5 Questions to Ask When Choosing an Adoption Therapist

Finding the right therapist is an important step in your healing journey. Whether you are an adoptee, birth parent, or adoptive family, working with an adoption-informed therapist can make all the difference in how you process emotions, build resilience, and navigate relationships. But how do you know if a therapist is the right fit? Here are five key questions to ask before making your decision.

1. "Do You Specialize in Adoption-Related Issues?"

Adoption is a unique experience that can bring up complex emotions related to identity, attachment, trauma, and family dynamics. A therapist with experience in adoption will understand these challenges and be equipped to offer tailored support.

What to listen for:

• Experience working with adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive families
• Training in adoption-focused therapy models like TBRI, TF-CBT, or EMDR
• Understanding of how adoption impacts individuals across the lifespan

2. "What Therapeutic Approaches Do You Use?"

Different therapy methods work for different people. Understanding a therapist’s approach can help you determine whether their style aligns with your needs. Adoption-informed therapy often includes techniques that focus on attachment, trauma, and emotional regulation.

Common approaches for adoption counseling:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps reframe negative thoughts and develop healthy coping skills
• Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI): Strengthens attachment and family relationships
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Supports trauma processing and emotional healing

3. "Do You Have Experience with My Specific Concerns?"

Adoption-related experiences vary widely. Some people may need help processing grief or identity struggles, while others may be working through trauma or attachment issues. Make sure your therapist has experience with your specific concerns.

Topics to discuss:

• Identity and belonging struggles for adoptees
• Grief and loss for birth parents
• Parenting challenges for adoptive families
• Open adoption relationships and boundaries

4. "How Do You Involve Families in Therapy?"

For children and teens, family support can be a critical part of the healing process. Some therapists offer sessions that include parents or other family members to strengthen relationships and communication.

Ask about:

• Parent coaching or education sessions
• Family therapy options for improving connection
• Support for adoptive families navigating attachment or behavioral concerns

5. What Should I Expect from the Therapy Process?

Understanding how therapy works can help you feel more comfortable and prepared. Ask about the structure of sessions, typical length of treatment, and what progress looks like. A good therapist will set clear expectations and work collaboratively to meet your goals.

Things to consider:

• How often sessions are scheduled
• What progress in therapy might look like
• Whether the therapist provides tools for coping outside of sessions

Find the Right Adoption Therapist with Gladney Counseling Services

Choosing the right therapist is an important decision, and Gladney Counseling Services is here to help. Our experienced therapists specialize in adoption-related challenges and provide personalized support for adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive families.

Call: 817-672-9581
mail: counseling@gladney.org

Reach out today to schedule a session and start your journey toward healing.