Photo of Dr. Brad Stevens, Psychologist in New York
Dr. Brad Stevens
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10021  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. I am passionate about providing relationally-oriented, evidence-based care to adults and adolescents. As an integrative psychotherapist, I draw from cognitive-behavioral, experiential, and attachment-based approaches to help individuals who are struggling with emotional pain to live rich and meaningful lives. Through close collaboration with me, my clients cultivate new ways of being both with themselves and others.
Welcome! I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience. I am passionate about providing relationally-oriented, evidence-based care to adults and adolescents. As an integrative psychotherapist, I draw from cognitive-behavioral, experiential, and attachment-based approaches to help individuals who are struggling with emotional pain to live rich and meaningful lives. Through close collaboration with me, my clients cultivate new ways of being both with themselves and others.
(347) 244-7549 View (347) 244-7549
Photo of Michelle Pinales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Michelle Pinales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10040
I offer specialized, holistic therapy, drawing from CBT, attachment-based, and other approaches.
My ideal client is someone who grapples with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma, and seeks to overcome these challenges to lead a more fulfilling life. They require a therapeutic space that is safe and non-judgmental, where they can explore their feelings and experiences. Their goals include reducing symptoms, healing from past traumas, improving self-esteem, and enhancing their relationships. Ultimately, they want to regain control over their mental and emotional well-being and find a sense of purpose and contentment in their lives, free from the constraints of their mental health issues.
I offer specialized, holistic therapy, drawing from CBT, attachment-based, and other approaches.
My ideal client is someone who grapples with a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma, and seeks to overcome these challenges to lead a more fulfilling life. They require a therapeutic space that is safe and non-judgmental, where they can explore their feelings and experiences. Their goals include reducing symptoms, healing from past traumas, improving self-esteem, and enhancing their relationships. Ultimately, they want to regain control over their mental and emotional well-being and find a sense of purpose and contentment in their lives, free from the constraints of their mental health issues.
(646) 699-3655 View (646) 699-3655
Photo of Rachel Valencia, Counselor in New York
Rachel Valencia
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients via telehealth! Struggling with your mental health can be difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether it be depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help you understand where your issues have stemmed from, work on healing them, and learn new ways to cope and interact with your world. In working with me, you can expect to have a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your innerworld. I work with clients of all ages, and in individual, couple, or family modality.
Accepting new clients via telehealth! Struggling with your mental health can be difficult, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether it be depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, or other mental health issues, I am here to help you understand where your issues have stemmed from, work on healing them, and learn new ways to cope and interact with your world. In working with me, you can expect to have a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your innerworld. I work with clients of all ages, and in individual, couple, or family modality.
(929) 294-8449 View (929) 294-8449
Photo of Dr. Gina DePalo, Psychologist in New York
Dr. Gina DePalo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211  (Online Only)
Therapy is a noble, intimate, and sometimes messy undertaking. Those who come to it may hope to relieve emotional pain, expand their understanding of themselves and their life narrative, or access more moments of joy and presence. Together, we can help you move towards what you might otherwise shy away from, understand the source of challenges, and find new ways of coping and being in the world. I work from a psychodynamic, attachment-based framework, and blend tangible skills to help alleviate your pain in the day-to-day and enhance your relationships.
Therapy is a noble, intimate, and sometimes messy undertaking. Those who come to it may hope to relieve emotional pain, expand their understanding of themselves and their life narrative, or access more moments of joy and presence. Together, we can help you move towards what you might otherwise shy away from, understand the source of challenges, and find new ways of coping and being in the world. I work from a psychodynamic, attachment-based framework, and blend tangible skills to help alleviate your pain in the day-to-day and enhance your relationships.
(347) 970-6907 View (347) 970-6907
Photo of Jessica Hilliard, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York
Jessica Hilliard
Licensed Master Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10603  (Online Only)
Through attachment-based and psychodynamic approaches, we will work to create resilient relationships that emphasize open, assertive communication.
After years as a performing artist and opera singer, I recognized that creativity, play, and being known are integral to our sense of well-being. I discovered my passion for supporting people through creativity and talk therapy to pursue fulfilling and meaningful lives. I strive to create a warm, nurturing environment to process your experiences and identify your strengths and values. I work with adolescents through late adulthood with a wide range of diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related, OCD, neurodivergent, and personality disorders.
Through attachment-based and psychodynamic approaches, we will work to create resilient relationships that emphasize open, assertive communication.
After years as a performing artist and opera singer, I recognized that creativity, play, and being known are integral to our sense of well-being. I discovered my passion for supporting people through creativity and talk therapy to pursue fulfilling and meaningful lives. I strive to create a warm, nurturing environment to process your experiences and identify your strengths and values. I work with adolescents through late adulthood with a wide range of diagnoses, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related, OCD, neurodivergent, and personality disorders.
(914) 556-1977 View (914) 556-1977
Photo of Sarah Randall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Sarah Randall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Babylon, NY 11702
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore life’s many challenges. I work from a non-judgemental, affirming, collaborative, trauma-informed, and attachment based lens. I have experience working with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, love addiction, co-dependency, personality disorders, relationship issues, survivors of abusive relationships/trauma bonds, anger, low self-esteem, grief, ADHD, PTSD, and complex PTSD. I believe everyone is unique...therefore, my style is to customize the therapeutic process for each individual.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to explore life’s many challenges. I work from a non-judgemental, affirming, collaborative, trauma-informed, and attachment based lens. I have experience working with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, love addiction, co-dependency, personality disorders, relationship issues, survivors of abusive relationships/trauma bonds, anger, low self-esteem, grief, ADHD, PTSD, and complex PTSD. I believe everyone is unique...therefore, my style is to customize the therapeutic process for each individual.
(631) 658-5720 View (631) 658-5720
Photo of Felicia Prince, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Felicia Prince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, BSP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
My eclectic approach combines psychodynamic, attachment-based approach, Yoga/Meditation, IFS, and Brainspotting to help clients begin to get to the roots of the blockage.
Are you on the journey to find your "SELF?" Are you have difficulty feeling connected, confident, curious, compassionate, calm, courageous, or clear about your next steps? If you answered "yes" you are in the right place. I provide holistic anti-racist & racially affirming therapy for high-achieving BIPOC professionals that centers social justice and decolonization. I support BIPOC folks process racial, intergenerational, and systematic trauma to REVIVE and LIBERATE themselves to show up whole, vulnerable, unapologetic & with love in all aspects of their life. Get ready to shine your light and be attuned to your inner "Self!"
My eclectic approach combines psychodynamic, attachment-based approach, Yoga/Meditation, IFS, and Brainspotting to help clients begin to get to the roots of the blockage.
Are you on the journey to find your "SELF?" Are you have difficulty feeling connected, confident, curious, compassionate, calm, courageous, or clear about your next steps? If you answered "yes" you are in the right place. I provide holistic anti-racist & racially affirming therapy for high-achieving BIPOC professionals that centers social justice and decolonization. I support BIPOC folks process racial, intergenerational, and systematic trauma to REVIVE and LIBERATE themselves to show up whole, vulnerable, unapologetic & with love in all aspects of their life. Get ready to shine your light and be attuned to your inner "Self!"
(929) 299-2174 View (929) 299-2174
Photo of Katherine Orobona, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York
Katherine Orobona
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Farmingdale, NY 11735
Our childhood, history, and personal myths about ourselves are powerful forces that have the ability to shape our interpersonal relationships and behaviors; worldview and ourselves. At some point, we all have experiences, challenges or life altering experiences that will have the ability to change our trajectory, bring us to a cross road or that will challenge our core beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. Through my work with individuals, families and couples I have enjoyed helping others to navigate these obstacles in order to transform these adverse experiences into opportunities of growth.
Our childhood, history, and personal myths about ourselves are powerful forces that have the ability to shape our interpersonal relationships and behaviors; worldview and ourselves. At some point, we all have experiences, challenges or life altering experiences that will have the ability to change our trajectory, bring us to a cross road or that will challenge our core beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. Through my work with individuals, families and couples I have enjoyed helping others to navigate these obstacles in order to transform these adverse experiences into opportunities of growth.
(516) 212-6981 View (516) 212-6981
Photo of Katherine Orobona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Katherine Orobona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Farmingdale, NY 11735  (Online Only)
Our Childhood, history, and personal myths about ourselves are powerful forces that have the ability to shape our interpersonal relationships and behaviors; worldview and ourselves. At some point, we have all experiences, challenges or life altering experiences that will have the ability to change our trajectory, bring us to a cross road or that will challenge our core beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. Through my work with individuals, families and couples I have enjoyed helping others to navigate these obstacles in order to transform these adverse experiences into opportunities of growth.
Our Childhood, history, and personal myths about ourselves are powerful forces that have the ability to shape our interpersonal relationships and behaviors; worldview and ourselves. At some point, we have all experiences, challenges or life altering experiences that will have the ability to change our trajectory, bring us to a cross road or that will challenge our core beliefs about ourselves and the world around us. Through my work with individuals, families and couples I have enjoyed helping others to navigate these obstacles in order to transform these adverse experiences into opportunities of growth.
(516) 219-9782 View (516) 219-9782
Photo of Leah Cerf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Leah Cerf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
As a therapist and visual artist, my work is informed by psychodynamic psychotherapy, neuroscience, mindfulness and imagery techniques, somatic work, cognitive behavioral therapy, and attachment-based therapy.
If you are feeling stuck and overwhelmed, you came to the right place. Together, we'll gain insight into what's getting in your way to restore balance to your life. I'll help you identify distorted thinking, modify beliefs, alter behavior, and relate to yourself and others in a way that feels easeful and gratifying. I am warm, non-judgmental, and direct—no subject is off limits, and humor is welcome! My style is integrative, merging evidence-based therapies with alternative “new-wave" therapies, honoring the connection between mind, body and spirit. I am strengths-based, trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ affirmative, and nonpathologizing.
As a therapist and visual artist, my work is informed by psychodynamic psychotherapy, neuroscience, mindfulness and imagery techniques, somatic work, cognitive behavioral therapy, and attachment-based therapy.
If you are feeling stuck and overwhelmed, you came to the right place. Together, we'll gain insight into what's getting in your way to restore balance to your life. I'll help you identify distorted thinking, modify beliefs, alter behavior, and relate to yourself and others in a way that feels easeful and gratifying. I am warm, non-judgmental, and direct—no subject is off limits, and humor is welcome! My style is integrative, merging evidence-based therapies with alternative “new-wave" therapies, honoring the connection between mind, body and spirit. I am strengths-based, trauma-informed, LGBTQ+ affirmative, and nonpathologizing.
(646) 849-4490 View (646) 849-4490
Photo of Dr. Erin Weinstein, Psychologist in New York
Dr. Erin Weinstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598  (Online Only)
I use an attachment-based/relational approach to help build capacity for internal reflection so we can uncover and work through psychological processes that are operating under the surface and contributing to the symptoms and issues that are causing you distress.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of direct clinical experience. I specialize in working with culturally diverse young adults (aprx age 18-35) who are having difficulty regulating themselves and experiencing some level of emotional and/or behavioral distress, which sometimes leads to significant problems in school, at work, and/or in relationships with oneself and others. Often, this distress can be eased with increased self-awareness that supports your ability to regulate your internal experience so your emotions feel manageable, your thoughts are more comforting, and you have more control over your behavior.
I use an attachment-based/relational approach to help build capacity for internal reflection so we can uncover and work through psychological processes that are operating under the surface and contributing to the symptoms and issues that are causing you distress.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of direct clinical experience. I specialize in working with culturally diverse young adults (aprx age 18-35) who are having difficulty regulating themselves and experiencing some level of emotional and/or behavioral distress, which sometimes leads to significant problems in school, at work, and/or in relationships with oneself and others. Often, this distress can be eased with increased self-awareness that supports your ability to regulate your internal experience so your emotions feel manageable, your thoughts are more comforting, and you have more control over your behavior.
(914) 350-4220 View (914) 350-4220
Photo of Megan Black, Counselor in New York
Megan Black
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
I specialize in helping clients of all ages, with a primary focus on pre-K to adolescent children. I offer virtual appointments for adults during the week and in-person sessions on weekends. My goal is to improve functioning in the home, at school, at the workplace, and in relationships. I use a brain-based approach with attachment-based, mindfulness, play, narrative, and art therapy to address barriers and promote mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize collaboration with parents when working with children to improve overall family functioning.
I specialize in helping clients of all ages, with a primary focus on pre-K to adolescent children. I offer virtual appointments for adults during the week and in-person sessions on weekends. My goal is to improve functioning in the home, at school, at the workplace, and in relationships. I use a brain-based approach with attachment-based, mindfulness, play, narrative, and art therapy to address barriers and promote mental wellness. In my practice, I prioritize collaboration with parents when working with children to improve overall family functioning.
(585) 476-3827 View (585) 476-3827
Photo of Mehak Katyal, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Mehak Katyal
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MHC-I
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I also use person-centered, attachment-based, and solution-focused modalities to work with teens and young adults to treat issues related to self-esteem, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation/gender identity, depression, anxiety, trauma, academic stress, and relationships.
I approach psychotherapy with cultural humility and a growth mindset. As a South-Asian woman continuing to navigate the nuances of my bi-cultural identities, I appreciate the contributions of complex sociocultural issues to an individual’s sense of self, holistic well-being, and meaning in life. My educational and clinical experience thus far has fueled my passion towards working with underserved populations including BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.
I also use person-centered, attachment-based, and solution-focused modalities to work with teens and young adults to treat issues related to self-esteem, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation/gender identity, depression, anxiety, trauma, academic stress, and relationships.
I approach psychotherapy with cultural humility and a growth mindset. As a South-Asian woman continuing to navigate the nuances of my bi-cultural identities, I appreciate the contributions of complex sociocultural issues to an individual’s sense of self, holistic well-being, and meaning in life. My educational and clinical experience thus far has fueled my passion towards working with underserved populations including BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities.
(929) 499-2163 View (929) 499-2163
Photo of Emily M Feinberg, Licensed Master Social Worker in New York
Emily M Feinberg
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sag Harbor, NY 11963  (Online Only)
I also draw from social justice, feminist, attachment-based, traditional Eastern philosophy, and mindfulness modalities.
I fundamentally believe in the connection between the mind and body, and work from a client-centered, somatic approach. Through therapy, we'll explore your history, nervous system, and relationship to your body. With intentional work, we'll get a better understanding of your unique experience, patterns that your nervous system engages in, and how to learn and unlearn new ways of knowing.
I also draw from social justice, feminist, attachment-based, traditional Eastern philosophy, and mindfulness modalities.
I fundamentally believe in the connection between the mind and body, and work from a client-centered, somatic approach. Through therapy, we'll explore your history, nervous system, and relationship to your body. With intentional work, we'll get a better understanding of your unique experience, patterns that your nervous system engages in, and how to learn and unlearn new ways of knowing.
(516) 928-6024 View (516) 928-6024
Photo of Alisha Ost, Counselor in New York
Alisha Ost
Counselor, MS Ed, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corning, NY 14830  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship? Whether you're struggling to make sense of traumatic life experiences, navigating relationship, family, or parenting concerns, or simply want to improve your ability to prioritize and manage your own mental health and well-being, I'm here to help. Together, we will work to build a trusting and authentic relationship where you will feel validated, supported, and empowered as you work toward your counseling goals.
Are you looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship? Whether you're struggling to make sense of traumatic life experiences, navigating relationship, family, or parenting concerns, or simply want to improve your ability to prioritize and manage your own mental health and well-being, I'm here to help. Together, we will work to build a trusting and authentic relationship where you will feel validated, supported, and empowered as you work toward your counseling goals.
(607) 600-9345 View (607) 600-9345
Photo of Hannah I. Guz, Psychologist in New York
Hannah I. Guz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
EFT is an attachment-based therapy that emphasizes how problematic patterns in relationships impact security and trust.
Dr. Guz is a clinical psychologist with specialized training in anxiety, depression, mood, and trauma-related disorders. Dr. Guz provides an empathic and safe environment where patients can process their joys and their pains, while moving towards their goals. Dr. Guz believes that each person is inherently worthy, and that in the process of being seen and understood, people are able to build insight and recognize their strengths. In sessions, Dr. Guz will help patients build practical skills to manage stress and address the unhelpful patterns in thinking and behaving that underpin suffering.
EFT is an attachment-based therapy that emphasizes how problematic patterns in relationships impact security and trust.
Dr. Guz is a clinical psychologist with specialized training in anxiety, depression, mood, and trauma-related disorders. Dr. Guz provides an empathic and safe environment where patients can process their joys and their pains, while moving towards their goals. Dr. Guz believes that each person is inherently worthy, and that in the process of being seen and understood, people are able to build insight and recognize their strengths. In sessions, Dr. Guz will help patients build practical skills to manage stress and address the unhelpful patterns in thinking and behaving that underpin suffering.
(347) 830-7191 View (347) 830-7191
Photo of Taima M. Elliott Counseling Service LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Taima M. Elliott Counseling Service LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036
Primarily practicing is through a relational, attachment-based, and psychodynamic lens, specializing in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and complex grief.
I’m an Brooklyn native, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and an active member of the American Counseling Association .I received my graduate degree from Fordham University and have a combined clinical studies and direct practice/ counseling for over 10 years. My experience supporting diverse cultures, from teenagers to elder adults has become my passion. It was through my own adversity, a time marked with loss, grief, healing and emotional growth; I found my inspiration & began the journey of helping others. Taima M. Elliott Counseling Service, PLLC emerged as a solace for all those in need.
Primarily practicing is through a relational, attachment-based, and psychodynamic lens, specializing in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and complex grief.
I’m an Brooklyn native, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and an active member of the American Counseling Association .I received my graduate degree from Fordham University and have a combined clinical studies and direct practice/ counseling for over 10 years. My experience supporting diverse cultures, from teenagers to elder adults has become my passion. It was through my own adversity, a time marked with loss, grief, healing and emotional growth; I found my inspiration & began the journey of helping others. Taima M. Elliott Counseling Service, PLLC emerged as a solace for all those in need.
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Photo of Better Life Associates LLC, Pre-Licensed Professional in New York
Better Life Associates LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hi, I'm Dr. Korey Abbriano. I work with clients with a variety of mental health difficulties. My flexible treatment style aims to meet the needs of my clients, utilizing an integrative approach and incorporating relational and attachment-based therapies to empower clients and explore how early attachment styles may influence their current relationships. I also integrate aspects of cognitive-behavioral, dialectal, and acceptance and commitment therapies to provide clients the skills and tools to work towards their individual goals. I prioritize the therapeutic alliance to create a collaborative, warm and supportive environment.
Hi, I'm Dr. Korey Abbriano. I work with clients with a variety of mental health difficulties. My flexible treatment style aims to meet the needs of my clients, utilizing an integrative approach and incorporating relational and attachment-based therapies to empower clients and explore how early attachment styles may influence their current relationships. I also integrate aspects of cognitive-behavioral, dialectal, and acceptance and commitment therapies to provide clients the skills and tools to work towards their individual goals. I prioritize the therapeutic alliance to create a collaborative, warm and supportive environment.
(516) 241-3838 View (516) 241-3838
Photo of Monica Zahl, Mental Health Counselor in New York
Monica Zahl
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11216  (Online Only)
I practice an integrative approach to psychotherapy, utilizing body-centered techniques, mindfulness, CBT, Internal Family Systems and attachment-based therapies to explore both systemic and individual challenges.
I specialize in working with clients in the LGBTQ+ community, to create a genuine and compassionate therapeutic relationship that is gender- and sexuality-affirming. I work with adults experiencing a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment difficulties, relationship and sex-related issues. It is through a warm and non-judgemental collaboration that we can examine the sources of adversity you are experiencing, and together create the motivation to make the changes you want to see in your life.
I practice an integrative approach to psychotherapy, utilizing body-centered techniques, mindfulness, CBT, Internal Family Systems and attachment-based therapies to explore both systemic and individual challenges.
I specialize in working with clients in the LGBTQ+ community, to create a genuine and compassionate therapeutic relationship that is gender- and sexuality-affirming. I work with adults experiencing a range of issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment difficulties, relationship and sex-related issues. It is through a warm and non-judgemental collaboration that we can examine the sources of adversity you are experiencing, and together create the motivation to make the changes you want to see in your life.
(929) 581-7339 View (929) 581-7339
Photo of Teresa Maguire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New York
Teresa Maguire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bronx, NY 10466
My name is Teresa Maguire, and I have been a psychotherapist (LCSW-R) for 25 years. I work primarily with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, gender identity concerns, relationship problems, and LGBTQ issues. I work mainly from a psychodynamic and relational model, utilizing Attachment-based, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, Person-Centered, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe those therapeutic relationships are the most important vehicle for facilitating positive change and growth.
My name is Teresa Maguire, and I have been a psychotherapist (LCSW-R) for 25 years. I work primarily with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, gender identity concerns, relationship problems, and LGBTQ issues. I work mainly from a psychodynamic and relational model, utilizing Attachment-based, Eclectic, Psychodynamic, Person-Centered, and Trauma Focused therapies. I believe those therapeutic relationships are the most important vehicle for facilitating positive change and growth.
(718) 865-3729 View (718) 865-3729
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.