Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 28, 2026

Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Hyperscanning Study in Psychological Counseling
Published on: January 17, 2025
The influence of individual attachment styles on group members' experience of therapist transitions
Erin S Hammond1, Cheri L Marmarosh
1Texas Woman’sUniversity Counseling Center in Denton, Texas, USA. ehammond@gwu.edu
Abstract:
Attachment theory has recently been applied to clinical practice in an effort to improve understanding and treatment of the maladaptive relational patterns clients bring to therapy. While most of this research has focused on individual therapy, interest in the application of attachment theory to group psychotherapy is growing. This paper will explore the impact of clients' attachment styles on their experiences of co-therapist transition in an ongoing psychodynamic therapy group. This discussion will elucidate how knowledge of attachment theory and an understanding of clients' individual attachment styles can be useful in predicting responses to therapist-initiated terminations and transitions.
Related Concept Videos
Attachment Styles
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Hazan and Shaver's Attachment Styles
Elements Crucial for Effective Psychotherapy
The Therapeutic Alliance
The therapeutic alliance refers to the relationship between the therapist and the client. The alliance strengthens when the therapist and the client engage in a nurturing, supportive, trusting, empathetic, and respectful relationship, improving therapeutic outcomes. Therapists must monitor this relationship...
Group Therapy
Attachment
