Attachment-based Therapists in Oregon

Photo of Heather Leilani Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oregon
Heather Leilani Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I use therapy techniques including Mindfulness, Contextual and Attachment-Based strategies to provide you a culturally competent space to process and reflect, to gain knowledge of attachment patterns, and to focus self-agency.
Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other concerns, you deserve a therapist who will be open and supportive yet willing to challenge you gently when needed.  With an approach that combines connection and boundaries, we can work together to help you find the agency you need to move through life with pleasure. I specialize in working with BIPOC, LGTBQIA, Polyamory/Non-Monogamous, and Kink/BDSM communities to provide comprehensive, evidence based, trauma informed, sex positive therapy, that meets the needs of sexual marginalized populations.
I use therapy techniques including Mindfulness, Contextual and Attachment-Based strategies to provide you a culturally competent space to process and reflect, to gain knowledge of attachment patterns, and to focus self-agency.
Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other concerns, you deserve a therapist who will be open and supportive yet willing to challenge you gently when needed.  With an approach that combines connection and boundaries, we can work together to help you find the agency you need to move through life with pleasure. I specialize in working with BIPOC, LGTBQIA, Polyamory/Non-Monogamous, and Kink/BDSM communities to provide comprehensive, evidence based, trauma informed, sex positive therapy, that meets the needs of sexual marginalized populations.
(503) 994-9547 View (503) 994-9547
Photo of Izy Leighton, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oregon
Izy Leighton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with individual, relational, and sexual issues from a sociocultural and attachment-based lens.
I believe that engaging in therapy is a radically courageous act. Exploring and sharing our stories can be terrifying, and doing so may go against the messages you internalized and survival strategies you adopted. Regardless of what brings you in, therapy can help you feel more fulfilled and more richly connected with yourself and others. I know that living in this time and culture can be confusing, painful, and isolating, and believe everyone deserves a space to make sense of it all, to be deeply seen and heard, and to be supported in cultivating a more meaningful and joyful life.
I specialize in working with individual, relational, and sexual issues from a sociocultural and attachment-based lens.
I believe that engaging in therapy is a radically courageous act. Exploring and sharing our stories can be terrifying, and doing so may go against the messages you internalized and survival strategies you adopted. Regardless of what brings you in, therapy can help you feel more fulfilled and more richly connected with yourself and others. I know that living in this time and culture can be confusing, painful, and isolating, and believe everyone deserves a space to make sense of it all, to be deeply seen and heard, and to be supported in cultivating a more meaningful and joyful life.
(503) 974-1984 View (503) 974-1984
Photo of Michelle (Shelly) A Field, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oregon
Michelle (Shelly) A Field
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124
I work with individuals of varying ages. I work with people who have struggled with trauma. I enjoy working with a range of populations and have some experience in a number of treatment modalities. I have some focus on attachment based theories. I use expressive art as part of other treatment modalities.
I work with individuals of varying ages. I work with people who have struggled with trauma. I enjoy working with a range of populations and have some experience in a number of treatment modalities. I have some focus on attachment based theories. I use expressive art as part of other treatment modalities.
(971) 257-1946 View (971) 257-1946
Photo of Jordyn Noland, Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon
Jordyn Noland
Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-I, MA, #R6890
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newberg, OR 97132
In our work together I will integrate an attachment-based approach, leaning into your emotional experiences and the connection they have to one another.
I'm currently accepting new clients! I specialize in working with individual clients who are dealing with issues related to eating disorders, anxiety, and, self-esteem. I also work with couples and families, integrating an emotion-focused therapy lens. I’m here as a resource to work alongside you in your journey towards growth, discovery, hope, and healing.
In our work together I will integrate an attachment-based approach, leaning into your emotional experiences and the connection they have to one another.
I'm currently accepting new clients! I specialize in working with individual clients who are dealing with issues related to eating disorders, anxiety, and, self-esteem. I also work with couples and families, integrating an emotion-focused therapy lens. I’m here as a resource to work alongside you in your journey towards growth, discovery, hope, and healing.
(971) 257-1394 View (971) 257-1394
Photo of Wind and Willow, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Wind and Willow, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, QMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
My counseling approach is holistic, emotion focused, and informed through an attachment-based perspective, where relationship building, communication, and emotional expression lie at the foundation.
Now Accepting New Clients! I enjoy working more closely with those experiencing life transitions. These events can be challenging, stressful, and overwhelming, and as you transition from one space to another, you may also find yourself on a journey of finding yourself. As we face change, we also change as people and adjusting to this can be hard at times, not just for yourself, but for those around you. Let's move forward together on identifying, processing, and cultivating what's important to you.
My counseling approach is holistic, emotion focused, and informed through an attachment-based perspective, where relationship building, communication, and emotional expression lie at the foundation.
Now Accepting New Clients! I enjoy working more closely with those experiencing life transitions. These events can be challenging, stressful, and overwhelming, and as you transition from one space to another, you may also find yourself on a journey of finding yourself. As we face change, we also change as people and adjusting to this can be hard at times, not just for yourself, but for those around you. Let's move forward together on identifying, processing, and cultivating what's important to you.
(503) 868-4951 View (503) 868-4951
Photo of Arah Erickson, Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon
Arah Erickson
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
My counseling approach is rooted in person-centered, attachment-based therapy.
Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. I offer therapy to individual adults in Oregon facing concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues and self-esteem. I often focus on supporting clients through life transitions including those working through mid-life concerns, career and family changes, transition to college, cancer diagnosis and survivorship and grief and loss. My style is warm, compassionate, and accepting. I want you to know you are safe, seen and heard. I will partner with you in moving toward change through gaining fresh insight, feeling self-compassion, and seeing your strengths.
My counseling approach is rooted in person-centered, attachment-based therapy.
Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. I offer therapy to individual adults in Oregon facing concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues and self-esteem. I often focus on supporting clients through life transitions including those working through mid-life concerns, career and family changes, transition to college, cancer diagnosis and survivorship and grief and loss. My style is warm, compassionate, and accepting. I want you to know you are safe, seen and heard. I will partner with you in moving toward change through gaining fresh insight, feeling self-compassion, and seeing your strengths.
(971) 293-2603 View (971) 293-2603
Photo of Aleisha Maunu, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Aleisha Maunu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner, with stressors in your family/work life, with your child's behaviors/emotions, or with your own personal/inner fears/worries/sadness? Perhaps you are struggling with the question, 'Who am I?' If you are feeling stuck, I can help you. Many people have gone through what you are going through, and there is help out there. I am a licensed therapist in the Denver Metro area with over 20 years of experience in the helping field, and I work with kids/teens, couples, families, and individuals.
Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner, with stressors in your family/work life, with your child's behaviors/emotions, or with your own personal/inner fears/worries/sadness? Perhaps you are struggling with the question, 'Who am I?' If you are feeling stuck, I can help you. Many people have gone through what you are going through, and there is help out there. I am a licensed therapist in the Denver Metro area with over 20 years of experience in the helping field, and I work with kids/teens, couples, families, and individuals.
(303) 351-5143 View (303) 351-5143
Photo of Hope for the Journey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Hope for the Journey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
McMinnville, OR 97128
Waitlist for new clients
My experience as an adoptive, foster and biological mom opened my eyes to mental health and I/DD needs as well as the effects of trauma. For 12 years I worked in county mental health serving initially as a skills trainer in homes, schools and the community. For 5 years I was a wraparound care coordinator, which inspired me to pursue my master’s degree in social work. Since 2017 I have provided therapy in both clinic and school settings. I mostly see clients with PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties and relational stresses. We address the effects on your total person: biological, psychological, social and spiritual.
My experience as an adoptive, foster and biological mom opened my eyes to mental health and I/DD needs as well as the effects of trauma. For 12 years I worked in county mental health serving initially as a skills trainer in homes, schools and the community. For 5 years I was a wraparound care coordinator, which inspired me to pursue my master’s degree in social work. Since 2017 I have provided therapy in both clinic and school settings. I mostly see clients with PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment difficulties and relational stresses. We address the effects on your total person: biological, psychological, social and spiritual.
(971) 290-2178 View (971) 290-2178
Photo of Claudia Byrne, Psychologist in Oregon
Claudia Byrne
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
I have over 20+ years of experience treating trauma with neurobiological and attachment-based approaches.
Are you feeling stuck in the past and unable to move forward? Are you wanting to delve deeper into healing from a trauma event or upcoming stressful life event? Do you feel stuck and wish you were making faster progress than you have been from going to weekly psychotherapy sessions? In my experience, 3-4 hour therapy intensive sessions accelerate progress in a shorter period of time for faster trauma resolution. Healing can occur in a few days of therapy intensive sessions rather than over years of weekly sessions. The only openings I have at this time are for therapy intensive sessions and in my online CBT-I Insomnia class.
I have over 20+ years of experience treating trauma with neurobiological and attachment-based approaches.
Are you feeling stuck in the past and unable to move forward? Are you wanting to delve deeper into healing from a trauma event or upcoming stressful life event? Do you feel stuck and wish you were making faster progress than you have been from going to weekly psychotherapy sessions? In my experience, 3-4 hour therapy intensive sessions accelerate progress in a shorter period of time for faster trauma resolution. Healing can occur in a few days of therapy intensive sessions rather than over years of weekly sessions. The only openings I have at this time are for therapy intensive sessions and in my online CBT-I Insomnia class.
(971) 231-2723 View (971) 231-2723
Photo of Kathleen (Kat) Robbins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Kathleen (Kat) Robbins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CMHC, CTTIII
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701  (Online Only)
I specialize in re-empowering women who are experiencing disconnection from the authentic self & strained mind & body connection. My work includes right-paced exploration of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-worth, body loathing, body transitions, & life transitions. I am dedicated to supporting the exploration of health holistically: the mental, emotional, physical, & spiritual factors that impact identity & lived experience. My intentions are to support insight on when to 'sit with' and when to be in action & to offer a safe space where exploration of all aspects of self can be experienced.
I specialize in re-empowering women who are experiencing disconnection from the authentic self & strained mind & body connection. My work includes right-paced exploration of trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-worth, body loathing, body transitions, & life transitions. I am dedicated to supporting the exploration of health holistically: the mental, emotional, physical, & spiritual factors that impact identity & lived experience. My intentions are to support insight on when to 'sit with' and when to be in action & to offer a safe space where exploration of all aspects of self can be experienced.
(458) 202-6844 View (458) 202-6844
Photo of Alex Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Alex Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a trauma-informed attachment-based perspective as I navigate the issues that my clients bring into the therapy room.
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
I utilize a trauma-informed attachment-based perspective as I navigate the issues that my clients bring into the therapy room.
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
(503) 433-8452 View (503) 433-8452
Photo of Simone Maya Weit, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Simone Maya Weit
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
I am currently accepting adult clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy in Grass Valley, CA and Portland, OR. My regular therapy practice is only open for Telehealth. I work with individuals experiencing PTSD, grief, end-of life transition, eco-anxiety, treatment resistant depression, relational challenges, and integrating non-ordinary states of consciousness. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight through self-inquiry, heal attachment through authentic connection, release trauma through embodied awareness, and experience breakthrough by dismantling patterns that no longer serve them.
I am currently accepting adult clients for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy in Grass Valley, CA and Portland, OR. My regular therapy practice is only open for Telehealth. I work with individuals experiencing PTSD, grief, end-of life transition, eco-anxiety, treatment resistant depression, relational challenges, and integrating non-ordinary states of consciousness. I am passionate about helping clients gain insight through self-inquiry, heal attachment through authentic connection, release trauma through embodied awareness, and experience breakthrough by dismantling patterns that no longer serve them.
(971) 299-2898 View (971) 299-2898
Photo of Jena Kunimune, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oregon
Jena Kunimune
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
through an attachment-based lens.
Are you looking for a couples or individual therapist? I'm glad you are taking the first steps! I am experienced working with diverse couple systems navigating interracial couple dynamics, intimacy and sex in relationships, and addressing conflict and communication patterns. I also offer individual therapy where my goal is to help you reconnect with your authentic-self and navigate ways to cope with the challenges life can throw at us. I am here to support you as you navigate the journey toward healing. I identify as a transracial and transnational Chinese adoptee and I have a special interest in serving transracial adoptees.
through an attachment-based lens.
Are you looking for a couples or individual therapist? I'm glad you are taking the first steps! I am experienced working with diverse couple systems navigating interracial couple dynamics, intimacy and sex in relationships, and addressing conflict and communication patterns. I also offer individual therapy where my goal is to help you reconnect with your authentic-self and navigate ways to cope with the challenges life can throw at us. I am here to support you as you navigate the journey toward healing. I identify as a transracial and transnational Chinese adoptee and I have a special interest in serving transracial adoptees.
(503) 382-8521 View (503) 382-8521
Photo of Marilyn Pool, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Marilyn Pool
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
Together we'll address your patterns of thought, emotion, behavior, and relating via Sensorimotor, Humanistic, Attachment-based, and Cognitive-Behavioral methods.
Effective therapy depends on a good client-therapist match. We'll work collaboratively to address relationship problems, life changes, losses, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelming emotions. My work is built on a foundation of compassion, pragmatism, and humor. We'll explore new perspectives, and experiment with tools for managing emotions, communicating effectively, and changing behaviors. We'll expand your capacity to cope with strong feelings and we'll deepen your sense of self.
Together we'll address your patterns of thought, emotion, behavior, and relating via Sensorimotor, Humanistic, Attachment-based, and Cognitive-Behavioral methods.
Effective therapy depends on a good client-therapist match. We'll work collaboratively to address relationship problems, life changes, losses, self-worth, anxiety, depression, trauma, and overwhelming emotions. My work is built on a foundation of compassion, pragmatism, and humor. We'll explore new perspectives, and experiment with tools for managing emotions, communicating effectively, and changing behaviors. We'll expand your capacity to cope with strong feelings and we'll deepen your sense of self.
(503) 446-3071 View (503) 446-3071
Photo of Stacey Nixon, Counselor in Oregon
Stacey Nixon
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
My approach to therapy is relational, collaborative, trauma-informed, and attachment-based.
We all can get stuck. Trauma, life stressors, uncomfortable emotions, and relationship concerns can throw us off balance. Do you feel constantly stressed, disconnected from your partner, or the impacts of trauma? The weight of these challenges can take a toll on your daily life and overall wellness. You may feel ready to process your trauma and find healing. Or, you may yearn for a closer connection and effective communication in your relationship. You may also desire the capacity to sift through your stressors and cope, calmness in your day-to-day, and fulfillment in life. This is where counseling can offer support and relief.
My approach to therapy is relational, collaborative, trauma-informed, and attachment-based.
We all can get stuck. Trauma, life stressors, uncomfortable emotions, and relationship concerns can throw us off balance. Do you feel constantly stressed, disconnected from your partner, or the impacts of trauma? The weight of these challenges can take a toll on your daily life and overall wellness. You may feel ready to process your trauma and find healing. Or, you may yearn for a closer connection and effective communication in your relationship. You may also desire the capacity to sift through your stressors and cope, calmness in your day-to-day, and fulfillment in life. This is where counseling can offer support and relief.
(503) 217-6644 View (503) 217-6644
Photo of Halle Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oregon
Halle Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My therapeutic foundation is attachment-based, guided by social justice principles.
Beginning therapy can often feel like a daunting process. It is a courageous choice that requires vulnerability and curiosity. Great job on taking the first step! I utilize warmth, compassion, curiosity, and a holistic lens to create a safe, authentic therapeutic space. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and see my role as a collaborator helping to co-author the stories of our lives. I support clients in creating more self-compassion and allowing space to navigate and overcome life's challenges, transitions, and stressors.
My therapeutic foundation is attachment-based, guided by social justice principles.
Beginning therapy can often feel like a daunting process. It is a courageous choice that requires vulnerability and curiosity. Great job on taking the first step! I utilize warmth, compassion, curiosity, and a holistic lens to create a safe, authentic therapeutic space. I prioritize the therapeutic relationship and see my role as a collaborator helping to co-author the stories of our lives. I support clients in creating more self-compassion and allowing space to navigate and overcome life's challenges, transitions, and stressors.
(971) 232-3277 View (971) 232-3277
Photo of Kami Marie Persse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Kami Marie Persse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Corvallis, OR 97330
Not accepting new patients at this time. I offer therapy for children 8 and up, young people, and adults. My aim is to help clients gain skills and insight so that they can learn to self regulate, establish confidence and increase self esteem, reduce anxiety and stress, and understand healthy boundaries. I also offer parents a time to reflect and learn new techniques to better their relationship with their child or children.
Not accepting new patients at this time. I offer therapy for children 8 and up, young people, and adults. My aim is to help clients gain skills and insight so that they can learn to self regulate, establish confidence and increase self esteem, reduce anxiety and stress, and understand healthy boundaries. I also offer parents a time to reflect and learn new techniques to better their relationship with their child or children.
(971) 314-4857 View (971) 314-4857
Photo of Kelsey Converse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Kelsey Converse
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
Kelsey will work with you in a collaborative process in order to gain insight, and reach your full potential. Kelsey's goal as a therapist is to illuminate the patterns and processes that may be working against you and to support you in bringing about your own positive changes, both within yourself and in your relationships.
Kelsey will work with you in a collaborative process in order to gain insight, and reach your full potential. Kelsey's goal as a therapist is to illuminate the patterns and processes that may be working against you and to support you in bringing about your own positive changes, both within yourself and in your relationships.
(541) 299-2259 View (541) 299-2259
Photo of Melissa Ellsworth, Psychologist in Oregon
Melissa Ellsworth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I use evidenced-based approaches including Pain Reprocessing Therapy & other somatic therapies, Internal Family Systems, attachment-based & DBT skills.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. When working with me, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
I use evidenced-based approaches including Pain Reprocessing Therapy & other somatic therapies, Internal Family Systems, attachment-based & DBT skills.
Do you ever feel stuck in a body that doesn't feel, act or look the way you want it to? Does it feel like your brain and body are out of sync? Whether it be chronic pain, sexual difficulties or gender incongruence - I'm here to help you get your mind and body back into alignment. When working with me, I will tailor therapy to meet your unique needs, and offer the tools and support you need to feel less pain, more sexual freedom and gender affirmation.
(971) 396-3205 View (971) 396-3205
Photo of Heather Mitchell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Heather Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
Depending on the goals you have, Heather may utilize a variety of techniques within your sessions that include mindfulness, attachment-based therapy, internal family systems therapy (IFS) and existential/humanistic questioning.
Heather is a compassionate guide who listens deeply and accepts you where you’re at. She helps you explore your strengths and limitations within a safe context where your thoughts and emotions can be felt, communicated, and understood. Heather is experienced in working with clients struggling with depression, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, relationship stress, and personal growth/exploration. She is specialized in helping women who have experienced infertility or loss due to miscarriage & is an Enneagram expert.
Depending on the goals you have, Heather may utilize a variety of techniques within your sessions that include mindfulness, attachment-based therapy, internal family systems therapy (IFS) and existential/humanistic questioning.
Heather is a compassionate guide who listens deeply and accepts you where you’re at. She helps you explore your strengths and limitations within a safe context where your thoughts and emotions can be felt, communicated, and understood. Heather is experienced in working with clients struggling with depression, grief and loss, trauma, anxiety, relationship stress, and personal growth/exploration. She is specialized in helping women who have experienced infertility or loss due to miscarriage & is an Enneagram expert.
(503) 741-2593 View (503) 741-2593
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.