Specialty
Adoption therapists in Texas
6 licensed Texas clinicians who work with adoption. All sessions are telehealth and available across every Texas county.

Jordan Mikesell, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Kathleen Fahrner, PhD
Therapist

Merrik Hetherington, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor

Rachel Walton, Doctoral Intern
Doctoral Intern

Sheaundra O'Neil, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor

Steffanie Strawbridge, LCSW
Therapist
Frequently asked about adoption therapy in Texas
How do I find a adoption therapist in Texas?
Our directory lists 6 Texas-licensed therapists who specialize in adoption. All can see clients statewide via secure telehealth. Filter by city, county, language, or insurance, then book directly with the clinician.
Does insurance cover adoption therapy in Texas?
Most major Texas plans — Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Superior HealthPlan (Medicaid), and Medicare — cover outpatient mental health therapy including adoption treatment. Check each therapist's profile for the plans they currently accept.
Can adoption therapy be done by video?
Yes. Telehealth is well-established for adoption treatment and is covered by most insurance the same as in-person care. Any Texas-licensed therapist can see Texas residents by secure video.
How long does adoption therapy take?
It varies. Many people see meaningful change in 8-20 weekly sessions, but timelines depend on the severity, history, and treatment approach. Your therapist will discuss expectations during the first 1-2 sessions.
What evidence-based approaches are used for adoption?
Common evidence-based modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR for trauma, and emotionally focused therapy for relationships. The right approach depends on your goals — your therapist will discuss this in session one.
How is the first adoption session structured?
Most first sessions are an intake: the therapist asks about your history, current symptoms, goals, and what's worked before. You'll discuss confidentiality, fees, and the proposed treatment plan. Expect to leave with a clear sense of next steps.
Do I need a referral from a primary care doctor?
For most commercial plans (BCBS PPO, Aetna, Cigna, United) — no, you can book directly. Some HMO plans and Medicaid require a referral. Check the back of your insurance card or call member services before your first session.
What if my child or teen needs adoption therapy?
Many of our Texas clinicians specialize in adolescents and children. Texas law requires parental consent for minors under 18, except in narrow situations (suicidal crisis, certain substance-use evaluations). Filter for "child" or "adolescent" specialty.
Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay for adoption therapy?
Yes. Outpatient psychotherapy is an IRS-qualified medical expense. Most clinicians accept HSA/FSA debit cards or will provide a superbill you can submit for reimbursement.
What's the difference between a therapist, psychologist, and psychiatrist?
LPCs, LCSWs, and LMFTs provide talk therapy. Psychologists (PhD/PsyD) provide therapy and formal psychological testing. Psychiatrists and PMHNPs are medical providers who can prescribe medication — many also do therapy, or coordinate with a separate talk therapist.