Attachment-based Counselling in Perth, WA

Photo of Chelsea Wylde, Counsellor, PACFA
Chelsea Wylde
Counsellor, PACFA
1 Endorsed
Mundaring, WA 6073
I draw from a selection of modalities and theories such as Family Systems, Attachment-based, and Polyvagal theory, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focus Therapy, TRE (trauma release/tension reduction exercises), and I integrate a whole-body approach to healing (body, mind, spirit/soul, community), wellbeing, and ultimate flourishing.
I am a trained Family Therapist and I have experience working as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician, supporting individuals and families who are being impacted by substance use and co-occurring issues such as mental ill health, trauma and Complex-PTSD, conflict in relationships, and legal, housing and financial problems.
I draw from a selection of modalities and theories such as Family Systems, Attachment-based, and Polyvagal theory, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focus Therapy, TRE (trauma release/tension reduction exercises), and I integrate a whole-body approach to healing (body, mind, spirit/soul, community), wellbeing, and ultimate flourishing.
I am a trained Family Therapist and I have experience working as an Alcohol and Other Drug Clinician, supporting individuals and families who are being impacted by substance use and co-occurring issues such as mental ill health, trauma and Complex-PTSD, conflict in relationships, and legal, housing and financial problems.
(08) 6171 2271 View (08) 6171 2271
Photo of Keara Wood, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Keara Wood
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Applecross, WA 6153
Are you feeling stuck in the shadows of past trauma, overwhelmed by anxiety, or facing emotional struggles that hold you back? Keara is a compassionate psychologist with seven years of experience helping teens and adults overcome challenges, heal from trauma, and improve relationships. Her expertise includes trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression, and Educational Assessments. EMDR is one of Keara’s favorite techniques for helping clients process trauma and emotional wounds, enabling them to reclaim control and peace in their lives. Keara also offers ADHD and educational assessments for learning difficulties or giftedness.
Are you feeling stuck in the shadows of past trauma, overwhelmed by anxiety, or facing emotional struggles that hold you back? Keara is a compassionate psychologist with seven years of experience helping teens and adults overcome challenges, heal from trauma, and improve relationships. Her expertise includes trauma, anxiety, ADHD, depression, and Educational Assessments. EMDR is one of Keara’s favorite techniques for helping clients process trauma and emotional wounds, enabling them to reclaim control and peace in their lives. Keara also offers ADHD and educational assessments for learning difficulties or giftedness.
(08) 6361 3218 View (08) 6361 3218
Photo of Hugo Mario Gonzales, Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Hugo Mario Gonzales
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Mount Hawthorn, WA 6016
I specialize in complex trauma recovery, attachment-based therapy for personality disorders, and psychoanalytically informed couples work.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or locked in the same painful patterns—whether in your relationships, your sense of self, or your ability to feel safe in the world. Maybe you've tried to push through it, but the anxiety, shame, or emotional exhaustion keeps coming back. You may not have words for what’s wrong, but you know something needs to change. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of trauma, struggling in your relationship, or feeling trapped by intense emotions or inner criticism, therapy can offer a space to breathe, make sense of what’s happening, and begin to heal.
I specialize in complex trauma recovery, attachment-based therapy for personality disorders, and psychoanalytically informed couples work.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, emotionally stuck, or locked in the same painful patterns—whether in your relationships, your sense of self, or your ability to feel safe in the world. Maybe you've tried to push through it, but the anxiety, shame, or emotional exhaustion keeps coming back. You may not have words for what’s wrong, but you know something needs to change. Whether you're navigating the aftermath of trauma, struggling in your relationship, or feeling trapped by intense emotions or inner criticism, therapy can offer a space to breathe, make sense of what’s happening, and begin to heal.
(08) 6490 9346 View (08) 6490 9346
Photo of Karina Annear, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Karina Annear
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Highgate, WA 6003
Karina practices to a psychodynamic, attachment-based framework.
Karina is experienced with treating adolescents and adults of all ages, including older adults. Karina’s therapeutic style is client-led, holistic and compassionate. She believes in treating the whole person; understanding and appreciating the complexity of humans, their relationships, personality structure, and the impact of life events. Karina believes in the role of the ‘therapeutic alliance’ in healing, and works with clients to relieve present symptoms of distress as well as helping clients gain insight into patterns of behaviour and how these develop.
Karina practices to a psychodynamic, attachment-based framework.
Karina is experienced with treating adolescents and adults of all ages, including older adults. Karina’s therapeutic style is client-led, holistic and compassionate. She believes in treating the whole person; understanding and appreciating the complexity of humans, their relationships, personality structure, and the impact of life events. Karina believes in the role of the ‘therapeutic alliance’ in healing, and works with clients to relieve present symptoms of distress as well as helping clients gain insight into patterns of behaviour and how these develop.
0414 721 404 View 0414 721 404
Photo of Teresa Goddard, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Teresa Goddard
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Karrinyup, WA 6018
As a Clinical Psychologist I have experience working with a range of mental health issues, like depression and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, anger and stress management, difficulties with self-esteem and self-compassion, disordered eating habits, adjustment difficulties, chronic illness, sleep difficulties, trauma and work-related issues. I pride myself on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients of all ages and enjoy working from a person-centred and psychodynamic approach.
As a Clinical Psychologist I have experience working with a range of mental health issues, like depression and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, anger and stress management, difficulties with self-esteem and self-compassion, disordered eating habits, adjustment difficulties, chronic illness, sleep difficulties, trauma and work-related issues. I pride myself on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients of all ages and enjoy working from a person-centred and psychodynamic approach.
(08) 6219 3860 View (08) 6219 3860
Photo of Francisca Lessa, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Francisca Lessa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Alfred Cove, WA 6154
I have continued to expand my expertise through advanced studies in psychotherapy, attachment-based play therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, and couples and family therapy.
From an early age, I have been deeply fascinated by how people navigate life and adapt to its ever-changing circumstances. This passion led me to the field of psychology, where I have dedicated my career to understanding the profound connection between early trauma, brain development, and the nervous system.
I have continued to expand my expertise through advanced studies in psychotherapy, attachment-based play therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, and couples and family therapy.
From an early age, I have been deeply fascinated by how people navigate life and adapt to its ever-changing circumstances. This passion led me to the field of psychology, where I have dedicated my career to understanding the profound connection between early trauma, brain development, and the nervous system.
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Photo of Siew Lan Ho, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Siew Lan Ho
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Subiaco, WA 6008
I primarily practice from a process-oriented trauma-informed approach, drawing knowledge and skills from psychoanalytic psychodynamic theories and attachment-based theories.
Navigating the seasons of life on your own can sometimes get tricky. As you do your best to make sense of it all that seems too much or out of control, having a listening ear as you work through it can be helpful. I believe the struggles with our inner world can get overwhelming at times, and it can be renegotiated to lead a meaningful life. A significant part of my work as a registered clinical psychologist is offering psychological exploration and support to patients in a mutual effort to understand themselves better and work through how they can relate more intimately to themselves and others.
I primarily practice from a process-oriented trauma-informed approach, drawing knowledge and skills from psychoanalytic psychodynamic theories and attachment-based theories.
Navigating the seasons of life on your own can sometimes get tricky. As you do your best to make sense of it all that seems too much or out of control, having a listening ear as you work through it can be helpful. I believe the struggles with our inner world can get overwhelming at times, and it can be renegotiated to lead a meaningful life. A significant part of my work as a registered clinical psychologist is offering psychological exploration and support to patients in a mutual effort to understand themselves better and work through how they can relate more intimately to themselves and others.
(08) 6490 9076 View (08) 6490 9076
Photo of Nicole Cowper, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Nicole Cowper
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Osborne Park, WA 6017
I use a range of therapies to find that best fit; including ACT, schema therapy, DBT, attachment-based therapies, and play therapy.
Coming to therapy can be daunting so it is important to me to make sure I get to know you and what you want from the experience. I am an open person with a keen interest in birds, video games and a wry sense of humour who is happy to discuss the absurdities of life. I generally work with ADHD, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, anxiety, depression and much more. I am passionate about working with neurodiverse people in particular to help improve day-to-day function, meet goals, and improve overall wellbeing. I can provide assessment for neurodiversity for those who are unsure or wanting to find out more.
I use a range of therapies to find that best fit; including ACT, schema therapy, DBT, attachment-based therapies, and play therapy.
Coming to therapy can be daunting so it is important to me to make sure I get to know you and what you want from the experience. I am an open person with a keen interest in birds, video games and a wry sense of humour who is happy to discuss the absurdities of life. I generally work with ADHD, trauma, adjustment difficulties, grief and loss, anxiety, depression and much more. I am passionate about working with neurodiverse people in particular to help improve day-to-day function, meet goals, and improve overall wellbeing. I can provide assessment for neurodiversity for those who are unsure or wanting to find out more.
(08) 6493 7208 View (08) 6493 7208
Photo of Nadezhda Eliseyeva - Nadia Eliseyeva @The Safe Space Counselling, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Nadia Eliseyeva @The Safe Space Counselling
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
4 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
I integrate techniques from attachment-based therapy, systemic models, and emotion-focused therapy, focusing on emotions, past experiences, and relationships.
I am a registered counsellor specialising in providing professional counselling services to couples, individuals and families dealing with relationship issues. My primary goal is to create a safe and trusting space where you can freely explore your concerns.
I integrate techniques from attachment-based therapy, systemic models, and emotion-focused therapy, focusing on emotions, past experiences, and relationships.
I am a registered counsellor specialising in providing professional counselling services to couples, individuals and families dealing with relationship issues. My primary goal is to create a safe and trusting space where you can freely explore your concerns.
(08) 6490 9538 View (08) 6490 9538
Photo of Jennifer Anderson - My Life Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor, PACFA
My Life Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Perth, WA 6000
Integrating evidence-based approaches and interventions such as psychodynamic and attachment-based modalities, Jennifer will individualize your therapy sessions in line with your goals and needs, reflecting your unique life experiences.
Jennifer is a registered psychotherapist and counsellor with a genuine passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges and move toward personal growth and happiness. Providing a safe and non-judgmental space, couples and individuals may explore, and understand the thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that may affect life negatively, assisting you to live a more authentic and fulfilling life. Jennifer holds a master’s degree in counselling and psychotherapy and bachelor's degree in psychology and counselling
Integrating evidence-based approaches and interventions such as psychodynamic and attachment-based modalities, Jennifer will individualize your therapy sessions in line with your goals and needs, reflecting your unique life experiences.
Jennifer is a registered psychotherapist and counsellor with a genuine passion for helping people navigate life’s challenges and move toward personal growth and happiness. Providing a safe and non-judgmental space, couples and individuals may explore, and understand the thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that may affect life negatively, assisting you to live a more authentic and fulfilling life. Jennifer holds a master’s degree in counselling and psychotherapy and bachelor's degree in psychology and counselling
(08) 6493 7407 View (08) 6493 7407
Photo of Danielle Passmore, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Danielle Passmore
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Fremantle, WA 6160
I often use attachment-based and schema therapy in my practice.
I typically work with people who lead full and busy lives who often feel burnt out and exhausted, looking to find a way back to flourishing and wellbeing. I also work with people who are going through relationship challenges of all shapes and sizes, and people who wish to break free from old, limiting childhood patterns that keep showing up to hinder their full potential. My hope is that clients who work with me are reconnected to their deepest sense of who they are, to their strengths, gifts, and their capacity to love themselves and their lives. I work with individuals and couples.
I often use attachment-based and schema therapy in my practice.
I typically work with people who lead full and busy lives who often feel burnt out and exhausted, looking to find a way back to flourishing and wellbeing. I also work with people who are going through relationship challenges of all shapes and sizes, and people who wish to break free from old, limiting childhood patterns that keep showing up to hinder their full potential. My hope is that clients who work with me are reconnected to their deepest sense of who they are, to their strengths, gifts, and their capacity to love themselves and their lives. I work with individuals and couples.
(08) 9473 6346 View (08) 9473 6346
Photo of Felicity Miller, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Felicity Miller
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Mount Lawley, WA 6050
Felicity is experienced in working alongside adults and adolescents who are experiencing distress in everyday life. She helps clients to develop a better understanding of the origins of problem behaviours so that they are able to make changes that go beyond symptom relief. Felicity’s areas of interest include eating disorders, interpersonal difficulties, personality issues, substance use issues, mood and anxiety disorders, domestic violence behaviours and relationship issues.
Felicity is experienced in working alongside adults and adolescents who are experiencing distress in everyday life. She helps clients to develop a better understanding of the origins of problem behaviours so that they are able to make changes that go beyond symptom relief. Felicity’s areas of interest include eating disorders, interpersonal difficulties, personality issues, substance use issues, mood and anxiety disorders, domestic violence behaviours and relationship issues.
(08) 6002 2787 View (08) 6002 2787
Photo of Jenean Walters - Inner-Truth Counselling and Psychotherapy - Jenean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Inner-Truth Counselling and Psychotherapy - Jenean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Wembley, WA 6014
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience. I am also an Accredited EMDR Practitioner and member of the EMDRAA. I specialise in neurobiological approaches to support resolving a wide range of mental health symptoms. I specialise in working with adolescents, youth, adults and trauma survivors including supporting repair of relational trauma. Graduating in 2003 with Masters and Diploma in Social Work. Other qualifications include Graduate Certificate in Mental Health, Certificate in Hypnotherapy, Diploma in Regression Therapy and can take spiritual informed approaches if requested.
I am an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker with over 20 years experience. I am also an Accredited EMDR Practitioner and member of the EMDRAA. I specialise in neurobiological approaches to support resolving a wide range of mental health symptoms. I specialise in working with adolescents, youth, adults and trauma survivors including supporting repair of relational trauma. Graduating in 2003 with Masters and Diploma in Social Work. Other qualifications include Graduate Certificate in Mental Health, Certificate in Hypnotherapy, Diploma in Regression Therapy and can take spiritual informed approaches if requested.
(08) 9515 9849 View (08) 9515 9849
Photo of Susanna B Juchli, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Susanna B Juchli
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
West Perth, WA 6005
She draws on a range of evidence-based treatment modalities, including: Mindfulness-based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, EMDR, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Attachment-based Therapy and Neuro-psychotherapy.
Do emotions sometimes become too painful and overwhelming? Taking that first step to contact someone for help can be very difficult. Establishing a caring therapeutic relationship attuned to individual needs is central to Susanna’s work. As research supports, the therapeutic relationship is the most powerful determinant of a positive outcome in psychotherapy. Susanna encourages her clients to explore and become aware how early experiences shape their present thoughts and behaviours. Gaining a greater understanding of their circumstances, allows for an empowered sense of their ability to create positive change.
She draws on a range of evidence-based treatment modalities, including: Mindfulness-based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, EMDR, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Attachment-based Therapy and Neuro-psychotherapy.
Do emotions sometimes become too painful and overwhelming? Taking that first step to contact someone for help can be very difficult. Establishing a caring therapeutic relationship attuned to individual needs is central to Susanna’s work. As research supports, the therapeutic relationship is the most powerful determinant of a positive outcome in psychotherapy. Susanna encourages her clients to explore and become aware how early experiences shape their present thoughts and behaviours. Gaining a greater understanding of their circumstances, allows for an empowered sense of their ability to create positive change.
0498 116 684 View 0498 116 684
Photo of Deborah Wright - Perth Counselling & Psychotherapy Services, Psychotherapist
I work with heterosexual, multiracial, same sex couples and individuals who are in a place of questioning or are seeking help with a specific situation or event. Couples may be wanting some "fine tuning" in specific areas of their relationship or they may be experiencing a crisis due to an infidelity or breakdown in communication and may be unsure if they can or even want to, stay together. Individuals may be ready to explore childhood issues, dealing with trauma or having an existential crisis. I teach Circle of Security an attachment based parent program for caregivers wanting to parent differently to their parents.
I work with heterosexual, multiracial, same sex couples and individuals who are in a place of questioning or are seeking help with a specific situation or event. Couples may be wanting some "fine tuning" in specific areas of their relationship or they may be experiencing a crisis due to an infidelity or breakdown in communication and may be unsure if they can or even want to, stay together. Individuals may be ready to explore childhood issues, dealing with trauma or having an existential crisis. I teach Circle of Security an attachment based parent program for caregivers wanting to parent differently to their parents.
(08) 7078 8285 View (08) 7078 8285
Photo of Francisca Lessa-Stewart, Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Francisca Lessa-Stewart
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Applecross, WA 6153
She employs a humanistic and attachment-based approach in her work with adults, children, and families.
Francisca is an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor (over 6 years experience), she provide trauma-informed psychotherapy and counselling for a variety of concerns. Franciscas services address complex trauma, abuse, emotional distress, depression, anxiety, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Francisca also supports individuals navigating significant life events, relationship challenges, and transitions. Francisca can help those struggling to find meaning, purpose, and direction in life. Francisca holds a Masters in Jungian Psychology (obtained in Uruguay) and Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy (Curtin University)
She employs a humanistic and attachment-based approach in her work with adults, children, and families.
Francisca is an experienced psychotherapist and counsellor (over 6 years experience), she provide trauma-informed psychotherapy and counselling for a variety of concerns. Franciscas services address complex trauma, abuse, emotional distress, depression, anxiety, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Francisca also supports individuals navigating significant life events, relationship challenges, and transitions. Francisca can help those struggling to find meaning, purpose, and direction in life. Francisca holds a Masters in Jungian Psychology (obtained in Uruguay) and Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy (Curtin University)
(08) 6490 9208 View (08) 6490 9208
Photo of Dr Emily Bastick - Meliora Clinical Psychology, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Meliora Clinical Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Piara Waters, WA 6112
Waitlist for new clients
Emily has experience in both public and private sectors and approaches therapy from a trauma-informed, attachment-based perspective.
Emily is an empathetic clinical psychologist who values building strong therapeutic relationships with clients. Her non-judgemental and comforting approach helps clients work on issues such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, bereavement, perinatal mental health, and adjustment issues. The therapeutic relationship can facilitate positive change and create a hopeful future outlook.
Emily has experience in both public and private sectors and approaches therapy from a trauma-informed, attachment-based perspective.
Emily is an empathetic clinical psychologist who values building strong therapeutic relationships with clients. Her non-judgemental and comforting approach helps clients work on issues such as depression, anxiety, personality disorders, trauma, bereavement, perinatal mental health, and adjustment issues. The therapeutic relationship can facilitate positive change and create a hopeful future outlook.
(08) 6383 7090 View (08) 6383 7090
Photo of Liberty Hills, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
Liberty Hills
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Liberty is a dedicated and experienced counsellor committed to providing safe, supportive, and affirming counselling for all individuals seeking support. With five years of experience, they work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent people, youth, those with disabilities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They have experience supporting individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, life transitions, emotional dysregulation, ASD, ADHD, and gender identity.
Liberty is a dedicated and experienced counsellor committed to providing safe, supportive, and affirming counselling for all individuals seeking support. With five years of experience, they work with people from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, neurodivergent people, youth, those with disabilities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They have experience supporting individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, life transitions, emotional dysregulation, ASD, ADHD, and gender identity.
(08) 6171 2080 View (08) 6171 2080
Photo of Alicia Viforj, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Alicia Viforj
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Fremantle, WA 6160
I help adults individually with depression, anxiety, low self-worth, difficulty coping, stress, emotional abuse, emotional neglect, adjustment difficulty, ADHD, insecurity, perfectionism, fear or failure, fear of abandonment, phobias, trauma and PTSD I also help with Family of origin issues – As a child did you experience feeling different to others growing up, family domestic violence, emotional abuse? Were you criticised or bullied? Did you experience low self-worth? Were you always to blame? Were your emotions dismissed or ignored by those around you or maybe you experienced a traumatic event of some kind
I help adults individually with depression, anxiety, low self-worth, difficulty coping, stress, emotional abuse, emotional neglect, adjustment difficulty, ADHD, insecurity, perfectionism, fear or failure, fear of abandonment, phobias, trauma and PTSD I also help with Family of origin issues – As a child did you experience feeling different to others growing up, family domestic violence, emotional abuse? Were you criticised or bullied? Did you experience low self-worth? Were you always to blame? Were your emotions dismissed or ignored by those around you or maybe you experienced a traumatic event of some kind
(08) 6206 8536 View (08) 6206 8536
Photo of Robert Cannella - Bright Spark Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Bright Spark Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Malaga, WA 6090
I use ACT, Attachment-based, CBT, DBT, Experiential, Person-Centred, and Play Therapy.
Autism and ADHD are not simply mental health disorders; they impact everyday functioning, relationships, and quality of life. At Bright Spark Counselling, we don’t just focus on emotional support—we help you build practical skills for independence, resilience, and long-term success. We do more than just talk. We focus on practical, outcome-driven strategies that empower individuals to develop skills, independence, and confidence in their daily lives. Our approach is particularly effective for those navigating Autism, ADHD, and disability-related challenges, offering real-world solutions that enhance quality of life.
I use ACT, Attachment-based, CBT, DBT, Experiential, Person-Centred, and Play Therapy.
Autism and ADHD are not simply mental health disorders; they impact everyday functioning, relationships, and quality of life. At Bright Spark Counselling, we don’t just focus on emotional support—we help you build practical skills for independence, resilience, and long-term success. We do more than just talk. We focus on practical, outcome-driven strategies that empower individuals to develop skills, independence, and confidence in their daily lives. Our approach is particularly effective for those navigating Autism, ADHD, and disability-related challenges, offering real-world solutions that enhance quality of life.
(08) 6206 8745 View (08) 6206 8745

See more therapy options for Perth

Attachment-based Counsellors

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioural Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.