Photo of Joleena Abrams in Phoenix, AZ
Joleena Abrams
CMEMI, CCTSA, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018  (Online Only)
She uses state of the art therapies, based off of the newest research, such as Hypnotherapy, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT model.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with an Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
She uses state of the art therapies, based off of the newest research, such as Hypnotherapy, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT model.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with an Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(619) 349-7159 View (619) 349-7159
Photo of Paula M. DeMore, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Paula M. DeMore
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, so I am trained in various modalities: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), CBT, ACT, DBT and mindfulness and meditation.
Life can definitely go sideways; I’m here to help you right what’s gone wrong. I’m probably not your typical therapist. I’m a lawyer, a mother and a mid-life divorce survivor. I’m transparent and a little unorthodox at times. You will never wonder if you are sitting with a real person. We will laugh, we may cry, and I won't mind if you drop an f-bomb or two. I will never judge you or presume to know more about you than you know yourself. Your story matters; I want to know how you show up in your life and how your history and experience coalesced to bring you here. I will not waste your time chatting; we have work to do.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy, so I am trained in various modalities: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), CBT, ACT, DBT and mindfulness and meditation.
Life can definitely go sideways; I’m here to help you right what’s gone wrong. I’m probably not your typical therapist. I’m a lawyer, a mother and a mid-life divorce survivor. I’m transparent and a little unorthodox at times. You will never wonder if you are sitting with a real person. We will laugh, we may cry, and I won't mind if you drop an f-bomb or two. I will never judge you or presume to know more about you than you know yourself. Your story matters; I want to know how you show up in your life and how your history and experience coalesced to bring you here. I will not waste your time chatting; we have work to do.
(602) 910-2059 View (602) 910-2059
Photo of Amy Rehm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Amy Rehm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I am currently only accepting clients for online therapy! You are the greatest project you will ever work on. Often times we make ourselves the last priority, but when you take the time to fill your own cup and heal from hurt and trauma, you free yourself up to experience peace. I am passionate about working with individuals & couples and creating a safe space for clients to be transparent and culture an environment for personal growth. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to therapy including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am currently only accepting clients for online therapy! You are the greatest project you will ever work on. Often times we make ourselves the last priority, but when you take the time to fill your own cup and heal from hurt and trauma, you free yourself up to experience peace. I am passionate about working with individuals & couples and creating a safe space for clients to be transparent and culture an environment for personal growth. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to therapy including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
(480) 462-7718 View (480) 462-7718
Photo of Doug Malm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Doug Malm
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I utilize treatment modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) for coping with trauma or internal conflicts, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I specialize in providing treatment for individuals experiencing difficulties including but not limited to: relationship or marital problems, codependency, depression, anxiety, trauma, problems with regulating emotions, eating disorders, physical pain, self-harming behaviors, OCD behaviors, and social phobias.
I utilize treatment modalities including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) for coping with trauma or internal conflicts, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I specialize in providing treatment for individuals experiencing difficulties including but not limited to: relationship or marital problems, codependency, depression, anxiety, trauma, problems with regulating emotions, eating disorders, physical pain, self-harming behaviors, OCD behaviors, and social phobias.
(480) 409-2454 View (480) 409-2454
Photo of Nicholette L. Aragon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Nicholette L. Aragon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I use a variety of treatment modalities, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral, and other Systemic approaches and tailor interventions to meet the needs of the individuals, couples and families that I serve.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and owner of Central Phoenix Counseling and Therapy. I have been working in field of mental and behavioral health for over 15 years, practicing therapy in both community and private practice settings, and worked as a clinical supervisor for other therapists working toward independent licensure in Arizona. I have been in private practice since 2015, during which time my focus has been to provide individuals, couples and families a safe, open environment where they have the space to heal, grow, and thrive across all areas of their lives.
I use a variety of treatment modalities, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral, and other Systemic approaches and tailor interventions to meet the needs of the individuals, couples and families that I serve.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and owner of Central Phoenix Counseling and Therapy. I have been working in field of mental and behavioral health for over 15 years, practicing therapy in both community and private practice settings, and worked as a clinical supervisor for other therapists working toward independent licensure in Arizona. I have been in private practice since 2015, during which time my focus has been to provide individuals, couples and families a safe, open environment where they have the space to heal, grow, and thrive across all areas of their lives.
(623) 300-1904 View (623) 300-1904
Photo of Cynthia D Berry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Cynthia D Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHI
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona and am receiving additional training in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) to further enhance the therapeutic process.
I am accepting new clients! My experience in the field has led me to understand that everyone is unique and comes to healing in their own ways. My role is to provide a safe and nurturing environment and assist individuals in understanding and achieving their goals during the therapeutic process.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona and am receiving additional training in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) to further enhance the therapeutic process.
I am accepting new clients! My experience in the field has led me to understand that everyone is unique and comes to healing in their own ways. My role is to provide a safe and nurturing environment and assist individuals in understanding and achieving their goals during the therapeutic process.
(623) 286-2699 View (623) 286-2699
Photo of Connected Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Connected Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
I have advanced EFT training and am a Christian.
Hi, I'm Anna! I am passionate about family and couple relationships! I am licensed in WA and AZ and specialize in relationship dynamics and neurodiversity. As a seasoned LMFT fully licensed since 2012, I have extensive experience working with youth, families, and couples with transitions, affected others of substance use, identity, personal growth, relationships, depression/anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, Autism, OCD, and school. I work from a neurodiverse affirming practice. My clients want a safe place to feel seen, known, understood, and connected with others. They also want practical tools to help them navigate life challenges.
I have advanced EFT training and am a Christian.
Hi, I'm Anna! I am passionate about family and couple relationships! I am licensed in WA and AZ and specialize in relationship dynamics and neurodiversity. As a seasoned LMFT fully licensed since 2012, I have extensive experience working with youth, families, and couples with transitions, affected others of substance use, identity, personal growth, relationships, depression/anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, Autism, OCD, and school. I work from a neurodiverse affirming practice. My clients want a safe place to feel seen, known, understood, and connected with others. They also want practical tools to help them navigate life challenges.
(480) 269-1494 View (480) 269-1494
Photo of Natalie Davis in Phoenix, AZ
Natalie Davis
LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Natalie is skillful in helping people achieve an improved quality of life through the use of therapeutic modalities, including such as CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, IFS, and EFT.
Natalie Davis, LCSW, is a licensed Clinical Social Worker. She completed her graduate degree in the field of social services at Arizona State University Phoenix. Natalie’s passion includes leading teams that provide patient-centered care and supporting individual clinicians as they pursue their career goals, including the pursuit of independent licensure. Natalie has developed clinical based treatment programs to meet the needs of those impacted by trauma, life transitions, anxiety, and depression as well as populations with co-occurring mental health concerns such as depression and substance abuse.
Natalie is skillful in helping people achieve an improved quality of life through the use of therapeutic modalities, including such as CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, IFS, and EFT.
Natalie Davis, LCSW, is a licensed Clinical Social Worker. She completed her graduate degree in the field of social services at Arizona State University Phoenix. Natalie’s passion includes leading teams that provide patient-centered care and supporting individual clinicians as they pursue their career goals, including the pursuit of independent licensure. Natalie has developed clinical based treatment programs to meet the needs of those impacted by trauma, life transitions, anxiety, and depression as well as populations with co-occurring mental health concerns such as depression and substance abuse.
(520) 666-6674 View (520) 666-6674
Photo of Judith Heckenlaible-Habig, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Judith Heckenlaible-Habig
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LISAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85023
Hello, I personally care for my clients. I specialize in individuals and couples who suffer from past trauma that has carried over into today's relationships, addictions and substance abuse. I integrate solution based therapy, CBT therapy with a Christian worldview. I am certified in EMDR and EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy). I work with first responders, professional leadership and other high profile people in my confidential office. I am excited to be Psychology Today Verified and active within the Focus on the Family Counselors network.
Hello, I personally care for my clients. I specialize in individuals and couples who suffer from past trauma that has carried over into today's relationships, addictions and substance abuse. I integrate solution based therapy, CBT therapy with a Christian worldview. I am certified in EMDR and EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy). I work with first responders, professional leadership and other high profile people in my confidential office. I am excited to be Psychology Today Verified and active within the Focus on the Family Counselors network.
(602) 223-1416 View (602) 223-1416
Photo of Jennifer Duke Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Jennifer Duke Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85032
For couples, I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and the Gottman method.
You deserve to be happy, and my goal is to get you there. Together we can explore the issues at hand and develop a plan that allows you to move forward, confidently. Do you feel like life has become unmanageable? Are you unsure of the next step? Do you feel like you and your partner are more like roommates instead of romantic partners?
For couples, I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and the Gottman method.
You deserve to be happy, and my goal is to get you there. Together we can explore the issues at hand and develop a plan that allows you to move forward, confidently. Do you feel like life has become unmanageable? Are you unsure of the next step? Do you feel like you and your partner are more like roommates instead of romantic partners?
(626) 317-8665 View (626) 317-8665
Photo of Naomi Berry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Naomi Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I have training in EMDR, IFS, EFT, CBT, SE, DBT and Solution Focused therapy.
I believe we all have the capacity to learn, grow, heal and create long-lasting change. We hold the innate ability to discover and realize our true potential and live an authentic life in line with our deepest values. I view therapy as a shared, supportive, compassionate journey that can help you tune into your authentic self, develop attainable goals and work toward sustainable, meaningful change. By holistically addressing and integrating mind, body and spirit, all kinds of challenges-depression, anxiety, divorce, stress, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, and trauma-can be better understood and overcome.
I have training in EMDR, IFS, EFT, CBT, SE, DBT and Solution Focused therapy.
I believe we all have the capacity to learn, grow, heal and create long-lasting change. We hold the innate ability to discover and realize our true potential and live an authentic life in line with our deepest values. I view therapy as a shared, supportive, compassionate journey that can help you tune into your authentic self, develop attainable goals and work toward sustainable, meaningful change. By holistically addressing and integrating mind, body and spirit, all kinds of challenges-depression, anxiety, divorce, stress, relationship issues, grief, life transitions, and trauma-can be better understood and overcome.
(480) 418-2138 View (480) 418-2138
Photo of Lisa Crist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Lisa Crist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
I also use Emotion-Focused therapy (EFT), for couples as well as individuals.
I consider it a great privilege to partner with you on your healing journey, no matter where in that journey you may be. I truly believe everyone has the capacity to heal from brokenness; no one is beyond the reach of healing. I strongly believe in a personalized approach to therapy as we develop a partnership to meet your needs. My greatest strength as a therapist is creating a strong relationship with you, a therapeutic relationship that respects and encourages you.
I also use Emotion-Focused therapy (EFT), for couples as well as individuals.
I consider it a great privilege to partner with you on your healing journey, no matter where in that journey you may be. I truly believe everyone has the capacity to heal from brokenness; no one is beyond the reach of healing. I strongly believe in a personalized approach to therapy as we develop a partnership to meet your needs. My greatest strength as a therapist is creating a strong relationship with you, a therapeutic relationship that respects and encourages you.
(623) 292-3952 View (623) 292-3952
Photo of Rahul Kondagunta Sivaprasad, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Rahul Kondagunta Sivaprasad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85032  (Online Only)
I do utilize a number of different tools, approaches, and techniques to help such as CBT, EFT, and DBT.
I know that therapy can often be a daunting process and finding the right therapist is not always easy. I bring nearly 14 years of therapeutic experience to help you achieve your goals in therapy.
I do utilize a number of different tools, approaches, and techniques to help such as CBT, EFT, and DBT.
I know that therapy can often be a daunting process and finding the right therapist is not always easy. I bring nearly 14 years of therapeutic experience to help you achieve your goals in therapy.
(520) 639-9894 View (520) 639-9894
Photo of Kelly Massey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Kelly Massey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85002  (Online Only)
Some seasons (or years) of life can leave us feeling stuck, disconnected, and fearful. Life can be devastatingly full of loss with little hope of recovery. I believe the best way to experience change and move towards recovery starts with acknowledging our unique strengths and resources - what are those things that keep us going? It also requires confronting the darker parts of life with a few trusted people. We are meant for connection. I would be honored to be a trusted person who walks towards healing with you. Are you open to exploring your own road of recovery with me?
Some seasons (or years) of life can leave us feeling stuck, disconnected, and fearful. Life can be devastatingly full of loss with little hope of recovery. I believe the best way to experience change and move towards recovery starts with acknowledging our unique strengths and resources - what are those things that keep us going? It also requires confronting the darker parts of life with a few trusted people. We are meant for connection. I would be honored to be a trusted person who walks towards healing with you. Are you open to exploring your own road of recovery with me?
(425) 517-1242 View (425) 517-1242
Photo of Angela Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Angela Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85015
Waitlist for new clients
As a meadows trained, sex therapist, and trauma specialist, I dive deeply into childhood issues helping you discover the root causes of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sex addiction, and dysfunctional relationship patterns (such as the love addicted/love avoidant pattern), and attachment styles. Learn about how to heal from toxic relationships, narcissistic partners, trauma and codependency. Learn about the root of dysfunctional thinking patterns and how trauma shapes how you attach to others, who you date and what you attract.
As a meadows trained, sex therapist, and trauma specialist, I dive deeply into childhood issues helping you discover the root causes of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, sex addiction, and dysfunctional relationship patterns (such as the love addicted/love avoidant pattern), and attachment styles. Learn about how to heal from toxic relationships, narcissistic partners, trauma and codependency. Learn about the root of dysfunctional thinking patterns and how trauma shapes how you attach to others, who you date and what you attract.
(602) 932-0976 View (602) 932-0976
Photo of James Heiskell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
James Heiskell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
My clients gain long lasting benefits from solution focus, DBT, and actualization principles, purposed to renew perspective, manage, behavior, and heighten cognition. We have 2,000 thoughts per day, and each one is capable of changing our circumstances for the better. Why wait? Individuals "want to feel better now, not some time in the distant future." Tap into your natural resources for dynamic change. Use this opportunity to forge a new path, establish a new partnership, and change the environment to meet your needs.
My clients gain long lasting benefits from solution focus, DBT, and actualization principles, purposed to renew perspective, manage, behavior, and heighten cognition. We have 2,000 thoughts per day, and each one is capable of changing our circumstances for the better. Why wait? Individuals "want to feel better now, not some time in the distant future." Tap into your natural resources for dynamic change. Use this opportunity to forge a new path, establish a new partnership, and change the environment to meet your needs.
(480) 725-2796 View (480) 725-2796
Photo of Janis N Davila, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Janis N Davila
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003  (Online Only)
Welcome to your safe space, I'm glad you're here! I have a strong passion for the counseling profession, as well as a desire to empower and advocate for every single client. I am a counselor who supports clients in overcoming their challenges. As a counselor, it is my role to assist clients towards meeting their goals while also providing an encouraging environment while we work together. Clients can express themselves freely while I ensure every counseling session is a safe space and place for them. As a counselor, I strive to build the best client and counselor relationship possible.
Welcome to your safe space, I'm glad you're here! I have a strong passion for the counseling profession, as well as a desire to empower and advocate for every single client. I am a counselor who supports clients in overcoming their challenges. As a counselor, it is my role to assist clients towards meeting their goals while also providing an encouraging environment while we work together. Clients can express themselves freely while I ensure every counseling session is a safe space and place for them. As a counselor, I strive to build the best client and counselor relationship possible.
(602) 780-0475 View (602) 780-0475
Photo of Allison Duquette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Allison Duquette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
My view on therapy is very simple, though not always easy: 'through relationships, we heal’. Many of the barriers that inhibit healthy relationships include negative self-talk, fear of judgement, and our need to maintain a sense of control, especially when we are deeply hurt or wounded. Trauma does not discriminate and it does not wait for an opportune time to present, but we can make sense of it and heal old wounds that hold us back from really connecting with those we love.
My view on therapy is very simple, though not always easy: 'through relationships, we heal’. Many of the barriers that inhibit healthy relationships include negative self-talk, fear of judgement, and our need to maintain a sense of control, especially when we are deeply hurt or wounded. Trauma does not discriminate and it does not wait for an opportune time to present, but we can make sense of it and heal old wounds that hold us back from really connecting with those we love.
(602) 362-4942 View (602) 362-4942
Photo of Dr. Melissa Estavillo, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Melissa Estavillo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Dr. Melissa Estavillo is a Licensed Psychologist and founder of Biltmore Psychology and Counseling. At BPC we do not view people as broken and damaged, but on a journey to become the best versions of themselves. Though some nights may be dark, we believe in hope for the future and the tenacity of the human spirit. Our job is to journey with people through difficult times and provide the guidance needed to achieve something far greater than the average. We can’t promise that it will always be easy, but we believe that it is worth it and know you will too.
Dr. Melissa Estavillo is a Licensed Psychologist and founder of Biltmore Psychology and Counseling. At BPC we do not view people as broken and damaged, but on a journey to become the best versions of themselves. Though some nights may be dark, we believe in hope for the future and the tenacity of the human spirit. Our job is to journey with people through difficult times and provide the guidance needed to achieve something far greater than the average. We can’t promise that it will always be easy, but we believe that it is worth it and know you will too.
(480) 525-8386 View (480) 525-8386
Photo of Rochelle Le Roy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Rochelle Le Roy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85027
It is my belief that counseling is one of the most overlooked and underutilized tools to finding healing from life and gaining a clearer picture of our true selves. Having personally experienced loss and tragedy to get here, I have been blessed first-hand through how trained professionals can help each of us find our ways past such obstacles and into emotional clarity and improved mental health. Additionally, I have worked for years as a pediatric speech therapist, specializing in helping children with disabilities and different abilities to master the skills necessary to succeed. I have served for many years as a Christian-
It is my belief that counseling is one of the most overlooked and underutilized tools to finding healing from life and gaining a clearer picture of our true selves. Having personally experienced loss and tragedy to get here, I have been blessed first-hand through how trained professionals can help each of us find our ways past such obstacles and into emotional clarity and improved mental health. Additionally, I have worked for years as a pediatric speech therapist, specializing in helping children with disabilities and different abilities to master the skills necessary to succeed. I have served for many years as a Christian-
(480) 660-3272 View (480) 660-3272
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.