Attachment-based Therapists in Tennessee

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 Patrick Oellerich, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Patrick Oellerich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
I am trained in Attachment-based Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy as well as specifically trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Hey there! I'm a therapist that specializes in couple's therapy and individual therapy for men ages 15-35. My primary expertise are in trauma reprocessing/integration, infidelity recovery/repair, and attachment maintenance in family systems. On any given day you could find me helping a young man processing life's struggles, a couple seeking healing from a constant sense of disconnection, or a family needing deeper connection through new experiences of one another. Whatever the situation, I love coming alongside others to journey with them towards wholeheartedness.
I am trained in Attachment-based Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy as well as specifically trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Hey there! I'm a therapist that specializes in couple's therapy and individual therapy for men ages 15-35. My primary expertise are in trauma reprocessing/integration, infidelity recovery/repair, and attachment maintenance in family systems. On any given day you could find me helping a young man processing life's struggles, a couple seeking healing from a constant sense of disconnection, or a family needing deeper connection through new experiences of one another. Whatever the situation, I love coming alongside others to journey with them towards wholeheartedness.
(423) 220-4508 View (423) 220-4508
Photo of Marlee Harb, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Marlee Harb
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
From a place of acceptance, I use a holistic lens and attachment-based, experiential interventions to invite the brain and body to rewire unhelpful narratives.
I love working with teens & adult individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, the impacts of trauma, self worth issues, and women’s issues. It can be overwhelming to sort through all the old thoughts, emotions, and relationship patterns on our own. You deserve a supportive place to find your truth & the space to heal.
From a place of acceptance, I use a holistic lens and attachment-based, experiential interventions to invite the brain and body to rewire unhelpful narratives.
I love working with teens & adult individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, the impacts of trauma, self worth issues, and women’s issues. It can be overwhelming to sort through all the old thoughts, emotions, and relationship patterns on our own. You deserve a supportive place to find your truth & the space to heal.
(423) 436-9046 View (423) 436-9046
Photo of Dave Flowers, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Tennessee
Dave Flowers
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
I specialize in experiential, attachment-based therapy, and I am trained in EMDR.
After a brief stint as a touring musician and 20 years in the equipment finance industry, I finally found my perfect work-fit: helping families find healing from previous hurts, cope and move through current life difficulties, and prepare for a healthy future. I work with children and young adults who are dealing with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and grief/loss. As a parent, myself, I understand that when our children struggle, we struggle as well. So, I provide support to parents who are navigating difficult challenges with their children.
I specialize in experiential, attachment-based therapy, and I am trained in EMDR.
After a brief stint as a touring musician and 20 years in the equipment finance industry, I finally found my perfect work-fit: helping families find healing from previous hurts, cope and move through current life difficulties, and prepare for a healthy future. I work with children and young adults who are dealing with trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and grief/loss. As a parent, myself, I understand that when our children struggle, we struggle as well. So, I provide support to parents who are navigating difficult challenges with their children.
(615) 805-6478 View (615) 805-6478
Photo of Katie Meier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Katie Meier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
My approach to counseling is attachment-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed.
My greatest hope is to create a safe space where you feel seen, valued, and affirmed – we all need and deserve that support in our lives! During our time together, my goal is for you to gain a greater understanding of yourself, adaptive ways of thinking, and tangible coping tools to help you ride the waves of life. I work with young adults, teens, and children (ages 3 and up). I have a passion for supporting clients with anxiety, anger, emotional literacy and regulation, grief and loss, self-compassion, and self-esteem through individual and group counseling.
My approach to counseling is attachment-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed.
My greatest hope is to create a safe space where you feel seen, valued, and affirmed – we all need and deserve that support in our lives! During our time together, my goal is for you to gain a greater understanding of yourself, adaptive ways of thinking, and tangible coping tools to help you ride the waves of life. I work with young adults, teens, and children (ages 3 and up). I have a passion for supporting clients with anxiety, anger, emotional literacy and regulation, grief and loss, self-compassion, and self-esteem through individual and group counseling.
(615) 802-7442 View (615) 802-7442
Photo of Joash Koh, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Tennessee
Joash Koh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, TLMFT, MMFT, MAPC, EFT-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211  (Online Only)
My approach is grounded in emotion-focused, attachment-based modalities and integrates somatic experiencing, blending existential and spiritual philosophies.
I curate my sessions to help you navigate these difficulties, allowing you to live with a greater sense of safety, connection, and satisfaction. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationships and intimacy. With years of clinical experience, I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, feeling stuck, or relationship issues, including infidelity, complex trauma, and abuse. I have many years of clinical experience working with diverse individuals and couples. My clients love my authenticity and healing space to rejuvenate and grow in effective therapy that aligns with their goals and values.
My approach is grounded in emotion-focused, attachment-based modalities and integrates somatic experiencing, blending existential and spiritual philosophies.
I curate my sessions to help you navigate these difficulties, allowing you to live with a greater sense of safety, connection, and satisfaction. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationships and intimacy. With years of clinical experience, I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, feeling stuck, or relationship issues, including infidelity, complex trauma, and abuse. I have many years of clinical experience working with diverse individuals and couples. My clients love my authenticity and healing space to rejuvenate and grow in effective therapy that aligns with their goals and values.
(615) 845-6236 View (615) 845-6236
Photo of Erinn King, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Erinn King
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
My aim is to support you through whatever roadblocks you may be currently facing and join you in working towards your goals. I typically work with couples, and adult individuals. My own pursuit of authenticity looks like prioritizing deeply felt connection and a life ripe with meaning. I use an attachment based lens of Emotionally Focused Therapy to create a safe space to facilitate change and encourage the process of discovery. To learn more, please visit Healing Hearts Counseling.
My aim is to support you through whatever roadblocks you may be currently facing and join you in working towards your goals. I typically work with couples, and adult individuals. My own pursuit of authenticity looks like prioritizing deeply felt connection and a life ripe with meaning. I use an attachment based lens of Emotionally Focused Therapy to create a safe space to facilitate change and encourage the process of discovery. To learn more, please visit Healing Hearts Counseling.
(865) 328-2294 View (865) 328-2294
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 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 Light Bulb Counseling & Consulting: Janee' Winbush, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Light Bulb Counseling & Consulting: Janee' Winbush
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Brunswick, TN 38014  (Online Only)
It takes courage to own your story and narrate it for the very first time. I enjoy helping clients make sense of their life stories. Let's discover how those narratives drive your current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We can collaboratively work to create new meanings for those old stories using components of cognitive-behavioral, timeline, attachment based, and narrative therapies. I am also trained in Level One Gottman therapy for marriage and couples' issues. I am here to support and empower you as you take those first steps towards change.
It takes courage to own your story and narrate it for the very first time. I enjoy helping clients make sense of their life stories. Let's discover how those narratives drive your current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. We can collaboratively work to create new meanings for those old stories using components of cognitive-behavioral, timeline, attachment based, and narrative therapies. I am also trained in Level One Gottman therapy for marriage and couples' issues. I am here to support and empower you as you take those first steps towards change.
(901) 676-8671 View (901) 676-8671
Photo of Dr. Constance Ratcliff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Dr. Constance Ratcliff
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, RPT/S, LPC/S
Verified Verified
Ocoee, TN 37361  (Online Only)
I offer Telemental Health therapy services utilizing evidenced based play therapy and systemic therapeutic approaches with children ages 8-18, parents and families facing a variety of life challenges including grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, parental divorce and/or family adjustment stressors as well as pre-marital and couples counseling during various life stages. I assist clients to address current life stressors for achieving emotional, social, relational, behavioral growth, resiliency and well being. Additionally I offer LMFT and RPT Supervision for Masters, Doctoral and Post-Graduate level interns.
I offer Telemental Health therapy services utilizing evidenced based play therapy and systemic therapeutic approaches with children ages 8-18, parents and families facing a variety of life challenges including grief, loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, parental divorce and/or family adjustment stressors as well as pre-marital and couples counseling during various life stages. I assist clients to address current life stressors for achieving emotional, social, relational, behavioral growth, resiliency and well being. Additionally I offer LMFT and RPT Supervision for Masters, Doctoral and Post-Graduate level interns.
(423) 455-5348 View (423) 455-5348
Photo of Elizabeth J. Burton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Elizabeth J. Burton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Waitlist for new clients
My therapy style is client-centered and attachment-based, integrating individualized therapeutic approaches.
Hi! I’m Elizabeth and am so glad you are here looking for a safe space to heal and process life. I support adults and adolescents (16+) navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, grief, behavioral issues, and trauma recovery. I specialize in therapy for attachment & relationship dynamics, trauma & abuse, and perinatal mood & anxiety disorders for expectant and postpartum parents.
My therapy style is client-centered and attachment-based, integrating individualized therapeutic approaches.
Hi! I’m Elizabeth and am so glad you are here looking for a safe space to heal and process life. I support adults and adolescents (16+) navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, grief, behavioral issues, and trauma recovery. I specialize in therapy for attachment & relationship dynamics, trauma & abuse, and perinatal mood & anxiety disorders for expectant and postpartum parents.
(615) 209-9225 View (615) 209-9225
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
Photo of Allison Hunnicutt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Allison Hunnicutt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP, CSAT-S, CMAT
Verified Verified
Murfreesboro, TN 37128
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see men and women whose lives have spiraled out of control become desperate for help. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
In my personal and professional life, I have found one thing to be true: Life can be hard. I have a passion for supporting others in resolving pain and reclaiming fullness in life. While pain is an inevitable part of the human experience, suffering is optional. I am dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families heal from relational and other traumas, problematic sexual behaviors, addictions, and intimacy disorders. I see men and women whose lives have spiraled out of control become desperate for help. I see brokenhearted adults and children as they learn to cope with an unstable world. My heart is to heal the broken hearted and give hope where hope was once lost.
(615) 488-5389 View (615) 488-5389
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 Ruth Bryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Ruth Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215
I practice from an attachment-based psychodynamic perspective while also using interventions inspired by cognitive behavioral therapy and relational approaches.
As a therapist, I approach our work together with warmth and curiosity. I seek to nurture a holding space that feels safe to address whatever unique concerns you bring, starting with your present concerns and also facilitating interest in your deeper self. I believe each of us has the courage to successfully navigate the change that we seek, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside you in that endeavor.  I enjoy working with adults dealing with life transitions, grief and loss, family of origin concerns, relationship issues, trauma, and anxiety among other concerns.
I practice from an attachment-based psychodynamic perspective while also using interventions inspired by cognitive behavioral therapy and relational approaches.
As a therapist, I approach our work together with warmth and curiosity. I seek to nurture a holding space that feels safe to address whatever unique concerns you bring, starting with your present concerns and also facilitating interest in your deeper self. I believe each of us has the courage to successfully navigate the change that we seek, and I consider it a privilege to walk alongside you in that endeavor.  I enjoy working with adults dealing with life transitions, grief and loss, family of origin concerns, relationship issues, trauma, and anxiety among other concerns.
(615) 975-2438 View (615) 975-2438
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 Hopesmith Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Hopesmith Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Dickson, TN 37055
I use attachment-based experiential therapy for couples and individuals and am trained in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Is your life or relationship stuck? Are you ready to make a change? Is there a better version of yourself out there someplace that you left behind or maybe that you have never even met before? If you are ready to make a change or just ready to make sense of your story then lets work together!
I use attachment-based experiential therapy for couples and individuals and am trained in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Is your life or relationship stuck? Are you ready to make a change? Is there a better version of yourself out there someplace that you left behind or maybe that you have never even met before? If you are ready to make a change or just ready to make sense of your story then lets work together!
(615) 685-6710 View (615) 685-6710
Photo of Megan Tresh, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Tennessee
Megan Tresh
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
Embracing life's uncertainties, transitions, & unmet expectations can be challenging, but we are able to move forward with meaning & purpose. Sometimes building a level of resilience & mental fortitude is required for us to progress. By using an underlying attachment-based approach, I’m able to provide therapeutic services that are safe, authentic, & non-judgemental to allow for healing & growth. I have found that tailoring the modalities used to each client provides positive outcomes in various situations. EMDR, exposure & response prevention (ERP), experiential activities, & play therapy are among those that I am trained in.
Embracing life's uncertainties, transitions, & unmet expectations can be challenging, but we are able to move forward with meaning & purpose. Sometimes building a level of resilience & mental fortitude is required for us to progress. By using an underlying attachment-based approach, I’m able to provide therapeutic services that are safe, authentic, & non-judgemental to allow for healing & growth. I have found that tailoring the modalities used to each client provides positive outcomes in various situations. EMDR, exposure & response prevention (ERP), experiential activities, & play therapy are among those that I am trained in.
(423) 370-0124 View (423) 370-0124
Photo of Taylor Borck Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Tennessee
Taylor Borck Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
With specialized training in AS and individuals with ADHD, I utilize several modalities including an attachment-based approach in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT and EFIT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, Narrative, and Experiential therapies.
I work with neurodivergent teens and adults (Autism and ADHD) as well was a wide range of clients who have experienced trauma, issues in their family dynamic, communication, peer groups, self-esteem, and relationships. I am most passionate about working with individuals as they explore the deep parts of themselves and uncover new insights. Many of my clients work to improve relationships, gain tools and strategies for day to day struggles, and explore, process, and find healing from past traumas and old wounds.
With specialized training in AS and individuals with ADHD, I utilize several modalities including an attachment-based approach in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT and EFIT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, Narrative, and Experiential therapies.
I work with neurodivergent teens and adults (Autism and ADHD) as well was a wide range of clients who have experienced trauma, issues in their family dynamic, communication, peer groups, self-esteem, and relationships. I am most passionate about working with individuals as they explore the deep parts of themselves and uncover new insights. Many of my clients work to improve relationships, gain tools and strategies for day to day struggles, and explore, process, and find healing from past traumas and old wounds.
(629) 217-0765 View (629) 217-0765
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.