Adoption Therapists in Lattingtown, NY

Photo of Dorothy S. Hyde, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lattingtown, NY
Dorothy S. Hyde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DCSW, LCSW, ACSW, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lattingtown, NY 11560
I believe in the dignity of every person and that we have the answers within ourselves. I will help you make the connections and you will be able to experience your best self. As an EMDRIA Approved Consultant and a Clinical Hypnotherapist , I always use the most recent therapeutic techniques that are are specifically designed for you..
I believe in the dignity of every person and that we have the answers within ourselves. I will help you make the connections and you will be able to experience your best self. As an EMDRIA Approved Consultant and a Clinical Hypnotherapist , I always use the most recent therapeutic techniques that are are specifically designed for you..
(516) 324-4070 View (516) 324-4070

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janeen Mary Chasan, Art Therapist in Lattingtown, NY
Janeen Mary Chasan
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Woodbury, NY 11797
My clients struggle with challenges surrounding: ☑️ Grief and Loss ☑️ Adoption ☑️ Chronic Medical Illness .
I help people to resolve life’s struggles and transform via the creative process. Life's stressors can sometimes induce emotional tension, physical problems and other related symptoms. This impairs our ability to function at our full potential . The purpose of psychotherapy is to provide a comfortable, safe setting where issues are clearly assessed and a plan for resolution is established. As a knowledgable clinician, I provide the best opportunity for successfully accomplishing this goal.
My clients struggle with challenges surrounding: ☑️ Grief and Loss ☑️ Adoption ☑️ Chronic Medical Illness .
I help people to resolve life’s struggles and transform via the creative process. Life's stressors can sometimes induce emotional tension, physical problems and other related symptoms. This impairs our ability to function at our full potential . The purpose of psychotherapy is to provide a comfortable, safe setting where issues are clearly assessed and a plan for resolution is established. As a knowledgable clinician, I provide the best opportunity for successfully accomplishing this goal.
(516) 518-4120 View (516) 518-4120
Photo of Ash Psychological Services LLC, Psychologist in Lattingtown, NY
Ash Psychological Services LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Currently closed to new therapy clients. Open for pre adoption psych evaluations, supervision of other professionals, and brief parenting, career, or health coaching clients. Closed now for: Individual therapy and couples counseling.
Currently closed to new therapy clients. Open for pre adoption psych evaluations, supervision of other professionals, and brief parenting, career, or health coaching clients. Closed now for: Individual therapy and couples counseling.
(631) 892-6261 View (631) 892-6261
Photo of Amy A. Hecht, Psychologist in Lattingtown, NY
Amy A. Hecht
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Rye, NY 10580
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a special clinical concentration in relationships, couples and adoption.
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with a special clinical concentration in relationships, couples and adoption.
Anais Nin said, "There comes a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud is more painful than the risk it takes to blossom. " Psychotherapy is sometimes the most effective way to begin to blossom. The slow and comfortable establishment of mutual trust will come first as we work to fully understand your unique personality and situation. Together we will explore the the source(s) of pain or struggle in your life & identify practical, workable solutions. You & I will work as a team to ensure you have the support you need as you begin to feel better about yourself and your life.
(917) 652-6857 View (917) 652-6857
Photo of Carolyn Berger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lattingtown, NY
Carolyn Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Larchmont, NY 10538
Since my own family was created through both fertility treatment and adoption, I am empathic and compassionate as well as qualified to help you.
For many, the path to parenthood isn't easy. I have been helping couples and individuals create families for over 25 years. My practice is devoted to infertility, adoption and all forms of family building. I counsel couples and individuals coping with infertility, pregnancy loss, IVF and other family building options including donor egg/sperm/embryo and compassionate surrogacy. I educate people about adoption and offer support and guidance throughout the process. I coach parents on how to talk to their child about their beginnings. I also do assessments of egg donors and intended parents interviews for IVF centers.
Since my own family was created through both fertility treatment and adoption, I am empathic and compassionate as well as qualified to help you.
For many, the path to parenthood isn't easy. I have been helping couples and individuals create families for over 25 years. My practice is devoted to infertility, adoption and all forms of family building. I counsel couples and individuals coping with infertility, pregnancy loss, IVF and other family building options including donor egg/sperm/embryo and compassionate surrogacy. I educate people about adoption and offer support and guidance throughout the process. I coach parents on how to talk to their child about their beginnings. I also do assessments of egg donors and intended parents interviews for IVF centers.
(914) 359-2110 View (914) 359-2110
Photo of Women's Mental Health (Centered Living Psychological Services) Kalli Feldman, Psychologist in Lattingtown, NY
Women's Mental Health (Centered Living Psychological Services) Kalli Feldman
Psychologist, PhD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
I have expertise in perinatal mental health, attachment and trauma, parenting, identity development, and transracial adoption and am a certified perinatal mental health provider and parenting facilitator.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in NYC with well over a decade of clinical experience empowering and supporting women and families through life transitions, losses, and breaking distressing energy draining cycles. Are you struggling in relationships, harshly self-critical, unsure of next steps in building the life you want, a new or seasoned parent and feeling triggered and overwhelmed, or experiencing a recent change or loss? Our work together will help you better attune to yourself and build a life that feels centered, authentic, full and joyful.
I have expertise in perinatal mental health, attachment and trauma, parenting, identity development, and transracial adoption and am a certified perinatal mental health provider and parenting facilitator.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in NYC with well over a decade of clinical experience empowering and supporting women and families through life transitions, losses, and breaking distressing energy draining cycles. Are you struggling in relationships, harshly self-critical, unsure of next steps in building the life you want, a new or seasoned parent and feeling triggered and overwhelmed, or experiencing a recent change or loss? Our work together will help you better attune to yourself and build a life that feels centered, authentic, full and joyful.
(929) 732-7432 View (929) 732-7432
Photo of Sally Barbour Branch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lattingtown, NY
Sally Barbour Branch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
These are some of my specialty areas: Couples Therapy; Grief and Loss; Perinatal Loss; Infertility and adoption; Women's issues.
I am Bilingual/Bicultural and have over 28 years experience treating Individuals and Couples. Conflicts impeding communication and resolution of self-destructive behaviors are typical concerns raised in therapy. Clients often are looking for new strategies to help cope with life's changing circumstances and to remove obstacles preventing growth. To explore these issues, a safe and confidential environment must be established. I am dedicated to working with care, compassion and respect for my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
These are some of my specialty areas: Couples Therapy; Grief and Loss; Perinatal Loss; Infertility and adoption; Women's issues.
I am Bilingual/Bicultural and have over 28 years experience treating Individuals and Couples. Conflicts impeding communication and resolution of self-destructive behaviors are typical concerns raised in therapy. Clients often are looking for new strategies to help cope with life's changing circumstances and to remove obstacles preventing growth. To explore these issues, a safe and confidential environment must be established. I am dedicated to working with care, compassion and respect for my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
(847) 920-7459 View (847) 920-7459
Photo of Elissa Sheinkin, Counselor in Lattingtown, NY
Elissa Sheinkin
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, BCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030
I have extensive experience in crisis counseling for the dying and the bereft. I work with bereaved children and adults, counseling families suffering from loss or trauma, long-term and short-term illness, and other major life changes and challenges including divorce, infertility, job loss, and adoption. My experience is in both private practice and with Hospice Care Network. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York, New Jersey and Florida. I work with individuals, family units, and groups, to help clients achieve their goals and feel at peace. I offer evening hours. Call to schedule an appointment.
I have extensive experience in crisis counseling for the dying and the bereft. I work with bereaved children and adults, counseling families suffering from loss or trauma, long-term and short-term illness, and other major life changes and challenges including divorce, infertility, job loss, and adoption. My experience is in both private practice and with Hospice Care Network. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York, New Jersey and Florida. I work with individuals, family units, and groups, to help clients achieve their goals and feel at peace. I offer evening hours. Call to schedule an appointment.
(561) 708-4585 View (561) 708-4585
Photo of Dena S Prybutok, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lattingtown, NY
Dena S Prybutok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Port Washington, NY 11050
Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse, grief and loss, eating issues, pregnancy loss, adoption issues or new motherhood and postpartum depression; we can work through these things together.
Life can be difficult. It can throw us for a loop. We can suddenly find ourselves feeling alone, bewildered. Life's transitions and changes can easily overwhelm us and it feels as though it is more than we can handle. But I can help you. I am here to encourage you, to support you. With an objective, non-judgmental ear and an open mind, I can give you another perspective. Sometimes, all it takes is another perspective to make life's challenges feel less intimidating.
Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, substance abuse, grief and loss, eating issues, pregnancy loss, adoption issues or new motherhood and postpartum depression; we can work through these things together.
Life can be difficult. It can throw us for a loop. We can suddenly find ourselves feeling alone, bewildered. Life's transitions and changes can easily overwhelm us and it feels as though it is more than we can handle. But I can help you. I am here to encourage you, to support you. With an objective, non-judgmental ear and an open mind, I can give you another perspective. Sometimes, all it takes is another perspective to make life's challenges feel less intimidating.
(646) 798-6859 View (646) 798-6859
Photo of Courtney Purslow, Counselor in Lattingtown, NY
Courtney Purslow
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Great Neck, NY 11021  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming on any given day, but when mental health concerns are added to the mix, it can seem impossible to overcome even small hiccups. This is normal, but it is not something that you should have to deal with alone. My goal as a therapist is to address whatever problems you are experiencing at any given moment. I provide structured sessions using evidence-based approaches to help you or your family tackle concerns related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, trauma, grief, relationship stressors, infertility and adoption issues, sport performance, and life adjustments.
Life can be overwhelming on any given day, but when mental health concerns are added to the mix, it can seem impossible to overcome even small hiccups. This is normal, but it is not something that you should have to deal with alone. My goal as a therapist is to address whatever problems you are experiencing at any given moment. I provide structured sessions using evidence-based approaches to help you or your family tackle concerns related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues, trauma, grief, relationship stressors, infertility and adoption issues, sport performance, and life adjustments.
(646) 450-3064 View (646) 450-3064
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Baer, Counselor in Lattingtown, NY
Dr. Jacqueline Baer
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Syosset, NY 11791
I work with clients who experience a wide range of challenges involving medical issues, divorce, adoption, relationships, and life transitions.
I believe in your ability to examine the circumstances of your life, gain awareness, and find answers within yourself. Through an exploration of self and personal ability, I hope to help you become more present, authentic, and accepting of yourself. We will also work together to help move you toward inner trustworthiness and self-actualization, experiencing change in yourself.
I work with clients who experience a wide range of challenges involving medical issues, divorce, adoption, relationships, and life transitions.
I believe in your ability to examine the circumstances of your life, gain awareness, and find answers within yourself. Through an exploration of self and personal ability, I hope to help you become more present, authentic, and accepting of yourself. We will also work together to help move you toward inner trustworthiness and self-actualization, experiencing change in yourself.
(516) 990-4074 View (516) 990-4074
Photo of Lynn Hugger, Psychologist in Lattingtown, NY
Lynn Hugger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030
I have extensive experience with adoption and people with medical illness.
Therapy is a personal experience and an opportunity to get to know yourself better. Discover strategies to improve your life in a safe, private, comfortable atmosphere. We are all unique individuals; there is no one way to do therapy. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults that allow me to utilize clinical experience to find the path that helps an individual, couple or family obtain the help they are looking for.
I have extensive experience with adoption and people with medical illness.
Therapy is a personal experience and an opportunity to get to know yourself better. Discover strategies to improve your life in a safe, private, comfortable atmosphere. We are all unique individuals; there is no one way to do therapy. I have many years of experience working with children, adolescents and adults that allow me to utilize clinical experience to find the path that helps an individual, couple or family obtain the help they are looking for.
(516) 543-0999 View (516) 543-0999
Photo of Bianca Kattan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lattingtown, NY
Bianca Kattan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhasset, NY 11030  (Online Only)
Create positive & healthy changes in your life. You have taken a courageous step toward healing. Whether you have relationship issues, family conflicts, fears, anxiety, panic, trauma, depression, bottled up frustration and insecurities, you will gain concrete skills to manage them IMMEDIATELY. If you feel marginalized because of sexual orientation, being an immigrant, having disabilities or feel like an outsider, you will be heard, empowered and taught to be self protective. I work with the LGBTQ community. Those dealing with chronic pain, infertility and adoption, integrating a mind-body approach. I am fluent in Hebrew and Arabic.
Create positive & healthy changes in your life. You have taken a courageous step toward healing. Whether you have relationship issues, family conflicts, fears, anxiety, panic, trauma, depression, bottled up frustration and insecurities, you will gain concrete skills to manage them IMMEDIATELY. If you feel marginalized because of sexual orientation, being an immigrant, having disabilities or feel like an outsider, you will be heard, empowered and taught to be self protective. I work with the LGBTQ community. Those dealing with chronic pain, infertility and adoption, integrating a mind-body approach. I am fluent in Hebrew and Arabic.
(646) 490-9982 View (646) 490-9982
Photo of Marzieh Hadavi, Licensed Psychoanalyst in Lattingtown, NY
Marzieh Hadavi
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LPsyA, LMSW, Faculty
Verified Verified
Great Neck, NY 11021
I have worked on resolving relationship conflicts, eating disorders, infertility issues, adoption concerns, and on anxiety, insomnia, depression, and traumatic stresses.
I believe that we seek treatment when we feel dissatisfied in our relationships, careers, or with ourselves. We might not be aware that our emotional conflicts block us from achieving what we want. Change and flourishing of creativity can occur when the analyst creates an accepting and safe environment for expression and exploration of all dimensions of our experiences. I am an experienced analyst with over twenty years of practice working with children, adolescents, adults and couples in Manhattan and Great Neck.
I have worked on resolving relationship conflicts, eating disorders, infertility issues, adoption concerns, and on anxiety, insomnia, depression, and traumatic stresses.
I believe that we seek treatment when we feel dissatisfied in our relationships, careers, or with ourselves. We might not be aware that our emotional conflicts block us from achieving what we want. Change and flourishing of creativity can occur when the analyst creates an accepting and safe environment for expression and exploration of all dimensions of our experiences. I am an experienced analyst with over twenty years of practice working with children, adolescents, adults and couples in Manhattan and Great Neck.
(516) 690-6980 View (516) 690-6980
Photo of Doris Aptekar, Counselor in Lattingtown, NY
Doris Aptekar
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Roslyn, NY 11576
Hospice trained for bereavement counseling, all ages, including loss from divorce, adoption and illness.
MIRACLES CAN HAPPEN. HAVE YOURS! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, School Psychologist, Bilingual Counselor, Hypnotherapist and Teacher, with special education experience who believes that "miracles can happen". I specialize in individual (children/adults}, couples and family,and hypnotherapy facilitating in smoking cessation, phobias, ADHD,OCD, behavior management, coaching and increasing self-esteem for achieving goals. I maintain a private practice in Roslyn Estates, New York. License, Certifications & Awards: Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Honor Society in Psychology, Licensed Teacher, Certified School Psychologist. Certified Bilingual Counselor Awards: National Psychology Honor Society, New York City Works for Community Contributions.
Hospice trained for bereavement counseling, all ages, including loss from divorce, adoption and illness.
MIRACLES CAN HAPPEN. HAVE YOURS! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, School Psychologist, Bilingual Counselor, Hypnotherapist and Teacher, with special education experience who believes that "miracles can happen". I specialize in individual (children/adults}, couples and family,and hypnotherapy facilitating in smoking cessation, phobias, ADHD,OCD, behavior management, coaching and increasing self-esteem for achieving goals. I maintain a private practice in Roslyn Estates, New York. License, Certifications & Awards: Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Honor Society in Psychology, Licensed Teacher, Certified School Psychologist. Certified Bilingual Counselor Awards: National Psychology Honor Society, New York City Works for Community Contributions.
(516) 200-3415 View (516) 200-3415
Photo of Mallory Winter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lattingtown, NY
Mallory Winter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mamaroneck, NY 10543
I have experience and training in intimate partner violence, trauma, and open adoption.
I am an LCSW who prioritizes creating a safe and supportive environment. My goal is to help clients better understand how their life histories and relationships impact their present experience, and then develop concrete strategies for problem-solving. I use a psychodynamic lens and integrate modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to assist with symptoms and improve overall functioning. I enjoy working with those experiencing life transitions, job stressors, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and perinatal mood disorders
I have experience and training in intimate partner violence, trauma, and open adoption.
I am an LCSW who prioritizes creating a safe and supportive environment. My goal is to help clients better understand how their life histories and relationships impact their present experience, and then develop concrete strategies for problem-solving. I use a psychodynamic lens and integrate modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to assist with symptoms and improve overall functioning. I enjoy working with those experiencing life transitions, job stressors, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, and perinatal mood disorders
(914) 677-1369 View (914) 677-1369
Photo of Susan Berenzweig, Psychologist in Lattingtown, NY
Susan Berenzweig
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mamaroneck, NY 10543
I also provide support and guidance for people with adoption and infertility issues.
I work with a flexible, eclectic approach utilizing the "whatever works" principle. Expressive, dynamic exploration is an important approach that underlies most therapeutic conversation. When possible, a short-term treatment will be used to reach goals. For stress, traumatic memory and anxiety, I often use EMDR, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness training, and body-centered techniques. Always, strength-based and positive psychology are at the forefront of my thinking along with awareness of the spiritual foundations of meaningful human life.
I also provide support and guidance for people with adoption and infertility issues.
I work with a flexible, eclectic approach utilizing the "whatever works" principle. Expressive, dynamic exploration is an important approach that underlies most therapeutic conversation. When possible, a short-term treatment will be used to reach goals. For stress, traumatic memory and anxiety, I often use EMDR, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness training, and body-centered techniques. Always, strength-based and positive psychology are at the forefront of my thinking along with awareness of the spiritual foundations of meaningful human life.
(914) 295-0282 View (914) 295-0282
Photo of Tracy Summer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lattingtown, NY
Tracy Summer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743  (Online Only)
I have been in practice for over 28 years. My practice specializes in anxiety, panic attacks, agoraphobia, phobias, and "life issues." I see people dealing with bereavement, adoption issues, relationship issues, work problems & health issues, such as cancer. I work with people of different ages/stages: Young adults, mid-life and senior citizens.
I have been in practice for over 28 years. My practice specializes in anxiety, panic attacks, agoraphobia, phobias, and "life issues." I see people dealing with bereavement, adoption issues, relationship issues, work problems & health issues, such as cancer. I work with people of different ages/stages: Young adults, mid-life and senior citizens.
(631) 505-1183 View (631) 505-1183
Photo of Rebecca King, Psychologist in Lattingtown, NY
Rebecca King
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Larchmont, NY 10538
adoption and learning disabilities.
I come to practice with an integrated, flexible approach to treatment that considers how personal experience and family history, as well as constitutional profile, inform behavior, decisions, relationships as well as beliefs about oneself, others, the world and the future. I take a strength-based, collaborative approach to enhance an individual's sense of worth, vitality and efficacy and build healthy, gratifying relationships. My approach is integrative, exploring the psychological factors that contribute to distress while offering practical, logical strategies to restore balance, meaning and strength in a gentle, non-threatening environment.
adoption and learning disabilities.
I come to practice with an integrated, flexible approach to treatment that considers how personal experience and family history, as well as constitutional profile, inform behavior, decisions, relationships as well as beliefs about oneself, others, the world and the future. I take a strength-based, collaborative approach to enhance an individual's sense of worth, vitality and efficacy and build healthy, gratifying relationships. My approach is integrative, exploring the psychological factors that contribute to distress while offering practical, logical strategies to restore balance, meaning and strength in a gentle, non-threatening environment.
(917) 791-4090 View (917) 791-4090
Photo of Susan Bornstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lattingtown, NY
Susan Bornstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Harrison, NY 10528
I also work with couples, parents, older adults as well as focus on adoption and grief.
Reaching out for help, especially in stressful times, takes courage. And finding a therapist you can open up to is important. One of my strengths is providing a judgement-free, compassionate space for you to share your feelings, thoughts, hopes and dreams. Together, we are identifying and exploring obstacles and patterns, often that we all experience as human beings, without knowing why. I think every person is an individual and unique in his/her/their own way. I have both clinical and life experience to help with stressors related to life transitions, relationships, family issues, and work.
I also work with couples, parents, older adults as well as focus on adoption and grief.
Reaching out for help, especially in stressful times, takes courage. And finding a therapist you can open up to is important. One of my strengths is providing a judgement-free, compassionate space for you to share your feelings, thoughts, hopes and dreams. Together, we are identifying and exploring obstacles and patterns, often that we all experience as human beings, without knowing why. I think every person is an individual and unique in his/her/their own way. I have both clinical and life experience to help with stressors related to life transitions, relationships, family issues, and work.
(914) 350-6819 View (914) 350-6819
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.