In this episode, Jami and Jamie are joined by therapist Kimberly Glaudy to explore the four major attachment styles and how they influence the way caseworkers serve families. Kimberly breaks down the "dance" between a caseworker's attachment pattern and that of their clients, explaining why up to 80% of people in helping professions may lean toward a dismissive style. The conversation highlights how understanding your own "recipe" for relationship can prevent burnout and help you better interpret the behaviors of "needy" or "avoidant" clients. Kimberly offers a message of "earned security," reminding listeners that they can grow toward health even if they didn't start there.

About the Guest

Kimberly Glaudy is an author, therapist, and mentor with over 25 years of experience in youth and community development. Based in Houston, she leads a therapeutic group practice and is the co-founder of Revive Coaching and Consulting. She is a renowned trainer in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) and has served refugees, survivors of trafficking, and youth in state custody.

In This Episode

• Defining the four major attachment styles: Secure, Dismissive, Preoccupied, and Disorganized.

• How a "dismissive" caregiver style can lead to becoming a "hyper-independent" adult and expert problem solver.

• Understanding "preoccupied" or "needy" client behavior as a strategy to ensure their needs are met.

• The concept of "earned security"—the ability to move toward healthy attachment through intentional work.

• Why self-awareness of your own "dance" is the first step toward helping a client.

• The "Yes and Thank You" practice for dismissive workers learning to receive care.

• Moving beyond meeting goals on a treatment plan to helping a child experience true love and safety.

Resources + Links

Learn more about The Forgotten Initiative