Attachment-Focused EMDR
At Vancouver EMDR Therapy, we offer Attachment-Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR), a specialized approach designed to address attachment-related trauma and early relational wounds. Trained by Laurell Parnell, this method builds on traditional EMDR while specifically focusing on how early experiences with caregivers shape adult emotions, relationships, and nervous system patterns.
How Attachment-Focused EMDR is Different
While traditional EMDR helps the brain process and integrate traumatic memories, Attachment-Focused EMDR:
- Targets relational and developmental trauma from childhood
- Focuses on patterns in attachment and bonding that influence adult relationships and emotional regulation
- Uses techniques that support nervous system regulation and self-soothing
- Integrates with Parts Work, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Ego State Therapy to address complex or dissociative experiences
This approach is particularly helpful for clients who:
- Experience complex PTSD
- Have developmental trauma or early childhood attachment wounds
- Struggle with dissociation or fragmented self-states
- Want a more relationally-informed trauma therapy
How This Therapy Works
AF-EMDR still follows the core eight-phase structure of EMDR, but sessions are guided with an attachment-focused lens:
- 1
Assessment of relational patterns: Identifying how early attachment experiences affect current emotional and relational life
- 2
Targeting attachment wounds: Using EMDR processing to gently rework memories that may contribute to emotional dysregulation or self-protective patterns
- 3Integration with parts work: Supporting the various internal parts of the self (via IFS or Ego State therapy) to strengthen internal safety and coherence
- 4
Building healthy attachment resources: Enhancing the ability to self-soothe, regulate emotions, and maintain supportive relationships
Benefits of Attachment-Focused EMDR
- Resolves trauma that is relational in origin
- Supports emotional regulation and self-awareness
- Reduces symptoms of complex PTSD, anxiety, depression, and dissociation
- Strengthens the ability to form healthy relationships
- Complements traditional EMDR for deeper, more lasting healing
Who This Therapy is For
AF-EMDR may be a good fit if you:
- Have experienced childhood trauma or developmental trauma
- Struggle with attachment, intimacy, or emotional regulation
- Experience complex PTSD, dissociation, or chronic relational difficulties
- Want a structured, evidence-based therapy that integrates relational, parts-based, and nervous-system approaches
Attachment-Focused EMDR offers a gentle, structured, and research-informed way to heal relational and developmental trauma. By combining EMDR with parts work and attachment-based techniques, clients often experience improved emotional balance, stronger internal resources, and healthier relationships.