Photo of Karissa Curtis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Karissa Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrative therapeutic approach often including attachment-based therapies, parts work, Voice of the Heart, and the Enneagram.
I believe people's pain is holy and sacred ground and that every individual's story has value. I work with individuals and couples, and I'm passionate about understanding my clients' struggles and giving them hope for healing and redemption. In coming to counseling, my clients can be assured that I'll provide a safe, non-judgmental space for them to grow and find healing. Of particular interest to me is helping people who struggle with relationship difficulties, sexual intimacy issues, vaginismus, sexual shame, religious and sexual identity conflicts, spirituality, and conflict and boundary issues.
I use an integrative therapeutic approach often including attachment-based therapies, parts work, Voice of the Heart, and the Enneagram.
I believe people's pain is holy and sacred ground and that every individual's story has value. I work with individuals and couples, and I'm passionate about understanding my clients' struggles and giving them hope for healing and redemption. In coming to counseling, my clients can be assured that I'll provide a safe, non-judgmental space for them to grow and find healing. Of particular interest to me is helping people who struggle with relationship difficulties, sexual intimacy issues, vaginismus, sexual shame, religious and sexual identity conflicts, spirituality, and conflict and boundary issues.
(636) 306-3471 View (636) 306-3471
Photo of Kathleen Mossman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Kathleen Mossman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAC, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cottleville, MO 63304
While struggle is common to the human experience, it can lead to healing and growth. Even in the most difficult of circumstances, it is possible to choose a life of purpose and joy. My desire is to collaborate with clients to find hope, healing and solutions for life’s challenges. I am particularly interested in trauma, women’s issues, relationship struggles including betrayal trauma, parenting challenges and life transitions.  I am passionate about meeting people where they are, learning their stories and supporting them as they build the life they desire. I will hold space for your pain and hope for your healing.
While struggle is common to the human experience, it can lead to healing and growth. Even in the most difficult of circumstances, it is possible to choose a life of purpose and joy. My desire is to collaborate with clients to find hope, healing and solutions for life’s challenges. I am particularly interested in trauma, women’s issues, relationship struggles including betrayal trauma, parenting challenges and life transitions.  I am passionate about meeting people where they are, learning their stories and supporting them as they build the life they desire. I will hold space for your pain and hope for your healing.
(636) 339-4972 View (636) 339-4972
Photo of Angela Lovett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Angela Lovett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Hi there, I am here to help you. I work with individuals, couples, and families with struggles ranging from current life issues, relationship struggles, and issues that have been a lifelong battle. Clients often come to me because they have hit the lowest point and have never felt more alone, even after trying therapy countless times before. Many clients have left counseling finding resolution and a drive to live their life to the fullest. My clients have expressed finding healing, feeling equipped to manage life, and having healthier relationships and connections with others that they previously thought weren't possible.
Hi there, I am here to help you. I work with individuals, couples, and families with struggles ranging from current life issues, relationship struggles, and issues that have been a lifelong battle. Clients often come to me because they have hit the lowest point and have never felt more alone, even after trying therapy countless times before. Many clients have left counseling finding resolution and a drive to live their life to the fullest. My clients have expressed finding healing, feeling equipped to manage life, and having healthier relationships and connections with others that they previously thought weren't possible.
(314) 207-0749 View (314) 207-0749
Photo of Blooming Oasis Therapy Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Blooming Oasis Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Affton, MO 63123  (Online Only)
LPC trained in EMDR, SIP and attachment-based therapy.
Are you struggling to feel accepted & comfortable in your own skin? Blooming Oasis is a private practice that focuses on individual, couples, and LGBTQ+. We are located in Affton and Saint Louis area as well as telehealth therapy. We help by actively listening to your story and fostering a calm environment by providing a healthy model for boundaries and relationships. We help clients navigate through change and life events. We will take a person-centered integrated approach to help you gain healthy, effective coping skills and balance in your daily life.
LPC trained in EMDR, SIP and attachment-based therapy.
Are you struggling to feel accepted & comfortable in your own skin? Blooming Oasis is a private practice that focuses on individual, couples, and LGBTQ+. We are located in Affton and Saint Louis area as well as telehealth therapy. We help by actively listening to your story and fostering a calm environment by providing a healthy model for boundaries and relationships. We help clients navigate through change and life events. We will take a person-centered integrated approach to help you gain healthy, effective coping skills and balance in your daily life.
(636) 259-4904 View (636) 259-4904
Photo of Laila Merz, Psychologist in Missouri
Laila Merz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
(314) 485-4853 View (314) 485-4853
Photo of Julia Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Julia Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Clinical approaches: Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems.
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Clinical approaches: Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems.
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
(573) 763-4637 View (573) 763-4637
Photo of Anna Segovia Schild, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Anna Segovia Schild
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
I believe people are more than their diagnosis. Yes, a diagnosis is a tool but it is not the big picture. I come from a place of curiosity and wonder, wanting to know my clients on a deeper level so that I can help them navigate this world. For example, PTSD is a big diagnosis that is thrown around; yet, it doesn't paint the full picture. It doesn't reflect someone's experiences, triggers, how this is impacting their relationships, family history, the strengths they possess etc. Adolescents are my passion however, I also enjoy and work closely with families and adults.
I believe people are more than their diagnosis. Yes, a diagnosis is a tool but it is not the big picture. I come from a place of curiosity and wonder, wanting to know my clients on a deeper level so that I can help them navigate this world. For example, PTSD is a big diagnosis that is thrown around; yet, it doesn't paint the full picture. It doesn't reflect someone's experiences, triggers, how this is impacting their relationships, family history, the strengths they possess etc. Adolescents are my passion however, I also enjoy and work closely with families and adults.
(636) 249-1795 View (636) 249-1795
Photo of Jesse Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jesse Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Harrisonville, MO 64701
I am also trained in attachment-based play therapy which focuses on the child and caretaker relationship.
We all have strengths to build on and opportunities for growth and change. Counseling can be a helpful tool to work toward whatever goals you have or obstacles you may be facing. I am passionate about working with children and families. My goal is for children to feel confident in who they are and what they can do. I also work to build up families to grow closer and stronger together. I have seen how counseling can be a powerful tool in creating positive change for anyone.
I am also trained in attachment-based play therapy which focuses on the child and caretaker relationship.
We all have strengths to build on and opportunities for growth and change. Counseling can be a helpful tool to work toward whatever goals you have or obstacles you may be facing. I am passionate about working with children and families. My goal is for children to feel confident in who they are and what they can do. I also work to build up families to grow closer and stronger together. I have seen how counseling can be a powerful tool in creating positive change for anyone.
(816) 323-8570 View (816) 323-8570
Photo of Tyler Breshears, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Tyler Breshears
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64119  (Online Only)
I've provided therapy services for adults, teens, and children for over 8 years. I've found that the individuals who seem to flourish working with me are those who are particularly committed to understanding themselves and their struggles at a deeper level. I work to help facilitate meaningful insights and this often includes exploration of earlier relationships in a client's life. I believe that each person I work with is a unique and complex individual needing services tailored to them.
I've provided therapy services for adults, teens, and children for over 8 years. I've found that the individuals who seem to flourish working with me are those who are particularly committed to understanding themselves and their struggles at a deeper level. I work to help facilitate meaningful insights and this often includes exploration of earlier relationships in a client's life. I believe that each person I work with is a unique and complex individual needing services tailored to them.
(816) 992-5590 View (816) 992-5590
Photo of Kristen Ratican, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Kristen Ratican
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119  (Online Only)
I approach treatment through an attachment-based, trauma-informed, psychodynamic lens and collaborative framework, recognizing that you are the expert of your life experience.
We are wired to repeat deeply learned patterns that, at a certain point, no longer serve us. Whether it’s in your personal relationships, or your relationship with yourself, at times you may find yourself feeling stuck in a repetitive loop, with outcomes that feel undesirable or out of your control. Together we can identify and explore these patterns in order to define your goals and work towards meaningful growth.
I approach treatment through an attachment-based, trauma-informed, psychodynamic lens and collaborative framework, recognizing that you are the expert of your life experience.
We are wired to repeat deeply learned patterns that, at a certain point, no longer serve us. Whether it’s in your personal relationships, or your relationship with yourself, at times you may find yourself feeling stuck in a repetitive loop, with outcomes that feel undesirable or out of your control. Together we can identify and explore these patterns in order to define your goals and work towards meaningful growth.
(314) 912-4041 View (314) 912-4041
Photo of Sarah Yeo, Counselor in Missouri
Sarah Yeo
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
My main modalities are attachment-based approach; CBT and DBT methods; strength-based; client-centered; and interpersonal processing.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with adult clients in individual therapy. I have a special heart for working with individuals who struggle with boundary issues, codependency, self-esteem, and shame. I also work with survivors of emotional/narcissistic abuse; clients with adult ADHD; and those with relational/attachment trauma through abuse and neglect in their family of origin. I also have a passion for walking with individuals who are in their faith deconstruction journey or have experienced spiritual abuse. My clients are of all faith backgrounds but for those who are seeking it, I offer Christian counseling as well.
My main modalities are attachment-based approach; CBT and DBT methods; strength-based; client-centered; and interpersonal processing.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with adult clients in individual therapy. I have a special heart for working with individuals who struggle with boundary issues, codependency, self-esteem, and shame. I also work with survivors of emotional/narcissistic abuse; clients with adult ADHD; and those with relational/attachment trauma through abuse and neglect in their family of origin. I also have a passion for walking with individuals who are in their faith deconstruction journey or have experienced spiritual abuse. My clients are of all faith backgrounds but for those who are seeking it, I offer Christian counseling as well.
(724) 633-1309 View (724) 633-1309
Photo of Cheryl A Pendell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Cheryl A Pendell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC, CPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64118
I utilize an attachment-based perspective in my counseling approach.
There are many presenting issues that might bring you to counseling. Finding a therapist that you can connect with and build an alliance with is important to your success in therapy. I work very hard to create a relationship that will provide you the safety and warmth that you need to explore your experiences; I am very comfortable earning your trust. I use different treatment modalities, depending upon which is appropriate for you personally. Empathy is the primary tool used to give you the safety you need to explore your inner world while we begin to understand your experiences together.
I utilize an attachment-based perspective in my counseling approach.
There are many presenting issues that might bring you to counseling. Finding a therapist that you can connect with and build an alliance with is important to your success in therapy. I work very hard to create a relationship that will provide you the safety and warmth that you need to explore your experiences; I am very comfortable earning your trust. I use different treatment modalities, depending upon which is appropriate for you personally. Empathy is the primary tool used to give you the safety you need to explore your inner world while we begin to understand your experiences together.
(816) 987-7956 View (816) 987-7956
Photo of Rachel Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Rachel Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based, emotion-focused, client-focused therapy, and I incorporate body awareness, parts work, EMDR and psychosomatic approaches.
Life presents challenges that are difficult to face alone, and trusting someone to hold your thoughts and emotions as sacred takes courage. I consider it an honor to walk with you, side by side, through your journey of transformation, healing and restoration. I seek to connect the body and the brain to dig deeper, at your pace. Creating and being a safe, inviting, warm and connected space is a passion of mine. It is such a privilege to bear witness to people reclaiming themselves and finding freedom from trauma!
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based, emotion-focused, client-focused therapy, and I incorporate body awareness, parts work, EMDR and psychosomatic approaches.
Life presents challenges that are difficult to face alone, and trusting someone to hold your thoughts and emotions as sacred takes courage. I consider it an honor to walk with you, side by side, through your journey of transformation, healing and restoration. I seek to connect the body and the brain to dig deeper, at your pace. Creating and being a safe, inviting, warm and connected space is a passion of mine. It is such a privilege to bear witness to people reclaiming themselves and finding freedom from trauma!
(816) 323-3428 View (816) 323-3428
Photo of Cecily Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Cecily Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65807
Since 2012 I have been working with adolescents and young adults navigating various different struggles of their life. Together, with their families (when appropriate) we work to develop a plan and a path towards health and healing. It isn't always easy, in fact it’s often counterintuitive and confusing. Healing isn't linear, but what I can offer is a chance to communicate better, connect, and return your home to a peaceful place. Whether you are struggling with relationships, yourself, school or work, I am ready to help you navigate whatever it is that is going on in your mind, and move you towards a more meaningful life.
Since 2012 I have been working with adolescents and young adults navigating various different struggles of their life. Together, with their families (when appropriate) we work to develop a plan and a path towards health and healing. It isn't always easy, in fact it’s often counterintuitive and confusing. Healing isn't linear, but what I can offer is a chance to communicate better, connect, and return your home to a peaceful place. Whether you are struggling with relationships, yourself, school or work, I am ready to help you navigate whatever it is that is going on in your mind, and move you towards a more meaningful life.
(417) 739-0674 View (417) 739-0674
Photo of Stephanie Malzahn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Stephanie Malzahn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63124
I use a systems and developmental approach that integrates attachment-based, mindfulness and somatic practices.
Welcome! Do you feel misunderstood and undervalued? Are you looking for more meaningful connection? Anxiety, pain and relationship stress can show up in our bodies, our work ethic, our social interactions, sleep habits and so much more. What happens to us early in life influences our ability to cope with the stress and setbacks that life can throw at us. Whether it's a chronic health issue, recent or past trauma, grief, or an ongoing stressor, you don't have to experience it alone. I have an integrative and person-centered approach that uses the therapeutic relationship to build your sense of agency to get yourself unstuck.
I use a systems and developmental approach that integrates attachment-based, mindfulness and somatic practices.
Welcome! Do you feel misunderstood and undervalued? Are you looking for more meaningful connection? Anxiety, pain and relationship stress can show up in our bodies, our work ethic, our social interactions, sleep habits and so much more. What happens to us early in life influences our ability to cope with the stress and setbacks that life can throw at us. Whether it's a chronic health issue, recent or past trauma, grief, or an ongoing stressor, you don't have to experience it alone. I have an integrative and person-centered approach that uses the therapeutic relationship to build your sense of agency to get yourself unstuck.
(314) 886-5941 View (314) 886-5941
Photo of Jon Soileau, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jon Soileau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105
My approach to counseling and psychotherapy is rooted in relational psychoanalytic and attachment-based work, which provides a deeper understanding of how past experiences and the therapeutic interactions within the therapy room influence one's present life and relationships.
Knowing we can be loved exactly as we are gives us the best opportunity to grow into the healthiest people. I believe relational psychotherapy helps to restore hope and connection, even during seasons of immense pain and suffering. Having a place where you can be heard and feel known is essential while working through heavy feelings, emotions, thoughts, and processing difficult experiences. As therapy deepens, individuals I work with gain insight into presenting symptoms and patterns of behavior that initially brought them to see me.
My approach to counseling and psychotherapy is rooted in relational psychoanalytic and attachment-based work, which provides a deeper understanding of how past experiences and the therapeutic interactions within the therapy room influence one's present life and relationships.
Knowing we can be loved exactly as we are gives us the best opportunity to grow into the healthiest people. I believe relational psychotherapy helps to restore hope and connection, even during seasons of immense pain and suffering. Having a place where you can be heard and feel known is essential while working through heavy feelings, emotions, thoughts, and processing difficult experiences. As therapy deepens, individuals I work with gain insight into presenting symptoms and patterns of behavior that initially brought them to see me.
(816) 839-6276 View (816) 839-6276
Photo of Elizabeth Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Elizabeth Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
Feeling stuck, chaotic, overwhelmed, purposeless, anxious? Do you ever find yourself doing the same things over and over wishing you would have a different outcome? Do you feel consumed by your thoughts? Do you feel like you and your partner just don’t get each other? Often time asking for help and finding help is overwhelming. You want to make a change, make things better, but you don’t know how. You want to feel like you again - not to just keep surviving, but start living intentionally and passionately. You want the anxiety, the intrusive thoughts and the sleepless nights to end - to be present with yourself and your loved ones.
Feeling stuck, chaotic, overwhelmed, purposeless, anxious? Do you ever find yourself doing the same things over and over wishing you would have a different outcome? Do you feel consumed by your thoughts? Do you feel like you and your partner just don’t get each other? Often time asking for help and finding help is overwhelming. You want to make a change, make things better, but you don’t know how. You want to feel like you again - not to just keep surviving, but start living intentionally and passionately. You want the anxiety, the intrusive thoughts and the sleepless nights to end - to be present with yourself and your loved ones.
(816) 662-6127 View (816) 662-6127
Photo of Michelle Maguire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Michelle Maguire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63301
I will utilize attachment-based theories and techniques and other modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness strategies.
My name is Michelle Maguire, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. I believe trust, compassion and respect are essential for effective treatment. I will create a safe and non-judgmental space for healing and change. I studied at Kansas State University for my undergraduate degree in social work. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from the University of Missouri. I have been a practicing therapist since 2003. My clinical experience spans clients of all ages and backgrounds.
I will utilize attachment-based theories and techniques and other modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness strategies.
My name is Michelle Maguire, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. I believe trust, compassion and respect are essential for effective treatment. I will create a safe and non-judgmental space for healing and change. I studied at Kansas State University for my undergraduate degree in social work. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from the University of Missouri. I have been a practicing therapist since 2003. My clinical experience spans clients of all ages and backgrounds.
(636) 242-6123 View (636) 242-6123
Photo of Allie Lehr, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Allie Lehr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
I draw on attachment-based and emotionally focused interventions to support my clients in gaining self-awareness and addressing the root causes of their concerns.
Are you struggling with a relationship or relationships in your life, or maybe even struggling with the relationship with yourself? Do you feel disconnected, scared, and unsure of where to begin? Relationships are hard AND they are what make us human. I am passionate about helping my clients, whether they are individuals, families, or romantic partners, improve communication, increase connection, and overcome painful experiences that are preventing them from having and maintaining healthy relationships.
I draw on attachment-based and emotionally focused interventions to support my clients in gaining self-awareness and addressing the root causes of their concerns.
Are you struggling with a relationship or relationships in your life, or maybe even struggling with the relationship with yourself? Do you feel disconnected, scared, and unsure of where to begin? Relationships are hard AND they are what make us human. I am passionate about helping my clients, whether they are individuals, families, or romantic partners, improve communication, increase connection, and overcome painful experiences that are preventing them from having and maintaining healthy relationships.
(803) 879-4781 View (803) 879-4781
Photo of Briana West, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Briana West
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
I use an integrative approach combining EFT and AEDP techniques within an attachment-based framework.
>Accepting new clients< Finding a therapist with whom you can truly connect can feel like a scary, stressful undertaking. In our darkest moments, it is important that we find spaces where we can be seen, heard, and understood. I work with individuals, couples, and families facing a variety of challenges who wish to develop a healthy relationship with themselves and with others. I'm here to partner with you in making changes that will empower you to move forward and become your most authentic self. I am particularly committed to providing a compassionate space for clients of color.
I use an integrative approach combining EFT and AEDP techniques within an attachment-based framework.
>Accepting new clients< Finding a therapist with whom you can truly connect can feel like a scary, stressful undertaking. In our darkest moments, it is important that we find spaces where we can be seen, heard, and understood. I work with individuals, couples, and families facing a variety of challenges who wish to develop a healthy relationship with themselves and with others. I'm here to partner with you in making changes that will empower you to move forward and become your most authentic self. I am particularly committed to providing a compassionate space for clients of color.
(913) 347-4286 View (913) 347-4286
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.