PROFESSIONAL PSYCHOLOGISTS TRAINED IN ATTACHMENT-BASED THERAPY IN EDMONTON
Attachment-Based Therapy in Edmonton
TRUSTED THERAPISTS SPECIALIZING IN ATTACHMENT-BASED THERAPY IN EDMONTON & AREA
About Attachment-Based Therapy in Edmonton
Attachment-Based Therapy benefits individuals including children and adults, as well as couples and families. Our therapists have advanced training in Attachment-Based Therapy at our clinics in Edmonton and St. Albert.
This type of therapy can help with concerns that arise as a result of negative early life experiences – for instance, difficulties in forming meaningful relationships with others, experiencing fear of abandonment or being alone, self-esteem issues, and many others. This approach is heavily influenced by John Bowlby’s attachment theory concerning interpersonal relationships in childhood and how this translates to one’s ability to develop healthy connections in adulthood. More specifically, the theory is centered on the attachment formed between the child and his/her primary caregiver from birth through the early years of development, and how this process is imperative for normal social and emotional development in the later years to come.
The goal of Attachment-Based Therapy is for the therapist and the client to develop a secure attachment within a therapeutic setting, and then for the client to apply the skills learned in this newly formed relationship outside of therapy. Through this process the therapist assumes the role of the mentor or attachment figure, which enables the client to refine their beliefs about themselves and others. As a result, the client learns to express his/her thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and communicate needs in a much more adaptive way, all of which ultimately yields positive results in relationships. Adopting a secure attachment style is beneficial for adult relationships, as well as relationships with one’s children. Insecure attachment styles are learned and are passed down intergenerationally; however, these unhealthy patterns can be changed through effective therapy.
The 4 Different Types of Attachment Styles
Secure Attachment Style:
Individuals with a secure attachment style typically had consistent, responsive caregiving in childhood, which fostered a strong sense of trust and safety. As adults, they tend to have healthy self-esteem, balanced emotional regulation, and the ability to form stable, supportive relationships. They are generally comfortable with both intimacy and independence, can communicate their needs effectively, and are receptive to others’ needs without feeling overwhelmed. They also respect healthy boundaries, seek support when needed, and tend to respond to relationship stress with resilience and flexibility.
Avoidant Attachment Style (Dismissive-Avoidant):
Avoidantly attached individuals often had early caregivers who were emotionally unavailable or dismissive. As a result, they learned to suppress their emotional needs and rely heavily on themselves. In adulthood, this may appear as emotional detachment, reluctance to depend on others, and discomfort with closeness or vulnerability. They might prioritize independence over connection and can seem aloof, distant, or withdrawn in intimate relationships, often avoiding deep emotional expression to protect themselves from perceived rejection or loss of control.
Anxious Attachment Style (Preoccupied):
This attachment pattern often develops from inconsistent caregiving, where the child’s emotional needs were unpredictably met. Adults with anxious attachment frequently struggle with fears of abandonment and rejection. They may become overly focused on their relationships, seeking constant reassurance, feeling insecure or clingy, and having difficulty trusting their partner’s commitment. They tend to internalize distress, overanalyze interactions, and may experience heightened emotional reactivity in response to relational stress or perceived slights.
Disorganized Attachment Style (Fearful-Avoidant):
Disorganized attachment often stems from childhood trauma, neglect, or frightening caregiving experiences. These individuals hold conflicting desires for closeness and fear of intimacy. As a result, they may display unpredictable or chaotic relationship patterns, alternating between clinginess and withdrawal. Emotional regulation is often a challenge, and they may struggle with dissociation, trust issues, or intense emotional outbursts. Despite longing for connection, they often fear vulnerability and may sabotage relationships due to a deep-rooted belief that others cannot be trusted or will cause harm.
References:
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Attachment-based psychotherapy in practice.https://www.apa.org/pubs/videos/4310926?tab=1.
Gould, W. R. (2021, November 1). What to know about attachment therapy.Verywellmind.https://www.verywellmind.com/attachment-therapy-definition-techniques-and-efficacy-5203776#what-is-attachment-therapy.
Marriage. (n.d.). Abt therapy: What is attachment-based therapy? Marriage.com – Building World’s Largest Marriage Resource.https://www.marriage.com/experts/types-of-therapy/attachment-based-family-therapy.
“Our early relationships form the blueprint for how we connect with others, but that blueprint can always be revised.”
— Dr. Sue Johnson
Direct billing is available for select insurance companies.
Please note that coverage varies by provider and policy. In the event that your plan does not allow for direct billing, you will be provided with a detailed receipt to submit for reimbursement.
Don’t live in Edmonton?
In addition to in-clinic sessions in Edmonton and St. Albert, our psychologists offer secure virtual attachment therapy sessions (video or phone) for anyone living in Alberta. Access quality therapy from the comfort of your own home.
Book your Attachment-Based Therapy session in Edmonton or St. Albert.