Join the International Attachment Network

Join IAN Wherever You Are in the World

Connect with a Community Dedicated to Attachment

The International Attachment Network (IAN UK) brings together people with a shared interest in attachment theory, research and its thoughtful application in professional practice and everyday life.

You do not need to live or work in the UK to become an IAN UK member. Our membership is open internationally, and we welcome professionals, researchers, students and others interested in attachment theory from across the world.

Join a growing international community committed to learning, exchanging ideas and advancing understanding of attachment and its importance in human relationships.

Learn. Connect. Contribute. Belong.

Learn. Connect. Contribute. Belong.

Memberships

Since 1992, IAN has been at the heart of attachment theory education and practice in the UK. Founded in connection with John Bowlby's pioneering work, we bring together professionals who believe that understanding attachment transforms lives.

IAN UK welcomes members from anywhere in the world. Connect with an international community of clinicians, researchers, academics, practitioners, students and others interested in attachment theory, research and its application

Choose Your IAN Membership

Whether you are a student or trainee, an experienced practitioner, researcher, academic or simply someone with a strong interest in attachment theory, there is a way to become part of IAN UK. Choose the membership that best reflects where you are now and join our international attachment community.

Student/Trainee Membership

For students and trainees who want to deepen their understanding of attachment theory and become part of the IAN community.

Standard Membership

For professionals and others who want to connect with IAN, attend events and training at reduced rates, and continue developing their understanding of attachment.

Full Premium Membership

For professionals who want the fullest access to IAN, including enhanced discounts, member resources, the Attachment & Human Development journal and eligibility to apply for the IAN Therapist Directory where relevant requirements are met.

Professionals in conversation, reflecting learning and connection through IAN membership

Attachment theory continues to evolve through research, clinical practice and dialogue across disciplines.

IAN membership connects you with a community of people who want to understand these developments, exchange ideas and contribute to the thoughtful application of attachment theory in professional practice and wider society.

As a member, you can take part in IAN’s growing programme of events, discussions, training and professional learning, while supporting our work to advance attachment knowledge, research and public understanding.

Learn. Connect. Contribute. Belong.

Why Join IAN?

Members of a diverse professional community connected through the International Attachment Network

IAN membership is about more than attending events at a reduced rate. It is an opportunity to stay connected with contemporary attachment thinking, continue your professional learning and become part of a community interested in how attachment theory can contribute to understanding relationships and human development.

Through membership, you can engage with IAN’s programme of events, discussions, training, articles and professional learning, connect with others interested in attachment, and support our developing work in research, education and public understanding.

Are you a therapist? Full Members may apply for inclusion in the IAN Therapist Directory once they meet IAN’s professional, clinical practice and attachment training requirements. Directory inclusion is subject to IAN’s review and approval process.

What You Gain as an IAN Member

Lifetime Membership

For those who want to make a lasting commitment to IAN and support the future of attachment theory, education and professional dialogue.

Lifetime Membership is a one-time payment of £750, providing permanent membership of the International Attachment Network without annual renewals.

By becoming a Lifetime Member, you are not only investing in your own continuing connection with attachment theory and the IAN community, you are also helping to support IAN’s long-term work in education, research, professional learning and public understanding. Lifetime Membership is open to people anywhere in the world.

Professional community gathered together, representing lifelong connection with the International Attachment Network
Lifetime Membership
£750.00
One time

Join a circle of professionals who are making a lasting commitment to attachment theory and IAN's mission. Your one-time investment of £750 ensures you'll never miss a moment of learning, connection, or growth for the rest of your career and beyond. When you become a Lifetime Member, you're not just investing in yourself you're investing in the future of attachment-informed practice for generations to come.

✓ Permanent membership status No renewals, no lapses,
✓ All benefits of Full membership for life
✓ Your name permanently listed as a founding supporter
✓ Invitation to contribute to IAN publications
✓ Complimentary guest passes (2 per year)

  • "....the capacity to make intimate emotional bonds with other individuals, sometimes in the care seeking role and sometimes in the caregiving one, is regarded as a principle feature of effective personality functioning and mental health."

    John Bowlby, (p.136, A Secure Base)

Your Questions, Answered

    • Direct connection to Bowlby - Founded by his colleagues

    • 30+ years established - Long track record of quality

    • International community – welcoming members from the UK and around the world

    • Bridge research and practice - Not just academic or just applied

    • Intimate events - Smaller than commercial conferences

    • Inclusive - Professionals AND families welcome

    • Charity status - Reinvest all funds into mission

  • As a registered charity, all fees support:

    • Hosting events, workshops, and training

    • Maintaining member resources and platforms

    • Developing new content and programs

    • Supporting international IAN chapters

    • Research initiatives and partnerships

    • Advocacy and public education

    • Operational costs (staff, technology, administration)

    No shareholders or profit-taking—everything reinvested in our mission.

  • Membership is open to professionals for whom attachment theory forms a significant part of their work, including:

    • Psychologists

    • Psychotherapists

    • Psychoanalysts

    • Psychiatrists

    • Paediatricians

    • Counselors

    • Teachers

    • Neuroscientists

    • Social workers

    • Doulas

    • Researchers

  • We support new IAN chapters! Requirements:

    • Core group of 5-10 committed professionals

    • Understanding of IAN's mission and values

    • Plan for local events and activities

    • Agreement to maintain quality standards

    Contact international@ian-attachment.org.uk for guidance on starting a chapter..

  • To cancel:

    • Email membership@ian-attachment.org.uk

    • Or cancel through your member portal

    • Refund policy:

      • Within 30 days: Full refund (if minimal content accessed)

      • After 30 days: No refund, but access continues until period ends