AEDP, developed by Dr. Diana Fosha, works by integrating attachment and developmental theory (our early experiences of security and connection with others), affective neuroscience (how our brain processes emotions), and body-focused approaches (emotions that we experience and feel in our body) to create the opportunity for a healing experience felt in both our mind and body that goes beyond insight and intellectual understanding that takes place only in our head. The goal of AEDP is to experience and process difficult emotions within a therapeutic and very human relationship and an environment of trust and safety. In doing so, tender, core emotions are open to transformation and once again be used as they were intended- as an asset to regulating our experiences, providing security, resilience, and giving direction and meaning to our lives. By fostering these connections within the relationship, the opportunity for true felt happiness arises. Equally important, the process of AEDP work yields growth and change in a time-effective manner by putting the tools of the relationship into the hands of clients as soon as is possible. Clients feel they have something to take home with them to keep the process alive outside of the therapy session.
