Attachment-based Therapists in Tennessee

Photo of Heather Lefebvre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Heather Lefebvre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, (Temp)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37069
Specifically I am an attachment-based, neurobiologically-informed therapist, which is a wordy way of saying that I focus on the whole-person--mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
So you want something to change? What's standing in your way? Maybe you have experienced trauma or loss, or you find yourself in relationships that cost you more than you get in return. Maybe your partner, family, or child is struggling and you are looking for a way to help without getting lost yourself? Therapy can help you discover new truths about your situation, bringing you clarity and direction. With over 10 years in the mental health community, I have seen people find new hope and healing through the introspective and transforming work of therapy, all in pursuit of a life that is deeply satisfying.
Specifically I am an attachment-based, neurobiologically-informed therapist, which is a wordy way of saying that I focus on the whole-person--mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
So you want something to change? What's standing in your way? Maybe you have experienced trauma or loss, or you find yourself in relationships that cost you more than you get in return. Maybe your partner, family, or child is struggling and you are looking for a way to help without getting lost yourself? Therapy can help you discover new truths about your situation, bringing you clarity and direction. With over 10 years in the mental health community, I have seen people find new hope and healing through the introspective and transforming work of therapy, all in pursuit of a life that is deeply satisfying.
(615) 802-6386 View (615) 802-6386
Photo of Kendal McDaniel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Kendal McDaniel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFTI
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I am trauma informed and utilize evidence-based therapies such as CBT, EFT, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about working with our community and can personally relate to how religious, childhood, relational, and societal trauma can impact sexuality and sexual orientation. Sexuality is a unique spectrum and is a beautiful part of who we are. In therapy together, you will find an accepting and safe space to explore all questions related to sexuality, sexual orientation and gender, non-traditional relationships, and sense of self, all with compassion and care. At Affirming Therapy Services, you are free to be who you are and to continue to discover your most authentic self.
I am trauma informed and utilize evidence-based therapies such as CBT, EFT, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about working with our community and can personally relate to how religious, childhood, relational, and societal trauma can impact sexuality and sexual orientation. Sexuality is a unique spectrum and is a beautiful part of who we are. In therapy together, you will find an accepting and safe space to explore all questions related to sexuality, sexual orientation and gender, non-traditional relationships, and sense of self, all with compassion and care. At Affirming Therapy Services, you are free to be who you are and to continue to discover your most authentic self.
(423) 592-8149 View (423) 592-8149
Photo of Shelby Shaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Shelby Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
Welcome! I am attachment-based and skilled with trauma-informed interventions such Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR. Though I am well versed in wide variety of issues, my heart aligns with survivors of sexual trauma, domestic violence, and clients struggling with eating disorders. I have worked at a women's shelter for domestic and sexual violence, and I have 4+ years of experience working with eating disorders at the residential and outpatient levels of care.
Welcome! I am attachment-based and skilled with trauma-informed interventions such Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR. Though I am well versed in wide variety of issues, my heart aligns with survivors of sexual trauma, domestic violence, and clients struggling with eating disorders. I have worked at a women's shelter for domestic and sexual violence, and I have 4+ years of experience working with eating disorders at the residential and outpatient levels of care.
(901) 621-3564 View (901) 621-3564
Photo of Sarah Moats, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Sarah Moats
Pre-Licensed Professional, DPT, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
Sarah’s approach to therapy is founded in her belief that all people have the ability to heal, and she is honored to walk with her clients on their journey towards health. With acceptance, empathy and curiosity, Sarah supports her clients as they uncover, process and heal the emotional wounds at the root of their struggles. She views symptoms through an emotionally focused, attachment-based lens, and utilizes associated evidence-based treatment interventions.
Sarah’s approach to therapy is founded in her belief that all people have the ability to heal, and she is honored to walk with her clients on their journey towards health. With acceptance, empathy and curiosity, Sarah supports her clients as they uncover, process and heal the emotional wounds at the root of their struggles. She views symptoms through an emotionally focused, attachment-based lens, and utilizes associated evidence-based treatment interventions.
(615) 510-1991 View (615) 510-1991
Photo of Kindal Akers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Kindal Akers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
I have received training in using somatic and attachment-based treatment models, including EMDR, SMART, IFS, and TBRI.
I work with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from and cope with the impact of issues like trauma, abuse, grief, loss, adoption, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship struggles, and postpartum and women's issues. I believe every client I see is more than their problems or labels. I complete a thorough assessment, so I can customize treatment to meet clients where they are and help them toward their goals. I also create a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere that allows for reflection and healing.
I have received training in using somatic and attachment-based treatment models, including EMDR, SMART, IFS, and TBRI.
I work with adults and adolescents. I specialize in helping individuals and families heal from and cope with the impact of issues like trauma, abuse, grief, loss, adoption, attachment problems, anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship struggles, and postpartum and women's issues. I believe every client I see is more than their problems or labels. I complete a thorough assessment, so I can customize treatment to meet clients where they are and help them toward their goals. I also create a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere that allows for reflection and healing.
(865) 205-0967 View (865) 205-0967
Photo of Dr. Leigh Pitre, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Dr. Leigh Pitre
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, CH
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
I would like to start off by saying it takes courage to take the first step in your healing journey! I specialize in treating trauma, attachment-based issues, and couples. I take a whole-body approach that helps create and maintain lasting change. My ultimate goal for therapy with my clients is to help create corrective emotional experiences so that healing can occur. Whether that’s on an individual basis, or with a couple and the relational cycle. I truly believe it is an honor to walk alongside my clients throughout the healing process!
I would like to start off by saying it takes courage to take the first step in your healing journey! I specialize in treating trauma, attachment-based issues, and couples. I take a whole-body approach that helps create and maintain lasting change. My ultimate goal for therapy with my clients is to help create corrective emotional experiences so that healing can occur. Whether that’s on an individual basis, or with a couple and the relational cycle. I truly believe it is an honor to walk alongside my clients throughout the healing process!
(901) 617-4260 View (901) 617-4260
Photo of Katie Anthony, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Tennessee
Katie Anthony
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT, (temp)
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I use a trauma-informed approach to therapy, using EMDR, CBT, experiential and attachment-based approaches, depending on your needs and goals.
Therapy is a place to slow down, explore who you are, get unstuck, and engage in the important work of improving your relationships with yourself and others. I am genuinely and deeply interested in you- what experiences have shaped you, how you view the world, yourself and those around you. You and I will explore what is working well for you and what isn't, and will work together to move you toward a life of greater peace, congruency, connection and authenticity. My goal as a therapist is to create a space where you feel safe and fully seen for who have been and who you are today, and who you can be in the future.
I use a trauma-informed approach to therapy, using EMDR, CBT, experiential and attachment-based approaches, depending on your needs and goals.
Therapy is a place to slow down, explore who you are, get unstuck, and engage in the important work of improving your relationships with yourself and others. I am genuinely and deeply interested in you- what experiences have shaped you, how you view the world, yourself and those around you. You and I will explore what is working well for you and what isn't, and will work together to move you toward a life of greater peace, congruency, connection and authenticity. My goal as a therapist is to create a space where you feel safe and fully seen for who have been and who you are today, and who you can be in the future.
(615) 882-4099 View (615) 882-4099
Photo of Charmai Davalos, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Charmai Davalos
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Germantown, TN 38138
I specialize in experiential, attachment-based, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
All relationships have conflict. What differentiates thriving relationships from the declining? Can you repair your bond at the heart level after distress? Is your relationship a place you go to find comfort when life starts to hurt? Does your relationship create the tension necessary for harmony between strength and vulnerability? Strength does not allow you to be used, nor does it bring harm to others. Vulnerability requires risk but it never bullies you to get there. It is movement toward integrity that honors your protections but also challenges you to lay them down to receive care and the gift of being known by another.
I specialize in experiential, attachment-based, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
All relationships have conflict. What differentiates thriving relationships from the declining? Can you repair your bond at the heart level after distress? Is your relationship a place you go to find comfort when life starts to hurt? Does your relationship create the tension necessary for harmony between strength and vulnerability? Strength does not allow you to be used, nor does it bring harm to others. Vulnerability requires risk but it never bullies you to get there. It is movement toward integrity that honors your protections but also challenges you to lay them down to receive care and the gift of being known by another.
(901) 459-5246 View (901) 459-5246
Photo of Carla Ponciroli Babb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Carla Ponciroli Babb
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, ACS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
22 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
My approach includes Emotionally Focused Therapy and Attachment-based techniques for individuals and couples.
I want to help you find your center again. Anxious or depressive thoughts pop up and interrupt the life you are trying to lead. The story you thought was going to play out for your life, somehow just doesn't happen. I want to help you rewrite whatever parts of your narrative aren't working for you. You can find a way toward a better life, but you have to understand how your story impacts the way you show up in your own skin and the way you pursue relationship. If hope feels hard to find, I can help. The life you want can feel more in reach, as you find a better understanding of who you were meant to be.
My approach includes Emotionally Focused Therapy and Attachment-based techniques for individuals and couples.
I want to help you find your center again. Anxious or depressive thoughts pop up and interrupt the life you are trying to lead. The story you thought was going to play out for your life, somehow just doesn't happen. I want to help you rewrite whatever parts of your narrative aren't working for you. You can find a way toward a better life, but you have to understand how your story impacts the way you show up in your own skin and the way you pursue relationship. If hope feels hard to find, I can help. The life you want can feel more in reach, as you find a better understanding of who you were meant to be.
(615) 307-4108 View (615) 307-4108
Photo of Rachel Hammons, Counselor in Tennessee
Rachel Hammons
Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
It’s taken me a long time to write this because I desperately wanted my bio to communicate my heart for counseling, people, and the work that I do, but I also feel that words fall short when you’re trying to communicate something so intimate. First of all, you are brave for taking a step toward deeper healing, and I am honored that you might consider me as a support alongside you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or your 10th time, I hope to encourage and help empower you in your fight to become who you want to be. Whatever next step you decide to take, I hope the best for you.
It’s taken me a long time to write this because I desperately wanted my bio to communicate my heart for counseling, people, and the work that I do, but I also feel that words fall short when you’re trying to communicate something so intimate. First of all, you are brave for taking a step toward deeper healing, and I am honored that you might consider me as a support alongside you in your journey. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling or your 10th time, I hope to encourage and help empower you in your fight to become who you want to be. Whatever next step you decide to take, I hope the best for you.
(615) 471-7560 View (615) 471-7560
Photo of Cassandra Riddle, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Cassandra Riddle
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, Temp
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37404
Her therapeutic style is informed by an eclectic approach, using Solution-Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, and utilizing Attachment-based insight on a foundation of Person-Centered Theory to help clients gain autonomy.
Finding the right person to help with life’s problems can be an overwhelming task. Aided by her warmth and authenticity, Cassandra creates an environment where clients feel supported and empowered to share their experiences. She has decades of life experience working with adolescents and adults across multiple settings, which informs her practice. Cassandra works with clients who have experienced a life change, trauma, grief/loss and are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and/or depression. She provides individual therapy for adolescents, adults as well as couples therapy.
Her therapeutic style is informed by an eclectic approach, using Solution-Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, and utilizing Attachment-based insight on a foundation of Person-Centered Theory to help clients gain autonomy.
Finding the right person to help with life’s problems can be an overwhelming task. Aided by her warmth and authenticity, Cassandra creates an environment where clients feel supported and empowered to share their experiences. She has decades of life experience working with adolescents and adults across multiple settings, which informs her practice. Cassandra works with clients who have experienced a life change, trauma, grief/loss and are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and/or depression. She provides individual therapy for adolescents, adults as well as couples therapy.
(754) 220-5946 View (754) 220-5946
Photo of Katherine Ladshaw, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Katherine Ladshaw
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in navigating women’s issues, and work from an attachment-based and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens, with a holistic approach, emphasizing integration of mind, body and spirituality.
In therapy, we work together to uncover and understand the impact of your journey on the way you view yourself, the world and your spirituality. We all need space and support to grow into the best version of ourselves and I have found that therapy can offer invaluable tools and insight for that growth. I believe that we have each been given the strength to overcome our stories and live fulfilling lives that reflect our values. I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing anxiety and depression, those navigating addiction, those affected by the addictions of loved ones, and those seeking healing from trauma.
I specialize in navigating women’s issues, and work from an attachment-based and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) lens, with a holistic approach, emphasizing integration of mind, body and spirituality.
In therapy, we work together to uncover and understand the impact of your journey on the way you view yourself, the world and your spirituality. We all need space and support to grow into the best version of ourselves and I have found that therapy can offer invaluable tools and insight for that growth. I believe that we have each been given the strength to overcome our stories and live fulfilling lives that reflect our values. I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing anxiety and depression, those navigating addiction, those affected by the addictions of loved ones, and those seeking healing from trauma.
(629) 258-7840 View (629) 258-7840
Photo of Courtney Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Courtney Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Smyrna, TN 37167
I embrace a humanistic, emotional, and attachment-based approach.
My passion involves helping couples and individuals navigate the complexities of life. Do you feel stuck in a stagnant relationship or frustrated with unresolved issues? Long for connection but feel isolated? I can help couples break negative patterns, enhance communication, and rebuild intimacy to establish emotional safety for growth and connection. Perhaps you are facing personal challenges? Do you feel trapped in worry, lost in what-ifs, feel invisible tension in your body, or are overwhelmed with simple tasks? Let's explore the roots of your struggles, work together to alleviate symptoms, and find a path toward healing.
I embrace a humanistic, emotional, and attachment-based approach.
My passion involves helping couples and individuals navigate the complexities of life. Do you feel stuck in a stagnant relationship or frustrated with unresolved issues? Long for connection but feel isolated? I can help couples break negative patterns, enhance communication, and rebuild intimacy to establish emotional safety for growth and connection. Perhaps you are facing personal challenges? Do you feel trapped in worry, lost in what-ifs, feel invisible tension in your body, or are overwhelmed with simple tasks? Let's explore the roots of your struggles, work together to alleviate symptoms, and find a path toward healing.
(629) 209-0840 View (629) 209-0840
Photo of Molly Akin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Molly Akin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38104
EFT is an attachment-based model focusing on rebuilding and strengthening the connection between partners so that they can feel safe and trust each other more.
Many experiences in life can motivate us to look for support―a difficult current or past relationship, overwhelming stress, unprocessed trauma, or maybe just a sense of being stuck. You aren't alone. My hope is that you find in me a nonjudgmental, caring presence to listen and help you process whatever pain or disconnection you might be experiencing. My aim is to guide you toward the wholeness you seek.
EFT is an attachment-based model focusing on rebuilding and strengthening the connection between partners so that they can feel safe and trust each other more.
Many experiences in life can motivate us to look for support―a difficult current or past relationship, overwhelming stress, unprocessed trauma, or maybe just a sense of being stuck. You aren't alone. My hope is that you find in me a nonjudgmental, caring presence to listen and help you process whatever pain or disconnection you might be experiencing. My aim is to guide you toward the wholeness you seek.
(901) 245-5627 View (901) 245-5627
Photo of Laura M. Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Laura M. Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206
I include elements of IFS or "parts work," EMDR, and attachment-based therapy in my work.
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you’re here. I recognize that finding a new therapist takes courage. My primarily goal is to create a calm, safe, non-judgmental space where every part of you feels welcomed. I empower individuals by being curious about their experiences, understanding their goals, and celebrating all the victories - big or small. As a trauma therapist, I know how easy it is to feel disconnected, fragmented, or isolated. Therapy is an incredible tool for restoring your sense of self and healing the parts of you that experience pain.
I include elements of IFS or "parts work," EMDR, and attachment-based therapy in my work.
Hello and welcome! I am so glad you’re here. I recognize that finding a new therapist takes courage. My primarily goal is to create a calm, safe, non-judgmental space where every part of you feels welcomed. I empower individuals by being curious about their experiences, understanding their goals, and celebrating all the victories - big or small. As a trauma therapist, I know how easy it is to feel disconnected, fragmented, or isolated. Therapy is an incredible tool for restoring your sense of self and healing the parts of you that experience pain.
(615) 379-9470 View (615) 379-9470
Photo of Ashton Ross, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Ashton Ross
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, MHSP(T)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I utilize a person-centered approach and an attachment-based lens, and incorporate Narrative, IFS, CBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and experiential techniques to explore effective ways to break through wounds and empower clients to reach a deeper level of functioning and wholeness.
Are you tired of feeling stuck, hopeless, and disconnected? I've been there too. I am passionate about helping individuals gain a greater sense of peace, inner freedom, and cultivating a deeper connection with self and others. My heart is to provide compassionate and holistic care to my clients throughout their healing journey. I work with individuals and couples with a variety of presenting issues including, C-PTSD/Trauma, Relational trauma & Narcissistic Abuse, Anxiety, Relationship Anxiety, Depression, Relationship challenges, Family Conflict, Attachment wounds, Codependency, Low self-esteem, Perfectionism, and life transitions.
I utilize a person-centered approach and an attachment-based lens, and incorporate Narrative, IFS, CBT, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and experiential techniques to explore effective ways to break through wounds and empower clients to reach a deeper level of functioning and wholeness.
Are you tired of feeling stuck, hopeless, and disconnected? I've been there too. I am passionate about helping individuals gain a greater sense of peace, inner freedom, and cultivating a deeper connection with self and others. My heart is to provide compassionate and holistic care to my clients throughout their healing journey. I work with individuals and couples with a variety of presenting issues including, C-PTSD/Trauma, Relational trauma & Narcissistic Abuse, Anxiety, Relationship Anxiety, Depression, Relationship challenges, Family Conflict, Attachment wounds, Codependency, Low self-esteem, Perfectionism, and life transitions.
(629) 276-4631 View (629) 276-4631
Photo of Ericka Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Ericka Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
My therapeutic approach consist of utilizing trauma-informed and attachment-based modalities.
My ideal clients are those who have experienced abuse or neglect in childhood and mothers experiencing a perinatal mood disorder. Do you struggle with feelings of anger, hopelessness, or isolation, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, anxiety, or depression? Maybe your partner or children trigger emotional responses from you that you want change. If you're ready to break the cycle, take control and ownership of your emotions, go from reacting to responding, heal your inner child, and become the best version of yourself, let's begin the journey together.
My therapeutic approach consist of utilizing trauma-informed and attachment-based modalities.
My ideal clients are those who have experienced abuse or neglect in childhood and mothers experiencing a perinatal mood disorder. Do you struggle with feelings of anger, hopelessness, or isolation, intrusive thoughts, nightmares, anxiety, or depression? Maybe your partner or children trigger emotional responses from you that you want change. If you're ready to break the cycle, take control and ownership of your emotions, go from reacting to responding, heal your inner child, and become the best version of yourself, let's begin the journey together.
(931) 368-8444 View (931) 368-8444
Photo of Rachel Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Rachel Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate skill-building, somatic and attachment-based work as well, as I firmly believe we are holistic creatures requiring holistic care.
Hello! Helping individuals to heal from their pasts and grow into the best version of themselves is something I truly love. Today, we know that trauma settles into our brains and bodies in ways that time cannot fully heal (despite the old adage, “time heals everything”) . Would you like to be more present in your daily life, have a healthier relationship to yourself and others? I would love to work together to help you heal from your past, so that you can live life more fully today.
I integrate skill-building, somatic and attachment-based work as well, as I firmly believe we are holistic creatures requiring holistic care.
Hello! Helping individuals to heal from their pasts and grow into the best version of themselves is something I truly love. Today, we know that trauma settles into our brains and bodies in ways that time cannot fully heal (despite the old adage, “time heals everything”) . Would you like to be more present in your daily life, have a healthier relationship to yourself and others? I would love to work together to help you heal from your past, so that you can live life more fully today.
(865) 328-9538 View (865) 328-9538
Photo of Alyssa Birmingham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Alyssa Birmingham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
There is something beautiful about becoming the most authentic version of yourself. My passion lies in helping individuals and couples work to uncover what is keeping them stuck and develop a more fulfilling life. Through therapy, we will develop a relationship where you feel heard, understood, and respected while working to recognize and change the unhelpful thoughts, behaviors, and patterns in your life that are no longer serving you. Our sessions will feel like a conversation, where I will offer a fresh perspective and tangible ways to achieve your therapy goals.
There is something beautiful about becoming the most authentic version of yourself. My passion lies in helping individuals and couples work to uncover what is keeping them stuck and develop a more fulfilling life. Through therapy, we will develop a relationship where you feel heard, understood, and respected while working to recognize and change the unhelpful thoughts, behaviors, and patterns in your life that are no longer serving you. Our sessions will feel like a conversation, where I will offer a fresh perspective and tangible ways to achieve your therapy goals.
(615) 784-5752 View (615) 784-5752
Photo of Tally Peters Warren, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Tally Peters Warren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I approach therapy from an attachment-based lens and use play therapy techniques with children.
Life's transitions are challenging - especially for kids. Whether it's a major life-changing event like adoption, divorce, or trauma, or the day-to-day tasks like getting dressed or going to school, many kids need some extra support to navigate their worlds. Your child may be acting out with big behaviors, recovering from a traumatic event, transitioning into a new home, or processing difficult emotions. Your teen may be feeling isolated and depressed, lashing out in anger, or struggling to manage their responsibilities. Whatever the case may be, they need your support.
I approach therapy from an attachment-based lens and use play therapy techniques with children.
Life's transitions are challenging - especially for kids. Whether it's a major life-changing event like adoption, divorce, or trauma, or the day-to-day tasks like getting dressed or going to school, many kids need some extra support to navigate their worlds. Your child may be acting out with big behaviors, recovering from a traumatic event, transitioning into a new home, or processing difficult emotions. Your teen may be feeling isolated and depressed, lashing out in anger, or struggling to manage their responsibilities. Whatever the case may be, they need your support.
(615) 819-5793 View (615) 819-5793
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.