Attachment-based Therapists in Virginia

Sindhu Elagandhala
Resident in Counseling, MA, EdS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
Waitlist for new clients
I engage in creative therapies that utilize tools from Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma-informed, and attachment-based frameworks.
I strive to create a clinical space that will allow you to experiment with new ways of being and challenge you to grow. I work with clients navigating comorbidities of mood, anxiety, personality, or trauma disorders as well as those seeking to integrate neurotypes such as ADHD and autism. I have in-depth passion and experience working with people of color, disabled clients, LGBTQIA+ clients, clients from non-Western cultural backgrounds, and clients exploring identity. It is deeply important to me to validate the experiences of people within marginalized groups and acknowledge how systemic oppression influences mental health.
I engage in creative therapies that utilize tools from Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma-informed, and attachment-based frameworks.
I strive to create a clinical space that will allow you to experiment with new ways of being and challenge you to grow. I work with clients navigating comorbidities of mood, anxiety, personality, or trauma disorders as well as those seeking to integrate neurotypes such as ADHD and autism. I have in-depth passion and experience working with people of color, disabled clients, LGBTQIA+ clients, clients from non-Western cultural backgrounds, and clients exploring identity. It is deeply important to me to validate the experiences of people within marginalized groups and acknowledge how systemic oppression influences mental health.
(571) 520-6527 View (571) 520-6527
Photo of Maren Ward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Maren Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Therapy is a great gift to yourself. The connection provided in a safe, therapeutic relationship is healing. I encourage self exploration to find and heal wounds that are blocking one's own self-love and connection to the authentic self that feels true and right. I provide a gentle, accepting presence to join you on your journey toward increased life satisfaction. I enjoy working with adults struggling with life transitions, anxiety, shame, depression, anger and grief or just feeling stuck.
Therapy is a great gift to yourself. The connection provided in a safe, therapeutic relationship is healing. I encourage self exploration to find and heal wounds that are blocking one's own self-love and connection to the authentic self that feels true and right. I provide a gentle, accepting presence to join you on your journey toward increased life satisfaction. I enjoy working with adults struggling with life transitions, anxiety, shame, depression, anger and grief or just feeling stuck.
(434) 448-8236 View (434) 448-8236
Photo of Whitney Mascaro, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Whitney Mascaro
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
3 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229
Dr. Whitney Mascaro (she/her) is a compassionate and dedicated psychologist with a strong commitment to serving clients from diverse backgrounds. With expertise in a variety of therapeutic approaches, she primarily works from emotion-focused and attachment-based orientations. Depending on each person’s unique needs, she incorporates CBT, ACT, DBT, and IFS interventions. Dr. Mascaro specializes in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm, chronic suicidality, trauma, survivors of violence, complex PTSD, relationship concerns, and sexual identity/LGBTQIA+ concerns.
Dr. Whitney Mascaro (she/her) is a compassionate and dedicated psychologist with a strong commitment to serving clients from diverse backgrounds. With expertise in a variety of therapeutic approaches, she primarily works from emotion-focused and attachment-based orientations. Depending on each person’s unique needs, she incorporates CBT, ACT, DBT, and IFS interventions. Dr. Mascaro specializes in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, self-harm, chronic suicidality, trauma, survivors of violence, complex PTSD, relationship concerns, and sexual identity/LGBTQIA+ concerns.
(804) 656-5773 x259 View (804) 656-5773 x259
Photo of Ryan Napolitano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Ryan Napolitano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I'm experienced in both modern and historical approaches; psychodynamic, attachment-based, internal family systems, addiction, and psychosynthesis.
When we feel stuck in our lives, for weeks, or years, it can take a toll on us in ways we may not see. Time passes and we don't feel any further in our life. We're left feeling exhausted and alone in our pain. My name is Ryan, and I provide therapy for people who are looking to break free. Whether it's poor relationships, anxiety, depression, substance or process addictions, trauma, or a desire to deepen their connection with others, I help my clients find strength, flexibility, and compassion, returning themselves to the feeling of being whole.
I'm experienced in both modern and historical approaches; psychodynamic, attachment-based, internal family systems, addiction, and psychosynthesis.
When we feel stuck in our lives, for weeks, or years, it can take a toll on us in ways we may not see. Time passes and we don't feel any further in our life. We're left feeling exhausted and alone in our pain. My name is Ryan, and I provide therapy for people who are looking to break free. Whether it's poor relationships, anxiety, depression, substance or process addictions, trauma, or a desire to deepen their connection with others, I help my clients find strength, flexibility, and compassion, returning themselves to the feeling of being whole.
(571) 297-1834 View (571) 297-1834
Photo of James J Kasten, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
James J Kasten
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
My role as a counselor is to provide you with a secure, empathetic, and encouraging space where you can heal and develop. I firmly believe in merging trauma-informed and attachment-based principles with a Christian perspective, to create a comprehensive approach to counseling that addresses your needs on multiple levels. Deciding to use my services is a courageous and proactive step towards prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being in your life. I am here to accompany you on this journey of self-discovery, offering constant support and guidance as you strive towards a more joyful and satisfying life.
My role as a counselor is to provide you with a secure, empathetic, and encouraging space where you can heal and develop. I firmly believe in merging trauma-informed and attachment-based principles with a Christian perspective, to create a comprehensive approach to counseling that addresses your needs on multiple levels. Deciding to use my services is a courageous and proactive step towards prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being in your life. I am here to accompany you on this journey of self-discovery, offering constant support and guidance as you strive towards a more joyful and satisfying life.
(804) 626-9130 View (804) 626-9130
Photo of Avigyil Buehler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Avigyil Buehler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Verified Verified
Forest, VA 24551  (Online Only)
I utilize techniques from Attachment-Based, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a diverse background in mental health; working with issues including anxiety, depression, attachment injuries, domestic violence, parenting concerns, communication, boundaries, emotional regulation, Adverse Childhood Experiences/family of origin, grief/loss, chronic illness, etc. I prefer to use a holistic model, taking into account biopsychosocial factors in a person's life, rather than treating symptoms alone. When we work towards harmony among all systems in the body and with the rest of the world, we can find deeper, sustainable healing.
I utilize techniques from Attachment-Based, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a diverse background in mental health; working with issues including anxiety, depression, attachment injuries, domestic violence, parenting concerns, communication, boundaries, emotional regulation, Adverse Childhood Experiences/family of origin, grief/loss, chronic illness, etc. I prefer to use a holistic model, taking into account biopsychosocial factors in a person's life, rather than treating symptoms alone. When we work towards harmony among all systems in the body and with the rest of the world, we can find deeper, sustainable healing.
(434) 362-5111 View (434) 362-5111
Photo of Victoria Whitfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Victoria Whitfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Life can have wonderful times and it can also bring really complicated moments that bring up an influx of emotions. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship distress or parenting issues I will walk alongside you, encourage you and coach you along your path.
Life can have wonderful times and it can also bring really complicated moments that bring up an influx of emotions. If you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship distress or parenting issues I will walk alongside you, encourage you and coach you along your path.
(571) 556-3002 View (571) 556-3002
Photo of Mind Chronicles Therapeutic Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Mind Chronicles Therapeutic Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Life is an amazing journey but occasionally we encounter many bumps in the road and we lose sight of some of life’s beautiful blessings. These obstacles can be very challenging to manage in the moment, but it is within our darkest moments; where we discover our light. My name is Najah Dail and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia (LPC). I primarily work with adolescents and young adults who are dealing with issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, anger/stress Management, self-image and self-Esteem, depression, emotional regulation, foster care/adoption and grief.
Life is an amazing journey but occasionally we encounter many bumps in the road and we lose sight of some of life’s beautiful blessings. These obstacles can be very challenging to manage in the moment, but it is within our darkest moments; where we discover our light. My name is Najah Dail and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia (LPC). I primarily work with adolescents and young adults who are dealing with issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, anger/stress Management, self-image and self-Esteem, depression, emotional regulation, foster care/adoption and grief.
(571) 378-5012 View (571) 378-5012
Photo of Shenandoah Creative Cnslng, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Shenandoah Creative Cnslng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waynesboro, VA 22980
Life can be overwhelming and emotional when children and adolescents are struggling with mental health concerns and challenges. Trauma leaves feelings of anxiety, depression, worthlessness that can make everyday interactions a struggle. Individuals need to feel safe, secure, feel valued and have a sense of belonging to fully participate in their lives. Treatment options should focus on their developmental stage, strengths and values. Building self-esteem, confidence and self image is the first step to healing.
Life can be overwhelming and emotional when children and adolescents are struggling with mental health concerns and challenges. Trauma leaves feelings of anxiety, depression, worthlessness that can make everyday interactions a struggle. Individuals need to feel safe, secure, feel valued and have a sense of belonging to fully participate in their lives. Treatment options should focus on their developmental stage, strengths and values. Building self-esteem, confidence and self image is the first step to healing.
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Photo of Sarah Degaraff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Sarah Degaraff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229
Waitlist for new clients
Sarah provides confidential and supportive services from a trauma-informed and attachment-based approach, focusing on the whole person, integrating the mind/body/spirit connection. She also teaches mindfulness practices to help bring compassion and presence to each moment. Other modalities Sarah utilizes are play therapy techniques, relational, positive psychology, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Sarah is passionate about helping others become more self-aware in order to practice greater self-acceptance and self-responsibility to lead more fulfilling, and meaningful lives.
Sarah provides confidential and supportive services from a trauma-informed and attachment-based approach, focusing on the whole person, integrating the mind/body/spirit connection. She also teaches mindfulness practices to help bring compassion and presence to each moment. Other modalities Sarah utilizes are play therapy techniques, relational, positive psychology, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Sarah is passionate about helping others become more self-aware in order to practice greater self-acceptance and self-responsibility to lead more fulfilling, and meaningful lives.
(804) 781-9031 View (804) 781-9031
Photo of Carson Halufska, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Carson Halufska
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ITC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, VA 24551
Carson borrows from multiple theories, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Attachment-Based Theory, and Somatic Therapy.
Carson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia & is a Certified Integrative Trauma Coach. To date, her clinical experience includes work in an array of sectors including an in-patient psychiatric hospital, community mental health, schools, & private practice. Carson has over 8 years of experience working with a variety of topics including anxiety, depression, women's sexual addictions, anger management, trauma, parenting issues, attachment issues, ADHD & more. Upon request, Carson also offers faith-based counseling that places Biblical truths at the center of your counseling journey.
Carson borrows from multiple theories, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Attachment-Based Theory, and Somatic Therapy.
Carson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia & is a Certified Integrative Trauma Coach. To date, her clinical experience includes work in an array of sectors including an in-patient psychiatric hospital, community mental health, schools, & private practice. Carson has over 8 years of experience working with a variety of topics including anxiety, depression, women's sexual addictions, anger management, trauma, parenting issues, attachment issues, ADHD & more. Upon request, Carson also offers faith-based counseling that places Biblical truths at the center of your counseling journey.
(434) 602-5964 View (434) 602-5964
Photo of Louise Chapman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Louise Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Plains, VA 20198
Taking the first step to seek therapy can be scary, but the fact you are taking that first step shows courage and strength. I will meet you at this first step, offering a warm, empathetic, and genuine approach. As a therapist, I work relationally with a trauma-focused, attachment-based, and client-centered lens. I imagine you in the driver's seat and me in the passenger seat, with you every step of the way, holding the map and offering guidance and support, but understanding that the real growth comes from you.
Taking the first step to seek therapy can be scary, but the fact you are taking that first step shows courage and strength. I will meet you at this first step, offering a warm, empathetic, and genuine approach. As a therapist, I work relationally with a trauma-focused, attachment-based, and client-centered lens. I imagine you in the driver's seat and me in the passenger seat, with you every step of the way, holding the map and offering guidance and support, but understanding that the real growth comes from you.
(540) 404-2946 View (540) 404-2946
Photo of Mary C. Ray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Mary C. Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Waitlist for new clients
People come to see me to enhance life. Things are going ok however self care needs improvement. They are having difficulty in relationships with themselves and others, reacting instead of responding. They are willing to examine and work to improve physical, emotional, sexual, social, spiritual and intellectual aspects of life, hoping to improve self and co regulation. Often they are aware of past or current trauma interfering with their capacity to attach, establish new ways/patterns of living life to enhance the future. In practice at my current location since 1990.
People come to see me to enhance life. Things are going ok however self care needs improvement. They are having difficulty in relationships with themselves and others, reacting instead of responding. They are willing to examine and work to improve physical, emotional, sexual, social, spiritual and intellectual aspects of life, hoping to improve self and co regulation. Often they are aware of past or current trauma interfering with their capacity to attach, establish new ways/patterns of living life to enhance the future. In practice at my current location since 1990.
(703) 291-3406 View (703) 291-3406
Photo of Alex Orton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Alex Orton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
In the hustle and bustle of today's world, achieving balance can often feel like an elusive goal. My philosophy revolves around the belief that a balanced life is not about perfection, but rather about finding harmony amidst the various dimensions of your life – be it work or school, relationships, self-care, or personal growth. Together, we'll explore the root causes of any imbalances and unearth your strengths to foster resilience. Whether you're navigating stress, seeking purpose, or aiming to improve your relationships, I'm here to provide unwavering support.
In the hustle and bustle of today's world, achieving balance can often feel like an elusive goal. My philosophy revolves around the belief that a balanced life is not about perfection, but rather about finding harmony amidst the various dimensions of your life – be it work or school, relationships, self-care, or personal growth. Together, we'll explore the root causes of any imbalances and unearth your strengths to foster resilience. Whether you're navigating stress, seeking purpose, or aiming to improve your relationships, I'm here to provide unwavering support.
(804) 902-2288 View (804) 902-2288
Photo of Allison P O'Grady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Allison P O'Grady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I offer adult and couples therapy, specializing in trauma, anxiety, loss, and relationship distress. I collaborate with individuals and couples who experiences fear, sadness, anger, and disconnection who seek a pathway to healing, greater emotional connection, and sense of well being. I utilize evidence-based therapies, including attachment-based, mindfulness, trauma-informed, and emotionally-focused approaches. I incorporate somatic & sensorimotor strategies, IFS, & EMDR to help heal trauma. My style is calm, non-judgmental, & interactive. I value the opportunity to partner with clients on their journey.
In my practice, I offer adult and couples therapy, specializing in trauma, anxiety, loss, and relationship distress. I collaborate with individuals and couples who experiences fear, sadness, anger, and disconnection who seek a pathway to healing, greater emotional connection, and sense of well being. I utilize evidence-based therapies, including attachment-based, mindfulness, trauma-informed, and emotionally-focused approaches. I incorporate somatic & sensorimotor strategies, IFS, & EMDR to help heal trauma. My style is calm, non-judgmental, & interactive. I value the opportunity to partner with clients on their journey.
(434) 595-3644 View (434) 595-3644
Photo of Kimberly Grebb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Kimberly Grebb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hampton, VA 23665  (Online Only)
Hello! Whatever you're searching for, I’m glad you’re here! I specialize in prenatal, postpartum and maternal mental health and parenting. I have advanced training in treating Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) and certification in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C). I am also a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) with years of experience helping children and families thrive. I aim to help women of all ages and stages regain a sense of connection, joy, and self amid all of life's ups and downs. My goal is to help you feel empowered and confident in each of the many roles you play in life.
Hello! Whatever you're searching for, I’m glad you’re here! I specialize in prenatal, postpartum and maternal mental health and parenting. I have advanced training in treating Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) and certification in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C). I am also a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) with years of experience helping children and families thrive. I aim to help women of all ages and stages regain a sense of connection, joy, and self amid all of life's ups and downs. My goal is to help you feel empowered and confident in each of the many roles you play in life.
(757) 300-0388 View (757) 300-0388
Photo of Katrina Taschman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Katrina Taschman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I value doing deep, attachment-based work that gets at the root of your struggles. Whether I am working with individuals, couples, or families, my goal is to help people feel less burdened by negativity and more connected with themselves and their loved ones. I can help you access the parts of you that need attention and healing so you can develop more self-trust, resolve internal conflicts, integrate past trauma, and show up more authentically in your relationships.
I value doing deep, attachment-based work that gets at the root of your struggles. Whether I am working with individuals, couples, or families, my goal is to help people feel less burdened by negativity and more connected with themselves and their loved ones. I can help you access the parts of you that need attention and healing so you can develop more self-trust, resolve internal conflicts, integrate past trauma, and show up more authentically in your relationships.
(571) 200-7005 View (571) 200-7005
Photo of Joseph Wall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Joseph Wall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burke, VA 22015  (Online Only)
Using attachment-based interventions, I help people establish safety, security, and stability in the world around them.
I work with couples, families, and individuals, but my true passion is relationships. After the initial "honeymoon period", couples may start finding themselves in complicated, emotional situations. Couples often begin to have disagreements, fights, unmet needs/wants, and hurt feelings start clipping away at the connections that were solid "in the beginning". After time, these situations start creating distance between the partners until.... it's over. The lack of working on the relationship, sadly, ends it.
Using attachment-based interventions, I help people establish safety, security, and stability in the world around them.
I work with couples, families, and individuals, but my true passion is relationships. After the initial "honeymoon period", couples may start finding themselves in complicated, emotional situations. Couples often begin to have disagreements, fights, unmet needs/wants, and hurt feelings start clipping away at the connections that were solid "in the beginning". After time, these situations start creating distance between the partners until.... it's over. The lack of working on the relationship, sadly, ends it.
(571) 470-6017 View (571) 470-6017
Photo of Meghan Robinson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Meghan Robinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Herndon, VA 20170
I am an attachment-based therapist specializing in relational issues around self-worth, anxiety, and sex therapy including sexual orientation, sex anxiety, and sexual shame.
You have spent years battling with wanting to be your authentic self yet unsure of who that is. Stuck in repetitive cycles in your relationships that have left you feeling unseen and disconnected. Constantly fearing failure, rejection, or not being "good enough" for others. You may be noticing how this impacts your sex life. You worry about disappointing your partner(s), struggle feeling comfortable in your body, and unsure how to communicate. You feel shame engaging with your sexuality which causes you to hide parts of yourself both internally and externally. You are ready for relief - to feel confident and at home with yourself.
I am an attachment-based therapist specializing in relational issues around self-worth, anxiety, and sex therapy including sexual orientation, sex anxiety, and sexual shame.
You have spent years battling with wanting to be your authentic self yet unsure of who that is. Stuck in repetitive cycles in your relationships that have left you feeling unseen and disconnected. Constantly fearing failure, rejection, or not being "good enough" for others. You may be noticing how this impacts your sex life. You worry about disappointing your partner(s), struggle feeling comfortable in your body, and unsure how to communicate. You feel shame engaging with your sexuality which causes you to hide parts of yourself both internally and externally. You are ready for relief - to feel confident and at home with yourself.
(571) 556-1666 View (571) 556-1666
Photo of Danielle Snyder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Danielle Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23229
Although my therapeutic approach is eclectic, I practice mainly from internal family systems, attachment-based theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic modalities.
Taking the first step in identifying ways in which you would like to feel differently or aspects of behavior you'd like to change can be difficult. As a trauma-informed licensed professional counselor, I have found that one of the most important components of the therapeutic relationship is creating a nonjudgmental, safe environment that allows for growth and healing to transpire. We are a team that will work together in overcoming challenges you are experiencing and work towards changes you would like to make.
Although my therapeutic approach is eclectic, I practice mainly from internal family systems, attachment-based theory, cognitive behavioral therapy, and psychodynamic modalities.
Taking the first step in identifying ways in which you would like to feel differently or aspects of behavior you'd like to change can be difficult. As a trauma-informed licensed professional counselor, I have found that one of the most important components of the therapeutic relationship is creating a nonjudgmental, safe environment that allows for growth and healing to transpire. We are a team that will work together in overcoming challenges you are experiencing and work towards changes you would like to make.
(804) 494-7917 View (804) 494-7917
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.