Treating Attachment Disorders: From Theory to Therapy

Organised around extended case illustrations—and grounded in cutting-edge theory and research—this highly regarded book shows how an attachment perspective can inform psychotherapeutic practice with patients of all ages. Karl Heinz Brisch explores the links between early experiences of separation, loss, and trauma and a range of psychological, behavioural, and psychosomatic problems. He demonstrates the basic techniques of attachment-based assessment and intervention, emphasising the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. With a primary focus on treating infants and young children and their caregivers, the book discusses applications of attachment-based psychotherapy over the entire life course.

New to This Edition

• Incorporates advances in research on neurobiology, genetics, and psychotraumatology.
• Expanded with a section on inpatient treatment for traumatised children, including in-depth cases.
• Describes two promising prevention programs for expectant couples, families, and young children.
• The latest knowledge on disorganised attachment, attachment disorders, and assessments.

Table of Contents

Foreword, Lotte Köhler

Introduction

I. Attachment Theory and Its Basic Concepts

II. Attachment Disorders

III. Attachment-Based Psychotherapy

IV. Treatment Cases From Clinical Practice

V. Treatment of Early Childhood Developmental Disorders in An Inpatient Intensive Psychotherapy Unit: a New Model of Treatment

VI. Prospects For Further Application

Afterword, Inge Bretherton

Appendix: Brief Précis of the Adult Attachment Interview Protocol