Adoption can be an amazing and wonderful journey, but it may also come along with some emotional, psychological, and relational challenges for everyone involved. Individuals and families can all be affected by these challenges. Wholesome Psychology, has locations in St.Albert and Edmonton. Our office is committed to provide a nurturing and understanding space to support individuals and their families through every step of the adoption journey. Our professional therapists are respectful and approach each appointment with compassion and understanding. If you are interested in learning about adoption support in Alberta or want to learn about our services for families, we are here to help!
Understanding Adoption Issues and why seek adoption support?
Every adoption story is made up of hope, trust and excitement, but it may also come with some complexities that you may have not been prepared for. Families,Children and teens may struggle with attachment issues, identity issues and even grief and loss due to the major changes that are occurring in their lives. Adoptive and birth parents may struggle with uncertainty or have questions about bonding and creating a family dynamic. At Wholesome psychology our therapists are able to help in these areas:
- Children and adolescents who have been adopted whether it was an internal adoption or from foster care)
- Children,Teens or Families who are struggling with identity issues, low self esteem, or who are struggling to bond and manage relationships.
- Adoptive parents who have questions or are struggling with attachment issues, communication barriers and family dynamics.
- Birth parents who are needing support to navigate the emotional and psychological challenges that arise from adoption
- Families who are navigating open, closed, or kinship adoptions
If you are wanting to start the adoption process or you are currently waiting for a placement, are currently waiting for a placement or are navigating family dynamics post adoption, our clinic is available to provide evidence based care. We are here to help alleviate any feelings of overwhelm, anxiety or isolation. Our therapists who specialize in adoption support and counselling can help you improve your well-being and confidence.
How Counseling can help
Adoption issues counseling and adoption support for parents at Wholesome psychology takes place in a warm and welcoming environment. Our therapists build a trusting and supportive relationship with their clients so you can feel comfortable sharing your story. Children,teens and parents will receive guidance and will experience improved well being. The benefits from adoption counselling and support include:
- Creating coping tools and mechanisms that help with (Emotional Regulation)
- Learning and understanding communication and attachment issues and how to resolve them
- Improving self-esteem and understanding your identity
- Improving and Navigating relationships with birth families, siblings, or peers
- Processing any trauma or grief with (Trauma Therapy)
At Wholesome Psychology, our therapists use different approaches including attachment-focused therapies, play therapy, and cognitive-behavioral techniques. We create treatment plans are are specialized to each individual and family.
Support for Parents and Families
Parents and families often benefit from their own therapeutic appointment to help them with any mental health challenges that may arise during the adoption journey. If you are adjusting to a recent adoption or seeking support to ensure your families well-being, Wholesome is able to provide specialized support for:
If you would like to learn more on Adoption Support for Parents here.
Issues related to adoption
Families, Children and teens may encounter additional mental health concerns that tie back to the adoption process, some of these concerns include:
Our therapists are able to help with any of the above issues. We work hard to ensure mental health help is accessible and customized to you and your families needs. Our therapists prioritize connection and respectful communication.
We work alongside local organizations to provide support for mental health and can help you access community resources if required for your journey.
Getting Started: How to Book an Appointment
If you would like to start your therapeutic journey, Wholesome psychology provides in person and secure virtual sessions for adoption counselling and support. Contact us to schedule your appointment or ask any questions about our approach, fees, or insurance coverage.
Additional Resources & Support
In addition to adoption counseling, we offer specialized therapy for:
