Therapeutic Professionals
‘Attachment is primary, not a derivative of orality.’ (Bowlby, 1988b)
Why Attachment Theory?
Bowlby positions attachment as a fundamental pillar of human development, not simply a by product of other psychological needs. This perspective transforms how we view relationships and underscores the vital importance of secure connections for psychological well-being. It calls attention to the need for prioritising warm, attuned relationships as a cornerstone of mental health.
We Support
IAN UK is open to psychologists, psychotherapists, psychoanalysts, counsellors, psychiatrists, paediatricians, teachers, neuroscientists, social workers, doulas and researchers, who reside anywhere in the world, and for whom the Attachment Theory forms a significant part of their work.
Among psychotherapists we have members who practice psychoanalytic therapy, group-analysis, psychodrama, systemic family therapy, multifamily (or interfamily therapy), Internal family Therapy, sandplay therapy, play therapy, art therapy and trauma sensitive yoga.
People who do not have a title may be eligible for professional membership if they are approved by a majority vote of the executive committee or Board of Directors.
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Learn how personality develops (and one’s attachment style) securely or insecurely, from the quality of the parental caregiving relationship
Identify avoidant and preoccupied attachment styles from 3 interlinking perspectives and hypothesise about individuals’ inner worlds corresponding to each style i.e their beliefs about and expectations of self, others and relationships
Explore the essential characteristics of each of the basic human needs (motivational systems) of careseeking, caregiving, self defence (fear) and interest sharing. Learn to identify when these systems are underdeveloped or used defensively enabling clearer assessments and more targeted therapeutic interventions
Identify various, fearful, ways in which clients come to therapy (seek care) and recognise, and prepare to meet these differing presentations
Expand understanding of clients’ resistance to change and associated self-defeating patterns of behaviour
Explore the process of change with emphasis on the implicit, non-verbal aspects of the therapeutic relationship
Learn various ways to access clients’ attachment histories and identify events which significantly shape family systems and the individual’s place within the system
Explore the impact of one’s own attachment style on the therapeutic relationship
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presentation, video clips of relevant research, large and small group discussions using a case study and skills practices. Some pre course preparation will be given along with handouts and a list of additional resources or in small groups.
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Because attachment theory applies to adults in intimate relationships just as much as to children, it gives therapists insight into the origins of clients' personalities, enabling more attuned interventions. The training is designed to enhance therapists' capacity for empathy and strengthen the quality of the therapeutic alliance.
Better case conceptualisation: understanding why clients relate the way they do, not just the presenting symptoms
Stronger therapeutic relationships: the alliance is one of the biggest predictors of therapy outcomes, and attachment theory directly informs how to build it
Applicability across client groups:adults, couples, families, children , attachment underpins all of it
CPD value: it counts toward a formal qualification
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This module is the first step toward the Advanced Certificate in the Clinical Application of Attachment Theory, endorsed by the International Attachment Network. So it's not just a standalone workshop it's a building block toward a recognised credential.
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“Clarifying misunderstandings about insecure attachment style - eg: All insecure attachments are anxious. Care seeking/care giving systems and when they are disrupted. So so much. It has already helped my practice both in school and with adults. I absolutely loved it.”
“If you want to know how to apply what you learn directly into your client sessions, without thinking ‘what next?’, then this is the course to take. I now feel confident to apply what I learnt and not just left with a note pad full of notes. Nicola takes the days at just the right pace that is easy to understand and digest.”
“It was excellent. I have done lots of cpd over my many years . It really is a good standard ”
“This is a truly in depth look at attachment and the impact on the client and their relationships. Set at a pace that allows for exploration and understanding to develop, I feel more confident now in my application of attachment theory with my clients.”
“Nicola delivers an engaging course with robust material. For anyone with an interest in Attachment Theory it is a must. I was interested during my training years ago and was really pleased to come across this course.”
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You can download the brochure here.
Whether you're encountering attachment theory for the first time or returning to it with years of practice behind you, this course offers a valuable opportunity to consolidate and deepen your clinical understanding. With the opportunity for meeting and connecting in person with like-minded therapists, counsellors and therapeutic practitioners.
Duration: 2 days
Days: 5th & 6th September 2026
Times: 9:45am-5:30pm
Venue: AGIP, Fairbridge Road, Archway, London
Earlybird: £235 ends on the 31st July 2026
Module 1. Introduction to Attachment Informed Therapy and its Clinical Application
John Bowlby found that our first and most fundamental need is to connect to our parents (primary caregivers) and that this need, also known as the attachment or careseeking system, exists from cradle to grave. The corollary of this is that attachment theory is as applicable to adults generally and particularly in intimate relationships, as it is to children and it is this link which gives the insights into the origins of clients’ personalities enabling more attuned interventions. Overall, this will enhance therapists’ capacity for empathy and the quality of the therapeutic alliance.
Supervision
Nicola Diamond leads us in this monthly supervision group. There are only 8 spaces available. registered psychotherapists, psychologists or counsellors. You can book in blocks of 4 with 2 participants presenting a case in each session. Members discounts apply. £40.00 every week for 4 weeks
First Block Dates:
Monday: 23rd March, 20th April, 18th May, 22nd June
Time: 7:30pm-9:00pm
You can book 1 hour individual supervision to support the application of attachment theory with clients. This will be with one of our attachment experts who make up our directors and executive committee.
You can choose your preferred supervisor when booking. They will be in touch via email to arrange a suitable time to meet online. Members discounts apply.
Room Hire for Therapists
Consulting and meeting rooms are available to rent in this spacious North London centre, conveniently located near Archway tube on the Northern Line, Upper Holloway rail station, and several bus routes. The centre features ten consulting rooms across three floors, specifically designed for counsellors and psychotherapists, along with a seminar room and a smaller group room. The house, used and managed by AGIP, is owned by The Lady Balogh’s Psychotherapy Trust (LBPT).