Photo of Lee Goins, Pre-Licensed Professional in Atlanta, GA
Lee Goins
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
I utilize a trauma-informed lens, with an attachment-based, systemic, and person-centered framework, while integrating somatic or narrative techniques.
Some stories are just too hard for us to tell on our own and some will cause us pain just because we are still stuck in the middle of it. Stories can cause us to feel anxiety, stress, depression, confusion, and anger. They can even cause us to do things that we know are not helpful, even harmful, to cope with the negative feelings. I have a passion for people's stories and walking with people through the painful but enriching process of getting unstuck. Wherever you find yourself, you are welcome to come exactly as you are.
I utilize a trauma-informed lens, with an attachment-based, systemic, and person-centered framework, while integrating somatic or narrative techniques.
Some stories are just too hard for us to tell on our own and some will cause us pain just because we are still stuck in the middle of it. Stories can cause us to feel anxiety, stress, depression, confusion, and anger. They can even cause us to do things that we know are not helpful, even harmful, to cope with the negative feelings. I have a passion for people's stories and walking with people through the painful but enriching process of getting unstuck. Wherever you find yourself, you are welcome to come exactly as you are.
(678) 304-2187 View (678) 304-2187
Photo of Tiffany Jones-Deeds, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Tiffany Jones-Deeds
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
The foundation of our programming is our team of compassionate and highly experienced behavioral healthcare professionals. The Newport staff is comprised of the best mental health leaders in the country, surrounding each client with 360-degree care. Because Newport’s philosophy of care views family as central to long-term, sustainable healing, the groundbreaking Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) methodology is also a central component of our approach. ABFT is proven to be successful in addressing adolescent and young adult suicidality by repairing ruptures in the parent-child relationship. Our clinicians receive ongoing trainin
The foundation of our programming is our team of compassionate and highly experienced behavioral healthcare professionals. The Newport staff is comprised of the best mental health leaders in the country, surrounding each client with 360-degree care. Because Newport’s philosophy of care views family as central to long-term, sustainable healing, the groundbreaking Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) methodology is also a central component of our approach. ABFT is proven to be successful in addressing adolescent and young adult suicidality by repairing ruptures in the parent-child relationship. Our clinicians receive ongoing trainin
(404) 999-0853 View (404) 999-0853
Photo of Simone Sobel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Simone Sobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
I work with individuals on both a short-term and long-term basis, and draw from a variety of theories and approaches including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, existential and attachment-based therapies.
I specialize in working with adults who have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, and relationship issues. Often when we experience difficult life events, we hold our upsetting memories vividly in our thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and even in our bodies. We revisit the painful past again and again, stuck in negativity and unable to simply talk our way out of the distress. I help my clients to access and process, at a deeper level, these experiences, using effective, evidence-based modalities that work. We clear out the painful past to make room for the joyful, fulfilled, self-actualized life they yearn for and deserve.
I work with individuals on both a short-term and long-term basis, and draw from a variety of theories and approaches including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, existential and attachment-based therapies.
I specialize in working with adults who have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, and relationship issues. Often when we experience difficult life events, we hold our upsetting memories vividly in our thoughts, beliefs, emotions, and even in our bodies. We revisit the painful past again and again, stuck in negativity and unable to simply talk our way out of the distress. I help my clients to access and process, at a deeper level, these experiences, using effective, evidence-based modalities that work. We clear out the painful past to make room for the joyful, fulfilled, self-actualized life they yearn for and deserve.
(678) 929-1245 View (678) 929-1245
Photo of Michael Ramsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Michael Ramsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318
Hello! I'm Alec Ramsey, a licensed marriage and family therapist with seven years of clinical experience. I specialize in treating addiction, ADHD, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders, and grief. I use a blend of EMDR, Attachment-based, Dialectical (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) modalities. When working with couples, I use the emotionally focused therapy framework to help partners communicate deeper and more effectively. My goal is to support you in overcoming what may feel unmanageable, unpredictable, and uncontrollable.
Hello! I'm Alec Ramsey, a licensed marriage and family therapist with seven years of clinical experience. I specialize in treating addiction, ADHD, trauma and PTSD, mood disorders, and grief. I use a blend of EMDR, Attachment-based, Dialectical (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) modalities. When working with couples, I use the emotionally focused therapy framework to help partners communicate deeper and more effectively. My goal is to support you in overcoming what may feel unmanageable, unpredictable, and uncontrollable.
(678) 403-6623 View (678) 403-6623
Photo of Kelli R. Spencer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Kelli R. Spencer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30327
I use an attachment-based, somatic approach to healing and include mindfulness and interventions from nonviolent communication, DBT, CBT, and ACT to build stabilization, engender self awareness and growth, and enable healing from events in the past that are re-experienced in the present, helping clients earn secure attachment to find safety and trust within.
Grounded in experiential and existential orientations, I work to understand the meaning you make of life. I walk with you to help identify purpose, values, and behaviors to live more authentically and deliberately. I foster a supportive, interpersonal therapeutic relationship, and my holistic approach taps into the body's innate wisdom to promote adaptive responses and facilitate healing. By choosing to move through discomfort--a normal and healthy response to life's uncertainties--you expand opportunities for growth. My prior career in business and technology enables me to understand the unique demands of corporate professionals.
I use an attachment-based, somatic approach to healing and include mindfulness and interventions from nonviolent communication, DBT, CBT, and ACT to build stabilization, engender self awareness and growth, and enable healing from events in the past that are re-experienced in the present, helping clients earn secure attachment to find safety and trust within.
Grounded in experiential and existential orientations, I work to understand the meaning you make of life. I walk with you to help identify purpose, values, and behaviors to live more authentically and deliberately. I foster a supportive, interpersonal therapeutic relationship, and my holistic approach taps into the body's innate wisdom to promote adaptive responses and facilitate healing. By choosing to move through discomfort--a normal and healthy response to life's uncertainties--you expand opportunities for growth. My prior career in business and technology enables me to understand the unique demands of corporate professionals.
(404) 998-5302 View (404) 998-5302
Photo of Eliza Segell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Eliza Segell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306
I utilize evidence-based therapies, including trauma-focused, attachment-based, mindfulness, and emotionally-focused approaches.
Your problems may be specific - a challenging relationship, sexual concerns, upsetting memories, or problem behaviors. Or your struggles may be less tangible - feeling lost, detached, or stuck. In my practice, I offer adult and couples therapy for a range of concerns. I specialize in treating sexual dysfunctions, trauma-related issues, relationship concerns, and problem behaviors. I also provide gender & sexual identity affirming care. I deeply enjoy helping individuals feel a greater sense of self-efficacy, confidence, and clarity in their lives.
I utilize evidence-based therapies, including trauma-focused, attachment-based, mindfulness, and emotionally-focused approaches.
Your problems may be specific - a challenging relationship, sexual concerns, upsetting memories, or problem behaviors. Or your struggles may be less tangible - feeling lost, detached, or stuck. In my practice, I offer adult and couples therapy for a range of concerns. I specialize in treating sexual dysfunctions, trauma-related issues, relationship concerns, and problem behaviors. I also provide gender & sexual identity affirming care. I deeply enjoy helping individuals feel a greater sense of self-efficacy, confidence, and clarity in their lives.
(434) 201-4934 View (434) 201-4934
Photo of Amanda Dempsey Barnes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Amanda Dempsey Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is truly passionate about walking people through difficult times throughout their lives and to help them to find hope. I strive to make sure each client feels heard and understood and take the time to develop individual relationships with each of my clients. Throughout my time in private practice, I have had the opportunity to work with teens and adults facing a variety of issues. Specifically, I have worked with individuals, couples and families experiencing conflict, communication issues, divorce, difficulty with co-parenting, issues with self esteem and life stage transitions.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is truly passionate about walking people through difficult times throughout their lives and to help them to find hope. I strive to make sure each client feels heard and understood and take the time to develop individual relationships with each of my clients. Throughout my time in private practice, I have had the opportunity to work with teens and adults facing a variety of issues. Specifically, I have worked with individuals, couples and families experiencing conflict, communication issues, divorce, difficulty with co-parenting, issues with self esteem and life stage transitions.
(678) 568-4930 View (678) 568-4930
Photo of Rachel Postic in Atlanta, GA
Rachel Postic
APC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342
My passion is working with couples who are dating, engaged, newly married, or transitioning into parenthood. Couples in these stages often have difficulty communicating effectively, resolving conflict, interacting with challenging family members, integrating their lives together, and other frustrations. I also see individuals (ages 13 and up) experiencing difficult life transitions, relationship issues, loneliness, issues of faith or spirituality, and complicated family dynamics. Whatever is bringing you to therapy at this time, my job is to come alongside you and help you navigate your way through the difficult chapter you are in.
My passion is working with couples who are dating, engaged, newly married, or transitioning into parenthood. Couples in these stages often have difficulty communicating effectively, resolving conflict, interacting with challenging family members, integrating their lives together, and other frustrations. I also see individuals (ages 13 and up) experiencing difficult life transitions, relationship issues, loneliness, issues of faith or spirituality, and complicated family dynamics. Whatever is bringing you to therapy at this time, my job is to come alongside you and help you navigate your way through the difficult chapter you are in.
(470) 410-4395 View (470) 410-4395
Photo of Eleanor Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Eleanor Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30315
Hello, I am Eleanor Brown, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have over thirty years of experience working in the mental health field. Are you looking for an experienced nonjudgmental therapist? I am here to provide you with support, guidance, and a safe place for you to heal. I provide individual therapy for adults, teenagers, and geriatrics. I work with those suffering from anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, anger, ADHD, relationship issues, career changes, and co-occurring issues. I will support you in attaining peace and identifying and meeting goals that improve your quality of life.
Hello, I am Eleanor Brown, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have over thirty years of experience working in the mental health field. Are you looking for an experienced nonjudgmental therapist? I am here to provide you with support, guidance, and a safe place for you to heal. I provide individual therapy for adults, teenagers, and geriatrics. I work with those suffering from anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, anger, ADHD, relationship issues, career changes, and co-occurring issues. I will support you in attaining peace and identifying and meeting goals that improve your quality of life.
(770) 501-6828 View (770) 501-6828
Photo of Maya Lemberg, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Maya Lemberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30341
As a warm, heart-centered, holistic therapist, I am deeply interested in accompanying my clients in their journey to health, happiness, and wholeness. In facilitating a safe healing space for adults, we gently explore what emerges in the present moment, letting the session organically unfold. I am welcoming clients who want to step into an authentic, more peaceful, more empowered and expansive place within themselves. I work with those experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship turmoil, spiritual or existential issues, grief, life transitions, women's issues, co-dependency, abuse, trauma, or those simply wanting to find deeper contentment in their lives.
As a warm, heart-centered, holistic therapist, I am deeply interested in accompanying my clients in their journey to health, happiness, and wholeness. In facilitating a safe healing space for adults, we gently explore what emerges in the present moment, letting the session organically unfold. I am welcoming clients who want to step into an authentic, more peaceful, more empowered and expansive place within themselves. I work with those experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship turmoil, spiritual or existential issues, grief, life transitions, women's issues, co-dependency, abuse, trauma, or those simply wanting to find deeper contentment in their lives.
(770) 629-0645 View (770) 629-0645
Photo of Ena Melton-Myers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Ena Melton-Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30310
My name is Ena (pronounced ee-nah) Melton-Myers. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. For me, therapy is about growth for you in whatever way is going to have the most positive impact on you at this time. In some phases of our life, growth is in small steps that help break down the things that seem overwhelming. In other phases of our life, we are ready for growth that feels like leaps and bounds. Our time together should focus on what you need at this moment to be better tomorrow. I've been very fortunate to work with a wide array of clients and am comfortable treating most conditions.
My name is Ena (pronounced ee-nah) Melton-Myers. I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia. For me, therapy is about growth for you in whatever way is going to have the most positive impact on you at this time. In some phases of our life, growth is in small steps that help break down the things that seem overwhelming. In other phases of our life, we are ready for growth that feels like leaps and bounds. Our time together should focus on what you need at this moment to be better tomorrow. I've been very fortunate to work with a wide array of clients and am comfortable treating most conditions.
(470) 450-4877 View (470) 450-4877
Photo of Innovative Options Incorporated, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Innovative Options Incorporated
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331
Innovative Options Incorporated believes that compassionate, high quality behavioral healthcare services can best be provided by being faithful to our core values of respect, justice, compassion, integrity, quality, and confidentiality. Innovative Options is dedicated to promoting an atmosphere of mutual respect and collaboration among everyone involved in care. Innovative Options operates its programs based on the premises of utilizing evidence base empirically supported therapeutic interventions.
Innovative Options Incorporated believes that compassionate, high quality behavioral healthcare services can best be provided by being faithful to our core values of respect, justice, compassion, integrity, quality, and confidentiality. Innovative Options is dedicated to promoting an atmosphere of mutual respect and collaboration among everyone involved in care. Innovative Options operates its programs based on the premises of utilizing evidence base empirically supported therapeutic interventions.
(404) 800-7358 View (404) 800-7358
Photo of Seek Wise Counsel , Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Seek Wise Counsel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
My name is Deon L Sanders and I am the Ower/CEO of Seek Wise Counsel. I and my staff, specialize in African American psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Schema Therapy, Gestalt, Trauma Focused CBT and IFS.  My specific training/education in African American Psychology has provided me knowledge and a deeper subconscious understanding of how the residual effects of slavery, and religious trauma hinders our people. We have both Male and Female therapist on staff. To see staff bios and to book free consultations please visit our website seekwisecounseling.com
(678) 252-5351 View (678) 252-5351
Photo of Amber Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Amber Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30309
I enjoy working with patients through a person-centered and Cognitive Behavioral therapy lense to help meet patients where they are as well as help them see the link between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I enjoy working with patients on body image and disordered eating patterns. I strive to help patients feel more comfortable and accepting of who they are.
I enjoy working with patients through a person-centered and Cognitive Behavioral therapy lense to help meet patients where they are as well as help them see the link between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I enjoy working with patients on body image and disordered eating patterns. I strive to help patients feel more comfortable and accepting of who they are.
(470) 619-4195 View (470) 619-4195
Photo of Lucero del Rocio Morse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Lucero del Rocio Morse
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT, CPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30308
As a Multi-Lingual Mental Health Counselor, I've had the opportunity of working with English, Spanish, and Portuguese speaking populations. I had received extensive Play Therapy training and I am a Registered Play Therapist. I specialize in working with Major Depressive Disorder, Trauma, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Family, and Group relationships. I firmly believe that people can heal through the power of the therapeutic alliance between the client and the therapist, while implementing new skills that will improve their situations. "The therapist's role is like a mirror where the soul can be explored"
As a Multi-Lingual Mental Health Counselor, I've had the opportunity of working with English, Spanish, and Portuguese speaking populations. I had received extensive Play Therapy training and I am a Registered Play Therapist. I specialize in working with Major Depressive Disorder, Trauma, Personality Disorders, ADHD, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Family, and Group relationships. I firmly believe that people can heal through the power of the therapeutic alliance between the client and the therapist, while implementing new skills that will improve their situations. "The therapist's role is like a mirror where the soul can be explored"
(678) 681-9953 View (678) 681-9953
Photo of Anna Beilman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Anna Beilman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307  (Online Only)
Are you looking for guidance navigating a difficult life transition? Do you feel stressed out, easily overwhelmed, or generally uncomfortable in your skin? Is substance use or a traumatic past limiting the way you live? Whether you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, or addiction, I can offer you a safe place to heal and grow. Looking into therapy is a brave first step in taking control of your life, and no matter what you are going through, I will meet you with compassion and respect. I believe that a holistic approach to treating the mind, body, and soul—something I am passionate about—can help you discover your authentic self.
Are you looking for guidance navigating a difficult life transition? Do you feel stressed out, easily overwhelmed, or generally uncomfortable in your skin? Is substance use or a traumatic past limiting the way you live? Whether you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, or addiction, I can offer you a safe place to heal and grow. Looking into therapy is a brave first step in taking control of your life, and no matter what you are going through, I will meet you with compassion and respect. I believe that a holistic approach to treating the mind, body, and soul—something I am passionate about—can help you discover your authentic self.
(470) 236-5983 View (470) 236-5983
DuVal Cravens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
I offer different types of therapeutic avenues to explore, rework, release and address challenges old or new. We decide the timetable and scope of therapy together whether very focused change is desired or more in depth reworking is wanted. Some people also use therapy to maintain positive gains and have a unique place to speak/ find the truth in a safe, trusting environment. The focus is on enhancing and building on strengths to realize potential based on needs. I use brainspotting, polyvagal informed therapy (Unyte/ILS listening system) and IFS(Internal Family Systems) to deeply and often more rapidly release blocked/frozen issues
I offer different types of therapeutic avenues to explore, rework, release and address challenges old or new. We decide the timetable and scope of therapy together whether very focused change is desired or more in depth reworking is wanted. Some people also use therapy to maintain positive gains and have a unique place to speak/ find the truth in a safe, trusting environment. The focus is on enhancing and building on strengths to realize potential based on needs. I use brainspotting, polyvagal informed therapy (Unyte/ILS listening system) and IFS(Internal Family Systems) to deeply and often more rapidly release blocked/frozen issues
(404) 236-6474 View (404) 236-6474
Photo of Jennifer Bailey, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Jennifer Bailey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30328
Dr. Bailey is a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, OCD/panic, trauma and attachment disorders, executive functioning difficulties, behavioral issues, school refusal, social and academic difficulties and family issues. She provides individual and family therapy, group therapy, parent coaching, school consultation, in-home services and psychological evaluations. Therapeutically, she utilizes scientifically supported therapy techniques that are specifically chosen to meet each client and family's needs.
Dr. Bailey is a licensed psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults and their families in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, OCD/panic, trauma and attachment disorders, executive functioning difficulties, behavioral issues, school refusal, social and academic difficulties and family issues. She provides individual and family therapy, group therapy, parent coaching, school consultation, in-home services and psychological evaluations. Therapeutically, she utilizes scientifically supported therapy techniques that are specifically chosen to meet each client and family's needs.
(770) 913-6183 View (770) 913-6183
Photo of Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Perimeter Therapy Associates, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30346
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
Perimeter Therapy Associates provides psychological services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, couples, and families experiencing life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, post partum depression, anxiety, grief, parenting concerns and other mental health issues. Our approach to therapy is tailored to the unique needs of each client, facilitating positive change in a warm and caring environment. We assist clients in making fundamental changes in the way they think and act thereby improving their ability to solve problems, cope and communicate effectively. We also provide supervision for LAPC's working toward LPC licensure.
(678) 824-2031 View (678) 824-2031
Photo of Charles O'Connor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Charles O'Connor
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
First of all, thank you for viewing my profile! I want to help! I can assist you as you explore your life experiences and relationships to come to a fuller understanding of yourself and others. I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is active, structured, and goal-directed, which means you play a critical part in the therapeutic process. Therapy is effective and rewarding when your personal and relationship goals are clear and obtainable. I can help you clarify your goals and help you reach them in a way in which you feel capable, comfortable, and confident.
First of all, thank you for viewing my profile! I want to help! I can assist you as you explore your life experiences and relationships to come to a fuller understanding of yourself and others. I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is active, structured, and goal-directed, which means you play a critical part in the therapeutic process. Therapy is effective and rewarding when your personal and relationship goals are clear and obtainable. I can help you clarify your goals and help you reach them in a way in which you feel capable, comfortable, and confident.
(678) 929-9691 View (678) 929-9691
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.