Attachment-based Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Jessie Reed, PsyD, Psychologist
Jessie Reed
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606
I use an attachment-based, relational, and neurodivergent affirming approach to help clients understand the connections among our neurology (brain wiring) and experiences by building safe, warm, and genuine therapeutic relationships.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, who provides psychotherapy, psychological evaluations, dyadic sessions, and parent consultations to best serve clients. I am collaborative and client-centered in my work, and I work to help clients identify and address difficult feelings and behaviors by understanding the deeper emotional/relational needs we all experience. I have training, experience, and interest in working children, families, and individuals who have experienced complex trauma, have very young children (ages 0-6), experienced adoption, and/or are neurodivergent (e.g., ADHD, Autism, and many more!)
I use an attachment-based, relational, and neurodivergent affirming approach to help clients understand the connections among our neurology (brain wiring) and experiences by building safe, warm, and genuine therapeutic relationships.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, who provides psychotherapy, psychological evaluations, dyadic sessions, and parent consultations to best serve clients. I am collaborative and client-centered in my work, and I work to help clients identify and address difficult feelings and behaviors by understanding the deeper emotional/relational needs we all experience. I have training, experience, and interest in working children, families, and individuals who have experienced complex trauma, have very young children (ages 0-6), experienced adoption, and/or are neurodivergent (e.g., ADHD, Autism, and many more!)
(919) 578-4541 View (919) 578-4541
Photo of Jeremy George
Jeremy George
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
Waitlist for new clients
My primary specialty is attachment theory. Attachment based modalities include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Families (EFFT). Other areas of speciality include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is effective in treating trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). I am also growing in my ability to apply Internal Family Systems (IFS) in my practice with clients.
My primary specialty is attachment theory. Attachment based modalities include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Families (EFFT). Other areas of speciality include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is effective in treating trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). I am also growing in my ability to apply Internal Family Systems (IFS) in my practice with clients.
(919) 535-4590 View (919) 535-4590
Photo of Rachel Cohen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
I am formally trained in EMDR, and enjoy using cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness strategies, attachment-based therapy, strengths-based therapy, and other evidence-based practices.
You deserve to live a meaningful and balanced life. Using a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will create a safe and nurturing environment for you to begin your self-exploration and healing. I will listen to you without judgment and honor you as a whole person who has inherent wisdom. Whether it is processing unresolved trauma, improving your mood, strengthening your relationships, or seeking support as you navigate life's transitions and challenges, you will experience healing and growth.
I am formally trained in EMDR, and enjoy using cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness strategies, attachment-based therapy, strengths-based therapy, and other evidence-based practices.
You deserve to live a meaningful and balanced life. Using a compassionate and collaborative approach, we will create a safe and nurturing environment for you to begin your self-exploration and healing. I will listen to you without judgment and honor you as a whole person who has inherent wisdom. Whether it is processing unresolved trauma, improving your mood, strengthening your relationships, or seeking support as you navigate life's transitions and challenges, you will experience healing and growth.
(919) 849-5273 View (919) 849-5273
Photo of Cat Wilson, LCMHCA, CRC, Counselor
Cat Wilson
Counselor, LCMHCA, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
I fully understand how overwhelming life can be at times, and believe that everyone can benefit from reflective and compassionate support. I believe that therapy is not "one-size fits all", therefore I tailor the process to the unique needs of each client. However, at the core of all of my work is a strengths-based approach. Sessions focus on self-awareness, altering negative thoughts, self-esteem building, and challenging my clients in a non-judgmental and empathetic way. My passion is working with teenagers, college-age adults, and young adults. If you feel like we would be a good fit, let's connect! I can't wait to talk to you.
I fully understand how overwhelming life can be at times, and believe that everyone can benefit from reflective and compassionate support. I believe that therapy is not "one-size fits all", therefore I tailor the process to the unique needs of each client. However, at the core of all of my work is a strengths-based approach. Sessions focus on self-awareness, altering negative thoughts, self-esteem building, and challenging my clients in a non-judgmental and empathetic way. My passion is working with teenagers, college-age adults, and young adults. If you feel like we would be a good fit, let's connect! I can't wait to talk to you.
(919) 626-8867 View (919) 626-8867
Photo of Kinga Gudor @ Deep Connections Counseling, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kinga Gudor @ Deep Connections Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Do you feel disconnected and lonely in your relationship? I can help you re-connect and feel again the bond you once had. I use Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy ( EFT), an attachment based therapy method. I am also trained in EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment Therapy- a combination of CBT and mindfulness techniques) and IFS ( Internal Family Systems ) which are helpful in processing trauma.
Do you feel disconnected and lonely in your relationship? I can help you re-connect and feel again the bond you once had. I use Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy ( EFT), an attachment based therapy method. I am also trained in EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment Therapy- a combination of CBT and mindfulness techniques) and IFS ( Internal Family Systems ) which are helpful in processing trauma.
(252) 300-3150 View (252) 300-3150
Photo of Mindy Brodsky, LCSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy Brodsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
I particularly enjoy utilizing narrative and attachment-based therapies, CBT, mindfulness practices, and expressive arts (e.
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
I particularly enjoy utilizing narrative and attachment-based therapies, CBT, mindfulness practices, and expressive arts (e.
Limited Availability - I specialize in trauma-informed, strengths-based counseling with a passion for integrative health and healing. I serve diverse adolescent and adult populations, including those impacted by cancer and other chronic illness, as well as those who struggle with anxiety, grief, trauma, chronic pain, and other life transitions such as prenatal/postpartum support.
(984) 464-7277 View (984) 464-7277
Jazlyne Pratt-Lambert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
I have completed over 60 hours of intensive training in attachment-based couple’s therapy called Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I believe creating a strong therapeutic bond and meeting individuals where they are is essential in therapy. My therapeutic approach places emphasis on collaboration, safety, trust and empowerment while exploring difficult emotions and working to strengthen relationships. I also believe your past experiences impact your current wellbeing and relationships. Throughout our work, I guide clients as they identify and explore how the past becomes present.
I have completed over 60 hours of intensive training in attachment-based couple’s therapy called Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I believe creating a strong therapeutic bond and meeting individuals where they are is essential in therapy. My therapeutic approach places emphasis on collaboration, safety, trust and empowerment while exploring difficult emotions and working to strengthen relationships. I also believe your past experiences impact your current wellbeing and relationships. Throughout our work, I guide clients as they identify and explore how the past becomes present.
(984) 358-2558 View (984) 358-2558
Photo of Lauren Elizabeth Reaves, LCMHCA, Counselor
Lauren Elizabeth Reaves
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am a certified FirstPlay practitioner, which is an attachment-based therapy aimed at strengthening the bond between a baby and a parent.
I enjoy working with adults, parents, infants, toddlers, children, and families. As a counselor, I aim to help my clients be their best selves. I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where I can collaborate and work with my clients to reach their goals. I work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds on issues including becoming new parents, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, transitions, and other mental health and life concerns.
I am a certified FirstPlay practitioner, which is an attachment-based therapy aimed at strengthening the bond between a baby and a parent.
I enjoy working with adults, parents, infants, toddlers, children, and families. As a counselor, I aim to help my clients be their best selves. I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where I can collaborate and work with my clients to reach their goals. I work with individuals from a variety of backgrounds on issues including becoming new parents, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, grief and loss, transitions, and other mental health and life concerns.
(984) 646-0430 View (984) 646-0430
Karen Catoe PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617
I value and enjoy working with clients of all ages. Primary areas of focus are: coping with life transitions, helping clients to have more satisfying relationships, working with parents to support attachment goals for healthy development of their child, and sitting with the grief that our inevitable losses bring. I specialize in working with clients with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, and anxiety disorders. My approach is integrative, drawing from effective treatments (DBT, CBT, attachment-based) to meet your particular needs. I provide short-term and long-term services to individuals and families.
I value and enjoy working with clients of all ages. Primary areas of focus are: coping with life transitions, helping clients to have more satisfying relationships, working with parents to support attachment goals for healthy development of their child, and sitting with the grief that our inevitable losses bring. I specialize in working with clients with eating disorders, trauma and PTSD, and anxiety disorders. My approach is integrative, drawing from effective treatments (DBT, CBT, attachment-based) to meet your particular needs. I provide short-term and long-term services to individuals and families.
(919) 813-2852 View (919) 813-2852
Photo of Deepa Bhatt-Mackin, MA, LCMHC
Deepa Bhatt-Mackin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
(919) 343-0027 View (919) 343-0027
Photo of Catherine V Doster, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Catherine V Doster
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
As a trauma-informed, attachment-based therapist, I aim to create space where clients feel safe, secure, & seen.
Are you overwhelmed by the mental load you carry? Do you feel stuck or displaced within your own story because of lingering hurt, trauma, family discord, or elusive & seemingly unending expectations & demands? Are you exhausted by gripping too tightly to keep things together, yet feel like it’s all falling apart? I would love to care for, sit with, steward, & walk alongside you in your healing journey. I specialize in working with clients with various forms of trauma (PTSD, spiritual/religious, sexual, etc), perinatal mental health, family discord, transitions, anxiety, grief/loss, & boundaries.
As a trauma-informed, attachment-based therapist, I aim to create space where clients feel safe, secure, & seen.
Are you overwhelmed by the mental load you carry? Do you feel stuck or displaced within your own story because of lingering hurt, trauma, family discord, or elusive & seemingly unending expectations & demands? Are you exhausted by gripping too tightly to keep things together, yet feel like it’s all falling apart? I would love to care for, sit with, steward, & walk alongside you in your healing journey. I specialize in working with clients with various forms of trauma (PTSD, spiritual/religious, sexual, etc), perinatal mental health, family discord, transitions, anxiety, grief/loss, & boundaries.
(919) 634-6067 View (919) 634-6067
Photo of Rebecca Siwanowicz, LCSW, MCAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Siwanowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601  (Online Only)
Hello beautiful people! There is no instruction manual for life and being human in an ever changing world is tough. I believe that we are all perfectly, imperfect and aim to assist my clients in appreciating their individuality and developing a life and sense of self of their choosing. I firmly believe that, as human beings, we don't belong in a box. If you are struggling with a life altering situation or simply need to process some potential life changes, reach out! You deserve a safe, supportive environment where you can be transparent and honest in achieving your personal goals and thriving in life rather than just surviving!
Hello beautiful people! There is no instruction manual for life and being human in an ever changing world is tough. I believe that we are all perfectly, imperfect and aim to assist my clients in appreciating their individuality and developing a life and sense of self of their choosing. I firmly believe that, as human beings, we don't belong in a box. If you are struggling with a life altering situation or simply need to process some potential life changes, reach out! You deserve a safe, supportive environment where you can be transparent and honest in achieving your personal goals and thriving in life rather than just surviving!
(919) 804-1372 View (919) 804-1372
Photo of Caroline Swindell, LCMHC, NCC
Caroline Swindell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
II work with all ages from a client-centered, internal family systems (IFS), EMDR, attachment-based approach (EFT).
In today’s society we get so much confusing and contradicting information about therapy and growth. With all my clients, I see them as the experts of their own life and aim to create a supportive space for vulnerability and radical acceptance. If they are struggling to find to their inner voice, I work with them to do this by processing their life experiences and trauma. By following a person centered and eclectic strategy, we develop tools for a deeper self-understanding of their needs and boundaries. I love working with individuals, parents, and couples to become comfortable with self-acceptance and emotions.
II work with all ages from a client-centered, internal family systems (IFS), EMDR, attachment-based approach (EFT).
In today’s society we get so much confusing and contradicting information about therapy and growth. With all my clients, I see them as the experts of their own life and aim to create a supportive space for vulnerability and radical acceptance. If they are struggling to find to their inner voice, I work with them to do this by processing their life experiences and trauma. By following a person centered and eclectic strategy, we develop tools for a deeper self-understanding of their needs and boundaries. I love working with individuals, parents, and couples to become comfortable with self-acceptance and emotions.
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Photo of Michael Stamm, MS, LCMHC, LCPC, RPT-S, Counselor
Michael Stamm
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
As a play therapist, my goal is to provide a safe and therapeutic environment for children and adolescents to express themselves and heal using their primary language: Play. Although appropriate for adults, traditional talk therapy can prove difficult for children and adolescents. By utilizing play therapy, I'm able to build a strong and safe therapeutic relationship, a cornerstone to change and healing. In addition, I provide supervision for licensed counselors seeking the Registered Play Therapist credential. Call or email today for current availability!
As a play therapist, my goal is to provide a safe and therapeutic environment for children and adolescents to express themselves and heal using their primary language: Play. Although appropriate for adults, traditional talk therapy can prove difficult for children and adolescents. By utilizing play therapy, I'm able to build a strong and safe therapeutic relationship, a cornerstone to change and healing. In addition, I provide supervision for licensed counselors seeking the Registered Play Therapist credential. Call or email today for current availability!
(919) 737-7912 View (919) 737-7912
Photo of Thorne Myers, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thorne Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Thorne (they/them) and I am a white, queer, non-binary licensed clinical social worker associate (LCSWA) offering both individuals and couples/relationship therapy in Durham, NC. My work is grounded in fierce compassion and a belief that everyone is capable of healing and feeling like they belong. It is my experience that one of the key elements of transformative therapy is our relationship; that we are a good “fit” and that you feel safe to share your joy, anger, grief, and tears. My style is gentle, attentive, playful, and person-centered–drawing from relational, narrative, and attachment-based therapy approaches.
My name is Thorne (they/them) and I am a white, queer, non-binary licensed clinical social worker associate (LCSWA) offering both individuals and couples/relationship therapy in Durham, NC. My work is grounded in fierce compassion and a belief that everyone is capable of healing and feeling like they belong. It is my experience that one of the key elements of transformative therapy is our relationship; that we are a good “fit” and that you feel safe to share your joy, anger, grief, and tears. My style is gentle, attentive, playful, and person-centered–drawing from relational, narrative, and attachment-based therapy approaches.
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Photo of Taylor Starns, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Starns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
These modalities include CBT, Attachment-Based Therapy, EMDR, Psychoeducation, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
As a Therapist, I believe that central to our success is a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship. I prioritize creating a safe relational space for my clients so that we can identify areas of strength and areas of growth. I specialize in Mood Disorders such as anxiety and depression, Eating Disorders, life transitions, Gender and Sexuality, and social/relational issues. I am a Certified EMDR Practitioner with extensive training and experience in supporting LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults through transitions and mental health distress.
These modalities include CBT, Attachment-Based Therapy, EMDR, Psychoeducation, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
As a Therapist, I believe that central to our success is a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship. I prioritize creating a safe relational space for my clients so that we can identify areas of strength and areas of growth. I specialize in Mood Disorders such as anxiety and depression, Eating Disorders, life transitions, Gender and Sexuality, and social/relational issues. I am a Certified EMDR Practitioner with extensive training and experience in supporting LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults through transitions and mental health distress.
(919) 348-4936 View (919) 348-4936
Photo of Jillian Krupp Martindale, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Krupp Martindale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606
I specialize in shifting your relationship with anxiety. One of the bravest things you can do is to explore your own patterns and notice the ways they do or do not serve you. Maybe you keep hitting the same wall in your relationship to your self and with others. I commit to support you in noticing your strengths and finding compassion through depth work. Together we will grow joy and presence in your life, while learning to attend to, and possibly resolve, unhelpful feelings and patterns. I believe in finding space to be ok in our humanness, while also staying accountable for telling ourselves the truth.
I specialize in shifting your relationship with anxiety. One of the bravest things you can do is to explore your own patterns and notice the ways they do or do not serve you. Maybe you keep hitting the same wall in your relationship to your self and with others. I commit to support you in noticing your strengths and finding compassion through depth work. Together we will grow joy and presence in your life, while learning to attend to, and possibly resolve, unhelpful feelings and patterns. I believe in finding space to be ok in our humanness, while also staying accountable for telling ourselves the truth.
(828) 536-4291 View (828) 536-4291
Photo of Taylor Guill, MS, LCMHCA, NCC, LPSC, Counselor
Taylor Guill
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC, LPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
I’m Taylor Guill, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate (LCMHCA) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) with a Master’s degree in Counseling. I’m passionate about supporting individuals navigate life’s challenges, including transitions, trauma and relationship issues. I work with adolescents, college students, and adults. You will find that my approach is person-centered, focusing on the whole person–body, mind and spirit. I integrate evidence-based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to tailor our work to your unique needs.
I’m Taylor Guill, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Associate (LCMHCA) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC) with a Master’s degree in Counseling. I’m passionate about supporting individuals navigate life’s challenges, including transitions, trauma and relationship issues. I work with adolescents, college students, and adults. You will find that my approach is person-centered, focusing on the whole person–body, mind and spirit. I integrate evidence-based techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment-Based Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing to tailor our work to your unique needs.
(910) 936-3393 View (910) 936-3393
Photo of Christine Adams, MSW, LCSW
Christine Adams
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608
I view therapy as a unique, dynamic space between two people where an alliance is being formed. My job is to meet you in a place where you can feel deeply seen, heard, and understood. My approach focuses on helping you break unwanted patterns that you have identified in both how you relate to yourself and the world. Sometimes, this takes us all the way back to early childhood or adolescence (Trauma and EMDR work). Areas of specialty include supporting folks navigating ethical non-monogamy, family of origin issues including estrangement, and people who want to have a safe space to better understand their emotional experiences.
I view therapy as a unique, dynamic space between two people where an alliance is being formed. My job is to meet you in a place where you can feel deeply seen, heard, and understood. My approach focuses on helping you break unwanted patterns that you have identified in both how you relate to yourself and the world. Sometimes, this takes us all the way back to early childhood or adolescence (Trauma and EMDR work). Areas of specialty include supporting folks navigating ethical non-monogamy, family of origin issues including estrangement, and people who want to have a safe space to better understand their emotional experiences.
(919) 737-7335 View (919) 737-7335
Photo of Dr. Anastasia Walker, DSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Anastasia Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27617  (Online Only)
Does a quiet voice within echo feelings of sorrow, solitude, rejection, or unease? Ever felt misunderstood or overlooked? If so, you're in the right space. I'm Anastasia Williams Walker, a licensed therapist - though some fondly dub me a "beacon of hope." My passion lies in crafting nurturing environments, aiding individuals and couples in letting go of pain, and sparking a renewed sense of empowerment and vitality. Let's journey together.
Does a quiet voice within echo feelings of sorrow, solitude, rejection, or unease? Ever felt misunderstood or overlooked? If so, you're in the right space. I'm Anastasia Williams Walker, a licensed therapist - though some fondly dub me a "beacon of hope." My passion lies in crafting nurturing environments, aiding individuals and couples in letting go of pain, and sparking a renewed sense of empowerment and vitality. Let's journey together.
(919) 521-4691 View (919) 521-4691
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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.