Travelling the circle together, solo: An individual protocol for the Circle of Security intensive intervention.

Abstract

Circle of Security (COS) is an approach to help parents better understand the attachment needs of their children. The COS model, which began as an intensive, individualized intervention delivered in the context of a group, has been implemented in a variety of formats, including a DVD-based format (Circle of Security Parenting [COS-P]). This article presents a return to the original intensive intervention, adapted to be delivered in an individual therapy context and incorporating clips from COS-P. This approach emphasizes the importance of retaining video review within this intervention, showing the client directly interacting with his or her own child. The application of this hybrid format is demonstrated through the case of a mother and 5-year-old child presenting with difficulty negotiating separations.