Photo of Emily Viet, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Emily Viet
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64109
I offer a holistic, trauma-informed approach to therapy, change and healing that is informed by neuroscience, including: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, attachment-based, IFS/parts, Play Therapy, iRest, yoga.
Sometimes life is hard. We experience stress, difficult experiences, wounding in relationships, and trauma along with many other experiences. We carry these with us and they show up in our daily lives - in our thoughts, emotions, physical body, relationships with others, relationship with our self. Maybe you've noticed feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Weighed down. Maybe anxious. Maybe you've noticed patterns in your relationships. Maybe physical discomfort and pain. Tension in your body. Maybe you're curious about what you're noticing. Or maybe you’re curious about who YOU are – the authentic you.
I offer a holistic, trauma-informed approach to therapy, change and healing that is informed by neuroscience, including: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, attachment-based, IFS/parts, Play Therapy, iRest, yoga.
Sometimes life is hard. We experience stress, difficult experiences, wounding in relationships, and trauma along with many other experiences. We carry these with us and they show up in our daily lives - in our thoughts, emotions, physical body, relationships with others, relationship with our self. Maybe you've noticed feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Weighed down. Maybe anxious. Maybe you've noticed patterns in your relationships. Maybe physical discomfort and pain. Tension in your body. Maybe you're curious about what you're noticing. Or maybe you’re curious about who YOU are – the authentic you.
(816) 327-9194 View (816) 327-9194
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 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 Mimi Crisenberry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Mimi Crisenberry
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Liberty, MO 64068
As a relationship expert, I utilize neuroscience and attachment-based practices to help others like you transcend loneliness and create safe, healing, and empowering relationships.
Are you struggling with feelings of loneliness? Maybe even in the company of others? Do you question if something is inherently lacking within you, hindering your ability to forge the meaningful connections you yearn for, yet maybe also fear? Are you grappling with uncertainties about how to cultivate intimacy with your partner or how to initiate and nurture fulfilling relationships? Perhaps past hurts have left you hesitant to trust again, leaving you pondering if there's a way to discern who is worthy of your trust and affection. You deserve love, connection, and fulfillment, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
As a relationship expert, I utilize neuroscience and attachment-based practices to help others like you transcend loneliness and create safe, healing, and empowering relationships.
Are you struggling with feelings of loneliness? Maybe even in the company of others? Do you question if something is inherently lacking within you, hindering your ability to forge the meaningful connections you yearn for, yet maybe also fear? Are you grappling with uncertainties about how to cultivate intimacy with your partner or how to initiate and nurture fulfilling relationships? Perhaps past hurts have left you hesitant to trust again, leaving you pondering if there's a way to discern who is worthy of your trust and affection. You deserve love, connection, and fulfillment, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.
(816) 439-7551 View (816) 439-7551
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 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 Deborah Hansel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Deborah Hansel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
Has your relationship become a struggle? Are you confused about what is happening between you and your partner, wondering what to do about it? You want closeness and understanding, to feel happy in your marriage again. In these uncertain times, more couples than ever want to experience their relationship as a secure base, a safe haven from the storms of life. I use an emotion-focused, attachment-based couples therapy approach to restore hope by rebuilding a secure bond. Call or e-mail now for a free consultation.
Has your relationship become a struggle? Are you confused about what is happening between you and your partner, wondering what to do about it? You want closeness and understanding, to feel happy in your marriage again. In these uncertain times, more couples than ever want to experience their relationship as a secure base, a safe haven from the storms of life. I use an emotion-focused, attachment-based couples therapy approach to restore hope by rebuilding a secure bond. Call or e-mail now for a free consultation.
(417) 660-2685 View (417) 660-2685
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 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 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 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 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 Grace Griffin-Spain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Grace Griffin-Spain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106
I tailor my approach to the individual needs of each client and utilize a diverse array of counseling approaches, such as person-centered therapy, attachment-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I have seen both professionally and personally how transformative the therapeutic process can be when seeking change, growth, and healing. I focus on individuals and couples whose concerns may include anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship problems. My goal is to provide clients a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore and process their pain and help them reflect on how their experiences influence their perception of themselves, others, and the world. With empathy, understanding, acceptance, and encouragement, I work with clients on integrating changes so that they have the tools they need to live a happy and healthy life.
I tailor my approach to the individual needs of each client and utilize a diverse array of counseling approaches, such as person-centered therapy, attachment-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I have seen both professionally and personally how transformative the therapeutic process can be when seeking change, growth, and healing. I focus on individuals and couples whose concerns may include anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship problems. My goal is to provide clients a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore and process their pain and help them reflect on how their experiences influence their perception of themselves, others, and the world. With empathy, understanding, acceptance, and encouragement, I work with clients on integrating changes so that they have the tools they need to live a happy and healthy life.
(816) 355-6143 View (816) 355-6143
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
Photo of Claire Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Claire Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64113
Waitlist for new clients
Since 2015 Claire has been in private practice as a clinical therapist providing therapy to children (6 and up), adolescents, and adults of all ages. Her open nature and style of communication provide a dynamic in the therapist/client relationship which is often most important. Claire's clinical experience includes working with obstacles in life such as PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment-based concerns, ADHD, stress, grief & loss, and difficulties that accompany developmental diagnoses such as autism which can affect entire families.
Since 2015 Claire has been in private practice as a clinical therapist providing therapy to children (6 and up), adolescents, and adults of all ages. Her open nature and style of communication provide a dynamic in the therapist/client relationship which is often most important. Claire's clinical experience includes working with obstacles in life such as PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, attachment-based concerns, ADHD, stress, grief & loss, and difficulties that accompany developmental diagnoses such as autism which can affect entire families.
(913) 399-1796 View (913) 399-1796
Photo of Dawn Stillinger, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Missouri
Dawn Stillinger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC/KS, LPC/MO, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy approaches that I practice are person-centered, family systems, trauma-focused CBT, CBT, EMDR, play therapy, attachment-based interventions, mindfulness, art interventions and psychoeducation.
I currently have a 2-3 week wait to schedule an appointment. I am a creative and caring professional holding a master in counseling psychology degree and a certificate in child and adolescent counseling. With a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I treat the whole person with special emphasis on the effects of trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. With my previous work in the private sector and art community, I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals with creative challenges or career transitions and concerns.
The therapy approaches that I practice are person-centered, family systems, trauma-focused CBT, CBT, EMDR, play therapy, attachment-based interventions, mindfulness, art interventions and psychoeducation.
I currently have a 2-3 week wait to schedule an appointment. I am a creative and caring professional holding a master in counseling psychology degree and a certificate in child and adolescent counseling. With a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I treat the whole person with special emphasis on the effects of trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. With my previous work in the private sector and art community, I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals with creative challenges or career transitions and concerns.
(913) 728-4016 View (913) 728-4016
Photo of Beth Chapman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Beth Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Beth and I celebrate your courage and wisdom in searching for this site! I celebrate the individual's strengths in a nonjudgmental collaboration. The mind-body-heart connection, awareness, and trust are the foundation of therapy. The goal is always for your voice to be heard and from that voice to move forward towards your heart's calling. There is no one size fits all therapy.
Hello, my name is Beth and I celebrate your courage and wisdom in searching for this site! I celebrate the individual's strengths in a nonjudgmental collaboration. The mind-body-heart connection, awareness, and trust are the foundation of therapy. The goal is always for your voice to be heard and from that voice to move forward towards your heart's calling. There is no one size fits all therapy.
(833) 209-3773 View (833) 209-3773
Photo of Sharon Cantrell-Brush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Sharon Cantrell-Brush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
The core of my practice is assisting individuals and families to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with success and purpose. To provide guidance on supporting those with mental health symptoms, behavioral and emotional disorders and trauma to be able to thrive. To help identify negative communication patterns and strengthen communication with others. I provide an assortment of parenting ideas to help families live together with a better understanding and appreciation of each other. I draw from Dr. Garry Landreth, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Dr. Fay & Dr. Cline, Love & Logic, and Dr. Phelan with 1-2-3 Magic.
The core of my practice is assisting individuals and families to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with success and purpose. To provide guidance on supporting those with mental health symptoms, behavioral and emotional disorders and trauma to be able to thrive. To help identify negative communication patterns and strengthen communication with others. I provide an assortment of parenting ideas to help families live together with a better understanding and appreciation of each other. I draw from Dr. Garry Landreth, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Dr. Fay & Dr. Cline, Love & Logic, and Dr. Phelan with 1-2-3 Magic.
(573) 919-0785 View (573) 919-0785
Photo of Gabi Goldstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Gabi Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64109  (Online Only)
Gabi Goldstein is board-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas and holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. With a career spanning since 2017, Gabi has demonstrated her expertise by providing mental health treatment across diverse settings, including acute-care facilities, residential placement, outpatient services, and private practice. Gabi is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and has prior experience serving as Clinical Director of a Mental Health Agency.
Gabi Goldstein is board-certified Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas and holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. With a career spanning since 2017, Gabi has demonstrated her expertise by providing mental health treatment across diverse settings, including acute-care facilities, residential placement, outpatient services, and private practice. Gabi is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and has prior experience serving as Clinical Director of a Mental Health Agency.
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Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.