Attachment-based Therapists in Chinatown, Washington, DC

Photo of Charlene Fletcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Charlene Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20004  (Online Only)
Charlene Fletcher earned her Masters of Arts in Social Work, from Howard University in 2010. She has over 15 years of experience providing counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. Charlene focuses on providing individualized treatment to ensure that she is able to meet their needs to improve their mental health and overall quality of their lives. She provides an environment where clients can feel safe and supported while collaboratively working towards their healing journey.
Charlene Fletcher earned her Masters of Arts in Social Work, from Howard University in 2010. She has over 15 years of experience providing counseling services to individuals, couples, and families. Charlene focuses on providing individualized treatment to ensure that she is able to meet their needs to improve their mental health and overall quality of their lives. She provides an environment where clients can feel safe and supported while collaboratively working towards their healing journey.
(844) 748-2427 View (844) 748-2427
Photo of Mitra Shahryary, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Mitra Shahryary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20004  (Online Only)
I am licensed clinical social worker (LCSW, LICSW), licensed in Virginia, District of Columbia and Colorado with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
I am licensed clinical social worker (LCSW, LICSW), licensed in Virginia, District of Columbia and Colorado with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment.
(877) 372-1332 View (877) 372-1332
Photo of Magnolia Mental Health DC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Magnolia Mental Health DC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20002
Have you felt your light dimming over the past few years? Felt disconnected from yourself and others? It’s hard to find people you can talk to about these things. It’s been harder to find people who understand your unique challenges? MMHDC’s therapists specialize in treating issues unique to minority communities including black women and members of the LBGTQIA+ community. We specialize in you! Are you ready to bloom and to grow? Learn more by contacting us at www.magnoliamhealth.com to set up an appointment.
Have you felt your light dimming over the past few years? Felt disconnected from yourself and others? It’s hard to find people you can talk to about these things. It’s been harder to find people who understand your unique challenges? MMHDC’s therapists specialize in treating issues unique to minority communities including black women and members of the LBGTQIA+ community. We specialize in you! Are you ready to bloom and to grow? Learn more by contacting us at www.magnoliamhealth.com to set up an appointment.
(877) 696-1642 View (877) 696-1642
Photo of Sarah Gibbons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Sarah Gibbons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida, Maryland, Washington D.C., and California, as well as a dedicated Reiki healer. I'm currently offering my services exclusively through telehealth. My approach is rooted in empathy and a strong commitment to aiding others, driven by an unyielding passion for personal development. Specializing in supporting young adult women, I focus on various challenges including codependency, anxiety, ADHD, highly sensitive people, depression, panic attacks, life transitions, relationship strains, college planning, self-esteem, family of origin, and attachment.
Waitlist for new clients! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Florida, Maryland, Washington D.C., and California, as well as a dedicated Reiki healer. I'm currently offering my services exclusively through telehealth. My approach is rooted in empathy and a strong commitment to aiding others, driven by an unyielding passion for personal development. Specializing in supporting young adult women, I focus on various challenges including codependency, anxiety, ADHD, highly sensitive people, depression, panic attacks, life transitions, relationship strains, college planning, self-esteem, family of origin, and attachment.
(202) 816-4408 View (202) 816-4408
Photo of Laura Niver, Psychologist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Laura Niver
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20004
We all have unique stories. Our pasts form us into who we are today, and oftentimes what once worked for us, no longer does. Therapy can help us gain the insight to understand our stories, but more importantly, help us to choose new ways of living and engaging with ourselves, others, and the world. In the context of a supportive relationship, we will work together to move towards a life that is more meaningful, satisfying, and free.
We all have unique stories. Our pasts form us into who we are today, and oftentimes what once worked for us, no longer does. Therapy can help us gain the insight to understand our stories, but more importantly, help us to choose new ways of living and engaging with ourselves, others, and the world. In the context of a supportive relationship, we will work together to move towards a life that is more meaningful, satisfying, and free.
(202) 217-4924 View (202) 217-4924
Photo of Abir Aldhalimi, Psychologist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Abir Aldhalimi
Psychologist, PhD , MA
Verified Verified
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20002
Hi there, I'm currently accepting new clients in my practice. I'm keen on ensuring you receive attentive care. I support individuals in overcoming stress, anxiety, and burnout, including for those in high-pressure careers. My commitment lies in providing attentive care and fostering a psychotherapy experience tailored to your unique needs so you actualize your full potential. Together, we'll explore and implement effective tools to facilitate growth, utilizing a collaborative approach. I understand the importance of accessibility and offer a complimentary telephone consultation.
Hi there, I'm currently accepting new clients in my practice. I'm keen on ensuring you receive attentive care. I support individuals in overcoming stress, anxiety, and burnout, including for those in high-pressure careers. My commitment lies in providing attentive care and fostering a psychotherapy experience tailored to your unique needs so you actualize your full potential. Together, we'll explore and implement effective tools to facilitate growth, utilizing a collaborative approach. I understand the importance of accessibility and offer a complimentary telephone consultation.
(202) 931-7650 View (202) 931-7650
Photo of Allyson Watson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Allyson Watson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT, MPM
Verified Verified
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Life is too short and you only have one life to live!! No matter what life has thrown at you, you deserve a life full of peace, balance, abundance and joy; where you find excitement in waking up to new possibilities. I am here to help you map it out, so let’s talk about it! Therapy is interactional and not one-sided; you are the expert of your life, so let me know how I can help. We can work on achieving goals, dreams, aspirations, or solutions to aversive life situations and try to find ways to enjoy the process. Who knows, you may discover new potentials and possibilities within yourself.
Life is too short and you only have one life to live!! No matter what life has thrown at you, you deserve a life full of peace, balance, abundance and joy; where you find excitement in waking up to new possibilities. I am here to help you map it out, so let’s talk about it! Therapy is interactional and not one-sided; you are the expert of your life, so let me know how I can help. We can work on achieving goals, dreams, aspirations, or solutions to aversive life situations and try to find ways to enjoy the process. Who knows, you may discover new potentials and possibilities within yourself.
(301) 215-3247 View (301) 215-3247
Photo of Emily Unrue Gupta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Emily Unrue Gupta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief and are unsure where to turn next? Are you experiencing difficulty with a life transition and the stress that accompanies change? The work we do together can help you achieve clarity, improve mental well-being, and grow and flourish in the next chapter of your life. Taking that next step can be a scary process, and I am here to provide safe, supportive, and compassionate services.
Are you struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief and are unsure where to turn next? Are you experiencing difficulty with a life transition and the stress that accompanies change? The work we do together can help you achieve clarity, improve mental well-being, and grow and flourish in the next chapter of your life. Taking that next step can be a scary process, and I am here to provide safe, supportive, and compassionate services.
(202) 816-7328 View (202) 816-7328
Photo of Shaysa Esther Villa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Shaysa Esther Villa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20004
As a modern therapist, I provide culturally sensitive and thoughtful therapy to help individuals and couples. I understand how hard it can be to find a therapist that seems relatable or trustworthy. I work particularly well with individuals navigating trauma, relationships, and identity looking for a therapist that "gets it". This may be an overwhelming point in your life, but pursuing psychotherapy can be one of the most transformative experiences you can take to heal & grow.
As a modern therapist, I provide culturally sensitive and thoughtful therapy to help individuals and couples. I understand how hard it can be to find a therapist that seems relatable or trustworthy. I work particularly well with individuals navigating trauma, relationships, and identity looking for a therapist that "gets it". This may be an overwhelming point in your life, but pursuing psychotherapy can be one of the most transformative experiences you can take to heal & grow.
(312) 667-3884 View (312) 667-3884
Photo of Mary Cuevas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Mary Cuevas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20005  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with unresolved emotions that are too difficult to confront alone and want to develop the tools for a happy life? I am committed to helping and guiding you on your journey of healing and finding peace of mind. Utilizing different modalities of therapy and evidenced-based treatment methods, we will focus on developing insight and awareness, identifying and honing strengths, removing psychological obstacles, and building the skills needed to reach your goals. I strive to help my clients to live courageously, explore outside of their comfort zone, develop a growth mindset, and see challenges as opportunities.
Are you struggling with unresolved emotions that are too difficult to confront alone and want to develop the tools for a happy life? I am committed to helping and guiding you on your journey of healing and finding peace of mind. Utilizing different modalities of therapy and evidenced-based treatment methods, we will focus on developing insight and awareness, identifying and honing strengths, removing psychological obstacles, and building the skills needed to reach your goals. I strive to help my clients to live courageously, explore outside of their comfort zone, develop a growth mindset, and see challenges as opportunities.
(571) 308-3646 View (571) 308-3646
Photo of Sandhya Sharma, Counselor in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Sandhya Sharma
Counselor, LPC, CAC II, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20004
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
(703) 828-0647 View (703) 828-0647
Photo of Silver Lake Psychology--Washington DC location, Psychologist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Silver Lake Psychology--Washington DC location
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20405
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience. We are a collective of therapists with a wide range of specialties. Our intake professionals will help connect you with the right therapist for your needs. We make appointments easy, offering evenings and weekends and flexibility for creative professionals who can't make the same time each week.
(202) 991-3191 View (202) 991-3191
Photo of Alex Swales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Alex Swales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chinatown, Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Life can be messy, chaotic, and complicated; therapy reminds me of spring cleaning. Similar to spring cleaning, therapy can be slow, overwhelming, & messy. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is my goal to support clients to embrace all the parts of them in healing from trauma. Together, we will work to unpack and find meaning, connection, understanding, and even humor. I work with individuals that have experienced sexual trauma, relational trauma, eating disorders, and struggle with the impacts of trauma. I deeply enjoy working with individuals that want to deepen their connection to self and community.
Life can be messy, chaotic, and complicated; therapy reminds me of spring cleaning. Similar to spring cleaning, therapy can be slow, overwhelming, & messy. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is my goal to support clients to embrace all the parts of them in healing from trauma. Together, we will work to unpack and find meaning, connection, understanding, and even humor. I work with individuals that have experienced sexual trauma, relational trauma, eating disorders, and struggle with the impacts of trauma. I deeply enjoy working with individuals that want to deepen their connection to self and community.
(855) 922-4373 View (855) 922-4373

Online Therapists

Photo of Patricia Parra Moreno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Patricia Parra Moreno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy includes EMDR processing, attachment-based resourcing and CBT techniques.
Do you ever feel like an imposter or struggle with feelings of inadequacy? Perhaps you lean towards perfectionism and feel like nothing you ever do is quite enough. Is it sometimes hard for you to set boundaries or take care of your needs? Many people with childhood trauma grapple with these difficulties and more. It may be hard for you to feel connected with others or to shake off feelings of loneliness. Sometimes you might even feel like it's hard to enjoy the good things in your life.
My approach to therapy includes EMDR processing, attachment-based resourcing and CBT techniques.
Do you ever feel like an imposter or struggle with feelings of inadequacy? Perhaps you lean towards perfectionism and feel like nothing you ever do is quite enough. Is it sometimes hard for you to set boundaries or take care of your needs? Many people with childhood trauma grapple with these difficulties and more. It may be hard for you to feel connected with others or to shake off feelings of loneliness. Sometimes you might even feel like it's hard to enjoy the good things in your life.
View
Photo of Ana Cristina Ponce @ Modern Balance Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Ana Cristina Ponce @ Modern Balance Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I offer a multicultural, relational, trauma-informed, and attachment-based approach to therapy.
Modern Balance Counseling is a bilingual virtual therapy practice for folks living in Texas, Michigan, DC, Virginia, and Florida. If you are navigating changes in your relationship, if you are navigating parenthood (in the teen years or the early years), if you are ready to own the healing of your inner child, if you are ready to discover more about yourself and heal from the scripts of the past... then this is the space for you! The name of the practice evokes its "why" as well as what I hope will be its offering for all that work with me. More than work-life balance, something relevant and practical... Modern Balance.
I offer a multicultural, relational, trauma-informed, and attachment-based approach to therapy.
Modern Balance Counseling is a bilingual virtual therapy practice for folks living in Texas, Michigan, DC, Virginia, and Florida. If you are navigating changes in your relationship, if you are navigating parenthood (in the teen years or the early years), if you are ready to own the healing of your inner child, if you are ready to discover more about yourself and heal from the scripts of the past... then this is the space for you! The name of the practice evokes its "why" as well as what I hope will be its offering for all that work with me. More than work-life balance, something relevant and practical... Modern Balance.
View
Photo of Paul M Higgins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Paul M Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, LMSW, JD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My therapeutic approaches include psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), strengths-based, client-centered, humanistic, mindfulness, and attachment-based models.
I am a psychotherapist in a private practice in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC, where I provide individual, couples, and group therapy. I work with adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulties coping with life stressors, emotion regulation, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties. I bring a warm, supportive, non-judgmental, and collaborative style to therapy.
My therapeutic approaches include psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), strengths-based, client-centered, humanistic, mindfulness, and attachment-based models.
I am a psychotherapist in a private practice in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC, where I provide individual, couples, and group therapy. I work with adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, difficulties coping with life stressors, emotion regulation, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties. I bring a warm, supportive, non-judgmental, and collaborative style to therapy.
(202) 804-8096 View (202) 804-8096
Photo of Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Mali G Parke - Life Coachmediator
Coach, CPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I support what wants to emerge with approaches from Systemic Family Constellations, Attachment-Based and Trauma-Informed, Brain-Informed Empathic Coaching & Training, Body-Based Somatic and Polyvagal Applications, Collaborative and Change-Making Communication Skills, Restorative Practices, Positive Discipline, Systemic Transformative Justice and Change.
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
I support what wants to emerge with approaches from Systemic Family Constellations, Attachment-Based and Trauma-Informed, Brain-Informed Empathic Coaching & Training, Body-Based Somatic and Polyvagal Applications, Collaborative and Change-Making Communication Skills, Restorative Practices, Positive Discipline, Systemic Transformative Justice and Change.
Are you longing for vitality, a sense of choice or self-love/confidence in your life? Are you looking for authenticity, courageous conversations, resonance or deep trust repair in your relationship/s? Are you hoping to find how to live a meaningful and impactful life? I support authentic, compassionate and empowered relating to yourself and others with courageous journeying opening your full expression, connection and power for change. My clients are individuals, partners, co-parents, educators, caregivers or leaders, teams or groups who want to achieve greater trust, connection, resonance, collaboration and systemic resilience.
(202) 760-2780 View (202) 760-2780
Photo of Melanie Kolkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Melanie Kolkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Therapies Employed: Attachment-Based, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Culturally Sensitive, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gender Affirming Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, Multicultural, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused Therapy.
Mental health is the core of wellness. If that isn’t cultivated, everything else in life becomes ten times harder. I have been a therapist since 2018 and have broad experience in many areas. I possess excellent communication and rapport-building skills, as well as a strong background in trauma-informed clinical care, research, and advocacy. The most rewarding thing about being a therapist is the connection I make with clients and the trust they put in me. It is an experience I am both deeply humbled by and truly grateful for.
Therapies Employed: Attachment-Based, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Culturally Sensitive, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gender Affirming Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, Multicultural, Person-Centered, Solution-Focused Therapy.
Mental health is the core of wellness. If that isn’t cultivated, everything else in life becomes ten times harder. I have been a therapist since 2018 and have broad experience in many areas. I possess excellent communication and rapport-building skills, as well as a strong background in trauma-informed clinical care, research, and advocacy. The most rewarding thing about being a therapist is the connection I make with clients and the trust they put in me. It is an experience I am both deeply humbled by and truly grateful for.
(888) 870-6487 View (888) 870-6487
Photo of Adi Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Adi Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients! I am a therapist that believes in meeting clients where they are and building sessions based on what the Client feels interested in focusing on. If you’re struggling with understanding how your past has impacted your current thoughts and actions, navigating through oppressive systems while maintaining pride in your identities, or interrupting unwanted thoughts and patterns- I can support you in building a life where you feel equipped to face the unexpected and feel present in your joyous moments. We will work together to find your inner strengths and support system to get you to your best life.
I am accepting new clients! I am a therapist that believes in meeting clients where they are and building sessions based on what the Client feels interested in focusing on. If you’re struggling with understanding how your past has impacted your current thoughts and actions, navigating through oppressive systems while maintaining pride in your identities, or interrupting unwanted thoughts and patterns- I can support you in building a life where you feel equipped to face the unexpected and feel present in your joyous moments. We will work together to find your inner strengths and support system to get you to your best life.
(202) 937-2698 View (202) 937-2698
Photo of Dr. Aliza Goldberg, Psychological Associate in Chinatown, Washington, DC
Dr. Aliza Goldberg
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037  (Online Only)
My approach is active, identity-affirming, trauma-informed, and attachment-based.
Thanks for taking a look at my profile! I provide individual and couples therapy to adults and enjoy helping clients work through anxiety, trauma, attachment and relationship challenges, life transitions, and identity-related concerns. As your therapist, I will strive to understand your challenges and symptoms in the context of your personal history, biology, relationships, and intersectional identities. We will work collaboratively to develop an individualized treatment plan informed by our shared understanding of your presenting concerns and goals, my knowledge of psychology and evidence-based treatments, and your feedback.
My approach is active, identity-affirming, trauma-informed, and attachment-based.
Thanks for taking a look at my profile! I provide individual and couples therapy to adults and enjoy helping clients work through anxiety, trauma, attachment and relationship challenges, life transitions, and identity-related concerns. As your therapist, I will strive to understand your challenges and symptoms in the context of your personal history, biology, relationships, and intersectional identities. We will work collaboratively to develop an individualized treatment plan informed by our shared understanding of your presenting concerns and goals, my knowledge of psychology and evidence-based treatments, and your feedback.
(202) 915-7459 View (202) 915-7459

See more therapy options for Chinatown, Washington

Attachment-based Therapists

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.