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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Jeanna Knight PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jeanna Knight PhD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
A medical diagnosis can be life altering. Do you want to be heard, understood, and supported as you try to make sense of this part of your life? Seeing an experienced and empathic therapist can provide a positive transformation that's refreshing and liberating!
A medical diagnosis can be life altering. Do you want to be heard, understood, and supported as you try to make sense of this part of your life? Seeing an experienced and empathic therapist can provide a positive transformation that's refreshing and liberating!
(314) 943-2399 View (314) 943-2399
Photo of Kelly Goetzler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Kelly Goetzler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111
Hi, I’m Kelly! As a self-proclaimed Master of Self-Denial by way of comedic timing, I am well rehearsed in the subtle art of avoiding discomfort. I have learned that the only way out from under a pile of shit is to go through it. I never cease to be amazed by the tales of courage I hear out of devastating stories. I look for the power and capability found in perceived weakness, while breathing new life into established strengths. You are brave, beautiful, & worthy!
Hi, I’m Kelly! As a self-proclaimed Master of Self-Denial by way of comedic timing, I am well rehearsed in the subtle art of avoiding discomfort. I have learned that the only way out from under a pile of shit is to go through it. I never cease to be amazed by the tales of courage I hear out of devastating stories. I look for the power and capability found in perceived weakness, while breathing new life into established strengths. You are brave, beautiful, & worthy!
(816) 793-6831 View (816) 793-6831
Photo of Kimberly J Bell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Kimberly J Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
The decision to see a counselor may be intimidating or overwhelming. Sometimes we need to seek help outside family and friends. It is not easy to walk through the door and talk to a complete stranger. I want you to know, I have been where you are right now, and I hope you will reach out. I work with individuals who struggle with abandonment/trauma/abuse. I also work with couples who struggle with communication/infidelity/trust/conflict resolution. Investing in yourself and your relationships will be the most important investment of your lifetime.
The decision to see a counselor may be intimidating or overwhelming. Sometimes we need to seek help outside family and friends. It is not easy to walk through the door and talk to a complete stranger. I want you to know, I have been where you are right now, and I hope you will reach out. I work with individuals who struggle with abandonment/trauma/abuse. I also work with couples who struggle with communication/infidelity/trust/conflict resolution. Investing in yourself and your relationships will be the most important investment of your lifetime.
(816) 290-6258 View (816) 290-6258
Photo of Susan Zimmerling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Susan Zimmerling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Hi! I'm Susan. I am a licensed professional counselor providing caring therapy for kids and adults. I have experience working with clients that are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, grief, and PTSD as well as complex trauma and parenting related issues. I take a relationship focused, developmentally sensitive, and trauma informed approach to counseling. I am TF-CBT certified and trained in play therapy, PCIT, and EMDR.
Hi! I'm Susan. I am a licensed professional counselor providing caring therapy for kids and adults. I have experience working with clients that are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, grief, and PTSD as well as complex trauma and parenting related issues. I take a relationship focused, developmentally sensitive, and trauma informed approach to counseling. I am TF-CBT certified and trained in play therapy, PCIT, and EMDR.
(636) 330-1755 View (636) 330-1755
Photo of Carol Love, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Carol Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I specialize in working with families who have had, or are going through a divorce or parental separation. Chronic conflict will have a lasting negative effect on you and your children BUT if you are able to manage your emotions and parent successfully, you and your children can thrive in the future. It is important to develop a good coparenting relationship and make sure your children have the support they need to deal with divorce/separation issues. In order to facilitate a positive outcome for families, I provide Coparent Counseling, Family Therapy, Reunification Therapy Group and Individual Therapy (adult and child).
I specialize in working with families who have had, or are going through a divorce or parental separation. Chronic conflict will have a lasting negative effect on you and your children BUT if you are able to manage your emotions and parent successfully, you and your children can thrive in the future. It is important to develop a good coparenting relationship and make sure your children have the support they need to deal with divorce/separation issues. In order to facilitate a positive outcome for families, I provide Coparent Counseling, Family Therapy, Reunification Therapy Group and Individual Therapy (adult and child).
(314) 665-2301 View (314) 665-2301
Photo of Wendy Hawkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Wendy Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64082
I believe we all have the right to our own belief systems but often times sharing those with someone who is a complete stranger can be intimidating. I offer you a safe space to be YOU. I am a spiritual being that is open to embracing dialogue around non-traditional ways of thinking and believing. Because the client-therapist is an important relationship, my goal is to provide a high-quality service to you that includes quick and responsive communication as well as a huge library of resources to give you the tools you need for an action based and humanistic therapy process. I enjoy working with women and couples!
I believe we all have the right to our own belief systems but often times sharing those with someone who is a complete stranger can be intimidating. I offer you a safe space to be YOU. I am a spiritual being that is open to embracing dialogue around non-traditional ways of thinking and believing. Because the client-therapist is an important relationship, my goal is to provide a high-quality service to you that includes quick and responsive communication as well as a huge library of resources to give you the tools you need for an action based and humanistic therapy process. I enjoy working with women and couples!
(816) 800-9203 View (816) 800-9203
Photo of Jillayna Adamson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jillayna Adamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, feel stuck within the cycles of depression or anxiety, or are seeking greater fulfilment and authenticity in your life, therapy can empower you with tools, support and a confiding, trusting relationship. I truly believe that a therapeutic relationship created with the purpose of self-healing is a necessary and powerful framework from which a person can transform their lives. I believe in therapy, and I love what I do! I specialize in working with women and mothers, not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, the motherhood identity, parenting, relationships, sexuality, and life changes. I also specialize in working with teens that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and identity, including LGBTQIA and questioning/curious youth.
Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, feel stuck within the cycles of depression or anxiety, or are seeking greater fulfilment and authenticity in your life, therapy can empower you with tools, support and a confiding, trusting relationship. I truly believe that a therapeutic relationship created with the purpose of self-healing is a necessary and powerful framework from which a person can transform their lives. I believe in therapy, and I love what I do! I specialize in working with women and mothers, not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, the motherhood identity, parenting, relationships, sexuality, and life changes. I also specialize in working with teens that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and identity, including LGBTQIA and questioning/curious youth.
(314) 789-7507 View (314) 789-7507
Photo of Daylin Rodriguez Cesar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Daylin Rodriguez Cesar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, PhDc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050  (Online Only)
He sido una sicoterapeuta bilingue por 12 años enfocada en tratar trauma y evaluaciones sicológicas para emigración. Les proveo un ambiente confidencial y muy cómodo a mis participantes. Es un gran privilegio guiarlos en su andar de sanidad y paz. Me especializo en sicología infantil, EMDR, y hipnosis clínica. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a parejas, procesos de separación, trauma, niñas/niños, y a la comunidad LGBTQ+. I am a caring bilingual counselor with experience in working with people of races and genders. My mission is to be your companion on this therapeutic journey in a comfortable and confidential environment.
He sido una sicoterapeuta bilingue por 12 años enfocada en tratar trauma y evaluaciones sicológicas para emigración. Les proveo un ambiente confidencial y muy cómodo a mis participantes. Es un gran privilegio guiarlos en su andar de sanidad y paz. Me especializo en sicología infantil, EMDR, y hipnosis clínica. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a parejas, procesos de separación, trauma, niñas/niños, y a la comunidad LGBTQ+. I am a caring bilingual counselor with experience in working with people of races and genders. My mission is to be your companion on this therapeutic journey in a comfortable and confidential environment.
(913) 884-1812 View (913) 884-1812
Photo of Hannah Miller, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Hannah Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I believe healing happens when we are reoriented toward what is truly good for us and entertain the possibility of more of it. You've learned ways to get by in life, and you pull it off well, maybe even perfectly. But along the way, you've picked up burdens you can't seem to set down. You're overwhelmed, and some days you aren't sure who you are anymore. There is a small part of you that wonders if maybe there's something more for your life, or if maybe there's a way forward that doesn't feel so hard.
I believe healing happens when we are reoriented toward what is truly good for us and entertain the possibility of more of it. You've learned ways to get by in life, and you pull it off well, maybe even perfectly. But along the way, you've picked up burdens you can't seem to set down. You're overwhelmed, and some days you aren't sure who you are anymore. There is a small part of you that wonders if maybe there's something more for your life, or if maybe there's a way forward that doesn't feel so hard.
(314) 804-3495 View (314) 804-3495
Photo of Misty M Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Misty M Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Neosho, MO 64850
My focus is on helping clients in the healing process. I address issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, marital discord, relationship conflict, trauma, grief, abuse, child conduct issues and a many other emotional, behavioral, social and family issues. I would be honored to work with anyone who is experiencing difficulty in life and help them learn and develop different ways to cope and resolve their emotional pain. One of the unique therapeutic interventions I use is Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT). AAT is designed to promote improvement in physical, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning.
My focus is on helping clients in the healing process. I address issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, marital discord, relationship conflict, trauma, grief, abuse, child conduct issues and a many other emotional, behavioral, social and family issues. I would be honored to work with anyone who is experiencing difficulty in life and help them learn and develop different ways to cope and resolve their emotional pain. One of the unique therapeutic interventions I use is Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT). AAT is designed to promote improvement in physical, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning.
(417) 658-4966 View (417) 658-4966
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.