Emotionally Focused Therapists in Portola Valley, CA
Jia Rebecca Li
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, JD, CHT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028
I also use tools from Collaborative Couple Therapy, EFT, DBT and PACT.
I specialize in relationships, life transitions and grief/loss, with additional in-depth trainings to work effectively with couples and families. I work frequently with cultural, multigenerational and other systemic conflicts and traumas that can lead to or present as depression/anxiety, addiction, low self-esteem, relational conflicts, parenting challenges, career difficulties, etc. Prior to psychotherapy, I had a career with top law firms and investment bank which has helped me deeply appreciate the stress and complexity in the work/life dynamics facing many families, sometimes seemingly as a result of their very own success.
I also use tools from Collaborative Couple Therapy, EFT, DBT and PACT.
I specialize in relationships, life transitions and grief/loss, with additional in-depth trainings to work effectively with couples and families. I work frequently with cultural, multigenerational and other systemic conflicts and traumas that can lead to or present as depression/anxiety, addiction, low self-esteem, relational conflicts, parenting challenges, career difficulties, etc. Prior to psychotherapy, I had a career with top law firms and investment bank which has helped me deeply appreciate the stress and complexity in the work/life dynamics facing many families, sometimes seemingly as a result of their very own success.
Adela Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028 (Online Only)
COUPLES specialist here! Would you and your partner like to reconnect and stop ineffective communication patterns? Do you want to heal your emotional wounds and navigate mismatched values and desires? Or did you find out you are a NEURODIVERGENT couple facing unique challenges due to your different neurotypes? You deserve the chance to rebuild your relationship. You deserve to both give and receive love in a safe, healthy relationship. With the right guidance, you can uncover the inner resources you need to transform: internally and in the relationship dynamic.
COUPLES specialist here! Would you and your partner like to reconnect and stop ineffective communication patterns? Do you want to heal your emotional wounds and navigate mismatched values and desires? Or did you find out you are a NEURODIVERGENT couple facing unique challenges due to your different neurotypes? You deserve the chance to rebuild your relationship. You deserve to both give and receive love in a safe, healthy relationship. With the right guidance, you can uncover the inner resources you need to transform: internally and in the relationship dynamic.
Caleb Birkhoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028 (Online Only)
Do you have friction in your relationships? Do you need help enhance your connection or communication skills to set healthier and more effective boundaries? Or are you looking to get ahead of future problems before they start? It can be difficult making a change in your life, even one you want. Couples therapy is an opportunity to work on a relationship and your connection, to build something sustainable, or work to understand why it just doesn't feel like it's working anymore. It's an important place to strengthen boundaries, healthy communication, and re-establish a partnership. Come try couples counseling.
Do you have friction in your relationships? Do you need help enhance your connection or communication skills to set healthier and more effective boundaries? Or are you looking to get ahead of future problems before they start? It can be difficult making a change in your life, even one you want. Couples therapy is an opportunity to work on a relationship and your connection, to build something sustainable, or work to understand why it just doesn't feel like it's working anymore. It's an important place to strengthen boundaries, healthy communication, and re-establish a partnership. Come try couples counseling.
Araceli Pimentel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portola Valley, CA 94028 (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their feelings, communicate effectively, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, and marital/pre-marital issues.
Infidelity; Betrayal Trauma; Rebuild Trust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CPD-TS
Verified Verified
Portola Valley, CA 94028 (Online Only)
BRINK OF BREAKUP OR DIVORCE; INFIDELITY; PARTNER BETRAYAL; DECEPTION, LIES, SECRECY; NARCISSIST TRAITS; CODEPENDENCY; TOXIC LOVE ATTACHMENT: Can you bounce back and heal from partner infidelity or betrayal? Can you feel better and rebuild trust again? Can your relationship or marriage become stronger and more connected after the devastating discovery of infidelity and betrayal? ABSOLUTELY! Majority of relationships not only survive infidelity, but many relationships & marriages can become stronger and more intimate after undergoing infidelity couples counseling/coaching process with a competent couples therapist/counselor/coach.
BRINK OF BREAKUP OR DIVORCE; INFIDELITY; PARTNER BETRAYAL; DECEPTION, LIES, SECRECY; NARCISSIST TRAITS; CODEPENDENCY; TOXIC LOVE ATTACHMENT: Can you bounce back and heal from partner infidelity or betrayal? Can you feel better and rebuild trust again? Can your relationship or marriage become stronger and more connected after the devastating discovery of infidelity and betrayal? ABSOLUTELY! Majority of relationships not only survive infidelity, but many relationships & marriages can become stronger and more intimate after undergoing infidelity couples counseling/coaching process with a competent couples therapist/counselor/coach.
More Therapists Nearby
Sara Ruebelt, Ph.D, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94028
My approach is strength-based, collaborative, and evidence-based integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory.
My life’s work is to improve & understand human relationships, and to help others live a life of meaning and authenticity. I strive to build bridges of understanding between multiple realities and reframing perspectives. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I specialize in trauma, transitions, cross-cultural adjustment, personal or professional relationship difficulties, parenting, grief, and marital issues.
My approach is strength-based, collaborative, and evidence-based integrating theories from a family systems perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, & Attachment Theory.
My life’s work is to improve & understand human relationships, and to help others live a life of meaning and authenticity. I strive to build bridges of understanding between multiple realities and reframing perspectives. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I specialize in trauma, transitions, cross-cultural adjustment, personal or professional relationship difficulties, parenting, grief, and marital issues.
Susanne Ebert-Khosla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
For couples, I offer research and attachment based Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Life experiences shape who we are and influence how we see the world and people around us. Certain experiences can get in the way of us fulfilling our deepest longings, hopes and dreams, and of being the authentic, confident and happy person we always wanted to be. I work with a culturally diverse population of individuals and couples who may be struggling with interpersonal conflict, anxiety, anger, depression, panic, low self-esteem, procrastination, unexplained somatic symptoms, trauma, grief or loss. I am here to help you resolve the challenges that keep you stuck and make your life so miserable.
For couples, I offer research and attachment based Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Life experiences shape who we are and influence how we see the world and people around us. Certain experiences can get in the way of us fulfilling our deepest longings, hopes and dreams, and of being the authentic, confident and happy person we always wanted to be. I work with a culturally diverse population of individuals and couples who may be struggling with interpersonal conflict, anxiety, anger, depression, panic, low self-esteem, procrastination, unexplained somatic symptoms, trauma, grief or loss. I am here to help you resolve the challenges that keep you stuck and make your life so miserable.
Alexandra A. Bley
MS, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94043
I am trained and certified as a Clinical and Medical Hypnotist, EFT Practitioner and TRE (Tension and Trauma Release) Provider.
Are you looking for a new and different approach to healing? Do you feel like your mind "already knows" but you are still not FEELING better? The answer lies in your body. As much as your mind can't digest your food it can't resolve your emotions. The body plays an important role in the healing process. It serves as a visceral map to the subconscious mind. As you learn to access the wisdom of your body, emotions can begin to resolve on a deeper level, restoring health, harmony, and balance. Please allow me to teach you how...
I am trained and certified as a Clinical and Medical Hypnotist, EFT Practitioner and TRE (Tension and Trauma Release) Provider.
Are you looking for a new and different approach to healing? Do you feel like your mind "already knows" but you are still not FEELING better? The answer lies in your body. As much as your mind can't digest your food it can't resolve your emotions. The body plays an important role in the healing process. It serves as a visceral map to the subconscious mind. As you learn to access the wisdom of your body, emotions can begin to resolve on a deeper level, restoring health, harmony, and balance. Please allow me to teach you how...
Barbara Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301
Since 2008 I have been training in empirically validated Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I work best with individuals and couples who are interested in understanding how they got stuck and who want to develop skills and insights to move forward. Everyone gets stuck in their life or relationships at times. Perhaps there is job stress, a new baby, a divorce or break up, sexual/intimacy problems or a last child leaving home. Sometimes we know we are distressed but don't really know why. I strive to create a safe and accepting atmosphere in my office that enables people to be less reactive and more thoughtful and creative in addressing their conflicts.
Since 2008 I have been training in empirically validated Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I work best with individuals and couples who are interested in understanding how they got stuck and who want to develop skills and insights to move forward. Everyone gets stuck in their life or relationships at times. Perhaps there is job stress, a new baby, a divorce or break up, sexual/intimacy problems or a last child leaving home. Sometimes we know we are distressed but don't really know why. I strive to create a safe and accepting atmosphere in my office that enables people to be less reactive and more thoughtful and creative in addressing their conflicts.
Sarah Dunn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
I have advanced training in a variety of modalities such as Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness and Compassion-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
There are many things that draw us to therapy. Some arrive struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or career uncertainty. Others have difficulty managing the roller coaster of emotions inherent in the journey of becoming a parent, while some experience a more general or vague sense of distress. Whatever your goals and challenges, I welcome the opportunity to see whether I may be a good fit for your journey.
I have advanced training in a variety of modalities such as Psychoanalytic and Psychodynamic Therapy, Mindfulness and Compassion-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
There are many things that draw us to therapy. Some arrive struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or career uncertainty. Others have difficulty managing the roller coaster of emotions inherent in the journey of becoming a parent, while some experience a more general or vague sense of distress. Whatever your goals and challenges, I welcome the opportunity to see whether I may be a good fit for your journey.
Lauren Burke-Nicola
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027
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.
Ashley Smith Taggart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menlo Park, CA 94025
Evidence-based methods include Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy.
You’re considered to be quite successful in many areas of your life. Even though you know this is true, you don’t feel like you’re doing well at the moment. You’re smart, capable, and usually able to solve your problems, but trying to “fix” your emotional struggles just hasn’t worked. The demands of your work and personal life feel like they're just too much for you to handle right now. Your relationship with your partner might be a struggle. You may feel burned out.
Evidence-based methods include Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy.
You’re considered to be quite successful in many areas of your life. Even though you know this is true, you don’t feel like you’re doing well at the moment. You’re smart, capable, and usually able to solve your problems, but trying to “fix” your emotional struggles just hasn’t worked. The demands of your work and personal life feel like they're just too much for you to handle right now. Your relationship with your partner might be a struggle. You may feel burned out.
Amy C Friedman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
Older adolescents, adults & couples are all welcome to my practice. In collaboration with you, I will help guide and support you in attaining your therapy goals by understanding the patterns inhibiting your success, happiness and fulfillment. Together we will chart a therapeutic course specific to who you are and what your goals are. I invite feedback and make corrections as needed along the way. My framework is psychodynamic to which I bring training in other theories/techniques, including: Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness, CBT, attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), EMDR and trauma focused.
Older adolescents, adults & couples are all welcome to my practice. In collaboration with you, I will help guide and support you in attaining your therapy goals by understanding the patterns inhibiting your success, happiness and fulfillment. Together we will chart a therapeutic course specific to who you are and what your goals are. I invite feedback and make corrections as needed along the way. My framework is psychodynamic to which I bring training in other theories/techniques, including: Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness, CBT, attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), EMDR and trauma focused.
Emily Schiller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redwood City, CA 94063
Life can be challenging in the best of circumstances, and during the pandemic (and since then) we all know how much harder things became for so many people. Isolation. Frustration. Depression. Grief. Relationship conflict. Job stress. These stressors can be overwhelming for anyone. My therapeutic approach is flexible based on the needs of my clients. I frequently draw on clinical techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Attachment Therapy. I am also committed to helping couples navigate relationship difficulties using components of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and DBT.
Life can be challenging in the best of circumstances, and during the pandemic (and since then) we all know how much harder things became for so many people. Isolation. Frustration. Depression. Grief. Relationship conflict. Job stress. These stressors can be overwhelming for anyone. My therapeutic approach is flexible based on the needs of my clients. I frequently draw on clinical techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Attachment Therapy. I am also committed to helping couples navigate relationship difficulties using components of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and DBT.
Sutha Johnson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025 (Online Only)
Using my compassionate, open nature and training in empirically-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (including exposure treatments), mindfulness, and psychodynamic/EFT, I strive to closely and curiously listen to you and your lived experiences.
Hi there. In therapy with me, you can expect to slow down, express your whole self, feel understood, and collaboratively work through feelings of worry, stuck or on-edge, loneliness, sadness, fear or shame. Your therapy goals are central to how I tailor treatment. My expertise are working with adults focusing on generalized/social anxiety, perfectionism, OCD, and who want to strengthen an authentic relationship with self. I also specialize in processing trauma, specifically for sexual assault survivors, adults with history of childhood abuse, and traumatic grief.
Using my compassionate, open nature and training in empirically-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (including exposure treatments), mindfulness, and psychodynamic/EFT, I strive to closely and curiously listen to you and your lived experiences.
Hi there. In therapy with me, you can expect to slow down, express your whole self, feel understood, and collaboratively work through feelings of worry, stuck or on-edge, loneliness, sadness, fear or shame. Your therapy goals are central to how I tailor treatment. My expertise are working with adults focusing on generalized/social anxiety, perfectionism, OCD, and who want to strengthen an authentic relationship with self. I also specialize in processing trauma, specifically for sexual assault survivors, adults with history of childhood abuse, and traumatic grief.
Jennifer Mason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Redwood City, CA 94061
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of modalities such as CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and EFT in my practice.
Navigating life’s inherent difficulties can be challenging. Sometimes therapy can help. From confronting issues such as loss/grief, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal problems, to facing significant life decisions or struggling with marital/relationship concerns, many factors can prevent any of us from engaging in our lives more fully. Whether you are new to therapy or you're returning to work through a new or lingering issue, creating a safe place to explore, understand, and respond to your concerns is crucial. Utilizing warmth and transparency, I hope to cultivate a trusting partnership with you.
I use a variety of modalities such as CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, and EFT in my practice.
Navigating life’s inherent difficulties can be challenging. Sometimes therapy can help. From confronting issues such as loss/grief, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal problems, to facing significant life decisions or struggling with marital/relationship concerns, many factors can prevent any of us from engaging in our lives more fully. Whether you are new to therapy or you're returning to work through a new or lingering issue, creating a safe place to explore, understand, and respond to your concerns is crucial. Utilizing warmth and transparency, I hope to cultivate a trusting partnership with you.
Maren Jorgensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Atherton, CA 94027 (Online Only)
I use Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and attachment theory to build a framework, but am eclectic in nature-- meaning I use the approach that best suits your needs and is tailored to you as an individual.
Receiving therapy should no longer be a taboo. Confiding in others and receiving professional help is something we all do in many facets of our life. Most of us see a doctor or go get our car fixed when we have issues with our physical health or a tire is loose, so why not see a therapist to help improve our mental health? Therapy can also be preventative. Why wait before issues feel too far out of reach?
I use Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and attachment theory to build a framework, but am eclectic in nature-- meaning I use the approach that best suits your needs and is tailored to you as an individual.
Receiving therapy should no longer be a taboo. Confiding in others and receiving professional help is something we all do in many facets of our life. Most of us see a doctor or go get our car fixed when we have issues with our physical health or a tire is loose, so why not see a therapist to help improve our mental health? Therapy can also be preventative. Why wait before issues feel too far out of reach?
Merrill Powers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
I use a variety of methods to meet your needs, including EMDR; cognitive-behavioral therapy; Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples; and psychodynamic talk.
Worried? Anxious? Blue? Feelings can be the result of your situation,or they can be triggered by deeper issues such as attachment, trauma, and unprocessed memories. EMDR "turbocharges" the processing of painful memories. Adults, teens, and children with a history of abuse, trauma, and loss can heal quickly. I also specialize in resolving relationship issues and helping families become stronger. Whether you need help to navigate life transitions or to realize your full potential for emotional growth, therapy is a highly interactive process. Together we develop a plan for treatment involving care and commitment. Feel better!
I use a variety of methods to meet your needs, including EMDR; cognitive-behavioral therapy; Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples; and psychodynamic talk.
Worried? Anxious? Blue? Feelings can be the result of your situation,or they can be triggered by deeper issues such as attachment, trauma, and unprocessed memories. EMDR "turbocharges" the processing of painful memories. Adults, teens, and children with a history of abuse, trauma, and loss can heal quickly. I also specialize in resolving relationship issues and helping families become stronger. Whether you need help to navigate life transitions or to realize your full potential for emotional growth, therapy is a highly interactive process. Together we develop a plan for treatment involving care and commitment. Feel better!
Paul Kramer
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Menlo Park, CA 94025
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
With couples I often use Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Imago Relationship Therapy.
At some point we all struggle to adjustment to life's changes; it's normal to feel stuck and I believe people have what it takes to adjust. For the past 20 years, I have been working with children and teens who are struggling to balance the demands of school and their social life. I integrate parents in my work as much as possible. I also work with adults and Couples often come to me for help in distress and are confused about how or why their relationship has derailed. I am dedicated to helping people build stronger; more intimate relationships and I use several modalities when attempting to help couples in distress.
Alex Tsai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070 (Online Only)
I am also a certified Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) therapist through ICEEFT.
Thank you for being interested in my services. Living in the bay area, life can be hectic and stressful, and we all can benefit from empathetic and empowering support. Many circumstances may have brought you to the point where depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship difficulties have made it difficult for you to find the balance or direction in life. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals navigating through the challenges and attaining a fulfilling life. Together, we can ease your suffering, explore your concerns, and implement positive changes to meet your individualized needs.
I am also a certified Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) therapist through ICEEFT.
Thank you for being interested in my services. Living in the bay area, life can be hectic and stressful, and we all can benefit from empathetic and empowering support. Many circumstances may have brought you to the point where depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship difficulties have made it difficult for you to find the balance or direction in life. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals navigating through the challenges and attaining a fulfilling life. Together, we can ease your suffering, explore your concerns, and implement positive changes to meet your individualized needs.
See more therapy options for Portola Valley
Nearby Emotionally Focused Therapists Searches for Portola Valley
- Atherton
- Belmont
- Los Altos
- Los Altos Hills
- Menlo Park
- Mountain View
- Palo Alto
- Redwood City
- San Carlos
- Stanford
- Sunnyvale
- Woodside
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.