Therapists in Howard County, MO

Photo of Machaela Rausch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
Machaela Rausch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayette, MO 65248  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging at all stages! In my work with late teens to adults, I have found a common denominator: they have all the potential within themselves to be who they want to be, but got lost along the way. I work with you to fight the urge to be perfect and do everything "right." Do you want to feel confident in your job? What direction to go in your sport? Decide if this relationship is right for you? Want to feel comfortable and confident in your body? Improve your relationship with food? Process trauma related to an eating disorder or relationship? If you're in one of these stages, we might be a good fit!
Life can be challenging at all stages! In my work with late teens to adults, I have found a common denominator: they have all the potential within themselves to be who they want to be, but got lost along the way. I work with you to fight the urge to be perfect and do everything "right." Do you want to feel confident in your job? What direction to go in your sport? Decide if this relationship is right for you? Want to feel comfortable and confident in your body? Improve your relationship with food? Process trauma related to an eating disorder or relationship? If you're in one of these stages, we might be a good fit!
(660) 312-0992 View (660) 312-0992
Photo of Mia K Snyder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
Mia K Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
New Franklin, MO 65274
Relationships are central to our core being. Our pain, agony, and joy is embedded in our relationships. Therapy is the navigation of relationships. Whether it is the lack of support from our parents or our partners, unresolved trauma or PTSD, persistent anxiety or depression, or the desire to live more authentically with those closest to us, embarking on a path toward healing is a courageous first step. As you begin on this path, you will learn to communicate more authentically, feel more centered, and develop multiple ways of dealing with life’s challenges.
Relationships are central to our core being. Our pain, agony, and joy is embedded in our relationships. Therapy is the navigation of relationships. Whether it is the lack of support from our parents or our partners, unresolved trauma or PTSD, persistent anxiety or depression, or the desire to live more authentically with those closest to us, embarking on a path toward healing is a courageous first step. As you begin on this path, you will learn to communicate more authentically, feel more centered, and develop multiple ways of dealing with life’s challenges.
(573) 745-4037 View (573) 745-4037

Online Therapists

Photo of Jesse Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
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 Cheryl A Pendell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
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 Sabra Sherrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
Sabra Sherrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64102
I employ techniques based in experiential, attachment-based theories along with psychodynamic work to maximize your therapy experience.
You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or carrying the weight of abuse and trama through life. Issues like these weigh you down as you continue to fulfill your roles at work, at home, and in your relationships. These struggles may be new to you, or you may have carried them alone for years. Perhaps you've even reached out for help but not yet found the right fit, yet you long to break through these challenges and feel like yourself again.
I employ techniques based in experiential, attachment-based theories along with psychodynamic work to maximize your therapy experience.
You may be struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or carrying the weight of abuse and trama through life. Issues like these weigh you down as you continue to fulfill your roles at work, at home, and in your relationships. These struggles may be new to you, or you may have carried them alone for years. Perhaps you've even reached out for help but not yet found the right fit, yet you long to break through these challenges and feel like yourself again.
(816) 253-8086 View (816) 253-8086
Photo of Elizabeth Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Howard County, MO
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 Jon Soileau, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
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 Howard County, MO
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 Julia Lee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
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 Mimi Crisenberry, Pre-Licensed Professional in Howard County, MO
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 Emily Viet, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
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 Grace Griffin-Spain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
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 Rachel Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
Rachel Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based, emotion-focused, client-focused therapy, and I incorporate body awareness, parts work, EMDR and psychosomatic approaches.
Life presents challenges that are difficult to face alone, and trusting someone to hold your thoughts and emotions as sacred takes courage. I consider it an honor to walk with you, side by side, through your journey of transformation, healing and restoration. I seek to connect the body and the brain to dig deeper, at your pace. Creating and being a safe, inviting, warm and connected space is a passion of mine. It is such a privilege to bear witness to people reclaiming themselves and finding freedom from trauma!
I use trauma-informed, attachment-based, emotion-focused, client-focused therapy, and I incorporate body awareness, parts work, EMDR and psychosomatic approaches.
Life presents challenges that are difficult to face alone, and trusting someone to hold your thoughts and emotions as sacred takes courage. I consider it an honor to walk with you, side by side, through your journey of transformation, healing and restoration. I seek to connect the body and the brain to dig deeper, at your pace. Creating and being a safe, inviting, warm and connected space is a passion of mine. It is such a privilege to bear witness to people reclaiming themselves and finding freedom from trauma!
(816) 323-3428 View (816) 323-3428
Photo of Merri Copeland-Cook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
Merri Copeland-Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201  (Online Only)
Ready for a change? Trust me, I get it... Life is not always easy and never seems to go the way you planned. Not to mention, taking care of your mental health can be difficult for so many reasons. Maybe you have been stuck for a long time and are afraid to ask for help. Maybe you have a full plate dealing with all of life's responsibilities, with not enough time in the day. Or maybe you just don’t know where to start. Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone! Let’s talk about it and figure this thing out together.
Ready for a change? Trust me, I get it... Life is not always easy and never seems to go the way you planned. Not to mention, taking care of your mental health can be difficult for so many reasons. Maybe you have been stuck for a long time and are afraid to ask for help. Maybe you have a full plate dealing with all of life's responsibilities, with not enough time in the day. Or maybe you just don’t know where to start. Take comfort in knowing that you are not alone! Let’s talk about it and figure this thing out together.
(573) 464-3617 View (573) 464-3617
Photo of Karmen Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
Karmen Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Carrollton, MO 64633  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself overthinking everyday life occurrences? Do you feel like stress and worry are taking over areas of your life that you used to enjoy? Do you find relationships difficult to navigate? Did something happen to you and now you feel like you can't move forward? What if I told you that you don't have to stay stuck, that I can help you navigate those waves that are making you feel like you are sinking...I can help you. The first step is reaching out, you are well on your way!
Do you find yourself overthinking everyday life occurrences? Do you feel like stress and worry are taking over areas of your life that you used to enjoy? Do you find relationships difficult to navigate? Did something happen to you and now you feel like you can't move forward? What if I told you that you don't have to stay stuck, that I can help you navigate those waves that are making you feel like you are sinking...I can help you. The first step is reaching out, you are well on your way!
(660) 202-6704 View (660) 202-6704
Photo of Radical Empowerment Services , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Howard County, MO
Radical Empowerment Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64086
The ideal client is everyone as mental wellness is for everyone. Those who seek a radical approach to empowerment in strengthening their ability to develop boundaries, expectations, values, relationships, authenticity, attachment and healing will become closer to the goal of value based living and healing.
The ideal client is everyone as mental wellness is for everyone. Those who seek a radical approach to empowerment in strengthening their ability to develop boundaries, expectations, values, relationships, authenticity, attachment and healing will become closer to the goal of value based living and healing.
(816) 323-5360 View (816) 323-5360
Photo of Whitney Davison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Howard County, MO
Whitney Davison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64131
I am a specialist who works with adults and teens ages 14+ on intense anxiety, trauma and complex trauma, dissociation, and personality disorders. My clients come in saying they feel numb and irritable or outright angry at the world. Many wonder if they have ADHD or are on the spectrum. On their worst days, they feel like they are in constant fight or flight mode and teetering on collapse. They want to be able to authentically connect with others and to feel peace and contentment, but are not sure how. Most importantly, my clients want to solve their problems, stop repetitive patterns, and move on with with their lives.
I am a specialist who works with adults and teens ages 14+ on intense anxiety, trauma and complex trauma, dissociation, and personality disorders. My clients come in saying they feel numb and irritable or outright angry at the world. Many wonder if they have ADHD or are on the spectrum. On their worst days, they feel like they are in constant fight or flight mode and teetering on collapse. They want to be able to authentically connect with others and to feel peace and contentment, but are not sure how. Most importantly, my clients want to solve their problems, stop repetitive patterns, and move on with with their lives.
(816) 317-0713 View (816) 317-0713
Photo of Brandon Browning, Pre-Licensed Professional in Howard County, MO
Brandon Browning
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, S-MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
I firmly believe that everyone has within them what they need to overcome their problems, achieve their goals, and improve their lives. Sometimes, we just need some support to help us figure out who we are and what is important to us to bring about change. I strive to be a warm and caring therapist who will meet you with authenticity and “realness.” I work to strike a balance between curiosity, compassion, and challenge to establish a safe space for you to honestly explore yourself and your struggles, sit with unpleasant feelings, and develop trust in your ability to make decisions consistent with your values.
I firmly believe that everyone has within them what they need to overcome their problems, achieve their goals, and improve their lives. Sometimes, we just need some support to help us figure out who we are and what is important to us to bring about change. I strive to be a warm and caring therapist who will meet you with authenticity and “realness.” I work to strike a balance between curiosity, compassion, and challenge to establish a safe space for you to honestly explore yourself and your struggles, sit with unpleasant feelings, and develop trust in your ability to make decisions consistent with your values.
(816) 327-2605 View (816) 327-2605
Photo of Open Arms Wellness - Columbia, MO, Licensed Professional Counselor in Howard County, MO
Open Arms Wellness - Columbia, MO
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each specialty in the greater St. Louis area and we have immediate openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals. Locations: Ballwin, Central West End, Brentwood and Columbia, Missouri.
Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back? We pride ourselves in finding expert clinicians in each specialty in the greater St. Louis area and we have immediate openings. We can help match you to a clinician that has proven success helping clients with similar issues. Our approach assists clients in exploring the source of their problems. We listen. We find unique strategies that build on your passions to bring healing to your life. You won't believe how much better it can get when you work with our handpicked professionals. Locations: Ballwin, Central West End, Brentwood and Columbia, Missouri.
(573) 284-2893 View (573) 284-2893
Photo of Kimberly Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Howard County, MO
Kimberly Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
Now accepting new clients! I'm Kimberly and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in Downtown Lee's Summit. I work with teens (17+), individual adults, and couples. I often work with clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety, difficult relationship dynamics, grief & loss, stress & burnout, or life transitions such as high school seniors, college students, young professionals, pre-marital couples, expecting and new parents. I am trained in EMDR, which may be helpful in healing from trauma and other experiences that have been difficult to move past.
Now accepting new clients! I'm Kimberly and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist located in Downtown Lee's Summit. I work with teens (17+), individual adults, and couples. I often work with clients that are struggling with depression, anxiety, difficult relationship dynamics, grief & loss, stress & burnout, or life transitions such as high school seniors, college students, young professionals, pre-marital couples, expecting and new parents. I am trained in EMDR, which may be helpful in healing from trauma and other experiences that have been difficult to move past.
(816) 239-3694 View (816) 239-3694

See more therapy options for Howard County

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.