Attachment-based Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Micaela Badot-Fisher - Micaela Badot-Fisher| Meridian Psychotherapy, Pre-Licensed Professional
Micaela Badot-Fisher| Meridian Psychotherapy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I utilize approaches such as, but not limited to, CBT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, Narrative, Attachment-Based, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused therapies.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist Resident therapist in Massachusetts with Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, a team of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychotherapists. We work with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other life stressors. Our ultimate mission is to support your healing process. We believe that your lived experiences should and will be heard.
I utilize approaches such as, but not limited to, CBT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, Narrative, Attachment-Based, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused therapies.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist Resident therapist in Massachusetts with Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, a team of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychotherapists. We work with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other life stressors. Our ultimate mission is to support your healing process. We believe that your lived experiences should and will be heard.
(617) 872-3612 View (617) 872-3612
Photo of Victoria LaTronica, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Victoria LaTronica
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a LICSW, I view people through the lens of their intersectional identities, within the greater context of their environment. I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults for nearly a decade in various settings. I am an affirming, supportive, active ally to the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. When life becomes overwhelming, it can be helpful to have a trusted support. I look forward to empowering you along your journey of self-discovery, whether that be seeking self-acceptance, integration of self or change-focused supports. I also take OptumVA. Please email me for a link to my scheduling platform.
As a LICSW, I view people through the lens of their intersectional identities, within the greater context of their environment. I have worked with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults for nearly a decade in various settings. I am an affirming, supportive, active ally to the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities. When life becomes overwhelming, it can be helpful to have a trusted support. I look forward to empowering you along your journey of self-discovery, whether that be seeking self-acceptance, integration of self or change-focused supports. I also take OptumVA. Please email me for a link to my scheduling platform.
(781) 227-8403 View (781) 227-8403
Photo of Alexandria Harmon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCM
Alexandria Harmon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Strengths-Based, Attachment-Based, Acceptance and Commitment, Motivational Interviewing.
I am accepting new clients and I have openings on Saturday afternoons. I am a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in various healthcare, addictions treatment and mental health care settings. I specialize in working with individuals living with anxiety, depression, trauma / childhood trauma, attachment trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, chronic health conditions, substance use/misuse, family/relationship dynamics, and personality disorders. I create a warm and empathetic space for you to develop new skills so you can live your values and embrace your true potential.
I use a range of therapies including Cognitive Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Strengths-Based, Attachment-Based, Acceptance and Commitment, Motivational Interviewing.
I am accepting new clients and I have openings on Saturday afternoons. I am a clinical social worker with over a decade of experience in various healthcare, addictions treatment and mental health care settings. I specialize in working with individuals living with anxiety, depression, trauma / childhood trauma, attachment trauma, obsessive-compulsive disorder, ADHD, chronic health conditions, substance use/misuse, family/relationship dynamics, and personality disorders. I create a warm and empathetic space for you to develop new skills so you can live your values and embrace your true potential.
(617) 996-7435 View (617) 996-7435
Photo of Dr. Alekzander K. Davila - Center for Anxiety, Psychologist, PhD
Center for Anxiety
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Using attachment-based and psychodynamic approaches, I help clients uncover how early relationships and past experiences shape current patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating.
At the Center for Anxiety’s Boston office, I serve as a Supervising Psychologist, providing clinical supervision and evidence-based treatment. My approach to treatment is rooted in creating a collaborative and compassionate space where clients feel safe to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change. I specialize in addressing anxiety and mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, and attachment and relationship challenges.
Using attachment-based and psychodynamic approaches, I help clients uncover how early relationships and past experiences shape current patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating.
At the Center for Anxiety’s Boston office, I serve as a Supervising Psychologist, providing clinical supervision and evidence-based treatment. My approach to treatment is rooted in creating a collaborative and compassionate space where clients feel safe to explore their experiences and work toward meaningful change. I specialize in addressing anxiety and mood disorders, trauma and PTSD, and attachment and relationship challenges.
(857) 626-9557 View (857) 626-9557
Photo of Lexie Kremp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Lexie Kremp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
As a trauma-informed, attachment-based therapist, I’m not interested in fixing you.
I am passionate about supporting those navigating a life that is impacted by OCD, Trauma, Anxiety, College/Life transitions, depression, relational stress, and more.
As a trauma-informed, attachment-based therapist, I’m not interested in fixing you.
I am passionate about supporting those navigating a life that is impacted by OCD, Trauma, Anxiety, College/Life transitions, depression, relational stress, and more.
(215) 714-4300 View (215) 714-4300
Photo of Nicholas Moallem, Counselor, LMHC
Nicholas Moallem
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to help you connect with your core self while releasing the burdens that hold you back. Many people struggle with self-worth, self control, and the weight of past experiences. My approach helps those trapped in destructive patterns to attain more flexibility and freedom. Within the safety of the relationship we build, you can begin to let go of any pain you have been carrying and find relief in the present. We'll explore your inner resources and develop practical tools for navigating life’s challenges. This journey can lead to a more authentic life, filled with meaningful relationships and a renewed sense of possibility.
My goal is to help you connect with your core self while releasing the burdens that hold you back. Many people struggle with self-worth, self control, and the weight of past experiences. My approach helps those trapped in destructive patterns to attain more flexibility and freedom. Within the safety of the relationship we build, you can begin to let go of any pain you have been carrying and find relief in the present. We'll explore your inner resources and develop practical tools for navigating life’s challenges. This journey can lead to a more authentic life, filled with meaningful relationships and a renewed sense of possibility.
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Photo of Dr. Kim Manuel, Psychologist, PhD, MA, MEd, CAGS
Dr. Kim Manuel
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MEd, CAGS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I work with individuals across the lifespan, drawing from an intuitive blend of therapeutic approaches, including attachment-based, existential, Jungian, CBT, inner child, and holistic approaches.
My clients come to therapy with a desire to better understand themselves, their patterns, and the implicit beliefs they hold about themselves and the world. They are deep thinkers and feelers with a great appreciation for humor as part of the therapeutic process. They are often striving to become (and befriend) the best version of themselves. Together, we balance insights and perspectives with tools that guide transformation and growth.
I work with individuals across the lifespan, drawing from an intuitive blend of therapeutic approaches, including attachment-based, existential, Jungian, CBT, inner child, and holistic approaches.
My clients come to therapy with a desire to better understand themselves, their patterns, and the implicit beliefs they hold about themselves and the world. They are deep thinkers and feelers with a great appreciation for humor as part of the therapeutic process. They are often striving to become (and befriend) the best version of themselves. Together, we balance insights and perspectives with tools that guide transformation and growth.
(857) 688-3401 View (857) 688-3401
Photo of Dr. Libby Ruffing, Psychologist, MTS, PhD
Dr. Libby Ruffing
Psychologist, MTS, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
attachment-based, psychodynamic, family systems) and years of training and experience in the best evidence-based therapies (e.
If you are looking for couples or individual therapy, you've had an exhausting journey to this point. Perhaps you are a self-sufficient person who is used to making it on your own, but there is so, so much you are asked to hold right now. You may notice that in the strain in your relationships, in your unexpected emotional reactions, and in your body. There can be an overwhelming gap between the life and relationships you hope to have and your day-to-day reality. I offer a way forward through couples therapy and individual therapy that is informed by rich training and experience while honoring your depth, complexity and uniqueness.
attachment-based, psychodynamic, family systems) and years of training and experience in the best evidence-based therapies (e.
If you are looking for couples or individual therapy, you've had an exhausting journey to this point. Perhaps you are a self-sufficient person who is used to making it on your own, but there is so, so much you are asked to hold right now. You may notice that in the strain in your relationships, in your unexpected emotional reactions, and in your body. There can be an overwhelming gap between the life and relationships you hope to have and your day-to-day reality. I offer a way forward through couples therapy and individual therapy that is informed by rich training and experience while honoring your depth, complexity and uniqueness.
(857) 420-5657 View (857) 420-5657
Photo of Tatiana Mixco - Tatiana Mixco | Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tatiana Mixco | Meridian Psychotherapy Associates
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I utilize approaches such as, but not limited to, CBT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, Narrative, Attachment-Based, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused therapies.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist Resident therapist in Massachusetts with Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, a team of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychotherapists. We work with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other life stressors. Our ultimate mission is to support your healing process. We believe that your lived experiences should and will be heard.
I utilize approaches such as, but not limited to, CBT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, Narrative, Attachment-Based, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused therapies.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist Resident therapist in Massachusetts with Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, a team of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychotherapists. We work with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other life stressors. Our ultimate mission is to support your healing process. We believe that your lived experiences should and will be heard.
(617) 872-3612 View (617) 872-3612
Photo of Carmel Higgins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Carmel Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
My therapeutic approach incorporates diverse, evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment-based therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy to individual and families navigating life's challenges. Using tailored, client-focused approaches, I foster healing, resilience, and growth. Together, we will work towards overcoming obstacles and creating lasting positive changes in your life.
My therapeutic approach incorporates diverse, evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment-based therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy to individual and families navigating life's challenges. Using tailored, client-focused approaches, I foster healing, resilience, and growth. Together, we will work towards overcoming obstacles and creating lasting positive changes in your life.
(857) 597-8134 View (857) 597-8134
Photo of Daisha Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
Daisha Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02131
Waitlist for new clients
I use a trauma-informed, culturally attuned approach, integrating EMDR, attachment-based, and relational therapies to support healing.
Some days, just getting out of bed feels hard. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what you truly want out of life. I’m Daisha—a licensed therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and black woman with lived experience. I specialize in racial identity, childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and helping couples manage relationship conflict, communication issues, and emotional intimacy. As an individual and couples therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals and couples of color on their journey toward healing, emotional well-being and reconnection.
I use a trauma-informed, culturally attuned approach, integrating EMDR, attachment-based, and relational therapies to support healing.
Some days, just getting out of bed feels hard. You may feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what you truly want out of life. I’m Daisha—a licensed therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and black woman with lived experience. I specialize in racial identity, childhood trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and helping couples manage relationship conflict, communication issues, and emotional intimacy. As an individual and couples therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals and couples of color on their journey toward healing, emotional well-being and reconnection.
(857) 380-0812 View (857) 380-0812
Photo of Yojin Higashibaba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Yojin Higashibaba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am skilled in parts work/inner child work as well as attachment-based approaches.
I believe that we are our own healers. Through discovering and connecting to our own source of love, compassion and self-leadership we are awakened to our gifts of inner wisdom and healing. The therapeutic journey can sometimes be lonely, dark, scary, and confusing, and I am here to be a voice of compassion, hope, clarity and encouragement, reminding you to connect to your inner strength and wisdom. I am here to support you in understanding and creating whatever this may be for you in your life, whether it is an emotional, social, spiritual, or environmental changes.
I am skilled in parts work/inner child work as well as attachment-based approaches.
I believe that we are our own healers. Through discovering and connecting to our own source of love, compassion and self-leadership we are awakened to our gifts of inner wisdom and healing. The therapeutic journey can sometimes be lonely, dark, scary, and confusing, and I am here to be a voice of compassion, hope, clarity and encouragement, reminding you to connect to your inner strength and wisdom. I am here to support you in understanding and creating whatever this may be for you in your life, whether it is an emotional, social, spiritual, or environmental changes.
(857) 419-7501 View (857) 419-7501
Photo of McKenna Crosby - McKenna Crosby | Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, Pre-Licensed Professional
McKenna Crosby | Meridian Psychotherapy Associates
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I utilize approaches such as, but not limited to, CBT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, Narrative, Attachment-Based, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused therapies.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist Resident therapist in Massachusetts with Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, a team of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychotherapists. We work with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other life stressors. Our ultimate mission is to support your healing process. We believe that your lived experiences should and will be heard.
I utilize approaches such as, but not limited to, CBT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, Narrative, Attachment-Based, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused therapies.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist Resident therapist in Massachusetts with Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, a team of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychotherapists. We work with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other life stressors. Our ultimate mission is to support your healing process. We believe that your lived experiences should and will be heard.
(617) 872-3612 View (617) 872-3612
Photo of Dallas Sierra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Dallas Sierra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I also utilize other trauma-focused approaches, such as AEDP and attachment-based therapies.
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
I also utilize other trauma-focused approaches, such as AEDP and attachment-based therapies.
Are you struggling with processing past traumatic events? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. EMDR provides a proven approach to address the symptoms of trauma that can interfere with thriving in your everyday life. EMDR allows individuals to process incredible amounts of material in a shockingly short time.
(857) 420-5911 View (857) 420-5911
Photo of Kimika Watkins-Tashima, Counselor, LMHC
Kimika Watkins-Tashima
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I use an integrative approach to intervention, drawing on my training in trauma-focused, psychodynamics, attachment-based, IFS, component-based psychotherapy, DBT, EMDR, body-mind approaches such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, family therapy, ARC, SMART, mindfulness, and CBT.
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with 15+ years of clinical experience partnering with adults, children, families, and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues. I specialize particularly in treating individuals impacted by trauma, including but not limited to attachment issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sociocultural issues, addiction, emotion regulation issues, loss, and life transition.
I use an integrative approach to intervention, drawing on my training in trauma-focused, psychodynamics, attachment-based, IFS, component-based psychotherapy, DBT, EMDR, body-mind approaches such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, family therapy, ARC, SMART, mindfulness, and CBT.
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with 15+ years of clinical experience partnering with adults, children, families, and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues. I specialize particularly in treating individuals impacted by trauma, including but not limited to attachment issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sociocultural issues, addiction, emotion regulation issues, loss, and life transition.
(508) 406-7522 View (508) 406-7522
Photo of Johnny Xu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Johnny Xu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Using attachment-based, cognitive, solution-focused, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed modalities, I ensure that our therapeutic relationship is a refuge from larger systemic harm.
I believe the greatest gift a therapist can offer is full presence with a compassionate ear. Many clients seek therapy because something that was working for them is no longer working. Maybe you feel stuck, unseen, unheard, anxious, angry, or "enmeshed" in your interpersonal relationships and work. Maybe there's family estrangement or you are contemplating cutoff. Maybe your core values are being tested. You have been here for a long time, but believed you needed permission to feel this way: "Just another year," "just a little more." In our therapy space, even if you take your shoes off at the door, you can bring your whole self.
Using attachment-based, cognitive, solution-focused, mindfulness-based, and trauma-informed modalities, I ensure that our therapeutic relationship is a refuge from larger systemic harm.
I believe the greatest gift a therapist can offer is full presence with a compassionate ear. Many clients seek therapy because something that was working for them is no longer working. Maybe you feel stuck, unseen, unheard, anxious, angry, or "enmeshed" in your interpersonal relationships and work. Maybe there's family estrangement or you are contemplating cutoff. Maybe your core values are being tested. You have been here for a long time, but believed you needed permission to feel this way: "Just another year," "just a little more." In our therapy space, even if you take your shoes off at the door, you can bring your whole self.
(508) 687-6479 View (508) 687-6479
Photo of Anna Weiss- Psychotherapist And Parent Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA
Anna Weiss- Psychotherapist And Parent Coach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MA
Verified Verified
Online Only
I draw on psychodynamic, CBT, and attachment-based treatment modalities.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, strength-based, and client-centered. I believe in the healing power that exists within each individual, which is nurtured and strengthened within the context of our therapeutic relationship. I work with children, adults, and families who are facing complex struggles, including: parent-child relationship issues, transition to parenthood, postpartum difficulties, life transitions, behavior challenges, depression, anxiety, and more. My style is warm, empathic, and compassionate, and I work to create a safe environment to help you better understand and address the challenges you are experiencing.
I draw on psychodynamic, CBT, and attachment-based treatment modalities.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, strength-based, and client-centered. I believe in the healing power that exists within each individual, which is nurtured and strengthened within the context of our therapeutic relationship. I work with children, adults, and families who are facing complex struggles, including: parent-child relationship issues, transition to parenthood, postpartum difficulties, life transitions, behavior challenges, depression, anxiety, and more. My style is warm, empathic, and compassionate, and I work to create a safe environment to help you better understand and address the challenges you are experiencing.
(617) 819-0204 View (617) 819-0204
Photo of Mary Clark, Counselor, LMHC
Mary Clark
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I bring an attachment-based, trauma-informed approach to health and healing, looking beyond symptoms to understand the deeper emotional and relational aspects of suffering.
Life can be so challenging, but you don't have to navigate it alone! Whether you're grappling with past experiences, facing current struggles, or navigating an uncertain future, it would be an honor to walk alongside you as you grow to understand yourself better and move toward meaningful change.
I bring an attachment-based, trauma-informed approach to health and healing, looking beyond symptoms to understand the deeper emotional and relational aspects of suffering.
Life can be so challenging, but you don't have to navigate it alone! Whether you're grappling with past experiences, facing current struggles, or navigating an uncertain future, it would be an honor to walk alongside you as you grow to understand yourself better and move toward meaningful change.
(617) 209-9567 View (617) 209-9567
Photo of Keisha Barnes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, PIP
Keisha Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
As an attachment-based therapist, I specialize in trauma & emotional pain.
Emotions like anxiety, sadness and shame are so overwhelming that it feels like your body is shattering from all of your feelings. A painful childhood, challenging relationships, loss or another distressing experience has left you feeling hopeless. You've never been able to explain what feeling abandoned is like, or why it's so hard to trust, so you feel more isolated in being misunderstood. You have some regrets on how you've responded or acted in the past while you were just trying to survive or feel connection.
As an attachment-based therapist, I specialize in trauma & emotional pain.
Emotions like anxiety, sadness and shame are so overwhelming that it feels like your body is shattering from all of your feelings. A painful childhood, challenging relationships, loss or another distressing experience has left you feeling hopeless. You've never been able to explain what feeling abandoned is like, or why it's so hard to trust, so you feel more isolated in being misunderstood. You have some regrets on how you've responded or acted in the past while you were just trying to survive or feel connection.
(919) 822-9125 View (919) 822-9125
Photo of Ben Goodman - Ben Goodman | Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ben Goodman | Meridian Psychotherapy Associates
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I utilize approaches such as, but not limited to, CBT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, Narrative, Attachment-Based, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused therapies.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist Resident therapist in Massachusetts with Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, a team of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychotherapists. We work with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other life stressors. Our ultimate mission is to support your healing process. We believe that your lived experiences should and will be heard.
I utilize approaches such as, but not limited to, CBT, DBT, IFS, Psychodynamic, Narrative, Attachment-Based, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused therapies.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist Resident therapist in Massachusetts with Meridian Psychotherapy Associates, a team of culturally sensitive and trauma-informed psychotherapists. We work with individuals, couples, and families who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, and other life stressors. Our ultimate mission is to support your healing process. We believe that your lived experiences should and will be heard.
(617) 872-3612 View (617) 872-3612
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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.