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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maternal Mental Health Specialist Renata Christen, RSW, MSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Maternal Mental Health Specialist Renata Christen
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Courtice, ON L1E  (Online Only)
As a mother, you’ve done all your homework and have read all the scripts on what should be done, but for some reason, you’re still not feeling satisfied. You seem to have a never ending to-do list that overwhelms you and always seems to pull you away from what you truly want: a deeper connection to yourself, your partner, and your children. Within the ocean of “shoulds”, you are feeling anxious, resentful, unseen and unheard, while asking yourself, “What’s the point of working so hard?” As you try to keep up with all of the things, everything seems to be bubbling over and like it’s about to explode.
As a mother, you’ve done all your homework and have read all the scripts on what should be done, but for some reason, you’re still not feeling satisfied. You seem to have a never ending to-do list that overwhelms you and always seems to pull you away from what you truly want: a deeper connection to yourself, your partner, and your children. Within the ocean of “shoulds”, you are feeling anxious, resentful, unseen and unheard, while asking yourself, “What’s the point of working so hard?” As you try to keep up with all of the things, everything seems to be bubbling over and like it’s about to explode.
(289) 270-6903 View (289) 270-6903
Photo of Bri Support Team - BRI Counselling , PhD, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
BRI Counselling
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1S
Hello & Welcome to BRI Counselling! My name is Fola Browne and I am the founder of BRI. We are a warm, welcoming, culturally responsive & affirming counselling service with a diverse, compassionate, & talented team. We specialize in supporting individuals, couples, & families at all ages & stages of life to achieve their goals, including healing & recovery from trauma, major life changes & transitions, & building new strengths & skills for future success. With a customized blend of western, eastern, Afro-Centric, & Indigenous approaches, we support each client to identify & make progress toward their most important goals.
Hello & Welcome to BRI Counselling! My name is Fola Browne and I am the founder of BRI. We are a warm, welcoming, culturally responsive & affirming counselling service with a diverse, compassionate, & talented team. We specialize in supporting individuals, couples, & families at all ages & stages of life to achieve their goals, including healing & recovery from trauma, major life changes & transitions, & building new strengths & skills for future success. With a customized blend of western, eastern, Afro-Centric, & Indigenous approaches, we support each client to identify & make progress toward their most important goals.
(289) 302-7354 View (289) 302-7354

Online Therapists

Photo of Ivona D. Zager, MAPsych, CRPO-RP, CBT CPT, EMDR, hypno, Registered Psychotherapist
Ivona D. Zager
Registered Psychotherapist, MAPsych, CRPO-RP, CBT CPT, EMDR, hypno
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
jasny umysl + znajomosc siebie + emocjonalna inteligencja = zdrowie i sprawnosc umyslowa. Dobre samopoczucie to stan naturalny i normalny. Sa sposoby na wydostanie sie z depresji, nerwowosci, zestresowania, poczucia zagubienia, czy niedawania sobie rady ze swoimi reakcjami. Pomagam rowniez redukowac bol chroniczny. A takze, o nasz umysl mozemy dbac by byl jasny i sprawny. Ja stosuje techniki terapeutyczne, ktore usprawniaja myslenie i reguluja stany emocjonalne.
jasny umysl + znajomosc siebie + emocjonalna inteligencja = zdrowie i sprawnosc umyslowa. Dobre samopoczucie to stan naturalny i normalny. Sa sposoby na wydostanie sie z depresji, nerwowosci, zestresowania, poczucia zagubienia, czy niedawania sobie rady ze swoimi reakcjami. Pomagam rowniez redukowac bol chroniczny. A takze, o nasz umysl mozemy dbac by byl jasny i sprawny. Ja stosuje techniki terapeutyczne, ktore usprawniaja myslenie i reguluja stany emocjonalne.
(289) 401-8180 View (289) 401-8180
Photo of Maggie (Malgorzata) Lulkiewicz-Brooker, MSW, BSW, CYW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Maggie (Malgorzata) Lulkiewicz-Brooker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, CYW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brantford, ON N3R
I (Maggie) utilize a variety of therapy modalities to address the needs of individuals, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) as well as meditation and Reiki.
Malgorzata (Maggie) Lulkiewicz-Brooker Registered Social Worker. My services are covered by most insurance and benefit plans. Registered Social Workers provide counselling services to individuals, couples and families. I bring 15 years of experience working with youths and families. I have extensive experience treating clients with various life challenges, specializing in mental health, addiction, trauma, grief, family abuse, anxiety, and mood disorders. I am motivated to continue educating myself in treatments to help my clients to meet their full potential.
I (Maggie) utilize a variety of therapy modalities to address the needs of individuals, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) as well as meditation and Reiki.
Malgorzata (Maggie) Lulkiewicz-Brooker Registered Social Worker. My services are covered by most insurance and benefit plans. Registered Social Workers provide counselling services to individuals, couples and families. I bring 15 years of experience working with youths and families. I have extensive experience treating clients with various life challenges, specializing in mental health, addiction, trauma, grief, family abuse, anxiety, and mood disorders. I am motivated to continue educating myself in treatments to help my clients to meet their full potential.
(226) 400-6962 View (226) 400-6962
Photo of Anna Wesolinska, RP, MEd, OACCPP, Registered Psychotherapist
Anna Wesolinska
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd, OACCPP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
In my work with couples, I use EFT and the Gottman method.
I work from a model of health, balance and empathy by bringing into awareness the places where we get stuck and our unique ways of getting there. You know best when your patterns of coping are no longer working. A therapist's job is to support you in creating positive shifts in your life. This support may sometimes feel frustrating, especially when our familiar patterns of functioning are being challenged. I incorporate art, humour and paradox in sessions allowing for a creative, spontaneous exploration of your needs, contradictions and feelings and by providing a safe space where new possibilities and hope are possible.
In my work with couples, I use EFT and the Gottman method.
I work from a model of health, balance and empathy by bringing into awareness the places where we get stuck and our unique ways of getting there. You know best when your patterns of coping are no longer working. A therapist's job is to support you in creating positive shifts in your life. This support may sometimes feel frustrating, especially when our familiar patterns of functioning are being challenged. I incorporate art, humour and paradox in sessions allowing for a creative, spontaneous exploration of your needs, contradictions and feelings and by providing a safe space where new possibilities and hope are possible.
(855) 729-6060 View (855) 729-6060
Photo of Mariola Malasinski, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mariola Malasinski
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5B
Daytime appointments are available online for individuals and couples. I specialize in marriage and couples therapy as well as individual therapy. I am a certified couples therapist in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). It is my privilege to assist clients who are curious and motivated about change. If you are at a crossroads – whether that is a “mid life crisis”, or want to save your marriage or re-vision who you are in various facets of your life - I am here to help. I can assist you to enter on a spiritual path, to invite more love and closeness into your relationships and help you decrease anxiety and depression.
Daytime appointments are available online for individuals and couples. I specialize in marriage and couples therapy as well as individual therapy. I am a certified couples therapist in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). It is my privilege to assist clients who are curious and motivated about change. If you are at a crossroads – whether that is a “mid life crisis”, or want to save your marriage or re-vision who you are in various facets of your life - I am here to help. I can assist you to enter on a spiritual path, to invite more love and closeness into your relationships and help you decrease anxiety and depression.
(289) 805-3717 View (289) 805-3717
Photo of Aneta Dzienniak, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Aneta Dzienniak
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
Welcome! I provide individual and couples talk therapy for adults, bringing warmth, empathy, and patience to every interaction. My goal is to create a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental space where healing can occur. I use a strengths-based approach, tailoring my methods to fit each individual's unique background. I incorporate various evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, emotionally focused therapy, attachment theory, and mindfulness techniques, to help my patients develop better self-awareness, overcome feelings of being "stuck," connect more deeply with others and live life more congruently.
Welcome! I provide individual and couples talk therapy for adults, bringing warmth, empathy, and patience to every interaction. My goal is to create a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental space where healing can occur. I use a strengths-based approach, tailoring my methods to fit each individual's unique background. I incorporate various evidence-based treatments, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, emotionally focused therapy, attachment theory, and mindfulness techniques, to help my patients develop better self-awareness, overcome feelings of being "stuck," connect more deeply with others and live life more congruently.
(437) 747-6410 View (437) 747-6410
Photo of Ivona Szostak, (Qual), MEd, HBSc, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Ivona Szostak
Registered Psychotherapist, (Qual), MEd, HBSc, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5L
Life can present us with complex challenges, and seeking support is a courageous step toward healing and personal growth. Ivona is here to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where you can embark on your journey of self-discovery and well-being. Ivona is more than a therapist; she's a dedicated partner in your healing journey. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations, she understands the unique emotional needs of her clients. Ivona utilizes Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFIT) and (IFS) to take you deep into your experiences and to heal from past emotional wounds.
Life can present us with complex challenges, and seeking support is a courageous step toward healing and personal growth. Ivona is here to provide a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space where you can embark on your journey of self-discovery and well-being. Ivona is more than a therapist; she's a dedicated partner in your healing journey. With over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations, she understands the unique emotional needs of her clients. Ivona utilizes Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFIT) and (IFS) to take you deep into your experiences and to heal from past emotional wounds.
(365) 607-5650 View (365) 607-5650
Photo of Kornelia Anna Hawrylewicz, MA, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kornelia Anna Hawrylewicz
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5R
Welcome! Let me start out by telling you what I tell all my potential clients: Therapy is such an individual process and so much of it has to do with finding the right therapist. Many of us have similar training and areas of expertise but we all differ in personality. I want to use this space here to give you an idea of my vibe and approach. I’m a little quirky with a gentle approach and strong ability to challenge you and explore with you. I can sit with you in heavy spaces, difficult feelings, and complex thoughts.
Welcome! Let me start out by telling you what I tell all my potential clients: Therapy is such an individual process and so much of it has to do with finding the right therapist. Many of us have similar training and areas of expertise but we all differ in personality. I want to use this space here to give you an idea of my vibe and approach. I’m a little quirky with a gentle approach and strong ability to challenge you and explore with you. I can sit with you in heavy spaces, difficult feelings, and complex thoughts.
(289) 207-7654 View (289) 207-7654
Photo of Piece Of Mind Counselling - Piece of Mind Counselling, MA, RP, MSW, RSW
Piece of Mind Counselling
MA, RP, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5R
You have found this site as you are taking the first step towards change. These first steps are often scary & difficult but we are here to support you! Our highly trained and compassionate therapists provide a range of services that are usually covered by your extended healthcare plan. We strive to create a safe & comfortable environment in which, you will be able to work through the issues that you are finding yourself struggling with. We are dedicated to helping people maintain a state of wellness for themselves & their families. New to our practice: student therapists offering compassionate rates. Please inquire.
You have found this site as you are taking the first step towards change. These first steps are often scary & difficult but we are here to support you! Our highly trained and compassionate therapists provide a range of services that are usually covered by your extended healthcare plan. We strive to create a safe & comfortable environment in which, you will be able to work through the issues that you are finding yourself struggling with. We are dedicated to helping people maintain a state of wellness for themselves & their families. New to our practice: student therapists offering compassionate rates. Please inquire.
(289) 805-6691 View (289) 805-6691
Photo of Marcelina Malinski, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Marcelina Malinski
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
I offer compassionate therapy in a nurturing environment where you feel safe and supported. I am dedicated to empowering you in connecting with your authentic self - the aligned state of inner wisdom and strength. I assist Individuals desiring to heal from experiences of trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger, to embody what is meaningful and fulfilling. I will guide you in modifying unhelpful thinking patterns, promoting healthier ways of relating to your emotions, and approaching life challenges with greater ease and self-assurance. Together, we will address presenting issues at their root, to create space for lasting change.
I offer compassionate therapy in a nurturing environment where you feel safe and supported. I am dedicated to empowering you in connecting with your authentic self - the aligned state of inner wisdom and strength. I assist Individuals desiring to heal from experiences of trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger, to embody what is meaningful and fulfilling. I will guide you in modifying unhelpful thinking patterns, promoting healthier ways of relating to your emotions, and approaching life challenges with greater ease and self-assurance. Together, we will address presenting issues at their root, to create space for lasting change.
(249) 201-9236 View (249) 201-9236
Photo of Bojena Kelmendi - VivelaVitaTherapies, BHSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
VivelaVitaTherapies
Registered Social Worker, BHSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Kitchener, ON N2M
Do you want to develop strategies to better manage the thoughts, feelings and relationships that are holding you back from a healthy and productive life? Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life, experiencing mental or physical illness, grief, and loss, stress in your job, relationships or as a caregiver or parent? There are steps you can take to improve your psychological well-being, strengthen your relationships and attachments and move towards personal healing and growth. I am here to help you break the cycle or negative thoughts, emotions and relationships and take steps to experience a more positive and fulfilling life.
Do you want to develop strategies to better manage the thoughts, feelings and relationships that are holding you back from a healthy and productive life? Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life, experiencing mental or physical illness, grief, and loss, stress in your job, relationships or as a caregiver or parent? There are steps you can take to improve your psychological well-being, strengthen your relationships and attachments and move towards personal healing and growth. I am here to help you break the cycle or negative thoughts, emotions and relationships and take steps to experience a more positive and fulfilling life.
(226) 400-1912 View (226) 400-1912
Photo of Charlene Mercer - Cobblestone Counselling Group, Registered Social Worker
Cobblestone Counselling Group
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paris, ON N3L
We offer private In-person, phone and video Counselling and Psychotherapy services in Paris, Ontario. Are you struggling to understand and cope with challenges in your personal or professional life? Cobblestone Counselling and Psychotherapy group offers children, individuals, families and couples counselling. Like all services at Cobblestone, Counselling services are focused on treating people holistically. We see the person as a whole and employ a person centred, collaborative and integrative approach to counselling and therapy. Finding a therapist uniquely fitting to your needs is significant to us at Cobblestone.
We offer private In-person, phone and video Counselling and Psychotherapy services in Paris, Ontario. Are you struggling to understand and cope with challenges in your personal or professional life? Cobblestone Counselling and Psychotherapy group offers children, individuals, families and couples counselling. Like all services at Cobblestone, Counselling services are focused on treating people holistically. We see the person as a whole and employ a person centred, collaborative and integrative approach to counselling and therapy. Finding a therapist uniquely fitting to your needs is significant to us at Cobblestone.
(519) 442-2237 View (519) 442-2237
Photo of Sylwia Domanski - Alivia Solutions Psychotherapy and Wellness, BA, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Alivia Solutions Psychotherapy and Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orangeville, ON L9W
We're Alivia Solutions, a passionate & dedicated team of professionals help toddlers, children, youth, adults, families and couples deal with life issues. We believe that therapy is for everyone not just when you are in crisis. Therapy is a way to get unstuck from old patterns that no longer serve you. Life is uncertain & full of twists and turns. Parenting is hard. Relationships take work. Families can be dysfunctional. And sometimes love hurts. When we are confronted with feelings, events, or issues that make our life challenging - it’s ok to ask for help. We provide a safe in person and virtual space to be able to HEAL!
We're Alivia Solutions, a passionate & dedicated team of professionals help toddlers, children, youth, adults, families and couples deal with life issues. We believe that therapy is for everyone not just when you are in crisis. Therapy is a way to get unstuck from old patterns that no longer serve you. Life is uncertain & full of twists and turns. Parenting is hard. Relationships take work. Families can be dysfunctional. And sometimes love hurts. When we are confronted with feelings, events, or issues that make our life challenging - it’s ok to ask for help. We provide a safe in person and virtual space to be able to HEAL!
(548) 800-1728 View (548) 800-1728
Photo of Ewa Antczak - Core Centre Inc., PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Core Centre Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5J
Core Centre Inc. provides assessment, consultation and counselling for children, youth and adults. Through our platform we provide online consultations, counselling and therapy with registered psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers. They can assist with a variety of issues, including: learning/academic struggles, behavioural difficulties, developmental delays, autism and relationship problems, among many other challenges.
Core Centre Inc. provides assessment, consultation and counselling for children, youth and adults. Through our platform we provide online consultations, counselling and therapy with registered psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers. They can assist with a variety of issues, including: learning/academic struggles, behavioural difficulties, developmental delays, autism and relationship problems, among many other challenges.
(289) 277-6644 View (289) 277-6644
Photo of Natalia Oporska, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Natalia Oporska
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W  (Online Only)
As we know, challenging and difficult experiences have significant impacts on the quality of our lives, and they can also lead to meaningful change. It is important to me that you feel heard, supported, and empowered in this process. By cultivating a safe, non-judgmental, and individually tailored space, I hope to help you build healthy and authentic connections with yourself and others, help you uncover and understand emotional and behavioural patterns, underlying perceptions and beliefs, and help connect you to your emotions and body, so you can attain your goals and lead your most authentic life.
As we know, challenging and difficult experiences have significant impacts on the quality of our lives, and they can also lead to meaningful change. It is important to me that you feel heard, supported, and empowered in this process. By cultivating a safe, non-judgmental, and individually tailored space, I hope to help you build healthy and authentic connections with yourself and others, help you uncover and understand emotional and behavioural patterns, underlying perceptions and beliefs, and help connect you to your emotions and body, so you can attain your goals and lead your most authentic life.
(289) 207-6741 View (289) 207-6741
Photo of Sylwia Domanski, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Sylwia Domanski
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orangeville, ON L9W
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and I am currently offering in-person therapy, or fully online from anywhere in Ontario. I provide an eclectic, client-centered approach to counselling, using best-practices and various treatment methods on a highly individualized basis. I am trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Mindfulness Based practices, Solution Focused, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Somatic Modality. I also have a background working with individuals with dual diagnoses, including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Geriatric, Dementia and complex special needs.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist, and I am currently offering in-person therapy, or fully online from anywhere in Ontario. I provide an eclectic, client-centered approach to counselling, using best-practices and various treatment methods on a highly individualized basis. I am trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Mindfulness Based practices, Solution Focused, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Somatic Modality. I also have a background working with individuals with dual diagnoses, including Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Geriatric, Dementia and complex special needs.
(548) 800-1822 View (548) 800-1822
Photo of Monika Parsons, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Monika Parsons
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4W
If you are looking to create a deeper understanding of yourself, I would like to invite you into exploring psychotherapy. I work with youth and adults who are interested in becoming more of ‘their authentic self’, want to deepen their social-emotional-spiritual connection, and release any hurts, burdens, pains they have had to carry throughout their childhood and adolescence. If you are looking for ways to support your own well-being, manage stress and better understand your emotions/reactions, IFS can create that space for you to experience more harmony, clarity and direction.
If you are looking to create a deeper understanding of yourself, I would like to invite you into exploring psychotherapy. I work with youth and adults who are interested in becoming more of ‘their authentic self’, want to deepen their social-emotional-spiritual connection, and release any hurts, burdens, pains they have had to carry throughout their childhood and adolescence. If you are looking for ways to support your own well-being, manage stress and better understand your emotions/reactions, IFS can create that space for you to experience more harmony, clarity and direction.
(226) 640-4248 View (226) 640-4248
Photo of Aleksandra Drozd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Aleksandra Drozd
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6P  (Online Only)
We all struggle in invisible ways as our lives become inhibited by pressures and expectations of the day to day. We are often further debilitated by our less than perfect past, where old hurts and abandon influence our current choices. Most impacted are our relationships, our work, and our connection to the self. I believe therapy gives us the opportunity to both accept what was and is, and through growth orienting processes help us recreate ourselves into versions that feel more aligned with who we would like to become.
We all struggle in invisible ways as our lives become inhibited by pressures and expectations of the day to day. We are often further debilitated by our less than perfect past, where old hurts and abandon influence our current choices. Most impacted are our relationships, our work, and our connection to the self. I believe therapy gives us the opportunity to both accept what was and is, and through growth orienting processes help us recreate ourselves into versions that feel more aligned with who we would like to become.
(289) 206-8733 View (289) 206-8733
Photo of Renata Fulawka, RP, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Renata Fulawka
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Etobicoke, ON M8V
*** Accepting New Clients***. Life happens as we make plans! Do you wonder about your purpose and meaning in life? Are you tired of receiving the same outcomes or life challenges? Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, confused, overwhelmed or emotional tired? We assist clients who want to get to know themselves, identify triggers and patterns, regulate emotions, life changes or career counselling. In a safe space clients work on healing life’s wounds, traumas and to make sense out of chaos to create the life they want. We learn from the past - face the present to create a healthier future and live life ON purpose.
*** Accepting New Clients***. Life happens as we make plans! Do you wonder about your purpose and meaning in life? Are you tired of receiving the same outcomes or life challenges? Are you feeling stressed, anxious, depressed, confused, overwhelmed or emotional tired? We assist clients who want to get to know themselves, identify triggers and patterns, regulate emotions, life changes or career counselling. In a safe space clients work on healing life’s wounds, traumas and to make sense out of chaos to create the life they want. We learn from the past - face the present to create a healthier future and live life ON purpose.
(647) 695-9185 View (647) 695-9185

See more therapy options for Whitby

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.