Photo of Dana Nolan, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Dana Nolan
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Many times we feel stuck in unhealthy habits, relationships or emotions. Try as we might, sometimes we just can't get unstuck. That is when most people seek counseling. Our practice focuses on helping our clients reach their personal life goals and to feel their best physically and emotionally...what we like to call Healthy Living! Many years of experience in working with clients of all ages with all types of challenges has shaped my professional philosophy whereby we start where you are today and together we discover your personal strengths and harness those strengths to progress towards your goals.
Many times we feel stuck in unhealthy habits, relationships or emotions. Try as we might, sometimes we just can't get unstuck. That is when most people seek counseling. Our practice focuses on helping our clients reach their personal life goals and to feel their best physically and emotionally...what we like to call Healthy Living! Many years of experience in working with clients of all ages with all types of challenges has shaped my professional philosophy whereby we start where you are today and together we discover your personal strengths and harness those strengths to progress towards your goals.
(407) 901-3446 View (407) 901-3446
Photo of Your Priority Counseling, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Your Priority Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC, MCAP-LP
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714  (Online Only)
This thing called Parenting is no easy feat. In our role as Parents we often Parent, how we have been Parented. With that, there is so much to unpack. Let's explore with intentionally how to set ourselves and our children up for success. You will create your own parenting recipes to pass along. I work with parents and children. I offer individual and family therapy.
This thing called Parenting is no easy feat. In our role as Parents we often Parent, how we have been Parented. With that, there is so much to unpack. Let's explore with intentionally how to set ourselves and our children up for success. You will create your own parenting recipes to pass along. I work with parents and children. I offer individual and family therapy.
(407) 972-1343 View (407) 972-1343
Photo of Angie S Mabe, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Angie S Mabe
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC, Qualifi, Supervi
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
The stress is overwhelming. Anxiety is at an all time high. Life is unpredictable and you don’t know how to cope with work, the kids, their school, and being quarantined. The desire to run from your house and not return has crossed your mind, but you dig deep and tell yourself today will be better. But it isn’t. The anxiety feels like it is going to explode from your chest. It starts settling into depression and you feel like you are walking in a fog. Unable to make decisions, not able to complete tasks, feeling frustrated and annoyed all the time. You just want life to be back to normal and it feels like there is no end in sight.
The stress is overwhelming. Anxiety is at an all time high. Life is unpredictable and you don’t know how to cope with work, the kids, their school, and being quarantined. The desire to run from your house and not return has crossed your mind, but you dig deep and tell yourself today will be better. But it isn’t. The anxiety feels like it is going to explode from your chest. It starts settling into depression and you feel like you are walking in a fog. Unable to make decisions, not able to complete tasks, feeling frustrated and annoyed all the time. You just want life to be back to normal and it feels like there is no end in sight.
(407) 901-5839 View (407) 901-5839
Photo of Christina Milazzo Counseling, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Christina Milazzo Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Specialized therapy for women and teen girls. I focus on women's issues: anxiety, depression, infertility and pregnancy loss, relationship issues, and parenting support for parent's of teen girls. I see women and teen girls who want to build healthier self-esteem, manage their stress and anxiety, process their childhood and and who need support with the unexpected and painful twists and turns life has brought them. Life often doesn't look the way we imagined it would and I want women and young women alike to know that there is a place to process all the emotions that come with that reality.
Specialized therapy for women and teen girls. I focus on women's issues: anxiety, depression, infertility and pregnancy loss, relationship issues, and parenting support for parent's of teen girls. I see women and teen girls who want to build healthier self-esteem, manage their stress and anxiety, process their childhood and and who need support with the unexpected and painful twists and turns life has brought them. Life often doesn't look the way we imagined it would and I want women and young women alike to know that there is a place to process all the emotions that come with that reality.
(407) 972-1021 View (407) 972-1021
Photo of Christie Alvarado-Gutierre, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Altamonte Springs, FL
Christie Alvarado-Gutierre
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
You are doing everything you can as a parent and it still feels like it is not enough. I know you are doing your best, and I'm here to help. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I hold certifications in MATCH (Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, or Conduct Problems), Adoption Competency, and QPR Suicide Triage. I specialize in working with children, adults and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral disorders, and phobias.
You are doing everything you can as a parent and it still feels like it is not enough. I know you are doing your best, and I'm here to help. Fluent in both English and Spanish, I hold certifications in MATCH (Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, or Conduct Problems), Adoption Competency, and QPR Suicide Triage. I specialize in working with children, adults and families navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral disorders, and phobias.
(407) 553-9971 View (407) 553-9971
Photo of Abbe Barclay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Altamonte Springs, FL
Abbe Barclay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LMFT, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Welcome. I specialize in working with sexual addiction, betrayal trauma, and rebuilding your couple-ship following a betrayal. Although I hold a specialty in treating sexual addiction, I treat general marital, and individual issues regularly. Are you keeping sexual secrets from someone you love, or has someone you love betrayed you?. I work with infidelity, communication problems, conflict resolution, divorce, codependency, depression, anxiety,& very importantly, healing trauma. In working through any life challenge,it can be hard. I offer a safe,nuturing place to guide you on your healing journey.. CPTT and CSAT credentials.
Welcome. I specialize in working with sexual addiction, betrayal trauma, and rebuilding your couple-ship following a betrayal. Although I hold a specialty in treating sexual addiction, I treat general marital, and individual issues regularly. Are you keeping sexual secrets from someone you love, or has someone you love betrayed you?. I work with infidelity, communication problems, conflict resolution, divorce, codependency, depression, anxiety,& very importantly, healing trauma. In working through any life challenge,it can be hard. I offer a safe,nuturing place to guide you on your healing journey.. CPTT and CSAT credentials.
(407) 901-3432 View (407) 901-3432
Photo of Heather Esteban, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Heather Esteban
Counselor, MA , LMHC
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Appointments available the same week! Sometimes find that our past coping skills no longer meet our current needs & learning new skills is necessary. Counseling is a place do just that. My approach is to partner with clients to explore their current thoughts feelings, & actions, assist in developing insight about one's self, & provide new coping skills so they have the tools to reach their goals. I have training & experience in Trauma Informed Care, Adoption Competency, & Marriage & Family Therapy.
Appointments available the same week! Sometimes find that our past coping skills no longer meet our current needs & learning new skills is necessary. Counseling is a place do just that. My approach is to partner with clients to explore their current thoughts feelings, & actions, assist in developing insight about one's self, & provide new coping skills so they have the tools to reach their goals. I have training & experience in Trauma Informed Care, Adoption Competency, & Marriage & Family Therapy.
(321) 415-4627 View (321) 415-4627
Photo of Ashleah Zigmond, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Ashleah Zigmond
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701  (Online Only)
Thriving when we are not at our best is difficult. Managing our daily living tasks when feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, triggered, or in pain can be hard without help. Seeking counseling takes a lot of courage. I am motivated to help those who are struggling to find their inner strength & heal from their past experiences. I work with a wide variety of issues, including emotional distress, living with chronic pain & illness, parenting, relationship concerns, grief/loss, and adjusting to life transitions. I would be honored to speak with you and help you come up with a plan to make your life and your relationships better.
Thriving when we are not at our best is difficult. Managing our daily living tasks when feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, fearful, triggered, or in pain can be hard without help. Seeking counseling takes a lot of courage. I am motivated to help those who are struggling to find their inner strength & heal from their past experiences. I work with a wide variety of issues, including emotional distress, living with chronic pain & illness, parenting, relationship concerns, grief/loss, and adjusting to life transitions. I would be honored to speak with you and help you come up with a plan to make your life and your relationships better.
(407) 904-5703 View (407) 904-5703
Photo of Positive Behavioral Solutions, LLC, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Positive Behavioral Solutions, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
We are a trauma informed agency, with specialized adoption competent providers and offer trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
Behavioral Health Agency that provides quality Mental Health Counseling, Social Services, and Psycho-Social Rehabilitation services. Our approach to Therapy and PSR is solution focused, client centered, and insight oriented. Our providers are highly trained and qualified in their respective area of expertise. Individuals seeking to make a positive change in their life are welcome to inquire about our programs. Services can be provided in office, home, or community settings/dependent upon your insurance coverage. We are committed to helping our clients reach their highest potential and welcome the opportunity to earn your trust.
We are a trauma informed agency, with specialized adoption competent providers and offer trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy.
Behavioral Health Agency that provides quality Mental Health Counseling, Social Services, and Psycho-Social Rehabilitation services. Our approach to Therapy and PSR is solution focused, client centered, and insight oriented. Our providers are highly trained and qualified in their respective area of expertise. Individuals seeking to make a positive change in their life are welcome to inquire about our programs. Services can be provided in office, home, or community settings/dependent upon your insurance coverage. We are committed to helping our clients reach their highest potential and welcome the opportunity to earn your trust.
(407) 588-8363 View (407) 588-8363
Photo of Carol Roberts, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Carol Roberts
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 7 years of experience working in the mental health field. My specialty is working with teens and families that are experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, and related issues. I have an extensive background working with Christian populations and diverse communities. Most of my field experience involved providing services in the community, working with youth or post adoption families, and guiding individuals with any traumatic life stressors that may have hindered their mental well-being.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 7 years of experience working in the mental health field. My specialty is working with teens and families that are experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, and related issues. I have an extensive background working with Christian populations and diverse communities. Most of my field experience involved providing services in the community, working with youth or post adoption families, and guiding individuals with any traumatic life stressors that may have hindered their mental well-being.
(833) 407-2409 View (833) 407-2409
Photo of Kimberly D Lincoln, Licensed Professional Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Kimberly D Lincoln
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Kimberly's focus and specialties include: Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Anger Management, LGBTQ+ Youth, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Adoption/Foster Care, Kids involved in the Department of Juvenile Justice, Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Children/Youth with Sexually Reactive Behaviors, Family therapy, and Communication Skills.
Kimberly has experience in working with children, adolescents, families, and couples. She has experience in working with youth in the foster care system, adoptions, traumatized youth, youth with severe behavioral concerns, youth who are experiencing mild to severe emotional distress, as well as youth in the LGBTQ+ population who are transitioning, discovering themselves and their sexuality, and experiencing societal and relationship trauma due to their sexual orientation. Kimberly is an Adoption Competency Certified therapist and has worked with families involved in adopting children from every aspect. Kimberly is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Commercially Sexually Exploited Children.
Kimberly's focus and specialties include: Depression, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Anger Management, LGBTQ+ Youth, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Adoption/Foster Care, Kids involved in the Department of Juvenile Justice, Trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Children/Youth with Sexually Reactive Behaviors, Family therapy, and Communication Skills.
Kimberly has experience in working with children, adolescents, families, and couples. She has experience in working with youth in the foster care system, adoptions, traumatized youth, youth with severe behavioral concerns, youth who are experiencing mild to severe emotional distress, as well as youth in the LGBTQ+ population who are transitioning, discovering themselves and their sexuality, and experiencing societal and relationship trauma due to their sexual orientation. Kimberly is an Adoption Competency Certified therapist and has worked with families involved in adopting children from every aspect. Kimberly is trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Commercially Sexually Exploited Children.
(984) 232-6303 View (984) 232-6303
Photo of Ernie Reilly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altamonte Springs, FL
Ernie Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Dr. Reilly is a Licensed Therapist, Child Therapist, Play Therapist, Adolescent Counselor, Adult Counselor, Family Therapist, Co-parent Counselor, Parent Coach, Sports Therapist, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, Parent Coordinator, Life Coach, & Marriage & Couple's Counselor. For over 20 years he has put his extensive clinical expertise & warm friendly approach towards treating: Children, adults, couples, & families. In addition to having a thriving private practice, Dr. Reilly has taught graduate school at UCF, presents locally and nationally on mental health, has supervised treatment programs for Arnold Palmer Hospital & has won the Central Florida Victim Services Award for mental health treatment. .
Dr. Reilly is a Licensed Therapist, Child Therapist, Play Therapist, Adolescent Counselor, Adult Counselor, Family Therapist, Co-parent Counselor, Parent Coach, Sports Therapist, Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator, Parent Coordinator, Life Coach, & Marriage & Couple's Counselor. For over 20 years he has put his extensive clinical expertise & warm friendly approach towards treating: Children, adults, couples, & families. In addition to having a thriving private practice, Dr. Reilly has taught graduate school at UCF, presents locally and nationally on mental health, has supervised treatment programs for Arnold Palmer Hospital & has won the Central Florida Victim Services Award for mental health treatment. .
(407) 258-1846 View (407) 258-1846
Photo of Jo Ann C. Simmons, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Jo Ann C. Simmons
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RCC
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701  (Online Only)
“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive.” – Brené Brown. The ability to understand yourself is within reach. Your quality of life improves dramatically as you take care of your emotional, physical, social, occupational, spiritual, and intellectual wellness. Receive guidance from a lifelong learner who offers new ideas to gain emotional wholeness. With over 25 years of counseling experience, I invite you to explore your inner life in order to thrive! Your psychological pain can be healed. I always keep your highest good in mind.
“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive.” – Brené Brown. The ability to understand yourself is within reach. Your quality of life improves dramatically as you take care of your emotional, physical, social, occupational, spiritual, and intellectual wellness. Receive guidance from a lifelong learner who offers new ideas to gain emotional wholeness. With over 25 years of counseling experience, I invite you to explore your inner life in order to thrive! Your psychological pain can be healed. I always keep your highest good in mind.
(407) 537-6921 View (407) 537-6921
Photo of Brianna Kegelman, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Brianna Kegelman
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Hi there, Congrats on making it to this step! Looking into therapy can be overwhelming, whether it is your first time or your familiar with it. You may think, is this really for me? I am here to tell you that you are not alone in this journey. I believe therapy is for anyone and everyone. Whether you are going through a crisis or not, having someone unbiased to talk to can help. You have to find the right fit and I hope I can be that, but if not I would love to provide you with other resources. I believe in making therapy an accepting and safe place that provides compassion, honesty, and focusing on Progress rather than Perfection.
Hi there, Congrats on making it to this step! Looking into therapy can be overwhelming, whether it is your first time or your familiar with it. You may think, is this really for me? I am here to tell you that you are not alone in this journey. I believe therapy is for anyone and everyone. Whether you are going through a crisis or not, having someone unbiased to talk to can help. You have to find the right fit and I hope I can be that, but if not I would love to provide you with other resources. I believe in making therapy an accepting and safe place that provides compassion, honesty, and focusing on Progress rather than Perfection.
(407) 479-8813 View (407) 479-8813
Photo of Karla Bilderbeck, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Karla Bilderbeck
Counselor, LMHC , ATR
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Is anxiety running you around all over the place? Feeling hopeless? Let's get your hope back! Are you looking for a place you can feel safe enough to say everything you need to? I offer a safe space for healing such issues as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, self esteem, sexual abuse, family conflict and personal growth. I have over 20 years experience with individuals and families in evidence based therapy. I am EMDR and A.R.T. certified and have special training in treating adoption and mood issues. Therapy can be a path to empowerment. Let's work together to get your life back on track. You're worth it!
Is anxiety running you around all over the place? Feeling hopeless? Let's get your hope back! Are you looking for a place you can feel safe enough to say everything you need to? I offer a safe space for healing such issues as anxiety, depression, childhood trauma, self esteem, sexual abuse, family conflict and personal growth. I have over 20 years experience with individuals and families in evidence based therapy. I am EMDR and A.R.T. certified and have special training in treating adoption and mood issues. Therapy can be a path to empowerment. Let's work together to get your life back on track. You're worth it!
(407) 449-8028 View (407) 449-8028
Photo of Carmen McGuinness in Altamonte Springs, FL
Carmen McGuinness
EdD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
I'm a Board Certified Behavior Analyst providing Attachment Focused Behavior Analytic treatment incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I work on a HIPAA-secure video platform or on-site. My clients are children and parents, as well as adults and couples. My areas of specialization include behaviors related to relationship difficulties, infidelity and betrayal trauma, panic disorder, generalized anxiety, non-clinical depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, separation anxiety, and reactive attachment disorder, I also work with children, adolescents, and adults with attention, learning, and developmental disabilities..
I'm a Board Certified Behavior Analyst providing Attachment Focused Behavior Analytic treatment incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I work on a HIPAA-secure video platform or on-site. My clients are children and parents, as well as adults and couples. My areas of specialization include behaviors related to relationship difficulties, infidelity and betrayal trauma, panic disorder, generalized anxiety, non-clinical depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, separation anxiety, and reactive attachment disorder, I also work with children, adolescents, and adults with attention, learning, and developmental disabilities..
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Photo of Andrea J Garwood, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Andrea J Garwood
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701
Over 25 years working with individuals and families. Over 18 years providing supervision to other mental health professionals and interns. My goal is to help you resolve emotional trauma or confusion, in a compassionate and non judgmental way. I am exp. in working with individuals coping with life-altering circumstances and illness, mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, recovery, grief and loss, relationship stressors, and spiritual crisis. I also specialize in relationship counseling, trauma and recovery issues such as sexual abuse. I am experienced serving those with medical issues-HIV/AIDS, Breast cancer, PTSD and phobias. I'm also experienced serving military families and veterans.
Over 25 years working with individuals and families. Over 18 years providing supervision to other mental health professionals and interns. My goal is to help you resolve emotional trauma or confusion, in a compassionate and non judgmental way. I am exp. in working with individuals coping with life-altering circumstances and illness, mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, recovery, grief and loss, relationship stressors, and spiritual crisis. I also specialize in relationship counseling, trauma and recovery issues such as sexual abuse. I am experienced serving those with medical issues-HIV/AIDS, Breast cancer, PTSD and phobias. I'm also experienced serving military families and veterans.
(407) 583-6176 View (407) 583-6176
Photo of Renata Cerveira, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
Renata Cerveira
Counselor, MA, LMHC, Qualifi, Supervi
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714  (Online Only)
I am fascinated about how the brain works and how behavior can be adapted and changed if we allow it to happen.I support anxious and depressed people who truly desire to renewal their souls. Self-esteem, stress and conflict management, codependency, and parenting skills are some of the areas that rise my interest. I am specialized in blended and multicultural families. I am fluent in Spanish and Portuguese.
I am fascinated about how the brain works and how behavior can be adapted and changed if we allow it to happen.I support anxious and depressed people who truly desire to renewal their souls. Self-esteem, stress and conflict management, codependency, and parenting skills are some of the areas that rise my interest. I am specialized in blended and multicultural families. I am fluent in Spanish and Portuguese.
(321) 926-4049 View (321) 926-4049
Photo of A Better Life and Community, LLC, Counselor in Altamonte Springs, FL
A Better Life and Community, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
"Counseling wherever and whenever you are ready". Providing mental health and substance abuse services for the past eight (8) years to children, adolescents, and adults has made me a firm believer that access to counseling services should be a human right and not a privilege due to socioeconomic status.
"Counseling wherever and whenever you are ready". Providing mental health and substance abuse services for the past eight (8) years to children, adolescents, and adults has made me a firm believer that access to counseling services should be a human right and not a privilege due to socioeconomic status.
(321) 419-1241 View (321) 419-1241
Photo of Jan Hamill, Psychotherapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Altamonte Springs, FL
Jan Hamill, Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714  (Online Only)
Are you feeling defeated? I am an experienced psychotherapist with 20 year's experience in mental health, addictions and life coaching. I provide a trusting and caring environment while assisting you find your inner peace and emotional wellness. Some of the areas I have expertise in include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, bipolar disorder, family issues, substance abuse, grief and loss. My therapy approaches include a mix of DBT, Mindfulness, CBT, Psychodynamic and Family Systems. I offer individual and couples therapy via telehealth. Please feel free to call me and briefly discuss your issues at 301-765-9475.
Are you feeling defeated? I am an experienced psychotherapist with 20 year's experience in mental health, addictions and life coaching. I provide a trusting and caring environment while assisting you find your inner peace and emotional wellness. Some of the areas I have expertise in include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, bipolar disorder, family issues, substance abuse, grief and loss. My therapy approaches include a mix of DBT, Mindfulness, CBT, Psychodynamic and Family Systems. I offer individual and couples therapy via telehealth. Please feel free to call me and briefly discuss your issues at 301-765-9475.
(386) 649-2385 View (386) 649-2385

See more therapy options for Altamonte Springs

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.