Counseling During The Adoption Process

We understand that the journey of adoption is filled with a wide range of intense and complex emotions for all involved parties. Whether you're a birth mother, birth father, adoptive mother, or adoptive father, our specialized therapy services are here to offer compassionate support and guidance every step of the way.

For Birth Mothers:

The decision to place a child for adoption can evoke intense emotions that may persist long after the process is complete. Birth mothers often experience feelings of profound loneliness and hopelessness, compounded by relational pressures and guilt while navigating this monumental decision. Post-placement, they may grapple with a unique form of grief for someone who is still alive, as well as the physical and emotional repercussions of their choice. Many birth mothers have not had the opportunity to explore the complex emotions surrounding adoption before placement, which can exacerbate their struggles. Research has also highlighted the negative health effects on women who have placed children for adoption. Additionally, finding or lacking a shared support system can significantly impact their ability to cope with these challenges.

For Adoptive Mothers:

The adoption journey for adoptive mothers is likewise filled with intense emotions that can persist throughout the process and beyond. Many adoptive mothers face the heartache of infertility, longing to fulfill their dreams of starting a family through adoption. The absence of a biological connection with their child often leads to feelings of inadequacy and a profound sense of loss. Adoptive mothers also grapple with the fear of rejection when contemplating how and when to disclose the adoption to their child. Depending on the specifics of the adoption arrangement, they may experience both joy and pain, from the anticipation of "birthing" their child to the grief of not experiencing the natural process of giving birth. Relational strains, including those within marital and family dynamics, can further compound their emotional journey. Despite the challenges, adoptive mothers often strive to maintain hope, even in the face of uncertainty about the adoption process's outcome. Additionally, feelings of guilt may arise, particularly concerning the birth mother's circumstances and decisions, whether the adoption is open or closed.

For Birth Fathers and Adoptive Fathers:

We acknowledge that birth fathers and adoptive fathers also undergo significant emotional challenges throughout the adoption process. Whether grappling with feelings of pressure, grief, or longing, our therapists are here to provide tailored support to help you navigate the complexities of adoption with understanding and empathy. We offer a safe space for birth fathers and adoptive fathers to explore their emotions, manage relational challenges, and find strength and resilience as they embark on their journey to parenthood.