Attachment-based Therapists in Victoria, BC

Photo of Flora Pagan, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Flora Pagan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
5 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
My work is grounded in somatic, attachment-based, and social justice approaches and much of my training and experience has focused on relational trauma.
Many of us struggle with emotional experiences that knock us off our feet. Low mood and chronic stress; difficulty with trust and relationships; and difficulty with overwhelm, focus, or organization are painful and isolating experiences. Unfortunately, we’re surrounded with messaging that if only we tried harder, we could think or act our way out of these experiences - leaving us feeling even more alone or frustrated if things don’t change.
My work is grounded in somatic, attachment-based, and social justice approaches and much of my training and experience has focused on relational trauma.
Many of us struggle with emotional experiences that knock us off our feet. Low mood and chronic stress; difficulty with trust and relationships; and difficulty with overwhelm, focus, or organization are painful and isolating experiences. Unfortunately, we’re surrounded with messaging that if only we tried harder, we could think or act our way out of these experiences - leaving us feeling even more alone or frustrated if things don’t change.
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Photo of Zachary Bruyere, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Zachary Bruyere
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Victoria, BC V8T
Drawing from a diverse toolkit that includes Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based techniques, mindfulness practices, and a trauma-informed lens, I tailor my approach to meet each individual's unique needs.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified NeurOptimal Neurofeedback Trainer, I am dedicated to offering a safe and nurturing space for individuals, aged 13 and above, to explore their experiences and rediscover inner peace, joy, love, and safety. Join me in a collaborative partnership towards healing and growth, where together, we can navigate challenges with empathy, insight, and unwavering support. I have experience in supporting individuals navigating Acute and Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Shame, and Male Masculinity Expectations.
Drawing from a diverse toolkit that includes Somatic Experiencing, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), attachment-based techniques, mindfulness practices, and a trauma-informed lens, I tailor my approach to meet each individual's unique needs.
As a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified NeurOptimal Neurofeedback Trainer, I am dedicated to offering a safe and nurturing space for individuals, aged 13 and above, to explore their experiences and rediscover inner peace, joy, love, and safety. Join me in a collaborative partnership towards healing and growth, where together, we can navigate challenges with empathy, insight, and unwavering support. I have experience in supporting individuals navigating Acute and Complex Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Life Transitions, Relationship Issues, Shame, and Male Masculinity Expectations.
(250) 389-2819 x120 View (250) 389-2819 x120
Photo of Danièle Riendeau, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Danièle Riendeau
Counsellor, MA, RCC
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
The counselling modalities worked with include Internal Family Systems, Somatic Mindfulness and Attachment-based therapy, from a Polyvagal informed lens.
Welcome, Bonjour. I’m Danièle (Elle/She/Her). I am passionate about helping others learn to access and connect with their inner resources, particularly when faced with uncertainty and adversity. In turning towards their felt experiences, I've witnesses patients cultivate a deep trust in their bodies and being. This understanding leads to more spaciousness and connection, in relationships and in life. My areas of focus include anxiety, Complex- PTSD and perinatal mental health.
The counselling modalities worked with include Internal Family Systems, Somatic Mindfulness and Attachment-based therapy, from a Polyvagal informed lens.
Welcome, Bonjour. I’m Danièle (Elle/She/Her). I am passionate about helping others learn to access and connect with their inner resources, particularly when faced with uncertainty and adversity. In turning towards their felt experiences, I've witnesses patients cultivate a deep trust in their bodies and being. This understanding leads to more spaciousness and connection, in relationships and in life. My areas of focus include anxiety, Complex- PTSD and perinatal mental health.
(581) 221-5668 View (581) 221-5668
Photo of Sarah Kathleen Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, CHT
Sarah Kathleen Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, CHT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
i am trained in the use of Clinical Hypnosis, inner-relationship focusing, a type of somatic, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-focused ACT
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed by the state of the world, or find yourself struggling to make sense of your experiences as we navigate the complexities of this time. Perhaps you feel exhausted and experiences things like chronic pain, digestive illness, ongoing fatigue or poor sleep. Maybe you find it difficult to to cope with a lingering sense of dread, feelings of anxiety, or the sharp pain of grief and loss. I know these experiences can make it difficult to stay connected to our values, and to find meaning amidst the constant demands on our attention and time.
i am trained in the use of Clinical Hypnosis, inner-relationship focusing, a type of somatic, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-focused ACT
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed by the state of the world, or find yourself struggling to make sense of your experiences as we navigate the complexities of this time. Perhaps you feel exhausted and experiences things like chronic pain, digestive illness, ongoing fatigue or poor sleep. Maybe you find it difficult to to cope with a lingering sense of dread, feelings of anxiety, or the sharp pain of grief and loss. I know these experiences can make it difficult to stay connected to our values, and to find meaning amidst the constant demands on our attention and time.
(778) 400-2249 View (778) 400-2249
Photo of Carli Kirby, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Carli Kirby
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Victoria, BC V8P
Through a relational, attachment-based somatic approach to counselling, I can help clients develop a stronger sense of self, increase their capacity to tolerate emotions, learn to self-regulate the nervous system, repair relational injuries, get "unstuck", and heal from the effects of trauma in an embodied way.
I am trained in Somatic Attachment Psychotherapy (SAP) and work relationally with folks from all walks of life. Somatic psychotherapy combines psychology, neurophysiology and the body's own wisdom to help process and heal trauma, stress, and early attachment injuries. It can be an effective alternative to traditional talk therapy.
Through a relational, attachment-based somatic approach to counselling, I can help clients develop a stronger sense of self, increase their capacity to tolerate emotions, learn to self-regulate the nervous system, repair relational injuries, get "unstuck", and heal from the effects of trauma in an embodied way.
I am trained in Somatic Attachment Psychotherapy (SAP) and work relationally with folks from all walks of life. Somatic psychotherapy combines psychology, neurophysiology and the body's own wisdom to help process and heal trauma, stress, and early attachment injuries. It can be an effective alternative to traditional talk therapy.
(778) 764-1579 View (778) 764-1579
Photo of Richard Turner, Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Richard Turner
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
My approach is trauma-informed and neurodiverse-affirming, blending body-centered techniques, mindfulness practices, attachment-based therapy, and a strengths-based approach.
Are you navigating a major life transition, grappling with feelings of anxiety or depression, or working through the impacts of trauma? I’m here to provide support for those who feel stuck or uncertain, especially for individuals who struggle to express or share their challenges. I am passionate about creating a safe space for you to explore your needs, uncover your goals, and build a path toward healing and growth.
My approach is trauma-informed and neurodiverse-affirming, blending body-centered techniques, mindfulness practices, attachment-based therapy, and a strengths-based approach.
Are you navigating a major life transition, grappling with feelings of anxiety or depression, or working through the impacts of trauma? I’m here to provide support for those who feel stuck or uncertain, especially for individuals who struggle to express or share their challenges. I am passionate about creating a safe space for you to explore your needs, uncover your goals, and build a path toward healing and growth.
(778) 762-1777 View (778) 762-1777
Photo of Hannah Heide, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Hannah Heide
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Victoria, BC V8T
Drawing from my specialized training in Internal Family Systems, relational and attachment-based therapies, I offer a compassionate and collaborative path to healing.
As a counsellor, I’m drawn to working with adults who are navigating some of life’s toughest challenges such as addiction, trauma, attachment wounds, and relationship struggles. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in painful patterns or disconnected from themselves and others. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, trying to make sense of past experiences, or longing for more meaningful, healthy relationships. You might be carrying a lot of emotion, even a sense of isolation or hopelessness, but I also see the strength it takes to keep going. I believe that deep down, you have the resilience and the courage to heal and grow.
Drawing from my specialized training in Internal Family Systems, relational and attachment-based therapies, I offer a compassionate and collaborative path to healing.
As a counsellor, I’m drawn to working with adults who are navigating some of life’s toughest challenges such as addiction, trauma, attachment wounds, and relationship struggles. Many of the people I work with feel stuck in painful patterns or disconnected from themselves and others. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed, trying to make sense of past experiences, or longing for more meaningful, healthy relationships. You might be carrying a lot of emotion, even a sense of isolation or hopelessness, but I also see the strength it takes to keep going. I believe that deep down, you have the resilience and the courage to heal and grow.
(579) 501-1046 View (579) 501-1046
Photo of Riley McDonald, Counsellor, MC, RCC
Riley McDonald
Counsellor, MC, RCC
7 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
We will work collaboratively from an attachment-based, client-centred orientation.
I hold a masters degree in counselling from the University of Queensland, Australia, and work as a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I offer an integrative approach, meaning we may draw from a variety of evidence-based interventions to support the development of healthy coping mechanisms, increased motivation, personal insight, interpersonal skills, and more.
We will work collaboratively from an attachment-based, client-centred orientation.
I hold a masters degree in counselling from the University of Queensland, Australia, and work as a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I offer an integrative approach, meaning we may draw from a variety of evidence-based interventions to support the development of healthy coping mechanisms, increased motivation, personal insight, interpersonal skills, and more.
(450) 328-5874 View (450) 328-5874
Photo of Derek Wilson, Counsellor, BCYC, MC, RCC, CCC
Derek Wilson
Counsellor, BCYC, MC, RCC, CCC
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
I draw from trauma-informed, attachment-based, and solution-focused approaches to understand and collaboratively support your unique needs, contexts, and goals.
With couples, my integrative approach draws on the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Imago Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy (Part's Work), and Attachment Theory to enrich communication skills and overcome patterns of disconnection. With parents of teens, I am also guided by Mentalization-Based Therapy and Parenting Style Theory.
I draw from trauma-informed, attachment-based, and solution-focused approaches to understand and collaboratively support your unique needs, contexts, and goals.
With couples, my integrative approach draws on the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Imago Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy (Part's Work), and Attachment Theory to enrich communication skills and overcome patterns of disconnection. With parents of teens, I am also guided by Mentalization-Based Therapy and Parenting Style Theory.
(778) 440-1119 View (778) 440-1119
Photo of Megan Stanley, Counsellor, MACP, CCC, RCC
Megan Stanley
Counsellor, MACP, CCC, RCC
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8P
I draw from attachment-based, Polyvagal, cognitive behavioural, internal family systems, & solutions focused theory as well.
Do you wake up in the morning and your anxiety starts to creep in? Do you feel like you have tried everything and you’re losing hope? Are you often triggered emotionally and feel as though you lose control? Do you struggle within your close relationships and wonder “how did I get here?” My approach to therapy is always rooted in compassion and genuine curiosity. I have a mindful and gentle presence, which guides my considerate sensitivity and attunement to each of my clients. Together we can cultivate unique goals and illuminate your wellness path through exploring, connecting, healing, and harnessing strengths.
I draw from attachment-based, Polyvagal, cognitive behavioural, internal family systems, & solutions focused theory as well.
Do you wake up in the morning and your anxiety starts to creep in? Do you feel like you have tried everything and you’re losing hope? Are you often triggered emotionally and feel as though you lose control? Do you struggle within your close relationships and wonder “how did I get here?” My approach to therapy is always rooted in compassion and genuine curiosity. I have a mindful and gentle presence, which guides my considerate sensitivity and attunement to each of my clients. Together we can cultivate unique goals and illuminate your wellness path through exploring, connecting, healing, and harnessing strengths.
(672) 202-1363 View (672) 202-1363
Photo of Laura Chartrand, Counsellor, RTC, BA
Laura Chartrand
Counsellor, RTC, BA
6 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8T
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and attachment-based approaches to support healing and growth.
Are you feeling anxious, stuck, or weighed down by self-doubt? Life transitions, relationship struggles, or low self-esteem may be making it difficult to trust yourself or set boundaries. If you’re craving deeper connections but feel disconnected or unsure where to begin, know that you’re not alone. Life’s demands can leave us feeling overwhelmed, and it’s okay to feel lost. We all carry burdens and beliefs that no longer serve us, and letting go can be tough. Through gentle exploration and self-discovery, you can break free from patterns, rebuild self-trust, find peace, make empowered decisions, and create a fulfilling life.
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and attachment-based approaches to support healing and growth.
Are you feeling anxious, stuck, or weighed down by self-doubt? Life transitions, relationship struggles, or low self-esteem may be making it difficult to trust yourself or set boundaries. If you’re craving deeper connections but feel disconnected or unsure where to begin, know that you’re not alone. Life’s demands can leave us feeling overwhelmed, and it’s okay to feel lost. We all carry burdens and beliefs that no longer serve us, and letting go can be tough. Through gentle exploration and self-discovery, you can break free from patterns, rebuild self-trust, find peace, make empowered decisions, and create a fulfilling life.
(343) 308-2607 View (343) 308-2607
Photo of Lorri Simpson, MSW, RCSW
Lorri Simpson
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities - EMDR, family systems, cognitive-behavioural therapy, Dialetical behaviour therapy, emotionally-focused and attachment-based approaches, parts work, mindfulness-based practices, somatic experiencing and other body-based approached, relationship modalities including emotionally-focused couples work and Gottman methods, and solution-oriented.
I am here to help you to cope with and heal trauma from: accidents, abuse, childhood wounding, relationships, workplace events, loss and illness. Trauma can leave us feeling hopeless and overwhelmed but there is much hope for recovery. Trauma therapy helps to provide relief from your suffering and to restore balance in your life and relationships. Many people are also working to create meaningful change in their relationships. I work with couples to help them to learn to better manage conflict, to achieve greater understanding and stronger intimate connection, both emotional and physical.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities - EMDR, family systems, cognitive-behavioural therapy, Dialetical behaviour therapy, emotionally-focused and attachment-based approaches, parts work, mindfulness-based practices, somatic experiencing and other body-based approached, relationship modalities including emotionally-focused couples work and Gottman methods, and solution-oriented.
I am here to help you to cope with and heal trauma from: accidents, abuse, childhood wounding, relationships, workplace events, loss and illness. Trauma can leave us feeling hopeless and overwhelmed but there is much hope for recovery. Trauma therapy helps to provide relief from your suffering and to restore balance in your life and relationships. Many people are also working to create meaningful change in their relationships. I work with couples to help them to learn to better manage conflict, to achieve greater understanding and stronger intimate connection, both emotional and physical.
(778) 743-0307 View (778) 743-0307
Photo of Adrienne C Wetmore - Adrienne Wetmore Counselling, Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Adrienne Wetmore Counselling
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Victoria, BC V8P
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in the capacity of individuals to learn, change and grow. I am passionate about providing safe and effective therapy, rooted in the desire to understand and create opportunities for you to move closer to the life you want to live in the present moment. I endeavour to create a safe and collaborative space that is non-judgemental, inclusive, and trauma informed. Together we will work to understand your lived experience. We will explore how current and past challenges impact your life, the ways that you have adapted to these challenges and how you would like to be in relationship to yourself, others and the world around you.
I believe in the capacity of individuals to learn, change and grow. I am passionate about providing safe and effective therapy, rooted in the desire to understand and create opportunities for you to move closer to the life you want to live in the present moment. I endeavour to create a safe and collaborative space that is non-judgemental, inclusive, and trauma informed. Together we will work to understand your lived experience. We will explore how current and past challenges impact your life, the ways that you have adapted to these challenges and how you would like to be in relationship to yourself, others and the world around you.
(867) 292-0890 View (867) 292-0890
Photo of Madeleine Hopwood, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Madeleine Hopwood
Counsellor, MA, RCC
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9B
Waitlist for new clients
I offer evidence-based techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and attachment-based therapy.
Currently taking a waitlist for new clients. I'm glad you're here! Seeking counselling is a brave and self-compassionate thing to do. Here's how I can support you: I work with adults (ages 19+) who are dealing with trauma or PTSD, anxiety, grief, and low self-esteem. I also work with clients facing everyday challenges such as stress, life transitions, or social struggles. I help clients to gain coping skills and tools starting from our very first session. My clients find increased stability and balance in their lives, and move forward from past experiences that have been getting in the way of who they truly are.
I offer evidence-based techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and attachment-based therapy.
Currently taking a waitlist for new clients. I'm glad you're here! Seeking counselling is a brave and self-compassionate thing to do. Here's how I can support you: I work with adults (ages 19+) who are dealing with trauma or PTSD, anxiety, grief, and low self-esteem. I also work with clients facing everyday challenges such as stress, life transitions, or social struggles. I help clients to gain coping skills and tools starting from our very first session. My clients find increased stability and balance in their lives, and move forward from past experiences that have been getting in the way of who they truly are.
(204) 817-0049 View (204) 817-0049
Photo of Karen Sungkarisma, Registered Therapeutic Counsellor Candidate, RTC-C
Karen Sungkarisma
Registered Therapeutic Counsellor Candidate, RTC-C
Online Only
I draw from CBT, DBT, polyvagal theory, attachment-based frameworks, existential and somatics.
I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed by their emotions, who carry attachment wounds, and who have experienced the lingering impacts of childhood trauma. You might find yourself reacting in ways you don’t fully understand, struggling to regulate your feelings, or feeling stuck in patterns that don’t reflect who you want to be.
I draw from CBT, DBT, polyvagal theory, attachment-based frameworks, existential and somatics.
I work with individuals who feel overwhelmed by their emotions, who carry attachment wounds, and who have experienced the lingering impacts of childhood trauma. You might find yourself reacting in ways you don’t fully understand, struggling to regulate your feelings, or feeling stuck in patterns that don’t reflect who you want to be.
(506) 499-8177 View (506) 499-8177
Photo of Lindsay Haverslew, Counsellor, MA, RTC, CSAT
Lindsay Haverslew
Counsellor, MA, RTC, CSAT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you trying to figure out how to move forward after having your relationship end or discovering your partner's emotional or physical betrayal? My team at Lost & Found Counselling specializes in betrayal trauma recovery. Betrayal trauma is very real and can occur when the sense of safety and security in a relationship is broken due to cheating, unexpected ending of the partnership, abuse and/or lies. Experiencing this type of trauma can completely shake our beliefs about ourselves, about others, and about the world around us. This can feel lonely, scary, overwhelming and confusing.
Are you trying to figure out how to move forward after having your relationship end or discovering your partner's emotional or physical betrayal? My team at Lost & Found Counselling specializes in betrayal trauma recovery. Betrayal trauma is very real and can occur when the sense of safety and security in a relationship is broken due to cheating, unexpected ending of the partnership, abuse and/or lies. Experiencing this type of trauma can completely shake our beliefs about ourselves, about others, and about the world around us. This can feel lonely, scary, overwhelming and confusing.
(587) 355-5281 View (587) 355-5281
Photo of Dr. Jessica Motherwell McFarlane, PhD, MA
Dr. Jessica Motherwell McFarlane
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with attachment-based, narrative, art and talk therapies.
With over 30 years of experience in counselling and teaching, I am dedicated to addressing gender, youth, women's issues, neurodivergence, and transitions across the lifespan. Life changes can be challenging, but also empowering and growth-oriented. I am passionate about helping individuals, adults, youth, and families find new ways to open up and untie the complex knots in their lives so they can see new solutions and achieve their dreams. I am here to believe in YOU.
I work with attachment-based, narrative, art and talk therapies.
With over 30 years of experience in counselling and teaching, I am dedicated to addressing gender, youth, women's issues, neurodivergence, and transitions across the lifespan. Life changes can be challenging, but also empowering and growth-oriented. I am passionate about helping individuals, adults, youth, and families find new ways to open up and untie the complex knots in their lives so they can see new solutions and achieve their dreams. I am here to believe in YOU.
(548) 918-5549 View (548) 918-5549
Photo of Angela Ivy Leong, Counsellor, BA, MA
Angela Ivy Leong
Counsellor, BA, MA
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
My main therapeutic modality is Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), it is a combination of attachment-based relational work (with you and me as the model), with somatic emotional experiencing.
You are a deep thinker, a seeker of truth, and you yearn for a life filled with meaning and authenticity. Whether you're exploring your sexual identity, navigating complex relationships, or seeking to understand your emotional patterns, you’ve likely felt the tension between your desires and the limitations placed on you by unconscious drives or societal expectations. You’re ready to break free from these constraints and live your fullest, most liberated life.
My main therapeutic modality is Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), it is a combination of attachment-based relational work (with you and me as the model), with somatic emotional experiencing.
You are a deep thinker, a seeker of truth, and you yearn for a life filled with meaning and authenticity. Whether you're exploring your sexual identity, navigating complex relationships, or seeking to understand your emotional patterns, you’ve likely felt the tension between your desires and the limitations placed on you by unconscious drives or societal expectations. You’re ready to break free from these constraints and live your fullest, most liberated life.
(604) 800-9285 View (604) 800-9285
Photo of Jennifer Gardiner - Jennifer Gardiner Counselling Services, Counsellor, MA, RCC
Jennifer Gardiner Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, RCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
My goal as a counsellor is to create a safe and supportive space using a strengths-based approach. Together, we will explore stressors and concerns, set goals, and celebrate accomplishments. I work with youth, adults and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and sexual difficulties, and life transitions. I also am experienced in working with trauma and PTSD, specifically historical childhood sexual abuse and sexualized violence.
My goal as a counsellor is to create a safe and supportive space using a strengths-based approach. Together, we will explore stressors and concerns, set goals, and celebrate accomplishments. I work with youth, adults and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and sexual difficulties, and life transitions. I also am experienced in working with trauma and PTSD, specifically historical childhood sexual abuse and sexualized violence.
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Photo of Jessica McMahon, Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CT
Jessica McMahon
Counsellor, MCP, RCC, CT
Online Only
With this belief in mind, I'll work with you using a trauma-informed, integrative approach that focuses on relational, attachment-based somatic therapy as well as person-centered, narrative and emotionally focused therapy.
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) currently in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I hold a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University, and have recently completed a two-year Somatic Attachment Psychotherapy training. I am grateful to have walked alongside clients for over seven years.
With this belief in mind, I'll work with you using a trauma-informed, integrative approach that focuses on relational, attachment-based somatic therapy as well as person-centered, narrative and emotionally focused therapy.
I'm a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) currently in good standing with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. I hold a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology from Adler University, and have recently completed a two-year Somatic Attachment Psychotherapy training. I am grateful to have walked alongside clients for over seven years.
(604) 330-1227 View (604) 330-1227

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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.