This 1.5-hour continuing education course offers licensed mental health professionals an overview of classic and contemporary attachment theory, with a special focus on the emerging field of attachment to God research. Participants will explore how early attachment experiences shape relational patterns across the lifespan and how these dynamics may extend to spiritual beliefs and behaviors.
Recent empirical studies have highlighted that individuals may relate to God in ways that mirror their human attachment experiences. Understanding these patterns can provide powerful insights for clinicians working with faith-oriented clients, particularly in contexts of trauma, grief, identity development, and recovery.
The course will examine key findings from attachment to God research, discuss how attachment styles may manifest in the therapeutic process, and provide strategies for integrating this framework into assessment and treatment planning for clients seeking Christian faith integrated counseling—while honoring ethical standards, cultural sensitivity, and client autonomy.
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the basic tenets of attachment theory, foundational research, and its relevance to clinical work.
- Differentiate between secure, anxious, avoidant, and fearful attachment styles in relation to people and God
- Assess client attachment styles to people and God at intake and during treatment
- Apply attachment-informed interventions for clients seeking Christian faith integrated therapy.
Lunch will be provided from 11:30-11:45am
Presenter: Jessica Sanderson LMFT., Ph.D
Continuing Education Credit Available: 1.5 NBCC credit hours. NBCC Approval No. SP-5108
If you need special accommodations or have questions, please contact us at initiatives@urbanalliance.com
This course is offered by Urban Alliance – www.urbanalliance.com
