Karyn Ellis, M.A., L.M.H.C.

Certified in Adoption and Foster Care Counseling


For about a year now I have been working on completing my Post Graduate Certification in Adoption and Foster Care Counseling from the Portland State University. My final project on The Effects of Trauma on the Brain was recently accepted. This year of studies has enhanced my understanding of how adoption and foster care affects individuals (not just kids!) and their families.

What you might not know about adopted and foster care children

There are numerous factors that can play a considerable role in whether or not an adoption is successful and if the child is able to transition well through the stages of development.

These are just a few items that can have a huge impact on the successfulness of your adoption or your own intrapersonal struggles:

Core issues in development

Kinship adoption

Trauma

Dissociation

Attachment

If you have noticed any of these factors playing a role in your family, or you have concerns about an adoption, or want to help bring your family closer together, you may want to consider counseling. If you are an adult still struggling with your adoption or feelings or guilt and loss, it is normal and I would be honored by an opportunity to help you. As a counselor it is my goal is to support you, your family, and children.