Attachment-based Therapists in North Carolina

Photo of In Session Psych, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
In Session Psych, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
We provide science-based practices, including EMDR, ACT, AEDP, and EFIT (all attachment-based models) to help clients identify and overcome barriers to meeting their goals in a warm and inviting environment.
We established In Session Psych, as a husband and wife team, with the goal of providing a science-based approach to helping people navigate depression, anxiety, and addiction/recovery. Our well-being is deeply tied into the quality and depth of our emotional connections with ourselves and others. We work with people to strengthen these connections.
We provide science-based practices, including EMDR, ACT, AEDP, and EFIT (all attachment-based models) to help clients identify and overcome barriers to meeting their goals in a warm and inviting environment.
We established In Session Psych, as a husband and wife team, with the goal of providing a science-based approach to helping people navigate depression, anxiety, and addiction/recovery. Our well-being is deeply tied into the quality and depth of our emotional connections with ourselves and others. We work with people to strengthen these connections.
(704) 387-5464 View (704) 387-5464
Photo of Caroline Swindell, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Caroline Swindell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I work with all ages from a client-centered, internal family systems (IFS), and attachment-based approach (EFT).
We live in a world where we are constantly expected to grow and change without even knowing ourselves. With all my clients, I see them as the experts of their own life and aim to create a supportive space for vulnerability and radical acceptance. If they are struggling to find to their inner voice, I work with them to do this by processing their life experiences and trauma. By following a person centered and eclectic strategy, we develop tools for a deeper self-understanding of their needs and boundaries. I love working with children, individuals, parents, and couples to become comfortable with self-acceptance and emotions.
I work with all ages from a client-centered, internal family systems (IFS), and attachment-based approach (EFT).
We live in a world where we are constantly expected to grow and change without even knowing ourselves. With all my clients, I see them as the experts of their own life and aim to create a supportive space for vulnerability and radical acceptance. If they are struggling to find to their inner voice, I work with them to do this by processing their life experiences and trauma. By following a person centered and eclectic strategy, we develop tools for a deeper self-understanding of their needs and boundaries. I love working with children, individuals, parents, and couples to become comfortable with self-acceptance and emotions.
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Photo of Matthew Beason, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Matthew Beason
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I have been involved with mental health and addiction recovery since 2012. My ideal client is someone who is struggling to make sense of their path and is looking to be pushed while being seen. I wish to know you and develop a greater awareness of what makes you unique. Through this process, you can expect to develop a profound sense of meaning and enjoy richer relationships. My style is warm, inquisitive, humorous, and challenging. I focus on the experience that is created between therapist and client and how that pertains to all relationships. I am attachment based, somatic and body oriented, and trauma informed.
I have been involved with mental health and addiction recovery since 2012. My ideal client is someone who is struggling to make sense of their path and is looking to be pushed while being seen. I wish to know you and develop a greater awareness of what makes you unique. Through this process, you can expect to develop a profound sense of meaning and enjoy richer relationships. My style is warm, inquisitive, humorous, and challenging. I focus on the experience that is created between therapist and client and how that pertains to all relationships. I am attachment based, somatic and body oriented, and trauma informed.
(828) 827-4242 View (828) 827-4242
Photo of Karen McCabe Barry, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Karen McCabe Barry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
Currently I'm only accepting individuals for virtual session. As a marriage and family therapist I work with individuals, couples and family groups.Being an LMFT means being "systemic". I enjoy working with people with a variety of concerns such as: life transitions, relationships, sexual dysfunction, divorce/remarriage and health. I treat mental health issues as well as provide coaching. My focus is integrative, strength-based and client centered, meaning I'll work with you at your speed to achieve your goals. I view coaching and therapy as a collaborate process. Your motivation and our relationship is key.
Currently I'm only accepting individuals for virtual session. As a marriage and family therapist I work with individuals, couples and family groups.Being an LMFT means being "systemic". I enjoy working with people with a variety of concerns such as: life transitions, relationships, sexual dysfunction, divorce/remarriage and health. I treat mental health issues as well as provide coaching. My focus is integrative, strength-based and client centered, meaning I'll work with you at your speed to achieve your goals. I view coaching and therapy as a collaborate process. Your motivation and our relationship is key.
(704) 981-6854 View (704) 981-6854
Photo of Jenna Kelley Haque, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Jenna Kelley Haque
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Weekday appointments available: My approach to therapy is attachment based psychoanalysis with a trauma focus. All humans have the basic fundamental need to be loved, be seen, and be heard. Our beliefs, feelings, behavior patterns, and relational dynamics are driven by these needs before we could articulate. We learned about our world through our first relationships and these subconscious attachments. We work with the subconscious, identify how your attachment reinforces choices, and unworked through feelings. You may not have an identified traumatic experience; rather, you experienced an event that was too complex to process then.
Weekday appointments available: My approach to therapy is attachment based psychoanalysis with a trauma focus. All humans have the basic fundamental need to be loved, be seen, and be heard. Our beliefs, feelings, behavior patterns, and relational dynamics are driven by these needs before we could articulate. We learned about our world through our first relationships and these subconscious attachments. We work with the subconscious, identify how your attachment reinforces choices, and unworked through feelings. You may not have an identified traumatic experience; rather, you experienced an event that was too complex to process then.
(704) 286-8573 View (704) 286-8573
Photo of Julia Bernards, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Julia Bernards
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apex, NC 27502
It can get better. Just getting by in your life or relationships, or feeling like things are overwhelming, unsafe or out of control is worth getting help with. Feeling lost in a life transition is worth getting help with. Finding a way to thrive instead of just survive is worth getting help with. You can have help focusing your efforts on what will actually make a difference, so it can get better. Models I use to understand where you are & how to get where you want to go include Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
It can get better. Just getting by in your life or relationships, or feeling like things are overwhelming, unsafe or out of control is worth getting help with. Feeling lost in a life transition is worth getting help with. Finding a way to thrive instead of just survive is worth getting help with. You can have help focusing your efforts on what will actually make a difference, so it can get better. Models I use to understand where you are & how to get where you want to go include Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology & Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
(919) 705-0057 View (919) 705-0057
Photo of H. M. Humphrey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
H. M. Humphrey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104  (Online Only)
I provide Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, an attachment-based therapy that helps partners to create corrective emotional experiences in session.
I help couples make sense of how they are getting stuck in conflict. I help them organize their experience, and clarify the good emotional reasons for why they are stuck. Together we identify unmet needs and longings, and work to develop understanding and responsiveness. With greater closeness and trust, partners are able to find solutions to life’s challenges, heal from relationship wounds, and experience love again. I have experience helping couples recover from infidelity/betrayals. When counseling individual clients, I work from a trauma-informed, attachment lens. I help individuals clarify what they need to heal and grow.
I provide Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, an attachment-based therapy that helps partners to create corrective emotional experiences in session.
I help couples make sense of how they are getting stuck in conflict. I help them organize their experience, and clarify the good emotional reasons for why they are stuck. Together we identify unmet needs and longings, and work to develop understanding and responsiveness. With greater closeness and trust, partners are able to find solutions to life’s challenges, heal from relationship wounds, and experience love again. I have experience helping couples recover from infidelity/betrayals. When counseling individual clients, I work from a trauma-informed, attachment lens. I help individuals clarify what they need to heal and grow.
(336) 606-3861 View (336) 606-3861
Photo of Brinkley Stone-Hart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Brinkley Stone-Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Sometimes we need someone to help us get grounded, reconnect to ourselves and our relationships, and get through challenging times. I’m a licensed therapist in Asheville, NC, and I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. I have been supporting individuals and their families since 2004.  I use an attachment based, psychodynamic approach to healing trauma and relationships, along with Brainspotting. I specialize in treating trauma, attachment wounds, and addiction.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Sometimes we need someone to help us get grounded, reconnect to ourselves and our relationships, and get through challenging times. I’m a licensed therapist in Asheville, NC, and I’m here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. I have been supporting individuals and their families since 2004.  I use an attachment based, psychodynamic approach to healing trauma and relationships, along with Brainspotting. I specialize in treating trauma, attachment wounds, and addiction.
(828) 705-3537 View (828) 705-3537
Photo of Thorne Myers, Master of Social Work in North Carolina
Thorne Myers
Master of Social Work, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Thorne (they/them) and I am a white, queer, non-binary licensed clinical social worker associate (LCSWA) offering both individuals and couples/relationship therapy in Durham, NC. My work is grounded in fierce compassion and a belief that everyone is capable of healing and feeling like they belong. It is my experience that one of the key elements of transformative therapy is our relationship; that we are a good “fit” and that you feel safe to share your joy, anger, grief, and tears. My style is gentle, attentive, playful, and person-centered–drawing from relational, narrative, and attachment-based therapy approaches.
My name is Thorne (they/them) and I am a white, queer, non-binary licensed clinical social worker associate (LCSWA) offering both individuals and couples/relationship therapy in Durham, NC. My work is grounded in fierce compassion and a belief that everyone is capable of healing and feeling like they belong. It is my experience that one of the key elements of transformative therapy is our relationship; that we are a good “fit” and that you feel safe to share your joy, anger, grief, and tears. My style is gentle, attentive, playful, and person-centered–drawing from relational, narrative, and attachment-based therapy approaches.
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Photo of Rachel Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Rachel Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
I am formally trained in EMDR, and enjoy using cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness strategies, attachment-based therapy, strengths-based therapy, and other evidence-based practices.
You deserve to live a meaningful and balanced life. Using a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will create a safe and nurturing environment for you to begin your self-exploration and healing. I will listen to you without judgment and honor you as a whole person who has inherent wisdom. Whether it is processing unresolved trauma, improving your mood, strengthening your relationships, or seeking support as you navigate life's transitions and challenges, you will experience healing and growth.
I am formally trained in EMDR, and enjoy using cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness strategies, attachment-based therapy, strengths-based therapy, and other evidence-based practices.
You deserve to live a meaningful and balanced life. Using a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will create a safe and nurturing environment for you to begin your self-exploration and healing. I will listen to you without judgment and honor you as a whole person who has inherent wisdom. Whether it is processing unresolved trauma, improving your mood, strengthening your relationships, or seeking support as you navigate life's transitions and challenges, you will experience healing and growth.
(919) 849-5273 View (919) 849-5273
Photo of Dr. Amy Waldbillig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Dr. Amy Waldbillig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
My counseling expertise includes: Trauma-informed care, Trust Based Relational Interventions (TBRI), Neuro-science-based interventions, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
Life is a journey full of new beginnings. Change can be difficult. But the rewards of taking that first step towards change will be worth it. My passion is to empower others to achieve their fullest potential, to guide clients work through their current challenges and help them to move beyond — so they walk away stronger, wiser, and feeling good about their ability to shape their own future.
My counseling expertise includes: Trauma-informed care, Trust Based Relational Interventions (TBRI), Neuro-science-based interventions, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
Life is a journey full of new beginnings. Change can be difficult. But the rewards of taking that first step towards change will be worth it. My passion is to empower others to achieve their fullest potential, to guide clients work through their current challenges and help them to move beyond — so they walk away stronger, wiser, and feeling good about their ability to shape their own future.
(910) 543-3865 View (910) 543-3865
Photo of Deepa Bhatt-Mackin, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Deepa Bhatt-Mackin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
(919) 343-0027 View (919) 343-0027
Photo of Attuned Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Attuned Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806
My approach to therapy is relationally based, trauma-informed, and is grounded in attachment-based therapy.
Are you still figuring it all out? We all should be! Life is a journey full of personal growth, discovery, and healing. I have witnessed the powerful transformations and healing that occurs when the right therapeutic connection can happen. I am passionate about helping others engage more meaningfully in their lives. While working with me, you will have the space to explore how to change old patterns in your life, gain an understanding of why these patterns exist, and discover new ways of being in the world that fits in with your values.
My approach to therapy is relationally based, trauma-informed, and is grounded in attachment-based therapy.
Are you still figuring it all out? We all should be! Life is a journey full of personal growth, discovery, and healing. I have witnessed the powerful transformations and healing that occurs when the right therapeutic connection can happen. I am passionate about helping others engage more meaningfully in their lives. While working with me, you will have the space to explore how to change old patterns in your life, gain an understanding of why these patterns exist, and discover new ways of being in the world that fits in with your values.
(828) 360-9421 View (828) 360-9421
Photo of Taylor Starns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Taylor Starns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Waitlist for new clients
These modalities include CBT, Attachment-Based Therapy, EMDR, Psychoeducation, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
As a Therapist, I believe that central to our success is a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship. I prioritize creating a safe relational space for my clients so that we can identify areas of strength and areas of growth. I specialize in Mood Disorders such as anxiety and depression, Eating Disorders, life transitions, Gender and Sexuality, and social/relational issues. I am a Certified EMDR Practitioner with extensive training and experience in supporting LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults through transitions and mental health distress.
These modalities include CBT, Attachment-Based Therapy, EMDR, Psychoeducation, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
As a Therapist, I believe that central to our success is a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship. I prioritize creating a safe relational space for my clients so that we can identify areas of strength and areas of growth. I specialize in Mood Disorders such as anxiety and depression, Eating Disorders, life transitions, Gender and Sexuality, and social/relational issues. I am a Certified EMDR Practitioner with extensive training and experience in supporting LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults through transitions and mental health distress.
(919) 348-4936 View (919) 348-4936
Photo of Mary Dick, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in North Carolina
Mary Dick
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Wake Forest, NC 27587  (Online Only)
My work is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and attachment-based therapies.
I provide online counseling and specialize in working with teens, adults, and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles and disconnect. I am passionate about advocating for my clients in their lives and relationships. I value the mind-body connection and like to incorporate grounding exercises and meditation into therapy if clients are interested.
My work is informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and attachment-based therapies.
I provide online counseling and specialize in working with teens, adults, and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship struggles and disconnect. I am passionate about advocating for my clients in their lives and relationships. I value the mind-body connection and like to incorporate grounding exercises and meditation into therapy if clients are interested.
(984) 306-5280 View (984) 306-5280
Photo of Maren Londahl-Smidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Maren Londahl-Smidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Do you overthink situations, constantly replay situations in your head or you often feel overwhelmed? Do you constantly worry and don’t know how to turn this off? Do you find that you struggle with confidence and often question yourself? Maybe you're having difficultly managing your emotions? Or you don't know what you are feeling? Lets work together to turn off the negative self talk, figure out how to manage your overwhelming emotions and find your best self.
Do you overthink situations, constantly replay situations in your head or you often feel overwhelmed? Do you constantly worry and don’t know how to turn this off? Do you find that you struggle with confidence and often question yourself? Maybe you're having difficultly managing your emotions? Or you don't know what you are feeling? Lets work together to turn off the negative self talk, figure out how to manage your overwhelming emotions and find your best self.
(919) 205-2592 View (919) 205-2592
Photo of Sally F Maslansky, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Sally F Maslansky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carrboro, NC 27510  (Online Only)
Therapy at its best is a unique collaboration between therapist and client. I offer my education, training and experience along with an open mind and attuned communication to assist my clients' in exploring the issues they bring to therapy. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with adults, couples, adolescents and families working on interpersonal and intra-personal issues. I am committed to nurturing my client's personal growth and development towards achieving a deeper sense of self knowing and the ability to live an integrated, emotionally regulated and balanced life.
Therapy at its best is a unique collaboration between therapist and client. I offer my education, training and experience along with an open mind and attuned communication to assist my clients' in exploring the issues they bring to therapy. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I specialize in working with adults, couples, adolescents and families working on interpersonal and intra-personal issues. I am committed to nurturing my client's personal growth and development towards achieving a deeper sense of self knowing and the ability to live an integrated, emotionally regulated and balanced life.
(919) 714-4139 View (919) 714-4139
Photo of Liz Minnich, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Liz Minnich
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Using Attachment-Based Therapy and CBT my caseload consists of: Survivors of trauma, survivors of abuse, adult children of alcoholics/mentally ill/abusive parents, young adults in transition, people pleasers, and perfectionists.
Welcome! I hold the belief that every person is inherently good, lovable, capable, and resilient. Ideally, my role is to support clients in discovering their true selves in a safe, and caring environment. Simply put, I encourage all of my clients to come as they are. ​ I commit to create a space in which we can reflect on the past and the present and practice new ways to connect authentically with others, quiet the inner critic, and live a life lead by their unique values.
Using Attachment-Based Therapy and CBT my caseload consists of: Survivors of trauma, survivors of abuse, adult children of alcoholics/mentally ill/abusive parents, young adults in transition, people pleasers, and perfectionists.
Welcome! I hold the belief that every person is inherently good, lovable, capable, and resilient. Ideally, my role is to support clients in discovering their true selves in a safe, and caring environment. Simply put, I encourage all of my clients to come as they are. ​ I commit to create a space in which we can reflect on the past and the present and practice new ways to connect authentically with others, quiet the inner critic, and live a life lead by their unique values.
(919) 794-8326 View (919) 794-8326
Photo of Jenica Cannella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Jenica Cannella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
My approach is attachment-based and customized to your needs, fostering emotional growth and resilience in a supportive environment.
Are you navigating neurodivergence, anxiety, or life transitions as a woman? I specialize in late-diagnosed ADHD and autism. Being late diagnosed neurodivergent myself, I deeply understand the complexities of juggling parenting, family, career, and social aspects of life. I'm here to help you work through these challenges, empowering you towards growth and healing. I also work with children ages 5-12 in the areas of ADHD, emotional regulation, anxiety, and going between split households. I am an adoption competent therapist and work with adoptees and adoptive parents.
My approach is attachment-based and customized to your needs, fostering emotional growth and resilience in a supportive environment.
Are you navigating neurodivergence, anxiety, or life transitions as a woman? I specialize in late-diagnosed ADHD and autism. Being late diagnosed neurodivergent myself, I deeply understand the complexities of juggling parenting, family, career, and social aspects of life. I'm here to help you work through these challenges, empowering you towards growth and healing. I also work with children ages 5-12 in the areas of ADHD, emotional regulation, anxiety, and going between split households. I am an adoption competent therapist and work with adoptees and adoptive parents.
(704) 360-5405 View (704) 360-5405
Photo of Maeve Hendrix, Counselor in North Carolina
Maeve Hendrix
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RYT 500, YACEP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Through an attachment-based lens, I offer Somatic Therapy in the form of embodied mindfulness, EMDR, IFS and Hakomi inspired practices, as well as Expressive Arts Therapy.
Deepening our relationship with ourself naturally transforms our relationships with others, as well as with the world around us... and I love supporting you in this process. I offer encouraging and inquisitive presence as we work together to resource your nervous system, deepen self-attunement, and cultivate resilience during times of stress, grief, life transitions, relationship changes and spiritual explorations. I specialize in helping my clients identify and express their needs and wants as well as learn to establish and hold healthy boundaries in order to experience more empowered and connective relationships.
Through an attachment-based lens, I offer Somatic Therapy in the form of embodied mindfulness, EMDR, IFS and Hakomi inspired practices, as well as Expressive Arts Therapy.
Deepening our relationship with ourself naturally transforms our relationships with others, as well as with the world around us... and I love supporting you in this process. I offer encouraging and inquisitive presence as we work together to resource your nervous system, deepen self-attunement, and cultivate resilience during times of stress, grief, life transitions, relationship changes and spiritual explorations. I specialize in helping my clients identify and express their needs and wants as well as learn to establish and hold healthy boundaries in order to experience more empowered and connective relationships.
(833) 956-0229 View (833) 956-0229

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Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

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

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

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

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

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

Does attachment-based therapy work?

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