Attachment in Therapeutic Practice

Synopsis

This is a concise, accessible introduction to the basic principles of attachment theory, and their application to therapeutic practice. Bringing together 70 years' of theory and research, its expert authors provide a much-needed user-friendly guide to attachment-informed psychotherapy.

The book covers:

• The history, research base, and key figures and concepts of attachment theory
• The key concepts of attachment theory, and their implications for practice
• Neuroscience implications of attachment and its therapeutic relevance
• The parallels and differences between parent-child attachment and the therapeutic relationship
• The application of attachment in adult individual psychotherapy across a number of settings, also to couples and families
• The applications of attachment to working with complex disorders
• The applications of attachment in child psychotherapy

Summary

Chapter 1: Attachment Theory: A Framework for Understanding Relationships

* Definition and history of attachment theory
* Attachment styles (secure, insecure-avoidant, insecure-ambivalent, insecure-disorganized)
* Implications for therapy: understanding clients' relationship patterns and vulnerabilities

Example: A client who struggles in relationships and displays insecure-ambivalent attachment may crave closeness but also fear abandonment.

Chapter 2: Attachment in Therapeutic Relationships

* Role of the therapist in providing a secure base
* Therapeutic interventions to promote secure attachment
* Challenges and ethical considerations: managing countertransference and potential retraumatization

Example: A therapist using the "corrective emotional experience" approach to help a client with insecure-avoidant attachment recognize and express their emotions safely.

Chapter 3: Attachment and Individual Psychotherapy

* Manifestations of insecure attachment in individual therapy
* Treatment strategies for specific attachment styles
* Promoting self-awareness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills

Example: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help clients with insecure-disorganized attachment develop coping mechanisms and manage anxiety.

Chapter 4: Attachment and Group Therapy

* Benefits and challenges of group therapy for attachment-related issues
* Role of the group as a secure base and socializing agent
* Potential for positive peer interactions and attachment reparative experiences

Example: A group therapy session where members provide mutual support and challenge unhelpful attachment beliefs.

Chapter 5: Attachment and Couple Therapy

* Impact of attachment on romantic relationships
* Treatment strategies for improving attachment quality and relationship dynamics
* Importance of empathy, communication, and emotional attunement

Example: Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) can help couples understand and repair attachment breaches.

Chapter 6: Attachment and Parenting

* Attachment relationships in the parent-child bond
* Consequences of insecure attachment in children
* Attachment-based parenting interventions: promoting a secure attachment environment

Example: A parenting program that teaches parents to respond sensitively to their child's needs and provide consistent care.

Chapter 7: Attachment and Spirituality

* Relationship between attachment theory and spiritual beliefs
* Attachment styles can influence spiritual experiences
* Importance of integrating spiritual perspectives into attachment-informed therapy

Example: A therapist using mindfulness meditation to help a client with insecure-ambivalent attachment develop a sense of inner security and connection.

Chapter 8: Attachment and Trauma

* Impact of trauma on attachment relationships
* Attachment-informed trauma therapy: providing a safe and supportive environment
* Strategies for working with clients who have experienced attachment disruptions

Example: Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) can help clients with trauma histories develop coping skills and process traumatic memories.