Mental Health Awareness Month: Why Adoption-Competent Counseling Matters More Than Ever
During Mental Health Awareness Month, The Barker Adoption Foundation is shining a light on the importance of mental health support for anyone touched by adoption. And we’re here to offer the help you deserve.
The Hidden Truth: Many Adoptees Need Mental Health Support—But Don’t Get It
Adoption is a lifelong journey – one that brings immense joy, growth, and at times, profound questions and emotional challenges. Whether you’re an adoptee, an adoptive parent, or a birth parent, navigating emotions, identity, relationships, and transitions can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to do it alone.
Research shows that adopted individuals are nearly four times more likely to attempt suicide than non-adopted individuals1. They also face higher risks of depression, anxiety, and identity struggles—yet many lack access to the adoption-competent care that could truly help.
In fact, the National Council for Adoption found that most mental health professionals receive little to no training on adoption-related issues—leaving families and individuals to navigate these challenges without proper support.
That’s Where We Come In
At The Barker Adoption Foundation, our adoption-competent counseling team offers expert, compassionate support tailored specifically to:
- Adoptees: Exploring identity, processing loss, strengthening self-esteem, anxiety, depression, ADHD, social skills, school issues and navigating relationships.
- Adoptive Parents: Addressing parenting challenges, bonding and attachment, and supporting your child’s emotional well-being. Helping parents assess whether or not the challenges that their child is experiencing are adoption-related or other mental health issues.
- Birth Parents: Navigating grief, processing emotions, and finding peace in your adoption journey.
Our licensed clinicians bring both clinical training and deep experience in adoption, creating a safe and supportive environment—virtually or in person
Accessible. Affordable. Here for You.
- Individual and family therapy for residents in DC, Maryland, and Virginia
- Discussion groups
- Virtual and in-person appointments
- Most major insurances accepted
Whether you’re seeking short-term guidance or long-term healing, you don’t have to do it alone.
Take the First Step Today
Mental health is just as important as physical health—and yet, far too many people in the adoption community go without it. This month, we invite you to take a step forward. For yourself, your child, or someone you love.
Call: 301-664-9664
Email: post-adopt [at] barkerfoundation.org
Ready to get started? Complete our confidential counseling intake form
Explore Services: Visit Barker’s Counseling Services Page