Photo of The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95826
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
(916) 269-3522 View (916) 269-3522
Photo of Elisa Louizos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Elisa Louizos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811
I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families: working on the frontline of CPS assessing risk and nurturing family resilience, working in adoption agencies to help families create and maintain lifelong connections, and providing in-home therapeutic parenting services to struggling families.
I imagine you're here because you feel like something needs to change. It's reassuring to know it's never too late to ignite curiosity about what's happening, develop closer, healthier family connections, and learn to assert yourself more successfully as a parent. It takes courage to let go of what's limiting you to make room for a happier life. I can support you and your child(ren) through this process by identifying, understanding, and reworking ineffective patterns and building new skills to reduce conflict and create a better life for your family.
I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families: working on the frontline of CPS assessing risk and nurturing family resilience, working in adoption agencies to help families create and maintain lifelong connections, and providing in-home therapeutic parenting services to struggling families.
I imagine you're here because you feel like something needs to change. It's reassuring to know it's never too late to ignite curiosity about what's happening, develop closer, healthier family connections, and learn to assert yourself more successfully as a parent. It takes courage to let go of what's limiting you to make room for a happier life. I can support you and your child(ren) through this process by identifying, understanding, and reworking ineffective patterns and building new skills to reduce conflict and create a better life for your family.
(916) 884-6156 View (916) 884-6156
Photo of D. Meghan French, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
D. Meghan French
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I also specialize in families who've come together through adoption.
Welcome! I appreciate you stopping at my page. Stress, depression, anxiety and grief can rob us of the energy to enjoy life and stay connected with the people around us. I became a therapist in the hopes of helping people find peace, happiness and wellbeing. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment wherein you can share your story and we can work together to find meaningful and lasting change.
I also specialize in families who've come together through adoption.
Welcome! I appreciate you stopping at my page. Stress, depression, anxiety and grief can rob us of the energy to enjoy life and stay connected with the people around us. I became a therapist in the hopes of helping people find peace, happiness and wellbeing. I strive to create a safe, supportive environment wherein you can share your story and we can work together to find meaningful and lasting change.
(916) 694-1840 View (916) 694-1840
Photo of Debra A. Wiegel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Debra A. Wiegel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
Parents say they are grateful to have a therapist who is compassionate and direct, understanding that adoption is the solution; trauma is the problem.
I believe we all have a wise woman or wise man inside us who tells us our truth. Most of us have been conditioned to disregard this inner voice. My goal is to ask the questions that enable you to know what is true for you and to provide the support you need to act on this truth.
Parents say they are grateful to have a therapist who is compassionate and direct, understanding that adoption is the solution; trauma is the problem.
I believe we all have a wise woman or wise man inside us who tells us our truth. Most of us have been conditioned to disregard this inner voice. My goal is to ask the questions that enable you to know what is true for you and to provide the support you need to act on this truth.
(530) 408-5207 View (530) 408-5207
Photo of Debra McJimsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Debra McJimsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95864
I specialize adoption issues, including counseling adult adoptees, birthparents, adoptive parents and adoptive children including attachment, adjustment, unplanned pregnancy, multiracial family building, and managing stress due to waiting and uncertainties of the adoption process.
Are you looking for a therapist that is a good fit for you? Searching for the right therapist is challenging! This information may give you a sense of what it would be like to work together. Feel free to call or email if you have any questions. I offer a free telephone consultation, and offer excellent referrals if I am not the right fit for your particular circumstance. I work with individuals and couples and children on a wide range of issues including anxiety, perfectionism, support through life-transistions or re-connecting/ rekindling loving feelings.
I specialize adoption issues, including counseling adult adoptees, birthparents, adoptive parents and adoptive children including attachment, adjustment, unplanned pregnancy, multiracial family building, and managing stress due to waiting and uncertainties of the adoption process.
Are you looking for a therapist that is a good fit for you? Searching for the right therapist is challenging! This information may give you a sense of what it would be like to work together. Feel free to call or email if you have any questions. I offer a free telephone consultation, and offer excellent referrals if I am not the right fit for your particular circumstance. I work with individuals and couples and children on a wide range of issues including anxiety, perfectionism, support through life-transistions or re-connecting/ rekindling loving feelings.
(916) 404-4273 View (916) 404-4273
Photo of Stephanie Domek, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Stephanie Domek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I meet with parents who are struggling with a variety of challenges including transitioning into parenthood, co-parenting, managing a child's challenging behavioral or emotional issues, balancing caregiving responsibilities with other aspects of life, foster/adoption, or relating to and caring for a child with special needs. I help to develop strength and confidence for the challenges of parenthood by partnering with the caregiver at any stage of parenthood. I help improve the quality of relationships between parents and their children.
I meet with parents who are struggling with a variety of challenges including transitioning into parenthood, co-parenting, managing a child's challenging behavioral or emotional issues, balancing caregiving responsibilities with other aspects of life, foster/adoption, or relating to and caring for a child with special needs. I help to develop strength and confidence for the challenges of parenthood by partnering with the caregiver at any stage of parenthood. I help improve the quality of relationships between parents and their children.
(916) 347-9444 View (916) 347-9444
Photo of Traci Bianchi Templin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Traci Bianchi Templin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I am a TAC-Certified Therapist (Training for Adoption Competency- Center for Adoption Support and Education).
Welcome! I offer support for your journey to a balanced, peaceful, and happy life. I have a passion for guiding clients through their journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness in life. I view therapy as a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. I support my client's unique individuality, life experience, and their personal story. I value openness, acceptance, and laughter, and I strongly believe that we are all in a lifelong process of growth and change. Using empathy and compassion, I provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns.
I am a TAC-Certified Therapist (Training for Adoption Competency- Center for Adoption Support and Education).
Welcome! I offer support for your journey to a balanced, peaceful, and happy life. I have a passion for guiding clients through their journey of finding peace, balance, and happiness in life. I view therapy as a collaborative effort between the client and the therapist. I support my client's unique individuality, life experience, and their personal story. I value openness, acceptance, and laughter, and I strongly believe that we are all in a lifelong process of growth and change. Using empathy and compassion, I provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns.
(916) 727-6454 View (916) 727-6454
Photo of Kristen McQuary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Kristen McQuary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
I have worked with clients who face infertility and are navigating the adoption process.
I specialize in counseling adolescents and adults, although I am not limited to that demographic. I also enjoy working with couples. I help clients discover that they have the power within them to overcome obstacles, to express their needs and wants appropriately and make the choice to reach their goals.
I have worked with clients who face infertility and are navigating the adoption process.
I specialize in counseling adolescents and adults, although I am not limited to that demographic. I also enjoy working with couples. I help clients discover that they have the power within them to overcome obstacles, to express their needs and wants appropriately and make the choice to reach their goals.
(916) 634-1209 View (916) 634-1209
Photo of Kyla M Ramirez, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Sacramento, CA
Kyla M Ramirez
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MA, MS, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95814
I have worked in the field of child-welfare for over 10 years, and have experience in working with juvenile justice, child welfare, adoption and the systems of care.
Life can be incredibly difficult at times and can feel overwhelming. It is my goal to empower my clients to believe in themselves, inspire change, and to allow space for self-love. When feelings of depression and anxiety are barriers to achieving your goals, leaving you feeling unworthy of happiness, and effecting your relationships, I am here to assist you in cultivating a sense of purpose and confidence. I want to help my clients set goals for their future, find their happiness, and thrive. I am here to provide a space for you to be you- your authentic self without judgement.
I have worked in the field of child-welfare for over 10 years, and have experience in working with juvenile justice, child welfare, adoption and the systems of care.
Life can be incredibly difficult at times and can feel overwhelming. It is my goal to empower my clients to believe in themselves, inspire change, and to allow space for self-love. When feelings of depression and anxiety are barriers to achieving your goals, leaving you feeling unworthy of happiness, and effecting your relationships, I am here to assist you in cultivating a sense of purpose and confidence. I want to help my clients set goals for their future, find their happiness, and thrive. I am here to provide a space for you to be you- your authentic self without judgement.
(530) 631-3140 View (530) 631-3140
Photo of Karisa L Barrow, Psychologist in Sacramento, CA
Karisa L Barrow
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95811
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties: Gender and Sexuality, Foster Care/Adoption, Parenting Work & Trauma Areas of Focus: Adjustment, Depression & Anxiety, Children with Developmental, Emotional & Behavioral Difficulties, Parenting Consultation & Collaboration, Trauma, Loss, Dying & Bereavement.
I strive to create an authentic connection with my clients so we can develop an effective partnership in which healing, trying on new ways of thinking, and exploring change can happen safely. I believe that the foundation of mutual trust, empathy, and curiosity that I create with my clients will help them build meaningful relationships with others, mend old wounds, and learn more about themselves and how they contribute to their struggles. Helping my clients see themselves through a new lens will help them achieve the growth and fulfillment they want in their lives. Please don't hesitate to call for help.
Specialties: Gender and Sexuality, Foster Care/Adoption, Parenting Work & Trauma Areas of Focus: Adjustment, Depression & Anxiety, Children with Developmental, Emotional & Behavioral Difficulties, Parenting Consultation & Collaboration, Trauma, Loss, Dying & Bereavement.
I strive to create an authentic connection with my clients so we can develop an effective partnership in which healing, trying on new ways of thinking, and exploring change can happen safely. I believe that the foundation of mutual trust, empathy, and curiosity that I create with my clients will help them build meaningful relationships with others, mend old wounds, and learn more about themselves and how they contribute to their struggles. Helping my clients see themselves through a new lens will help them achieve the growth and fulfillment they want in their lives. Please don't hesitate to call for help.
(415) 640-1034 View (415) 640-1034
Photo of Bonnie Wagner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Bonnie Wagner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95834
I offer a wide variety of Therapy for the following: Grief/Loss, (including pets) Divorce, Custody Issues, Infertility, Depression, Anxiety, Abuse, Adoption, Attachment, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Blended Family Problems, Relationship Challenges, Difficult children/teen behaviors at home and/or school, ADHD, Family History of Drug/Alcohol Addictions, Self Esteem, Parenting, Grandparents raising Grandchildren, and more.
Hello, I'm Bonnie Wagner, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with individual adults, couples, children/teens (birth to 18 years) and families, for over 25 years. I have a great deal of experience as a therapist, helping people develop treatment goals which assist them in achieving the most optimal and positive outcomes for themselves.
I offer a wide variety of Therapy for the following: Grief/Loss, (including pets) Divorce, Custody Issues, Infertility, Depression, Anxiety, Abuse, Adoption, Attachment, Domestic Violence, Trauma, Blended Family Problems, Relationship Challenges, Difficult children/teen behaviors at home and/or school, ADHD, Family History of Drug/Alcohol Addictions, Self Esteem, Parenting, Grandparents raising Grandchildren, and more.
Hello, I'm Bonnie Wagner, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys working with individual adults, couples, children/teens (birth to 18 years) and families, for over 25 years. I have a great deal of experience as a therapist, helping people develop treatment goals which assist them in achieving the most optimal and positive outcomes for themselves.
(916) 546-1504 View (916) 546-1504
Photo of Everson Psychotherapy, Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Everson Psychotherapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95864
Waitlist for new clients
I commend you for searching for help! My empathetic, caring, and encouraging approach along with my education, specialized training, and life experiences continues to be of help to most people, while having a niche with tween/teen boys, men, veterans, couples, and parents. My life experience with adoption, military life, leading non-profits, marital challenges, men's issues, raising teens, overcoming addictions, and struggles with faith may also help you. Training to help with trauma, addictions, depression, and anxiety with Brainspotting and EMDR can provide the healing you and your loved one's have been seeking for some time.
I commend you for searching for help! My empathetic, caring, and encouraging approach along with my education, specialized training, and life experiences continues to be of help to most people, while having a niche with tween/teen boys, men, veterans, couples, and parents. My life experience with adoption, military life, leading non-profits, marital challenges, men's issues, raising teens, overcoming addictions, and struggles with faith may also help you. Training to help with trauma, addictions, depression, and anxiety with Brainspotting and EMDR can provide the healing you and your loved one's have been seeking for some time.
(916) 597-1107 View (916) 597-1107
Photo of Dania M Martinez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Dania M Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95814
I have worked with children and families for over ten years, most of which was in wraparound supporting family reunification, adoption and emancipation for children in child welfare, adoption and juvenile justice system.
Have you been feeling depressed, anxious or just overwhelmed with life? Are you ready for change? My goal as a therapist is to inspire motivation and purpose, and to support individuals and families in reaching their goals. when circumstances seem impossible, my aim is to help you find the tools you need to overcome life's challenges. I work diligently to empower individuals to look inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose. Watching people grow, while discovering their true selves and their life potential, is a very rewarding experience for me.
I have worked with children and families for over ten years, most of which was in wraparound supporting family reunification, adoption and emancipation for children in child welfare, adoption and juvenile justice system.
Have you been feeling depressed, anxious or just overwhelmed with life? Are you ready for change? My goal as a therapist is to inspire motivation and purpose, and to support individuals and families in reaching their goals. when circumstances seem impossible, my aim is to help you find the tools you need to overcome life's challenges. I work diligently to empower individuals to look inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose. Watching people grow, while discovering their true selves and their life potential, is a very rewarding experience for me.
(424) 379-5249 View (424) 379-5249
Photo of Family Blueprint, Psychologist in Sacramento, CA
Family Blueprint
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95822
As a parent, you just want to know that you’re doing a great job. We want something that feels like it should be simple: deep connections with our children, meeting their needs, creating beautiful memories, and preparing them to succeed as adults without sacrificing your own ambitions. The truth is that it’s really complicated to parent when chaos and distraction abound - whether it be the bigger social issues that add stress to your life like pandemics, political distrust, and the economy, or the household ones like conflict with your children, cell phones and technology, bullying, marital problems, or mental health issues.
As a parent, you just want to know that you’re doing a great job. We want something that feels like it should be simple: deep connections with our children, meeting their needs, creating beautiful memories, and preparing them to succeed as adults without sacrificing your own ambitions. The truth is that it’s really complicated to parent when chaos and distraction abound - whether it be the bigger social issues that add stress to your life like pandemics, political distrust, and the economy, or the household ones like conflict with your children, cell phones and technology, bullying, marital problems, or mental health issues.
(530) 428-8280 View (530) 428-8280
Photo of Edythe Swidler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Edythe Swidler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95864
During these stressful times, many of us are experiencing higher levels of anxiety and/or sadness. Are you worried about your child or teen, concerned about your marriage or struggling with family relationships? Do you need new tools to help you feel more confident in parenting your adopted or special needs child/teen? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community who is looking for a supportive therapist who understands your unique strengths and challenges. I created American River Family Counseling because I believe that we all deserve happy, healthy and connected relationships.
During these stressful times, many of us are experiencing higher levels of anxiety and/or sadness. Are you worried about your child or teen, concerned about your marriage or struggling with family relationships? Do you need new tools to help you feel more confident in parenting your adopted or special needs child/teen? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community who is looking for a supportive therapist who understands your unique strengths and challenges. I created American River Family Counseling because I believe that we all deserve happy, healthy and connected relationships.
(916) 304-8410 View (916) 304-8410
Photo of Indigena Counseling and Wellness Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Indigena Counseling and Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Indigena provides intensives for groups, teams and individuals. We offer a bottom up approach which supports lasting results via tapping directly into the regulating centers of the brain. Indigena offers brain & nervous system-based approaches which tap into body's own innate mechanisms for healing. We offer an integrative individualized approach with both a therapy & wellness center in one place that will support movement towards healthier connection, trauma resolution, self-understanding, self-care, burnout prevention, stress reduction, increased awareness of mind/body connection & improved relationships.
Indigena provides intensives for groups, teams and individuals. We offer a bottom up approach which supports lasting results via tapping directly into the regulating centers of the brain. Indigena offers brain & nervous system-based approaches which tap into body's own innate mechanisms for healing. We offer an integrative individualized approach with both a therapy & wellness center in one place that will support movement towards healthier connection, trauma resolution, self-understanding, self-care, burnout prevention, stress reduction, increased awareness of mind/body connection & improved relationships.
(279) 465-0341 View (279) 465-0341
Photo of Kaylee Jensen, Psychologist in Sacramento, CA
Kaylee Jensen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95823  (Online Only)
Do you or your child struggle with anxious thinking, depression, or explosive behaviors? Issues such as these can feel overwhelming and exhausting. It can be challenging to see the light at the end of the tunnel. It can be easy to practice avoidance and find ourselves pretending these challenges aren’t there or wishing them away. However, navigating these issues don't need to be so daunting! I believe there is always room for change and hope for strengthened relationships.
Do you or your child struggle with anxious thinking, depression, or explosive behaviors? Issues such as these can feel overwhelming and exhausting. It can be challenging to see the light at the end of the tunnel. It can be easy to practice avoidance and find ourselves pretending these challenges aren’t there or wishing them away. However, navigating these issues don't need to be so daunting! I believe there is always room for change and hope for strengthened relationships.
(916) 536-7081 View (916) 536-7081
Photo of Optimal Neurofeedback in Sacramento, CA
Optimal Neurofeedback
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95815
Are you, or your child, struggling with ADHD, sleep problems, anxiety, depression, Traumatic Brain Injury, PTSD, Autistic, Attachment or Neurodevelopment disorders? Are the symptoms making school, family and/or work life difficult? Or, are you an athlete or business person who excels but wants to perform even better? Perhaps you are spiritual and wanting to improve your meditation or mindfulness practice. Neurofeedback provides you healing, relief and peak performance through its' non-invasive use of neurologically relevant feedback by sound and sight cues to gently inform your brain toward what is naturally best for it.
Are you, or your child, struggling with ADHD, sleep problems, anxiety, depression, Traumatic Brain Injury, PTSD, Autistic, Attachment or Neurodevelopment disorders? Are the symptoms making school, family and/or work life difficult? Or, are you an athlete or business person who excels but wants to perform even better? Perhaps you are spiritual and wanting to improve your meditation or mindfulness practice. Neurofeedback provides you healing, relief and peak performance through its' non-invasive use of neurologically relevant feedback by sound and sight cues to gently inform your brain toward what is naturally best for it.
(916) 668-5906 View (916) 668-5906
Photo of Stephanie Beermann, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Stephanie Beermann, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95834
I look to create a safe space for my clients, whether it be children, adolescents, adults, families or couples to support progress towards mental health. I enjoy working with a diverse population of individuals and supporting them on their paths. I consider any I spend with clients an honor and privilege. It is not easy to share with others. I work to provide a validating experience for my clients while also remaining attuned to their emotions and needs. I provide Brainspotting, Experiential, CBT, Insight-Oriented and other somatic interventions.
I look to create a safe space for my clients, whether it be children, adolescents, adults, families or couples to support progress towards mental health. I enjoy working with a diverse population of individuals and supporting them on their paths. I consider any I spend with clients an honor and privilege. It is not easy to share with others. I work to provide a validating experience for my clients while also remaining attuned to their emotions and needs. I provide Brainspotting, Experiential, CBT, Insight-Oriented and other somatic interventions.
(530) 394-3040 View (530) 394-3040
Photo of Darlene A. Obregon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sacramento, CA
Darlene A. Obregon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
Hi, my name is Darlene. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I am have experience working with couples in re-establishing safety and connection in relationships. I have worked with couples with infidelity, separation and high conflict. I am also passionate about working with individuals in helping them unpack childhood emotional trauma wounds, to foster new healthy attachments. I have 10 years experience working with children and families. In family work, I help to restore connection, trust and belonging.
Hi, my name is Darlene. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I am have experience working with couples in re-establishing safety and connection in relationships. I have worked with couples with infidelity, separation and high conflict. I am also passionate about working with individuals in helping them unpack childhood emotional trauma wounds, to foster new healthy attachments. I have 10 years experience working with children and families. In family work, I help to restore connection, trust and belonging.
(916) 943-4076 View (916) 943-4076
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.