Bringing An Adoption Lens to Clinical Teams

Adoptees are overrepresented in residential treatment, therapeutic boarding schools, and group care settings — yet it’s not easy to effectively incorporate adoption into the clinical work.

But, adoption is an essential piece of the clinical picture. Without it, it can be harder to gain traction in therapy.

Why?

Because the experience of adoption isn’t just about attachment, trauma, and loss. It reflects a lack of safety, security, and stability. It’s not just situational — it’s foundational.

I work with clinical and residential teams to bring that lens into case conceptualization, treatment planning, and staff training.

An adoption lens gives clinical teams a way to incorporate adoption into the treatment, in the context of mental health. 

My Background

As a psychotherapist, I’ve seen hundreds of adopted clients and families over the past twenty years. I also understand that therapy doesn’t exist in a vacuum. My career began working in residential programs. 

Along with my private practice, I’m a consultant for A Home Within, a national organization that offers psychotherapy for current and former foster care youth. 

My lived experience as an adoptee deepens and enriches my work.

To learn more about bringing an adoption lens into the clinical work in your organization, click here.