Emotionally Focused Counselling in Victoria

Photo of Ruth Katerelos, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Ruth Katerelos
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Preston, VIC 3072
In over 20 years as a therapist, I have worked with a wide range of clients and couples with many and varied issues. I work in a way that is strongly client, and emotionally focused. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, substance issues, food disorders, grief, child-hood trauma, uncertainty around sexuality and gender, around identity and self confidence/esteem. I work well with clients who are looking to change their lives and who are open to exploring their issues; to challenge their thinking and to examine what isn't working for them and to take practical steps to shift beyond where they are now.
In over 20 years as a therapist, I have worked with a wide range of clients and couples with many and varied issues. I work in a way that is strongly client, and emotionally focused. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, substance issues, food disorders, grief, child-hood trauma, uncertainty around sexuality and gender, around identity and self confidence/esteem. I work well with clients who are looking to change their lives and who are open to exploring their issues; to challenge their thinking and to examine what isn't working for them and to take practical steps to shift beyond where they are now.
(02) 4504 0223 View (02) 4504 0223
Photo of undefined - Accolade Psychotherapy Services, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Accolade Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Highett, VIC 3190
Shraevani has over 25 years’ experience in clinical mental health as a clinician and as a leader. She has worked in public health and as a private practitioner. She has a practical and compassionate approach to therapy. Shraevani is trained in a number of evidence based therapeutic modalities including, but not limited to, CBT – cognitive behaviour therapy, EMDR – eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy, MBCT – Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, SFT – Solution Focused Therapy, Brief Therapy, EFT and Systems. She provides therapy for relationship problems/difficulties, anxiety, depression and other life stresses.
Shraevani has over 25 years’ experience in clinical mental health as a clinician and as a leader. She has worked in public health and as a private practitioner. She has a practical and compassionate approach to therapy. Shraevani is trained in a number of evidence based therapeutic modalities including, but not limited to, CBT – cognitive behaviour therapy, EMDR – eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy, MBCT – Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, SFT – Solution Focused Therapy, Brief Therapy, EFT and Systems. She provides therapy for relationship problems/difficulties, anxiety, depression and other life stresses.
(03) 7020 2725 View (03) 7020 2725
Photo of Jamie Lopes, MPsych, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Jamie Lopes
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am an emotion-based therapist, passionate in helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of life's challenges. I bring over a decade of experience working with a diverse range of clients across various ages and backgrounds. I am trained and skilled in integrating various evidence-based approaches, including Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), to tailor treatment to your unique needs. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or navigating existential concerns, I can walk alongside you on your journey towards healing and growth.
I am an emotion-based therapist, passionate in helping individuals and couples navigate the complexities of life's challenges. I bring over a decade of experience working with a diverse range of clients across various ages and backgrounds. I am trained and skilled in integrating various evidence-based approaches, including Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), to tailor treatment to your unique needs. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or navigating existential concerns, I can walk alongside you on your journey towards healing and growth.
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Photo of Safaa Hakim, PACFA, Counsellor
Safaa Hakim
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Docklands, VIC 3008
I enjoy working with Person Centred, Solution Focused, Emotionally Focused, and Body work approaches like Mindfulness, Meditation and Gestalt therapy.
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
I enjoy working with Person Centred, Solution Focused, Emotionally Focused, and Body work approaches like Mindfulness, Meditation and Gestalt therapy.
I am compassionate about guiding my clients to explore their difficulties and strengthen their emotional wellbeing. I provide specific counselling in the areas of anxiety, stress, depression, and relationships; as well as behavioural and other cognitive issues, offering a wide range of counselling support to meet the needs of clients and an organisation’s employees.
(03) 9034 5950 View (03) 9034 5950
Photo of Kat Maguire, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Kat Maguire
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thornbury, VIC 3071
Influenced by Psychodynamic, IFS, Narrative, Gestalt, and EFT, Kat tailors her methods to each client's unique needs.
Kat (she/her) is a clinically registered psychotherapist specialising in trauma-informed individual therapy for adults and older teens. Approaching her clients with a focus on understanding rather than labelling or diagnosing, Kat believes in delving into each individual's unique story with a nonjudgmental curiosity. With a distinctive mix of humour and warmth, she establishes a secure environment for clients to explore their inner and outer worlds with vulnerability.
Influenced by Psychodynamic, IFS, Narrative, Gestalt, and EFT, Kat tailors her methods to each client's unique needs.
Kat (she/her) is a clinically registered psychotherapist specialising in trauma-informed individual therapy for adults and older teens. Approaching her clients with a focus on understanding rather than labelling or diagnosing, Kat believes in delving into each individual's unique story with a nonjudgmental curiosity. With a distinctive mix of humour and warmth, she establishes a secure environment for clients to explore their inner and outer worlds with vulnerability.
(03) 7003 2952 View (03) 7003 2952
Photo of Irene Ferri, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Irene Ferri
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Rosebud, VIC 3939
When working with couples I use a combination of EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and the Gottman Method.
I am a humanistic and relational counsellor. My focus is to meet the needs of each unique client. I form strong collaborative bonds with clients and understand the influence their past experiences and relationships have on their current lives. I'm successful in resolving issues through positive reinforcement and constructive counselling. Some of the issues I work with: relationship issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relocation, impact of abuse and trauma, grief and bereavement.
When working with couples I use a combination of EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and the Gottman Method.
I am a humanistic and relational counsellor. My focus is to meet the needs of each unique client. I form strong collaborative bonds with clients and understand the influence their past experiences and relationships have on their current lives. I'm successful in resolving issues through positive reinforcement and constructive counselling. Some of the issues I work with: relationship issues, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relocation, impact of abuse and trauma, grief and bereavement.
(03) 5905 9759 View (03) 5905 9759
Photo of Wa Chi Choi, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Wa Chi Choi
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3004
I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including EFT, ACT, EMDR, and CBT, to help my clients achieve mental wellness.
Since 2010, in my capacity as Clinical Psychologist and Social Worker, I provide support to clients and the community on issues related to childhood trauma, attachment problems, behavioral addiction, and crisis intervention.
I utilize various therapeutic approaches, including EFT, ACT, EMDR, and CBT, to help my clients achieve mental wellness.
Since 2010, in my capacity as Clinical Psychologist and Social Worker, I provide support to clients and the community on issues related to childhood trauma, attachment problems, behavioral addiction, and crisis intervention.
(03) 9111 5321 View (03) 9111 5321
Photo of undefined - South Yarra Psychology, FAPS, Psychologist
South Yarra Psychology
Psychologist, FAPS
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
Treatment approaches include schema therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, mindfulness-based therapy, DBT, motivational interviewing, EMDR, positive psychology, emotion-focused therapy (EFT), and ACT.
South Yarra Psychology sees clients with a wide range of presenting issues. The practice has a team of highly-qualified psychologists. The practice offers a free 10-minute 'psychologist matching appointment' for new clients (via telephone); to discuss their treatment needs and recommend a psychologist who is best suited to these. Appointments (including the free psychologist matching appointment) can be booked through the practice's online booking system (accessible via www.SYP.au). The website also contains profiles on each of the psychologists, with their specific interests and treatment approaches.
Treatment approaches include schema therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT, mindfulness-based therapy, DBT, motivational interviewing, EMDR, positive psychology, emotion-focused therapy (EFT), and ACT.
South Yarra Psychology sees clients with a wide range of presenting issues. The practice has a team of highly-qualified psychologists. The practice offers a free 10-minute 'psychologist matching appointment' for new clients (via telephone); to discuss their treatment needs and recommend a psychologist who is best suited to these. Appointments (including the free psychologist matching appointment) can be booked through the practice's online booking system (accessible via www.SYP.au). The website also contains profiles on each of the psychologists, with their specific interests and treatment approaches.
(03) 9070 5676 View (03) 9070 5676
Photo of Paul Vanderputt, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Paul Vanderputt
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentleigh, VIC 3204
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches including EMDR, CBT, ACT, EFT, and Schema Therapy and will happily discuss which approach may be a good fit before starting.
Hi I'm Paul, I'm a registered Psychologist and the Director of Adaptive Counselling and Psychology in Bentleigh. I believe that good therapy means having a good therapeutic relationship, and I take the time to build this before getting stuck into treatment. I see anyone aged 15+ and have a particular focus on working with depression, anxiety (general and social), stress, and trauma.
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches including EMDR, CBT, ACT, EFT, and Schema Therapy and will happily discuss which approach may be a good fit before starting.
Hi I'm Paul, I'm a registered Psychologist and the Director of Adaptive Counselling and Psychology in Bentleigh. I believe that good therapy means having a good therapeutic relationship, and I take the time to build this before getting stuck into treatment. I see anyone aged 15+ and have a particular focus on working with depression, anxiety (general and social), stress, and trauma.
(03) 7003 2513 View (03) 7003 2513
Photo of Laura Kemppainen, MA, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Laura Kemppainen
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
I work with talking/play therapy, Schema Therapy, EFT, IPT, and CBT-E/FBT.
I am a psychologist and supervisor with a warm, collaborative approach and experience working with a range of concerns. I have special interests in working with anxiety & depression, eating disorders & body-image, trauma and family issues, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ clients, as well as working with women on alcohol use. I work with each person individually to identify meaningful and relevant goals and have a holistic and trauma-informed approach. With children & adolescents I work from a developmental framework incorporating play and collaboration with work with parents. I also provide supervision for other therapists.
I work with talking/play therapy, Schema Therapy, EFT, IPT, and CBT-E/FBT.
I am a psychologist and supervisor with a warm, collaborative approach and experience working with a range of concerns. I have special interests in working with anxiety & depression, eating disorders & body-image, trauma and family issues, self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ clients, as well as working with women on alcohol use. I work with each person individually to identify meaningful and relevant goals and have a holistic and trauma-informed approach. With children & adolescents I work from a developmental framework incorporating play and collaboration with work with parents. I also provide supervision for other therapists.
(03) 9020 4507 View (03) 9020 4507
Photo of Barbara Zoroddu, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Barbara Zoroddu
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
I also specialise in EFT - Tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) an evidence-based stress reduction approach for the treatment of trauma, emotional dysregulation, physical pain.
I strongly believe that psychological support should be a possibility for everyone, not just a luxury for the few. I am a trained Counselling professional with a passion for helping women like you fall in love with their minds and bodies, live their true emotions and find new ways to improve their well-being. I can support you while you learn more about your emotions and bodily resources, discover how to increase your self-esteem and become more resilient by overcoming your limiting beliefs about your beautiful self.
I also specialise in EFT - Tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) an evidence-based stress reduction approach for the treatment of trauma, emotional dysregulation, physical pain.
I strongly believe that psychological support should be a possibility for everyone, not just a luxury for the few. I am a trained Counselling professional with a passion for helping women like you fall in love with their minds and bodies, live their true emotions and find new ways to improve their well-being. I can support you while you learn more about your emotions and bodily resources, discover how to increase your self-esteem and become more resilient by overcoming your limiting beliefs about your beautiful self.
(03) 7003 2118 View (03) 7003 2118
Photo of Roshanak (Roshi) Raoofi, MSc, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Roshanak (Roshi) Raoofi
Psychotherapist, MSc, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist in Australia, holding a Master's degree in Counselling, and I am honoured to be an affiliated member of the Australian Institute of Counselling (25403). My professional accreditations include the following: Registered and Certified Individual/Group Clinical Supervisor with College of Supervisor, Level 1 Certified Emotionally Focused Individual Therapist, Level 1 & 2 Certified Complex Trauma Therapist, Level 1 Solution-Focused Couple Therapist, Certified Anger Management Therapist, Certified Guilt & Shame Specialist, Certified Sex Therapist and Level 1 Gottman Couple Certification.
I am a registered counsellor and psychotherapist in Australia, holding a Master's degree in Counselling, and I am honoured to be an affiliated member of the Australian Institute of Counselling (25403). My professional accreditations include the following: Registered and Certified Individual/Group Clinical Supervisor with College of Supervisor, Level 1 Certified Emotionally Focused Individual Therapist, Level 1 & 2 Certified Complex Trauma Therapist, Level 1 Solution-Focused Couple Therapist, Certified Anger Management Therapist, Certified Guilt & Shame Specialist, Certified Sex Therapist and Level 1 Gottman Couple Certification.
(03) 7500 5937 View (03) 7500 5937
Photo of Lauren Cariss, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Lauren Cariss
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3004
Objectives are often focused on improving interpersonal relationships, well-being & daily functioning drawing on CBT,ACT,EFT(not couples), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR.
Welcome. I'm Lauren. I offer services to both children and adults. Prior to working in private practice, I worked in educational and forensic settings with a variety of clientele and different presenting challenges. I provide support with a broad range of issues such as reduced self-esteem, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, depression, family violence, separation/divorce and parenting. I commonly work with clients diagnosed with Autism/Aspergers and ADHD. I particularly enjoy working with people who are experiencing anxiety, and those requiring support in healing from childhood relational wounds, and parenting
Objectives are often focused on improving interpersonal relationships, well-being & daily functioning drawing on CBT,ACT,EFT(not couples), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR.
Welcome. I'm Lauren. I offer services to both children and adults. Prior to working in private practice, I worked in educational and forensic settings with a variety of clientele and different presenting challenges. I provide support with a broad range of issues such as reduced self-esteem, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, depression, family violence, separation/divorce and parenting. I commonly work with clients diagnosed with Autism/Aspergers and ADHD. I particularly enjoy working with people who are experiencing anxiety, and those requiring support in healing from childhood relational wounds, and parenting
(03) 7500 5702 View (03) 7500 5702
Photo of undefined - Hypfocus Therapies - Georgina Mitchell, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Hypfocus Therapies - Georgina Mitchell
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mentone, VIC 3194
Are you ready for Positive Change? Welcome to Hypfocus Hypnotherapy, my name is Georgina Mitchell and I'm the owner of the practice! If you're ready to transform your life and overcome the challenges that are keeping you stuck and holding you back, I'm here to facilitate that change. As a highly trained Clinical Hypnotherapist, Professional Counsellor, Psychotherapist and EFT practitioner, I specialise in empowering individuals to achieve their desired goals.
Are you ready for Positive Change? Welcome to Hypfocus Hypnotherapy, my name is Georgina Mitchell and I'm the owner of the practice! If you're ready to transform your life and overcome the challenges that are keeping you stuck and holding you back, I'm here to facilitate that change. As a highly trained Clinical Hypnotherapist, Professional Counsellor, Psychotherapist and EFT practitioner, I specialise in empowering individuals to achieve their desired goals.
(03) 7500 5667 View (03) 7500 5667
Photo of Maria Light, MPsych, MACPA, Psychologist
Maria Light
Psychologist, MPsych, MACPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carlton, VIC 3053
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in private practice. I work with children, adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, trauma, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is informed by attachment theory, family systems theory, emotion focused therapy (EFT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). I have previously worked in school settings and I have also facilitated therapy groups for social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
I am a clinical psychologist currently working in private practice. I work with children, adolescents and adults experiencing a range of difficulties including anxiety, trauma, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, social anxiety and personality disorders. My therapeutic approach is informed by attachment theory, family systems theory, emotion focused therapy (EFT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). I have previously worked in school settings and I have also facilitated therapy groups for social anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.
(02) 4504 0104 View (02) 4504 0104
Photo of Inas Abosh, MC
Inas Abosh
MC
Verified Verified
South Morang, VIC 3752  (Online Only)
My practice relies on Evidence-Based, Person-Centred, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused approaches, and I believe in working hand in hand with clients to overcome difficulties and emotional disturbances during the therapeutic process.
I am a qualified Counsellor, specialised in Depression, Relationships, Career, Return to Work, Rehabilitation, and Vocational counselling. I have a Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation and mental health Counselling from Latrobe University. I am accredited by the Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors (ASORC). I have also a Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy from ACAP (in progress). Many years experience working with individuals and families, offering support in challenges accompanied by mental health, unemployment, disability and domestic violence.
My practice relies on Evidence-Based, Person-Centred, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused approaches, and I believe in working hand in hand with clients to overcome difficulties and emotional disturbances during the therapeutic process.
I am a qualified Counsellor, specialised in Depression, Relationships, Career, Return to Work, Rehabilitation, and Vocational counselling. I have a Graduate Diploma in Rehabilitation and mental health Counselling from Latrobe University. I am accredited by the Australian Society of Rehabilitation Counsellors (ASORC). I have also a Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy from ACAP (in progress). Many years experience working with individuals and families, offering support in challenges accompanied by mental health, unemployment, disability and domestic violence.
(03) 7303 3921 x039957 View (03) 7303 3921 x039957
Photo of Areti Alexova, PACFA, Counsellor
Areti Alexova
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Millgrove, VIC 3799
If you and your partner are yearning for a deeper connection, understanding, and lasting harmony in your relationship, I can help. Skilled in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy and well versed in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), I help couples and individuals create fulfilling relationships with their primary partner as well as with family, friends and colleagues. Be equipped with tools to manage conflicts, resolve issues, and communicate with love and respect in your primary relations, and effectively with others in your life.
If you and your partner are yearning for a deeper connection, understanding, and lasting harmony in your relationship, I can help. Skilled in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy and well versed in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), I help couples and individuals create fulfilling relationships with their primary partner as well as with family, friends and colleagues. Be equipped with tools to manage conflicts, resolve issues, and communicate with love and respect in your primary relations, and effectively with others in your life.
(03) 5910 1113 View (03) 5910 1113
Photo of Meg Wilson, PACFA, Counsellor
Meg Wilson
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
South Yarra, VIC 3141
I'm a poly-friendly relationship specialist with over 10 years experiences working with adults in clinical settings and in private practice. My qualifications include emotionally-focused therapy, person-centred therapy, art therapy and dialectical behavioural therapy. I am the founder and lead therapist of Unison Counselling where we have a special focus on issues relating to polyamory, non-monogamy, open relationships, and the LGBTQIA+ communities. We are available for both individual and relationship counselling and appointments are available online or in person.
I'm a poly-friendly relationship specialist with over 10 years experiences working with adults in clinical settings and in private practice. My qualifications include emotionally-focused therapy, person-centred therapy, art therapy and dialectical behavioural therapy. I am the founder and lead therapist of Unison Counselling where we have a special focus on issues relating to polyamory, non-monogamy, open relationships, and the LGBTQIA+ communities. We are available for both individual and relationship counselling and appointments are available online or in person.
(02) 4504 0202 View (02) 4504 0202
Photo of Linda Black
Linda Black
Verified Verified
Ferntree Gully, VIC 3156  (Online Only)
I use hypnotherapy and EFT as my primary methods though I have several others as well.
If you find yourself stuck in unresolved anger, resentment or prolonged grief that is impeding your ability to enjoy life now, I can help you release it. I honestly believe we should be able to enjoy our lives and grow from the challenges we face. When you get stuck there instead I can help you change that challenge into an opportunity for transformation. I also provide assistance for women at transitional stages of life - especially approaching retirement or in early retirement. I can also assist with emotional distress as a result of overwhelm, inner conflict, over-reaction, worry or overeating.
I use hypnotherapy and EFT as my primary methods though I have several others as well.
If you find yourself stuck in unresolved anger, resentment or prolonged grief that is impeding your ability to enjoy life now, I can help you release it. I honestly believe we should be able to enjoy our lives and grow from the challenges we face. When you get stuck there instead I can help you change that challenge into an opportunity for transformation. I also provide assistance for women at transitional stages of life - especially approaching retirement or in early retirement. I can also assist with emotional distress as a result of overwhelm, inner conflict, over-reaction, worry or overeating.
(03) 8203 5769 View (03) 8203 5769
Photo of Naomi Coulter, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Naomi Coulter
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Fitzroy, VIC 3065
Therapeutic approaches include: Adolescent Focused Thereapy (APT); Enhanced Cognitive Behaviour Thereapy (CBT-E), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Family Based Therapy (FBT-AN), Focal Psychodynamic, Multi Family Therapy ( MFT), Specialist Supportive Clinical Management (SSCM-ED).
I work with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing challenges with how they relate to themselves, others and their environment. I value my clients as unique individuals and aim to foster a sense of hope, determination and resilience in people to make positive changes in their lives in whatever capacity is meaningful to them. I work a lot with people to help them identify, manage and regulate difficult emotions. This also involves a deeper understanding of emotional reactions and an opportunity to benefit from learning from past experiences.
Therapeutic approaches include: Adolescent Focused Thereapy (APT); Enhanced Cognitive Behaviour Thereapy (CBT-E), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Family Based Therapy (FBT-AN), Focal Psychodynamic, Multi Family Therapy ( MFT), Specialist Supportive Clinical Management (SSCM-ED).
I work with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing challenges with how they relate to themselves, others and their environment. I value my clients as unique individuals and aim to foster a sense of hope, determination and resilience in people to make positive changes in their lives in whatever capacity is meaningful to them. I work a lot with people to help them identify, manage and regulate difficult emotions. This also involves a deeper understanding of emotional reactions and an opportunity to benefit from learning from past experiences.
(03) 7003 2813 View (03) 7003 2813

See more therapy options for Victoria

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.