Attachment-based Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Michael Griffith, MFT, MA, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Griffith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Successfully helping individuals and couples has always been a priority to me. First and foremost I want you to feel comfortable and safe when we work together and this is essential to fostering your growth. I will be open with you in my understanding of your situation and to share what I can about options you might use in your life situation. Your sessions will encourage you to learn how to make sense of yourself in relationship to others, in love and work. Our work will leave you both supported and also challenged to explore new options in your personal style. Heal dental anxiety and phobias.
Successfully helping individuals and couples has always been a priority to me. First and foremost I want you to feel comfortable and safe when we work together and this is essential to fostering your growth. I will be open with you in my understanding of your situation and to share what I can about options you might use in your life situation. Your sessions will encourage you to learn how to make sense of yourself in relationship to others, in love and work. Our work will leave you both supported and also challenged to explore new options in your personal style. Heal dental anxiety and phobias.
(628) 244-8524 View (628) 244-8524
Photo of Veronica Elizabeth Encinas, MA, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Veronica Elizabeth Encinas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
My passion and dedication to this work lies in that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Everyone at some point in their life has had some frictions or challenges and need support to get through those times. I work experientially and relationally. Welcoming clients to tell their stories, histories, and important aspects of life.
My passion and dedication to this work lies in that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Everyone at some point in their life has had some frictions or challenges and need support to get through those times. I work experientially and relationally. Welcoming clients to tell their stories, histories, and important aspects of life.
(415) 895-9752 View (415) 895-9752
Photo of Molly Paris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Paris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (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 Natalie M. Mills, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natalie M. Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I approach my work from a strong foundation in mindfulness, insight-oriented training, Compassion-Focused Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
I work with individuals and couples who want to shift relational problem patterns by healing from trauma, deepening their self-awareness, and strengthening their connections with others. I offer tools to help people gain insight into their behavior, learn how to effectively manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and ameliorate destructive cycles. Collaboratively, my clients and I improve their self-concepts. I use a relational, attachment-based framework and draw on EMDR therapy when indicated.
I approach my work from a strong foundation in mindfulness, insight-oriented training, Compassion-Focused Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
I work with individuals and couples who want to shift relational problem patterns by healing from trauma, deepening their self-awareness, and strengthening their connections with others. I offer tools to help people gain insight into their behavior, learn how to effectively manage their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and ameliorate destructive cycles. Collaboratively, my clients and I improve their self-concepts. I use a relational, attachment-based framework and draw on EMDR therapy when indicated.
(415) 301-7713 View (415) 301-7713
Photo of Angelique Rochelle, LMFT, C148697, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelique Rochelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, C148697, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
Hi, I'm taking new clients. I work with all ages and I'm trained in trauma based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR. I offer individual and relationship therapy using attachment based therapies, solution-focused brief therapy, and Gestalt self-compassion techniques. I have worked with foster youth, couples, families, veterans, and the LGBTQ community. I have found my work to be professionally rewarding by assisting people in reaching their goals. In addition, I’m committed to advocating for people with disabilities and diverse populations. You can book with me by clicking on my website link.
Hi, I'm taking new clients. I work with all ages and I'm trained in trauma based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR. I offer individual and relationship therapy using attachment based therapies, solution-focused brief therapy, and Gestalt self-compassion techniques. I have worked with foster youth, couples, families, veterans, and the LGBTQ community. I have found my work to be professionally rewarding by assisting people in reaching their goals. In addition, I’m committed to advocating for people with disabilities and diverse populations. You can book with me by clicking on my website link.
(415) 862-1320 View (415) 862-1320
Photo of Danielle Sharon Levi, MA
Danielle Sharon Levi
MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Danielle (MA), a trauma-informed somatic coach specializing in intimacy, relationships and sexuality. I bring to my practice 9 years of experience working internationally with diverse women and couples to create deeper, more authentic and pleasurable relationships. In somatic coaching, we go beyond talk to create change through experiential, embodied and emotional learning, practice and feedback. My approach is sex positive, LGBTQ+ friendly, trauma and attachment based, informed by 11+ years of training in somatic and couples therapy, and enriched by the Somatica method, a unique pleasure-based approach to sex and intimacy.
Hi I'm Danielle (MA), a trauma-informed somatic coach specializing in intimacy, relationships and sexuality. I bring to my practice 9 years of experience working internationally with diverse women and couples to create deeper, more authentic and pleasurable relationships. In somatic coaching, we go beyond talk to create change through experiential, embodied and emotional learning, practice and feedback. My approach is sex positive, LGBTQ+ friendly, trauma and attachment based, informed by 11+ years of training in somatic and couples therapy, and enriched by the Somatica method, a unique pleasure-based approach to sex and intimacy.
(857) 370-4451 View (857) 370-4451
Photo of Alena Bell, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alena Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
Are you feeling anxious or down? Are you unsure about the future of a relationship, or wondering why you find yourself repeating the same patterns and behaviors? Therapy is a collaborative process of self-discovery and personal growth. I focus on helping my clients through the development of greater self-understanding, self-awareness and self-acceptance. I want to support you to make the changes you desire, and to live your life to the fullest. I treat a wide range of clinical issues and invite clients of diverse identities and backgrounds into my therapy practice.
Are you feeling anxious or down? Are you unsure about the future of a relationship, or wondering why you find yourself repeating the same patterns and behaviors? Therapy is a collaborative process of self-discovery and personal growth. I focus on helping my clients through the development of greater self-understanding, self-awareness and self-acceptance. I want to support you to make the changes you desire, and to live your life to the fullest. I treat a wide range of clinical issues and invite clients of diverse identities and backgrounds into my therapy practice.
(628) 800-0232 View (628) 800-0232
Photo of Megan Williams, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94109
I offer a warm, collaborative approach intended to foster personal growth and self understanding for individuals and couples. I specialize in helping clients navigate through relationship challenges addictions, self esteem issues ,Premarital and Divorce challenges. Using psychodynamic , holistic and present moment therapeutic approaches , my work is intended to help clients cultivate their own inner healing and enabling them to make meaningful and lasting change. Honoring every individual and couple as unique, I bring an engaged and compassionate presence to our work together.
I offer a warm, collaborative approach intended to foster personal growth and self understanding for individuals and couples. I specialize in helping clients navigate through relationship challenges addictions, self esteem issues ,Premarital and Divorce challenges. Using psychodynamic , holistic and present moment therapeutic approaches , my work is intended to help clients cultivate their own inner healing and enabling them to make meaningful and lasting change. Honoring every individual and couple as unique, I bring an engaged and compassionate presence to our work together.
(415) 835-2139 View (415) 835-2139
Photo of Danett Williams, EdS
Danett Williams
EdS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
My practice is attachment-based.
Clients who come to me are often seeking help for an IEP evaluation after being denied by their school. Some come for themselves curious if they have ADHD or are on the spectrum. Are you trying to understand and get a handle on your child's difficulties at home and school? Does your child show symptoms of autism? Do you wonder if you or your child have a learning disability? Did your child spend extensive time in the NICU and/or PICU and you wonder if this affected their development? Did you adopt from an orphanage and now your child is exhibiting extreme behaviors that you do not understand and cannot manage? I am here to help!
My practice is attachment-based.
Clients who come to me are often seeking help for an IEP evaluation after being denied by their school. Some come for themselves curious if they have ADHD or are on the spectrum. Are you trying to understand and get a handle on your child's difficulties at home and school? Does your child show symptoms of autism? Do you wonder if you or your child have a learning disability? Did your child spend extensive time in the NICU and/or PICU and you wonder if this affected their development? Did you adopt from an orphanage and now your child is exhibiting extreme behaviors that you do not understand and cannot manage? I am here to help!
(628) 345-3261 View (628) 345-3261
Photo of Maeve Odile Jackson-Dufault, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Maeve Odile Jackson-Dufault
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
My approach to therapy is integral; I work from an attachment and trauma informed lens with a deep grounding in relational psychoanalytic theory. I have experience with treating depression and anxiety, low self-esteem, questions of gender and sexuality, complex family dynamics, relationship issues, chronic pain, and grief work. My wish it to foster a therapeutic space that feels both challenging as well as safe so that we can work together to meet your treatment goals. In our work together I may bring in mindfulness techniques, parts work, attachment theory, dream work, movement, and myth.
My approach to therapy is integral; I work from an attachment and trauma informed lens with a deep grounding in relational psychoanalytic theory. I have experience with treating depression and anxiety, low self-esteem, questions of gender and sexuality, complex family dynamics, relationship issues, chronic pain, and grief work. My wish it to foster a therapeutic space that feels both challenging as well as safe so that we can work together to meet your treatment goals. In our work together I may bring in mindfulness techniques, parts work, attachment theory, dream work, movement, and myth.
(510) 513-4604 View (510) 513-4604
Photo of Lonnie Ferguson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lonnie Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
My practice focuses on helping LGBTQ+ individuals and couples understand their present experience by identifying obstacles, patterns and core beliefs that become barriers to true growth and change. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, maladaptive coping skills, low self esteem, challenges with trust, intimacy and communication, open and polyamorous relationships. Utilizing attachment-based and emotional focused models along with integrated mindfulness and somatic practices, I strive to help clients find the right tools repair the wounds, strengthen relationships and learn to love themselves. It begins with one decision.
My practice focuses on helping LGBTQ+ individuals and couples understand their present experience by identifying obstacles, patterns and core beliefs that become barriers to true growth and change. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, maladaptive coping skills, low self esteem, challenges with trust, intimacy and communication, open and polyamorous relationships. Utilizing attachment-based and emotional focused models along with integrated mindfulness and somatic practices, I strive to help clients find the right tools repair the wounds, strengthen relationships and learn to love themselves. It begins with one decision.
(628) 265-8720 View (628) 265-8720
Photo of Cherise Arzaga, LCSW, 74795, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cherise Arzaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, 74795
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Are you a driven person yet having difficulties managing your relationships, work stress, and family life? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Do you need help getting through a traumatic event? Are you feeling like you’ve exhausted all your coping skills and nothing seems to work? From a trauma informed and attachment-based lens we will explore your core issues and help you improve your mental health and emotional well-being. You can heal from past trauma, learn to regulate your emotions, lift your mood, and communicate effectively. Together we'll work through unresolved feelings and patterns to live a more authentic life now.
Are you a driven person yet having difficulties managing your relationships, work stress, and family life? Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Do you need help getting through a traumatic event? Are you feeling like you’ve exhausted all your coping skills and nothing seems to work? From a trauma informed and attachment-based lens we will explore your core issues and help you improve your mental health and emotional well-being. You can heal from past trauma, learn to regulate your emotions, lift your mood, and communicate effectively. Together we'll work through unresolved feelings and patterns to live a more authentic life now.
(415) 619-5433 View (415) 619-5433
Photo of Jose Luna, ASW, EMDR
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(415) 980-7064 View (415) 980-7064
Photo of Ruby Wara-Goss - Radical Roots Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Radical Roots Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
Ruby draws upon multiple therapeutic approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, attachment-based science, family systems, EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), mindfulness practices, harm reduction principles, non-violent communication, and Gottman methodology.
Ruby (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW 101630) who brings a decade of experience supporting youth, young adults, caregivers, families, and individuals navigate loss and attachment ruptures, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, family conflict, life stressors, and the life cycle. Ruby approaches her sessions with warmth, humility, and a strengths-based lens, valuing collaboration, authenticity, and creativity.
Ruby draws upon multiple therapeutic approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, attachment-based science, family systems, EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE), mindfulness practices, harm reduction principles, non-violent communication, and Gottman methodology.
Ruby (she/her/hers) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW 101630) who brings a decade of experience supporting youth, young adults, caregivers, families, and individuals navigate loss and attachment ruptures, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, family conflict, life stressors, and the life cycle. Ruby approaches her sessions with warmth, humility, and a strengths-based lens, valuing collaboration, authenticity, and creativity.
(510) 491-0155 View (510) 491-0155
Photo of Karen Marie Forsthoff, MAMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Marie Forsthoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94116  (Online Only)
I have experience with Integrated Family Systems IFS); Relational Life Therapy (RLT); Systemic Models; Interpersonal Neurobiology: Attachment-Based Therapy; and Substance Use.
Are you feeling stuck and unhappy? Are you struggling in your work or family life? Do you want more from your relationships? If so, it might be time to reach out to a professional for help. Taking care of your mental health is a sign of self-compassion. It's the beginning of the healing process. Whether you choose to engage in Individual, Couple, or Family Therapy together we can find a way to restore a sense of hope and well-being. Please contact me for more information on how therapy can help you reach your goals.
I have experience with Integrated Family Systems IFS); Relational Life Therapy (RLT); Systemic Models; Interpersonal Neurobiology: Attachment-Based Therapy; and Substance Use.
Are you feeling stuck and unhappy? Are you struggling in your work or family life? Do you want more from your relationships? If so, it might be time to reach out to a professional for help. Taking care of your mental health is a sign of self-compassion. It's the beginning of the healing process. Whether you choose to engage in Individual, Couple, or Family Therapy together we can find a way to restore a sense of hope and well-being. Please contact me for more information on how therapy can help you reach your goals.
(628) 257-8065 View (628) 257-8065
Photo of Alexandra Haas, MFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Haas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I specialize in attachment theory, addiction/addiction related issues, & becoming more aligned with your authentic self. I also enjoy working with couples wanting to strengthen communication skills or rebuild trust within their relationship. Caregivers were the first to teach us how to relate to others. Healthy relationships are often not modeled for us & we wonder why the same patterns repeat. I can help you gain insight into these patterns & we will work together to have healthier relationships. My goal is to get to know you, establish a strong connection, and provide a safe space to begin your healing journey together.
I specialize in attachment theory, addiction/addiction related issues, & becoming more aligned with your authentic self. I also enjoy working with couples wanting to strengthen communication skills or rebuild trust within their relationship. Caregivers were the first to teach us how to relate to others. Healthy relationships are often not modeled for us & we wonder why the same patterns repeat. I can help you gain insight into these patterns & we will work together to have healthier relationships. My goal is to get to know you, establish a strong connection, and provide a safe space to begin your healing journey together.
(415) 569-2869 View (415) 569-2869
Photo of Arthur Paiva, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arthur Paiva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
My approach integrates principles from somatic, psychodynamic, attachment-based therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), allowing me to tailor treatment to the unique needs of each client.
Welcome! As a therapist, I prioritize building genuine relationships with my clients and creating a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where individuals feel comfortable embracing their authentic selves. My style is highly interactive and collaborative, rooted in the belief that therapy's transformative power emerges when both therapist and client invest time and effort into the healing process.
My approach integrates principles from somatic, psychodynamic, attachment-based therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), allowing me to tailor treatment to the unique needs of each client.
Welcome! As a therapist, I prioritize building genuine relationships with my clients and creating a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where individuals feel comfortable embracing their authentic selves. My style is highly interactive and collaborative, rooted in the belief that therapy's transformative power emerges when both therapist and client invest time and effort into the healing process.
(628) 265-3062 View (628) 265-3062
Photo of Marion Swenson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marion Swenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
My name is Marion Swenson. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My approach to therapy is to discover who my client is and how I may help them. My focus is to listen deeply to the heart of my client and to walk with them while on their healing journey. My approach to therapy is simply listening to my client and collaborating with them to attain their goal/goals. The theoretical approaches utilized in my practice are CBT, attachment-based, and family systems.
My name is Marion Swenson. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. My approach to therapy is to discover who my client is and how I may help them. My focus is to listen deeply to the heart of my client and to walk with them while on their healing journey. My approach to therapy is simply listening to my client and collaborating with them to attain their goal/goals. The theoretical approaches utilized in my practice are CBT, attachment-based, and family systems.
(415) 715-1707 View (415) 715-1707
Photo of Lisa Case, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Case
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
My approach is grounded in depth therapy and includes attachment-based, trauma-informed, and somatic orientations.
I specialize in helping individuals who experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interrelational/ interfamilial conflicts. My aim is to support you in a safe and non-judgmental container, where we can explore the roots of your issues, as well as provide you skills which can help to alleviate any symptoms/ conflicts you may have. I believe that you are the expert of your story and hold a space that is of compassion and unconditional positive regard. I also offer online ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, when indicated for various diagnoses that may have been treatment-resistant with traditional forms of talk therapy.
My approach is grounded in depth therapy and includes attachment-based, trauma-informed, and somatic orientations.
I specialize in helping individuals who experience chronic stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and interrelational/ interfamilial conflicts. My aim is to support you in a safe and non-judgmental container, where we can explore the roots of your issues, as well as provide you skills which can help to alleviate any symptoms/ conflicts you may have. I believe that you are the expert of your story and hold a space that is of compassion and unconditional positive regard. I also offer online ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, when indicated for various diagnoses that may have been treatment-resistant with traditional forms of talk therapy.
(510) 949-5329 View (510) 949-5329
Photo of Ashley Hamilton, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Hamilton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Do you feel anxious in your relationships? I can help. I specialize in anxiety, relationships, and in attachment-based, relational trauma, informed by neuroscience and the nervous-system. From heart-break and dating, to recognizing a secure partner, or healing yourself and past relationships, I work with clients who want to develop more confidence, security and clarity in themselves, their relationships and the world. We'll be looking at your self, in your current relationships, and diving into your past to uncover the patterns that keep you stuck. We'll be noticing your strengths, and honoring your authentic feelings and needs.
Do you feel anxious in your relationships? I can help. I specialize in anxiety, relationships, and in attachment-based, relational trauma, informed by neuroscience and the nervous-system. From heart-break and dating, to recognizing a secure partner, or healing yourself and past relationships, I work with clients who want to develop more confidence, security and clarity in themselves, their relationships and the world. We'll be looking at your self, in your current relationships, and diving into your past to uncover the patterns that keep you stuck. We'll be noticing your strengths, and honoring your authentic feelings and needs.
(415) 915-7610 View (415) 915-7610
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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.