Attachment Theory

Attachment Theory

The therapists at Create Balance Psychotherapy and Counselling utilise attachment based therapies to support a range of mental health issues, such as relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, addiction, confidence concerns, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD.

Attachment theory is based on the work of John Bowlby who theorised that the relationship formed between a child and their primary caregiver is responsible for the social, emotional and cognitive blueprint for the way they form and maintain relationships in adulthood. It is believed that the responsiveness of a child’s caregiver will influence the degree of anxiety and the degree of emotional avoidance they experience in adult relationships. There are four different types of attachments. Although you may demonstrate characteristics from each attachment type, being able to recognise your primary attachment style can be hugely beneficial in understanding yourself and your relationships with others. It is also important to note that a secure attachment style can be learned in the right environments, even if an individual has experienced avoidant, ambivalent or disorganised responses from their caregivers.