseling in diverse settings and with all age groups. My focus of counseling is to build a safe, trusting relationship with each client with acceptance and without judgment to promote positive change.
Life can be challenging. My goal is to assist each client to achieve their highest potential. My role may change from being a catalyst for change, to conducting a thorough assessment. Evaluations may assist clients to identify problems that may be interfering with their everyday lives and personal relationships. I utilize my knowledge and education along with many years of experience in counseling in diverse settings and with all age groups. My focus of counseling is to build a safe, trusting relationship with each client with acceptance and without judgment to promote positive change.
(434) 280-3323 View (434) 280-3323
Photo of Frances Ingram, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
Frances Ingram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22911
I have experience working with adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a range of life situations such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, sexual abuse/trauma and relationship issues. I am interested in you as an individual and am committed to helping you learn what causes you to be stuck and repeating dysfunctional patterns. My approach is active, direct and flexible. I do not stay stuck in the past, but I do use past trauma as a tool to help you learn how these wounds are causing present day conflict. You will use practical strategies to create a life that meets your emotional, social and spiritual needs.
I have experience working with adolescents, and adults who are struggling with a range of life situations such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, sexual abuse/trauma and relationship issues. I am interested in you as an individual and am committed to helping you learn what causes you to be stuck and repeating dysfunctional patterns. My approach is active, direct and flexible. I do not stay stuck in the past, but I do use past trauma as a tool to help you learn how these wounds are causing present day conflict. You will use practical strategies to create a life that meets your emotional, social and spiritual needs.
(434) 220-0535 View (434) 220-0535
Photo of Angela D'Amelio, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
Angela D'Amelio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22911
Finding the right therapist - one you feel comfortable with, trust, and can be open and honest with - is essential to your healing. I am committed to facilitating an environment of acceptance, hope, and encouragement. I help individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationships, and women's issues. My goal is to help you feel empowered, and to create a balanced life and a renewed relationship with yourself and others. Together, we will develop skills, build emotional strength, and find the path toward living out your goals.
Finding the right therapist - one you feel comfortable with, trust, and can be open and honest with - is essential to your healing. I am committed to facilitating an environment of acceptance, hope, and encouragement. I help individuals who are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationships, and women's issues. My goal is to help you feel empowered, and to create a balanced life and a renewed relationship with yourself and others. Together, we will develop skills, build emotional strength, and find the path toward living out your goals.
(434) 277-2125 View (434) 277-2125

Online Therapists

Photo of The Barker Adoption Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Falls Church, VA 22042
I am an international adoptee and have experience working with adolescents, couples, and families from all walks of life. I also enjoy working with people around the following areas: adoption, foster care, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, ADHD, learning disability, interpersonal relationships, family conflict, life transitions, and crisis interventions.
I am an international adoptee and have experience working with adolescents, couples, and families from all walks of life. I also enjoy working with people around the following areas: adoption, foster care, mood disorders, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, ADHD, learning disability, interpersonal relationships, family conflict, life transitions, and crisis interventions.
(571) 202-7322 x250 View (571) 202-7322 x250
Photo of Ebony Mack, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Ruckersville, VA
Ebony Mack
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
I am skilled at helping clients with challenges around anxiety, depression, adoption, parenting, attachment, family dynamics, trauma, difficulties related to race/gender, and survivors of domestic violence/intimate partner violence/sexual abuse.
Seeking help is often the hardest part of the journey to a healthier way of living. I am here to help you through the next part. Everyone needs space to be seen fully and accepted unconditionally. It is the most humbling experience of my life to hold space for others through difficult moments.
I am skilled at helping clients with challenges around anxiety, depression, adoption, parenting, attachment, family dynamics, trauma, difficulties related to race/gender, and survivors of domestic violence/intimate partner violence/sexual abuse.
Seeking help is often the hardest part of the journey to a healthier way of living. I am here to help you through the next part. Everyone needs space to be seen fully and accepted unconditionally. It is the most humbling experience of my life to hold space for others through difficult moments.
(804) 390-8215 View (804) 390-8215
Photo of Karen Herrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruckersville, VA
Karen Herrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in behavioral, identity and emotional challenges. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from James Madison University and my Master's degree in Mental Health from Eastern Mennonite University. I have experience working with youth and families who are involved with foster care and adoption, youth who had physical, sexual and abusive trauma histories as well as children with attachment issues. I also have experience working with people is all ages who have anxiety and depression.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in behavioral, identity and emotional challenges. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from James Madison University and my Master's degree in Mental Health from Eastern Mennonite University. I have experience working with youth and families who are involved with foster care and adoption, youth who had physical, sexual and abusive trauma histories as well as children with attachment issues. I also have experience working with people is all ages who have anxiety and depression.
(540) 215-8243 View (540) 215-8243
Photo of Katherine Hannon: Fertility & Infertility Therapy, Counselor in Ruckersville, VA
Katherine Hannon: Fertility & Infertility Therapy
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, MA, BCC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Waitlist for new clients
I am experienced working with: * explained/unexplained infertility * male/female factors * secondary Infertility * third-party options like donor egg, donor sperm, embryo adoption * surrogacy * adoption * miscarriage * infant loss * pregnancy and parenting after infertility * high-risk pregnancy * multiple gestation (twins, triplets) * pregnancy reductions * GLBT family building * single motherhood * living child-free.
Finding a therapist who is a great match is essential when you turn to counseling to help build or grow your family. You likely feel stressed, depressed, or isolated as you have encountered setbacks. I help individuals and couples experiencing infertility, coping with pregnancy loss, considering third-party reproduction or adoption, or deciding to live child-free. I have more than 20 years working with RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association. We will work as a team as I teach you to make challenging decisions, manage stress, enhance your relationship, heal from loss, and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.
I am experienced working with: * explained/unexplained infertility * male/female factors * secondary Infertility * third-party options like donor egg, donor sperm, embryo adoption * surrogacy * adoption * miscarriage * infant loss * pregnancy and parenting after infertility * high-risk pregnancy * multiple gestation (twins, triplets) * pregnancy reductions * GLBT family building * single motherhood * living child-free.
Finding a therapist who is a great match is essential when you turn to counseling to help build or grow your family. You likely feel stressed, depressed, or isolated as you have encountered setbacks. I help individuals and couples experiencing infertility, coping with pregnancy loss, considering third-party reproduction or adoption, or deciding to live child-free. I have more than 20 years working with RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association. We will work as a team as I teach you to make challenging decisions, manage stress, enhance your relationship, heal from loss, and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.
(703) 951-4641 View (703) 951-4641
Photo of Mind Chronicles Therapeutic Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruckersville, VA
Mind Chronicles Therapeutic Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Life is an amazing journey but occasionally we encounter many bumps in the road and we lose sight of some of life’s beautiful blessings. These obstacles can be very challenging to manage in the moment, but it is within our darkest moments; where we discover our light. My name is Najah Dail and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia (LPC). I primarily work with adolescents and young adults who are dealing with issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, anger/stress Management, self-image and self-Esteem, depression, emotional regulation, foster care/adoption and grief.
Life is an amazing journey but occasionally we encounter many bumps in the road and we lose sight of some of life’s beautiful blessings. These obstacles can be very challenging to manage in the moment, but it is within our darkest moments; where we discover our light. My name is Najah Dail and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia (LPC). I primarily work with adolescents and young adults who are dealing with issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, anger/stress Management, self-image and self-Esteem, depression, emotional regulation, foster care/adoption and grief.
(571) 378-5012 View (571) 378-5012
Photo of Andrea Zalzal Sanderson, Counselor in Ruckersville, VA
Andrea Zalzal Sanderson
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307
Anxiety, depression, ADHD, infertility, divorce, LGBTQ, adoption, parenting, pre-marital counseling.
At times, we all struggle with the inevitable trials of being human. You may be a parent or partner in a significant relationship struggling with connection, and in need of both practical and emotional support. At times, feelings of anxiety, apathy, and depression arise, and feelings of disconnection and loneliness can take hold. For others, we may be at a crossroads in our life, brought about by divorce, relocation, caregiving for a loved one, or a desire to have a bigger impact in our communities and the world. We may be asking ourselves BIG questions, “what’s next”, “what should I do”, and “what do I want from life”.
Anxiety, depression, ADHD, infertility, divorce, LGBTQ, adoption, parenting, pre-marital counseling.
At times, we all struggle with the inevitable trials of being human. You may be a parent or partner in a significant relationship struggling with connection, and in need of both practical and emotional support. At times, feelings of anxiety, apathy, and depression arise, and feelings of disconnection and loneliness can take hold. For others, we may be at a crossroads in our life, brought about by divorce, relocation, caregiving for a loved one, or a desire to have a bigger impact in our communities and the world. We may be asking ourselves BIG questions, “what’s next”, “what should I do”, and “what do I want from life”.
(571) 252-5549 View (571) 252-5549
Photo of Emma Wanroy, Counselor in Ruckersville, VA
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 Deborah Wolff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
Deborah Wolff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Allen, VA 23059
For over 25 years I have served children, adolescents, families, and adults facing trauma, abuse/neglect, adoption/foster care, autism, and life changes.
The journey of healing begins with that moment of understanding that you, your child, or your family are ready to find a new way to live. Whether the struggle is living with trauma, neurodivergence, behaviors that create chaos, family or relationship conflict, managing "big" feelings and emotions, or are questioning if you can feel anything at all, therapy is an opportunity to uncover the source, recover from the pain, and discover who you (or your child, family or partner) are and meant to be.
For over 25 years I have served children, adolescents, families, and adults facing trauma, abuse/neglect, adoption/foster care, autism, and life changes.
The journey of healing begins with that moment of understanding that you, your child, or your family are ready to find a new way to live. Whether the struggle is living with trauma, neurodivergence, behaviors that create chaos, family or relationship conflict, managing "big" feelings and emotions, or are questioning if you can feel anything at all, therapy is an opportunity to uncover the source, recover from the pain, and discover who you (or your child, family or partner) are and meant to be.
(804) 719-4425 View (804) 719-4425
Photo of Laurie Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
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 Alison Gardner, Psychologist in Ruckersville, VA
Alison Gardner
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
For the past 15 years, I have been committed to working with preschool and school-aged children and their families who are struggling with anxiety and other emotional and behavioral regulation difficulties. I also support children and families through the complicated emotions of divorce, adoption, and other losses as well as the stress and threats to self-esteem that can accompany learning challenges, ADHD and social difficulties. I partner comprehensively with children, parents, schools, and other involved professionals with the aim of building the strongest possible foundation from which children can grow and thrive.
For the past 15 years, I have been committed to working with preschool and school-aged children and their families who are struggling with anxiety and other emotional and behavioral regulation difficulties. I also support children and families through the complicated emotions of divorce, adoption, and other losses as well as the stress and threats to self-esteem that can accompany learning challenges, ADHD and social difficulties. I partner comprehensively with children, parents, schools, and other involved professionals with the aim of building the strongest possible foundation from which children can grow and thrive.
(703) 940-9708 View (703) 940-9708
Photo of Shannon Walsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
Shannon Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herndon, VA 20170  (Online Only)
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.
Accepting new clients! 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.
Accepting new clients! 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 Finding Clarity, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
Finding Clarity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
Your mental and emotional health is just as important as your physical health and well being. Just as you would see your primary doctor to maintain your physical health, counseling is here to help maintain your emotional health. I provide counseling to help individuals and their loved ones address various life issues including (but not limited to): Family and marital conflicts, Problems in school, Depression, family separation, Adoption issues, Feelings of anxiety or nervousness, child and adolescent behavioral issues and Addiction issues. Weekend sessions are available.
(571) 487-8254 View (571) 487-8254
Photo of Landon Sheriff, Licensed Professional Counselor in Ruckersville, VA
Landon Sheriff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mechanicsville, VA 23116  (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 Deborah Sanders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
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 Raven E. Jenerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ruckersville, VA
Raven E. Jenerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
My inclusive, holistic approach integrates trauma-informed, intersectional, cultural and creative practices into my healing work with folx navigating trauma, inner child wounds, low self-esteem, life after foster care or adoption, anxiety, depression, addictions, substance use, triggers or flashbacks associated with intimate partner or sexual violence.
There are many layers and textures in each of our stories and individual healing journeys, that may make us believe that healing is impossible or that inner wellness after trauma is unattainable. You are worthy and capable of the healing you're envisioning. For many of us, a safe healing space is the first step in that journey back to self and is the support we’ve been searching for to become the next best version of ourselves. Together, we co-create the space you need to celebrate your innate wisdom; restore trust in your intuition and voice; and nurture your growth towards more healing and easeful living.
My inclusive, holistic approach integrates trauma-informed, intersectional, cultural and creative practices into my healing work with folx navigating trauma, inner child wounds, low self-esteem, life after foster care or adoption, anxiety, depression, addictions, substance use, triggers or flashbacks associated with intimate partner or sexual violence.
There are many layers and textures in each of our stories and individual healing journeys, that may make us believe that healing is impossible or that inner wellness after trauma is unattainable. You are worthy and capable of the healing you're envisioning. For many of us, a safe healing space is the first step in that journey back to self and is the support we’ve been searching for to become the next best version of ourselves. Together, we co-create the space you need to celebrate your innate wisdom; restore trust in your intuition and voice; and nurture your growth towards more healing and easeful living.
(202) 968-3476 View (202) 968-3476

See more therapy options for Ruckersville

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.