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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Alyssa Castaño-Mann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Alyssa Castaño-Mann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Olivette, MO 63132
Waitlist for new clients
I work with the healers and helpers who not only have seen the worst in their work, but also have a personal history of trauma. So many in the healing and helping professions have painful backgrounds that have fueled their fire to care for others. Healers experience some of the worst and most rampant burnout which can stem from a number of places including vicarious trauma and having past traumas triggered by clients, systems, and the overall work. Move from an inner place of fear, imposter syndrome and co-dependency to a place of inner security.
I work with the healers and helpers who not only have seen the worst in their work, but also have a personal history of trauma. So many in the healing and helping professions have painful backgrounds that have fueled their fire to care for others. Healers experience some of the worst and most rampant burnout which can stem from a number of places including vicarious trauma and having past traumas triggered by clients, systems, and the overall work. Move from an inner place of fear, imposter syndrome and co-dependency to a place of inner security.
(844) 586-0117 View (844) 586-0117
Photo of Kate Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Kate Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MO 63143  (Online Only)
You have made the brave decision to seek support and you are worth it. Meeting with a therapist can be intimidating; it requires strength and vulnerability. We are imperfectly human and we deserve to work towards honest self-acceptance, empowerment, and esteem in a safe place. Anxiety, codependence, depression, grief, isolation, and feelings of powerlessness can leave us exhausted and at a loss for answers. It can be easy to forget that we deserve "to be loved, and to feel worthwhile" (W. Glasser). I invite you to remember that when experiencing stress. It would be an honor to be witness to the growth of your self love.
You have made the brave decision to seek support and you are worth it. Meeting with a therapist can be intimidating; it requires strength and vulnerability. We are imperfectly human and we deserve to work towards honest self-acceptance, empowerment, and esteem in a safe place. Anxiety, codependence, depression, grief, isolation, and feelings of powerlessness can leave us exhausted and at a loss for answers. It can be easy to forget that we deserve "to be loved, and to feel worthwhile" (W. Glasser). I invite you to remember that when experiencing stress. It would be an honor to be witness to the growth of your self love.
(314) 643-9712 View (314) 643-9712
Photo of Nicole R. Kruger, Psychologist in Missouri
Nicole R. Kruger
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Ellisville, MO 63011
Hi. I am a licensed doctoral level psychologist. A “good fit" between the therapist and client is the launching pad for making long-lasting change. Having someone who can provide an objective, supportive, and non-judgmental environment is helpful when life gets challenging! For the past 20+ years, I have treated tweens and teens, adults, and parents using insight, cognitive behavioral, and trauma informed approaches. Whether it's a relationship issue or a family transition (e.g., career change, college bound, new baby, divorce, etc), I help clients to determine goals and the steps needed to attain them.
Hi. I am a licensed doctoral level psychologist. A “good fit" between the therapist and client is the launching pad for making long-lasting change. Having someone who can provide an objective, supportive, and non-judgmental environment is helpful when life gets challenging! For the past 20+ years, I have treated tweens and teens, adults, and parents using insight, cognitive behavioral, and trauma informed approaches. Whether it's a relationship issue or a family transition (e.g., career change, college bound, new baby, divorce, etc), I help clients to determine goals and the steps needed to attain them.
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Photo of Natashia Symes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Natashia Symes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64082  (Online Only)
I’m committed to helping clients develop healthier relationships with themselves and others. I work with adult women(18yrs+)and adolescent girls(15yrs+)in individual therapy on issues relating to relationships, life transitions, co-dependency, self-awareness/worth, grief, anxiety, stress, chronic illness, pre-pregnancy/pregnancy, parenting, mid-life and therapy as self-care. I also offer parenting sessions focused on education and guidance in problem solving issues with children of all ages. I offer telehealth sessions across the state of Missouri.
I’m committed to helping clients develop healthier relationships with themselves and others. I work with adult women(18yrs+)and adolescent girls(15yrs+)in individual therapy on issues relating to relationships, life transitions, co-dependency, self-awareness/worth, grief, anxiety, stress, chronic illness, pre-pregnancy/pregnancy, parenting, mid-life and therapy as self-care. I also offer parenting sessions focused on education and guidance in problem solving issues with children of all ages. I offer telehealth sessions across the state of Missouri.
(816) 307-0782 View (816) 307-0782
Photo of Moira Killoran in Missouri
Moira Killoran
PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I work with clients seeking deep and transformative healing. Together, we hold space to witness your inner world with curiosity and compassion to guide the once disconnected parts of you back to your self. Through this work, we support your system in releasing the burdens you have carried to reinstate a sense of wholeness and knowing. I am trans and queer affirming, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressionist.
I work with clients seeking deep and transformative healing. Together, we hold space to witness your inner world with curiosity and compassion to guide the once disconnected parts of you back to your self. Through this work, we support your system in releasing the burdens you have carried to reinstate a sense of wholeness and knowing. I am trans and queer affirming, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressionist.
(314) 461-1748 View (314) 461-1748
Photo of Jessica Horine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jessica Horine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
Suffering, while valuable, doesn’t have to define you or your story. If you’re wanting to move beyond old hurts, or feeling stuck despite desiring change, together we can re-author your story to include healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and being. In addition to my office in Brookside, KCMO, I also offer sessions via Telehealth for those who are unable to leave home or feel it is a better fit.
Suffering, while valuable, doesn’t have to define you or your story. If you’re wanting to move beyond old hurts, or feeling stuck despite desiring change, together we can re-author your story to include healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and being. In addition to my office in Brookside, KCMO, I also offer sessions via Telehealth for those who are unable to leave home or feel it is a better fit.
(816) 306-0228 View (816) 306-0228
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.