Trauma-Focused Psychotherapy
Therapeutic approaches such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) help improve emotional regulation, coping skills, and the ability to form secure connections.
Children and adults who struggle with early trauma, neglect, or disrupted caregiving may develop patterns of emotional withdrawal that impact how they relate to others. At Lumos Psychiatric Services, our trauma-informed team provides compassionate, evidence-based care for Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), helping patients and families in San Jose and Los Gatos build healthier connections, improve emotional regulation, and develop trust in relationships.
If you or your child is experiencing symptoms that suggest RAD, we’re here to help.
Schedule a consultation today and begin the path toward healing
“Light finds a way back.”
What Is Reactive Attachment Disorder?
Reactive Attachment Disorder is a trauma-related condition that begins in early childhood and occurs when a child does not form safe or stable emotional bonds with primary caregivers. These early disruptions, such as neglect, inconsistent caregiving, frequent changes in caregivers, or prolonged institutional care, can interfere with the development of secure attachment and healthy emotional functioning.
While RAD is most commonly diagnosed in childhood, its effects can extend into adolescence and adulthood when untreated.
Signs & Symptoms of Reactive Attachment Disorder
RAD affects each individual differently, but common symptoms include:
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Long-Term Complications of Untreated Reactive Attachment Disorder
Left untreated, RAD can lead to the following complications:
- Ongoing difficulties forming relationships
- Challenges with emotional regulation
- Increased risk of anxiety, depression, or other trauma-related conditions
Recognizing these signs early allows for more effective treatment and long-term stabilization.
How We Diagnose Reactive Attachment Disorder
At Lumos Psychiatric Services, diagnosis begins with a detailed, trauma-informed evaluation that may include:
✓Clinical interviews with the patient and family
✓Developmental and behavioral assessments
✓Review of early childhood history
✓Collaboration with therapists, schools, or pediatricians (when applicable)
Our approach ensures that similar conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, PTSD, anxiety disorders, or oppositional behaviors, are accurately differentiated.
Reactive Attachment Disorder Treatment Options in San Jose
RAD requires a thoughtful, integrative treatment plan that supports emotional, social, and developmental healing. Treatment may include:
Parent-Child or Family Therapy
For children, strengthening the caregiver-child relationship is essential. Family therapy focuses on communication, attachment-building behaviors, and healthy bonding patterns.
Psychiatric Medication (When Appropriate)
While medication does not treat RAD directly, it can help manage associated symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, depression, or sleep disturbances, especially in older adolescents and adults.
Social & Emotional Skills Training
Improving communication, emotional expression, and relational skills can help patients connect more easily with others and feel more secure.
Lifestyle & Environmental Support
Stable routines, predictable caregiving structures, and supportive home environments are essential for long-term progress.
At Lumos Psychiatric Services in San Jose, we tailor each treatment plan to the patient’s age, symptom profile, developmental stage, and family dynamics.
Can Reactive Attachment Disorder Continue Into Adulthood?
Yes. While RAD is diagnosed in early childhood, untreated symptoms often evolve into long-standing relational challenges in adulthood, such as:
0 of 5 sound like youTick what fits, a starting point for the conversation, not a diagnosis.Ask us if this is right for you
Adults with early attachment trauma can still heal. With the right therapeutic support, many individuals experience significant improvements in emotional stability, relationship satisfaction, and overall functioning.
How Lumos Psychiatric Services Can Help in San Jose and Los Gatos
Our clinic serving San Jose and Los Gatos provides trauma-informed psychiatric care rooted in compassion, respect, and evidence-based treatment. Whether you’re seeking support for a child, teen, or adult affected by early attachment trauma, we offer:
✓Personalized evaluations
✓Integrated therapy and medication management
✓Telepsychiatry appointments for flexibility
✓A supportive and non-judgmental environment
Healing from attachment trauma is possible. Together, we help patients build safer relationships, stronger emotional skills, and a more grounded sense of self.
Reach out to Lumos Psychiatric Services if you notice:
✓Persistent difficulty forming relationships
✓Emotional withdrawal from caregivers or peers
✓Overwhelming fear, distrust, or avoidance behaviors
✓Irritability or sadness without clear triggers
✓Signs of trauma or disrupted attachments
✓Early intervention can make a profound difference.
Begin Healing Today
If you or your child may be experiencing symptoms of Reactive Attachment Disorder, Lumos Psychiatric Services is here to help.
Book an appointment today and take the first step toward secure attachment, emotional resilience, and a healthier future.
Serving patients in San Jose and Los Gatos, CA, with both in-person and telepsychiatry appointments.
Looking for help with Reactive Attachment Disorder in San Jose or Los Gatos?
Sarbani Maitra, MD and her team at Lumos Psychiatric Services help adults and children struggling with Reactive Attachment Disorder to reclaim their lives and get more done. To schedule your RAD consultation, fill out the form below.
