Attachment Psychodynamic Consultation

This group examines how attachment patterns shape the therapeutic encounter, emerge in the transference and countertransference, and influence the working alliance.

The theoretical framework of this group is attachment-based and psychodynamic. A recommended bibliography supports the clinical work and offers theoretical frameworks related to attachment, internal working models, the therapeutic relationship, transference and countertransference, and the clinician’s use of self.

This group offers a sustained space to examine the therapist’s experience. Its approach follows from attachment theory. The capacity to explore difficult clinical material, including uncertainty, mistakes, and uncomfortable countertransference, depends in part on the presence of a secure base. Over time, the group itself becomes one.

Meeting with the same clinicians over time allows the group to develop its own relational history. Attachment is therefore not only discussed as theory or applied to a case. We also attend to how it emerges within the consultation group itself and consider what this may help us understand about the clinical work.

Each case is considered through three formulations:

Recommended readings are selected to support the clinical work. The final session attends to the group’s own ending as part of the clinical material.

90-minute sessions, in person in Chicago. Eight sessions across six months. Limited to six participants. Application required.

Fees are set by career stage.

Next cohort: Fall 2026 · applications open