Photo of Joe Zagame, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Joe Zagame
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CGP
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I run a Practice with therapists who are trained in relational therapies, specifically Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
I believe that mental and emotional suffering is best healed in the context of a safe and caring therapeutic relationship. Drawing on an emotion-focused and relational psychotherapy style, we see the client-therapist relationship as the foundation for healing and growth. My style is active and we will work collaboratively with you in order to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive atmosphere for us to explore past and present-day difficulties.
I run a Practice with therapists who are trained in relational therapies, specifically Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
I believe that mental and emotional suffering is best healed in the context of a safe and caring therapeutic relationship. Drawing on an emotion-focused and relational psychotherapy style, we see the client-therapist relationship as the foundation for healing and growth. My style is active and we will work collaboratively with you in order to create a safe, comfortable, and supportive atmosphere for us to explore past and present-day difficulties.
(917) 267-0799 View (917) 267-0799
Photo of Kristin Kolozian, Psychologist in 10010, NY
Kristin Kolozian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
As a Certified EFT couples therapist, I work with couples struggling with relationship challenges, such as intimacy and commitment issues, difficulty communicating, emotional disconnection, and infidelity.
The decision to begin psychotherapy is a courageous act. I admire those willing to begin a journey towards transformation, and I am honored to walk beside them in their pursuit for happier, more productive and successful lives. For individuals and couples, a psychotherapeutic experience is an opportunity to heal painful wounds, improve communication, increase awareness and insight into one's emotional life, and open oneself to new and better experiences. No matter the presenting problem, psychotherapy can be a deeply rewarding and life-altering experience. I am a clinical psychologist, who utilizes various techniques and interventions.
As a Certified EFT couples therapist, I work with couples struggling with relationship challenges, such as intimacy and commitment issues, difficulty communicating, emotional disconnection, and infidelity.
The decision to begin psychotherapy is a courageous act. I admire those willing to begin a journey towards transformation, and I am honored to walk beside them in their pursuit for happier, more productive and successful lives. For individuals and couples, a psychotherapeutic experience is an opportunity to heal painful wounds, improve communication, increase awareness and insight into one's emotional life, and open oneself to new and better experiences. No matter the presenting problem, psychotherapy can be a deeply rewarding and life-altering experience. I am a clinical psychologist, who utilizes various techniques and interventions.
(855) 842-1494 View (855) 842-1494
Photo of Amanda Adili, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Amanda Adili
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, SEP, KAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Waitlist for new clients
As a trauma therapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I help humans increase their bodily awareness about who they are, why they do the things they do, and who they would like to become. Having trained in Sex Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR, Art therapy, and Inner Relationship Focusing, I integrate these approaches in the gestalt. I work with people who experience difficulty accessing, connecting with, and verbalizing their feelings, as well as those with low self-esteem within their relationships. All humans can reach out to me, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, Sex+, CNM, and Kink folks are welcomed with an open heart.
As a trauma therapist and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I help humans increase their bodily awareness about who they are, why they do the things they do, and who they would like to become. Having trained in Sex Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR, Art therapy, and Inner Relationship Focusing, I integrate these approaches in the gestalt. I work with people who experience difficulty accessing, connecting with, and verbalizing their feelings, as well as those with low self-esteem within their relationships. All humans can reach out to me, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, Sex+, CNM, and Kink folks are welcomed with an open heart.
(347) 573-9684 View (347) 573-9684
Photo of Rachel R Pokorney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Rachel R Pokorney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I use the latest in evidence-based treatments, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapist (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and others to help you achieve your goals.
Not Accepting New Patients Until August 2024 I am an easy to relate to therapist who has an uncanny ability to balance warmth and validation with being genuine and direct. I will collaborate with you to determine the way of relating, therapeutic style, and specific therapy interventions that make you feel most comfortable and are the most successful. I will use my expert training and education, using a growth oriented approach, to help you recover from depression, manage anxiety, improve your relationships (work, family, friendships, and romantic), and cope with general life stressors.
I use the latest in evidence-based treatments, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapist (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), and others to help you achieve your goals.
Not Accepting New Patients Until August 2024 I am an easy to relate to therapist who has an uncanny ability to balance warmth and validation with being genuine and direct. I will collaborate with you to determine the way of relating, therapeutic style, and specific therapy interventions that make you feel most comfortable and are the most successful. I will use my expert training and education, using a growth oriented approach, to help you recover from depression, manage anxiety, improve your relationships (work, family, friendships, and romantic), and cope with general life stressors.
(332) 239-1655 View (332) 239-1655
Photo of Melissa Portan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Melissa Portan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and mindfulness.
I am a licensed sexologist specializing in sex &relationship therapy with SYNC Psychological Services. I work with couples/individuals on relationships, sex, and sexuality issues. Some focus areas include sexual trauma, infidelity & domestic violence recovery, feeling insecure in relationships/low self-esteem, sexual exploration (gender identity, Kink/BDSM, or polyamory/ethical non-monogamy), sexual performance issues (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low arousal, difficulty reaching orgasm), childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, & PTSD. I also have extensive experience working with individuals with ADHD & Autism.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, Attachment Therapy, and mindfulness.
I am a licensed sexologist specializing in sex &relationship therapy with SYNC Psychological Services. I work with couples/individuals on relationships, sex, and sexuality issues. Some focus areas include sexual trauma, infidelity & domestic violence recovery, feeling insecure in relationships/low self-esteem, sexual exploration (gender identity, Kink/BDSM, or polyamory/ethical non-monogamy), sexual performance issues (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low arousal, difficulty reaching orgasm), childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, & PTSD. I also have extensive experience working with individuals with ADHD & Autism.
(332) 455-1962 View (332) 455-1962
Photo of Jennifer Carlson, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Jennifer Carlson, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MSEd, SEP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I am trained and certified in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Self-Hypnosis, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a trained couples & sex therapist.
Welcome. I seek to provide individuals and couples with an engaging and collaborative process. Aspiring to be curious and supportive as you identify & explore uncomfortable feelings, discordant self-beliefs, or painful relational dynamics that are keeping you from having more meaningful, enlivened, and loving connections to yourself and others. Navigating together, we will address areas, that may include love, family dynamics, internal conflict, issues of health, work, friendship, school, trauma, addiction, & loss. With couples' areas of exploration sex/intimacy, premarital counselling, financial issues, betrayal & fertility.
I am trained and certified in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Self-Hypnosis, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a trained couples & sex therapist.
Welcome. I seek to provide individuals and couples with an engaging and collaborative process. Aspiring to be curious and supportive as you identify & explore uncomfortable feelings, discordant self-beliefs, or painful relational dynamics that are keeping you from having more meaningful, enlivened, and loving connections to yourself and others. Navigating together, we will address areas, that may include love, family dynamics, internal conflict, issues of health, work, friendship, school, trauma, addiction, & loss. With couples' areas of exploration sex/intimacy, premarital counselling, financial issues, betrayal & fertility.
(646) 846-9263 View (646) 846-9263
Photo of At Home Psychedelic Therapy (Instant Insurance Verification ), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
At Home Psychedelic Therapy (Instant Insurance Verification )
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MA, CPC, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Modalities include: EMDR, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, EFT, Transformational Life Coaching, Somatic Psychotherapy, Dreamwork, Shamanic Psychotherapy, & Energy Psychology.
The Feya Health Psychotherapists are all trained in cutting edge & depth oriented modalities that speed up the process of healing & integration in clients compared to traditional talk therapy. We hav been featured in the media as an expert therapists including on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms. An immersive process for clients who are looking for more sustainable shifts compared to traditional talk therapy.
Modalities include: EMDR, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, Clinical Hypnotherapy, EFT, Transformational Life Coaching, Somatic Psychotherapy, Dreamwork, Shamanic Psychotherapy, & Energy Psychology.
The Feya Health Psychotherapists are all trained in cutting edge & depth oriented modalities that speed up the process of healing & integration in clients compared to traditional talk therapy. We hav been featured in the media as an expert therapists including on MTV. Our Integrative approach helps clients address their self-destructive patterns by getting to the core and root of their issues. The result is a drastic reduction in the initial presenting symptoms. An immersive process for clients who are looking for more sustainable shifts compared to traditional talk therapy.
(201) 212-6646 View (201) 212-6646
Photo of Ace Oh in 10010, NY
Ace Oh
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
Few things are harder than struggling alone. You might be holding onto pain from your family, friends, or past relationships. Or it could feel like you're stuck inside a traumatic event that chains your life. It might feel like no one understands how deeply sad, intensely angry, or desperately helpless you feel. But you're not alone. Healing from trauma is not just a concept; it is an attainable reality. It would be an honor to be invited on your journey towards healing, reparation and building a life worth living. I believe the goal of therapy is not just to stop the suffering, but to create a sustained life of thriving and joy.
Few things are harder than struggling alone. You might be holding onto pain from your family, friends, or past relationships. Or it could feel like you're stuck inside a traumatic event that chains your life. It might feel like no one understands how deeply sad, intensely angry, or desperately helpless you feel. But you're not alone. Healing from trauma is not just a concept; it is an attainable reality. It would be an honor to be invited on your journey towards healing, reparation and building a life worth living. I believe the goal of therapy is not just to stop the suffering, but to create a sustained life of thriving and joy.
(347) 497-3013 View (347) 497-3013
Photo of Clarice Hassan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Clarice Hassan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
You are bright, but you often don't know what you want out of life. You find yourself sad, lonely, sometimes rageful, and often without love. You are not alone. I understand the desire for control, and to 'know what to do.' I understand the fear that nothing will change. But you can change, as many have, and I can help.
You are bright, but you often don't know what you want out of life. You find yourself sad, lonely, sometimes rageful, and often without love. You are not alone. I understand the desire for control, and to 'know what to do.' I understand the fear that nothing will change. But you can change, as many have, and I can help.
(551) 277-3687 View (551) 277-3687
Photo of Geunsaeng Ahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Geunsaeng Ahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MPH, CD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010  (Online Only)
I believe everyone has a story that needs to be shared. Therapy can be a space where we challenge how we relate to our stories as well as the one's we've been told by our families, cultures, and society. Therapy can also be a space where we reckon with the universal systems and histories of oppression that have impacted our stories, our ability to tell them, and how we feel they are received in the world. I provide support to those who are motivated towards greater understandings of their stories in order to heal the connections in their relationships with themselves and others.
I believe everyone has a story that needs to be shared. Therapy can be a space where we challenge how we relate to our stories as well as the one's we've been told by our families, cultures, and society. Therapy can also be a space where we reckon with the universal systems and histories of oppression that have impacted our stories, our ability to tell them, and how we feel they are received in the world. I provide support to those who are motivated towards greater understandings of their stories in order to heal the connections in their relationships with themselves and others.
(347) 539-4776 View (347) 539-4776
Photo of Lynn Suzanne Tress, Mental Health Counselor in 10010, NY
Lynn Suzanne Tress
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, PsyD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
The issues within my clients vary upon what they are attempting to resolve; such as; feeling overwhelmed by circumstances that they may not have much control over and wanting to learn healthier coping mechanism and strategies that support their individual path in life. It is my belief that my clients want inner peace and freedom from anxiety, depression, pain or addiction. From Covid Isolation syndrome to dealing with identity, race or cultural issues, the spectrum of concerns that are within my skill set with over two decades of experience, is what I offer, treating each person with an individualized plan specific to their needs.
The issues within my clients vary upon what they are attempting to resolve; such as; feeling overwhelmed by circumstances that they may not have much control over and wanting to learn healthier coping mechanism and strategies that support their individual path in life. It is my belief that my clients want inner peace and freedom from anxiety, depression, pain or addiction. From Covid Isolation syndrome to dealing with identity, race or cultural issues, the spectrum of concerns that are within my skill set with over two decades of experience, is what I offer, treating each person with an individualized plan specific to their needs.
(561) 532-1383 View (561) 532-1383
Photo of Randerson Cares: Therapy & Corporate Wellnes Consu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Randerson Cares: Therapy & Corporate Wellnes Consu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, JD, LCSW-R, ASWCM-G, CGCM
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Meet the amazing Dr. Randi, an experienced therapist and wellness coach with over 15 years of expertise in helping individuals balance their work, school, and personal lives. Her passion is empowering her clients with the tools, strategies, and support they need to overcome their obstacles both now and in the long term. Dr. Randi firmly believes in each client's power to heal from the inside out. She is dedicated to helping her clients discover their inner light, professional voice, and a sense of hope, regardless of their background.
Meet the amazing Dr. Randi, an experienced therapist and wellness coach with over 15 years of expertise in helping individuals balance their work, school, and personal lives. Her passion is empowering her clients with the tools, strategies, and support they need to overcome their obstacles both now and in the long term. Dr. Randi firmly believes in each client's power to heal from the inside out. She is dedicated to helping her clients discover their inner light, professional voice, and a sense of hope, regardless of their background.
(646) 699-3924 View (646) 699-3924
Photo of Aviva Braun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Aviva Braun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Aviva works with individuals to foster and establish a trusting and safe environment in order to have an honest exploration of each person’s feelings and experiences. Aviva uses psychodynamic and relational approaches to explore the unique experiences of each person.
Aviva works with individuals to foster and establish a trusting and safe environment in order to have an honest exploration of each person’s feelings and experiences. Aviva uses psychodynamic and relational approaches to explore the unique experiences of each person.
(332) 239-6345 View (332) 239-6345
Photo of Diane L Nadler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Diane L Nadler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, BCD, MSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I am available for in person and remote therapy. The decision to enter Psychotherapy is a courageous one. When you have tried everything you can think of to feel better emotionally, but nothing quite works, it can be disheartening. Fortunately, that's where the help of a Psychotherapist can come in. With determination and commitment to the therapy process, it is never too late for anyone to change and live a happier more fulfilled life. For the past 33 years I have been in Private Practice working with clients (adults 18 and older) to do just that, change their lives. What makes me a unique psychotherapist is discussed below.
I am available for in person and remote therapy. The decision to enter Psychotherapy is a courageous one. When you have tried everything you can think of to feel better emotionally, but nothing quite works, it can be disheartening. Fortunately, that's where the help of a Psychotherapist can come in. With determination and commitment to the therapy process, it is never too late for anyone to change and live a happier more fulfilled life. For the past 33 years I have been in Private Practice working with clients (adults 18 and older) to do just that, change their lives. What makes me a unique psychotherapist is discussed below.
(646) 807-4176 View (646) 807-4176
Photo of SteadyNYC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
SteadyNYC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
At SteadyNYC we believe that we all have the capacity to grow, change and heal. We are a trauma-informed and transformation-minded psychotherapy practice in the Flatiron District. We welcome all of you into your journey of self-discovery. We support you to explore your emotional experience; your thoughts and your behaviors that are holding you back from living the life you desire. Our therapists collaborate with you to identify the change(s) you are seeking and empower you with self-awareness, self-compassion and emotional tools to obtain a more fulfilling life experience.
At SteadyNYC we believe that we all have the capacity to grow, change and heal. We are a trauma-informed and transformation-minded psychotherapy practice in the Flatiron District. We welcome all of you into your journey of self-discovery. We support you to explore your emotional experience; your thoughts and your behaviors that are holding you back from living the life you desire. Our therapists collaborate with you to identify the change(s) you are seeking and empower you with self-awareness, self-compassion and emotional tools to obtain a more fulfilling life experience.
(917) 994-9061 View (917) 994-9061
Photo of Stacy D Hudak, Marriage & Family Therapist in 10010, NY
Stacy D Hudak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
You are about to take your first step forward toward growth, change and improving the quality of your life. Your decision to start therapy is a commitment to yourself. By exploring both the past and the present, you will recognize life patterns and dynamics which affect your relationships, career, and overall emotional and physical well-being. I believe each person is unique and do not utilize a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Rather, we will work collaboratively to create a safe, supportive environment that encourages honesty, authenticity, connection and directness. Together we establish the direction and pace of our work.
You are about to take your first step forward toward growth, change and improving the quality of your life. Your decision to start therapy is a commitment to yourself. By exploring both the past and the present, you will recognize life patterns and dynamics which affect your relationships, career, and overall emotional and physical well-being. I believe each person is unique and do not utilize a "one-size-fits-all" approach. Rather, we will work collaboratively to create a safe, supportive environment that encourages honesty, authenticity, connection and directness. Together we establish the direction and pace of our work.
(718) 550-3117 View (718) 550-3117
Photo of Alex Sullivan, Licensed Master Social Worker in 10010, NY
Alex Sullivan
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Friction between our internal reality and the external world is often a significant source of stress in our lives. Who we are is often the source of our greatest strengths, but it can also leave us feeling unseen or invalidated by the world around us. These experiences can lead to feeling unseen, invalidated, or threatened by our families, communities, or society as a whole. Depression, anxiety, and other feelings are the natural result. Despite this, our sense of self and our identities may guide us to developing our lives so they reflect the way we want to live.
Friction between our internal reality and the external world is often a significant source of stress in our lives. Who we are is often the source of our greatest strengths, but it can also leave us feeling unseen or invalidated by the world around us. These experiences can lead to feeling unseen, invalidated, or threatened by our families, communities, or society as a whole. Depression, anxiety, and other feelings are the natural result. Despite this, our sense of self and our identities may guide us to developing our lives so they reflect the way we want to live.
(718) 841-0461 View (718) 841-0461
Photo of Baiyu Chen, Licensed Psychoanalyst in 10010, NY
Baiyu Chen
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Before I came to New York, I was a lecturer in medical school and a neuroscientist. I was interested in the wonders of the brain from a scientist's point of view. My focus, over the last decade, has shifted from the brain to the mind. I think of psychoanalysis as a profound journey of understanding of oneself. Its purpose is to help people to understand feelings, behaviors, and habits that are troubling to them and to enrich their lives with new creativity, more fulfilling careers, and more meaningful relationships.
Before I came to New York, I was a lecturer in medical school and a neuroscientist. I was interested in the wonders of the brain from a scientist's point of view. My focus, over the last decade, has shifted from the brain to the mind. I think of psychoanalysis as a profound journey of understanding of oneself. Its purpose is to help people to understand feelings, behaviors, and habits that are troubling to them and to enrich their lives with new creativity, more fulfilling careers, and more meaningful relationships.
(646) 386-2301 View (646) 386-2301
Photo of Meredith Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Meredith Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Therapy is a collaboration toward your healing and self-exploration. Finding the right person who is attuned and able to respond to your needs is essential. My approach is, above all else, to be with you with thoughtful attention and curiosity. The ways we listen to you together will uncover your natural ability to nourish healthy aspects of the self, and transform wounded or stuck parts. These fragmentations often result in anxiety, depression, creative blocks, issues with self esteem or relationships. I also see couples with difficulties in conflict, communicating, and understanding the other.
Therapy is a collaboration toward your healing and self-exploration. Finding the right person who is attuned and able to respond to your needs is essential. My approach is, above all else, to be with you with thoughtful attention and curiosity. The ways we listen to you together will uncover your natural ability to nourish healthy aspects of the self, and transform wounded or stuck parts. These fragmentations often result in anxiety, depression, creative blocks, issues with self esteem or relationships. I also see couples with difficulties in conflict, communicating, and understanding the other.
(332) 877-9863 View (332) 877-9863
Photo of Julie Lichtstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 10010, NY
Julie Lichtstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Psychotherapy . . . a dynamic, interactive journey. I offer a safe, caring, professional environment in which we co-create a relationship essential for your healing and growth to occur naturally. With you, I undertake the opportunity to cultivate a supportive and trusting relationship. In my 30+ years as a therapist, I have come to know that it is the genuine connection between us that paves the way to successful, fulfilling therapy. I will help you to learn more about yourself, to understand why you do what you do and to uncover, strengthen and integrate the many aspects that make you authentically you.
Psychotherapy . . . a dynamic, interactive journey. I offer a safe, caring, professional environment in which we co-create a relationship essential for your healing and growth to occur naturally. With you, I undertake the opportunity to cultivate a supportive and trusting relationship. In my 30+ years as a therapist, I have come to know that it is the genuine connection between us that paves the way to successful, fulfilling therapy. I will help you to learn more about yourself, to understand why you do what you do and to uncover, strengthen and integrate the many aspects that make you authentically you.
(646) 490-0575 View (646) 490-0575
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.