Photo of Brittany MacCartney, Counsellor in British Columbia
Brittany MacCartney
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I specialize in sexual struggles and am training to be a sex therapist. I work with adults and adolescents on topics ranging from sex, sex work, sexuality, sexual dysfunctions, sex/porn "addiction", queer-identity, polyamory, life transitions, childhood trauma, medical trauma, panic/anxiety. I also work with couples and families drawing from Sue Johnson’s Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Which features attachment based interventions grounded within finding empathy, compassion, and care for both yourself and your partner while creating new patterns of interacting.
I specialize in sexual struggles and am training to be a sex therapist. I work with adults and adolescents on topics ranging from sex, sex work, sexuality, sexual dysfunctions, sex/porn "addiction", queer-identity, polyamory, life transitions, childhood trauma, medical trauma, panic/anxiety. I also work with couples and families drawing from Sue Johnson’s Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Which features attachment based interventions grounded within finding empathy, compassion, and care for both yourself and your partner while creating new patterns of interacting.
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Photo of Stephanie Orr, Pre-Licensed Professional in British Columbia
Stephanie Orr
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5V
My approach to counselling is holistic (mind, body, and spirit), emotion-focused, attachment-based, person-centred, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive.
When we’re alone, facing what causes us pain and discomfort can be confusing and overwhelming. I believe that therapy is the doorway to self-knowing and that the most profound healing occurs when exploration happens in the presence of a safe and supportive other. My goal as a therapist is to provide a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where together we can explore and work through the difficult feelings, thoughts, and experiences that are impacting your personal functioning, relationships, and healing.
My approach to counselling is holistic (mind, body, and spirit), emotion-focused, attachment-based, person-centred, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressive.
When we’re alone, facing what causes us pain and discomfort can be confusing and overwhelming. I believe that therapy is the doorway to self-knowing and that the most profound healing occurs when exploration happens in the presence of a safe and supportive other. My goal as a therapist is to provide a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where together we can explore and work through the difficult feelings, thoughts, and experiences that are impacting your personal functioning, relationships, and healing.
(873) 301-0375 View (873) 301-0375
Photo of Sarah Duncan, Counsellor in British Columbia
Sarah Duncan
Counsellor, MA , RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Duncan, BC V9L
When we work together it will be about supporting you in moving out of ways of being that no longer serve you in a helpful way and into a more connected, aware and preferred place. Collaboratively working to understand and shift the impacts that traumatic events have had on your life and building on your energy levels so that you can feel a deeper sense of ease, belonging and happiness. Be it parenting support, family therapy or individual youth and or adult sessions, together we can create a space that upholds your dignity and highlights your intrinsic strengths as we navigate changes together towards a more preferred sense of you.
When we work together it will be about supporting you in moving out of ways of being that no longer serve you in a helpful way and into a more connected, aware and preferred place. Collaboratively working to understand and shift the impacts that traumatic events have had on your life and building on your energy levels so that you can feel a deeper sense of ease, belonging and happiness. Be it parenting support, family therapy or individual youth and or adult sessions, together we can create a space that upholds your dignity and highlights your intrinsic strengths as we navigate changes together towards a more preferred sense of you.
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Photo of Melissa Ko, Pre-Licensed Professional in British Columbia
Melissa Ko
Pre-Licensed Professional, BKin
Verified Verified
Langley, BC V3A
Through a holistic and attachment-based lens, we will work collaboratively to explore your relationships and experiences to cultivate strategies for healing, self-expression, and self-compassion.
Welcome to a warm and compassionate space where healing begins! I am a dedicated trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and neurodivergent-affirming intern therapist specializing in the healing of trauma and attachment wounds. I aim to help clients work towards integration and wholeness by targeting the root of your symptoms to get you unstuck, allowing you to move forward in life. I work to provide personalized support for individuals seeking to reclaim their lives from the grip of past wounds and lingering symptoms. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space to support you on your journey towards healing and transformation.
Through a holistic and attachment-based lens, we will work collaboratively to explore your relationships and experiences to cultivate strategies for healing, self-expression, and self-compassion.
Welcome to a warm and compassionate space where healing begins! I am a dedicated trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and neurodivergent-affirming intern therapist specializing in the healing of trauma and attachment wounds. I aim to help clients work towards integration and wholeness by targeting the root of your symptoms to get you unstuck, allowing you to move forward in life. I work to provide personalized support for individuals seeking to reclaim their lives from the grip of past wounds and lingering symptoms. My goal is to create a safe and inclusive space to support you on your journey towards healing and transformation.
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Photo of Sandy Kirkwood, Counsellor in British Columbia
Sandy Kirkwood
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6Z
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based methods.
Hello and welcome! I hope I can be of service to you in your healing journey. My intention as a therapist is that you feel heard and understood as you expand your self-knowledge and move towards your goals. I bring curiosity, compassion, warmth and respect to this work. I view my role as that of co-inquirer into the larger perspective of what might be going on for you. Through deep and intuitive listening, I often find connections between your current situation and what might be truly at issue. We may look at learned patterns and coping methods that are no longer serving you. Some of those patterns may have come from unaddressed tr
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based methods.
Hello and welcome! I hope I can be of service to you in your healing journey. My intention as a therapist is that you feel heard and understood as you expand your self-knowledge and move towards your goals. I bring curiosity, compassion, warmth and respect to this work. I view my role as that of co-inquirer into the larger perspective of what might be going on for you. Through deep and intuitive listening, I often find connections between your current situation and what might be truly at issue. We may look at learned patterns and coping methods that are no longer serving you. Some of those patterns may have come from unaddressed tr
(778) 719-6671 View (778) 719-6671
Photo of Nicole Che, Counsellor in British Columbia
Nicole Che
Counsellor, MC, RCC, MD, MBBCh
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H  (Online Only)
I use theories and techniques from emotionally focused therapy, attachment-based theory, acceptance and commitment therapy, CBT, DBT, and Gottman Couples Therapy to provide different perspectives, inform though-provoking question, and work through traumas.
Welcoming new clients for virtual appointments only! My areas of focus revolve around the relationship with self and others (friends, partners, families), life transitions, and grief and loss. We will work together to reconnect you with yourself and make sense of the world around you. My hope is to help you find understanding, acceptance and clarity so you can get unstuck and choose a way forward. My experience includes working with people struggling with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, self-love, complex PTSD/trauma, family conflict, and personality disorders.
I use theories and techniques from emotionally focused therapy, attachment-based theory, acceptance and commitment therapy, CBT, DBT, and Gottman Couples Therapy to provide different perspectives, inform though-provoking question, and work through traumas.
Welcoming new clients for virtual appointments only! My areas of focus revolve around the relationship with self and others (friends, partners, families), life transitions, and grief and loss. We will work together to reconnect you with yourself and make sense of the world around you. My hope is to help you find understanding, acceptance and clarity so you can get unstuck and choose a way forward. My experience includes working with people struggling with anxiety and depression, grief and loss, relationship challenges, self-love, complex PTSD/trauma, family conflict, and personality disorders.
(672) 906-1325 View (672) 906-1325
Photo of Amy Chiasson, Counsellor in British Columbia
Amy Chiasson
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chilliwack, BC V2R
It is my belief that as humans we are biologically wired to heal; each of us already holds the internal resources needed to grow and thrive. As a counsellor, I would be honoured to walk alongside you as a guide in uncovering these resources, offering warmth and a grounding presence alongside evidence-based interventions to assist you on this journey. I offer an integrated approach to counselling, utilizing attachment-based, emotion-focused, and body-based practices alongside internal parts work in my practice. I believe it is important to create space for the body, mind, and spirit to be present in our work together.
It is my belief that as humans we are biologically wired to heal; each of us already holds the internal resources needed to grow and thrive. As a counsellor, I would be honoured to walk alongside you as a guide in uncovering these resources, offering warmth and a grounding presence alongside evidence-based interventions to assist you on this journey. I offer an integrated approach to counselling, utilizing attachment-based, emotion-focused, and body-based practices alongside internal parts work in my practice. I believe it is important to create space for the body, mind, and spirit to be present in our work together.
(438) 834-3141 View (438) 834-3141
Photo of Lauren Gelfer, Counsellor in British Columbia
Lauren Gelfer
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V5Y  (Online Only)
I’m a registered clinical counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology, I’m trained in trauma-informed, somatic, relational, neuroscience, and attachment-based therapies and have a decade of experience in the field of mental health.
Hi! I’m Lauren (she/her). I’m here to help you heal, grow and thrive by tapping into the inner knowing and wisdom of your body and heart, and by encouraging you to step into your power and truth. The clients who seek me out are often on journeys of self discovery or facing life transitions that open up questions and possibilities about who they are, what matters most to them, and how they want to live. I was called to this work through my personal journey of owning my unique path in life, despite it being different than the societal expectations that I grew up with.
I’m a registered clinical counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology, I’m trained in trauma-informed, somatic, relational, neuroscience, and attachment-based therapies and have a decade of experience in the field of mental health.
Hi! I’m Lauren (she/her). I’m here to help you heal, grow and thrive by tapping into the inner knowing and wisdom of your body and heart, and by encouraging you to step into your power and truth. The clients who seek me out are often on journeys of self discovery or facing life transitions that open up questions and possibilities about who they are, what matters most to them, and how they want to live. I was called to this work through my personal journey of owning my unique path in life, despite it being different than the societal expectations that I grew up with.
(819) 201-2077 View (819) 201-2077
Photo of Karen Ergas, Psychologist in British Columbia
Karen Ergas
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
North Vancouver, BC V7G  (Online Only)
I am a registered psychologist with over 25 years experience working with individuals along the full spectrum of disordered eating. I also have experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, self esteem, perfectionism, relationship difficulties etc. Making the commitment to seek therapy is a courageous step. Feelings of shame are common. I try to create a relaxed atmosphere that progresses at a pace that is comfortable for you and at the same time challenges you to heal and grow.
I am a registered psychologist with over 25 years experience working with individuals along the full spectrum of disordered eating. I also have experience working with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, self esteem, perfectionism, relationship difficulties etc. Making the commitment to seek therapy is a courageous step. Feelings of shame are common. I try to create a relaxed atmosphere that progresses at a pace that is comfortable for you and at the same time challenges you to heal and grow.
(581) 501-5221 View (581) 501-5221
Photo of Ruby Sall, Pre-Licensed Professional in British Columbia
Ruby Sall
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Langley, BC V3A
The process of self-learning and connecting to our stories to make sense of our experiences, can be challenging and uncomfortable. In this journey, we can experience many difficult realties. You may find yourself lost and overwhelmed, while carrying the immense heaviness of these struggles. Therapy can be a transformative tool to support you in this journey. It is a profound honour to support children and adults foster their healing and make space for their collective emotions so they may engage in life with a larger capacity. My intention is to provide a safe therapeutic place where your voice is supported.
The process of self-learning and connecting to our stories to make sense of our experiences, can be challenging and uncomfortable. In this journey, we can experience many difficult realties. You may find yourself lost and overwhelmed, while carrying the immense heaviness of these struggles. Therapy can be a transformative tool to support you in this journey. It is a profound honour to support children and adults foster their healing and make space for their collective emotions so they may engage in life with a larger capacity. My intention is to provide a safe therapeutic place where your voice is supported.
(604) 532-5340 View (604) 532-5340
Photo of Patricia Petersen, Counsellor in British Columbia
Patricia Petersen
Counsellor, RCC, SEP, CCC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6K  (Online Only)
You are asking the big existential questions. Why am I here? What is the purpose of my life? Perhaps you keep looking to self-help books and always taking the next seminar or online course - always looking for the answers outside yourself. You want to feel connected to yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you, yet you feel like you don't belong. You feel loss and grief and are searching for purpose but are living with depression and anxiety and questioning your self-worth.
You are asking the big existential questions. Why am I here? What is the purpose of my life? Perhaps you keep looking to self-help books and always taking the next seminar or online course - always looking for the answers outside yourself. You want to feel connected to yourself, your loved ones, and the world around you, yet you feel like you don't belong. You feel loss and grief and are searching for purpose but are living with depression and anxiety and questioning your self-worth.
(705) 980-0918 View (705) 980-0918
Photo of Dawn Serra, Pre-Licensed Professional in British Columbia
Dawn Serra
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Langley, BC V2Y
My specialities include supporting people in bigger bodies, couples, and cultivating self-compassion. Those who come to see me are often looking for a fat therapist who understands the nuances of navigating the world in a bigger body. Many are looking for ways to come home to their body, are struggling with eating disorders, or want to examine their relationship to boundaries & pleasure. Clients often reach out to me because they know that I practice from a Health at Every Size(R)/anti-diet framework. Couples seek me out because I offer a gentle, playful, skilled container for strengthening and/or repairing their relationship.
My specialities include supporting people in bigger bodies, couples, and cultivating self-compassion. Those who come to see me are often looking for a fat therapist who understands the nuances of navigating the world in a bigger body. Many are looking for ways to come home to their body, are struggling with eating disorders, or want to examine their relationship to boundaries & pleasure. Clients often reach out to me because they know that I practice from a Health at Every Size(R)/anti-diet framework. Couples seek me out because I offer a gentle, playful, skilled container for strengthening and/or repairing their relationship.
(778) 601-7597 x100 View (778) 601-7597 x100
Photo of Shoshana Hain Counselling & Psychotherapy, Counsellor in British Columbia
Shoshana Hain Counselling & Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MA, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, BC V6H  (Online Only)
I use evidence-based CBT (and psychodynamic, person-centred, attachment, EMDR and mindfulness based stress reduction). I have nearly twenty years of experience counselling individuals, couples and families to gain insights and learn strategic tools to reduce anxiety and lead to self-fulfillment and healthier relationships. Previous experience- Supervisor of Therapists, and counselling trainees. Specialized training in Mindfulness Stress Reduction, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Eye-movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Specializing in anxiety and low mood management, self-esteem building, relationship issues and concerns.
I use evidence-based CBT (and psychodynamic, person-centred, attachment, EMDR and mindfulness based stress reduction). I have nearly twenty years of experience counselling individuals, couples and families to gain insights and learn strategic tools to reduce anxiety and lead to self-fulfillment and healthier relationships. Previous experience- Supervisor of Therapists, and counselling trainees. Specialized training in Mindfulness Stress Reduction, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Eye-movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Specializing in anxiety and low mood management, self-esteem building, relationship issues and concerns.
(778) 770-1406 View (778) 770-1406
Photo of Alex Roberts, Counsellor in British Columbia
Alex Roberts
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R
In everyday life, you’re doing exactly what you think you should be doing, but somehow, you feel dissatisfied. You miss feeling close to friends and community. At work, you find yourself distracted and unproductive. As much as you’d like to return to your creative pursuits, they seem out of reach. You’re often anxious and don’t know why. A sense of uncertainty and aimlessness makes it feel like you’re not going in the right direction, or perhaps like you’re stuck in a frustrating loop. This can lead to feelings of isolation, or disconnection from the people you care about - including yourself.
In everyday life, you’re doing exactly what you think you should be doing, but somehow, you feel dissatisfied. You miss feeling close to friends and community. At work, you find yourself distracted and unproductive. As much as you’d like to return to your creative pursuits, they seem out of reach. You’re often anxious and don’t know why. A sense of uncertainty and aimlessness makes it feel like you’re not going in the right direction, or perhaps like you’re stuck in a frustrating loop. This can lead to feelings of isolation, or disconnection from the people you care about - including yourself.
(249) 486-6845 View (249) 486-6845
Photo of Retreat Cove Counselling, Counsellor in British Columbia
Retreat Cove Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galiano, BC V0N
Getting support to heal and thrive takes courage! At Retreat Cove Counselling, I offer an environment that is direct, transparent, caring, and nonjudgmental. I believe that the role of the counsellor is one of facilitation and collaboration. I am interested in working alongside individuals, families, neurodiversity, 2SLGBTQI+ folks, and people in a variety of relationship structures. I aim towards an anti-oppressive framework and welcome feedback. I draw on a variety of approaches to support people in developing skills and strategies that are practical and creative.
Getting support to heal and thrive takes courage! At Retreat Cove Counselling, I offer an environment that is direct, transparent, caring, and nonjudgmental. I believe that the role of the counsellor is one of facilitation and collaboration. I am interested in working alongside individuals, families, neurodiversity, 2SLGBTQI+ folks, and people in a variety of relationship structures. I aim towards an anti-oppressive framework and welcome feedback. I draw on a variety of approaches to support people in developing skills and strategies that are practical and creative.
(604) 337-1342 View (604) 337-1342
Photo of Hannah English, Counsellor in British Columbia
Hannah English
Counsellor, RCC, MACP, BSc
Verified Verified
Hiya! Welcome! My approach to counselling is to create a meaningful connection and a safe space where you can engage in self exploration, free of judgement, through person centred, and trauma-informed approaches. In a world of information overload, I try to slow it down and explore inner thoughts and sensations that don't always have the opportunity to express themselves, while also looking for patterns along the way to help make sense of it all. I view you as the expert in your life, and my job is to ask you the right questions and help you reflect.
Hiya! Welcome! My approach to counselling is to create a meaningful connection and a safe space where you can engage in self exploration, free of judgement, through person centred, and trauma-informed approaches. In a world of information overload, I try to slow it down and explore inner thoughts and sensations that don't always have the opportunity to express themselves, while also looking for patterns along the way to help make sense of it all. I view you as the expert in your life, and my job is to ask you the right questions and help you reflect.
(819) 410-9404 View (819) 410-9404
Photo of Natalia Sarmiento, Counsellor in British Columbia
Natalia Sarmiento
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, BC V6S  (Online Only)
I am passionate about self-discovery, embodiment, creativity, and conscious living. My goal is to support my clients on their journey back to their truest, most embodied selves. I offer different modalities to explore and help bring awareness to our deepest wants and needs, and to open space for expansion and genuine self-expression. I believe that a truthful, embodied life involves body, mind, and spirit, so I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where every aspect of our complex inner lives can come to light and be witnessed with compassionate curiosity.
I am passionate about self-discovery, embodiment, creativity, and conscious living. My goal is to support my clients on their journey back to their truest, most embodied selves. I offer different modalities to explore and help bring awareness to our deepest wants and needs, and to open space for expansion and genuine self-expression. I believe that a truthful, embodied life involves body, mind, and spirit, so I strive to create a safe, welcoming space where every aspect of our complex inner lives can come to light and be witnessed with compassionate curiosity.
(548) 483-6498 View (548) 483-6498
Photo of Mandala Counselling Services, Counsellor in British Columbia
Mandala Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3Z
We all have our unique journeys that is often filled with challenges and obstacles that can be extremely difficult to solely manage effectively. We are all worthy and deserving of healing and inner peace. I create a safe and confidential place where the individuals, couples and family and children experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, loss, communication, sexual abuse, relationship difficulties, drug and alcohol, eating disorder, trauma, separation and divorce, family violence and Indian Residential School effects. You will know what your needs are, what you want and why, make reachable goals and take steps to get them.
We all have our unique journeys that is often filled with challenges and obstacles that can be extremely difficult to solely manage effectively. We are all worthy and deserving of healing and inner peace. I create a safe and confidential place where the individuals, couples and family and children experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, loss, communication, sexual abuse, relationship difficulties, drug and alcohol, eating disorder, trauma, separation and divorce, family violence and Indian Residential School effects. You will know what your needs are, what you want and why, make reachable goals and take steps to get them.
(604) 670-4713 View (604) 670-4713
Photo of Strength Counselling Services, Counsellor in British Columbia
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(548) 490-1498 View (548) 490-1498
Photo of Dakova Health , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in British Columbia
Dakova Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC, FNHA, MCP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Duncan, BC V9L
We all go through different problems, experience different life stressors or trauma, and at times everyone needs someone to just listen. Dakova Health has trained and experienced psychologists and counsellors that specialize in different areas of practice to meet your specific needs.
We all go through different problems, experience different life stressors or trauma, and at times everyone needs someone to just listen. Dakova Health has trained and experienced psychologists and counsellors that specialize in different areas of practice to meet your specific needs.
(226) 458-4403 View (226) 458-4403

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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.