Attachment-based Therapists in Mississauga, ON

Photo of Sashauna Rhoden, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Sashauna Rhoden
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), (RPQ), MA, BSc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N  (Online Only)
I use an internal family system, attachment-based lens, and person-centered approach to guide my work with clients.
Throughout life, we all encounter challenges - some predictable, others unexpected. These events can have both positive and negative effects, and it's not uncommon to require additional support to find the resources, skills and guidance we need to move beyond them. That's where I come in. I believe that everyone has the necessary tools needed to achieve growth and healing, even when it may seem uncomfortable or challenging. I believe that every client is unique, and I always strive to tailor my approach to meet each individual's experience, goals, and needs.
I use an internal family system, attachment-based lens, and person-centered approach to guide my work with clients.
Throughout life, we all encounter challenges - some predictable, others unexpected. These events can have both positive and negative effects, and it's not uncommon to require additional support to find the resources, skills and guidance we need to move beyond them. That's where I come in. I believe that everyone has the necessary tools needed to achieve growth and healing, even when it may seem uncomfortable or challenging. I believe that every client is unique, and I always strive to tailor my approach to meet each individual's experience, goals, and needs.
(289) 272-9147 View (289) 272-9147
Photo of Couples Therapist -Sherriden Brown, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Couples Therapist -Sherriden Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, CCC, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5G
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an attachment-based perspective that draws on the impact of past trauma.
If you find yourself feeling 'he/she doesn't care about me' or 'I do so much but it's never enough', or 'I just can't get it right', then I can help. I work with couples struggling with challenges such as infidelity, emotional distance, not feeling like a priority, difficulties communicating, anger, and intimacy challenges. Perhaps conflict is more frequent and you find yourselves getting caught in the same patterns. Nothing seems to help. Often it can seem hopeless, yet it is possible to regain the love and trust you once shared.
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an attachment-based perspective that draws on the impact of past trauma.
If you find yourself feeling 'he/she doesn't care about me' or 'I do so much but it's never enough', or 'I just can't get it right', then I can help. I work with couples struggling with challenges such as infidelity, emotional distance, not feeling like a priority, difficulties communicating, anger, and intimacy challenges. Perhaps conflict is more frequent and you find yourselves getting caught in the same patterns. Nothing seems to help. Often it can seem hopeless, yet it is possible to regain the love and trust you once shared.
(289) 276-7423 View (289) 276-7423
Photo of Seth Chisholm, Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Seth Chisholm
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5M  (Online Only)
Oh hi. You know, I can imagine that he steps leading you here today involved some tough times. I know how difficult it is finding help, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed, emotional, scared. Maybe things are going pretty well and you’re looking to grow. Either way, I think we all deserve every chance to improve ourselves, find ourselves in the one life we've been given here. That’s what I’m trying to do too. The only way I know how. Through listening, awareness, connection, and growth. I do this with folks who might need someone to help them navigate anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, and trauma.
Oh hi. You know, I can imagine that he steps leading you here today involved some tough times. I know how difficult it is finding help, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed, emotional, scared. Maybe things are going pretty well and you’re looking to grow. Either way, I think we all deserve every chance to improve ourselves, find ourselves in the one life we've been given here. That’s what I’m trying to do too. The only way I know how. Through listening, awareness, connection, and growth. I do this with folks who might need someone to help them navigate anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, and trauma.
(647) 370-7450 View (647) 370-7450
Photo of Sandra Wilde, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Sandra Wilde
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5C  (Online Only)
When life gets complicated and overwhelming, the therapeutic process can help to get you back on track. Whether you are trying to cope with difficult relationships or you are struggling with anxiety, depression, isolation and more, you don't have to deal with these challenges on your own. I offer a trusting and supportive place where you can talk openly about your concerns, gain further understanding and insight, and find new ways of managing your circumstances more effectively. Through this process you will feel better about yourself and achieve a greater sense of joy and well being.
When life gets complicated and overwhelming, the therapeutic process can help to get you back on track. Whether you are trying to cope with difficult relationships or you are struggling with anxiety, depression, isolation and more, you don't have to deal with these challenges on your own. I offer a trusting and supportive place where you can talk openly about your concerns, gain further understanding and insight, and find new ways of managing your circumstances more effectively. Through this process you will feel better about yourself and achieve a greater sense of joy and well being.
(647) 952-1558 View (647) 952-1558
Photo of Lauren Atkinson, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Lauren Atkinson
Registered Psychotherapist, MAMFT, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5B  (Online Only)
I work mainly from an Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach, incorporating Attachment-Based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Collaborative Therapy and Solution-Oriented perspectives.
I strive to ensure that the space I create is welcoming, non-judgemental, safe, and supportive.  I am passionate about people, the stories they tell, and the resiliency they hold. I work with clients with various mental health concerns, identity exploration, trauma processing, and relationship conflict.
I work mainly from an Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach, incorporating Attachment-Based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Collaborative Therapy and Solution-Oriented perspectives.
I strive to ensure that the space I create is welcoming, non-judgemental, safe, and supportive.  I am passionate about people, the stories they tell, and the resiliency they hold. I work with clients with various mental health concerns, identity exploration, trauma processing, and relationship conflict.
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Photo of Aseel Al-Saheb, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Aseel Al-Saheb
Registered Psychotherapist, CCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N  (Online Only)
I utilize techniques from various evidence-based therapies, CBT, DBT, EFT, IFS, Person-Centred, Attachment-Based Therapy, Psychodynamic, CPT, and Gottman Method.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Canadian Certified Counsellor. I believe each person has their own distinct life experiences and qualities that call for a tailored approach to meet their individual needs. Each obstacle presents a chance for personal growth, and with guidance, you can develop greater self-awareness. With that, we work collaboratively to explore the Past and the Present to Unravel themes and patterns within your life that could operate as obstacles to help you reach your goals.
I utilize techniques from various evidence-based therapies, CBT, DBT, EFT, IFS, Person-Centred, Attachment-Based Therapy, Psychodynamic, CPT, and Gottman Method.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Canadian Certified Counsellor. I believe each person has their own distinct life experiences and qualities that call for a tailored approach to meet their individual needs. Each obstacle presents a chance for personal growth, and with guidance, you can develop greater self-awareness. With that, we work collaboratively to explore the Past and the Present to Unravel themes and patterns within your life that could operate as obstacles to help you reach your goals.
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Photo of Stefanie Mathes, Psychological Associate in Mississauga, ON
Stefanie Mathes
Psychological Associate, MA, PsychAc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I am registered with the College of Psychologists (CPO) and all of my services include clinical supervision with CPO registered Psychologists, which inform my continued professional development. Research in the area of 'common factors' emphasizes the client-therapist relationship and factors that are unique to you and your life circumstances as important predictors for therapy success, and it informs my approach to support you in creating positive change. I meet clients non-judgmentally, and my approach is uniquely dynamic, collaborative, and solution-focused, with therapeutic presence and authenticity.
I am registered with the College of Psychologists (CPO) and all of my services include clinical supervision with CPO registered Psychologists, which inform my continued professional development. Research in the area of 'common factors' emphasizes the client-therapist relationship and factors that are unique to you and your life circumstances as important predictors for therapy success, and it informs my approach to support you in creating positive change. I meet clients non-judgmentally, and my approach is uniquely dynamic, collaborative, and solution-focused, with therapeutic presence and authenticity.
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Photo of Andrea Filice - Montague, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Andrea Filice - Montague
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I take an integrative approach utilizing various modalities such as, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR).
I believe everyone deserves to live a happy, healthy and meaningful life. Life can be challenging and sometimes we need a little help along the way. A strong therapeutic relationship is fundamental for growth and positive change; I am committed to working patiently with each individual to establish trust and create a safe space, where they can begin their journey to healing and an improved quality of life.
I take an integrative approach utilizing various modalities such as, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR).
I believe everyone deserves to live a happy, healthy and meaningful life. Life can be challenging and sometimes we need a little help along the way. A strong therapeutic relationship is fundamental for growth and positive change; I am committed to working patiently with each individual to establish trust and create a safe space, where they can begin their journey to healing and an improved quality of life.
(289) 204-6248 View (289) 204-6248
Photo of Zainab Kazi, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Zainab Kazi
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4T  (Online Only)
My commitment lies in providing trauma-informed, collaborative, and non-judgmental therapy, through the lens of attachment-based principles.
My passion lies in assisting individuals in overcoming the obstacles that impede their daily functioning and overall well-being, preventing them from reaching their full potential. I employ a collaborative therapeutic approach that actively involves both individuals and their families, fostering a sense of safety and connection within the family unit. Together, we embark on a journey towards personal growth and improved daily functioning, enabling individuals to become their best selves.
My commitment lies in providing trauma-informed, collaborative, and non-judgmental therapy, through the lens of attachment-based principles.
My passion lies in assisting individuals in overcoming the obstacles that impede their daily functioning and overall well-being, preventing them from reaching their full potential. I employ a collaborative therapeutic approach that actively involves both individuals and their families, fostering a sense of safety and connection within the family unit. Together, we embark on a journey towards personal growth and improved daily functioning, enabling individuals to become their best selves.
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Photo of Caroline Legault, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Caroline Legault
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N
I use an integrated practice (from IFS, Narrative, Play/Art-based, EFFT, Mindfulness, DDP and Theraplay) grounded in an attachment-based framework.
Growing up is not always easy and it can often feel overwhelming. One of the hardest parts of being a parent is seeing your child struggle. I can help you sail through the storm. I am a bilingual Registered Social Worker experienced in working with children, adolescents and families. Whether it is a problem with anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, parenting challenges, traumatic life events, issues with family transitions, adjustment to school, or peer relationships, you don't have to do it alone.
I use an integrated practice (from IFS, Narrative, Play/Art-based, EFFT, Mindfulness, DDP and Theraplay) grounded in an attachment-based framework.
Growing up is not always easy and it can often feel overwhelming. One of the hardest parts of being a parent is seeing your child struggle. I can help you sail through the storm. I am a bilingual Registered Social Worker experienced in working with children, adolescents and families. Whether it is a problem with anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, parenting challenges, traumatic life events, issues with family transitions, adjustment to school, or peer relationships, you don't have to do it alone.
(647) 492-9621 View (647) 492-9621
Photo of Lynda Keung, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Lynda Keung
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MHRM, CHRL
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W  (Online Only)
I use various types of therapy including psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), attachment-based therapy, existential therapy, emotion-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and person-centred therapy.
Hi there, I am pleased that we have crossed paths. Whether you have stopped by because you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work-related stress, negative habits, or any other feelings or behaviours that are impacting your mental health and quality of life, my hope is that I can help you navigate through life’s challenges and to help you reach your goals. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, 2SLGBTQ+, and BIPOC safe space where people can be comfortable being their authentic selves as they share their stories.
I use various types of therapy including psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), attachment-based therapy, existential therapy, emotion-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and person-centred therapy.
Hi there, I am pleased that we have crossed paths. Whether you have stopped by because you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, work-related stress, negative habits, or any other feelings or behaviours that are impacting your mental health and quality of life, my hope is that I can help you navigate through life’s challenges and to help you reach your goals. I provide a warm, non-judgmental, 2SLGBTQ+, and BIPOC safe space where people can be comfortable being their authentic selves as they share their stories.
(289) 799-3323 View (289) 799-3323
Photo of Kavita Patel, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Kavita Patel
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, OASW, OCSWSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W  (Online Only)
I draw on inspiration from a variety of modalities, theories and perspectives from Attachment-Based Theory, Emotional Focused Therapy (Couples), Systemic Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative and Mindfulness Based techniques.
Feeling alone in your relationship? Experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety and always feeling overwhelmed? Know that you are not alone. If your goal is to start feeling like an active participant and being an expert in your own life and if you are seeking for a safe space to talk and someone to truly listen to you, your journey towards this goal can begin now.
I draw on inspiration from a variety of modalities, theories and perspectives from Attachment-Based Theory, Emotional Focused Therapy (Couples), Systemic Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative and Mindfulness Based techniques.
Feeling alone in your relationship? Experiencing high levels of stress and anxiety and always feeling overwhelmed? Know that you are not alone. If your goal is to start feeling like an active participant and being an expert in your own life and if you are seeking for a safe space to talk and someone to truly listen to you, your journey towards this goal can begin now.
(647) 957-8017 View (647) 957-8017
Photo of Maryam Fazl, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Maryam Fazl
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5L
I provide psychotherapy to clients struggling with challenging life experiences. It can be difficult to feel understood or to cope when experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict or low self-confidence. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, and I can provide a safe space where together we focus on skills that foster resiliency in the face of inevitable life challenges. I have more than a decade of experience working with adults (18+) dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment issues, grief, shame and guilt, interpersonal conflict, and perinatal concerns, etc.
I provide psychotherapy to clients struggling with challenging life experiences. It can be difficult to feel understood or to cope when experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, interpersonal conflict or low self-confidence. It takes courage to reach out and ask for help, and I can provide a safe space where together we focus on skills that foster resiliency in the face of inevitable life challenges. I have more than a decade of experience working with adults (18+) dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, adjustment issues, grief, shame and guilt, interpersonal conflict, and perinatal concerns, etc.
(437) 800-2849 View (437) 800-2849
Photo of Zhivka Stefanova, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Zhivka Stefanova
Registered Social Worker, BA Psyc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Y
Are you struggling in your relationships with others? Relationships are complex and could be complicated. Yet, as human beings, we need others, and when there are challenges in our relationships we suffer and struggle. We all need to be loved and cared for, yet we often push away the very people we want to be close to. Rejection or the fear of it, could be so painful and makes us withdraw, isolate or hurt back. As a result, we may feel inadequate, unlovable, unworthy, and hopeless. Deep down, we want to feel connected, and we want to feel good about ourselves, and at peace.
Are you struggling in your relationships with others? Relationships are complex and could be complicated. Yet, as human beings, we need others, and when there are challenges in our relationships we suffer and struggle. We all need to be loved and cared for, yet we often push away the very people we want to be close to. Rejection or the fear of it, could be so painful and makes us withdraw, isolate or hurt back. As a result, we may feel inadequate, unlovable, unworthy, and hopeless. Deep down, we want to feel connected, and we want to feel good about ourselves, and at peace.
(647) 496-0382 View (647) 496-0382
Photo of Jeannie Bishop, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Jeannie Bishop
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW , CSAT
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5G
Working from a trauma-informed, attachment-based lens, I utilize an integrative approach in my practice and draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, such as, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Imago Relationship Therapy, Talk Therapy, and Narrative Therapy combined with a Strength Based Approach.
Welcome to my site. I hope you find this information helpful and informative. My passion is to assist and empower others on their journey of self-discovery. I am a Masters of Social Work (MSW) and a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. My approach is one of transformation through non-judgment, listening, support, empathy, and insight. I operate from a Trauma-Informed Approach (TIA) in acknowledging the sensitive concerns that exist within the clients that I work with.
Working from a trauma-informed, attachment-based lens, I utilize an integrative approach in my practice and draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, such as, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Imago Relationship Therapy, Talk Therapy, and Narrative Therapy combined with a Strength Based Approach.
Welcome to my site. I hope you find this information helpful and informative. My passion is to assist and empower others on their journey of self-discovery. I am a Masters of Social Work (MSW) and a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. My approach is one of transformation through non-judgment, listening, support, empathy, and insight. I operate from a Trauma-Informed Approach (TIA) in acknowledging the sensitive concerns that exist within the clients that I work with.
(249) 202-2298 View (249) 202-2298
Photo of Andriana Teslyuk, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Andriana Teslyuk
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, CCC, RN, BScN, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4X
I use a holistic, client-centred lens, attachment-based theory and Somatic Experiencing modalities.
I work with Adolescent, Adult and Senior clients from all walks of life. Difficult and challenging life experiences can have an impact on mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. I have over 12 years of experience working in the medical healthcare field as a Registered Nurse. This experience gifted me with an opportunity to continue to support clients outside of the hospital setting in areas of: end-of-life (palliative care), grief and loss, chronic illness and pain, psychological trauma related to conflicts of war and crisis, caregiver stress and burnout support.
I use a holistic, client-centred lens, attachment-based theory and Somatic Experiencing modalities.
I work with Adolescent, Adult and Senior clients from all walks of life. Difficult and challenging life experiences can have an impact on mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. I have over 12 years of experience working in the medical healthcare field as a Registered Nurse. This experience gifted me with an opportunity to continue to support clients outside of the hospital setting in areas of: end-of-life (palliative care), grief and loss, chronic illness and pain, psychological trauma related to conflicts of war and crisis, caregiver stress and burnout support.
(647) 277-4637 View (647) 277-4637
Photo of Catherine Morissette, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Catherine Morissette
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BASc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N  (Online Only)
Do you want to explore who you really are and learn about self-compassion? Are you experiencing the loss of a loved one or a furry family member? Are you experiencing low moods or worrisome thoughts? Grief, depression, self-love, compassion, anxiety, stress management, and relationships are areas I work with clients. I welcome clients of all ages and backgrounds to work together to improve their health and wellness. I practice online or by phone to create and maintain a workspace that is accessible throughout Ontario. I am not afraid of trauma or strong emotions. My goal is to create a safe space for you to feel or process.
Do you want to explore who you really are and learn about self-compassion? Are you experiencing the loss of a loved one or a furry family member? Are you experiencing low moods or worrisome thoughts? Grief, depression, self-love, compassion, anxiety, stress management, and relationships are areas I work with clients. I welcome clients of all ages and backgrounds to work together to improve their health and wellness. I practice online or by phone to create and maintain a workspace that is accessible throughout Ontario. I am not afraid of trauma or strong emotions. My goal is to create a safe space for you to feel or process.
(289) 273-9406 View (289) 273-9406
Photo of Nakasha Ogbonna, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Nakasha Ogbonna
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5R
I'm a registered social worker specializing in mental health. Before entering private practice, I served as the University of Calgary’s Mental Health Consultant where I was the primary on-campus therapeutic support for staff, faculty and post doctorates. I now work in private practice supporting individuals, couples, families, and groups. I also have specialized training and experience working with first responders and their families in dealing with operational stress injuries. My breadth of experience includes work with patients accessing community public health as well as school aged youth in primary and secondary school divisions
I'm a registered social worker specializing in mental health. Before entering private practice, I served as the University of Calgary’s Mental Health Consultant where I was the primary on-campus therapeutic support for staff, faculty and post doctorates. I now work in private practice supporting individuals, couples, families, and groups. I also have specialized training and experience working with first responders and their families in dealing with operational stress injuries. My breadth of experience includes work with patients accessing community public health as well as school aged youth in primary and secondary school divisions
(587) 740-1026 View (587) 740-1026
Photo of Sonia Panchyshyn, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Sonia Panchyshyn
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z  (Online Only)
Are you currently experiencing a crisis? Are you and your partner experiencing relationship difficulties or struggling to recover from an affair? Perhaps you suffer from anxiety, depression, grief/loss or anger management issues. If so, I am here to help you. I offer psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families in a confidential, supportive, caring, compassionate and non-judgmental environment. My clients have achieved success through psychotherapy sessions and have been able to heal or resolve their issues while achieving happier and more fulfilling lives. I believe in striving for excellence in the work that I do. Your success is my success.
Are you currently experiencing a crisis? Are you and your partner experiencing relationship difficulties or struggling to recover from an affair? Perhaps you suffer from anxiety, depression, grief/loss or anger management issues. If so, I am here to help you. I offer psychotherapy for individuals, couples and families in a confidential, supportive, caring, compassionate and non-judgmental environment. My clients have achieved success through psychotherapy sessions and have been able to heal or resolve their issues while achieving happier and more fulfilling lives. I believe in striving for excellence in the work that I do. Your success is my success.
(844) 331-0304 View (844) 331-0304
Photo of Brenda Chan, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Brenda Chan
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Life is not always easy. All of us at times experience emotional difficulty when things get rough. You don't have to face them alone. I am here to offer you a safe, respectful and non-judgmental place to explore what is most troubling you, such as: anxiety, depression, grief, or other symptoms that constrict your life. My goal is to help you become aware of new perspectives into the experiences that confuse or trouble you, and help you develop the strength to change and have a more control in your life.
Life is not always easy. All of us at times experience emotional difficulty when things get rough. You don't have to face them alone. I am here to offer you a safe, respectful and non-judgmental place to explore what is most troubling you, such as: anxiety, depression, grief, or other symptoms that constrict your life. My goal is to help you become aware of new perspectives into the experiences that confuse or trouble you, and help you develop the strength to change and have a more control in your life.
(289) 724-5671 View (289) 724-5671

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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.