Emotionally Focused Therapists in Hamilton, ON
I have completed training in DBT, Trauma-informed care, EFT and IFS (in progress)
I believe therapy allows people to share their stories and feel their emotions in an environment that is safe and considers their unique needs. I strive to validate people’s emotions (because they are understandable), to highlight their strengths (because sometimes people can’t see them) and to build hope (because it can be restored).
I have completed training in DBT, Trauma-informed care, EFT and IFS (in progress)
I believe therapy allows people to share their stories and feel their emotions in an environment that is safe and considers their unique needs. I strive to validate people’s emotions (because they are understandable), to highlight their strengths (because sometimes people can’t see them) and to build hope (because it can be restored).
Making Space Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, AF-EMDR, IFS, MACP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8P
We provide a trauma-informed and responsive space to work with a variety of issues, and we use cutting edge styles such as IFS, AF-EMDR, Psychedelic Integration, Somatic, Sensorimotor, Brainspotting, EFT and more.
Welcome! Do you want to get to the heart of what hurts? We work with incredible humans like you who may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, exhausted, dissociating, fawning, struggling in your relationships, having difficulties with sex and intimacy, blindsided by betrayal, spinning from gaslighting abuse, or just generally struggling and often dealing with a difficult childhood or series of tough experiences. You can take a breath - we get it, and we've got you. As trauma and relationship therapists we believe in your ability to feel more present and alive. Is that tough for you to imagine? That’s ok, we can get you there together.
We provide a trauma-informed and responsive space to work with a variety of issues, and we use cutting edge styles such as IFS, AF-EMDR, Psychedelic Integration, Somatic, Sensorimotor, Brainspotting, EFT and more.
Welcome! Do you want to get to the heart of what hurts? We work with incredible humans like you who may be feeling anxious, overwhelmed, exhausted, dissociating, fawning, struggling in your relationships, having difficulties with sex and intimacy, blindsided by betrayal, spinning from gaslighting abuse, or just generally struggling and often dealing with a difficult childhood or series of tough experiences. You can take a breath - we get it, and we've got you. As trauma and relationship therapists we believe in your ability to feel more present and alive. Is that tough for you to imagine? That’s ok, we can get you there together.
I am an experienced Master's level Social Worker, Psychotherapist & Addiction Counsellor offering counselling & psychotherapy for clients in both Ontario & Nova Scotia. I have worked extensively in the social services field since 1999 & as a Registered Social Worker since 2003. I have assisted adults experiencing a wide range of issues (e.g., addiction, anger/emotional problems, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma & critical incident stress). I am committed to ongoing professional development & training & to providing an emotionally safe, supportive & honest environment for all of my clients.
I am an experienced Master's level Social Worker, Psychotherapist & Addiction Counsellor offering counselling & psychotherapy for clients in both Ontario & Nova Scotia. I have worked extensively in the social services field since 1999 & as a Registered Social Worker since 2003. I have assisted adults experiencing a wide range of issues (e.g., addiction, anger/emotional problems, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, trauma & critical incident stress). I am committed to ongoing professional development & training & to providing an emotionally safe, supportive & honest environment for all of my clients.
For Couples therapy I use the Gottman method and EFT to help couples reconnect, develop healthy conflict resolution skills, reestablish intimacy, and improve communication.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or stuck in a cycle of rumination, overthinking and worrying? Anxiety, stress and depression can negatively impact your well-being, work and relationships, leaving you feeling disconnected from your loved ones or your partner. Are you ready to change how you approach life and relationships, to experience meaningful connections without being held back by daily challenges and anxieties. If you want to learn effective coping skills and communication methods to enhance your romantic and personal relationships, I’m here to provide a safe, open-minded space to support your healing journey!
For Couples therapy I use the Gottman method and EFT to help couples reconnect, develop healthy conflict resolution skills, reestablish intimacy, and improve communication.
Are you struggling with relationship issues or stuck in a cycle of rumination, overthinking and worrying? Anxiety, stress and depression can negatively impact your well-being, work and relationships, leaving you feeling disconnected from your loved ones or your partner. Are you ready to change how you approach life and relationships, to experience meaningful connections without being held back by daily challenges and anxieties. If you want to learn effective coping skills and communication methods to enhance your romantic and personal relationships, I’m here to provide a safe, open-minded space to support your healing journey!
Alexandra Myers
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N
I offer a personalized, integrative approach to therapy, combining CBT, DBT, EFT, etc.
Have you ever felt unsure of how to move forward? Life can be challenging at times, leaving us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, burnout and alone. Sometimes, that distress even leaves us feeling disconnected from what matters most, overwhelmed with emotion and unsure of what to do next. I understand that sometimes emotions can be big and overwhelming, while other times they can be subtle and go unnoticed. It's also not unlikely that sometimes these emotions will spill over, causing disruption in our everyday life.
I offer a personalized, integrative approach to therapy, combining CBT, DBT, EFT, etc.
Have you ever felt unsure of how to move forward? Life can be challenging at times, leaving us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, burnout and alone. Sometimes, that distress even leaves us feeling disconnected from what matters most, overwhelmed with emotion and unsure of what to do next. I understand that sometimes emotions can be big and overwhelming, while other times they can be subtle and go unnoticed. It's also not unlikely that sometimes these emotions will spill over, causing disruption in our everyday life.
I have additional training in Emotionally Focused Couples therapy and The Gottman Method.
If you’re feeling disconnected from your partner, struggling to communicate, experience constant misunderstandings, emotional distance, betrayals, let downs or are stuck in the same arguments, it’s time to try something new.
Because overtime, the small things become big things, and you end up feeling distant and disconnected.
Relationships require work and regular nurturing to thrive, but should they be “hard”? I don’t think so.
I believe that with intentionality, the right tools and skills that allow you to repair ruptures to the relationship, that things should get better over time.
I have additional training in Emotionally Focused Couples therapy and The Gottman Method.
If you’re feeling disconnected from your partner, struggling to communicate, experience constant misunderstandings, emotional distance, betrayals, let downs or are stuck in the same arguments, it’s time to try something new.
Because overtime, the small things become big things, and you end up feeling distant and disconnected.
Relationships require work and regular nurturing to thrive, but should they be “hard”? I don’t think so.
I believe that with intentionality, the right tools and skills that allow you to repair ruptures to the relationship, that things should get better over time.
I am an Emotionally Focused Therapist.
Do you feel stuck and unsure about how to move forward? Do you want more fulfilling relationships? Do you experience conflict? Sometimes people find it hard to pinpoint what their struggles are, but they feel a deep desire for change. Couples may find it hard to feel connected. They may feel anger, resentment, and frustration, and wonder how to overcome these feelings, to feel closer and deeply understood by each other. Parents may find it hard to stay connected to their children or want support around how to overcome challenging interactions.
I am an Emotionally Focused Therapist.
Do you feel stuck and unsure about how to move forward? Do you want more fulfilling relationships? Do you experience conflict? Sometimes people find it hard to pinpoint what their struggles are, but they feel a deep desire for change. Couples may find it hard to feel connected. They may feel anger, resentment, and frustration, and wonder how to overcome these feelings, to feel closer and deeply understood by each other. Parents may find it hard to stay connected to their children or want support around how to overcome challenging interactions.
I rely on my training and experiences in various clinical frameworks, including CBT, DBT, ACT, trauma, attachment, child development, family systems and emotionally focused family therapy.
As a therapist with over 2o years of experience, I hear clients say they wished they had reached out sooner for support. Often, shame or guilt had gotten in their way, somehow thinking they should be able to make changes alone. Quite honestly, we are not meant to do things alone. I offer treatment for struggles such as family stressors, parenting biological, foster and adoptive children, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and childhood maltreatment experiences. I work extensively with parents with their own adverse childhood experiences to change patterns from their upbringing and feel more successful in their parenting.
I rely on my training and experiences in various clinical frameworks, including CBT, DBT, ACT, trauma, attachment, child development, family systems and emotionally focused family therapy.
As a therapist with over 2o years of experience, I hear clients say they wished they had reached out sooner for support. Often, shame or guilt had gotten in their way, somehow thinking they should be able to make changes alone. Quite honestly, we are not meant to do things alone. I offer treatment for struggles such as family stressors, parenting biological, foster and adoptive children, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and childhood maltreatment experiences. I work extensively with parents with their own adverse childhood experiences to change patterns from their upbringing and feel more successful in their parenting.
Farah Kurji Professional Counselling & Classes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW, RCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L9B
I am advanced certified in CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT & am always learning; I customize therapies to support you in meeting your goals - one size should not fit all!
Please note: Currently only serving past or active clients: New clients are welcome to connect for classes, only Online Sessions available - Welcome to a space that is non-judgmental, intelligent and effective! Are you ready to feel better? Ready to learn skills and let go and reprocess messages and incidents that no longer serve you? Is it your turn to feel calmer and empowered instead of stressed, overwhelmed and stuck? If so, let's connect! Proud to serve Alberta and Ontario.
I am advanced certified in CBT, IFS, EMDR, Gottman, EFT & am always learning; I customize therapies to support you in meeting your goals - one size should not fit all!
Please note: Currently only serving past or active clients: New clients are welcome to connect for classes, only Online Sessions available - Welcome to a space that is non-judgmental, intelligent and effective! Are you ready to feel better? Ready to learn skills and let go and reprocess messages and incidents that no longer serve you? Is it your turn to feel calmer and empowered instead of stressed, overwhelmed and stuck? If so, let's connect! Proud to serve Alberta and Ontario.
Ikram Haji
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, EMDR, CCTS-I, EFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I integrate self acceptance and commitment, EMDR, EFT, IFS, CBT, DBT and more.
Hello and Warmest Welcome! I am Ikram and I offer telehealth across Canada. Reaching out for support is not easy and can be a scary and ovewhelming process. I get that the hardest thing we ever do is ask for help and I am so glad that you made it this far. Are you ready to deal with unresolved trauma? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling shame, lost, or misunderstood? Is that voice in your head getting louder and stronger at reminding you of your shortcomings or that you are not good enough? If any of this resonates with you, keep reading…
I integrate self acceptance and commitment, EMDR, EFT, IFS, CBT, DBT and more.
Hello and Warmest Welcome! I am Ikram and I offer telehealth across Canada. Reaching out for support is not easy and can be a scary and ovewhelming process. I get that the hardest thing we ever do is ask for help and I am so glad that you made it this far. Are you ready to deal with unresolved trauma? Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling shame, lost, or misunderstood? Is that voice in your head getting louder and stronger at reminding you of your shortcomings or that you are not good enough? If any of this resonates with you, keep reading…
I use cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) to change thoughts and behaviours, person-centred therapy to foster a supportive therapeutic relationship, emotion-focused therapy ( EFT) to explore and process emotions, and EMDR to target trauma-related memories.
Thank you for visiting my profile. Happy New Year! I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with 17+ years of experience. I'm also a partner at Locke Psychotherapy. During my career, I have provided therapy to individuals and groups in hospital clinics, primary care teams, and private practice. I am passionate about helping people learn about themselves, gain relief from symptoms, feel more self-accepting and hopeful that things will get better. My interests and expertise include helping people deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotion regulation difficulties, grief, family dynamics, parenting, and relationship issues.
I use cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) to change thoughts and behaviours, person-centred therapy to foster a supportive therapeutic relationship, emotion-focused therapy ( EFT) to explore and process emotions, and EMDR to target trauma-related memories.
Thank you for visiting my profile. Happy New Year! I'm a Registered Psychotherapist with 17+ years of experience. I'm also a partner at Locke Psychotherapy. During my career, I have provided therapy to individuals and groups in hospital clinics, primary care teams, and private practice. I am passionate about helping people learn about themselves, gain relief from symptoms, feel more self-accepting and hopeful that things will get better. My interests and expertise include helping people deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotion regulation difficulties, grief, family dynamics, parenting, and relationship issues.
Meet Our Emotionally Focused Counsellors
Portia Zaffaroni
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), CEC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, validation and curiosity using a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I work with individuals and couples to improve their well-being, and re-connect with themselves and their loved ones on a deeper emotional level. I use a practical and direct approach to explore your unique experiences, determine your strengths and find techniques and solutions that take into account the moving parts in your life.
My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, validation and curiosity using a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I work with individuals and couples to improve their well-being, and re-connect with themselves and their loved ones on a deeper emotional level. I use a practical and direct approach to explore your unique experiences, determine your strengths and find techniques and solutions that take into account the moving parts in your life.
Corey Sleep
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BScKin, MTS, MACP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8N
For couples, we'll use Gottman and EFT therapies.
I believe in a holistic approach to health, so my clients come in with many different concerns, sometimes without knowing the full picture. Old traumas often haunt them, grief remains unprocessed, or they struggle to stop acting out in sex or other addictions. I'm certified as a trauma-, addictions-, and grief-informed professional, and have a broad educational base in helping folks heal mentally, physically, and spiritually. Trauma can heal, grief is a natural process, and addiction can be treated.
For couples, we'll use Gottman and EFT therapies.
I believe in a holistic approach to health, so my clients come in with many different concerns, sometimes without knowing the full picture. Old traumas often haunt them, grief remains unprocessed, or they struggle to stop acting out in sex or other addictions. I'm certified as a trauma-, addictions-, and grief-informed professional, and have a broad educational base in helping folks heal mentally, physically, and spiritually. Trauma can heal, grief is a natural process, and addiction can be treated.
Imrana Khan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I draw upon Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Attachment theory, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Mindfulness based practices.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with years of experience in the mental health field. I currently work with adults, teens and children. I believe that strength is a characteristic that resides in all people. It can however, be difficult to see during times of hardship and vulnerability. I have the goal of helping my clients feel empowered and to make the positive changes needed to live healthy, fulfilled lives. I focus primarily on issues related to depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. I also have experience working with clients battling substance abuse issues, abandonment and victims of domestic violence.
I draw upon Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Attachment theory, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Mindfulness based practices.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with years of experience in the mental health field. I currently work with adults, teens and children. I believe that strength is a characteristic that resides in all people. It can however, be difficult to see during times of hardship and vulnerability. I have the goal of helping my clients feel empowered and to make the positive changes needed to live healthy, fulfilled lives. I focus primarily on issues related to depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. I also have experience working with clients battling substance abuse issues, abandonment and victims of domestic violence.
![Photo of Marion Roberts - Marion Roberts [Bedrock Counselling], Registered Social Worker, RSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/430d055c-49a0-4384-89a5-048fb5ae7774/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marion Roberts [Bedrock Counselling]
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8L
Lastly, EMDR and EFT are used for trauma reprocessing!
I spent about 10 years in the highest burnout sectors of social work. From this experience, I have developed a keen trauma-informed perspective, supporting populations navigating systemic barriers and compounded complex mental health. I have also worked with a large breadth of mental health diagnoses, within every category of the DSM, from a client-centered and strengths based framework. With this experience, and practicing therapy modalities that are transferable to various mental health difficulties, I would say that I am a generalist.
Lastly, EMDR and EFT are used for trauma reprocessing!
I spent about 10 years in the highest burnout sectors of social work. From this experience, I have developed a keen trauma-informed perspective, supporting populations navigating systemic barriers and compounded complex mental health. I have also worked with a large breadth of mental health diagnoses, within every category of the DSM, from a client-centered and strengths based framework. With this experience, and practicing therapy modalities that are transferable to various mental health difficulties, I would say that I am a generalist.
I have received further training in CBT, DBT, DBT-ED, CBT-E, CBT-AFRID & EFT-for couples
Accepting NEW Clients. Hi! I’m Ash (they/them). I work with youth (17+) and adults who are living with anxiety, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, OSFED), substance use concerns, and depression. Are you someone who experiences strong emotions, but doesn’t always manage them in helpful ways? Perhaps you respond impulsively at times and engage in actions that are inconsistent with how you want to show up for yourself or others. At other times, you might become overwhelmed by feelings like anxiety, fear, or shame and then withdraw or avoid doing things that could bring you joy or move you closer to recovery.
I have received further training in CBT, DBT, DBT-ED, CBT-E, CBT-AFRID & EFT-for couples
Accepting NEW Clients. Hi! I’m Ash (they/them). I work with youth (17+) and adults who are living with anxiety, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, OSFED), substance use concerns, and depression. Are you someone who experiences strong emotions, but doesn’t always manage them in helpful ways? Perhaps you respond impulsively at times and engage in actions that are inconsistent with how you want to show up for yourself or others. At other times, you might become overwhelmed by feelings like anxiety, fear, or shame and then withdraw or avoid doing things that could bring you joy or move you closer to recovery.
Peter Wong
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, PGCSE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8N
He is a gifted practitioner of Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), a powerful approach that has helped countless couples restore secure, loving connections.
You've just had the same fight with your partner for the 100th time. "He needs space again!" "I can't seem to do anything right with her." "He says we'll talk about it later but later never comes." "I just want us to calm down, but it's like she wants to fight!"
You both get over it but it rarely feels resolved. You're walking on egg shells now, maybe resentment is starting to fester, and the love you once had for each other feels further and further away. You're not alone! With a little help, you may find yourself getting through to each other again.
He is a gifted practitioner of Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), a powerful approach that has helped countless couples restore secure, loving connections.
You've just had the same fight with your partner for the 100th time. "He needs space again!" "I can't seem to do anything right with her." "He says we'll talk about it later but later never comes." "I just want us to calm down, but it's like she wants to fight!"
You both get over it but it rarely feels resolved. You're walking on egg shells now, maybe resentment is starting to fester, and the love you once had for each other feels further and further away. You're not alone! With a little help, you may find yourself getting through to each other again.
Lindsay Ryan
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, BA Hons
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8H
I will draw on skills from a variety of modalities, including DBT, SFT, EFT and more!
Are you struggling with the demands of life? Do you have a low mood, or big shifts in your mood? Do you find you are very critical of yourself but find compassion for others? Do you often feel misunderstood? I can help you explore these experiences and co-create meaning and solutions that suit you. I am also now providing support for couples in conflict and have a particular focus on ADHD-impacted relationships. You don't have to be in crisis to seek help. We can start now!
I will draw on skills from a variety of modalities, including DBT, SFT, EFT and more!
Are you struggling with the demands of life? Do you have a low mood, or big shifts in your mood? Do you find you are very critical of yourself but find compassion for others? Do you often feel misunderstood? I can help you explore these experiences and co-create meaning and solutions that suit you. I am also now providing support for couples in conflict and have a particular focus on ADHD-impacted relationships. You don't have to be in crisis to seek help. We can start now!
Ferdie Mateos
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, ADHD-CP, EMDR, BA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Online Only
To suit your unique needs, I use a culturally- and trauma-informed flexible approach to Narrative, EMDR, Attachment/ Emotionally Focused, DBT, CBT, IFS therapies and won't force you to fit into a "box.
Accepting NEW Clients! - Are you hoping to feel less "stuck," anxious, or sad? Is there a part of you hoping to reconnect with yourself and build confidence, build better boundaries, or understand how your childhood impacts your present? Do you want to learn coping strategies or skills for daily life or ADHD? Have you experienced a loss that you're looking to work through, or find stress is too present in your day? Do you sometimes just need someone to create a judgement-free space for you to tell your story? Are you a couple looking to reconnect, problem solve, or communicate? Reach out - I can't wait to hear from you.
To suit your unique needs, I use a culturally- and trauma-informed flexible approach to Narrative, EMDR, Attachment/ Emotionally Focused, DBT, CBT, IFS therapies and won't force you to fit into a "box.
Accepting NEW Clients! - Are you hoping to feel less "stuck," anxious, or sad? Is there a part of you hoping to reconnect with yourself and build confidence, build better boundaries, or understand how your childhood impacts your present? Do you want to learn coping strategies or skills for daily life or ADHD? Have you experienced a loss that you're looking to work through, or find stress is too present in your day? Do you sometimes just need someone to create a judgement-free space for you to tell your story? Are you a couple looking to reconnect, problem solve, or communicate? Reach out - I can't wait to hear from you.
With a PhD and extensive clinical experience, I specialize in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and various trauma approaches including Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure and EMDR.
Imagine waking up every day feeling overwhelmed by emotions you can’t quite control, struggling with the weight of past trauma, or feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns of behaviour. It’s exhausting,disorienting,and sometimes, it can feel like there’s no way out. Maybe you’re navigating the effects of trauma, experiencing difficulties in relationships, or unsure about your career path. You might find yourself shutting down or fighting too hard to protect yourself, making it hard to find balance. You’re longing for self-acceptance, inner peace and a deeper sense of fulfillment.
With a PhD and extensive clinical experience, I specialize in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and various trauma approaches including Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure and EMDR.
Imagine waking up every day feeling overwhelmed by emotions you can’t quite control, struggling with the weight of past trauma, or feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns of behaviour. It’s exhausting,disorienting,and sometimes, it can feel like there’s no way out. Maybe you’re navigating the effects of trauma, experiencing difficulties in relationships, or unsure about your career path. You might find yourself shutting down or fighting too hard to protect yourself, making it hard to find balance. You’re longing for self-acceptance, inner peace and a deeper sense of fulfillment.
See more therapy options for Hamilton
Nearby Emotionally Focused Counsellors Searches for Hamilton
- Ancaster
- Beamsville
- Binbrook
- Burlington
- Caledonia
- Dundas
- Grimsby
- Hagersville
- Oakville
- Smithville
- Stoney Creek
- Waterdown
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.