Adoption Issues
Families going through the adoption process face unique challenges. Navigating the emotional, logistical and legal impacts can be tough for all family members. Depending on their role within the family, adoption may trigger feelings of loss, rejection, guilt, grief and shame. The adopted child may have a hard time adjusting to their new circumstances and may experience symptoms of trauma, PTSD or develop an attachment disorder. A therapist who specializes in adoption issues will be well-versed in the issues that adoptive families face. Seeing a qualified professional, even before concerns arise, can help adoptive (and foster) families to ease the transition during this exciting time.
Local experts in Adoption Issues
Rebecca Flatt
Clinical Social Work Associate
I have researched adoption issues from the adoptee's standpoint and an adoptive parent's 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 of approaching adoptees with a fundamental understanding and empathy. I do not provide services for birth parents or adoptive parents at this time.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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/
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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.
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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.
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Erin Webb
Licensed Art Therapist
LPC, ATR
I am experienced in supporting youth and families with challenges 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.
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