Adoption Issues

Rebecca Flatt

Clinical Social Work Associate

I have researched adoption issues from the adoptee's standpoint as well as an adoptive parent standpoint. As both an adult adoptee and an adoptive mother, I not only understand adoption from a clinical standpoint but I have the lived experience to approach adoptees and adoptive parents with real understanding and empathy. I do not provide services for birth parents or birth families at this time.

Kaysey Crump (she/her)

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

LCSW, PMH-C

Many people choose to become parents or grow their families through adoption or foster care. In 2017 I received a postgraduate certificate in Adoptive & Foster Family Therapy through Portland State University. I spent many years working with youth and families in the foster care system, and I love helping families navigate the complexities involved in adoption and foster care. If you would like to explore whether these paths are right for you, or you have already grown your family through adopt

Sarabeth Casey, LPC (she/her)

Licensed Professional Counselor

LPC, NBCC

I completed the Adoptive & Foster Family post-graduate certificate program, a collaboration between DHS and PSU, in 2018. More info can be found: https://www.orparc.org/

Nina Tarabus (she/ her)

Clinical Social Work Associate

LMSW

I am passionate about working with adoptees, particularly when it comes to challenges in honoring, understanding and celebrating all parts of the cultural self. I operate from a BIPOC, decolonized frame work. In addition I have extensive experience working with folx who suffer from abandonment and inter-generational trauma.

MereAnn Reid

Licensed Professional Counselor

Registered Play Therapist, Certified Adoption Therapist

I'm certified in therapy with foster & adoptive families. My experience includes supporting early trauma, attachment, grief & loss, child development, and complex family histories. I'm familiar with all types of adoption, often work with prospective adoptive parents, support transracial families, and help navigate post-adoption dynamics. I enjoy working with birth/first parents, particularly through the grief of relinquishment and providing support during search + reunion.

Erin Webb (she/her)

Licensed Art Therapist

LPC, ATR

I am experienced in supporting youth and families with issues related to adoption. I have a passion for helping adopted and foster youth with healing, setting healthy boundaries, developing coping skills and accessing self-compassion. For many years, I have supported families through crises and with understanding and addressing the effects of developmental trauma.

Lara D'Amore

Licensed Professional Counselor

Children who have experienced trauma or disrupted attachment may have unique vulnerabilities or behavioral challenges. I work to support families with understanding and responding to their child's needs through a trauma-informed lens. I have completed certification training on Family Therapy for Foster and Adoption, provided by PSU and DHS.

Maria Villegas

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Many people have been touched by adoption in some form – either as a birthparent, adoptive parent, child, or extended family. I offer you space to explore your story and identify how it is impacting your relationships, your feelings of yourself, and your daily life. I can help you find a path that allows you to integrate your adoption experience into your life in a healthy and fulfilling way.