Attachment-Based Therapy

Attachment-Based Therapy in Texas

Understand how you connect, and build relationships that feel safe.

Attachment-based therapy looks at how your earliest relationships shaped the way you trust, love and seek comfort today. With a licensed Dua Health therapist, you explore those patterns and practice new ways of connecting that feel more secure. Sessions are available online across Texas and in person in Austin.

Most insured members pay a $25 copay

Attachment-based therapy at Dua Health is covered by most major insurance plans, including Optum, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna and Oscar. Paying out of pocket? Self-pay sessions are $110. There is no waitlist.

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What is attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is grounded in attachment theory, developed by psychiatrist John Bowlby and expanded by psychologist Mary Ainsworth. The theory explains how the bond between a child and their caregivers shapes what we expect from relationships throughout life.

These early experiences can lead to different attachment styles: secure, anxious, avoidant or disorganized. Your attachment style is not fixed. A safe, consistent therapy relationship can help you build more security over time.

How attachment-based therapy works

Attachment-based therapy focuses on your relationships, past and present. Sessions often include:

Exploring your story

You look at your early relationships and how they may connect to the patterns you notice today.

Recognizing your attachment style

You learn how you tend to respond when you feel close to someone, or when you fear losing them.

Working with emotions in the moment

Your therapist helps you notice and stay with feelings like fear, longing or anger, instead of pushing them away.

A secure therapy relationship

The bond with your therapist becomes a safe place to practice trust, honesty and repair after conflict.

What to expect

Attachment work often happens over months rather than weeks. Many people notice changes in how they handle closeness and conflict as therapy goes on.

What can attachment-based therapy help with?

Our therapists use attachment-based therapy to support people with:

Relationship anxiety Fear of abandonment or rejection Difficulty trusting others Avoiding closeness or commitment Repeating unhealthy relationship patterns Childhood trauma or emotional neglect Breakups and divorce Parenting challenges

Is attachment-based therapy right for you?

Attachment-based therapy may be a good fit if you:

Notice the same patterns across different relationships

Worry about being too much or not enough for others

Pull away when people get close

Want to understand how your past affects your present

How attachment-based therapy compares to other approaches

Approach Main focus Typical length
Attachment-based therapy How early relationships shape the way you connect today Medium to long term
Parts work (IFS-informed) Understanding and healing the parts of you that protect or carry pain Medium to long term
Trauma-informed therapy Safety, choice and healing at your pace Short to long term
Person-centered therapy A warm, non-judgmental space where you lead Flexible

Not sure which approach suits you? Our care team will help match you with a therapist whose style fits your needs.

How to start attachment-based therapy at Dua Health

1

Tell us about yourself

Spend about 15 minutes sharing your history and what you would like help with.

2

Talk with a care expert

A quick 15-minute call helps us understand your goals.

3

Get matched with an attachment-focused therapist

Review your recommended therapists and book your first session within 24 hours.

4

Begin your sessions

Meet online from anywhere in Texas or in person at our Austin office.

Attachment-based therapy FAQs

Build relationships that feel safe

Work with a licensed attachment-focused therapist online across Texas or in person in Austin.