Attachment-based Therapists in Kitchener, ON

Photo of Lindsay Horne - Sex Therapist, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lindsay Horne - Sex Therapist
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2G  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are constantly giving to others, feel lost or confused about who you are, and what brings you joy or pleasure? People pleasers prioritize everyone else around them, putting themselves last until they are exhausted and have no energy left. I work with people to help them find what they need – it could be validation, acknowledgement, finding the things that bring them joy, or discovering what pleasure feels like in their body. I will aid you in exploring the sensations in your body to figure what feels right for you and how you can live the life you want to live
Do you feel like you are constantly giving to others, feel lost or confused about who you are, and what brings you joy or pleasure? People pleasers prioritize everyone else around them, putting themselves last until they are exhausted and have no energy left. I work with people to help them find what they need – it could be validation, acknowledgement, finding the things that bring them joy, or discovering what pleasure feels like in their body. I will aid you in exploring the sensations in your body to figure what feels right for you and how you can live the life you want to live
(226) 781-7282 View (226) 781-7282
Photo of Nick Cardases, MDiv, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Nick Cardases
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2M
There are valid reasons behind your behaviour and emotions. We function best in an environment where we feel safe, loved and valued and can develop healthy relationships and a positive sense of self. We can then better explore life from a position of mental and emotional well-being. Perhaps this has not been your experience. Trauma and distress can affect your feelings and behaviour. The hurt may have left you feeling unsafe, devalued and negative towards yourself. You may struggle with poor coping options that have caused harm and suffering to yourself and those around you. You might be finding it difficult to navigate life.
There are valid reasons behind your behaviour and emotions. We function best in an environment where we feel safe, loved and valued and can develop healthy relationships and a positive sense of self. We can then better explore life from a position of mental and emotional well-being. Perhaps this has not been your experience. Trauma and distress can affect your feelings and behaviour. The hurt may have left you feeling unsafe, devalued and negative towards yourself. You may struggle with poor coping options that have caused harm and suffering to yourself and those around you. You might be finding it difficult to navigate life.
(844) 260-9827 View (844) 260-9827
Photo of Melody Lippert, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Melody Lippert
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
I provide trauma-informed attachment-based parent counselling, Circle of Security Parenting, and child counselling.
Parenting is hard and all of us make mistakes but knowing how to read our child's emotional cues and how to repair the inevitable ruptures is a game-changer for developing the relationship we want with our kids. If you are just starting out on your parenting journey and simply want to develop a secure attachment/bond with your baby or have been struggling with responding to your child's emotions for years, parent counselling might be the next best step in your relationship with your little(s). Kids' behaviours are always communicating something, and having someone to discuss these behaviours with can be so helpful.
I provide trauma-informed attachment-based parent counselling, Circle of Security Parenting, and child counselling.
Parenting is hard and all of us make mistakes but knowing how to read our child's emotional cues and how to repair the inevitable ruptures is a game-changer for developing the relationship we want with our kids. If you are just starting out on your parenting journey and simply want to develop a secure attachment/bond with your baby or have been struggling with responding to your child's emotions for years, parent counselling might be the next best step in your relationship with your little(s). Kids' behaviours are always communicating something, and having someone to discuss these behaviours with can be so helpful.
(548) 901-0595 View (548) 901-0595
Photo of Jeweley Smith, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jeweley Smith
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2M
Along with these different modalities, I work from an attachment-based and trauma informed lens.
It is part of the human experience to have ups and downs in life. My passion for being a therapist is holding space for those struggling or navigating through life’s difficulties. As a client centered therapist, it is my goal to provide clients a warm, safe and accepting environment where you can feel comfortable to share your story. Each individual person is unique, and it is important to me to understand all of the aspects of a persons life that make them who they are. Together we will collaboratively develop goals that would be meaningful to you that are realistic, achievable and bring you closer to the life you want to live.
Along with these different modalities, I work from an attachment-based and trauma informed lens.
It is part of the human experience to have ups and downs in life. My passion for being a therapist is holding space for those struggling or navigating through life’s difficulties. As a client centered therapist, it is my goal to provide clients a warm, safe and accepting environment where you can feel comfortable to share your story. Each individual person is unique, and it is important to me to understand all of the aspects of a persons life that make them who they are. Together we will collaboratively develop goals that would be meaningful to you that are realistic, achievable and bring you closer to the life you want to live.
(548) 485-5827 View (548) 485-5827
Photo of Mandy Brouse, BA, MAcand, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mandy Brouse
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MAcand
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Does it sometimes feel like your body and mind hijack your everyday experience? I am a somatic and holistic-spiritually integrated practitioner, especially as it relates to attachment-based or sexuality/relational trauma symptoms, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), or challenges related to CPTSD/PTSD. Our bodies are amazing and I truly believe they hold the key to unlocking our healing potential. I work with clients who want to embody their highest self and live an authentic life of their choosing.
Does it sometimes feel like your body and mind hijack your everyday experience? I am a somatic and holistic-spiritually integrated practitioner, especially as it relates to attachment-based or sexuality/relational trauma symptoms, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), or challenges related to CPTSD/PTSD. Our bodies are amazing and I truly believe they hold the key to unlocking our healing potential. I work with clients who want to embody their highest self and live an authentic life of their choosing.
(548) 918-5040 View (548) 918-5040
Photo of Sara Murphy, MC, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Sara Murphy
Registered Psychotherapist, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic technique also incorporates Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based, ego state, neurobiological, and attachment-based therapies.
In her book The Gifts of Imperfection, Bréné Brown says that “owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do”. It is my privilege as a Psychotherapist to provide space and support as individuals dive into the stories of their lives and do the hard work of healing. Certified in EMDR, and other types of evidence-based trauma therapies, I’m grateful to be able to provide an opportunity for individuals to release the emotional, mental, and physical blocks caused by trauma and other difficult life circumstances.
My therapeutic technique also incorporates Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based, ego state, neurobiological, and attachment-based therapies.
In her book The Gifts of Imperfection, Bréné Brown says that “owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do”. It is my privilege as a Psychotherapist to provide space and support as individuals dive into the stories of their lives and do the hard work of healing. Certified in EMDR, and other types of evidence-based trauma therapies, I’m grateful to be able to provide an opportunity for individuals to release the emotional, mental, and physical blocks caused by trauma and other difficult life circumstances.
(519) 500-6722 View (519) 500-6722
Photo of Anna Liargovas, MSc, RP, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Anna Liargovas
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2M
I am passionate about emotional, psychological and spiritual well-being. I believe in treating the whole person (mind, body and spirit) who is connected to bigger systems of family, friends, community and society. I provide therapy to individual, couples and families experiencing challenging circumstances, and who are looking for a supportive place for positive change and growth. I have experience working with people who present with such concerns as: * Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem * Loss, Grief * PTSD, Childhood trauma/Abuse * Couple and relationship counselling * Parenting & Blended family issues
I am passionate about emotional, psychological and spiritual well-being. I believe in treating the whole person (mind, body and spirit) who is connected to bigger systems of family, friends, community and society. I provide therapy to individual, couples and families experiencing challenging circumstances, and who are looking for a supportive place for positive change and growth. I have experience working with people who present with such concerns as: * Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem * Loss, Grief * PTSD, Childhood trauma/Abuse * Couple and relationship counselling * Parenting & Blended family issues
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Photo of Alex Daechsel, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Alex Daechsel
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2G
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches including attachment-based theory, polyvagal theory, parts work, EFT, and CBT, and have training to support women with ADHD -diagnosed or not!.
For women struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues, life can often feel overwhelming, stressful, and exhausting. As a therapist, I am passionate about empowering women to reclaim joy in their lives. By creating a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, I will support you in nurturing self-awareness, setting boundaries, and fostering self-compassion. Through our work together, you can develop healthier communication skills, work through past experiences that are holding you back, as well as overcome life transitions including perimenopause and premenstrual disorders, with clarity.
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches including attachment-based theory, polyvagal theory, parts work, EFT, and CBT, and have training to support women with ADHD -diagnosed or not!.
For women struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues, life can often feel overwhelming, stressful, and exhausting. As a therapist, I am passionate about empowering women to reclaim joy in their lives. By creating a safe space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, I will support you in nurturing self-awareness, setting boundaries, and fostering self-compassion. Through our work together, you can develop healthier communication skills, work through past experiences that are holding you back, as well as overcome life transitions including perimenopause and premenstrual disorders, with clarity.
(548) 290-7096 View (548) 290-7096
Photo of Melissa Fellin - Bloom Child & Family Therapy, MSW, RSW, MA, PhD, Registered Social Worker
Bloom Child & Family Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2G
Our evidence-based treatments are tailored to meet the needs of children, teens and families and include CBPT, EMDR, play therapy, expressive arts therapies (music, art, dance/movement, writing), animal-assisted therapy, sport social work, narrative therapy, attachment-based family therapies among others.
Bloom Child & Family Therapy supports children and their families using creative approaches and evidenced-based practices. At Bloom we strive to provide accessible, quality mental health care for children, adolescents and their families. Bloom therapists are ultra-creative! Play, expressive arts and animal-assisted therapies allow Bloom to make their services accessible to all children and their families. Whether you are coming for family therapy or your child is attending therapy, we believe that family and/or primary caregivers are key to children’s healing and growing. We are looking to build strong and healthy families.
Our evidence-based treatments are tailored to meet the needs of children, teens and families and include CBPT, EMDR, play therapy, expressive arts therapies (music, art, dance/movement, writing), animal-assisted therapy, sport social work, narrative therapy, attachment-based family therapies among others.
Bloom Child & Family Therapy supports children and their families using creative approaches and evidenced-based practices. At Bloom we strive to provide accessible, quality mental health care for children, adolescents and their families. Bloom therapists are ultra-creative! Play, expressive arts and animal-assisted therapies allow Bloom to make their services accessible to all children and their families. Whether you are coming for family therapy or your child is attending therapy, we believe that family and/or primary caregivers are key to children’s healing and growing. We are looking to build strong and healthy families.
(226) 799-4869 View (226) 799-4869
Photo of Chantale Pomerleau - The Mindful Place - Chantale Pomerleau, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
The Mindful Place - Chantale Pomerleau
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2A
I work from a client-centred, attachment-based lens and I have training in ACT, CBT, EMDR, polyvagal theory, self-compassion therapy and mindfulness.
Our Cambridge office is open for in-person therapy. I support clients who'd like to feel more secure and intentional in navigating relationships. Do you have a pattern of people-pleasing, overworking and feeling burnt out? If so, let's explore the attachment patterns and past experiences which shape how you think, feel and act. We can then develop cognitive and body-based strategies help to build a foundation of self-trust and "home" in your body when facing intense feelings, emotions and thoughts. This, along with setting boundaries, communicating assertively and increasing self-compassion, can help you to meet your own needs.
I work from a client-centred, attachment-based lens and I have training in ACT, CBT, EMDR, polyvagal theory, self-compassion therapy and mindfulness.
Our Cambridge office is open for in-person therapy. I support clients who'd like to feel more secure and intentional in navigating relationships. Do you have a pattern of people-pleasing, overworking and feeling burnt out? If so, let's explore the attachment patterns and past experiences which shape how you think, feel and act. We can then develop cognitive and body-based strategies help to build a foundation of self-trust and "home" in your body when facing intense feelings, emotions and thoughts. This, along with setting boundaries, communicating assertively and increasing self-compassion, can help you to meet your own needs.
(226) 798-3303 View (226) 798-3303
Photo of Infertility Anxiety Trauma - Jessica Sloan, BBA, RP, CHyp, Registered Psychotherapist
Infertility Anxiety Trauma - Jessica Sloan
Registered Psychotherapist, BBA, RP, CHyp
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2M
Accepting new clients! Perhaps you have tried talk therapy and it helped with some things but in certain areas, you find it difficult to make changes & are looking for a new approach. You may find that people-pleasing and perfectionism holds you back. You find you start out strong by building new habits and then quickly lose momentum. You may be finding yourself more anxious than usual despite your best attempts at maintaining a positive outlook. You may also be experiencing overwhelm, imposter syndrome, anxiety, phobias, or depression. I also have a special interest in supporting women through pregnancy loss, infertility & burnout.
Accepting new clients! Perhaps you have tried talk therapy and it helped with some things but in certain areas, you find it difficult to make changes & are looking for a new approach. You may find that people-pleasing and perfectionism holds you back. You find you start out strong by building new habits and then quickly lose momentum. You may be finding yourself more anxious than usual despite your best attempts at maintaining a positive outlook. You may also be experiencing overwhelm, imposter syndrome, anxiety, phobias, or depression. I also have a special interest in supporting women through pregnancy loss, infertility & burnout.
(548) 489-0584 View (548) 489-0584
Photo of Theresa Will, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Theresa Will
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Reaching out for help, especially from a stranger, is incredibly scary and courageous - the first step is often the hardest. I always feel honoured to join my clients on their journey to wellness and I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I am committed to working with you at your pace. My approach is down to earth and collaborative, always. I strive to maintain an emotionally safe and judgment free space so that you may feel respected and heard. I am extensively trained in trauma therapy and have participated in Phases 1, 2, 3, 4 and Masters level of Brainspotting, as well as the specialty Children and Adolescents training.
Reaching out for help, especially from a stranger, is incredibly scary and courageous - the first step is often the hardest. I always feel honoured to join my clients on their journey to wellness and I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I am committed to working with you at your pace. My approach is down to earth and collaborative, always. I strive to maintain an emotionally safe and judgment free space so that you may feel respected and heard. I am extensively trained in trauma therapy and have participated in Phases 1, 2, 3, 4 and Masters level of Brainspotting, as well as the specialty Children and Adolescents training.
(226) 400-8579 View (226) 400-8579
Photo of Jennifer Faragitakis, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jennifer Faragitakis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2H
Hi, I’m Jen! Are you a female with high-functioning anxiety or a trauma history? Outwardly, you seem okay, but beneath the surface, you may struggle with overwhelm, feeling on edge, overthinking, worrying, self-criticism, a nagging feeling of not being good enough, perfectionism, self-doubt, low self-confidence, not feeling able to enjoy the moment, and/or imposter syndrome? If you can relate to any of these concerns, I'm here to listen and help. I work with clients to help improve nervous system dysregulation caused by stress, trauma, or attachment wounds.
Hi, I’m Jen! Are you a female with high-functioning anxiety or a trauma history? Outwardly, you seem okay, but beneath the surface, you may struggle with overwhelm, feeling on edge, overthinking, worrying, self-criticism, a nagging feeling of not being good enough, perfectionism, self-doubt, low self-confidence, not feeling able to enjoy the moment, and/or imposter syndrome? If you can relate to any of these concerns, I'm here to listen and help. I work with clients to help improve nervous system dysregulation caused by stress, trauma, or attachment wounds.
(519) 767-2279 View (519) 767-2279
Photo of Teresa Vandebelt, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Teresa Vandebelt
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2G
Journeying towards wellness takes more work than most of us imagine! Without support it can feel slow and discouraging! If you are on this journey, then you may want someone to walk alongside to help you move forward. Once you have this support, then it's time to start preparing for the journey! This could include remembering what's important to you, and working through the challenges that make the path forward difficult. You might even need to equip yourself with new skills and discover new paths towards a goal.
Journeying towards wellness takes more work than most of us imagine! Without support it can feel slow and discouraging! If you are on this journey, then you may want someone to walk alongside to help you move forward. Once you have this support, then it's time to start preparing for the journey! This could include remembering what's important to you, and working through the challenges that make the path forward difficult. You might even need to equip yourself with new skills and discover new paths towards a goal.
(548) 490-5850 View (548) 490-5850
Photo of Sodaba Surush, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sodaba Surush
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I take a client-centered and compassionate approach to my work and uphold the values of dignity and respect for all. I specialize in working with individuals and couples coping with anxiety, depression, addictions, ADHD, trauma, life transitions (including immigration), and identity related issues. My practice is influenced by evidence-based modalities of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, and incorporates both mindfulness and meditation practices.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I take a client-centered and compassionate approach to my work and uphold the values of dignity and respect for all. I specialize in working with individuals and couples coping with anxiety, depression, addictions, ADHD, trauma, life transitions (including immigration), and identity related issues. My practice is influenced by evidence-based modalities of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, and incorporates both mindfulness and meditation practices.
(548) 488-4207 View (548) 488-4207
Photo of Heather Dodge, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Heather Dodge
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2M
Do you wish relationships were not so difficult? Are you tired of feeling anxious and drained? Do you want to learn how to regulate your emotions? Let me help you learn how to become more emotionally aware of your personal patterns, emotional triggers and unhelpful behaviours. Psychotherapy is a space where you can safely explore deeper realms of who you are. I believe when we deepen our self awareness we gain insight that can inspire us to change and grow. Let’s connect for a free 15 minute consultation and get started on your healing.
Do you wish relationships were not so difficult? Are you tired of feeling anxious and drained? Do you want to learn how to regulate your emotions? Let me help you learn how to become more emotionally aware of your personal patterns, emotional triggers and unhelpful behaviours. Psychotherapy is a space where you can safely explore deeper realms of who you are. I believe when we deepen our self awareness we gain insight that can inspire us to change and grow. Let’s connect for a free 15 minute consultation and get started on your healing.
(548) 901-0855 View (548) 901-0855
Photo of Inês Lincho - Inês Lincho Counselling , MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Inês Lincho Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Waitlist for new clients
Vulnerability can be incredibly scary! Finding someone we genuinely connect with, someone with whom we feel comfortable enough to share our personal stories, can feel challenging. Hi, my name is Ines (she/her). I, too, have been in the same place you are now. That's why my primary focus is to create a safe enough, supportive, and compassionate space where you can share your journey, and I will be there to listen. Drawing from my own experiences with mental health, I am deeply passionate about this work and firmly believe in the significance of understanding the mind-body-soul connection.
Vulnerability can be incredibly scary! Finding someone we genuinely connect with, someone with whom we feel comfortable enough to share our personal stories, can feel challenging. Hi, my name is Ines (she/her). I, too, have been in the same place you are now. That's why my primary focus is to create a safe enough, supportive, and compassionate space where you can share your journey, and I will be there to listen. Drawing from my own experiences with mental health, I am deeply passionate about this work and firmly believe in the significance of understanding the mind-body-soul connection.
(548) 490-8268 View (548) 490-8268
Photo of Chelsea Larsson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Chelsea Larsson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2K  (Online Only)
Struggling with life's transitions while facing systemic barriers? Need support that fosters growth without compromising your integrity? You're in the right place. It’s tough for self-identified misfits—those of us who are nerdy, witchy, queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, or just frustrated trying to thrive in a society not built for us. Finding values-aligned support can be even harder. My goal is to empower you to navigate these challenges with confidence and authenticity, moving toward a fulfilling life without sacrificing who you are.
Struggling with life's transitions while facing systemic barriers? Need support that fosters growth without compromising your integrity? You're in the right place. It’s tough for self-identified misfits—those of us who are nerdy, witchy, queer, neurodivergent, chronically ill, or just frustrated trying to thrive in a society not built for us. Finding values-aligned support can be even harder. My goal is to empower you to navigate these challenges with confidence and authenticity, moving toward a fulfilling life without sacrificing who you are.
(226) 777-5148 View (226) 777-5148
Photo of Shanna Braden, MA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shanna Braden
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
You are a devoted parent who longs to feel close to your child but the teenage years are giving you a run for your money. You’re tired of walking on eggshells, tired of the fights and the silences and too tired to take care of yourself. You need someone to listen and help you to understand your teen’s behaviour. You want to connect with your child and feel more confident as a parent so you can enjoy one another again and support them on their journey to adulthood.
You are a devoted parent who longs to feel close to your child but the teenage years are giving you a run for your money. You’re tired of walking on eggshells, tired of the fights and the silences and too tired to take care of yourself. You need someone to listen and help you to understand your teen’s behaviour. You want to connect with your child and feel more confident as a parent so you can enjoy one another again and support them on their journey to adulthood.
(548) 490-1863 View (548) 490-1863
Photo of Leanna Callum - Limestone Counselling Coaching & Consulting, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Limestone Counselling Coaching & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2K
We specialize in individual and relationship focused psychotherapy and personal and professional coaching focused on supporting positive mental health and improving personal wellness. Our services are rooted in core holistic, client-centred, humanistic principles guided by a neuroplasticity and bio-psycho-socio-cultural perspective. This perspective is neuro-diversity positive and trauma informed and is focused on building strengths and positive approaches to change. Please see both our Psychotherapy and Coaching and Consulting Services pages on our website for descriptions of services.
We specialize in individual and relationship focused psychotherapy and personal and professional coaching focused on supporting positive mental health and improving personal wellness. Our services are rooted in core holistic, client-centred, humanistic principles guided by a neuroplasticity and bio-psycho-socio-cultural perspective. This perspective is neuro-diversity positive and trauma informed and is focused on building strengths and positive approaches to change. Please see both our Psychotherapy and Coaching and Consulting Services pages on our website for descriptions of services.
(519) 590-2220 View (519) 590-2220
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Attachment-based Counsellors

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.