NASW-NY: From Theory to Practice: Understanding Attachment Types and Trauma-Informed Approaches — 3CEU

Founded in 1955, the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world. NASW works to enhance the professional growth and development of its members, to create and maintain professional standards, and to advance sound social policies.

This training offers an overview of Attachment Theory and its application in clinical practice with a focus on trauma-informed care. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of various attachment styles and how these patterns may present in therapeutic settings, particularly in the context of trauma and early relational wounds.

The course emphasizes the impact of early attachment experiences on emotional well-being, relationship dynamics, and patterns of coping across the lifespan. Through a blend of theoretical concepts, clinical case examples, and practical strategies, participants will strengthen their skills in supporting clients toward earned secure attachment and fostering relational healing.

Additionally, the training will explore the concept of complex transference, including the presence of contradictory and multiple transferences that often emerge in trauma treatment. Attention will be given to how these dynamics inform the therapeutic relationship and how clinicians can navigate these responses with attunement, curiosity, and trauma-informed approaches.

By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with actionable tools to enhance clinical effectiveness, deepen insight into attachment-based challenges, and facilitate meaningful progress for clients impacted by trauma.

Following this course, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the foundational principles of Attachment Theory and its relevance in clinical practice.
2. Recognize clinical presentations of secure and insecure attachment in therapeutic settings.
3. Assess client behaviors and relational patterns through the lens of attachment theory and integrate this knowledge into trauma-informed treatment planning.
4. Develop strategies for self-reflection and self-care to enhance the therapists’ own resilience in working with attachment and trauma-related issues.