“Attachment Issues in Adulthood” Workshop | Dr. Gwen Adshead
The workshop “Attachment Issues in Adulthood,” held on 23rd November, continued the series on attachment. It followed the first workshop, “Attachment in the 21st Century,” previously hosted by Willingness. Willingness organised both events to deepen understanding and practical application of attachment theory.
Speaker – Dr. Gwen Adshead
The speaker was Dr. Gwen Adshead, a distinguished forensic psychiatrist and psychotherapist renowned for her groundbreaking work in the field of forensic psychiatry. Dr. Adshead has held pivotal roles in institutions like Broadmoor Hospital. She delves into areas such as attachment, trauma, and personality disorders in her exploration of criminal behaviour.
Exploration of Childhood Attachment and its lasting influence
During the 3-hour workshop, Dr. Gwen Adshead explored the theme of childhood attachment and its lasting influence on adult life. Dr. Adshead further expanded on how attachment insecurity can shape relationships in various aspects of adulthood, such as caregiving, intimate partnerships, parenting, friendships, and the care of elderly parents, amongst others.
Signs of Attachment Issues in Therapeutic Relationships
As we examined attachment’s impact, focus shifted to dynamics between clients and therapists. Moreover, discussions highlighted how attachment security shapes therapeutic interactions. Likewise, the workshop revealed layers of understanding about each client’s unique healing journey. Furthermore, Dr Gwen Adshead explained best practices for maintaining therapeutic relationship boundaries effectively. Similarly, she outlined potential pitfalls when professionals neglect these essential boundaries during therapy sessions.
Signs of Attachment Issues in Building Therapeutic Trust
Consequently, participants learned how building trust begins with a thorough history intake. Therefore, establishing a secure base became central to supporting long-term therapeutic progress. Also, the importance of empathy in client interactions was strongly emphasised throughout. Next, attendees explored strategies to adapt communication styles for different attachment patterns. Finally, the workshop encouraged reflective practice to strengthen professional-client relationships.
Exploring Real-Life Attachment Case Studies
Throughout the workshop, Dr Gwen Adshead examined diverse case studies, focusing on individuals’ language and metaphors when sharing experiences. Cases explored bereavement of an attachment figure, leading to thoughts of both homicide and suicide under extreme emotional distress. Additionally, discussions included transitions into parenthood and the complex attachment shifts such changes can trigger. Moreover, scenarios involved bereavement during pregnancy and its profound psychological and relational consequences for those affected. Finally, migrants escaping war shared experiences that revealed deep trauma and attachment disruptions in the face of displacement.
Discussion with Dr. Gwen Adshead on Signs of Attachment Issues
The final part of the workshop featured a 45-minute discussion with Dr Gwen Adshead and engaged participants. Participants asked insightful questions, allowing the renowned speaker to share expertise on diverse attachment-related scenarios and applications. This interactive exchange explored couples’ attachment therapy, EMDR, and attachment’s role in elder care contexts. Questions also addressed strategies for individuals with insecure or avoidant attachment when experiencing psychosomatic health conditions.
Final Thoughts on Signs of Attachment Issues
Ultimately, the workshop provided valuable insights into recognising and addressing attachment issues in various adult contexts. Participants gained practical strategies to apply both personally and professionally when navigating complex relational dynamics and emotional challenges. Moreover, Dr Gwen Adshead’s expertise offered evidence-based guidance that resonated strongly with attendees from diverse backgrounds and professions. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of how attachment styles influence behaviour, relationships, and emotional wellbeing throughout life. Overall, the session fostered learning, reflection, and empowerment, encouraging continued growth and exploration beyond the workshop’s engaging environment.
