Adoption is a lifelong journey, and while it brings love and connection, it can also come with emotional complexities. Whether you are an adoptee, birth parent, or adoptive family, seeking counseling can be a powerful step toward healing, understanding, and growth. But how do you know when it’s the right time to start? Here are six key signs that counseling could help support you or your family.

1. Unresolved Feelings About Adoption

Adoption can bring up a mix of emotions—joy, gratitude, grief, loss, or identity struggles. If you or your child frequently feel confused, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your adoption story, counseling can provide a safe space to explore and process these emotions.

• Feeling disconnected from your adoption story
• Struggling with identity or belonging
• Unexplained sadness or frustration related to adoption

2. Difficulty with Attachment and Relationships

For adoptees, early separation from birth parents can impact attachment and trust. Adoptive parents may also struggle to connect with their child in meaningful ways. Counseling can help individuals and families navigate these challenges and strengthen emotional bonds.

• Trouble trusting others or forming close relationships
• Fear of abandonment or rejection
• Feeling distant or disconnected from family members

3. Experiencing Anxiety, Depression, or Trauma Responses

Adoptees and birth parents may carry deep emotional wounds from past experiences, including trauma, loss, or abandonment. If you or your child experience persistent anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms, therapy can provide coping strategies and emotional relief.

• Frequent mood swings, sadness, or withdrawal
• Persistent worry, fear, or panic attacks
• Flashbacks, nightmares, or emotional triggers related to adoption

4. Behavioral or Emotional Struggles in Children

Children process adoption in different ways, and sometimes their emotions show up in their behavior. If your child is acting out, struggling in school, or having difficulty managing emotions, a therapist can help them express their feelings in a healthy way.

• Increased aggression, defiance, or withdrawal
• Difficulty focusing or sudden changes in school performance
• Frequent emotional outbursts or trouble regulating emotions

5. Challenges in Parenting or Family Dynamics

Adoptive families often face unique parenting challenges, especially when children struggle with identity, past trauma, or attachment difficulties. Therapy can equip parents with tools to create a supportive, understanding environment.

• Feeling frustrated or unsure how to support your child
• Recurring conflicts or tension in the household
• Struggles with open adoption relationships or birth family connections

6. Feeling Stuck or Overwhelmed in Your Adoption Journey

Adoption-related emotions can evolve over time. If you feel like you’re struggling to move forward, therapy can provide guidance and emotional clarity. Talking to a professional can help you process experiences, set goals, and find peace.

• Feeling unsure about how to navigate adoption-related emotions
• Needing support but not knowing where to start
• Wanting tools to strengthen self-awareness and resilience

Take the First Step Toward Healing

If any of these signs resonate with you or your family, 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
Email: counseling@gladney.org

Reach out today to schedule a session and take the next step toward emotional well-being.

Learn More About Adoption Resources in Fort Worth, Texas