Attachment-based Therapists in District of Columbia

Photo of Paul M Higgins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
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 District of Columbia
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 Dr. Michelle R Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Dr. Michelle R Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
I have developed a high skill level in several modalities including; Psychodynamic, Relational and Attachment-based Therapy, Trauma Informed, Marriage and Family Therapy/Family Systems Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Forensic Therapy and Addictions.
Hello and thank you for having the courage and strength to learn more about YOU. Psychotherapy is a process and a process that I will take with you. About me: I began my career over 20 years ago, and have worked in several grassroots organizations with the common mission of empowering individuals. I have a love for service and advocacy particularity for the most vulnerable and disenfranchised groups.
I have developed a high skill level in several modalities including; Psychodynamic, Relational and Attachment-based Therapy, Trauma Informed, Marriage and Family Therapy/Family Systems Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Forensic Therapy and Addictions.
Hello and thank you for having the courage and strength to learn more about YOU. Psychotherapy is a process and a process that I will take with you. About me: I began my career over 20 years ago, and have worked in several grassroots organizations with the common mission of empowering individuals. I have a love for service and advocacy particularity for the most vulnerable and disenfranchised groups.
(202) 714-3369 View (202) 714-3369
Photo of Melanie Kolkin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
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 Dr. Aliza Goldberg, Psychological Associate in District of Columbia
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
Photo of Hayley O'Brien, Licensed Professional Counselor in District of Columbia
Hayley O'Brien
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. You've made the courageous choice to seek professional help. I understand finding the right therapist can be tough, and this may be your first big step towards change. If you are wanting more calm and centeredness within yourself and more stability and connectedness in your relationships, we might be a good fit. I value collaboration, trust and safety above all else. I like to see us as a team where your sense of choice and voice are essential to the process. Together, we will work to forge a new path towards healing.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. You've made the courageous choice to seek professional help. I understand finding the right therapist can be tough, and this may be your first big step towards change. If you are wanting more calm and centeredness within yourself and more stability and connectedness in your relationships, we might be a good fit. I value collaboration, trust and safety above all else. I like to see us as a team where your sense of choice and voice are essential to the process. Together, we will work to forge a new path towards healing.
(202) 875-6116 View (202) 875-6116
Photo of Adi Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
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 Patricia Parra Moreno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
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.
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Photo of Ana Cristina Ponce @ Modern Balance Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
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.
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Photo of Meredith Luttrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in District of Columbia
Meredith Luttrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001
I view therapy as a collaborative process where the client is the expert on themselves, and the therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in creating change. It is important to have a safe, empowering, and supportive environment in order to examine hurtful relationship patterns and emotional difficulties, and in turn change negative self-evaluations to better respond to life's challenges. I am genuinely interested in and committed to helping my clients gain insight and express their needs in order to engage in more healthy relationships and live the life they want.
I view therapy as a collaborative process where the client is the expert on themselves, and the therapeutic relationship is the most important factor in creating change. It is important to have a safe, empowering, and supportive environment in order to examine hurtful relationship patterns and emotional difficulties, and in turn change negative self-evaluations to better respond to life's challenges. I am genuinely interested in and committed to helping my clients gain insight and express their needs in order to engage in more healthy relationships and live the life they want.
(757) 793-2859 View (757) 793-2859
Photo of Bridget Dromerick, Counselor in District of Columbia
Bridget Dromerick
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I work with adolescents and adults with various presenting concerns such as anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, women’s health, self-esteem challenges, and sports related topics. My eclectic theoretical orientation integrates psychodynamic, cognitive and attachment based therapies.
I work with adolescents and adults with various presenting concerns such as anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, women’s health, self-esteem challenges, and sports related topics. My eclectic theoretical orientation integrates psychodynamic, cognitive and attachment based therapies.
(301) 507-0395 View (301) 507-0395
Photo of The Barker Adoption Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, sensory-integration interventions, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored for your unique child/teen and/or family.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, sensory-integration interventions, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored for your unique child/teen and/or family.
Touched by Adoption? The Barker Foundation recognizes that adoption is a lifelong journey, with normal developmental challenges and tasks. We will walk with you through and support you through your journey. Whether you are an adoptive parent with a child that is struggling emotionally or academically; a birth parent who is seeking understanding, reflection, or search and reunion; or an adoptee looking for support- we are here for you.
(240) 245-2720 View (240) 245-2720
Photo of Caroline Sahr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Caroline Sahr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
I take an integrated approach to treatment drawing from my training in polyvagal, cognitive-behavioral, somatic, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, and attachment-based modalities.
Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to pursue a career path that would make a difference in people’s lives. This interest led me to study psychological science, social work, and social justice. I care deeply about human rights, cultural humility, and integrating anti-oppressive practices. As a LCSW, I am committed to the well-being of all my clients to cater to their holistic needs. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults regarding various issues, including: anxiety, depression, stress, complex trauma, oppression, relationships and intimacy, sexual assault and domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ dynamics.
I take an integrated approach to treatment drawing from my training in polyvagal, cognitive-behavioral, somatic, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, and attachment-based modalities.
Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to pursue a career path that would make a difference in people’s lives. This interest led me to study psychological science, social work, and social justice. I care deeply about human rights, cultural humility, and integrating anti-oppressive practices. As a LCSW, I am committed to the well-being of all my clients to cater to their holistic needs. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults regarding various issues, including: anxiety, depression, stress, complex trauma, oppression, relationships and intimacy, sexual assault and domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ dynamics.
(571) 378-5113 View (571) 378-5113
Photo of Inma Iglesias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Inma Iglesias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I am trained in Trauma-Informed, Psychodynamic therapies, and CBT, and I offer an attachment-based approach in therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in attachment, conflictive relationships, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and executive functioning deficits. I have experience working with children that struggle with behavior and emotional dysregulation. I provide family therapy to support parents in managing behavioral challenges at home and can also provide coaching to their teachers. As a Play Therapist Supervisor and board approved supervisor in Maryland, I offer clinical consultation and trainings to other mental health professionals.
I am trained in Trauma-Informed, Psychodynamic therapies, and CBT, and I offer an attachment-based approach in therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in attachment, conflictive relationships, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD and executive functioning deficits. I have experience working with children that struggle with behavior and emotional dysregulation. I provide family therapy to support parents in managing behavioral challenges at home and can also provide coaching to their teachers. As a Play Therapist Supervisor and board approved supervisor in Maryland, I offer clinical consultation and trainings to other mental health professionals.
(202) 602-2282 View (202) 602-2282
Photo of Lindsay Summers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Lindsay Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition, I integrate motivational interviewing (MI), polyvagal theory, narrative therapy, psychodynamic theories, attachment-based therapy, and strength-based therapy modalities.
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Maryland, DC, and South Carolina. I approach my practice through a lens of anti-oppression, feminist, and queer theory. Recognizing the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship, I emphasize client-centered therapy that values and honors all aspects of my clients' identities. I continuously strive to address my power and privilege, serving as an ally to BIPOC, disabled individuals, sex workers, those living in poverty, fat/larger bodied individuals, immigrants, houseless individuals, the aging population, individuals under the age of 18, and those who are or have been incarcerated.
In addition, I integrate motivational interviewing (MI), polyvagal theory, narrative therapy, psychodynamic theories, attachment-based therapy, and strength-based therapy modalities.
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Maryland, DC, and South Carolina. I approach my practice through a lens of anti-oppression, feminist, and queer theory. Recognizing the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship, I emphasize client-centered therapy that values and honors all aspects of my clients' identities. I continuously strive to address my power and privilege, serving as an ally to BIPOC, disabled individuals, sex workers, those living in poverty, fat/larger bodied individuals, immigrants, houseless individuals, the aging population, individuals under the age of 18, and those who are or have been incarcerated.
(301) 820-7762 View (301) 820-7762
Photo of Karen L Hahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Karen L Hahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I have completed specialized training in Trauma Focused Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy.
My work with adults includes those with a trauma history, depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, somatic symptoms with no medical explanation, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right”, as well as healthcare providers & other first responders who have experienced increased stress during the COVID crisis. My experience with children includes those with a trauma history, adoption, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, divorce, school refusal, low self-esteem, difficult peer & family relationships, immigration, & cross-cultural adjustments.
I have completed specialized training in Trauma Focused Therapy, Attachment-based Therapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy.
My work with adults includes those with a trauma history, depression, anxiety, grief, relational issues, somatic symptoms with no medical explanation, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right”, as well as healthcare providers & other first responders who have experienced increased stress during the COVID crisis. My experience with children includes those with a trauma history, adoption, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, divorce, school refusal, low self-esteem, difficult peer & family relationships, immigration, & cross-cultural adjustments.
(571) 487-7202 View (571) 487-7202
Photo of Luis Ocampo, Pre-Licensed Professional in District of Columbia
Luis Ocampo
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
We'll explore how to identify and reframe negative thoughts, regulate mood, improve communication, learn and implement new behaviors . We'll also explore how your childhood experiences might impact and inform your current ability to form meaningful bonds. I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients to be candid about their experiences. We identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral distress related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, roles an expectations, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma and/or abuse, racial, ethic and cultural identity, and relationships.
We'll explore how to identify and reframe negative thoughts, regulate mood, improve communication, learn and implement new behaviors . We'll also explore how your childhood experiences might impact and inform your current ability to form meaningful bonds. I work with create space for BIPOC, AAPI, Latinx, LGBTQ+ (diverse) clients to be candid about their experiences. We identify cognitive, emotional and behavioral distress related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, roles an expectations, discrimination or privilege, shame, transitions, anxiety, grief, trauma and/or abuse, racial, ethic and cultural identity, and relationships.
(202) 509-9356 View (202) 509-9356
Photo of David A. Heilman, Psychologist in District of Columbia
David A. Heilman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
Waitlist for new clients
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey towards greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
One of the hardest parts of the therapeutic process is choosing the right therapist for you, and I hope to join you on your journey towards greater self-understanding, compassion, and insight. Many people come to therapy after experiencing emotional distress that has led them to feel overwhelmed and as though they have lost direction in, and control of, their life. In a safe and non-judgmental space, I work collaboratively with my clients to explore ways in which they can effectively regain a sense of empowerment, meaning, and control in their lives.
(202) 831-7813 View (202) 831-7813
Photo of Tony Brunswick, Counselor in District of Columbia
Tony Brunswick
Counselor, LGPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
We all need support at different times in our lives. Navigating relationships, grief, life transitions, anxiety, loss, and trauma can be complex and overwhelming. If you are feeling stuck, lost, or unsure of what your next step should be, my approach to therapy focuses on helping you understand what troubles you and gain insight toward change that is positive and lasting. In my work with individuals and couples, I take a caring and collaborative approach to therapy to help you discover healing and meaning in your life and in your relationships.
We all need support at different times in our lives. Navigating relationships, grief, life transitions, anxiety, loss, and trauma can be complex and overwhelming. If you are feeling stuck, lost, or unsure of what your next step should be, my approach to therapy focuses on helping you understand what troubles you and gain insight toward change that is positive and lasting. In my work with individuals and couples, I take a caring and collaborative approach to therapy to help you discover healing and meaning in your life and in your relationships.
(202) 556-1984 View (202) 556-1984
Photo of Brit Egan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in District of Columbia
Brit Egan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
[Offering Secure Video Options to individuals in VA & DC] Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.” These words, written by Pema Chödrön, capture the nature of the therapeutic relationship. Our work will look like joining together as we honor your story and compassionately notice the places in your heart that feel broken and are hurting.
[Offering Secure Video Options to individuals in VA & DC] Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It's a relationship between equals. Only when we know our own darkness well can we be present with the darkness of others. Compassion becomes real when we recognize our shared humanity.” These words, written by Pema Chödrön, capture the nature of the therapeutic relationship. Our work will look like joining together as we honor your story and compassionately notice the places in your heart that feel broken and are hurting.
(202) 831-1905 View (202) 831-1905

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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.