Attachment-based Therapists in Maryland

Photo of Amphora Psychotherapy , Counselor in Maryland
Amphora Psychotherapy
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
Using a polyvagal, attachment-based approach, we draw on techniques from Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), expressive therapies (eg.
Hello, and welcome! What a big step you've taken by looking for help; we know it wasn't easy, but you made it! Amphora Psychotherapy was created out of our passion for supporting people on their journey to finding themselves. Along the way, our top priority is to hold compassionate space for all of you - all of your joy and sorrow, your fear and anger, your old wounds and new. We specialize in working with adults struggling with numbness, anger, depression, anxiety, codependency, or low self-esteem due to trauma related to relationships, family, or adverse experiences.
Using a polyvagal, attachment-based approach, we draw on techniques from Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems (IFS), expressive therapies (eg.
Hello, and welcome! What a big step you've taken by looking for help; we know it wasn't easy, but you made it! Amphora Psychotherapy was created out of our passion for supporting people on their journey to finding themselves. Along the way, our top priority is to hold compassionate space for all of you - all of your joy and sorrow, your fear and anger, your old wounds and new. We specialize in working with adults struggling with numbness, anger, depression, anxiety, codependency, or low self-esteem due to trauma related to relationships, family, or adverse experiences.
(301) 381-3491 View (301) 381-3491
Photo of Daniela Wolf, Counselor in Maryland
Daniela Wolf
Counselor, LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Cabin John, MD 20818
My work consists of a collaborative exploration of your needs and hopes in a supportive and culturally sensitive environment. Past and present life adversaries often shape the way we feel and interact. Examining our unhealthy patterns and incorperating our strengths in a trusting therapeutic relationship, can elicit experiences of personal growth, living a richer life and increasing our propensity for healthy and adaptive relationships. I work well with a range of psychological needs and concerns; anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self - esteem, life changing events and trauma are some of the areas that I welcome in our exploration.
My work consists of a collaborative exploration of your needs and hopes in a supportive and culturally sensitive environment. Past and present life adversaries often shape the way we feel and interact. Examining our unhealthy patterns and incorperating our strengths in a trusting therapeutic relationship, can elicit experiences of personal growth, living a richer life and increasing our propensity for healthy and adaptive relationships. I work well with a range of psychological needs and concerns; anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, relationship issues, self - esteem, life changing events and trauma are some of the areas that I welcome in our exploration.
(301) 945-7027 View (301) 945-7027
Photo of Bridget Dromerick, Counselor in Maryland
Bridget Dromerick
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
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 Tamar Barnett, Counselor in Maryland
Tamar Barnett
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
Therapy may include a range of evidence-based approaches including trauma informed care, mindfulness, and an attachment-based approach.
Accepting New Clients! If you experience frequent stress and anxiety in your everyday life, you are not alone. Worrying and feeling overwhelmed can leave you exhausted. If you are tired of feeling this way, counseling can help. I will work to understand your needs and to support you, guiding you towards living with more calmness and connection in your relationships. Prioritizing a nurturing and warm environment in the therapy sessions, we can work collaboratively to help you to access your strengths, and to cultivate more self-compassion and greater self-awareness. Our work together can help you to feel more at ease with yourself.
Therapy may include a range of evidence-based approaches including trauma informed care, mindfulness, and an attachment-based approach.
Accepting New Clients! If you experience frequent stress and anxiety in your everyday life, you are not alone. Worrying and feeling overwhelmed can leave you exhausted. If you are tired of feeling this way, counseling can help. I will work to understand your needs and to support you, guiding you towards living with more calmness and connection in your relationships. Prioritizing a nurturing and warm environment in the therapy sessions, we can work collaboratively to help you to access your strengths, and to cultivate more self-compassion and greater self-awareness. Our work together can help you to feel more at ease with yourself.
(240) 226-3321 View (240) 226-3321
Photo of Amanda Steinhorn, Counselor in Maryland
Amanda Steinhorn
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Attachment-based therapy tends to the emotional wounding we had as children.
I specialize in attachment based therapy for adults struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, life challenges, co-dependency and/or relationship issues. I work from a holistic, client centered perspective merging clinical approaches such as EMDR, Attachment-Based, CBT and Inner-Child work . Additionally, I have experience working with adolescents struggling with a variety of mental health issues such as, anxiety, depression and/or anger management.
Attachment-based therapy tends to the emotional wounding we had as children.
I specialize in attachment based therapy for adults struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, life challenges, co-dependency and/or relationship issues. I work from a holistic, client centered perspective merging clinical approaches such as EMDR, Attachment-Based, CBT and Inner-Child work . Additionally, I have experience working with adolescents struggling with a variety of mental health issues such as, anxiety, depression and/or anger management.
(443) 232-1934 View (443) 232-1934
Photo of Emma Wanroy, Counselor in Maryland
Emma Wanroy
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Towson, MD 21286  (Online Only)
I'm only seeing clients located in Maryland and fully virtual! I believe by exploring our past experiences and relationships we can find answers to better understand our own behaviors and thought processes. Our best healing happens throughout the context of a safe relationship and that is what I offer in therapy; a safe place where my client can explore their pain, trauma, hurt, and confusion in order to heal and live the most meaningful life possible. My clients know what their goals are and are excited to get to work but may need more accountability or support. Sometimes they aren't so clear and I can help with that, too!
I'm only seeing clients located in Maryland and fully virtual! I believe by exploring our past experiences and relationships we can find answers to better understand our own behaviors and thought processes. Our best healing happens throughout the context of a safe relationship and that is what I offer in therapy; a safe place where my client can explore their pain, trauma, hurt, and confusion in order to heal and live the most meaningful life possible. My clients know what their goals are and are excited to get to work but may need more accountability or support. Sometimes they aren't so clear and I can help with that, too!
(240) 512-8119 View (240) 512-8119
Photo of Angelica Newsome, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Angelica Newsome
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Columbia, MD 21044
Waitlist for new clients
I use a trauma-informed approach and have training in several therapeutic models including acceptance and commitment therapy, solution focused therapy, attachment-based therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
With the demands life makes on us, sometimes it becomes too much. The same way we go to the doctor for physical ailments, sometimes we need assistance managing our mental and emotional wellbeing. Do you need support as you balance the many roles you have in your life? Have you noticed your physical health being impacted by the stress? Maybe you've had huge milestones or life events happen and are having a hard time adjusting? Or maybe you've been hearing buzz phrases like 'self care' and are wondering what that looks like beyond home spa days?
I use a trauma-informed approach and have training in several therapeutic models including acceptance and commitment therapy, solution focused therapy, attachment-based therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
With the demands life makes on us, sometimes it becomes too much. The same way we go to the doctor for physical ailments, sometimes we need assistance managing our mental and emotional wellbeing. Do you need support as you balance the many roles you have in your life? Have you noticed your physical health being impacted by the stress? Maybe you've had huge milestones or life events happen and are having a hard time adjusting? Or maybe you've been hearing buzz phrases like 'self care' and are wondering what that looks like beyond home spa days?
(240) 775-2537 View (240) 775-2537
Photo of Lindsay Summers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Lindsay Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211  (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 Priya Gill, Counselor in Maryland
Priya Gill
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850  (Online Only)
I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere for clients. I use a holistic and collaborative approach, recognizing that it can be difficult to process painful emotions alone. I draw from Psychodynamic, Attachment-based, Solution-Focused, and Existential approaches. Together, we'll identify the patterns that hold you back and develop practical tools to navigate life's stressors. We'll also work toward dismantling the barriers of self-doubt and crippling anxiety, nurturing your authentic sense of self.
I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere for clients. I use a holistic and collaborative approach, recognizing that it can be difficult to process painful emotions alone. I draw from Psychodynamic, Attachment-based, Solution-Focused, and Existential approaches. Together, we'll identify the patterns that hold you back and develop practical tools to navigate life's stressors. We'll also work toward dismantling the barriers of self-doubt and crippling anxiety, nurturing your authentic sense of self.
(240) 837-8116 View (240) 837-8116
Photo of Ellen Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Ellen Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20850
Waitlist for new clients
I provide therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children, working with issues including relationship difficulties, life changes, trauma, grief, and emotion regulation. During therapy, I aim to meet you where you’re at and create an emotionally safe space where you can fully express yourself and heal, no matter what challenges you’re facing. I integrate techniques from client-centered, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method, and mindfulness- and attachment-based therapies to help clients deal with stress, anxiety, depression, and life events impacting well-being.
I provide therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children, working with issues including relationship difficulties, life changes, trauma, grief, and emotion regulation. During therapy, I aim to meet you where you’re at and create an emotionally safe space where you can fully express yourself and heal, no matter what challenges you’re facing. I integrate techniques from client-centered, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method, and mindfulness- and attachment-based therapies to help clients deal with stress, anxiety, depression, and life events impacting well-being.
(301) 701-4234 View (301) 701-4234
Photo of Megan Rosenblatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Megan Rosenblatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DPC, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waitlist for new clients
I have found that many clients benefit from a person-centered, attachment-based approach.
Hi there! I'm so glad you are here-you are taking a big step toward further growth and healing. I realize that reaching out can add to feelings of vulnerability and being overwhelmed. I commend you for taking this huge step.
I have found that many clients benefit from a person-centered, attachment-based approach.
Hi there! I'm so glad you are here-you are taking a big step toward further growth and healing. I realize that reaching out can add to feelings of vulnerability and being overwhelmed. I commend you for taking this huge step.
(667) 256-7486 View (667) 256-7486
Photo of Fatima Massaquoi in Maryland
Fatima Massaquoi
LMSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, I approach therapeutic engagements from a lens of compassion that helps to allow for the facilitation of safety, security, acknowledgement, and understanding within the therapeutic space; fundamental aspects to human engagement we all need and thrive on.
Providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, I approach therapeutic engagements from a lens of compassion that helps to allow for the facilitation of safety, security, acknowledgement, and understanding within the therapeutic space; fundamental aspects to human engagement we all need and thrive on.
(240) 623-2320 View (240) 623-2320
Photo of Alyssa Weinman, Counselor in Maryland
Alyssa Weinman
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lutherville, MD 21093
Immediate Availability for New Clients: As a therapist, it is my privilege and passion to work with individuals during the difficult times of their lives. I am a licensed therapist and college professor, dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic well-being for individuals of all ages. I believe in a collaborative, person-centered, and strength-based perspective. Through individualized treatment using psychodynamic, family systems, and attachment-based approaches, I work to empower clients as they take those first small intentional steps in choosing the life they want in the face of challenges or struggles.
Immediate Availability for New Clients: As a therapist, it is my privilege and passion to work with individuals during the difficult times of their lives. I am a licensed therapist and college professor, dedicated to providing compassionate and holistic well-being for individuals of all ages. I believe in a collaborative, person-centered, and strength-based perspective. Through individualized treatment using psychodynamic, family systems, and attachment-based approaches, I work to empower clients as they take those first small intentional steps in choosing the life they want in the face of challenges or struggles.
(410) 593-3617 View (410) 593-3617
Photo of Hannah Schwartz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Hannah Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Working from a trauma-informed lens, I use an integrative approach that draws from psychodynamic, attachment-based, cognitive behavioral, person-centered and led, and solution-focused modalities.
I specialize working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults with concerns related to trauma, complex trauma and generational trauma, parent-child relational problems, family conflict, grief, ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, parent coaching and self-esteem. I have experience working with clients from a diverse array of identities and backgrounds. My approach is nonjudgmental, fun, collaborative, empathetic, and honest. I view the therapeutic relationship as a central component, building a trusting and safe connection with my clients that is adaptable, flexible, and collaborative.
Working from a trauma-informed lens, I use an integrative approach that draws from psychodynamic, attachment-based, cognitive behavioral, person-centered and led, and solution-focused modalities.
I specialize working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults with concerns related to trauma, complex trauma and generational trauma, parent-child relational problems, family conflict, grief, ADHD, depression, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, parent coaching and self-esteem. I have experience working with clients from a diverse array of identities and backgrounds. My approach is nonjudgmental, fun, collaborative, empathetic, and honest. I view the therapeutic relationship as a central component, building a trusting and safe connection with my clients that is adaptable, flexible, and collaborative.
(240) 690-6912 View (240) 690-6912
Photo of Penny Zimmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Penny Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
I enjoy using Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, Play, Sand Tray, and Art Therapies; Theraplay, TF-CBT, and Attachment-Based Parenting in my work.
My clients are smart, successful people who want to create change in their lives. Does your life look good on paper, but you don't feel happy or fulfilled? Experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression? Maybe, like many, you suffered trauma, now interfering with your quality of life. You want insight and action, process and results, to feel and perform better. Maybe you are the concerned parent of a child, seeking help for emotional or behavior problems. You want a trusted therapist for your child who will include you in their treatment, and who will provide you with information and realistic strategies you can use at home.
I enjoy using Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, Play, Sand Tray, and Art Therapies; Theraplay, TF-CBT, and Attachment-Based Parenting in my work.
My clients are smart, successful people who want to create change in their lives. Does your life look good on paper, but you don't feel happy or fulfilled? Experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression? Maybe, like many, you suffered trauma, now interfering with your quality of life. You want insight and action, process and results, to feel and perform better. Maybe you are the concerned parent of a child, seeking help for emotional or behavior problems. You want a trusted therapist for your child who will include you in their treatment, and who will provide you with information and realistic strategies you can use at home.
(301) 888-5343 View (301) 888-5343
Photo of Victoria Alves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Victoria Alves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored to your unique child/teen and/or family.
Victoria was transracially adopted from China as an infant. Her previous work history includes: supervising visitation between parents and their children, working as a school counselor in a public charter school, providing intensive, home-based therapy to children with intense emotional and behavioral needs, and providing clinical case management to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Victoria believes strongly in client-oriented services and that everyone should have access to the opportunities and support that they need to succeed. Victoria is also passionate about self-improvement and continuing to learn throughout your life.
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored to your unique child/teen and/or family.
Victoria was transracially adopted from China as an infant. Her previous work history includes: supervising visitation between parents and their children, working as a school counselor in a public charter school, providing intensive, home-based therapy to children with intense emotional and behavioral needs, and providing clinical case management to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Victoria believes strongly in client-oriented services and that everyone should have access to the opportunities and support that they need to succeed. Victoria is also passionate about self-improvement and continuing to learn throughout your life.
(240) 716-5698 View (240) 716-5698
Photo of Kairo Vivas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Kairo Vivas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Need help with behavioral issues that your child is presenting at home or at school? Feeling anxious, depressed, or having a hard time with life stressors? I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working with children and families for many years in the DMV. If your child is acting up in school, not following directions at home, or if life feels like its falling apart. Please consider giving me a call and setting up an appointment and lets see how we can best address these issues.
Need help with behavioral issues that your child is presenting at home or at school? Feeling anxious, depressed, or having a hard time with life stressors? I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been working with children and families for many years in the DMV. If your child is acting up in school, not following directions at home, or if life feels like its falling apart. Please consider giving me a call and setting up an appointment and lets see how we can best address these issues.
(443) 501-2704 View (443) 501-2704
Photo of Christy Green, Counselor in Maryland
Christy Green
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204  (Online Only)
Examples of life challenges that people seek my help with include relationship issues, stress management, difficulties at work/school, low self-esteem, diagnosis with a serious illness, parenting, lifestyle changes or adjustments, and many more! For couples, I offer Gottman Method and Attachment-Based Couples interventions, and other treatment modalities.
Navigating life stressors, transitions and relationships can be challenging. I assist individuals and couples in a non-judgmental, compassionate manner, using a strengths-based approach to address a variety of mental health, relationship, communication and career issues. During our sessions, I will support you in identifying emotional triggers, learning coping techniques, healthier communication strategies, and conflict resolution skills, while developing self-care practices, that promote psychological wellness and stability. Start living your best life today!
Examples of life challenges that people seek my help with include relationship issues, stress management, difficulties at work/school, low self-esteem, diagnosis with a serious illness, parenting, lifestyle changes or adjustments, and many more! For couples, I offer Gottman Method and Attachment-Based Couples interventions, and other treatment modalities.
Navigating life stressors, transitions and relationships can be challenging. I assist individuals and couples in a non-judgmental, compassionate manner, using a strengths-based approach to address a variety of mental health, relationship, communication and career issues. During our sessions, I will support you in identifying emotional triggers, learning coping techniques, healthier communication strategies, and conflict resolution skills, while developing self-care practices, that promote psychological wellness and stability. Start living your best life today!
(410) 936-7200 View (410) 936-7200
Photo of Sarah Otley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Sarah Otley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21201  (Online Only)
Sarah offers a trauma-informed and individualized approach, implementing mindfulness-based, solutions-focused, narrative, family systems, attachment-based, and cognitive  behavioral (CBT) interventions.
Sarah Otley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has more than 9 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, and families with depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, anxiety, family conflict, and stress management. Sarah also holds a Trauma Treatment with Children and Adolescents Certificate. Sarah received her Bachelor's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland.
Sarah offers a trauma-informed and individualized approach, implementing mindfulness-based, solutions-focused, narrative, family systems, attachment-based, and cognitive  behavioral (CBT) interventions.
Sarah Otley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has more than 9 years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, and families with depression, trauma, grief, ADHD, anxiety, family conflict, and stress management. Sarah also holds a Trauma Treatment with Children and Adolescents Certificate. Sarah received her Bachelor's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) and her Master's degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland.
(667) 200-1180 View (667) 200-1180
Photo of The Barker Adoption Foundation, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
The Barker Adoption Foundation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
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
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.