I
Insight Horizon Media

How do you become a attachment therapist?

Author

Daniel Rodriguez

Published Feb 14, 2026

How do you become a attachment therapist?

A Master’s Degree (or above) in psychology is usually a prerequisite to training in this very specialized field. The next step is to study with an experienced, trained Attachment Therapist. Some of them offer internship/trainings including observation and hands on experience working with clients.

Is ABFT evidence based?

Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) is the only empirically supported family therapy model designed to treat adolescent depression. This book describes clinical strategies for therapists, as well as the theoretical basis of the approach and the evidence base that supports it.

How do I become a family therapist UK?

To become a credited and licensed family therapist, it’s necessary that you undertake a four-year master’s programme in systematic psychotherapy and family therapy. It’s also a requirement that you have a relevant prior qualification such as nursing, psychology and social work.

Who created attachment family therapy?

“Parenting is built on two pillars—love and empathy, and structure and protection,” says Guy Diamond, PhD, co-creator of Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) and a consultant and clinical trainer for Newport Academy.

What are the four attachment styles?

Bowlby identified four types of attachment styles: secure, anxious-ambivalent, disorganised and avoidant.

Is attachment theory humanistic?

Attachment theory: A humanistic approach for research and practice across cultures.

What is the focal target of the ABFT interventions?

Attachment-Based Family Therapy (ABFT) is the only manualized, empirically supported family therapy model specifically designed to target family and individual processes associated with adolescent suicide and depression.

What does attachment-based therapy do?

Attachment-based therapy aims to build or rebuild a trusting, supportive relationship that will help prevent or treat anxiety or depression.

Can you get family therapy on the NHS?

You can get free psychological therapies, including counselling for depression, on the NHS. You do not need a referral from a GP. You can refer yourself directly to a psychological therapies service. Or you can get a referral from a GP if you prefer.

How much do therapists make UK?

Starting salaries for trainee psychotherapists in the NHS usually start at around £31,365 (Band 6 of the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay rates). Qualified NHS psychotherapists typically earn £38,890 to £44,503 (Band 7). Salaries for principal psychotherapists can rise to between £45,753 and £62,001 (Bands 8a and 8b).

What are attachment based models?

An attachment-based approach to therapy looks at the connection between an infant’s early attachment experiences with primary caregivers, usually with parents, and the infant’s ability to develop normally and ultimately form healthy emotional and physical relationships as an adult.