Abstract
Purpose We aimed to provide an integrated overview of the key goals and strategies of an attachment-informed psychotherapy by summarizing the literature describing the clinical implications of attachment theory for psychological therapy for adults. Method We carried out a narrative thematic review of 58 texts from a diverse range of therapeutic schools, until we agreed that we had reached a saturation of themes. Results We identified six key themes: Changing internal working models; the therapeutic relationship and creating a secure base; formulating and processing relationship experiences; countertransference; separation, termination and boundary issues; and working with different attachment styles or patterns. We discuss empirical evidence in relation to each theme and highlight areas for research. Conclusions Attachment theory provides a useful framework to inform psychological therapy with adults, but there is a pressing need for further research to empirically demonstrate the 'added value' of an attachment perspective.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 15-32 |
Number of pages | 18 |
Journal | Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice |
Volume | 89 |
Issue number | 1 |
Early online date | 14 Jul 2015 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Mar 2016 |
Keywords
- attachment
- clinical practice
- psychotherapy
- secure base
- therapeutic relationship