Photo of Jessie Gladden, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Jessie Gladden
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-t
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I work with my clients to challenge negative core beliefs, heal attachment-based wounds and guide the restoration of relationship to self and others.
After experiencing my own life-changing therapeutic journey, it is my greatest honor to hold space for others during theirs. I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples and families to facilitate healing from trauma, codependency, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, intimacy issues, maladaptive coping skills, partner betrayal, low self-worth and life transitions.
I work with my clients to challenge negative core beliefs, heal attachment-based wounds and guide the restoration of relationship to self and others.
After experiencing my own life-changing therapeutic journey, it is my greatest honor to hold space for others during theirs. I enjoy working with adults, teens, couples and families to facilitate healing from trauma, codependency, eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, intimacy issues, maladaptive coping skills, partner betrayal, low self-worth and life transitions.
(615) 551-3659 View (615) 551-3659
Photo of Frank Bunner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Frank Bunner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209
Our life and relationship experiences can take us to places where we feel stuck, hopeless and overwhelmed. My therapy practice exists to provide a safe place for you to explore, listen, reconnect, and experience change. I have experience working with couples, individuals, and families who are dealing with disconnection in relationship, infidelity, unhealthy conflict, failures in communication, trauma, grief, divorce, depression, anxiety, and difficult life transitions. My aim is to provide you with a therapeutic space where you can experience yourself and others in a new, hopeful, transformative way.
Our life and relationship experiences can take us to places where we feel stuck, hopeless and overwhelmed. My therapy practice exists to provide a safe place for you to explore, listen, reconnect, and experience change. I have experience working with couples, individuals, and families who are dealing with disconnection in relationship, infidelity, unhealthy conflict, failures in communication, trauma, grief, divorce, depression, anxiety, and difficult life transitions. My aim is to provide you with a therapeutic space where you can experience yourself and others in a new, hopeful, transformative way.
(615) 265-6044 View (615) 265-6044
Photo of Ruth Bryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
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 Alyssa Walden Durdunji, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Alyssa Walden Durdunji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Through a collaborative process, integrating cognitive-behavioral, emotionally-focused, attachment-based, and trauma interventions, my clients and I work to find insight and develop skills that lead to healing.
I am passionate about seeing lives and relationships restored. I recognize the courage it takes to come to therapy and believe that transformation happens in the context of relationships when people feel heard and understood. My hope is to invite clients into a safe space where we have the opportunity to honestly confront painful and uncomfortable issues.
Through a collaborative process, integrating cognitive-behavioral, emotionally-focused, attachment-based, and trauma interventions, my clients and I work to find insight and develop skills that lead to healing.
I am passionate about seeing lives and relationships restored. I recognize the courage it takes to come to therapy and believe that transformation happens in the context of relationships when people feel heard and understood. My hope is to invite clients into a safe space where we have the opportunity to honestly confront painful and uncomfortable issues.
(615) 455-2540 View (615) 455-2540
Photo of Samantha Jervey, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Samantha Jervey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
In other words, I look at each client and their stuck points through an attachment-based, generational lens.
From personal experience, I know that finding the right therapist can take time and energy - two things that often feel far away when you're navigating overwhelming burnout, grief, and/or life changes. Or perhaps asking for help feels incredibly foreign and you're the one who's used to having it together... though that's a testament to your strength, I'm here to tell you that you don't have to shoulder that burden alone. It is my hope that the therapeutic relationship can serve as a place where your body, mind, and spirit can rest, reattune, and find renewed strength for the journey ahead.
In other words, I look at each client and their stuck points through an attachment-based, generational lens.
From personal experience, I know that finding the right therapist can take time and energy - two things that often feel far away when you're navigating overwhelming burnout, grief, and/or life changes. Or perhaps asking for help feels incredibly foreign and you're the one who's used to having it together... though that's a testament to your strength, I'm here to tell you that you don't have to shoulder that burden alone. It is my hope that the therapeutic relationship can serve as a place where your body, mind, and spirit can rest, reattune, and find renewed strength for the journey ahead.
(615) 703-5837 View (615) 703-5837
Photo of Joash Koh, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nashville, TN
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 Laura M. Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
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 Nashville, TN
Ashton Ross
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC, MHSP(T)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
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 Taylor Borck Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nashville, TN
Taylor Borck Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37210
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
Photo of Heather Lefebvre, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Heather Lefebvre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, (Temp)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
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 Angela Thompson Counseling, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nashville, TN
Angela Thompson Counseling, MMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201
My desire is to offer hope and healing for you and your relationships by honoring your story, helping you discover places you are stuck, and walking along side you in your journey to healing. I see individuals, couples, and families, providing a safe place to explore hurt and pain on your path to wholeness and peace. I am trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), EMDR, Murray Method Trauma Certified level 1 & 2, and implement attachment-based therapy in my practice. Serving as a nurse for 30 years allowed me to sit with people through some of their darkest moments, while providing encouragement and hope.
My desire is to offer hope and healing for you and your relationships by honoring your story, helping you discover places you are stuck, and walking along side you in your journey to healing. I see individuals, couples, and families, providing a safe place to explore hurt and pain on your path to wholeness and peace. I am trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), EMDR, Murray Method Trauma Certified level 1 & 2, and implement attachment-based therapy in my practice. Serving as a nurse for 30 years allowed me to sit with people through some of their darkest moments, while providing encouragement and hope.
(615) 436-5930 View (615) 436-5930
Photo of Liz Rainer, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Liz Rainer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I work from a primarily attachment-based and interpersonal approach.
Hello! I am a Nashville therapist for adults, adolescents, and couples. I hold a master's degree in marriage and family therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgemental environment where individuals can share all parts of themselves and be met with acceptance and understanding. My style is relational, meaning I desire to create a space to truly listen and engage with clients and work collaboratively as a team. I am comfortable utilizing an integrated approach that synthesizes my Christian values with research based practices if desired.
I work from a primarily attachment-based and interpersonal approach.
Hello! I am a Nashville therapist for adults, adolescents, and couples. I hold a master's degree in marriage and family therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary. I aim to create a safe, nonjudgemental environment where individuals can share all parts of themselves and be met with acceptance and understanding. My style is relational, meaning I desire to create a space to truly listen and engage with clients and work collaboratively as a team. I am comfortable utilizing an integrated approach that synthesizes my Christian values with research based practices if desired.
(615) 667-9270 View (615) 667-9270
Photo of Kaycee Whiteside, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Kaycee Whiteside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
I am passionate about empowering folks to live a life full of meaning and connection. At the core of my client work is the desire to support people in feeling safer in their bodies, more secure in their relationships, and more fully present in their day-to-day lives. My purpose is to provide you with a welcoming & supportive space, compassionate perspective, and valuable tools to guide you in developing more self-kindness, feeling safer in your body, improving your relationships, and designing a life worth living on your own terms.
I am passionate about empowering folks to live a life full of meaning and connection. At the core of my client work is the desire to support people in feeling safer in their bodies, more secure in their relationships, and more fully present in their day-to-day lives. My purpose is to provide you with a welcoming & supportive space, compassionate perspective, and valuable tools to guide you in developing more self-kindness, feeling safer in your body, improving your relationships, and designing a life worth living on your own terms.
(615) 437-5936 View (615) 437-5936
Photo of Natalie Hoyt, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Natalie Hoyt
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Every individual is worthy of healing and peace, and my favorite part about working with clients is working with them as they find the courage to live out this belief. Journeys of healing are sometimes scary, so using a holistic and collaborative approach, I endeavor to create a space that is nonjudgmental, safe, and peaceful as I aid clients in their work. My approach to therapy includes a combination of evidence-based practices including Restoration therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, as well as Gottman Method interventions, common factors, and the expressive arts.
Every individual is worthy of healing and peace, and my favorite part about working with clients is working with them as they find the courage to live out this belief. Journeys of healing are sometimes scary, so using a holistic and collaborative approach, I endeavor to create a space that is nonjudgmental, safe, and peaceful as I aid clients in their work. My approach to therapy includes a combination of evidence-based practices including Restoration therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, as well as Gottman Method interventions, common factors, and the expressive arts.
(615) 205-9589 View (615) 205-9589
Photo of Tonya Mills, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Tonya Mills
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
If you feel you sometimes get in the way of your own happiness, or find yourself repeating relationship patterns that are ineffective, I may be a good fit for you. Whether the difficulty is past trauma or present circumstances, I enjoy working with individuals who long to create a healthier connection with themselves and others. Disconnectedness can result in anxiety, isolation, depression or addiction. I understand the panic and fear that surfaces when my clients have been hurt by themselves or by those they love the most. I create a safe space for them to process difficult experiences, while learning to live a more fulfilled life
If you feel you sometimes get in the way of your own happiness, or find yourself repeating relationship patterns that are ineffective, I may be a good fit for you. Whether the difficulty is past trauma or present circumstances, I enjoy working with individuals who long to create a healthier connection with themselves and others. Disconnectedness can result in anxiety, isolation, depression or addiction. I understand the panic and fear that surfaces when my clients have been hurt by themselves or by those they love the most. I create a safe space for them to process difficult experiences, while learning to live a more fulfilled life
(615) 307-4123 View (615) 307-4123
Photo of Allison Dowsley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Allison Dowsley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Hazel House, PLLC is a holistic, integrative center that uses multiple modalities to treat people affected by trauma, addiction, mental health concerns, and stress. Our mission is to facilitate the natural healing process in each individual who seeks our care, by offering compassionate connection alongside skilled interventions targeting body, mind, and spirit. Services include: Counseling / Therapy, Yoga, Acupuncture, Health Coaching / Functional Nutrition, Holistic Bodywork, Neurofeedback, and other natural treatments.
Hazel House, PLLC is a holistic, integrative center that uses multiple modalities to treat people affected by trauma, addiction, mental health concerns, and stress. Our mission is to facilitate the natural healing process in each individual who seeks our care, by offering compassionate connection alongside skilled interventions targeting body, mind, and spirit. Services include: Counseling / Therapy, Yoga, Acupuncture, Health Coaching / Functional Nutrition, Holistic Bodywork, Neurofeedback, and other natural treatments.
(615) 603-3468 View (615) 603-3468
Photo of Sean Coyle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Sean Coyle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, PTSD/trauma, motivation & life adjustments. It is not uncommon to find ourselves stuck or overwhelmed. We've often learned to neglect ourselves, our needs, and feel unable to call upon others when we need help. Many of us battle with feelings of shame and speak to ourselves in a critical voice. I believe this often comes from a place of wounding from our past that drives us further away from our true, authentic self. When we can learn how to care for ourselves in the way we needed in the past, we can shift our beliefs of ourselves and who we are in relation to others
I help clients struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, PTSD/trauma, motivation & life adjustments. It is not uncommon to find ourselves stuck or overwhelmed. We've often learned to neglect ourselves, our needs, and feel unable to call upon others when we need help. Many of us battle with feelings of shame and speak to ourselves in a critical voice. I believe this often comes from a place of wounding from our past that drives us further away from our true, authentic self. When we can learn how to care for ourselves in the way we needed in the past, we can shift our beliefs of ourselves and who we are in relation to others
(615) 576-3751 View (615) 576-3751
Photo of Jordan Sanders, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Jordan Sanders
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS, LPC, MHSP, (Temp)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Are you struggling against an internal voice that says you aren’t good enough or worthy of love and acceptance for who you are? You may have heard this voice from others in your home, school, or on TV growing up, which turned this voice into beliefs that leave parts of you feeling unseen, unheard, and unloved. This is a common story for many people, however, it doesn't reflect the authentic nature of who you are. You are powerful, you are lovable, and you are worthy. In our time together, I will help you reconnect with your true Self by providing a safe, accepting, and judgment-free environment.
Are you struggling against an internal voice that says you aren’t good enough or worthy of love and acceptance for who you are? You may have heard this voice from others in your home, school, or on TV growing up, which turned this voice into beliefs that leave parts of you feeling unseen, unheard, and unloved. This is a common story for many people, however, it doesn't reflect the authentic nature of who you are. You are powerful, you are lovable, and you are worthy. In our time together, I will help you reconnect with your true Self by providing a safe, accepting, and judgment-free environment.
(615) 205-4171 View (615) 205-4171
Photo of David Montgomery Harb, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
David Montgomery Harb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Hi, I’m David. As the founder and clinical director of Nashville Therapy Group, I can match you with a gifted therapist who is the best fit for your unique needs, or if you think we’re the right fit, we can work together as you make your way towards lasting positive change. As your therapist, we’ll explore your thoughts and feelings, and I’ll offer a fresh perspective using the latest evidence-based interventions. We will identify your potential for growth and challenge the beliefs and behaviors that keep you and your loved ones from experiencing happiness, harmony, and health.
Hi, I’m David. As the founder and clinical director of Nashville Therapy Group, I can match you with a gifted therapist who is the best fit for your unique needs, or if you think we’re the right fit, we can work together as you make your way towards lasting positive change. As your therapist, we’ll explore your thoughts and feelings, and I’ll offer a fresh perspective using the latest evidence-based interventions. We will identify your potential for growth and challenge the beliefs and behaviors that keep you and your loved ones from experiencing happiness, harmony, and health.
(615) 697-4781 View (615) 697-4781
Photo of Samantha Hymes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Samantha Hymes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Do you find yourself ruminating over the past and feeling embarrassed, anxious, or depressed for “not being over it"? Perhaps you learned to compartmentalize your emotions to cope. I work with my clients to hone their emotional awareness and create space to meet, understand, and process parts of their lives that have been put aside to survive.
Do you find yourself ruminating over the past and feeling embarrassed, anxious, or depressed for “not being over it"? Perhaps you learned to compartmentalize your emotions to cope. I work with my clients to hone their emotional awareness and create space to meet, understand, and process parts of their lives that have been put aside to survive.
(615) 258-6249 View (615) 258-6249
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.