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MENTAL HEALTH THERAPIST

Annandale, VA

It is an exciting time as we grow our evidence-based, adoption-competent clinical model and our ... This position is specifically seeking a therapist for the Annandale, Virginia location. This ...

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MENTAL HEALTH THERAPIST

Burtonsville, MD · On-site

It is an exciting time as we grow our evidence-based, adoption-competent clinical model and our ... About the position The Mental Health Therapist provides individual, family, and group psychotherapy ...

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Director, IT

Burtonsville, MD

E. has combined best practices and innovation to provide specialized individual and family therapy ... It is an exciting time as we grow our evidence-based, adoption-competent clinical model and our ...

Advocate Aurora Health

Registered Respiratory

Rome, GA · On-site

$30.15 - $45.25/hr

Experience 1. RRT I Entry Level Therapist 2. RRT II Competent Therapist 3. RRT III Proficient ... Family benefits such as adoption assistance and paid parental leave * Defined contribution ...

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How much do adoption competent therapist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for adoption competent therapist in the United States is $66,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an adoption competent therapist?

An Adoption Competent Therapist is a mental health professional who has specialized training and experience in working with adoptive families, adopted individuals, and birth families. They understand the unique challenges and complexities of adoption, such as identity, attachment, and trauma issues. These therapists are equipped to provide support and therapeutic interventions that address adoption-related experiences and help families navigate post-adoption adjustments. Their goal is to promote healthy relationships and emotional well-being within the context of adoption.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an adoption competent therapist?

To thrive as an Adoption Competent Therapist, you need a master's degree in social work, counseling, or psychology and specialized training in adoption-related issues such as trauma, attachment, and family dynamics. Familiarity with evidence-based therapeutic modalities (like TBRI or trauma-informed CBT), state licensing, and adoption competence certifications (such as TAC) are typically required. Exceptional empathy, cultural sensitivity, and strong communication skills set outstanding therapists apart in this field. These competencies are vital for supporting adoptive families and children through complex emotional challenges and ensuring effective, ethical care.

What are some unique challenges faced by adoption competent therapists when supporting adoptive families, and how can they navigate them?

Adoption Competent Therapists often encounter challenges such as navigating complex family dynamics, managing issues of attachment, and addressing trauma histories for both children and parents. Building trust with clients, understanding the impact of adoption on identity, and staying sensitive to cultural and transracial adoption issues are critical. Therapists in this role benefit from specialized training, regular supervision, and collaboration with other professionals such as social workers and educators to provide holistic support to families.

What are popular job titles related to Adoption Competent Therapist jobs?

For Adoption Competent Therapist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Adoption Competent Therapist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,131 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Adoption Competent Therapist in Pennsylvania (Hybrid Telehealth/In-Person)

Wynnewood, PA • On-site

Adoptions From The Heart
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Adoptions From The Heartexternal

Contractor

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Adoption Competent Therapist (Hybrid Telehealth/In-Person)
Location: Hybrid (Remote & In-Person in Pennsylvania)
Employment Type: 1099 Independent Contractor (Fee-for-Service)
Schedule: Flexible – Must be available to offer sessions until at least 7 PM, twice weekly

About Us:
We are seeking a compassionate and skilled clinician to join our team at Adoptions From The Heart, providing adoption-competent therapy services to individuals and families within the adoption kinship network. This includes adoptees, birth parents, adoptive or waiting adoptive parents, siblings, and others who are impacted by adoption. Our goal is to promote attachment, bonding, and reduce family conflict while addressing the unique needs of our clients in both pre- and post-adoption stages.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide individual and family therapy to individuals and families impacted by adoption.
  • Develop and implement treatment plans that utilize evidence-based therapeutic models.
  • Promote attachment and bonding, while decreasing family conflict and the risk of disruption.
  • Offer therapy via telehealth, with occasional in-person sessions.
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to ensure comprehensive support for AFTH individuals and families.
  • Engaging in community outreach efforts, including building relationships with referral sources
  • Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation, including therapy notes.
  • Manage a caseload and schedule sessions in a timely manner.
Qualifications:
  • Graduate degree in a mental health-related field (e.g., Social Work, Marriage & Family Therapy, Counseling).
  • Active clinical licensure in Pennsylvania (e.g., LCSW, LPC, LMFT).
  • At least one year of professional experience working in the adoption field.
  • Completion of adoption-competent therapy training is required.
  • Knowledge and experience with TherapyNotes (or similar clinical documentation software) is a plus.
  • Must be able to accept clients ages 12 and up and provide both individual and family therapy services.
  • Experience working with diverse populations and proficiency in one or more culturally responsive therapeutic approaches is preferred
Compensation:
60/40 split for services rendered.

Additional Skills and Attributes:
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to maintain a flexible schedule and self-manage caseload.
  • Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
  • Commitment to providing high-quality, culturally competent care.


Licensure in New Jersey and/or Delaware is a plus.
If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and families affected by adoption and meet the above qualifications, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your resume, including a cover letter, detailing your experience and qualifications.
Resume Submission
If you are interested in applying for this position, please send your resume and cover letter to JuliaR@afth.org
 
Adoptions From The Heart is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees and applicants are treated with respect and dignity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.