Strengthening Attachment Bonds: Using Emotionally Focused Family Therapy to Reduce Anxiety and Depression in Children and Families 

Friday, October 30, 2026
9:30 a.m. - 12:30  p.m.

Zoom Webinar

Registration Fee: $50

OVERVIEW: Children's anxiety and depression are shaped by a complex interplay of individual experiences, relationships, and environmental influences. Drawing on Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), participants will explore the role of attachment and emotional connection in children's mental health and the potential for family relationships to support healing and resilience. Grounded in attachment science and emotion-focused approaches, the content will examine how patterns of disconnection can develop within families, often leaving both parents and children feeling misunderstood, overwhelmed, or unsure how to reconnect. Emphasis will be placed on creating opportunities for meaningful emotional conversations that foster trust, strengthen relationships, and support children's emotional well-being.  Through practical interventions, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how attachment-focused family therapy can help families move from cycles of distress toward greater emotional safety, connection, and resilience.

OBJECTIVES: After attending this Zoom webinar, the participant will be able to:

• Describe how attachment needs and family interaction patterns can influence the development and maintenance of anxiety and depression within families,
• Identify strategies for helping parents become an emotionally accessible presence for their children experiencing anxiety and depression,
• Apply EFT-based interventions that help children access and express vulnerable emotions and attachment needs to their parents.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
This continuing education Zoom webinar is designed for case managers, social workers, psychologists, therapists, counselors, and health care workers. The community is welcome to attend. 

CONTINUING EDUCATION:                                                              
Mental Health America of the Heartland is a pre-approved provider for social workers through the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory Board (BSRB) Provider Number 17-007. This continuing education provider is approved 3.0 hours for social workers and accepted for psychologists, professional counselors, masters prepared psychologists, marriage and family therapists and addiction counselors.

In order to receive continuing education credit and a certificate of attendance for this Zoom webinar, you will be required to participate in the Zoom webinar. You will receive a Zoom invitation via email within a week of webinar. Also you will need to take an online exam and complete an evaluation that will be sent in a separate email after the live Zoom webinar. You must pass the test by 70%. The Zoom webinar will not be available by recording and viewing at any other time.