We cannot alter how we were raised or change the experiences we have had in our lifetime. However, using attachment theory allows us to identify the relationship patterns we learned as children and shift our mindsets in order to have healthier relationships as adults. I often use attachment styles as a tool to help clients understand their “instincts” in relationships in order to create change.

I also use this approach when talking with parents about their relationships with their children and how they can create healthy bonds based on the Nurturing Parent Technique. We may never perfect parenting, but we can always learn new ways to interact with our children in a way that instills confidence, self-worth, and independence.