Photo of Alein Haddad-Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Alein Haddad-Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SEP, NJ, NY
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
My advanced training in EMDR, SE, and EFT for Couples allow me to personalize the treatment plan to the client's unique needs.
Have you been in therapy for some time yet still feel stuck? Do you find yourself feeling disconnected from your body, your feelings, or the people you love? I believe that everyone has the capacity to live a happy and a fulfilling life, and I can help you get there. Regardless of how long you’ve been battling anxiety, depression, relational problems, trauma, or issues of self-esteem, I will accompany you in your healing journey with compassion and acceptance. As a trauma therapist, I rely on my knowledge of the neurobiology of trauma, Polyvagal , structural dissociation, and attachment theory to guide my interventions.
My advanced training in EMDR, SE, and EFT for Couples allow me to personalize the treatment plan to the client's unique needs.
Have you been in therapy for some time yet still feel stuck? Do you find yourself feeling disconnected from your body, your feelings, or the people you love? I believe that everyone has the capacity to live a happy and a fulfilling life, and I can help you get there. Regardless of how long you’ve been battling anxiety, depression, relational problems, trauma, or issues of self-esteem, I will accompany you in your healing journey with compassion and acceptance. As a trauma therapist, I rely on my knowledge of the neurobiology of trauma, Polyvagal , structural dissociation, and attachment theory to guide my interventions.
(862) 292-4844 View (862) 292-4844
Photo of Carol D Pauls, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Carol D Pauls
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I incorporate the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based, Psychodynamic, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR.
Therapy is a wonderful first step on your journey of discovery about yourself and your relationships. Therapy can be life changing. I am a hands-on active therapist who is not afraid to roll up my sleeves and get to work. I will seek to give you real, concrete takeaways in order to help jumpstart meaningful change. Whether it is focusing on painful feelings, trauma, relationships, difficult life transitions, creative blocks, stress, or healing from challenging life experiences, my goal is to help you discover the obstacles that block positive growth while building on your strengths.
I incorporate the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness-based, Psychodynamic, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR.
Therapy is a wonderful first step on your journey of discovery about yourself and your relationships. Therapy can be life changing. I am a hands-on active therapist who is not afraid to roll up my sleeves and get to work. I will seek to give you real, concrete takeaways in order to help jumpstart meaningful change. Whether it is focusing on painful feelings, trauma, relationships, difficult life transitions, creative blocks, stress, or healing from challenging life experiences, my goal is to help you discover the obstacles that block positive growth while building on your strengths.
(973) 434-5308 View (973) 434-5308
Photo of Angela DeCandia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Angela DeCandia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
EFT is backed by 25 years of research demonstrating effectiveness in helping couples and individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, illness, complicated grief and life transitions (job loss, break up, empty nest).
It can happen in any relationship. The day-to-day grind of work, school, family and other responsibilities can cause a loss of connection. What were once minor disagreements can become a source of ever-escalating conflict. Many couples find it difficult to break the cycle and get "unstuck." I can help you improve communication, regain physical intimacy, recover from and affair, understand how past experiences affect present difficulties, manage parenting / step-family challenges, build trust, prevent a divorce and get a good start with premarital counseling.
EFT is backed by 25 years of research demonstrating effectiveness in helping couples and individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, illness, complicated grief and life transitions (job loss, break up, empty nest).
It can happen in any relationship. The day-to-day grind of work, school, family and other responsibilities can cause a loss of connection. What were once minor disagreements can become a source of ever-escalating conflict. Many couples find it difficult to break the cycle and get "unstuck." I can help you improve communication, regain physical intimacy, recover from and affair, understand how past experiences affect present difficulties, manage parenting / step-family challenges, build trust, prevent a divorce and get a good start with premarital counseling.
(973) 828-0703 View (973) 828-0703
Photo of Sharon Rothbart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Sharon Rothbart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and EMDR while I incorporate a multitude of therapy modalities to meet your needs.
I will assist you in identifying your strengths, and to help you flourish. I appreciate people's complexities, and will help you formulate the best way to move toward your goals. I have experience supporting clients with anxieties, panic, trauma, depression, isolation, divorce, relationship and career issues, and the grief associated with illness or loss. I am an avid LGBTQ supporter and have a deep commitment to human rights and exploring the gender spectrum as part of a healthy journey in life. I also help parents understand, support and accept children who are in the process of questioning their gender.
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and EMDR while I incorporate a multitude of therapy modalities to meet your needs.
I will assist you in identifying your strengths, and to help you flourish. I appreciate people's complexities, and will help you formulate the best way to move toward your goals. I have experience supporting clients with anxieties, panic, trauma, depression, isolation, divorce, relationship and career issues, and the grief associated with illness or loss. I am an avid LGBTQ supporter and have a deep commitment to human rights and exploring the gender spectrum as part of a healthy journey in life. I also help parents understand, support and accept children who are in the process of questioning their gender.
(973) 888-1125 View (973) 888-1125
Photo of Andrea Rawicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Andrea Rawicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am an EFT-trained couples therapist (attachment-based emotionally focused therapy), EMDR-Certified, and completed an intensive internship in Structural Family Therapy.
I can, I'm capable, I have the capacity. My goal is to help you recognize these truths and use your strengths to improve your ability to cope with the difficulties you are going through. I view therapy as a collaborative process. Through our relationship, I will learn about your strengths and challenges and help bring you an awareness of both. We will also work on reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression or other roadblocks that are hurting your relationships or preventing you from achieving the things you aspire to. I'm interested in helping you challenge your negative assumptions and/or limitations about yourself.
I am an EFT-trained couples therapist (attachment-based emotionally focused therapy), EMDR-Certified, and completed an intensive internship in Structural Family Therapy.
I can, I'm capable, I have the capacity. My goal is to help you recognize these truths and use your strengths to improve your ability to cope with the difficulties you are going through. I view therapy as a collaborative process. Through our relationship, I will learn about your strengths and challenges and help bring you an awareness of both. We will also work on reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression or other roadblocks that are hurting your relationships or preventing you from achieving the things you aspire to. I'm interested in helping you challenge your negative assumptions and/or limitations about yourself.
(973) 287-3402 View (973) 287-3402
Photo of Faith Dunkel, Psychologist in 07042, NJ
Faith Dunkel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have undergone post-graduate training in Psychodynamic, Emotionally Focused, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy.
Every day we make choices, big and small. In doing so, we create our ever-unfolding life story. I work with my clients to better understand what their unique "storyline" has been about; how their "script" originally got written; and how their present life challenges can be opportunities for discovering hidden strengths. These strengths are very important, as they will serve my clients in their next life chapter.
I have undergone post-graduate training in Psychodynamic, Emotionally Focused, Internal Family Systems, and Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy.
Every day we make choices, big and small. In doing so, we create our ever-unfolding life story. I work with my clients to better understand what their unique "storyline" has been about; how their "script" originally got written; and how their present life challenges can be opportunities for discovering hidden strengths. These strengths are very important, as they will serve my clients in their next life chapter.
(973) 821-4803 View (973) 821-4803
Photo of Stacia Thiel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Stacia Thiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW NJ, LCSW NY
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I work in a therapeutically collaborative way utilizing my experience in psychotherapy, structural family therapy and trauma therapy while integrating my work and training in: Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, EFT, Yogic Studies, and the Creative Arts.
Whether you seek individual, couples or family therapy I believe the challenges and struggles we face can be a doorway toward personal growth and the peace of mind that accompanies a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. I offer a client centered approach to treatment with a focus on client strengths and our innate ability as human beings to heal, connect and find wholeness. Whether you are looking for support with a current issue, wish to work through experiences of the past, or you are feeling stuck and seek more meaning and purpose, we will work together through an integrative approach to assist you in meeting your goals.
I work in a therapeutically collaborative way utilizing my experience in psychotherapy, structural family therapy and trauma therapy while integrating my work and training in: Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT, EFT, Yogic Studies, and the Creative Arts.
Whether you seek individual, couples or family therapy I believe the challenges and struggles we face can be a doorway toward personal growth and the peace of mind that accompanies a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. I offer a client centered approach to treatment with a focus on client strengths and our innate ability as human beings to heal, connect and find wholeness. Whether you are looking for support with a current issue, wish to work through experiences of the past, or you are feeling stuck and seek more meaning and purpose, we will work together through an integrative approach to assist you in meeting your goals.
(973) 221-9026 View (973) 221-9026
Photo of Alissa Appel Jelveh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Alissa Appel Jelveh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a Columbia University-trained psychotherapist with over 13 years of experience. I believe that we begin to heal through relationships. I work with individuals to bring choice back to their lives. I also work with couples to find a new way of being together. My background is in working with adult and children trauma survivors. I have postgraduate training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I hold a three year postgraduate certificate in couples therapy. I am also trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples. I am the owner of the group practice, Manhattan Therapy (manhattantherapy.com).
I am a Columbia University-trained psychotherapist with over 13 years of experience. I believe that we begin to heal through relationships. I work with individuals to bring choice back to their lives. I also work with couples to find a new way of being together. My background is in working with adult and children trauma survivors. I have postgraduate training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I hold a three year postgraduate certificate in couples therapy. I am also trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples. I am the owner of the group practice, Manhattan Therapy (manhattantherapy.com).
(914) 687-5614 View (914) 687-5614
Photo of Robin S. Shimel, LCSW, Psychotherapy Svcs, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Robin S. Shimel, LCSW, Psychotherapy Svcs, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Incorporating a mindfulness based approach to Psychodynamic, Imago, EFT and CBT therapies enhances the effectiveness of the work.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, my enthusiasm for my work has only grown. I view my role as a facilitator, helping people discover individual strengths while becoming accepting and respectful of vulnerabilities. Learning healthy ways to survive major life crises and/or chronic conditions is also a focus. I teach effective communication skills to increase understanding and respect for differences while enhancing growth in connection. If asked about my greatest asset as a therapist, it is my ability to "listen," and to provide a safe place for exploration and resolution.
Incorporating a mindfulness based approach to Psychodynamic, Imago, EFT and CBT therapies enhances the effectiveness of the work.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, my enthusiasm for my work has only grown. I view my role as a facilitator, helping people discover individual strengths while becoming accepting and respectful of vulnerabilities. Learning healthy ways to survive major life crises and/or chronic conditions is also a focus. I teach effective communication skills to increase understanding and respect for differences while enhancing growth in connection. If asked about my greatest asset as a therapist, it is my ability to "listen," and to provide a safe place for exploration and resolution.
(973) 453-4637 View (973) 453-4637
Photo of Amy Palfrey, Psychologist in 07042, NJ
Amy Palfrey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in a variety of treatment modalities, including CBT, ACT, EFT, and mindfulness-based strategies.
Many of my clients come into treatment with clear goals, such as finding ways to cope with anxiety, improving the quality of their relationships, or shifting their patterns of disordered eating, whereas others may be less sure of their goals but know that something feels "off" in their life. Our work will start with a thorough assessment and exploratory goal setting to help identify our focus areas. We will then work collaboratively to identify interventions that are most effective for them, such as learning targeted coping skills, identifying and shifting interpersonal patterns, or increasing insight into thoughts and emotions.
I have extensive training in a variety of treatment modalities, including CBT, ACT, EFT, and mindfulness-based strategies.
Many of my clients come into treatment with clear goals, such as finding ways to cope with anxiety, improving the quality of their relationships, or shifting their patterns of disordered eating, whereas others may be less sure of their goals but know that something feels "off" in their life. Our work will start with a thorough assessment and exploratory goal setting to help identify our focus areas. We will then work collaboratively to identify interventions that are most effective for them, such as learning targeted coping skills, identifying and shifting interpersonal patterns, or increasing insight into thoughts and emotions.
(973) 576-5554 View (973) 576-5554
Photo of LaTasha Davis-Hodges, Marriage & Family Therapist in 07042, NJ
LaTasha Davis-Hodges
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, improving self-esteem, addressing and strengthening boundary setting and various other issues that lead to life struggles. I work to improve relationship issues, family conflict, and life changes with teens, adults, & couples.I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)and Emotionally Focused Therapy to make therapy a safe space to spark the healing you long for.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, improving self-esteem, addressing and strengthening boundary setting and various other issues that lead to life struggles. I work to improve relationship issues, family conflict, and life changes with teens, adults, & couples.I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)and Emotionally Focused Therapy to make therapy a safe space to spark the healing you long for.
(908) 341-1183 View (908) 341-1183
Photo of Dr. Tanya Llewellyn, Pre-Licensed Professional in 07042, NJ
Dr. Tanya Llewellyn
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am also experienced in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, an evidence-based model for helping couples interrupt negative emotional cycles and strengthen attachment bonds.
My practice is rooted in a core belief in the power and purpose of all human emotions. Our emotions are some of our most important tools for navigating the world. As children, we learn to adapt to our environments by finding resourceful ways of managing emotions that don’t feel safe. But sometimes, as adults, the same strategies that protected us in the past can actually contribute to our feeling stuck, empty, out of control, hopeless, or alone. I practice a kind of therapy called Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), which helps clients heal from emotional pain and recover their innate sense of agency and vitality.
I am also experienced in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, an evidence-based model for helping couples interrupt negative emotional cycles and strengthen attachment bonds.
My practice is rooted in a core belief in the power and purpose of all human emotions. Our emotions are some of our most important tools for navigating the world. As children, we learn to adapt to our environments by finding resourceful ways of managing emotions that don’t feel safe. But sometimes, as adults, the same strategies that protected us in the past can actually contribute to our feeling stuck, empty, out of control, hopeless, or alone. I practice a kind of therapy called Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), which helps clients heal from emotional pain and recover their innate sense of agency and vitality.
(332) 239-6191 View (332) 239-6191
Photo of Melissa Tihinen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Melissa Tihinen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have advanced training in psychoanalysis and am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples.
Therapy can be helpful for people in a variety of circumstances. Clients have reached out to me because they are going through a significant transition in their lives, because they are experiencing relationship challenges, or because they are having difficulty reaching their goals. Many clients also reach out because they have noticed patterns in how they relate to others that they feel are concerning.
I have advanced training in psychoanalysis and am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples.
Therapy can be helpful for people in a variety of circumstances. Clients have reached out to me because they are going through a significant transition in their lives, because they are experiencing relationship challenges, or because they are having difficulty reaching their goals. Many clients also reach out because they have noticed patterns in how they relate to others that they feel are concerning.
(646) 760-8343 View (646) 760-8343
Photo of Shirley Court Gonzalez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Shirley Court Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS, BCD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am trained in psychoanalytic, Emotionally Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
"I am a relationship counselor." I help individuals and couples to have a great relationship. You know how some people spend a lot of time trying to make a relationship work and often find themselves feeling disappointed. What I know is that it is possible to find and maintain a special relationship that is satisfying. What I do is to help individuals and couples develop the key strategies to improve communication and enhance skills toward conflict resolution and more intimacy.
I am trained in psychoanalytic, Emotionally Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
"I am a relationship counselor." I help individuals and couples to have a great relationship. You know how some people spend a lot of time trying to make a relationship work and often find themselves feeling disappointed. What I know is that it is possible to find and maintain a special relationship that is satisfying. What I do is to help individuals and couples develop the key strategies to improve communication and enhance skills toward conflict resolution and more intimacy.
(877) 755-4401 View (877) 755-4401
Photo of Meryl Weinman Dorf, Psychologist in 07042, NJ
Meryl Weinman Dorf
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Waitlist for new clients
I offer Individual psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and couples counseling from a variety of perspectives, including psychodynamic and EFT.
If you are struggling with feelings of depression, relationship issues, marital stress, job loss, anxiety, or other life challenges, feel free to contact me. I am a warm, respectful, experienced clinician who brings 30+ years of practice in consulting confidentially with a wide variety of people. You will find me to be open and caring and my office a safe and inviting place to talk. I am most effective with people who are thoughtful and willing to look inside themselves.
I offer Individual psychotherapy, psychoanalysis and couples counseling from a variety of perspectives, including psychodynamic and EFT.
If you are struggling with feelings of depression, relationship issues, marital stress, job loss, anxiety, or other life challenges, feel free to contact me. I am a warm, respectful, experienced clinician who brings 30+ years of practice in consulting confidentially with a wide variety of people. You will find me to be open and caring and my office a safe and inviting place to talk. I am most effective with people who are thoughtful and willing to look inside themselves.
(862) 324-7025 View (862) 324-7025
Photo of Bridging Bonds LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in 07042, NJ
Bridging Bonds LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Hi , I'm Yensy! I am a bilingual and able to provide therapy to both Spanish speaking couples, families and individuals as well as those who speak English. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with level 1 training on Gottman Method Couples Therapy; an evidenced based therapy that increases closeness and friendship behaviors while addressing conflict productively. I offer marriage, family and couples therapy as well as individual counseling.
Hi , I'm Yensy! I am a bilingual and able to provide therapy to both Spanish speaking couples, families and individuals as well as those who speak English. I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with level 1 training on Gottman Method Couples Therapy; an evidenced based therapy that increases closeness and friendship behaviors while addressing conflict productively. I offer marriage, family and couples therapy as well as individual counseling.
(862) 261-0215 View (862) 261-0215
Photo of Tri-Meta Counseling & Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in 07042, NJ
Tri-Meta Counseling & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
Tri-Meta proudly offers individual therapy, marital/couples' counseling, and family therapy. We believe that your story extends beyond the problems and issues you’re facing right now. We know how important it is to take your entire life experience and identity into account when helping you navigate through present struggles. We have worked to build a team of diverse, experienced, and dedicated therapists who are passionate about providing support to all individuals and communities. Each of our therapists has extensive training in systemic psychotherapy –
Tri-Meta proudly offers individual therapy, marital/couples' counseling, and family therapy. We believe that your story extends beyond the problems and issues you’re facing right now. We know how important it is to take your entire life experience and identity into account when helping you navigate through present struggles. We have worked to build a team of diverse, experienced, and dedicated therapists who are passionate about providing support to all individuals and communities. Each of our therapists has extensive training in systemic psychotherapy –
(973) 447-1493 View (973) 447-1493
Photo of Jennifer C Joseph, Psychologist in 07042, NJ
Jennifer C Joseph
Psychologist, PsyD, CGP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Talking helps. I’m committed to creating safe spaces for people to feel they can say anything. I work well with people whom are new to therapy or those whom have had therapy in the past and want to improve your life further. I will listen to feedback from you as we work together so that I can be the best therapist for you.
Talking helps. I’m committed to creating safe spaces for people to feel they can say anything. I work well with people whom are new to therapy or those whom have had therapy in the past and want to improve your life further. I will listen to feedback from you as we work together so that I can be the best therapist for you.
(201) 354-5409 View (201) 354-5409
Photo of Michael P. Lepak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 07042, NJ
Michael P. Lepak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, work issues, or relationship problems, I am here to help. I have many years of experience helping individuals and couples overcome the internal and external roadblocks that prevent them from living the life they want to lead. I can help you heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, a lack of intimacy and/or emotional connection, chronic arguing, low self-esteem and negative thought patterns. I am an empathic listener and help people identify and resolve underlying emotional patterns, thoughts, and behaviors that contribute to their current problems.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, work issues, or relationship problems, I am here to help. I have many years of experience helping individuals and couples overcome the internal and external roadblocks that prevent them from living the life they want to lead. I can help you heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, a lack of intimacy and/or emotional connection, chronic arguing, low self-esteem and negative thought patterns. I am an empathic listener and help people identify and resolve underlying emotional patterns, thoughts, and behaviors that contribute to their current problems.
(973) 380-0912 View (973) 380-0912
Photo of Derek Bacharach, Counselor in 07042, NJ
Derek Bacharach
Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
Sometimes life can be difficult to navigate. Are unhealthy habits getting in the way? Does the map you use to guide your life (and your relationships) need some adjusting or do you realize you want a new path? I can help you figure this out so you can have peace of mind, better management of your emotions, and be the best version of yourself.
Sometimes life can be difficult to navigate. Are unhealthy habits getting in the way? Does the map you use to guide your life (and your relationships) need some adjusting or do you realize you want a new path? I can help you figure this out so you can have peace of mind, better management of your emotions, and be the best version of yourself.
(973) 310-5317 View (973) 310-5317
Emotionally Focused Therapists

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.