Attachment-based Therapists in Philadelphia, PA
I love working with all different kinds of people, and I’ll always start with your family (yep, that's your childhood!). I specialize in attachment work. This can help kids/teens and their parents, couples stuck in a cycle of conflict or disconnect, and individuals experiencing anxiety or depression - especially around big life transitions. Folks who come to me (and who stay the longest) are ready to do the deeper work in their lives. They aren't looking for a quick fix - they are looking to truly understand the systems they're a part of, and the agency they have in their own lives to create change.
I love working with all different kinds of people, and I’ll always start with your family (yep, that's your childhood!). I specialize in attachment work. This can help kids/teens and their parents, couples stuck in a cycle of conflict or disconnect, and individuals experiencing anxiety or depression - especially around big life transitions. Folks who come to me (and who stay the longest) are ready to do the deeper work in their lives. They aren't looking for a quick fix - they are looking to truly understand the systems they're a part of, and the agency they have in their own lives to create change.
I blend psychodynamic, systemic, attachment-based, somatic, mindfulness, and relational theories, along with parts work and nervous system work into therapy.
My goal is to help you empower your relationships: to your most loved ones, to the the world, and most importantly, to your own self. With a style that is collaborative and compassionate, I provide a space to explore yourself & practices that can: improve your communication skills, expand your ability to deeply understand yourself and others, traverse conflict more successfully, move towards feeling more confident and comfortable within your own self, nurture deeper intimacy and sexual potential, increase your awareness of your emotional landscape, become more loving towards all of who you are, find more pleasure & joy, and more
I blend psychodynamic, systemic, attachment-based, somatic, mindfulness, and relational theories, along with parts work and nervous system work into therapy.
My goal is to help you empower your relationships: to your most loved ones, to the the world, and most importantly, to your own self. With a style that is collaborative and compassionate, I provide a space to explore yourself & practices that can: improve your communication skills, expand your ability to deeply understand yourself and others, traverse conflict more successfully, move towards feeling more confident and comfortable within your own self, nurture deeper intimacy and sexual potential, increase your awareness of your emotional landscape, become more loving towards all of who you are, find more pleasure & joy, and more
I also use Attachment-Based and Psychodynamic techniques so we can understand the "why" behind your thoughts and feelings.
You are in a season of transition and you feel stuck in knowing what is the “right” step to take first. Overthinking is causing anxiety and self doubt has you questioning yourself. You no longer want to allow comparisons, pleasing, and perfectionism to stop you from living your life on your terms. You know you want more for yourself. You acknowledge that you deserve more. More fulfillment, joy, meaningful connections, and satisfaction. You are ready to unapologetically live your best life as your authentic self.
I also use Attachment-Based and Psychodynamic techniques so we can understand the "why" behind your thoughts and feelings.
You are in a season of transition and you feel stuck in knowing what is the “right” step to take first. Overthinking is causing anxiety and self doubt has you questioning yourself. You no longer want to allow comparisons, pleasing, and perfectionism to stop you from living your life on your terms. You know you want more for yourself. You acknowledge that you deserve more. More fulfillment, joy, meaningful connections, and satisfaction. You are ready to unapologetically live your best life as your authentic self.
I operate primarily from a person centered approach using a trauma informed, attachment-based and narrative-based lens.
Hello! My name is Andrew and I’m a pre-licensed therapist working towards licensure. I have been in the role of helping adults, children and youth for the past 15 years in different social work and ministry roles and now a more specific therapeutic role. I work with individuals dealing with a wide range of issues from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationships, family of origin, family dynamics, abuse and spiritual issues. I work with adult individuals and couples as well as teens.
I operate primarily from a person centered approach using a trauma informed, attachment-based and narrative-based lens.
Hello! My name is Andrew and I’m a pre-licensed therapist working towards licensure. I have been in the role of helping adults, children and youth for the past 15 years in different social work and ministry roles and now a more specific therapeutic role. I work with individuals dealing with a wide range of issues from anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationships, family of origin, family dynamics, abuse and spiritual issues. I work with adult individuals and couples as well as teens.
Emily Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I use an integrative model in my work that emphasizes psychodynamic and relational elements, as well as family systems therapy, attachment-based therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and exposure therapy.
I love to offer my clients a reflective listening ear and a holding space that truly feels warm, affirming, and safe. I think in that safety is where the depth of the work can happen, and change becomes possible. I believe that clients have an innate sense of strength that can be channelled through psychotherapy. I work with teens and adults on a variety of issues that include trauma, traumatic loss (including by suicide), grief, mood, anxiety, OCD, and eating disorders. I hope that through our work together, I'll be able to gain deeper insights into who you are, and what your struggles might be, and share those insights with you.
I use an integrative model in my work that emphasizes psychodynamic and relational elements, as well as family systems therapy, attachment-based therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and exposure therapy.
I love to offer my clients a reflective listening ear and a holding space that truly feels warm, affirming, and safe. I think in that safety is where the depth of the work can happen, and change becomes possible. I believe that clients have an innate sense of strength that can be channelled through psychotherapy. I work with teens and adults on a variety of issues that include trauma, traumatic loss (including by suicide), grief, mood, anxiety, OCD, and eating disorders. I hope that through our work together, I'll be able to gain deeper insights into who you are, and what your struggles might be, and share those insights with you.
One of the greatest sources of distress and unhappiness comes from the inability to attach and feel full authenticity in our relationships. Whether the relationships are family based, interpersonal, or intimate; the ability to openly communicate and achieve safety is a major key to mental and emotional fulfillment. However, traumas can impact how we function in our lives and relationships. Therapy with me allows for you and/or your partner build healthy skills to communication and begin to rebuild your story individually and together.
I also offer licensure supervision in the state of PA for individuals seeking their LPC.
One of the greatest sources of distress and unhappiness comes from the inability to attach and feel full authenticity in our relationships. Whether the relationships are family based, interpersonal, or intimate; the ability to openly communicate and achieve safety is a major key to mental and emotional fulfillment. However, traumas can impact how we function in our lives and relationships. Therapy with me allows for you and/or your partner build healthy skills to communication and begin to rebuild your story individually and together.
I also offer licensure supervision in the state of PA for individuals seeking their LPC.
Jesse A Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I have training in EMDR, attachment-based family therapy, and ecosystemic structural family therapy.
I work best with individuals who feel stuck—whether due to addiction, trauma, or life’s overwhelming challenges—and are seeking a way forward that truly honors their unique journey. My ideal client may feel disconnected from themselves, struggling to find meaning or direction, yet they have a deep desire to rebuild a life that reflects their values. Together, we work toward self-compassion, inner peace, and a path to healing that feels both sustainable and authentic—whether that includes a 12-Step approach or another method that resonates with them.
I have training in EMDR, attachment-based family therapy, and ecosystemic structural family therapy.
I work best with individuals who feel stuck—whether due to addiction, trauma, or life’s overwhelming challenges—and are seeking a way forward that truly honors their unique journey. My ideal client may feel disconnected from themselves, struggling to find meaning or direction, yet they have a deep desire to rebuild a life that reflects their values. Together, we work toward self-compassion, inner peace, and a path to healing that feels both sustainable and authentic—whether that includes a 12-Step approach or another method that resonates with them.
I utilize a trauma-informed approach and draw from therapeutic models including Attachment-based, Experiential, Emotion-focused, Contextual, ESFT, and was trained in Person of the Therapist under founder Dr.
When life feels messy, out-of-control, even unbearable, it's easy to forget that the human experience is inherently a messy one. Much of the mess is our best attempts at functioning under a deeply flawed and oppressive system. If you seek to understand yourself and your relationships to people and systems around you, to grow and heal, and to explore being human, I would love to share this experience with you. I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with challenges such as individual/generational trauma, sex/intimacy, adoption/fostering, multiracial couples/families, ADHD/Autism, and LGBTQIA+ challenges.
I utilize a trauma-informed approach and draw from therapeutic models including Attachment-based, Experiential, Emotion-focused, Contextual, ESFT, and was trained in Person of the Therapist under founder Dr.
When life feels messy, out-of-control, even unbearable, it's easy to forget that the human experience is inherently a messy one. Much of the mess is our best attempts at functioning under a deeply flawed and oppressive system. If you seek to understand yourself and your relationships to people and systems around you, to grow and heal, and to explore being human, I would love to share this experience with you. I work with individuals, couples, and families struggling with challenges such as individual/generational trauma, sex/intimacy, adoption/fostering, multiracial couples/families, ADHD/Autism, and LGBTQIA+ challenges.
Tressa Dabney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
In my work, I pull from different models, including ACT, psychodynamic therapy, relational and attachment-based, and somatic approaches.
Therapy is one avenue to building a life that is more authentic, connected, and filled with meaning. My goal as a therapist is to co-create a space that is warm and safe where you can approach issues from a strengths-based lens, and where curiosity and creativity can flourish. As a therapist, I value my unique relationship with each client, and I am deeply grateful to be able to witness growth, meaning-making, and changes that positively impact a client’s life. Therapy is a unique, personal, and specific journey, and I am humbled and eager to be on that journey with each individual client with whom I work.
In my work, I pull from different models, including ACT, psychodynamic therapy, relational and attachment-based, and somatic approaches.
Therapy is one avenue to building a life that is more authentic, connected, and filled with meaning. My goal as a therapist is to co-create a space that is warm and safe where you can approach issues from a strengths-based lens, and where curiosity and creativity can flourish. As a therapist, I value my unique relationship with each client, and I am deeply grateful to be able to witness growth, meaning-making, and changes that positively impact a client’s life. Therapy is a unique, personal, and specific journey, and I am humbled and eager to be on that journey with each individual client with whom I work.
I have training in family systems, trauma informed therapy, grief counseling, attachment-based therapy, and mindfulness.
I help clients heal the loss associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion. Are you a people pleaser, wanting to make everyone happy but yourself? Do you have intense feelings over breakups and other losses? Are you fiercely independent and hate taking help from others? Being placed for adoption can reverberate through all aspects of your life. As an adoptee myself, I "get it". I also work with the other sides of the adoption triad: birthparents and adoptive parents.
I have training in family systems, trauma informed therapy, grief counseling, attachment-based therapy, and mindfulness.
I help clients heal the loss associated with adoption; transracial adoptees dealing with identity issues; and adoptees working through all of the complex emotions related to search and reunion. Are you a people pleaser, wanting to make everyone happy but yourself? Do you have intense feelings over breakups and other losses? Are you fiercely independent and hate taking help from others? Being placed for adoption can reverberate through all aspects of your life. As an adoptee myself, I "get it". I also work with the other sides of the adoption triad: birthparents and adoptive parents.
I integrate these models within a relational, attachment-based approach to trauma processing.
I work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and relationship distress. I understand how trauma, childhood attachment, family of origin dynamics, and our social/cultural/political systems underly many of these struggles. And I know how these painful experiences can disconnect you from yourself, your loved ones, and the joys of life. Together, we will explore the patterns that keep you stuck, understand their roots, and learn to respond to them differently. Our work will help you restore a sense of agency and reconnection to your authentic, grounded Self that's innate to us all.
I integrate these models within a relational, attachment-based approach to trauma processing.
I work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and relationship distress. I understand how trauma, childhood attachment, family of origin dynamics, and our social/cultural/political systems underly many of these struggles. And I know how these painful experiences can disconnect you from yourself, your loved ones, and the joys of life. Together, we will explore the patterns that keep you stuck, understand their roots, and learn to respond to them differently. Our work will help you restore a sense of agency and reconnection to your authentic, grounded Self that's innate to us all.
Meet Our Attachment-based Therapists
Wise Mind Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I use an attachment-based relational approach, and integrate other styles like Contemplative Psychotherapy and CBT when appropriate.
Are you self-aware, but stuck? Does it feel impossible to think your way out of relational triggers? Maybe relationships feel overwhelming and challenging. When you’re feeling this way, it can be tough to find ways to cope alone. I understand how that feels and I am here to offer compassionate, non-judgmental, and confidential support to help you manage life challenges.
I use an attachment-based relational approach, and integrate other styles like Contemplative Psychotherapy and CBT when appropriate.
Are you self-aware, but stuck? Does it feel impossible to think your way out of relational triggers? Maybe relationships feel overwhelming and challenging. When you’re feeling this way, it can be tough to find ways to cope alone. I understand how that feels and I am here to offer compassionate, non-judgmental, and confidential support to help you manage life challenges.
I provide trauma-focused care using DBT, CBT, and attachment-based work.
Life is filled with challenges. At times, suffering is an unavoidable part of our human
experience, but what we do with that suffering can shape the course of our lives. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by anxiety, depression, past trauma, or difficult relationships, you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a licensed associate therapist, I am dedicated to helping you explore yourself more deeply, heal past and present wounds, build self-esteem, and develop coping skills that allow you to move through life with more ease and purpose. My approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and deeply attuned to your unique needs.
I provide trauma-focused care using DBT, CBT, and attachment-based work.
Life is filled with challenges. At times, suffering is an unavoidable part of our human
experience, but what we do with that suffering can shape the course of our lives. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by anxiety, depression, past trauma, or difficult relationships, you don’t have to navigate it alone. As a licensed associate therapist, I am dedicated to helping you explore yourself more deeply, heal past and present wounds, build self-esteem, and develop coping skills that allow you to move through life with more ease and purpose. My approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and deeply attuned to your unique needs.
I integrate systemic, attachment-based, and sex-positive approaches to help you and your partner feel more connected, understood, and alive in your relationship.
Hi there! I’m Emmarose (She/Her), and I’m a sex & relationship therapist passionate about helping individuals and partners connect, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re looking to reignite the spark in your relationship, explore your sexuality, navigate new gender expression, or embrace your true self unapologetically, I’m here to create a space where all parts of you are celebrated. As a proud queer woman, I know how important it is to feel seen and understood in therapy. I approach my work with curiosity, compassion, and a good dose of humor because healing doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time.
I integrate systemic, attachment-based, and sex-positive approaches to help you and your partner feel more connected, understood, and alive in your relationship.
Hi there! I’m Emmarose (She/Her), and I’m a sex & relationship therapist passionate about helping individuals and partners connect, grow, and thrive. Whether you’re looking to reignite the spark in your relationship, explore your sexuality, navigate new gender expression, or embrace your true self unapologetically, I’m here to create a space where all parts of you are celebrated. As a proud queer woman, I know how important it is to feel seen and understood in therapy. I approach my work with curiosity, compassion, and a good dose of humor because healing doesn’t have to feel heavy all the time.
Isabelle V. Barker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Bringing together Internal Family Systems (IFS) and mindfulness, along with relational/ attachment-based therapy, I help you locate and strengthen your inner resources of healing and resilience.
I am a psychotherapist who supports individuals and couples/relationships in accessing internal resources to achieve balance and well-being in all spheres of life. I am IFS Level-2 trained and incorporate IFS and mindful awareness, along with a keen understanding of relationships and the impacts of larger cultural contexts.
Bringing together Internal Family Systems (IFS) and mindfulness, along with relational/ attachment-based therapy, I help you locate and strengthen your inner resources of healing and resilience.
I am a psychotherapist who supports individuals and couples/relationships in accessing internal resources to achieve balance and well-being in all spheres of life. I am IFS Level-2 trained and incorporate IFS and mindful awareness, along with a keen understanding of relationships and the impacts of larger cultural contexts.
I use trauma-informed techniques from contextual-therapy, narrative-therapy and attachment-based therapy.
Hello! And welcome to my page! I focus on relationships in my practice, either to ourselves or to others. Our identities are influenced by our many relationships. These relationships can be defined by many aspects; our family of origin, our chosen family, and our outside communities. When our cultural narratives clash, it can disrupt the ways we self-identify and connect with others. I focus on building security and trust in our relationships can improve our ways to overcome the many challenges of life.
I use trauma-informed techniques from contextual-therapy, narrative-therapy and attachment-based therapy.
Hello! And welcome to my page! I focus on relationships in my practice, either to ourselves or to others. Our identities are influenced by our many relationships. These relationships can be defined by many aspects; our family of origin, our chosen family, and our outside communities. When our cultural narratives clash, it can disrupt the ways we self-identify and connect with others. I focus on building security and trust in our relationships can improve our ways to overcome the many challenges of life.
Melissa Sziga Dessereau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Their clinical orientation is client-centered, systemic, anti-oppression, narrative, and attachment-based.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
Their clinical orientation is client-centered, systemic, anti-oppression, narrative, and attachment-based.
Sziga is a perceptive and nuanced therapist with a refreshingly frank style. For over 25 years, they have been working with individuals, couples, and families to foster personal growth and satisfying relationships. They have a way of making clients feel comfortable, understood, and at ease — like no matter what you say they get it and don’t judge you. And they're funny.
My aim is to tailor treatment to meet the unique needs of my clients; rooted in the internal family systems model, I incorporate acceptance and commitment therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral and attachment-based approaches into treatment.
I am a Resident Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field. I am committed to creating a safe and collaborative space for adolescents, adults, and families to deepen their understanding of themselves and those around them. I am passionate about supporting clients with complex trauma histories, attachment and relationship concerns, life transitions, and mood disorders. I believe that lasting change is only possible when clients feel seen and understood for who they are, and I am dedicated to nurturing a therapeutic relationship that meets the needs of each client.
My aim is to tailor treatment to meet the unique needs of my clients; rooted in the internal family systems model, I incorporate acceptance and commitment therapies, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral and attachment-based approaches into treatment.
I am a Resident Professional Counselor with over 5 years of experience in the mental and behavioral health field. I am committed to creating a safe and collaborative space for adolescents, adults, and families to deepen their understanding of themselves and those around them. I am passionate about supporting clients with complex trauma histories, attachment and relationship concerns, life transitions, and mood disorders. I believe that lasting change is only possible when clients feel seen and understood for who they are, and I am dedicated to nurturing a therapeutic relationship that meets the needs of each client.
Francesca Papazis
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC, MPhilEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
I view therapy primarily through an attachment-based and psychodynamic lens.
I believe you know yourself better than anyone else. I also believe humans are built for connection, and when you find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs, therapy can be healing. I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship challenges, sexuality/identity exploration, attachment healing, and past/childhood trauma, though I am here to support you with any topics you choose to bring to session. I encourage safety and empowerment with my clients, compassionately challenging you to work toward your individual goals and embrace your intuitive sense of self.
I view therapy primarily through an attachment-based and psychodynamic lens.
I believe you know yourself better than anyone else. I also believe humans are built for connection, and when you find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs, therapy can be healing. I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship challenges, sexuality/identity exploration, attachment healing, and past/childhood trauma, though I am here to support you with any topics you choose to bring to session. I encourage safety and empowerment with my clients, compassionately challenging you to work toward your individual goals and embrace your intuitive sense of self.
Joseph Wall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach is attachment-based methods to provide a safe, supportive space for healing and growth.
My ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relational challenges. They may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in negative patterns. Their needs include a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions and practical tools to manage their symptoms. Their goals are to build healthier relationships, achieve emotional stability, and regain a sense of purpose and fulfillment. They want to heal, grow, and lead a more balanced, meaningful life.
My approach is attachment-based methods to provide a safe, supportive space for healing and growth.
My ideal client is someone facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or relational challenges. They may feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck in negative patterns. Their needs include a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions and practical tools to manage their symptoms. Their goals are to build healthier relationships, achieve emotional stability, and regain a sense of purpose and fulfillment. They want to heal, grow, and lead a more balanced, meaningful life.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Attachment-based Therapists Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
- Bala Cynwyd
- Cheltenham
- Elkins Park
- Lansdowne
- Manayunk
- Merion Station
- Narberth
- Penn Valley
- Upper Darby
- Wyncote
- Wynnewood
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.