Photo of Georgina M. Nunez-Larraz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Georgina M. Nunez-Larraz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCHT, MSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I can help you access and process your trauma through EMDR, EFT, and NLP.
Hello, my name is Gina Nuñez. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist and a Complex PTSD therapist. Complex PTSD stems from trauma over a long period, i.e., child abuse/neglect. Trauma is a mental and physical imprint caused by extreme stress. Your fight, flight or freeze response is often activated if you live with trauma. Your body, mind, and emotions remain on high alert. When trauma goes untreated, it can lead to low self-esteem and a negative outlook on life, yourself, and others. I can help you overcome your negative past to build a positive future. My email page on the website stopped working, so email me.
I can help you access and process your trauma through EMDR, EFT, and NLP.
Hello, my name is Gina Nuñez. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist and a Complex PTSD therapist. Complex PTSD stems from trauma over a long period, i.e., child abuse/neglect. Trauma is a mental and physical imprint caused by extreme stress. Your fight, flight or freeze response is often activated if you live with trauma. Your body, mind, and emotions remain on high alert. When trauma goes untreated, it can lead to low self-esteem and a negative outlook on life, yourself, and others. I can help you overcome your negative past to build a positive future. My email page on the website stopped working, so email me.
(909) 340-3735 View (909) 340-3735
Photo of Teresa Lesko, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Teresa Lesko
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I have trained in AEDP, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EFT for couples, PACT (Psychobiological Approach To Couples Therapy) and Gestalt Awareness Practice.
I believe in the healing power of bearing witness to and participating in my clients' self-exploration. Whether we are exploring feelings, systems of oppression and their effects on us, patterns in relationships, or family of origin issues, the strength and compassion of an empathic partner in this journey can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and a relief in symptoms. I bring empathy and mindful curiosity to our work together.
I have trained in AEDP, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EFT for couples, PACT (Psychobiological Approach To Couples Therapy) and Gestalt Awareness Practice.
I believe in the healing power of bearing witness to and participating in my clients' self-exploration. Whether we are exploring feelings, systems of oppression and their effects on us, patterns in relationships, or family of origin issues, the strength and compassion of an empathic partner in this journey can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and a relief in symptoms. I bring empathy and mindful curiosity to our work together.
(510) 923-1082 View (510) 923-1082
Photo of Carmelinda Martin Mann, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Carmelinda Martin Mann
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I provide EMDR, EFT (tapping), and CBT to help you process those difficult experiences when appropriate.
I work with individuals, couples, parents, families and children to develop a therapeutic relationship based on their needs and goals. Through this process, clients get to know themselves better in a safe and supportive environment. I consider therapy a collaborative process that offers unique opportunities to manifest your ideal self through honesty and trust. I draw from the varied types of training and experience I have to find what works best for you and I create a safe space so you can explore the emotions that arise from difficult and painful experiences. I support couples and families in developing empathy, trust, and healthy
I provide EMDR, EFT (tapping), and CBT to help you process those difficult experiences when appropriate.
I work with individuals, couples, parents, families and children to develop a therapeutic relationship based on their needs and goals. Through this process, clients get to know themselves better in a safe and supportive environment. I consider therapy a collaborative process that offers unique opportunities to manifest your ideal self through honesty and trust. I draw from the varied types of training and experience I have to find what works best for you and I create a safe space so you can explore the emotions that arise from difficult and painful experiences. I support couples and families in developing empathy, trust, and healthy
(415) 683-0646 View (415) 683-0646
Photo of Caitlin Rose Marvaso, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Caitlin Rose Marvaso
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
Your body is always communicating information to you, and your emotions are the messenger. Maybe it's the consistent feeling of overwhelm, or the throws of depression. Maybe you are experiencing physical pain as a result of emotional pain. Whatever it is, I believe in the wisdom of your body and I want to help you become an expert at your own body language so that you can have more autonomy over your life.
Your body is always communicating information to you, and your emotions are the messenger. Maybe it's the consistent feeling of overwhelm, or the throws of depression. Maybe you are experiencing physical pain as a result of emotional pain. Whatever it is, I believe in the wisdom of your body and I want to help you become an expert at your own body language so that you can have more autonomy over your life.
(415) 366-1307 View (415) 366-1307
Photo of Maya Cheek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Maya Cheek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I use attachment focused EMDR, emotionally focused therapy, mindfulness and creative practices to help you access healing and support you in bringing your deep inner self into alignment with your truth.
Are you suffering from PTSD, anxiety and depression while struggling to make changes in your life that support your health and well-being? Have you been through something painful and traumatic and are having difficulty moving on or making meaning out of what happened? I completely understand how paralyzing these feelings and events can be and I would love to support you on your path to recovery. Trauma and painful life experiences can offer a profound opportunity to understand ourselves deeply while we learn how to heal, allowing us the possibility to transform our pain into fuel for the inevitable growth that follows.
I use attachment focused EMDR, emotionally focused therapy, mindfulness and creative practices to help you access healing and support you in bringing your deep inner self into alignment with your truth.
Are you suffering from PTSD, anxiety and depression while struggling to make changes in your life that support your health and well-being? Have you been through something painful and traumatic and are having difficulty moving on or making meaning out of what happened? I completely understand how paralyzing these feelings and events can be and I would love to support you on your path to recovery. Trauma and painful life experiences can offer a profound opportunity to understand ourselves deeply while we learn how to heal, allowing us the possibility to transform our pain into fuel for the inevitable growth that follows.
(341) 444-3940 View (341) 444-3940
Photo of Sonia Telle, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sonia Telle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602
Couples counseling and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy).
I strongly believe that the most healing aspect of therapy is directly related to the safe connection with the therapist. Trainings inform the therapy but only feeling safe and seen will provide the ground for deep exploration and emergence of the new... almost like a birthing process. Client based, my style is warm, compassionate, nonetheless, assertive. Experience and various trainings keep supporting the importance of breath, grounded presence and mindfulness in any therapeutic setting and healing/life process. Therefore, those are central to my work. My sessions combines several psychotherapy approaches together with various somatic practices such as bioenergetics, movement, mindfulness & trauma work.
Couples counseling and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy).
I strongly believe that the most healing aspect of therapy is directly related to the safe connection with the therapist. Trainings inform the therapy but only feeling safe and seen will provide the ground for deep exploration and emergence of the new... almost like a birthing process. Client based, my style is warm, compassionate, nonetheless, assertive. Experience and various trainings keep supporting the importance of breath, grounded presence and mindfulness in any therapeutic setting and healing/life process. Therefore, those are central to my work. My sessions combines several psychotherapy approaches together with various somatic practices such as bioenergetics, movement, mindfulness & trauma work.
(510) 788-2703 View (510) 788-2703
Photo of Mark Dombeck, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Mark Dombeck
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601
I draw from various therapy approaches including ACT, CBT, EFT, IFS and TIST to help you.
I’m Mark Dombeck, Ph.D, a trauma-informed licensed psychologist with 20+ years experience. I’m based in Alameda, CA, near Oakland, CA. I work with adults and seniors (not children), with individuals and couples, both in-person and online. I have three areas of specialization: 1) trauma & dissociation, 2) couples therapy, and 3) adult neurodiversity. I can help you address depression, anger, anxiety and shame issues, emotion-regulation and impulse control issues, executive functioning issues, interpersonal issues, relationship issues, personality issues, attachment issues and trauma issues.
I draw from various therapy approaches including ACT, CBT, EFT, IFS and TIST to help you.
I’m Mark Dombeck, Ph.D, a trauma-informed licensed psychologist with 20+ years experience. I’m based in Alameda, CA, near Oakland, CA. I work with adults and seniors (not children), with individuals and couples, both in-person and online. I have three areas of specialization: 1) trauma & dissociation, 2) couples therapy, and 3) adult neurodiversity. I can help you address depression, anger, anxiety and shame issues, emotion-regulation and impulse control issues, executive functioning issues, interpersonal issues, relationship issues, personality issues, attachment issues and trauma issues.
(510) 466-1424 View (510) 466-1424
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Kelly Bassin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Kelly Bassin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I am client centered and pull from attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, EFT, mindfulness, CBT and somatic approaches.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads or yearning for more? You may be at a breaking point or you may want to make some changes and you don't know where to start. I will ensure a safe and warm environment for exploration. We will move at a pace comfortable for you. Taking the leap of faith into therapy takes courage. We will engage in a process of empowerment to help you feel more centered & grounded in yourself. I work with individuals, couples, children, & families. I am here to listen, empathize & deepen your self-understanding . We will take a look at your inner longings and the parts of your life which may not be serving you.
I am client centered and pull from attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, EFT, mindfulness, CBT and somatic approaches.
Do you find yourself at a crossroads or yearning for more? You may be at a breaking point or you may want to make some changes and you don't know where to start. I will ensure a safe and warm environment for exploration. We will move at a pace comfortable for you. Taking the leap of faith into therapy takes courage. We will engage in a process of empowerment to help you feel more centered & grounded in yourself. I work with individuals, couples, children, & families. I am here to listen, empathize & deepen your self-understanding . We will take a look at your inner longings and the parts of your life which may not be serving you.
(209) 408-1547 View (209) 408-1547
Photo of Andrea Gonzalez-Guemes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Andrea Gonzalez-Guemes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618  (Online Only)
Things seem fine from the outside, you are successful in some areas of your life, but deep down you feel there is something missing. You feel anxious, depressed or empty, and there is a constant feeling of not fitting in. You notice frustrating patterns you continue to get stuck in and feel dissatisfied with where you are. In therapy you can talk freely and safely about how you feel. Through our work together you will understand your experience in relation to your personal history and everyday life, learn to manage difficult feelings and get the tools to address your needs. This will lead to long-lasting meaningful change.
Things seem fine from the outside, you are successful in some areas of your life, but deep down you feel there is something missing. You feel anxious, depressed or empty, and there is a constant feeling of not fitting in. You notice frustrating patterns you continue to get stuck in and feel dissatisfied with where you are. In therapy you can talk freely and safely about how you feel. Through our work together you will understand your experience in relation to your personal history and everyday life, learn to manage difficult feelings and get the tools to address your needs. This will lead to long-lasting meaningful change.
(628) 225-4873 View (628) 225-4873
Photo of Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, PCC, LMFT, IO, CGE, DTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
Concierge therapy offered in Palo Alto, Rockridge & SF locations. You decide on the day, time, location, in-person or online. This modality is for busy professionals/students who want to graduate psychotherapy fast. Sessions are fun and focused. Most clients can graduate from therapy within 3-6 months for life transition problems. For severe trauma and mental health cases, it can a little longer. Specializing in teens, couples and individuals struggling with trauma, abuse, substances abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, suicide, trust, abandonment, severe mental health and anger.
(415) 237-2282 View (415) 237-2282
Photo of Cristine Peterson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Cristine Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I work with individuals who have experienced trauma and are seeking relief through an integrative, relational, and somatic approach. Drawing on somatic techniques such as EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, I support my clients in connecting to the felt sense of their bodies as a source of information. I believe that a gentle inquiry into the body’s felt sense allows us to safely integrate the past into the present and clarify what’s true for us in any given moment.
I work with individuals who have experienced trauma and are seeking relief through an integrative, relational, and somatic approach. Drawing on somatic techniques such as EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, I support my clients in connecting to the felt sense of their bodies as a source of information. I believe that a gentle inquiry into the body’s felt sense allows us to safely integrate the past into the present and clarify what’s true for us in any given moment.
(510) 369-0989 View (510) 369-0989
Photo of Natasa Nordman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Natasa Nordman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, traumas that are single incident events such as car accidents, surgeries or that have occurred throughout ones childhood where they are experiencing physical or emotional symptoms now as a result. I love working with individuals who are looking on ways to feel supported to increase their own self worth in all areas of their life. My style is relational and collaborative and I believe that you are the expert in your own life. I can help support in creating change around what works best for you - I pride myself on meeting patients where they are comfortable.
I am passionate about working with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, traumas that are single incident events such as car accidents, surgeries or that have occurred throughout ones childhood where they are experiencing physical or emotional symptoms now as a result. I love working with individuals who are looking on ways to feel supported to increase their own self worth in all areas of their life. My style is relational and collaborative and I believe that you are the expert in your own life. I can help support in creating change around what works best for you - I pride myself on meeting patients where they are comfortable.
(925) 854-4473 View (925) 854-4473
Photo of Vivienne Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Vivienne Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Therapy is an opportunity to come home to yourself and expand your capacity for connection and vitality. My role is to be by your side as you examine parts of yourself that are difficult to face alone. I shine a warm light on experiences, emotions, and beliefs that have yet to be processed, and seek to expand upon sources of strength, expression, connection, and beauty. Whatever the areas of growth you bring to the therapeutic space, my priority is to hold an empathic, non-judgmental, inclusive space in which you feel safe and deeply seen.
Therapy is an opportunity to come home to yourself and expand your capacity for connection and vitality. My role is to be by your side as you examine parts of yourself that are difficult to face alone. I shine a warm light on experiences, emotions, and beliefs that have yet to be processed, and seek to expand upon sources of strength, expression, connection, and beauty. Whatever the areas of growth you bring to the therapeutic space, my priority is to hold an empathic, non-judgmental, inclusive space in which you feel safe and deeply seen.
(341) 444-2120 View (341) 444-2120
Photo of Stacy Donovan George, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Stacy Donovan George
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, depression or grief? Are you stuck in unhealthy patterns or self doubt? Is a difficult relationship causing you pain? You are taking a courageous step in caring for yourself and your well-being by seeking support. With curiosity and non-judgment, I can help you to find relief, grow and clarify a more sustainable, joyful path forward. Together we'll explore what underlies your symptoms, the adaptive function they serve, and how you can permanently heal core issues. You will discover strengths, develop new tools, and find serenity and authenticity in yourself and your relationships.
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, depression or grief? Are you stuck in unhealthy patterns or self doubt? Is a difficult relationship causing you pain? You are taking a courageous step in caring for yourself and your well-being by seeking support. With curiosity and non-judgment, I can help you to find relief, grow and clarify a more sustainable, joyful path forward. Together we'll explore what underlies your symptoms, the adaptive function they serve, and how you can permanently heal core issues. You will discover strengths, develop new tools, and find serenity and authenticity in yourself and your relationships.
(510) 314-8566 View (510) 314-8566
Photo of Neda Nguyen Baraghani, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Neda Nguyen Baraghani
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I am passionate about working with those who struggle with relationships and boundary setting, and clients who struggle with balancing differing sets of expectations due to cultural, physical, or mental factors. I also work with couples from differing backgrounds to deepen mutual understanding and couples struggling through a difficult phase in their relationship looking to increase communication and understanding. I work well with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, immigrant and first and second generation individuals and families, mixed race or multicultural individuals, and those who are struggling with chronic illness.
I am passionate about working with those who struggle with relationships and boundary setting, and clients who struggle with balancing differing sets of expectations due to cultural, physical, or mental factors. I also work with couples from differing backgrounds to deepen mutual understanding and couples struggling through a difficult phase in their relationship looking to increase communication and understanding. I work well with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, immigrant and first and second generation individuals and families, mixed race or multicultural individuals, and those who are struggling with chronic illness.
(510) 800-2874 View (510) 800-2874
Photo of Nanyonjo Mukungu, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Nanyonjo Mukungu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
My framework as a psychotherapist is inspired by black feminist sci-fi writer, Octavia E. Butler who saw the possibility of many more worlds than just our own. I believe that transformative internal healing is critical to envisioning and building these worlds without the presence of imperialism, white supremacy, capitalism and cishet-patriarchy. The tools I use to support the exploration of individual, interpersonal and intergenerational trauma are shaped by abolition that rejects punitive and scarcity mindsets and disability justice which strives to value every body.
My framework as a psychotherapist is inspired by black feminist sci-fi writer, Octavia E. Butler who saw the possibility of many more worlds than just our own. I believe that transformative internal healing is critical to envisioning and building these worlds without the presence of imperialism, white supremacy, capitalism and cishet-patriarchy. The tools I use to support the exploration of individual, interpersonal and intergenerational trauma are shaped by abolition that rejects punitive and scarcity mindsets and disability justice which strives to value every body.
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Photo of Ramilya Braithwaite, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ramilya Braithwaite
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
The transitioning process from insight to endurance, and to action is supported by daily courage, perseverance, curiosity, resilience, and a community of like-minded individuals. When tendered with love, care, attention, nurture, and patience, the time spent on the path of self-inquiry yields its marvelous and magical fruits of maturity, wisdom, creativity, joy, desire, courage, passion, ease, freedom, love, compassion, mindfulness, connection, community, and acceptance.
The transitioning process from insight to endurance, and to action is supported by daily courage, perseverance, curiosity, resilience, and a community of like-minded individuals. When tendered with love, care, attention, nurture, and patience, the time spent on the path of self-inquiry yields its marvelous and magical fruits of maturity, wisdom, creativity, joy, desire, courage, passion, ease, freedom, love, compassion, mindfulness, connection, community, and acceptance.
(510) 240-8116 View (510) 240-8116
Photo of Scott Silverstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Scott Silverstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94606
Seeking support can be difficult, especially if we become so accustomed to facing life's challenges alone. If we are able to reach out for support, taking that step can lead to real opportunities for growth and acceptance.
Seeking support can be difficult, especially if we become so accustomed to facing life's challenges alone. If we are able to reach out for support, taking that step can lead to real opportunities for growth and acceptance.
(415) 980-3475 View (415) 980-3475
Photo of Belinda Garcia Uriarte de Roehl, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Belinda Garcia Uriarte de Roehl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
Working in non profits and government services for 20 plus years both in San Francisco and Alameda County, has taught me the art of appreciating people for who they are, keeping an open mind and helping them see their own strength within. I am very excited to be in private practice. Working with couples , parents, and individuals. I am very curious and passionate about non traditional coupling, open relationships, polyamory, issues of infidelity and the sexual needs of couples and individuals. I believe that we can heal intuitively and I look forward to meeting people willing to share that journey with me.
Working in non profits and government services for 20 plus years both in San Francisco and Alameda County, has taught me the art of appreciating people for who they are, keeping an open mind and helping them see their own strength within. I am very excited to be in private practice. Working with couples , parents, and individuals. I am very curious and passionate about non traditional coupling, open relationships, polyamory, issues of infidelity and the sexual needs of couples and individuals. I believe that we can heal intuitively and I look forward to meeting people willing to share that journey with me.
(510) 216-1720 View (510) 216-1720
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.