John Bowlby is a British psychologist who was one of the first attachment theorists. Bowlby was known for his work analyzing separation anxiety and attachment between infants and their primary caregivers. Bowlby proposed that attachment was derived from children needing parents for nourishment and feeding. Though its roots are due to evolutionary processes that increase the chances of survival; attachment has an emotional component. The “Strange Situation” study by psychologist Mary Ainsworth and Harry Harlow’s Maternal Deprivation study added to Bowlby’s original work helping us to further understand that the types of attachments formed to primary caregivers during early stages of development can impact interpersonal relationships later in life.
The first three attachment styles can be grouped together to be characterized as insecure attachments. Those who have secure attachment styles thrive in their relationships without fearing vulnerability, set healthy boundaries, can regulate emotions during conflicts, and communicate in a healthy way. While we know that insecure attachments can be formed due to unhealthy caregiver-child relationships, it is important to know that the characteristics of a secure attachment; while not easy, can be learned. If you would like some support developing the characteristics of a secure attachment style, contact one of our practitioners.
Mariah Dookie is a licensed professional counselor and trauma-informed practitioner. She specializes in anxiety, stress management, body image issues, and perfectionism in adults.
We offer in-person and virtual services – contact us today to learn more!
Whether you struggle with an anxious, avoidant, or anxious-avoidant attachment style, we are all capable of developing secure attachment. Here are 5 steps that will help guide you through the
Brooke is a psychotherapist who specializes in helping clients dealing with difficult life transitions, symptoms of anxiety or depression, and LGBTQ+-related issues. She practices a collective and modern approach to mental health counseling, which is rooted in genuineness and vulnerability.
We offer in-person and virtual services – contact us today to learn more!
The Self Mandala was created as a way to illustrate how each part of our being deserves acknowledgment, consideration, and exploration. By tuning into each of these rings, we can cultivate
Brooke Sanders is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, ADHD, and maternal mental health. She helps teens and adults improve their relationships with themselves and others by fostering understanding, compassion, and acceptance.
We offer in-person and virtual services – contact us today to learn more!
Grief is the sorrow and anguish felt following a loss. Most common losses can include the death of a loved one, the loss of a job or relationship or even
Mariah Dookie is a licensed professional counselor and trauma-informed practitioner. She specializes in anxiety, stress management, body image issues, and perfectionism in adults.
We offer in-person and virtual services – contact us today to learn more!