Photo of Irit Broner, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Irit Broner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
I use evidence-based therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Emotional Focus Therapy (EFT).
Welcome, I am offering you a safe place to explore your thoughts and feelings and learn new ways to cope with life challenges. I am a bilingual therapist providing therapy in both English and Hebrew. I provide psychotherapy to individuals, families, couples, and children. My approach to therapy is humanistic based on empathy, acceptance, and collaboration.
I use evidence-based therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Emotional Focus Therapy (EFT).
Welcome, I am offering you a safe place to explore your thoughts and feelings and learn new ways to cope with life challenges. I am a bilingual therapist providing therapy in both English and Hebrew. I provide psychotherapy to individuals, families, couples, and children. My approach to therapy is humanistic based on empathy, acceptance, and collaboration.
(209) 340-9538 View (209) 340-9538
Photo of Kristen Barragan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Kristen Barragan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95135  (Online Only)
I use person centered, attachment theory and emotionally focused individual therapy with clients to get to the heart of the matter and encourage emotional vulnerability.
My therapeutic style is authentic and interactive. I love creating a safe space for my clients to process their thoughts, feelings, and emotions without shame or judgement. I provide empathy, support, psycho-education, encouragement and validate my clients feelings and unique life experiences. I work with my clients on healing from past trauma while making connections from their past to present thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I see my clients through an attachment lens and believe we all deserve and are wired for love and connection.
I use person centered, attachment theory and emotionally focused individual therapy with clients to get to the heart of the matter and encourage emotional vulnerability.
My therapeutic style is authentic and interactive. I love creating a safe space for my clients to process their thoughts, feelings, and emotions without shame or judgement. I provide empathy, support, psycho-education, encouragement and validate my clients feelings and unique life experiences. I work with my clients on healing from past trauma while making connections from their past to present thoughts, feelings and behaviors. I see my clients through an attachment lens and believe we all deserve and are wired for love and connection.
(408) 359-1767 View (408) 359-1767
Photo of LaToya Cheathon, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
LaToya Cheathon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95127
Hello. I am LaToya Cheathon, Licensed Marriage n Family Therapist. I specialize in working with couples on sex and relationship related concerns. I help couples with improving healthy communication, increasing intimacy and emotionally safety in the relationship, and supporting the growth of each partner as an individual by exploring patterns that are present in their life and relationships. I utilize Gottman Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness when working with my clients.
Hello. I am LaToya Cheathon, Licensed Marriage n Family Therapist. I specialize in working with couples on sex and relationship related concerns. I help couples with improving healthy communication, increasing intimacy and emotionally safety in the relationship, and supporting the growth of each partner as an individual by exploring patterns that are present in their life and relationships. I utilize Gottman Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness when working with my clients.
(408) 539-0010 View (408) 539-0010
Photo of Cheryl Heinla, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Cheryl Heinla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110
Hi there, I'm Cheryl Heinla and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) residing in the Bay Area. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, and couples. My key areas of interest and experience are anxiety, grief, couples dynamics, family of origin impact, life transitions, relational challenges, and trauma history. My approaches are based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-focused, short-term solution-focused; and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with couples.
Hi there, I'm Cheryl Heinla and I am a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) residing in the Bay Area. I work with adult individuals, adolescents, and couples. My key areas of interest and experience are anxiety, grief, couples dynamics, family of origin impact, life transitions, relational challenges, and trauma history. My approaches are based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-focused, short-term solution-focused; and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with couples.
(650) 629-0915 View (650) 629-0915
Photo of Anita Zoroghlian, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Anita Zoroghlian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
I like to help clients find their way to themselves, during times that are difficult, or life transitions. I work by collaborating with the client. We set goals together and we check in during each session to see if we are heading in the direction we set. We will focus on solutions, self-care, mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as the Somatic Experiencing approach, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. In addition, I like working with clients who may be in the sports world or who have a sports mentality and may seem stuck or on a plateau. I will help you move forward.
I like to help clients find their way to themselves, during times that are difficult, or life transitions. I work by collaborating with the client. We set goals together and we check in during each session to see if we are heading in the direction we set. We will focus on solutions, self-care, mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as the Somatic Experiencing approach, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. In addition, I like working with clients who may be in the sports world or who have a sports mentality and may seem stuck or on a plateau. I will help you move forward.
(415) 649-4218 View (415) 649-4218
Photo of Naomi Zelin, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in San Jose, CA
Naomi Zelin
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95120  (Online Only)
I expertly use tools from DBT, EFT, and somatic therapies, including EMDR and nervous system regulation.
Are you tired of feeling trapped in the same unhealthy relationship patterns, longing for meaningful connections but struggling to find them? The frustration and confusion can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Imagine finally breaking free from these cycles, feeling empowered and confident in your ability to communicate effectively and build genuine connections. Picture yourself experiencing a profound sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in your relationships, knowing that you have the tools to navigate challenges with grace and resilience.
I expertly use tools from DBT, EFT, and somatic therapies, including EMDR and nervous system regulation.
Are you tired of feeling trapped in the same unhealthy relationship patterns, longing for meaningful connections but struggling to find them? The frustration and confusion can be overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Imagine finally breaking free from these cycles, feeling empowered and confident in your ability to communicate effectively and build genuine connections. Picture yourself experiencing a profound sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in your relationships, knowing that you have the tools to navigate challenges with grace and resilience.
(310) 455-8161 View (310) 455-8161
Photo of Alexa Enyart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
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.
(650) 910-4282 View (650) 910-4282
Photo of Jaronda Session, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Jaronda Session
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95118
I’m Jaronda Session, MSW, LCSW, (DSW-Candidate) Licensed Psychotherapist based in Southern California (LCSW 29575) and licensed to practice in the State of Arizona (LCS 19020). Cocoa Cup Therapy Inc., my solo private practice was formed to help create a culturally sensitive/informed, emotionally focused therapeutic holding space for BIPOC communities, particularly Blacks and African Americans seeking therapy.
I’m Jaronda Session, MSW, LCSW, (DSW-Candidate) Licensed Psychotherapist based in Southern California (LCSW 29575) and licensed to practice in the State of Arizona (LCS 19020). Cocoa Cup Therapy Inc., my solo private practice was formed to help create a culturally sensitive/informed, emotionally focused therapeutic holding space for BIPOC communities, particularly Blacks and African Americans seeking therapy.
(661) 486-4066 View (661) 486-4066
Photo of Liz Dietrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Liz Dietrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR, Sex Therapy, EFT for Couples, and psychodynamic process groups, all from a relational, psychodynamic orientation.
I love working with clients who are curious about what more there is to experience in this life, who are ready to do the work of diving within in order to heal past wounds and create a life that they truly love. Sometimes trauma, relationship problems, work, or other life circumstances can result in our lives shrinking. We can become fearful or lose touch with what it is that we love, prioritizing other things. I'm committed to walking with you while you get back to yourself by processing all that you've been through.
I offer EMDR, Sex Therapy, EFT for Couples, and psychodynamic process groups, all from a relational, psychodynamic orientation.
I love working with clients who are curious about what more there is to experience in this life, who are ready to do the work of diving within in order to heal past wounds and create a life that they truly love. Sometimes trauma, relationship problems, work, or other life circumstances can result in our lives shrinking. We can become fearful or lose touch with what it is that we love, prioritizing other things. I'm committed to walking with you while you get back to yourself by processing all that you've been through.
(650) 405-0409 View (650) 405-0409
Photo of Lia Kozuki Huynh, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Lia Kozuki Huynh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112
I have training in EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy) which boasts a 75% success rate.
(Click on the "website" tab to watch my short 3-minute intro video!) My specialty is couples and individuals with relationship issues. Being in a relationship can be hard work and the stresses of career, children, in-laws, finances, chores, etc. don't make it any easier. Maybe you're feeling like you're having more conflict than love in your relationship and the communication is just not working. Or maybe you are fresh off of a breakup and wanting more clarity about what happened, or single wanting to work through some issues so you can be your best self for a future partner.
I have training in EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy) which boasts a 75% success rate.
(Click on the "website" tab to watch my short 3-minute intro video!) My specialty is couples and individuals with relationship issues. Being in a relationship can be hard work and the stresses of career, children, in-laws, finances, chores, etc. don't make it any easier. Maybe you're feeling like you're having more conflict than love in your relationship and the communication is just not working. Or maybe you are fresh off of a breakup and wanting more clarity about what happened, or single wanting to work through some issues so you can be your best self for a future partner.
(408) 868-5517 View (408) 868-5517
Photo of Hypnotherapy & Reiki @ Natural Health Center in San Jose, CA
Hypnotherapy & Reiki @ Natural Health Center
BS, CCHT, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95130
Seeking solutions that bring balance and calm in your life? I offer guided mind body healing therapies such as Hypnotherapy and EFT, that empower you to find solutions for the following issues: PAIN, INSOMNIA, GRIEF, WEIGHT, ANXIETY, STRESS, TRAUMA, HABITS, CRAVINGS, RELATIONSHIPS, or PAST LIVES. Hypnotherapy can be effective in building a bridge between the conscious mind and subconscious mind in order to explore the source and solutions of emotional, mental, and physical issues. This expanded state of consciousness allows for genuine realizations and the motivation to implement lasting transformations.
Seeking solutions that bring balance and calm in your life? I offer guided mind body healing therapies such as Hypnotherapy and EFT, that empower you to find solutions for the following issues: PAIN, INSOMNIA, GRIEF, WEIGHT, ANXIETY, STRESS, TRAUMA, HABITS, CRAVINGS, RELATIONSHIPS, or PAST LIVES. Hypnotherapy can be effective in building a bridge between the conscious mind and subconscious mind in order to explore the source and solutions of emotional, mental, and physical issues. This expanded state of consciousness allows for genuine realizations and the motivation to implement lasting transformations.
(408) 707-3142 View (408) 707-3142
Photo of Iris Cohen, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Iris Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
My focus is on easing your stress, worries, and challenges that you are facing. Together we will work on finding better ways to communicate at home and at work. I am offering tele-therapy through video and/or phone to all who want to be seen.I enjoy working with couples and individuals. When dealing with negative thoughts, I work on finding more coping thoughts, while using different approaches, such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), and family systems. With couples I often use EFT (emotional focus therapy). My therapy style is nurturing and empowering. Your happiness is my first priority!
My focus is on easing your stress, worries, and challenges that you are facing. Together we will work on finding better ways to communicate at home and at work. I am offering tele-therapy through video and/or phone to all who want to be seen.I enjoy working with couples and individuals. When dealing with negative thoughts, I work on finding more coping thoughts, while using different approaches, such as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), and family systems. With couples I often use EFT (emotional focus therapy). My therapy style is nurturing and empowering. Your happiness is my first priority!
(408) 637-5688 View (408) 637-5688
Photo of Cynthia Heier, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Cynthia Heier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95101
For couples I am trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy).
During this time of corona virus and shelter-in-place, it is common for people to struggle emotionally. Many of us feel distress with what is unknown; we are used to staying busy to avoid difficult feelings. Anxiety, depression, isolation, loneliness, relationship challenges, worries, fears, the inner critic, childhood memories, past failures, feeling helpless, among others, can all feel overwhelming. During this time our most vulnerable selves are exposed. What we often miss with a crisis, is the opportunity for growth that is possible. I am here to help you not only survive, but thrive.
For couples I am trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy).
During this time of corona virus and shelter-in-place, it is common for people to struggle emotionally. Many of us feel distress with what is unknown; we are used to staying busy to avoid difficult feelings. Anxiety, depression, isolation, loneliness, relationship challenges, worries, fears, the inner critic, childhood memories, past failures, feeling helpless, among others, can all feel overwhelming. During this time our most vulnerable selves are exposed. What we often miss with a crisis, is the opportunity for growth that is possible. I am here to help you not only survive, but thrive.
(831) 216-8879 View (831) 216-8879
Photo of Lisa Holden, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Lisa Holden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
I practice an integrated, trauma-Informed approach using evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, emotional freedom technique (EFT), neurolinguistic programming (NLP), and motivational interviewing.
Life presents unexpected challenges which can cause anxiety, depression, hopelessness, difficulties with relationships and problems with self esteem. These unresolved issues can derail us with feelings of being overwhelmed. Therapy can help you learn to manage trauma in order to deal with stressors and move through challenges with confidence so you can get back on track with your life.
I practice an integrated, trauma-Informed approach using evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, emotional freedom technique (EFT), neurolinguistic programming (NLP), and motivational interviewing.
Life presents unexpected challenges which can cause anxiety, depression, hopelessness, difficulties with relationships and problems with self esteem. These unresolved issues can derail us with feelings of being overwhelmed. Therapy can help you learn to manage trauma in order to deal with stressors and move through challenges with confidence so you can get back on track with your life.
(831) 387-6950 View (831) 387-6950
Photo of Lea Reyes | Relationships, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Lea Reyes | Relationships
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129  (Online Only)
I specialize in using a holistic approach that incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, mindfulness, and acceptance-based strategies.
Struggles in your relationship can be overwhelming and confusing where you're constantly arguing over small things and feel a growing distance as a couple. "How did things get to this point and how do I fix it?" I want you to know that I understand because I have been in your shoes. I know the pain and frustration that comes with feeling disconnected in a relationship.
I specialize in using a holistic approach that incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, mindfulness, and acceptance-based strategies.
Struggles in your relationship can be overwhelming and confusing where you're constantly arguing over small things and feel a growing distance as a couple. "How did things get to this point and how do I fix it?" I want you to know that I understand because I have been in your shoes. I know the pain and frustration that comes with feeling disconnected in a relationship.
(714) 276-6992 View (714) 276-6992
Photo of Yes To Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Yes To Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113
Therapists at Yes To Therapy offer many different specialties, including treating trauma (Brainspotting, IFS, and EMDR), couples (Gottman and EFT), art therapy, play therapy, CBT, DBT, and many more modalities.
At Yes To Therapy, we provide therapeutic services to a wide variety of ages, genders, cultures, and populations. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, welcoming environment for each and every client who walks through our doors. We have therapists that reflect an array of different genders, ethnic backgrounds, and specialties, as we aim to meet the needs of our clients and match each person with a therapist that truly feels like the right fit.
Therapists at Yes To Therapy offer many different specialties, including treating trauma (Brainspotting, IFS, and EMDR), couples (Gottman and EFT), art therapy, play therapy, CBT, DBT, and many more modalities.
At Yes To Therapy, we provide therapeutic services to a wide variety of ages, genders, cultures, and populations. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, welcoming environment for each and every client who walks through our doors. We have therapists that reflect an array of different genders, ethnic backgrounds, and specialties, as we aim to meet the needs of our clients and match each person with a therapist that truly feels like the right fit.
(408) 676-3309 View (408) 676-3309
Photo of Kelly Kazmierski, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Kelly Kazmierski
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
My work draws on cognitive-behavioral (CBT, ACT, DBT, CPT), emotion-focused (EFT), and couple/family (EFT, IBCT, Family Systems) approaches to treat depression, anxiety, trauma, emotion dysregulation, and relationship difficulties.
I'm a clinical psychologist serving individuals, couples, and families under stress. I work with individuals to help them change their relationships with painful emotions, develop new skills, make sense of difficult experiences, and build meaningful relationships. My work with couples and families focuses on interrupting destructive patterns and promoting more attuned connections. I particularly enjoy working with clients who want to build more fulfilling relationships and meaningful lives in the wake of major stress.
My work draws on cognitive-behavioral (CBT, ACT, DBT, CPT), emotion-focused (EFT), and couple/family (EFT, IBCT, Family Systems) approaches to treat depression, anxiety, trauma, emotion dysregulation, and relationship difficulties.
I'm a clinical psychologist serving individuals, couples, and families under stress. I work with individuals to help them change their relationships with painful emotions, develop new skills, make sense of difficult experiences, and build meaningful relationships. My work with couples and families focuses on interrupting destructive patterns and promoting more attuned connections. I particularly enjoy working with clients who want to build more fulfilling relationships and meaningful lives in the wake of major stress.
(714) 707-6032 View (714) 707-6032
Photo of Alejandra Mora Sanchez, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Alejandra Mora Sanchez
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95123
My name is Dr. Alejandra Mora-Sanchez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Los Angeles, California, working with individuals across the state through telehealth. I am a Hispanic female and provide therapy services fluently in both Spanish and English. I have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with depression, trauma, personal growth challenges, and relationship issues. I work with various treatment modalities including Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Emotionally Focused, in order to fit each client's needs.
My name is Dr. Alejandra Mora-Sanchez, I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Los Angeles, California, working with individuals across the state through telehealth. I am a Hispanic female and provide therapy services fluently in both Spanish and English. I have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with depression, trauma, personal growth challenges, and relationship issues. I work with various treatment modalities including Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Emotionally Focused, in order to fit each client's needs.
(714) 503-8799 View (714) 503-8799
Photo of Shadi Gholizadeh, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Shadi Gholizadeh
Psychologist, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95120
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, challenging life transitions, or new roles (e.g., caregiving, parenthood, breakups, juggling family and professional life). I often work with high-achieving individuals in demanding fields (e.g, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs) who are facing burnout and barriers to growth. I also have expertise working with family caregivers of loved ones with dementia or chronic illness. I have training in evidence-based therapies (CBT, ACT, EFT) for a wide range of problems.
I work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, challenging life transitions, or new roles (e.g., caregiving, parenthood, breakups, juggling family and professional life). I often work with high-achieving individuals in demanding fields (e.g, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs) who are facing burnout and barriers to growth. I also have expertise working with family caregivers of loved ones with dementia or chronic illness. I have training in evidence-based therapies (CBT, ACT, EFT) for a wide range of problems.
(949) 403-6803 View (949) 403-6803
Photo of Charlie Ruff, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Charlie Ruff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112
My name is Charlie Ruff (She, her). I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (38646) who sees individuals and couples via Telehealth. People often experience anxiety and depression regarding their relationships. I particularly enjoy helping my clients talk to themselves and their partners about their concerns in ways that help them de-escalate and create a secure bond. My approach with both individuals and couples is Emotionally Focused Therapy, an evidenced-based therapy for couples as evaluated by Division 12 of the American Psychological Association according to 1998 guidelines.
My name is Charlie Ruff (She, her). I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (38646) who sees individuals and couples via Telehealth. People often experience anxiety and depression regarding their relationships. I particularly enjoy helping my clients talk to themselves and their partners about their concerns in ways that help them de-escalate and create a secure bond. My approach with both individuals and couples is Emotionally Focused Therapy, an evidenced-based therapy for couples as evaluated by Division 12 of the American Psychological Association according to 1998 guidelines.
(707) 394-0220 View (707) 394-0220

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.