Photo of Ingenuity Psychological Resources, Inc., Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Ingenuity Psychological Resources, Inc.
Psychologist, MS, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2T
I am a clinical psychologist in Calgary, and provide individual, family, as well as group therapy. I also provide comprehensive psychological assessment services, as well as consultation to parents, schools, health care providers, and other professionals. My experience includes previous and current employment in the health care and educational sectors, including hospital and community settings. I typically practice from a cognitive-behavioural therapy model, and use a brief, solution focused approach to therapy. My work with couples and families tends to be more emotionally focused, attachment based, and I use a family systems approach.
I am a clinical psychologist in Calgary, and provide individual, family, as well as group therapy. I also provide comprehensive psychological assessment services, as well as consultation to parents, schools, health care providers, and other professionals. My experience includes previous and current employment in the health care and educational sectors, including hospital and community settings. I typically practice from a cognitive-behavioural therapy model, and use a brief, solution focused approach to therapy. My work with couples and families tends to be more emotionally focused, attachment based, and I use a family systems approach.
(866) 942-9394 View (866) 942-9394
Photo of Amanda Hoang, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Amanda Hoang
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3K
I take an integrative approach to therapy and utilize interventions informed from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), family systems therapy, attachment-based therapy and solution-focused therapy (SFT).
Life is not without its challenges. Especially during a pandemic, day-to-day life can be even more overwhelming. The good news is that I am here to help. Whether you are experiencing low mood, anxiety, relationship problems, or trauma, my goal is to assist you in working towards the future you desire. I believe all individuals have the capacity to grow from their current circumstances. My priority is ensuring that my clients feel safe, valued, and heard, while also providing exceptional clinical support. I strive to create an atmosphere that is welcoming for all individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
I take an integrative approach to therapy and utilize interventions informed from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), family systems therapy, attachment-based therapy and solution-focused therapy (SFT).
Life is not without its challenges. Especially during a pandemic, day-to-day life can be even more overwhelming. The good news is that I am here to help. Whether you are experiencing low mood, anxiety, relationship problems, or trauma, my goal is to assist you in working towards the future you desire. I believe all individuals have the capacity to grow from their current circumstances. My priority is ensuring that my clients feel safe, valued, and heard, while also providing exceptional clinical support. I strive to create an atmosphere that is welcoming for all individuals from diverse backgrounds, and I am LGBTQ+ affirming.
(587) 806-5022 View (587) 806-5022
Photo of Melissa Baisi, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Melissa Baisi
Psychologist, BA, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T  (Online Only)
Attachment-based therapy would be considered a long-term, emotion-focused therapy.
Have you been called needy? Or been called cold/distant by people you’re in relationship with? Do you find you vacillate between feeling needy or emotionally shut down? These issues are based on, what psychologists call, insecure attachment styles. These are relationship styles that we subconsciously learn when we are young and take with us into adulthood.
Attachment-based therapy would be considered a long-term, emotion-focused therapy.
Have you been called needy? Or been called cold/distant by people you’re in relationship with? Do you find you vacillate between feeling needy or emotionally shut down? These issues are based on, what psychologists call, insecure attachment styles. These are relationship styles that we subconsciously learn when we are young and take with us into adulthood.
(844) 334-3395 View (844) 334-3395
Photo of Karen Fabian, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Karen Fabian
Psychologist, BSc, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3H
My career has centered around my primary area of interest concerning relationship dynamics and the impact and understanding of insecurity, frustration, anxiety and loss. I am passionate about supporting parents in understanding the influence of early life experiences and how those shape emotional development and our ability to remain connected to our children. My work is influenced by attachment-based therapy, narrative therapy, humanistic and experiential play approaches.
My career has centered around my primary area of interest concerning relationship dynamics and the impact and understanding of insecurity, frustration, anxiety and loss. I am passionate about supporting parents in understanding the influence of early life experiences and how those shape emotional development and our ability to remain connected to our children. My work is influenced by attachment-based therapy, narrative therapy, humanistic and experiential play approaches.
(587) 600-2409 View (587) 600-2409
Photo of Calgary Family Psychology LTD, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Calgary Family Psychology LTD
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3E
I believe people behave the way they do for really good reasons, even if they are unhelpful. Children are complex creatures and raising them can be a struggle, especially while meeting life's demands. Whether your child struggles with regulating emotions, has difficult behaviors or you yourself are having trouble with mood, mental health or managing stressors, I am here to help. I offer wholistic assessment and treatment to bring the peace, you and your family deserve. I work with children, adults and families struggling with a range of mental health and relationship concerns. Your home is my office. I will come to you.
I believe people behave the way they do for really good reasons, even if they are unhelpful. Children are complex creatures and raising them can be a struggle, especially while meeting life's demands. Whether your child struggles with regulating emotions, has difficult behaviors or you yourself are having trouble with mood, mental health or managing stressors, I am here to help. I offer wholistic assessment and treatment to bring the peace, you and your family deserve. I work with children, adults and families struggling with a range of mental health and relationship concerns. Your home is my office. I will come to you.
(825) 798-0523 View (825) 798-0523
Photo of Samantha Kerr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Samantha Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
I will use a humanistic, attachment-based and trauma-informed approach to connect with and better understand you.
Hello and welcome. Are you looking to make lasting changes in your life? Are you seeking more balance and deeper connections with others? If so, therapy can be a great way to help you identify what is both causing and maintaining various problems in your life and ways of overcoming them. If you are navigating issues of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, attachment difficulties, or other life challenges, you have come to the right place. I specialize in life transitions including birth and death, family and relationship conflict, including alternative relationships (i.e. non-monogamy), and attachment issues.
I will use a humanistic, attachment-based and trauma-informed approach to connect with and better understand you.
Hello and welcome. Are you looking to make lasting changes in your life? Are you seeking more balance and deeper connections with others? If so, therapy can be a great way to help you identify what is both causing and maintaining various problems in your life and ways of overcoming them. If you are navigating issues of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, attachment difficulties, or other life challenges, you have come to the right place. I specialize in life transitions including birth and death, family and relationship conflict, including alternative relationships (i.e. non-monogamy), and attachment issues.
(587) 856-0549 View (587) 856-0549
Photo of Nikki Buffie: Anxiety Relationships Mens Mental Health, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Nikki Buffie: Anxiety Relationships Mens Mental Health
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, BCR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2J
Waitlist for new clients
I respect that everyone experiences life differently, coming to therapy with their own story. At times, the voice that tells the story may be self-criticizing and judgemental. My hope for our work together is that you come back to yourself and recognize your inherent strength and capacity for growth. Working from an attachment-based and trauma-informed perspective, I will meet you in a space of authenticity and vulnerability as we explore your inner world and help you develop a stronger and safer connection to self, others, and the world around you. All of you is welcome here, and it is my pleasure to join you.
I respect that everyone experiences life differently, coming to therapy with their own story. At times, the voice that tells the story may be self-criticizing and judgemental. My hope for our work together is that you come back to yourself and recognize your inherent strength and capacity for growth. Working from an attachment-based and trauma-informed perspective, I will meet you in a space of authenticity and vulnerability as we explore your inner world and help you develop a stronger and safer connection to self, others, and the world around you. All of you is welcome here, and it is my pleasure to join you.
(825) 251-5321 View (825) 251-5321
Photo of Karen Turnock - Specializing In Women's Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Karen Turnock - Specializing In Women's Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Y  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in Perinatal and Maternal Mental Health, in EMDR for trauma, in CBT for anxiety and depression, in Grief and Loss and in Developmental and Attachment-based models for Parent and Relationship coaching.
Modern motherhood is overwhelming and intense. I work with women from the start of their fertility journey through the many phases of parenting. Clients are often working through difficult core memories, recent or past losses and traumatic events, are making sense of this time of transition and are processing points of stress and anxiety. My approaches are grounded in attachment and child development theory and I'm often working with moms to better understand their child's behaviour and why it can be so dysregulating. Most of all, I'm passionate about supporting women in finding joy and thriving during these vulnerable years.
I have specialized training in Perinatal and Maternal Mental Health, in EMDR for trauma, in CBT for anxiety and depression, in Grief and Loss and in Developmental and Attachment-based models for Parent and Relationship coaching.
Modern motherhood is overwhelming and intense. I work with women from the start of their fertility journey through the many phases of parenting. Clients are often working through difficult core memories, recent or past losses and traumatic events, are making sense of this time of transition and are processing points of stress and anxiety. My approaches are grounded in attachment and child development theory and I'm often working with moms to better understand their child's behaviour and why it can be so dysregulating. Most of all, I'm passionate about supporting women in finding joy and thriving during these vulnerable years.
(587) 324-2247 View (587) 324-2247
Photo of Angela Normand, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Angela Normand
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
You're here! This step is often the hardest part! Life can be hard... I get it! The stuff that makes life tricky shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we make sense of the world. Life experiences form our core beliefs that often get in the way of living the life you desire. As an attachment-based therapist, I work hard to create a safe space where you can confront the tough stuff and begin to rewrite your story. I show up with compassion, acceptance, and humour, to dig into what is getting in the way of you living your truth.
You're here! This step is often the hardest part! Life can be hard... I get it! The stuff that makes life tricky shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we make sense of the world. Life experiences form our core beliefs that often get in the way of living the life you desire. As an attachment-based therapist, I work hard to create a safe space where you can confront the tough stuff and begin to rewrite your story. I show up with compassion, acceptance, and humour, to dig into what is getting in the way of you living your truth.
(587) 400-2145 View (587) 400-2145
Photo of Jacqueline Van Starkenburg, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Jacqueline Van Starkenburg
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP, BCHST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
I enjoy helping others and have over 15 years experience in the helping professions. I work with adults, children and families and specialize in trauma, neurodiversity, family conflict, parenting, anger and self regulation. I am also skilled in helping those who choose to use violence in their relationships. I work from both a trauma informed and attachment based lens.
I enjoy helping others and have over 15 years experience in the helping professions. I work with adults, children and families and specialize in trauma, neurodiversity, family conflict, parenting, anger and self regulation. I am also skilled in helping those who choose to use violence in their relationships. I work from both a trauma informed and attachment based lens.
(825) 254-7901 View (825) 254-7901
Photo of Lois McCormack, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Lois McCormack
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, BSW, BSc
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
I'm an experienced parent coach and couple therapist. I love to help parents understand their children's behaviours from the inside out and get them back in the driver's seat! To accomplish this, I have found Dr. Gordon Neufeld's attachment and developmental approach to be most effective. With my couples, I use a research backed model called EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy). EFT pays particular attention to those interactions where couples get stuck, those moments where the signals get scrambled. It provides a road map to identify the negative pattern, de-escalate emotional reactivity and re-establish the connection.
I'm an experienced parent coach and couple therapist. I love to help parents understand their children's behaviours from the inside out and get them back in the driver's seat! To accomplish this, I have found Dr. Gordon Neufeld's attachment and developmental approach to be most effective. With my couples, I use a research backed model called EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy). EFT pays particular attention to those interactions where couples get stuck, those moments where the signals get scrambled. It provides a road map to identify the negative pattern, de-escalate emotional reactivity and re-establish the connection.
(833) 372-3711 View (833) 372-3711
Photo of Sarah Mateshaytis, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Sarah Mateshaytis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3E
I have further training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution-focused Brief Therapy, and Functional Family Therapy, and I have an attachment-based and systems-oriented approach to counselling.
Sometimes life is messy and complicated, and we don’t always have the tools or strategies to manage what comes our way. Sometimes we need a different perspective, or a challenge to see things in a new way. Sometimes we need to have the hard conversations. Whatever it is for you right now, welcome. My goal is to work with you to get you where you want to be. We'll do that using a variety of tools, techniques, and approaches throughout our counselling process, all the while focusing on our relationship (this part's key). We'll collaborate together and I'll seek your feedback along the way.
I have further training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution-focused Brief Therapy, and Functional Family Therapy, and I have an attachment-based and systems-oriented approach to counselling.
Sometimes life is messy and complicated, and we don’t always have the tools or strategies to manage what comes our way. Sometimes we need a different perspective, or a challenge to see things in a new way. Sometimes we need to have the hard conversations. Whatever it is for you right now, welcome. My goal is to work with you to get you where you want to be. We'll do that using a variety of tools, techniques, and approaches throughout our counselling process, all the while focusing on our relationship (this part's key). We'll collaborate together and I'll seek your feedback along the way.
(587) 841-0857 View (587) 841-0857
Photo of Rose Thatcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Rose Thatcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, BSW, BCC, RCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
Hi! Let’s take a deep breath: you’ve made it past the first step of identifying you need some help. In a world that is often too loud and busy, it is easy to fall into thought patterns that you are lacking; as a therapist, it is my role to help you shift that narrative from deficit to plenty. I believe mental health is fluid experience and that understanding your emotions and building meaningful coping strategies is key to sustainable resilience. My role is to create a safe and empathetic space for you to be vulnerable and show up as your authentic self. My practice style is grounded in attachment-based and family systems theory.
Hi! Let’s take a deep breath: you’ve made it past the first step of identifying you need some help. In a world that is often too loud and busy, it is easy to fall into thought patterns that you are lacking; as a therapist, it is my role to help you shift that narrative from deficit to plenty. I believe mental health is fluid experience and that understanding your emotions and building meaningful coping strategies is key to sustainable resilience. My role is to create a safe and empathetic space for you to be vulnerable and show up as your authentic self. My practice style is grounded in attachment-based and family systems theory.
(825) 250-0618 View (825) 250-0618
Photo of Hali Fehr, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Hali Fehr
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
I am happy to provide interventions such as cognitive behavioural therapy, attachment-based, and person-centered therapy to suit your individual needs.
Do you feel like life is demanding more than what you can handle? Do you feel like you’re going through the motions without feeling like an active participant in your own life? Do you struggle with lack of motivation in one or more areas in your life? Trying to prioritize your health while also caring for others can leave you feeling disconnected, anxious and depressed. Becoming aware of the areas in our life that you want to improve is the first step in beginning to shift your perspective and attitude, to take a more active role in navigating your life and to feeling more fulfilled.
I am happy to provide interventions such as cognitive behavioural therapy, attachment-based, and person-centered therapy to suit your individual needs.
Do you feel like life is demanding more than what you can handle? Do you feel like you’re going through the motions without feeling like an active participant in your own life? Do you struggle with lack of motivation in one or more areas in your life? Trying to prioritize your health while also caring for others can leave you feeling disconnected, anxious and depressed. Becoming aware of the areas in our life that you want to improve is the first step in beginning to shift your perspective and attitude, to take a more active role in navigating your life and to feeling more fulfilled.
(825) 251-9446 x224 View (825) 251-9446 x224
Photo of Sunny Cheung, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Sunny Cheung
Registered Provisional Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
I work from an attachment-based perspective and I provide trauma-informed care.
Distress can be the catalyst for personal growth and meaningful transformation. The journey can take many paths and I would be honoured to join you. We will work collaboratively together and provide guidance toward positive change. We will focus on trust to create a safe and supportive relationship. It is crucial to me that we have a strong relationship in the therapy room, laying the foundation for effective therapy. I find value in understanding how past experiences shape our ways of thinking, relationship patterns, and coping mechanisms. In other times of need, we will focus on the urgent crisis at hand.
I work from an attachment-based perspective and I provide trauma-informed care.
Distress can be the catalyst for personal growth and meaningful transformation. The journey can take many paths and I would be honoured to join you. We will work collaboratively together and provide guidance toward positive change. We will focus on trust to create a safe and supportive relationship. It is crucial to me that we have a strong relationship in the therapy room, laying the foundation for effective therapy. I find value in understanding how past experiences shape our ways of thinking, relationship patterns, and coping mechanisms. In other times of need, we will focus on the urgent crisis at hand.
(587) 856-8441 View (587) 856-8441
Photo of Tiffany Warren, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Tiffany Warren
Psychologist, MACP, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
Approaches include Trauma-Informed, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, polyvagal theory, Narrative, Solution-focused, Emotionally focused, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Attachment-based, play and art-based interventions, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Strength-based.
I have over 15 years of experience in supporting children, teens and adults in various community, non-profit and school-based settings. During this time, I supported people from all walks of life while they navigated life's challenges.I define myself as a relationship-based therapist and, hence, have a strong belief in the power of connection between therapist and client. I strive to develop a supportive and understanding relationship with clients, and create an environment of empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard.
Approaches include Trauma-Informed, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, polyvagal theory, Narrative, Solution-focused, Emotionally focused, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Attachment-based, play and art-based interventions, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Strength-based.
I have over 15 years of experience in supporting children, teens and adults in various community, non-profit and school-based settings. During this time, I supported people from all walks of life while they navigated life's challenges.I define myself as a relationship-based therapist and, hence, have a strong belief in the power of connection between therapist and client. I strive to develop a supportive and understanding relationship with clients, and create an environment of empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard.
(825) 809-5461 View (825) 809-5461
Photo of Natasha Thibodeau, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Natasha Thibodeau
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3C
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based, and systemic approaches to dig deeper and help create lasting change.
Do you feel overwhelmed with parenting, work, relationships, or the demands of day-to-day life? Do you feel like you’re not the person you want to be - feeling lost, anxious, hopeless, or not good enough? I’m here to help. I believe in the power of connection to heal, and I’m passionate about collaborating with people like you - to help you feel seen, uncover the reasons for your struggles, and help you feel better.
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based, and systemic approaches to dig deeper and help create lasting change.
Do you feel overwhelmed with parenting, work, relationships, or the demands of day-to-day life? Do you feel like you’re not the person you want to be - feeling lost, anxious, hopeless, or not good enough? I’m here to help. I believe in the power of connection to heal, and I’m passionate about collaborating with people like you - to help you feel seen, uncover the reasons for your struggles, and help you feel better.
(587) 609-5457 View (587) 609-5457
Photo of Solace Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Solace Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2M
My goal is to connect with you in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I work collaboratively with my clients towards finding relief and life changing solutions, recognizing that people have power and strength within them. Whether it's problematic relationships, parenting support, stress, family dynamics, mental health issues or trauma that is impacting your life, I have seen over and over that change can happen. I offer a warm approach to therapy and welcome any struggle, small or large. Although I work with a variety of adult clients I am known for easily connecting with children and adolescents.
My goal is to connect with you in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I work collaboratively with my clients towards finding relief and life changing solutions, recognizing that people have power and strength within them. Whether it's problematic relationships, parenting support, stress, family dynamics, mental health issues or trauma that is impacting your life, I have seen over and over that change can happen. I offer a warm approach to therapy and welcome any struggle, small or large. Although I work with a variety of adult clients I am known for easily connecting with children and adolescents.
(825) 445-0050 View (825) 445-0050
Photo of Emmaus Psychology, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Emmaus Psychology
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
I have certified training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Level 1&2 Gottman Couples Therapy, Play Therapy, and Neufeld study on an Attachment-Based Developmental Approach.
*NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT EMMAUS PSYCHOLOGY* I am a Registered Psychologist specializing in individual therapy, couples counselling, and parent support. I understand that deciding to begin therapy can be intimidating, difficult, and overwhelming. However, therapy can help individuals overcome many obstacles, express themselves, and discover new possibilities. I walk along side my clients to help them achieve their goals and create a life full of meaning and purpose. I offer a non-judgemental view, empathetic listening, a warm and welcoming environment, and true compassion and acceptance.
I have certified training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Level 1&2 Gottman Couples Therapy, Play Therapy, and Neufeld study on an Attachment-Based Developmental Approach.
*NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AT EMMAUS PSYCHOLOGY* I am a Registered Psychologist specializing in individual therapy, couples counselling, and parent support. I understand that deciding to begin therapy can be intimidating, difficult, and overwhelming. However, therapy can help individuals overcome many obstacles, express themselves, and discover new possibilities. I walk along side my clients to help them achieve their goals and create a life full of meaning and purpose. I offer a non-judgemental view, empathetic listening, a warm and welcoming environment, and true compassion and acceptance.
(587) 507-3794 View (587) 507-3794
Photo of Zinah Al-Saffar, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Zinah Al-Saffar
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
My areas of clinical expertise include anxiety, trauma and C-PTSD, dissociation, panic attacks, obsessive- compulsive disorder, parenting, relationship difficulties, couple and family issues, anger management, disordered eating, postpartum depression, managing emotions, addictions, sleeping issues, self-esteem, body image, nightmares, and others. I work with youth, adults, couples and families. I provide services in English and Arabic languages.
My areas of clinical expertise include anxiety, trauma and C-PTSD, dissociation, panic attacks, obsessive- compulsive disorder, parenting, relationship difficulties, couple and family issues, anger management, disordered eating, postpartum depression, managing emotions, addictions, sleeping issues, self-esteem, body image, nightmares, and others. I work with youth, adults, couples and families. I provide services in English and Arabic languages.
(825) 602-5049 View (825) 602-5049

See more therapy options for Calgary

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 Biobehavioral 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.