Emotionally Focused Counselling in Caringbah South, NSW
As a Registered Psychologist, I have a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, I am committed to providing a compassionate and supportive environment for all my clients. My approach is grounded in kindness and empathy, recognising that each person’s journey is unique and deserving of respect.
As a Registered Psychologist, I have a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of life, I am committed to providing a compassionate and supportive environment for all my clients. My approach is grounded in kindness and empathy, recognising that each person’s journey is unique and deserving of respect.
I see many clients who feel "stuck" and may need guidance in being able to move forward. I work with clients in exploring what they want to stand for in life, and how to take steps in moving towards their values.
I see many clients who feel "stuck" and may need guidance in being able to move forward. I work with clients in exploring what they want to stand for in life, and how to take steps in moving towards their values.
More Therapists Nearby
Emotionally Focused Therapy
I have developed my extensive knowledge and experience in supporting individuals, couples, families and health professionals to grow into the people they want to be and lead the life they want to lead. My experience has shown me that people make sense of who they are by being in relationship with another whilst feeling psychologically safe.
Emotionally Focused Therapy
I have developed my extensive knowledge and experience in supporting individuals, couples, families and health professionals to grow into the people they want to be and lead the life they want to lead. My experience has shown me that people make sense of who they are by being in relationship with another whilst feeling psychologically safe.
Depending upon your needs, I use a mix of attachment-based, systemic and Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT) in practice.
I support individuals, couples, and families to build deep, lasting, loving relationships. If you struggle with the to-and-fro of attachment insecurity, relationship safety, endless conflict, the hurt of infidelity or lack of emotional or sexual intimacy, there is help. With deep knowledge of relationships, communication, and the latest in neuroscience, I can help you build grounded and practical tools to build attachment security and safety, stop fighting, repair from betrayal or loss of trust, and restore deep intimacy. I can also help you manage overwhelm, anxiety, trauma, neurodiversity in relationships, and life transitions.
Depending upon your needs, I use a mix of attachment-based, systemic and Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT) in practice.
I support individuals, couples, and families to build deep, lasting, loving relationships. If you struggle with the to-and-fro of attachment insecurity, relationship safety, endless conflict, the hurt of infidelity or lack of emotional or sexual intimacy, there is help. With deep knowledge of relationships, communication, and the latest in neuroscience, I can help you build grounded and practical tools to build attachment security and safety, stop fighting, repair from betrayal or loss of trust, and restore deep intimacy. I can also help you manage overwhelm, anxiety, trauma, neurodiversity in relationships, and life transitions.
I have a pay before the session policy in place, which means I require an electronic funds transfer ( EFT) before, or on the day of the session.
I’m a queer non-binary trans person, a fully certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner with SE International and a master's qualified social worker. I have 20+ years' experience providing casework and advocacy within Community Services (Disability, HIV/AIDS, Youth, AOD, Prison Abolition & LGBTIQA+). I'm also a counsellor in a community health organisation supporting LGBTIQA+ communities. I have a deep interest in complex relational & social, collective trauma and use a somatic approach that includes an awareness of the physiological & emotional impacts of oppressive systems on marginalised people.
I have a pay before the session policy in place, which means I require an electronic funds transfer ( EFT) before, or on the day of the session.
I’m a queer non-binary trans person, a fully certified Somatic Experiencing Practitioner with SE International and a master's qualified social worker. I have 20+ years' experience providing casework and advocacy within Community Services (Disability, HIV/AIDS, Youth, AOD, Prison Abolition & LGBTIQA+). I'm also a counsellor in a community health organisation supporting LGBTIQA+ communities. I have a deep interest in complex relational & social, collective trauma and use a somatic approach that includes an awareness of the physiological & emotional impacts of oppressive systems on marginalised people.
Through neuroscience based holistic, trauma informed expressive interventions using a variety of modalities such as Gestalt psychotherapy, Sandplay and Child-centred PlayTherapy, CBT, EFT, and life coaching; allows clients to get in touch with their authentic selves, function with greater wholeness and increased wellbeing, free from past restrictions.
As a clinical psychotherapist/clinical counsellor/clinical supervisor, I keep it real! Practical support for adults, couples, children, families to facilitate healing and growth via raising their awareness of behaviours, feelings and thoughts which may impact their ability to function within the world, and experiment with new ways Clients often are surprised how calm and nurturing our environment is at Lifesort, which assists to support feeling safe to explore challenges such as trauma & abuse, domestic violence, relationship issues, parenting struggles, mental health, identity crisis, life transitions and spiritual emergencies...
Through neuroscience based holistic, trauma informed expressive interventions using a variety of modalities such as Gestalt psychotherapy, Sandplay and Child-centred PlayTherapy, CBT, EFT, and life coaching; allows clients to get in touch with their authentic selves, function with greater wholeness and increased wellbeing, free from past restrictions.
As a clinical psychotherapist/clinical counsellor/clinical supervisor, I keep it real! Practical support for adults, couples, children, families to facilitate healing and growth via raising their awareness of behaviours, feelings and thoughts which may impact their ability to function within the world, and experiment with new ways Clients often are surprised how calm and nurturing our environment is at Lifesort, which assists to support feeling safe to explore challenges such as trauma & abuse, domestic violence, relationship issues, parenting struggles, mental health, identity crisis, life transitions and spiritual emergencies...
Bachelor Degree in Counselling, extensive studies in Gestalt, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focussed Therapy), Family Systems, Trauma Informed, Schema, Inner Child Work, often influenced by spiritual leaders and ancient wisdom.
Recognizing the uniqueness of every client's story and experiences, I view my clients as both teachers and students. Together, we form a collaborative alliance aimed at achieving your desired outcome through a holistic and mindfulness-based approach. My primary objective is to facilitate conscious awareness, assist in breaking unhelpful patterns, support the connection to one's true inner self, and foster a fulfilling life. I find great humility and satisfaction in working with individuals who actively seek wholeness, regardless of their circumstances.
Bachelor Degree in Counselling, extensive studies in Gestalt, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focussed Therapy), Family Systems, Trauma Informed, Schema, Inner Child Work, often influenced by spiritual leaders and ancient wisdom.
Recognizing the uniqueness of every client's story and experiences, I view my clients as both teachers and students. Together, we form a collaborative alliance aimed at achieving your desired outcome through a holistic and mindfulness-based approach. My primary objective is to facilitate conscious awareness, assist in breaking unhelpful patterns, support the connection to one's true inner self, and foster a fulfilling life. I find great humility and satisfaction in working with individuals who actively seek wholeness, regardless of their circumstances.
For couples struggling with their relationship, the therapy method will be Emotionally Focused Therapy (5-20 sessions).
Yumi is a mental health counsellor with a background in Psychology. She is a multilingual and has been working with multicultural clientele with anxiety, low self-esteem, childhood trauma/wound, difficulties maintaining healthy boundaries (due to being Highly Sensitive Person/ People pleaser). Yumi also works with parents to deal with parenting stressors and also guiding them to find their child’s strength by strength based parenting approach. If you don’t know where to start and need guidance, Yumi will walk with you in the process.
For couples struggling with their relationship, the therapy method will be Emotionally Focused Therapy (5-20 sessions).
Yumi is a mental health counsellor with a background in Psychology. She is a multilingual and has been working with multicultural clientele with anxiety, low self-esteem, childhood trauma/wound, difficulties maintaining healthy boundaries (due to being Highly Sensitive Person/ People pleaser). Yumi also works with parents to deal with parenting stressors and also guiding them to find their child’s strength by strength based parenting approach. If you don’t know where to start and need guidance, Yumi will walk with you in the process.
Snow Chen - Sunflower Mental Health and Wellbeing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As an ISST certified advanced schema therapist, I integrate a broad evidence-based modalities, such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, EFT, CBT, etc.
Are anxiety, depression, emotional distress, or relationship struggles holding you back? These issues often stem from complex trauma, shaping unhelpful patterns of self-doubt, people-pleasing, and emptiness that lower self-esteem and leave your needs unmet. Together, we’ll uncover these patterns, address the roots of your struggles, and heal your inner wounds to reclaim self-worth. I specialize in schema therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic and trauma-informed approaches, tailoring plans to your unique needs. If unresolved trauma or past therapies haven’t worked, let’s take the first step toward healing and growth together.
As an ISST certified advanced schema therapist, I integrate a broad evidence-based modalities, such as EMDR, DBT, ACT, EFT, CBT, etc.
Are anxiety, depression, emotional distress, or relationship struggles holding you back? These issues often stem from complex trauma, shaping unhelpful patterns of self-doubt, people-pleasing, and emptiness that lower self-esteem and leave your needs unmet. Together, we’ll uncover these patterns, address the roots of your struggles, and heal your inner wounds to reclaim self-worth. I specialize in schema therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic and trauma-informed approaches, tailoring plans to your unique needs. If unresolved trauma or past therapies haven’t worked, let’s take the first step toward healing and growth together.
I offer a diverse range of therapeutic approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy, and more.
With a passion for understanding the intricacies of the human mind and behavior, I embarked on a journey in the field of psychology to make a positive impact on people's lives. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse clients, ranging from adolescents to adults, and addressing an array of psychological concerns. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. My warm and non-judgmental demeanor creates a safe space where clients feel heard, valued, and respected.
I offer a diverse range of therapeutic approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy, and more.
With a passion for understanding the intricacies of the human mind and behavior, I embarked on a journey in the field of psychology to make a positive impact on people's lives. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse clients, ranging from adolescents to adults, and addressing an array of psychological concerns. My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from evidence-based practices such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. My warm and non-judgmental demeanor creates a safe space where clients feel heard, valued, and respected.
Sarah Beetham Psychotherapist
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mona Vale, NSW 2103
Treatment types which maybe presented CBT Trauma Awareness through a Lens of Childhood Emotional Neglect, Emotionally Focused Therapy & Gottman.
Have you been unable to move beyond entrenched unhealthy relational patterns or addictive behaviours deeply impacting your emotional, psychological & physical well-being? The repetitive nature of these unhealthy thoughts, behaviours & feelings are what leads most clients through my door. My task as your counsellor is to provide an environment that disrupts your current level of functioning or repetitive patterns & move you towards change & renewed progression. I observe your Discrepancies or Mixed Messages & Inner Conflicts within your Narrative, Story & Behaviours, regarding the most personal dimensions of your Life Challenges.
Treatment types which maybe presented CBT Trauma Awareness through a Lens of Childhood Emotional Neglect, Emotionally Focused Therapy & Gottman.
Have you been unable to move beyond entrenched unhealthy relational patterns or addictive behaviours deeply impacting your emotional, psychological & physical well-being? The repetitive nature of these unhealthy thoughts, behaviours & feelings are what leads most clients through my door. My task as your counsellor is to provide an environment that disrupts your current level of functioning or repetitive patterns & move you towards change & renewed progression. I observe your Discrepancies or Mixed Messages & Inner Conflicts within your Narrative, Story & Behaviours, regarding the most personal dimensions of your Life Challenges.
With a trauma and attachment informed lens, I lean on Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), EMDR and other suitable models for your particular needs.
Many of us feel like we are not good enough, overwhelmed by love, or afraid to be truly seen. We may long to connect with our partners but fear rejection, feel intense anger, or find ourselves constantly pleasing others to feel worthy. These struggles can leave us feeling anxious, disconnected, or stuck. But these feelings aren’t who we are — they’re parts of us trying to protect us from pain or danger, shaped by past pain or trauma. These parts of us are trying to keep us safe, even if their methods feel overwhelming. Together, we can gently explore, connect to and understand these parts and carefully process any underlaying pain.
With a trauma and attachment informed lens, I lean on Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), EMDR and other suitable models for your particular needs.
Many of us feel like we are not good enough, overwhelmed by love, or afraid to be truly seen. We may long to connect with our partners but fear rejection, feel intense anger, or find ourselves constantly pleasing others to feel worthy. These struggles can leave us feeling anxious, disconnected, or stuck. But these feelings aren’t who we are — they’re parts of us trying to protect us from pain or danger, shaped by past pain or trauma. These parts of us are trying to keep us safe, even if their methods feel overwhelming. Together, we can gently explore, connect to and understand these parts and carefully process any underlaying pain.
I hold a master’s degree in counselling and am a qualified IFS therapist, complemented by additional training in Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Hello! I’m Crawf, a registered psychotherapist specialising in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. My approach centres around creating a warm and inviting space where you can feel empowered to heal your inner world. I believe that when we truly understand our challenging thoughts and feelings, we can unlock our full potential and authenticity. This process fosters self-awareness and aligns you with your core values, allowing you to transform defensive behaviours that no longer serve you. This work is about cultivating meaning and purpose—a life worth living.
I hold a master’s degree in counselling and am a qualified IFS therapist, complemented by additional training in Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
Hello! I’m Crawf, a registered psychotherapist specialising in Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. My approach centres around creating a warm and inviting space where you can feel empowered to heal your inner world. I believe that when we truly understand our challenging thoughts and feelings, we can unlock our full potential and authenticity. This process fosters self-awareness and aligns you with your core values, allowing you to transform defensive behaviours that no longer serve you. This work is about cultivating meaning and purpose—a life worth living.
Credit/Debit Card, Cash and Direct Deposit/ EFT payment options available.
I help people who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected make sense of their lives. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationships, sex, sexuality, addiction, trust, boundaries, or the courage to express your needs, we’ll explore why. Together, we’ll uncover the hidden beliefs and conditioning holding you back, so you can break free from people-pleasing, heal from past hurt, and gain the clarity and confidence to create a life that feels truly authentic and fulfilling.
Credit/Debit Card, Cash and Direct Deposit/ EFT payment options available.
I help people who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected make sense of their lives. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationships, sex, sexuality, addiction, trust, boundaries, or the courage to express your needs, we’ll explore why. Together, we’ll uncover the hidden beliefs and conditioning holding you back, so you can break free from people-pleasing, heal from past hurt, and gain the clarity and confidence to create a life that feels truly authentic and fulfilling.
Our sessions will be adapted to your needs and preferences, drawing from person-centred therapy, internal family systems therapy, somatic therapy, EFT tapping, polyvagal theory, attachment theory and more.
Take a moment to check in with yourself and your body right now. What emerges? No matter what it is, know that you do not have to explore this alone. As human beings we are naturally self-protecting. Often this means that we attempt to bypass emotional discomfort in an effort to protect ourselves from pain. This avoidance tends to mean our suffering lingers and manifests in ways we have little control over such as; anxiety, depression, destructive relationships, unhealthy ways to cope and physical symptoms. I am here to help you safely feel into yourself, and release the parts that no longer serve you.
Our sessions will be adapted to your needs and preferences, drawing from person-centred therapy, internal family systems therapy, somatic therapy, EFT tapping, polyvagal theory, attachment theory and more.
Take a moment to check in with yourself and your body right now. What emerges? No matter what it is, know that you do not have to explore this alone. As human beings we are naturally self-protecting. Often this means that we attempt to bypass emotional discomfort in an effort to protect ourselves from pain. This avoidance tends to mean our suffering lingers and manifests in ways we have little control over such as; anxiety, depression, destructive relationships, unhealthy ways to cope and physical symptoms. I am here to help you safely feel into yourself, and release the parts that no longer serve you.
As a counsellor using an Emotionally Focused Therapy approach, we will dive into the emotions driving your relationship struggles and create a safe space for both partners to feel heard.
Looking for support with your intimate relationship(s), especially if things aren't going smoothly? As a counsellor specializing in alternative relationship styles (ethical non-monogamy, open relationships, polyamory, and kink dynamics) I can help you navigate the complexities of your relationship(s). As a queer, pansexual, and polyamorous person (she/her) living an ENM lifestyle, I truly understand where you're coming from.
As a counsellor using an Emotionally Focused Therapy approach, we will dive into the emotions driving your relationship struggles and create a safe space for both partners to feel heard.
Looking for support with your intimate relationship(s), especially if things aren't going smoothly? As a counsellor specializing in alternative relationship styles (ethical non-monogamy, open relationships, polyamory, and kink dynamics) I can help you navigate the complexities of your relationship(s). As a queer, pansexual, and polyamorous person (she/her) living an ENM lifestyle, I truly understand where you're coming from.
Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, I’ll help you build practical skills and move forward with confidence.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about where you’re headed? Maybe you’re navigating a big life change, trying to juggle work, relationships, and the endless expectations placed on you, or struggling to manage the weight of burnout or anxiety. Perhaps you’re adjusting to a new ADHD diagnosis and wondering how to make sense of it all. Deep down, you know you want clarity, balance, and to feel more in control. You’re craving a life that feels fulfilling and authentic - but right now, it all feels a bit too much. I’m here to help you make sense of what’s going on and create the tools you need to move forward.
Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, ACT, DBT, and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, I’ll help you build practical skills and move forward with confidence.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure about where you’re headed? Maybe you’re navigating a big life change, trying to juggle work, relationships, and the endless expectations placed on you, or struggling to manage the weight of burnout or anxiety. Perhaps you’re adjusting to a new ADHD diagnosis and wondering how to make sense of it all. Deep down, you know you want clarity, balance, and to feel more in control. You’re craving a life that feels fulfilling and authentic - but right now, it all feels a bit too much. I’m here to help you make sense of what’s going on and create the tools you need to move forward.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), Clinical Hypnotherapy / Psychotherapy & NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotional Freedom Technique ( EFT), Somatic Psychology, Transpersonal Psychology, Positive Psychology, Schema Therapy (ST), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychoeducation (including Window of Tolerance)
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), Clinical Hypnotherapy / Psychotherapy & NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotional Freedom Technique ( EFT), Somatic Psychology, Transpersonal Psychology, Positive Psychology, Schema Therapy (ST), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Psychoeducation (including Window of Tolerance)
Get help by seeing Leigh, who has extensive experience with: Trauma & PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), Depression, Anxiety, Stress, Fears, Phobias & Panic / Social Anxiety, Grief & Loss, Mood Disorders, Coping Skills, Dissociative Disorders (DD), Sexual Abuse & Sexual Assault, Domestic Abuse, Domestic Violence & Coercive Control Weight Loss & Binge Eating Eating Disorders Body Dysmorphia OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) Exercise Motivation & Sports Psychology / Performance Chronic Pain & Somatic Illness Low Self Esteem & Confidence Issues IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) & Digestive Issues Workplace Bullying & Assertiveness
Jennifer Perkins Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
Jennifer's modalities include Psychodynamic (working with your past), IFS/Internal Family Systems Informed , Systemic & Relationship Focused (understanding your family), Compassion Focused, Mindfulness, Narrative (understanding your story and why you hold it), EMDR, Flash, and EFT (tapping).
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate some barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships, anxiety, stress & challenging work situations. If you are looking for strength + compassion, understanding + the blunt truth, empathy + solutions, you have found the right space. With a belief and passion that you are your best resource, she helps you find that inner strength & wisdom you thought was missing.
Jennifer's modalities include Psychodynamic (working with your past), IFS/Internal Family Systems Informed , Systemic & Relationship Focused (understanding your family), Compassion Focused, Mindfulness, Narrative (understanding your story and why you hold it), EMDR, Flash, and EFT (tapping).
Life is meant to be lived with joy. Let's help eliminate some barriers. Jennifer is an extremely well qualified therapist who works with you to help solve problems. She is trauma informed with a specialty in relationships. This means she is excellent at helping you work through a difficult family history, messy relationships, anxiety, stress & challenging work situations. If you are looking for strength + compassion, understanding + the blunt truth, empathy + solutions, you have found the right space. With a belief and passion that you are your best resource, she helps you find that inner strength & wisdom you thought was missing.
I'm also an ADHD Certified Specialist and a PORT Relationship Counsellor, integrating Gottman, EFT, and Imago methods to support healthy, connected relati
ADHD Coaching and Counselling.
Navigating ADHD – for yourself or your relationship? I’m here to help.
Personalised strategies for managing focus, organisation, and motivation; Support for couples where one or both partners have ADHD – improve communication, connection, and understanding; Strengths-based approach to building resilience and achieving personal and relationship goals; Coaching for individuals, couples, and teams.
Let’s work together to thrive with ADHD, both individually and as a couple.
I'm also an ADHD Certified Specialist and a PORT Relationship Counsellor, integrating Gottman, EFT, and Imago methods to support healthy, connected relati
ADHD Coaching and Counselling.
Navigating ADHD – for yourself or your relationship? I’m here to help.
Personalised strategies for managing focus, organisation, and motivation; Support for couples where one or both partners have ADHD – improve communication, connection, and understanding; Strengths-based approach to building resilience and achieving personal and relationship goals; Coaching for individuals, couples, and teams.
Let’s work together to thrive with ADHD, both individually and as a couple.
Nearby Emotionally Focused Counsellors Searches for Caringbah South
- Bexley
- Caringbah
- Cronulla
- Hurstville
- Jannali
- Kingsgrove
- Kogarah
- Miranda
- Sans Souci
- Sutherland
- Sylvania
- Wolli Creek
Emotionally Focused Counsellors
Who is emotionally focused therapy for?
Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is for couples who are emotionally distressed, stuck in an unsatisfying relationship pattern or feeling deeply alienated. They may even believe the relationship is beyond repair. Very often, the partners display intense anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal in the relationship. In addition, EFT is helpful to couples and individuals who have difficulty expressing emotions and those who have trouble regulating emotions.
Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?
People need emotionally focused therapy because the need for others is built into the brain, but the pressures of daily life can erode feelings of love, and couples often do not have the skills to find their way back to the comfort of each other. Instead, they may be stuck in repetitive patterns of anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal. Emotionally focused therapy regards such strong negative feelings as expressions of protest over the loss of connection and turns them into pathways of reconnection.
What happens in emotionally focused therapy?
Over the course of eight to 20 weekly sessions, couples de-escalate their negative emotional reactivity to one another so that they can listen to each other and be responsive to each other’s needs. Then the deep emotional and physical bond is restored, giving partners a sense of comfort and security, which they can use to solve whatever problems come their way. The therapist plays an active role, helping partners understand how anger and withdrawal are actually misguided cries for connection.
What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?
EFT is designed to help couples stuck in dysfunctional relationship patterns regain closeness and rebuild their relationship. Typically, such couples experience considerable distress, with partners feeling alienated and distrustful of one another, not certain their relationship can survive. EFT is also helpful to individuals experiencing attachment-related fears of loss; it helps them learn to use their fears as a way of eliciting the closeness they desire.