Co-created by Dr. Nicole Letourneau and Dr. Martha Hart in 2014, the ATTACH™ Parenting Program is our flagship program, with many of our other programs adapted from it.
In this 10 week program, Ceritified ATTACH™ Parenting Program facilitators work with parents and caregivers to strengthen their Reflective Function skills. By doing so, parents can strengthen their attachment with their child and buffer the negative effects of toxic stress.
In weekly 1-hour sessions, facilitators guide parents through Reflective Function exercises using:
- Pre-recorded video of a parent-child interaction feedback
- Hypothetical situations of relatable parenting scenarios
- Real-life situations, reflecting on a stressful event the parent has experienced
In two sessions, parents invite a co-parent (family member, friend, partner, etc.) to join in the session to further strengthen their Reflective Function skills by inviting another perspective when brainstorming thoughts and feelings.
By encouraging curiosity, reflection, and keeping their child's mind in mind, parents become better equipped to respond to their children's needs with calmness, even under stress. Research shows that ATTACH™ Parenting Program strengthens parents' reflective functioning and parenting capabilities, leading to improved parenting quality, healthier child development, and better mental health outcomes for children. Ultimately, the program aims to promote secure parent-child attachment, strengthen families, reduce risk, and help the next generation thrive.
If you are a parent or caregiver interested in taking the ATTACH™ Parenting Program, please contact one of our partner agencies listed below.
