Emotionally Focused Therapists in Pasadena, CA

Photo of Tsoline Kouyoumjian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Tsoline Kouyoumjian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I can help you too! I am certified in one of the most effective treatment approaches to couples therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
I see couples all the time who love each other desperately but just can’t seem to make it work. Some couples put it this way: “It’s like we keep having the same fight over and over again and nothing ever gets resolved. We just have a big fight, followed by silence, and then we just go back to our daily lives without ever working through the issues until the next fight happens. I don’t know what’s happening or why it’s happening but it’s just awful.”
I can help you too! I am certified in one of the most effective treatment approaches to couples therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
I see couples all the time who love each other desperately but just can’t seem to make it work. Some couples put it this way: “It’s like we keep having the same fight over and over again and nothing ever gets resolved. We just have a big fight, followed by silence, and then we just go back to our daily lives without ever working through the issues until the next fight happens. I don’t know what’s happening or why it’s happening but it’s just awful.”
(626) 788-5871 View (626) 788-5871
Photo of Sarah Rezak, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Sarah Rezak
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
Maybe you feel blocked at work, in a relationship, or creatively. Perhaps you are unsatisfied with an aspect of your life. If you are seeking a stronger connection to your true self, your body, or something else important to you, let's chat. My eclectic therapy approach works well with all types of people including: self-doubters, perfectionists, intimacy-fearfuls, existentially-unrested, procrastinators, relational dependents, trauma survivors, and more. I work holistically with individuals & couples to move through their various transitions, challenges, & mental health concerns.
Maybe you feel blocked at work, in a relationship, or creatively. Perhaps you are unsatisfied with an aspect of your life. If you are seeking a stronger connection to your true self, your body, or something else important to you, let's chat. My eclectic therapy approach works well with all types of people including: self-doubters, perfectionists, intimacy-fearfuls, existentially-unrested, procrastinators, relational dependents, trauma survivors, and more. I work holistically with individuals & couples to move through their various transitions, challenges, & mental health concerns.
(310) 504-5171 View (310) 504-5171
Photo of Katie Phillips-Rector, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Katie Phillips-Rector
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I utilize 10+ years of experience in working with children, teens, and families along with training in evidence-based approaches like Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I enjoy working with people of all ages facing various kinds of transition. Each new phase of life brings somewhat predictable changes, and then there are other changes that cause us to adapt and grow in somewhat unpredictable ways. Whatever you're facing, my goal is to work with you to find unique strengths and creative solutions that allow you to thrive in the midst of change.
I utilize 10+ years of experience in working with children, teens, and families along with training in evidence-based approaches like Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I enjoy working with people of all ages facing various kinds of transition. Each new phase of life brings somewhat predictable changes, and then there are other changes that cause us to adapt and grow in somewhat unpredictable ways. Whatever you're facing, my goal is to work with you to find unique strengths and creative solutions that allow you to thrive in the midst of change.
(626) 921-2709 View (626) 921-2709
Photo of Julie Hwang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Julie Hwang
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91102  (Online Only)
The therapy I provide is transparent, warm, emotionally focused, compassionate, and solution oriented. I have over 10+ years of clinical experience and worked in multiple settings over these years. Whether you have panic attacks, obsessions, or your partner is not giving you what you need, I offer the support and ears that you need to help process your emotions and thoughts. I am a therapist who not only will validate your emotions, but also give you the tools and skills based on my knowledge and expertise. I will be gentle and follow at your pace.
The therapy I provide is transparent, warm, emotionally focused, compassionate, and solution oriented. I have over 10+ years of clinical experience and worked in multiple settings over these years. Whether you have panic attacks, obsessions, or your partner is not giving you what you need, I offer the support and ears that you need to help process your emotions and thoughts. I am a therapist who not only will validate your emotions, but also give you the tools and skills based on my knowledge and expertise. I will be gentle and follow at your pace.
(323) 745-2809 View (323) 745-2809
Photo of Emily Ma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Emily Ma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
Waitlist for new clients
My practice focuses on delivering attachment-based therapy: Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment-Focused EMDR, and relational psychodynamic psychotherapy.
With curiosity and compassion, we'll explore how your mind works and understand how your experiences have shaped your relationships today. I support individuals and couples in witnessing and making sense of where they feel stuck in relationships and developing more connected relationships with themselves and others. As an Asian-American therapist, my clients appreciate my ability to integrate a culturally sensitive lens in understanding the interplay of cultural and familial dynamics. I also specialize in helping clients navigate grief and loss, and help clients become more comfortable with what shows up.
My practice focuses on delivering attachment-based therapy: Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment-Focused EMDR, and relational psychodynamic psychotherapy.
With curiosity and compassion, we'll explore how your mind works and understand how your experiences have shaped your relationships today. I support individuals and couples in witnessing and making sense of where they feel stuck in relationships and developing more connected relationships with themselves and others. As an Asian-American therapist, my clients appreciate my ability to integrate a culturally sensitive lens in understanding the interplay of cultural and familial dynamics. I also specialize in helping clients navigate grief and loss, and help clients become more comfortable with what shows up.
(310) 912-3465 View (310) 912-3465
Photo of Jennifer Duke Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Jennifer Duke Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
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 Robert B. Cornell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Robert B. Cornell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91104  (Online Only)
I use EFT ( tapping ) to help relieve old emotional charges.
Are you a spiritual person wanting psychotherapy that addresses all of who you are? Are you looking for healing painful past issues that keep surfacing? Do you suffer from childhood traumas that have been difficult to heal? Do you want to have better relationships, more meaningful work? Do you want a deeper spiritual life? I would be honored to be of service! I love working with clients that want an integrated psychotherapy that deals with mind, body, and spirit. APPLYING LOVING TO THE PLACES INSIDE THAT HURT LEADS TO HEALING!
I use EFT ( tapping ) to help relieve old emotional charges.
Are you a spiritual person wanting psychotherapy that addresses all of who you are? Are you looking for healing painful past issues that keep surfacing? Do you suffer from childhood traumas that have been difficult to heal? Do you want to have better relationships, more meaningful work? Do you want a deeper spiritual life? I would be honored to be of service! I love working with clients that want an integrated psychotherapy that deals with mind, body, and spirit. APPLYING LOVING TO THE PLACES INSIDE THAT HURT LEADS TO HEALING!
(626) 722-5235 x626991 View (626) 722-5235 x626991
Photo of Tanya Veluz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Tanya Veluz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
My style consists of Somatic work, trauma reprocessing and couples (PACT, Gottman, EFT) techniques.
I focus my work with couples, families and individuals to improve connection and secure functioning within relationships. I also work with mothers and fathers struggling with perinatal/postpartum symtpoms and parenting needs. During big life events we all need support, compassion, understanding, and sometimes guidance to return to feeling whole, connected, and allow joy back into our lives. Learning to care for yourself/partner/child and obtaining evidence based tools to improve your life is what you can gain working with me. My hope is to help you heal so you manage life's stressors and feel confident to face the world.
My style consists of Somatic work, trauma reprocessing and couples (PACT, Gottman, EFT) techniques.
I focus my work with couples, families and individuals to improve connection and secure functioning within relationships. I also work with mothers and fathers struggling with perinatal/postpartum symtpoms and parenting needs. During big life events we all need support, compassion, understanding, and sometimes guidance to return to feeling whole, connected, and allow joy back into our lives. Learning to care for yourself/partner/child and obtaining evidence based tools to improve your life is what you can gain working with me. My hope is to help you heal so you manage life's stressors and feel confident to face the world.
(818) 465-5559 View (818) 465-5559
Photo of Jen Kalusa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Jen Kalusa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
I also use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy to support your healing journey and help you build secure, meaningful connections.
Are you ready to heal from past traumas and have more fulfilling relationships? I specialize in guiding individuals through trauma healing, improving relationship health, self-discovery, and navigating complex emotions to achieve emotional well-being and cultivate meaningful connections. You have the strength within you to heal and thrive, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. Inspired by my own healing journey in therapy, I'm dedicated to guiding you towards wholeness and fulfillment in your life and relationships.
I also use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy to support your healing journey and help you build secure, meaningful connections.
Are you ready to heal from past traumas and have more fulfilling relationships? I specialize in guiding individuals through trauma healing, improving relationship health, self-discovery, and navigating complex emotions to achieve emotional well-being and cultivate meaningful connections. You have the strength within you to heal and thrive, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. Inspired by my own healing journey in therapy, I'm dedicated to guiding you towards wholeness and fulfillment in your life and relationships.
(626) 205-4587 View (626) 205-4587
Photo of Sylvia Mejia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Sylvia Mejia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105
Our therapists have been trained in several modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, ACT and more trauma based approaches.
Many of us are shaped by our experiences and aren't fully aware of the effects these experiences have in our everyday lives and relationships. We question our feelings, our thoughts and our reactions. But, they all tell a story. Our approach to treatment is attachment-based and client-centered. The emphasis is placed on exploring your values, experiences and what is important to you. Sometimes speaking to family and friends just isn't enough. We can help guide you through the process of knowing yourself and being able to understand, accept and express your emotions.
Our therapists have been trained in several modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, ACT and more trauma based approaches.
Many of us are shaped by our experiences and aren't fully aware of the effects these experiences have in our everyday lives and relationships. We question our feelings, our thoughts and our reactions. But, they all tell a story. Our approach to treatment is attachment-based and client-centered. The emphasis is placed on exploring your values, experiences and what is important to you. Sometimes speaking to family and friends just isn't enough. We can help guide you through the process of knowing yourself and being able to understand, accept and express your emotions.
(626) 240-1194 View (626) 240-1194
Photo of Jonathan Damiani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Jonathan Damiani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91103
In my work with couples, I use Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy to help couples identify and express deep longings in order to begin to reattach and heal relational wounds.
Author and psychologist Alice Miller once wrote, “Consciously experiencing our legitimate emotions is liberating. Repressed emotion can be resolved as soon as it is felt, understood, and recognized as legitimate.” Dr. Miller’s words capture my work as a psychotherapist. It is my hope to help my patients legitimately experience their complex emotional worlds in order to cultivate a rich and meaningful life. Although this is no easy task, I offer my partnership on this journey toward relief and healing, both internally and interpersonally.
In my work with couples, I use Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy to help couples identify and express deep longings in order to begin to reattach and heal relational wounds.
Author and psychologist Alice Miller once wrote, “Consciously experiencing our legitimate emotions is liberating. Repressed emotion can be resolved as soon as it is felt, understood, and recognized as legitimate.” Dr. Miller’s words capture my work as a psychotherapist. It is my hope to help my patients legitimately experience their complex emotional worlds in order to cultivate a rich and meaningful life. Although this is no easy task, I offer my partnership on this journey toward relief and healing, both internally and interpersonally.
(626) 638-2044 View (626) 638-2044
Photo of Sydney Burkhardt, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Sydney Burkhardt
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
I often incorporate, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Practices, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Welcome! Reaching out for support is one of the bravest step we can make. My clinical practice is devoted to working with teens, women, and parents. I specialize in work with individuals with past trauma experience, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, ADHD and ASD, women's health concerns, parenting challenges, self-harming behaviors, and behavioral challenges. While therapy is unique to each individual, it often includes increasing emotional awareness, processing unresolved trauma, healing attachment wounds, challenging unhelpful thoughts and patterns, and strengthening relationship bonds in order to heal and flourish.
I often incorporate, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Practices, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Welcome! Reaching out for support is one of the bravest step we can make. My clinical practice is devoted to working with teens, women, and parents. I specialize in work with individuals with past trauma experience, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, ADHD and ASD, women's health concerns, parenting challenges, self-harming behaviors, and behavioral challenges. While therapy is unique to each individual, it often includes increasing emotional awareness, processing unresolved trauma, healing attachment wounds, challenging unhelpful thoughts and patterns, and strengthening relationship bonds in order to heal and flourish.
(323) 970-3913 View (323) 970-3913
Photo of Mervin Maier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Mervin Maier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
I have a vast knowledge in areas of trauma, attachment, parenting, foster/adoption, depression, anxiety, ADHD, special education, spectrum disorders, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
We all need strong, healthy relationships for our personal, social, emotional growth and development. At times the pathway to building strong relationships can be perplexing and bewildering. My therapeutic approach provides a supportive, safe harbor that is both collaborative and non-judgmental. I will help families, couples, and individuals build robust, satisfying lives and deeply meaningful relationships.
I have a vast knowledge in areas of trauma, attachment, parenting, foster/adoption, depression, anxiety, ADHD, special education, spectrum disorders, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
We all need strong, healthy relationships for our personal, social, emotional growth and development. At times the pathway to building strong relationships can be perplexing and bewildering. My therapeutic approach provides a supportive, safe harbor that is both collaborative and non-judgmental. I will help families, couples, and individuals build robust, satisfying lives and deeply meaningful relationships.
(707) 271-9323 View (707) 271-9323
Photo of Elizabeth Shon, Psychologist in Pasadena, CA
Elizabeth Shon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106
I have previously worked as a staff psychologist at CSUN and Caltech and have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which enables me to work effectively with couples in distress.
I have had the privilege of working with adults and couples for over 37 years, helping with a wide range of issues including: depression, anxiety, self esteem, relationships, stress, ageing, family of origin issues, cross cultural issues, identity, grief/loss and mild addictions.
I have previously worked as a staff psychologist at CSUN and Caltech and have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which enables me to work effectively with couples in distress.
I have had the privilege of working with adults and couples for over 37 years, helping with a wide range of issues including: depression, anxiety, self esteem, relationships, stress, ageing, family of origin issues, cross cultural issues, identity, grief/loss and mild addictions.
(626) 671-4930 View (626) 671-4930
Photo of Alexa Enyart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Pasadena, CA
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method to resolve interpersonal conflicts, untangle the root of distressing emotions, and develop healthy communication patterns and boundaries.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method to resolve interpersonal conflicts, untangle the root of distressing emotions, and develop healthy communication patterns and boundaries.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
(626) 772-6578 View (626) 772-6578
Photo of Lauren Burke-Nicola, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Lauren Burke-Nicola
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91104
I am trained in couples and sex therapy, and I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, addiction, trauma, and anxiety.
I specialize in working with and supporting individuals facing challenging life transitions, anxiety, feelings of inadequacy, and difficulties with emotional connection, intimacy, and sexual issues. My goal is to help you identify and change unhealthy cycles that may be causing you to feel stuck. With a focus on respect, sensitivity, and expertise, I work to enhance your relationships, foster more meaningful connections, and improve your overall well-being.
I am trained in couples and sex therapy, and I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, addiction, trauma, and anxiety.
I specialize in working with and supporting individuals facing challenging life transitions, anxiety, feelings of inadequacy, and difficulties with emotional connection, intimacy, and sexual issues. My goal is to help you identify and change unhealthy cycles that may be causing you to feel stuck. With a focus on respect, sensitivity, and expertise, I work to enhance your relationships, foster more meaningful connections, and improve your overall well-being.
(323) 621-3036 View (323) 621-3036
Photo of Iihae Shin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Iihae Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Iihae (pronounced E-heh). I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and I have been in this field for over 27 years. I have worked with clients of all ages and from all walks of life. My special interest is in working with trauma. I have extensive training in various therapeutic modalities including Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Brainspotting, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM).
Hello. My name is Iihae (pronounced E-heh). I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and I have been in this field for over 27 years. I have worked with clients of all ages and from all walks of life. My special interest is in working with trauma. I have extensive training in various therapeutic modalities including Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Brainspotting, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM).
(626) 427-6360 View (626) 427-6360
Photo of Anne Crile, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Anne Crile
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91105  (Online Only)
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) — a research-validated approach to healing & strengthening couples’ relationships — and have Level II Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) training — a model of individual therapy that integrates what research tells us about human connection, emotion & the relationship between the two.
I am a California & Arizona licensed marriage and family therapist (CA 86294, AZ 15639). I specialize in working with couples & individuals navigating life-altering medical conditions; women overwhelmed in the face of work, family & personal pressure; and couples struggling to create or restore fulfilling connection.
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) — a research-validated approach to healing & strengthening couples’ relationships — and have Level II Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) training — a model of individual therapy that integrates what research tells us about human connection, emotion & the relationship between the two.
I am a California & Arizona licensed marriage and family therapist (CA 86294, AZ 15639). I specialize in working with couples & individuals navigating life-altering medical conditions; women overwhelmed in the face of work, family & personal pressure; and couples struggling to create or restore fulfilling connection.
(626) 269-2114 View (626) 269-2114
Photo of Sarah Jin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Sarah Jin, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy.
Hello, Welcome to Marriage Counseling for Asian American individuals and Cross-Cultural Couples! My focus is helping people develop deeper emotional bonding with their loved ones and build secure relationships. When we feel accepted, supported, loved, and understood by our partners and families, we can go out to the world and explore its possibilities. We cope better with life stresses, difficult life transitions, and simple daily challenges in safe, satisfying, and happy relationships.
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy.
Hello, Welcome to Marriage Counseling for Asian American individuals and Cross-Cultural Couples! My focus is helping people develop deeper emotional bonding with their loved ones and build secure relationships. When we feel accepted, supported, loved, and understood by our partners and families, we can go out to the world and explore its possibilities. We cope better with life stresses, difficult life transitions, and simple daily challenges in safe, satisfying, and happy relationships.
(626) 722-8936 View (626) 722-8936
Photo of Amber Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pasadena, CA
Amber Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106  (Online Only)
I specialize in couples therapy and supporting women. In my work with women I help create space where you can freely give yourself permission to be where you are and offer love and kindness to yourself. I will support you to step into a place of deeper authenticity and strength. Old patterns of thinking or ways of viewing the world may no longer be serving you but you can choose to hold space for what serves and say no thank you to what does not. In my couples work I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I also offer Brainspotting for both individuals and couples.
I specialize in couples therapy and supporting women. In my work with women I help create space where you can freely give yourself permission to be where you are and offer love and kindness to yourself. I will support you to step into a place of deeper authenticity and strength. Old patterns of thinking or ways of viewing the world may no longer be serving you but you can choose to hold space for what serves and say no thank you to what does not. In my couples work I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. I also offer Brainspotting for both individuals and couples.
(626) 774-7548 View (626) 774-7548
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.