Attachment-based Therapists in Sacramento, CA

Photo of Kristina Esquivel, ASW, CPRP
Kristina Esquivel
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, CPRP
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95811  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in attachment-based psychotherapy, where I guide individuals and couples to explore and understand the impact of early relationships and emotional bonds on their current patterns of behavior, emotions, and interactions. My approach is grounded in the belief that our earliest attachments shape the way we connect with others throughout our lives, influencing our self-esteem, emotional regulation, and ability to form healthy relationships.
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in attachment-based psychotherapy, where I guide individuals and couples to explore and understand the impact of early relationships and emotional bonds on their current patterns of behavior, emotions, and interactions. My approach is grounded in the belief that our earliest attachments shape the way we connect with others throughout our lives, influencing our self-esteem, emotional regulation, and ability to form healthy relationships.
(530) 296-6814 View (530) 296-6814
Photo of Beth Laskosky, BS, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Beth Laskosky
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BS, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95821
I employ Experiential techniques and an Attachment-based lens to get to the core of negative beliefs that hold us back from being the person we want to be.
If you could embody all of your identities without shame and judgment - who would you be? Much of my work has been centered around neurodivergent, transgender teens. and LGBTQAI2S+ individuals. I enjoy working with all neurodivergent humans trying to navigate ADHD, executive dysfunction, low self-esteem, and identity formation & expression. As a queer therapist, I understand the safety and security needed to create a healing relationship. I also assist with psychedelic integration for individuals processing the larger meanings derived from healing mystical experiences and life transitions.
I employ Experiential techniques and an Attachment-based lens to get to the core of negative beliefs that hold us back from being the person we want to be.
If you could embody all of your identities without shame and judgment - who would you be? Much of my work has been centered around neurodivergent, transgender teens. and LGBTQAI2S+ individuals. I enjoy working with all neurodivergent humans trying to navigate ADHD, executive dysfunction, low self-esteem, and identity formation & expression. As a queer therapist, I understand the safety and security needed to create a healing relationship. I also assist with psychedelic integration for individuals processing the larger meanings derived from healing mystical experiences and life transitions.
(916) 269-5556 View (916) 269-5556
Photo of Silva Sheklanian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Silva Sheklanian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95821
My name is Silva Sheklanian. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing out of California. My work focuses primarily on both trauma and attachment. I am EMDR trained as well as attachment-based trained. I am trauma-informed, as such my approach is very much client-centered. I use both CBT and EMDR in my sessions to support my clients toward their goals. I am also trained in Theraplay to support clients towards attachment building with family members (specifically their children).
My name is Silva Sheklanian. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing out of California. My work focuses primarily on both trauma and attachment. I am EMDR trained as well as attachment-based trained. I am trauma-informed, as such my approach is very much client-centered. I use both CBT and EMDR in my sessions to support my clients toward their goals. I am also trained in Theraplay to support clients towards attachment building with family members (specifically their children).
(916) 619-6280 View (916) 619-6280
Photo of Luana Coloma Cook, PsyD, Psychologist
Luana Coloma Cook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I specialize in attachment-based approaches to child, family, and couples therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, parents, couples, and families. I am warm, real, and collaborative. If you and/or your family members choose to work with me, I'll endeavor to create an environment that feels safe enough for you to take risks, be authentic and make lasting changes. We'll work together to explore the dynamics that may inadvertently by contributing to a problem cycle, so that you can feel empowered to act in more preferred ways of being.
I specialize in attachment-based approaches to child, family, and couples therapy.
I work with children, adolescents, parents, couples, and families. I am warm, real, and collaborative. If you and/or your family members choose to work with me, I'll endeavor to create an environment that feels safe enough for you to take risks, be authentic and make lasting changes. We'll work together to explore the dynamics that may inadvertently by contributing to a problem cycle, so that you can feel empowered to act in more preferred ways of being.
(510) 401-3798 View (510) 401-3798
Photo of Ce Eshelman - The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95826
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
(916) 269-3522 View (916) 269-3522
Photo of Vanessa Heffington, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Heffington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95822  (Online Only)
This wide range of settings and clients has allowed me to explore and hone therapeutic skills across several styles of therapy including Family Systems, Attachment-Based, Behavioral-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to name a few which are helpful in addressing a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns.
While working in ABA, I supported my clients in developing language, cognition, and adaptive skills for daily life. In private practice and community based mental health, I worked with children, adolescents, adults, parents, and families through individual therapy, education based behavior intervention and mental health counseling, social skills development in the individual and group settings, and caregiver psycho-education.
This wide range of settings and clients has allowed me to explore and hone therapeutic skills across several styles of therapy including Family Systems, Attachment-Based, Behavioral-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance & Commitment Therapy to name a few which are helpful in addressing a wide range of mental and behavioral health concerns.
While working in ABA, I supported my clients in developing language, cognition, and adaptive skills for daily life. In private practice and community based mental health, I worked with children, adolescents, adults, parents, and families through individual therapy, education based behavior intervention and mental health counseling, social skills development in the individual and group settings, and caregiver psycho-education.
(916) 866-7518 View (916) 866-7518
Photo of Raya Singh, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Raya Singh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
My approach is rooted in attachment-based theory which means I help clients explore relationships and emotional patterns.
Welcome! As your therapist, I prioritize providing a warm and non-judgmental space to process life experiences. I work from a client-centered foundation where genuineness and warmth are central to healing. I enjoy working with individuals, teens, and couples who want to face and work through difficult problems to enhance their relationships. I have a special interest in working through life transitions and intergenerational trauma. However, one of my greatest passions is empowering people who struggle with the stigma surrounding mental health and support services, particularly regarding their families and culture.
My approach is rooted in attachment-based theory which means I help clients explore relationships and emotional patterns.
Welcome! As your therapist, I prioritize providing a warm and non-judgmental space to process life experiences. I work from a client-centered foundation where genuineness and warmth are central to healing. I enjoy working with individuals, teens, and couples who want to face and work through difficult problems to enhance their relationships. I have a special interest in working through life transitions and intergenerational trauma. However, one of my greatest passions is empowering people who struggle with the stigma surrounding mental health and support services, particularly regarding their families and culture.
(916) 354-6312 View (916) 354-6312
Photo of Catriona Macrae, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Catriona Macrae
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I view the path of therapy as a gentle exploration of the fullness of emotional experience, opening to suffering and grief as well as appreciation of the joyful moments. I offer an attachment based, holistic, and humanistic approach to therapy, seeing you as a complex whole person with the innate capacity to heal. Guided by compassion, curiosity, connection and courage within the therapeutic relationship, I work from a trauma-sensitive perspective and it is my intention to create a safe space for all races and cultures. I am allied with LGBTQIA+ folks and come from a sex positive perspective.
I view the path of therapy as a gentle exploration of the fullness of emotional experience, opening to suffering and grief as well as appreciation of the joyful moments. I offer an attachment based, holistic, and humanistic approach to therapy, seeing you as a complex whole person with the innate capacity to heal. Guided by compassion, curiosity, connection and courage within the therapeutic relationship, I work from a trauma-sensitive perspective and it is my intention to create a safe space for all races and cultures. I am allied with LGBTQIA+ folks and come from a sex positive perspective.
(530) 322-8883 View (530) 322-8883
Photo of Madilyn Schweikert, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Madilyn Schweikert
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I'm trauma-informed and attachment-based; this means that I believe our current experiences can improve by tending to earlier relationship experiences.
​I help creatives and sensitive folks go deep in their therapy work so they can experience joyful relationships, better intimacy, and less stress & anxiety. Can we love others if we don’t love ourselves? Well, yes. No one deeply loves themselves all the time. Therapy with me will help you feel more clear on your needs and more confidence in yourself; this can improve your life and your relationships. I work with couples and individuals at Sacramento's leading relationship therapy center. Schedule online at www.lovehealgrow.com.
I'm trauma-informed and attachment-based; this means that I believe our current experiences can improve by tending to earlier relationship experiences.
​I help creatives and sensitive folks go deep in their therapy work so they can experience joyful relationships, better intimacy, and less stress & anxiety. Can we love others if we don’t love ourselves? Well, yes. No one deeply loves themselves all the time. Therapy with me will help you feel more clear on your needs and more confidence in yourself; this can improve your life and your relationships. I work with couples and individuals at Sacramento's leading relationship therapy center. Schedule online at www.lovehealgrow.com.
(916) 794-3610 View (916) 794-3610
Photo of Cathleen Brinegar, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathleen Brinegar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95831
My name is Cathleen Brinegar, and I am a faith-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) located in Westminster, CA. I offer both in-person therapy and remote therapy services via telehealth. I specialize in trauma therapy, attachment-based therapy, and addiction counseling. I’ve worked in correctional mental health, inpatient/outpatient drug and alcohol treatment programs, and faith-based rehabilitation programs. I am certified in Complex Trauma Therapy (CCTP) and Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT).
My name is Cathleen Brinegar, and I am a faith-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) located in Westminster, CA. I offer both in-person therapy and remote therapy services via telehealth. I specialize in trauma therapy, attachment-based therapy, and addiction counseling. I’ve worked in correctional mental health, inpatient/outpatient drug and alcohol treatment programs, and faith-based rehabilitation programs. I am certified in Complex Trauma Therapy (CCTP) and Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT).
(818) 418-0770 View (818) 418-0770
Photo of Kyla M Ramirez, MA, MS, ACSW
Kyla M Ramirez
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MA, MS, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95814
My specialties include trauma-informed practice, working with survivors of abuse and neglect, working with LGBTQ+, post-traumatic stress disorder, domestic violence, childhood trauma, teens/young adults, attachment-based therapy, burnout and secondary traumatic stress.
Life can be incredibly difficult at times and can feel overwhelming. It is my goal to empower my clients to believe in themselves, inspire change, and to allow space for self-love. When feelings of depression and anxiety are barriers to achieving your goals, leaving you feeling unworthy of happiness, and effecting your relationships, I am here to assist you in cultivating a sense of purpose and confidence. I want to help my clients set goals for their future, find their happiness, and thrive. I am here to provide a space for you to be you- your authentic self without judgement.
My specialties include trauma-informed practice, working with survivors of abuse and neglect, working with LGBTQ+, post-traumatic stress disorder, domestic violence, childhood trauma, teens/young adults, attachment-based therapy, burnout and secondary traumatic stress.
Life can be incredibly difficult at times and can feel overwhelming. It is my goal to empower my clients to believe in themselves, inspire change, and to allow space for self-love. When feelings of depression and anxiety are barriers to achieving your goals, leaving you feeling unworthy of happiness, and effecting your relationships, I am here to assist you in cultivating a sense of purpose and confidence. I want to help my clients set goals for their future, find their happiness, and thrive. I am here to provide a space for you to be you- your authentic self without judgement.
(530) 631-3140 View (530) 631-3140
Photo of Victoria Moran, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Moran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94206
Life can prove to be extremely difficult at times. However, it is these difficulties that can become incredible catalysts for deep healing and lasting change. I work with clients from an integrative & faith based approaches. This means that I intertwine a variety of modalities based on specific needs of a client with regards to the breadth of their life experience (i.e. mental, physical, cultural, faith).
Life can prove to be extremely difficult at times. However, it is these difficulties that can become incredible catalysts for deep healing and lasting change. I work with clients from an integrative & faith based approaches. This means that I intertwine a variety of modalities based on specific needs of a client with regards to the breadth of their life experience (i.e. mental, physical, cultural, faith).
(530) 296-6955 View (530) 296-6955
Photo of Molly Paris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Paris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95819  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach tends to be eclectic, pulling from various Psychodynamic theoretical frameworks including Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, as well as DBT and CBT.
Sharing our inner experiences with someone can often feel frightening, which is exactly why I place such an importance on connection and acceptance in the therapeutic process. I aim to create a safe environment that will invite my clients to delve deeper into their personal narrative, as I truly believe we are not built to process emotions alone. As humans, we all have a propensity to grow and become our true selves, unfortunately we aren’t always gifted with the circumstances to allow it. I am passionate about creating a space for not only self-discovery and self acceptance, but to allow clients to feel seen, heard, and valued.
My therapeutic approach tends to be eclectic, pulling from various Psychodynamic theoretical frameworks including Internal Family Systems, Emotion-Focused Therapy, Schema Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, as well as DBT and CBT.
Sharing our inner experiences with someone can often feel frightening, which is exactly why I place such an importance on connection and acceptance in the therapeutic process. I aim to create a safe environment that will invite my clients to delve deeper into their personal narrative, as I truly believe we are not built to process emotions alone. As humans, we all have a propensity to grow and become our true selves, unfortunately we aren’t always gifted with the circumstances to allow it. I am passionate about creating a space for not only self-discovery and self acceptance, but to allow clients to feel seen, heard, and valued.
(619) 658-8738 View (619) 658-8738
Photo of Erika Lin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erika Lin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95843
My name is Erika Lin and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that who we are today is shaped by our past experiences and relationships. I like to work with my clients to recognize, identify, and change patterns in their lives in order to work towards the life they wish to live! I come from a family systems-based background and I work with clients to identify and make changes in their relationships and environment to achieve long-lasting change. I often utilize a systems approach, such as structural family therapy. I also utilize an emotionally-focused and attachment-based approach to therapy.
My name is Erika Lin and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that who we are today is shaped by our past experiences and relationships. I like to work with my clients to recognize, identify, and change patterns in their lives in order to work towards the life they wish to live! I come from a family systems-based background and I work with clients to identify and make changes in their relationships and environment to achieve long-lasting change. I often utilize a systems approach, such as structural family therapy. I also utilize an emotionally-focused and attachment-based approach to therapy.
(707) 943-5797 View (707) 943-5797
Photo of Dania M Martinez, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dania M Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95814
Some of my specialties include: children and families treating victims of abuse and neglect post-traumatic stress disorder, domestic violence, mood disorders, addiction attachment-based therapy and I'm adoption competent!.
Have you been feeling depressed, anxious or just overwhelmed with life? Are you ready for change? My goal as a therapist is to inspire motivation and purpose, and to support individuals and families in reaching their goals. when circumstances seem impossible, my aim is to help you find the tools you need to overcome life's challenges. I work diligently to empower individuals to look inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose. Watching people grow, while discovering their true selves and their life potential, is a very rewarding experience for me.
Some of my specialties include: children and families treating victims of abuse and neglect post-traumatic stress disorder, domestic violence, mood disorders, addiction attachment-based therapy and I'm adoption competent!.
Have you been feeling depressed, anxious or just overwhelmed with life? Are you ready for change? My goal as a therapist is to inspire motivation and purpose, and to support individuals and families in reaching their goals. when circumstances seem impossible, my aim is to help you find the tools you need to overcome life's challenges. I work diligently to empower individuals to look inward to find a sense of confidence and purpose. Watching people grow, while discovering their true selves and their life potential, is a very rewarding experience for me.
(424) 379-5249 View (424) 379-5249
Photo of Rachel Chavez - Rachel Chavez, LCSW, PPS & Associates, LCSW, PPS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Chavez, LCSW, PPS & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 94203  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Social Work with a small team of amazing Associate Clinical Social Workers. Our specialties include working with children, teens and families, helping people of all ages heal from trauma and deal with stress and providing services including psychological evaluations for immigration cases. We also love working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, people who have migrated and their families and folks who have overcome multiple layers of hardship.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Pupil Personnel Services Credential in School Social Work with a small team of amazing Associate Clinical Social Workers. Our specialties include working with children, teens and families, helping people of all ages heal from trauma and deal with stress and providing services including psychological evaluations for immigration cases. We also love working with members of the LGBTQ+ community, people who have migrated and their families and folks who have overcome multiple layers of hardship.
(530) 643-4652 View (530) 643-4652
Photo of Nicholas K. Bennett, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicholas K. Bennett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 94203  (Online Only)
In couples therapy, I embrace the Gottman method and incorporate an attachment-based, emotionally focused approach.
I am licensed in both CA & WV. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, specific phobias, and trauma in clients pre-teen through late adulthood. I have served on integrative teams for parents and children in CPS cases as well as on collaborative teams providing treatment for clients residing in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with service members and Veterans, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender clients seeking gender reassignment surgeries.
In couples therapy, I embrace the Gottman method and incorporate an attachment-based, emotionally focused approach.
I am licensed in both CA & WV. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, specific phobias, and trauma in clients pre-teen through late adulthood. I have served on integrative teams for parents and children in CPS cases as well as on collaborative teams providing treatment for clients residing in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with service members and Veterans, survivors of sexual assault, and individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender clients seeking gender reassignment surgeries.
(805) 203-6673 View (805) 203-6673
Photo of Rahul Ragu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rahul Ragu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I work with clients who have social anxiety, shyness, and feel awkward and out of place. They want to feel better about themselves and their circumstances. They may have been through a difficult childhood and trauma and abuse. They are motivated to get better and want to speak to someone who is nonjudgmental and compassionate. Clients have opened up to me about their deepest traumas and secrets that they have not shared with anyone else. I feel honored to be part of my client's journey and help them to find solutions. I have a strong client centered approach blended with a CBT intervention based approach.
I work with clients who have social anxiety, shyness, and feel awkward and out of place. They want to feel better about themselves and their circumstances. They may have been through a difficult childhood and trauma and abuse. They are motivated to get better and want to speak to someone who is nonjudgmental and compassionate. Clients have opened up to me about their deepest traumas and secrets that they have not shared with anyone else. I feel honored to be part of my client's journey and help them to find solutions. I have a strong client centered approach blended with a CBT intervention based approach.
(916) 304-7674 View (916) 304-7674
Photo of Lucy Zhang, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lucy Zhang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
Brene Brown says, "If we really want to live a joyful, connected, and meaningful life, we must talk about things that get in the way.” - There are times in our lives where we feel disconnected with ourselves, others, and the world around us, and instead of living with compassion, clarity, and stillness, you are stuck feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, helpless, frustrated. It's so hard to do that alone - you're not supposed to do this on your own. I am here to support you get you out of the trenches. I am passionate about helping you navigate this journey of self-discovery towards growth and healing.
Brene Brown says, "If we really want to live a joyful, connected, and meaningful life, we must talk about things that get in the way.” - There are times in our lives where we feel disconnected with ourselves, others, and the world around us, and instead of living with compassion, clarity, and stillness, you are stuck feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, helpless, frustrated. It's so hard to do that alone - you're not supposed to do this on your own. I am here to support you get you out of the trenches. I am passionate about helping you navigate this journey of self-discovery towards growth and healing.
(760) 214-9578 View (760) 214-9578
Photo of Maris Loeffler: Brainspotting Certified Trauma-Informed, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maris Loeffler: Brainspotting Certified Trauma-Informed
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Now accepting new clients! Brainspotting Certified, Stanford Lifestyle Medicine Team Member, Somatic Experiencing, Sports Therapy - Expert trauma therapist empowering individuals to reclaim their lives. Specializing in trauma-informed care and personalized healing journeys. Skilled in evidence-based and body centered modalities for lasting transformation. Let's navigate your path to healing and renewal together. My priority is providing a safe, empathic and non-judgmental space .
Now accepting new clients! Brainspotting Certified, Stanford Lifestyle Medicine Team Member, Somatic Experiencing, Sports Therapy - Expert trauma therapist empowering individuals to reclaim their lives. Specializing in trauma-informed care and personalized healing journeys. Skilled in evidence-based and body centered modalities for lasting transformation. Let's navigate your path to healing and renewal together. My priority is providing a safe, empathic and non-judgmental space .
(916) 472-0737 View (916) 472-0737
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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.