Photo of Julie Zeff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Julie Zeff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306  (Online Only)
Using approaches like Attachment-Based, Emotionally Focused (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), & Gottman Therapies, I help couples learn to communicate, to know each other intimately, and to infuse trust and connection in their relationship.
When you’re struggling, as a couple or individually, it can feel overwhelming, lonely and sometimes downright debilitating. Do you get stuck in the same, old patterns, worry about the future, regret or re-live the past? Do you wonder if you can ever truly, be happy? Do you think that, “relationships and life are just hard”. It doesn’t HAVE to be this way! As a therapist whose been working in the field for over 25 years I’ve guided both individuals and couples to grow, change and live lives they love, over and over!
Using approaches like Attachment-Based, Emotionally Focused (EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), & Gottman Therapies, I help couples learn to communicate, to know each other intimately, and to infuse trust and connection in their relationship.
When you’re struggling, as a couple or individually, it can feel overwhelming, lonely and sometimes downright debilitating. Do you get stuck in the same, old patterns, worry about the future, regret or re-live the past? Do you wonder if you can ever truly, be happy? Do you think that, “relationships and life are just hard”. It doesn’t HAVE to be this way! As a therapist whose been working in the field for over 25 years I’ve guided both individuals and couples to grow, change and live lives they love, over and over!
(470) 768-8361 View (470) 768-8361
Photo of Metta Sweet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Metta Sweet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30329
Depending on client interest and need, my work with clients may also include and draw from: psychotherapeutic/spiritual exploration, shadow work, meditation/visualization, EMDR, EFT, energy psychology, personality drive integration (using a tool called the Enneagram).
Whether you are facing life challenges such as relationship problems, addiction, work concerns, or health issues, you can move through with more elegance and ease. To me therapy is a gift--a gift of opportunity. An opportunity to heal from the past by increasing understanding of it and gleaning from it the gems that it holds. An opportunity to break long-held rigid patterns born of that past and to start consciously creating new, flexible ones. An opportunity to hold hope for a future free from the past that makes the present a time of freedom and choice.
Depending on client interest and need, my work with clients may also include and draw from: psychotherapeutic/spiritual exploration, shadow work, meditation/visualization, EMDR, EFT, energy psychology, personality drive integration (using a tool called the Enneagram).
Whether you are facing life challenges such as relationship problems, addiction, work concerns, or health issues, you can move through with more elegance and ease. To me therapy is a gift--a gift of opportunity. An opportunity to heal from the past by increasing understanding of it and gleaning from it the gems that it holds. An opportunity to break long-held rigid patterns born of that past and to start consciously creating new, flexible ones. An opportunity to hold hope for a future free from the past that makes the present a time of freedom and choice.
(404) 566-9249 View (404) 566-9249
Photo of Oshetha L Shakoor-Rivera, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Oshetha L Shakoor-Rivera
Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305  (Online Only)
My integrated approach consists of EFT, CBT, DBT, attachment based therapy, IFS, Humanistic and structural techniques to name a few.
Are you ready to integrate loving kindness and compassion into the relationship you have with yourself and others? This may seem an impossible healing for those who have endured relational betrayal, death, loss, hurt or trauma. However, shifting focus towards meaning, resilience, and possibility can liberate you from your past and present suffering. What does this mean for you and your loved ones? It means here is an invitation to sit with a non-judgmental human being while you recover, connect, and heal in new ways. It means you may shed old roles, affirm new strengths, and learn others with vulnerability and without guard.
My integrated approach consists of EFT, CBT, DBT, attachment based therapy, IFS, Humanistic and structural techniques to name a few.
Are you ready to integrate loving kindness and compassion into the relationship you have with yourself and others? This may seem an impossible healing for those who have endured relational betrayal, death, loss, hurt or trauma. However, shifting focus towards meaning, resilience, and possibility can liberate you from your past and present suffering. What does this mean for you and your loved ones? It means here is an invitation to sit with a non-judgmental human being while you recover, connect, and heal in new ways. It means you may shed old roles, affirm new strengths, and learn others with vulnerability and without guard.
(678) 940-8805 View (678) 940-8805
Photo of Victoria Griffin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Victoria Griffin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CCTP, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
My practice offers specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Attachment Therapy, Mindset Coaching, with expertise in trauma, relationships, and empowerment.
The journey to wholeness and intimacy is not always an easy path but it is one that can rebuild confidence, repair trust and intimacy, and create transformational growth. Having someone who is compassionate, affirming, and experienced in healing, restoration, and transformation can lead to healing, deeper intimacy, and authentic self and relationships.
My practice offers specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Attachment Therapy, Mindset Coaching, with expertise in trauma, relationships, and empowerment.
The journey to wholeness and intimacy is not always an easy path but it is one that can rebuild confidence, repair trust and intimacy, and create transformational growth. Having someone who is compassionate, affirming, and experienced in healing, restoration, and transformation can lead to healing, deeper intimacy, and authentic self and relationships.
(678) 276-8037 View (678) 276-8037
Photo of CWC Coaching and Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
CWC Coaching and Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30305
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples experiencing distress in their relationship.
My clients are individuals and couples who want to change their lives through a targeted and transformational coaching experience. I work with highly motivated, intraspective, and hard working people. I coach individuals/couples who are seeking to make changes in their relationships, improve their self-esteem, manage their stress and anxiety, or conquer an addiction. In addition, I work with individuals who are seeking to turbo charge their careers and lives through mindfulness techniques and empowerment coaching. Corporate clients include The Coca-Cola Company and Clark-Atlanta University.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples experiencing distress in their relationship.
My clients are individuals and couples who want to change their lives through a targeted and transformational coaching experience. I work with highly motivated, intraspective, and hard working people. I coach individuals/couples who are seeking to make changes in their relationships, improve their self-esteem, manage their stress and anxiety, or conquer an addiction. In addition, I work with individuals who are seeking to turbo charge their careers and lives through mindfulness techniques and empowerment coaching. Corporate clients include The Coca-Cola Company and Clark-Atlanta University.
(404) 982-4085 View (404) 982-4085
Photo of Lynn E Reid, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Lynn E Reid
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30342
Tools include NLP (Neuro-linguistic Programming), EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), Enneagram, Mind Body Healing and Cognitive/Emotive/Behavioral approaches.
My commitment is to facilitate your growth and healing in a supportive and collaborative relationship designed to meet your unique needs. As a seasoned therapist I listen and seek to understand your world using technical skills as well as the wisdom and intuitive knowing that I bring from over four decades of experience in private practice and agency settings. I have a passion for my work and I function with compassion and caring. I continue to pursue learning and skill building including cutting edge research on the brain and tools to generate healing and change.
Tools include NLP (Neuro-linguistic Programming), EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), Enneagram, Mind Body Healing and Cognitive/Emotive/Behavioral approaches.
My commitment is to facilitate your growth and healing in a supportive and collaborative relationship designed to meet your unique needs. As a seasoned therapist I listen and seek to understand your world using technical skills as well as the wisdom and intuitive knowing that I bring from over four decades of experience in private practice and agency settings. I have a passion for my work and I function with compassion and caring. I continue to pursue learning and skill building including cutting edge research on the brain and tools to generate healing and change.
(404) 334-4827 View (404) 334-4827
Photo of Dennis P Buttimer in Atlanta, GA
Dennis P Buttimer
MEd, CEAP, RYT, CHC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30324
I utilize EFT/EMDR also to help clients release fear and negative patterns.
If you are struggling with stress, worry/anxiety/fear, health and wellness issues, cancer diagnosis/recovery, grief, life changes, workplace challenges, relationship issues or personal growth, I am here to support and guide you in feeling your best and performing at your best. My Master's degree is in Counseling Psychology. As a Coach of forty (40) years, I have learned strategies that tend to create lasting changes. My commitment to you is to listen non-judgmentally and guide you with ideas and practices that I have seen work successfully over many years. You deserve to feel your best and live at your best!
I utilize EFT/EMDR also to help clients release fear and negative patterns.
If you are struggling with stress, worry/anxiety/fear, health and wellness issues, cancer diagnosis/recovery, grief, life changes, workplace challenges, relationship issues or personal growth, I am here to support and guide you in feeling your best and performing at your best. My Master's degree is in Counseling Psychology. As a Coach of forty (40) years, I have learned strategies that tend to create lasting changes. My commitment to you is to listen non-judgmentally and guide you with ideas and practices that I have seen work successfully over many years. You deserve to feel your best and live at your best!
(404) 476-7933 View (404) 476-7933
Photo of April Hinrichsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
April Hinrichsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
She has specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
April is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 14 years of experience. I specialize in supporting relationships. I work with couples feeling disconnected/unheard and longing for a change. I walk along side each partner to understand where and why you keep getting stuck (ie having the same, repetitive argument). I will teach you how to exit those patterns and gain the skills to hear each other in those moments. With individuals, April specializes in: Young adult issues/ life transitions, Mood regulation (Anxiety and Depression), Self-esteem/Identify development, Perfectionism/ Burn out, Poor/ineffective boundaries with
She has specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
April is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 14 years of experience. I specialize in supporting relationships. I work with couples feeling disconnected/unheard and longing for a change. I walk along side each partner to understand where and why you keep getting stuck (ie having the same, repetitive argument). I will teach you how to exit those patterns and gain the skills to hear each other in those moments. With individuals, April specializes in: Young adult issues/ life transitions, Mood regulation (Anxiety and Depression), Self-esteem/Identify development, Perfectionism/ Burn out, Poor/ineffective boundaries with
(619) 431-4223 View (619) 431-4223
Photo of Freedom's Flow Pllc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Freedom's Flow Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
With relationship issues, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
New you, new flow! Have you been able to process how your nervous system is adjusting to life's stressors? I take an empathetic and affirming approach and I acknowledge that doing the inner work can be difficult. I'm proud of you for considering & investing in yourself. I work with clients who are BI&POC-Black Indigenous and People of Color. I enjoy empowering clients as they explore how their nervous system is responding to past and current experiences. Your relationships, career and dreams are evolving and when you win, I win!
With relationship issues, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
New you, new flow! Have you been able to process how your nervous system is adjusting to life's stressors? I take an empathetic and affirming approach and I acknowledge that doing the inner work can be difficult. I'm proud of you for considering & investing in yourself. I work with clients who are BI&POC-Black Indigenous and People of Color. I enjoy empowering clients as they explore how their nervous system is responding to past and current experiences. Your relationships, career and dreams are evolving and when you win, I win!
(202) 866-2115 View (202) 866-2115
Photo of Darrin D. Payne in Atlanta, GA
Darrin D. Payne
MA, APC, BS Min
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30316
Darrin's techniques include CBT/DBT/REBT/EFT/ACT, Internal Family Systems Therapy, ARC Therapy, Attachment Theory and Psychodynamic interventions.
Darrin is a licensed associate professional counselor under supervision trained to work with men, women, adolescents, couples and groups requiring professional help. He realizes that life produces internal storm damages occurring far too often without any damage control or prevention. The causes of moodiness, irritability, restlessness, discontentment, fear, doubt, uncertainty, anger, depression, anxiety, insomnia and addiction all have one thing in common - a lack of holistic wellness. Recovery from the internal/external effects of untreated mental and emotional damages is what he will introduce you to.
Darrin's techniques include CBT/DBT/REBT/EFT/ACT, Internal Family Systems Therapy, ARC Therapy, Attachment Theory and Psychodynamic interventions.
Darrin is a licensed associate professional counselor under supervision trained to work with men, women, adolescents, couples and groups requiring professional help. He realizes that life produces internal storm damages occurring far too often without any damage control or prevention. The causes of moodiness, irritability, restlessness, discontentment, fear, doubt, uncertainty, anger, depression, anxiety, insomnia and addiction all have one thing in common - a lack of holistic wellness. Recovery from the internal/external effects of untreated mental and emotional damages is what he will introduce you to.
(678) 263-2087 View (678) 263-2087
Photo of Nina Quiñones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Nina Quiñones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318
Navigating life's challenges can feel impossible at times, even if we find ourselves seemingly surrounded by support. Are you in the middle of a life transition, unsure of the next steps to take to help you move forward? Are you open to exploring past and present experiences in a judgment-free space, in the hopes of bringing you closer to emotional freedom? In my work with adult individuals and couples, I integrate mindfulness practices and various evidence-based techniques to help you (& your partner) develop healthy coping mechanisms, build self-compassion, and create a more fulfilling life.
Navigating life's challenges can feel impossible at times, even if we find ourselves seemingly surrounded by support. Are you in the middle of a life transition, unsure of the next steps to take to help you move forward? Are you open to exploring past and present experiences in a judgment-free space, in the hopes of bringing you closer to emotional freedom? In my work with adult individuals and couples, I integrate mindfulness practices and various evidence-based techniques to help you (& your partner) develop healthy coping mechanisms, build self-compassion, and create a more fulfilling life.
(470) 333-7430 View (470) 333-7430
Photo of Dr. Elena Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Dr. Elena Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30345
Waitlist for new clients
I use the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy to teach couples how to create a healthy partnership.
Did you have a difficult childhood and are now afraid of repeating the same dysfunctional patterns in your own relationship? Are you afraid of intimacy and scared that your partner will reject and/or abandon you? Do you fear they won't "get" you? Maybe you have a hard time understanding yourself and knowing why you treat your partner the way you do. If you did not have the best childhood growing up, then chances are, you do not have a good model of what a healthy, life-long relationship or marriage looks like. Your parents did their best, but they struggled with their own issues and did not know have to have a healthy partnership.
I use the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy to teach couples how to create a healthy partnership.
Did you have a difficult childhood and are now afraid of repeating the same dysfunctional patterns in your own relationship? Are you afraid of intimacy and scared that your partner will reject and/or abandon you? Do you fear they won't "get" you? Maybe you have a hard time understanding yourself and knowing why you treat your partner the way you do. If you did not have the best childhood growing up, then chances are, you do not have a good model of what a healthy, life-long relationship or marriage looks like. Your parents did their best, but they struggled with their own issues and did not know have to have a healthy partnership.
(470) 592-8780 View (470) 592-8780
Photo of Abby Marateck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Abby Marateck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30317
With couples, I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy, a method validated by 20 years of empirical research.
The future may not feel bright right now. You may be overcome by a feeling of hopelessness that seems like it will last forever. The death of a loved one, the loss of your identity, or loneliness might feel all-consuming. Let the part of you that wants things to be different help you to reach out. I am here to provide a safe space to be heard, to be supported, and to help you identify your unique gifts and strengths. Together we can collaborate to restore balance to your life and let some of the light back in.
With couples, I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy, a method validated by 20 years of empirical research.
The future may not feel bright right now. You may be overcome by a feeling of hopelessness that seems like it will last forever. The death of a loved one, the loss of your identity, or loneliness might feel all-consuming. Let the part of you that wants things to be different help you to reach out. I am here to provide a safe space to be heard, to be supported, and to help you identify your unique gifts and strengths. Together we can collaborate to restore balance to your life and let some of the light back in.
(404) 724-5511 View (404) 724-5511
Photo of Meara Stahley, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Meara Stahley
Counselor, LAPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30319  (Online Only)
Healing comes from a deep, authentic human connection. I approach any therapeutic service by focusing on building connections and trust between myself and my clients. Clients are partners in treatment and together we will work to find meaning, hope, and progress in life.
Healing comes from a deep, authentic human connection. I approach any therapeutic service by focusing on building connections and trust between myself and my clients. Clients are partners in treatment and together we will work to find meaning, hope, and progress in life.
(404) 948-4722 View (404) 948-4722
Photo of Damaris Solomon Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Damaris Solomon Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329
Hi, I'm Damaris Johnson! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I specialize in treating individuals, premarital couples and new moms. As a graduate of Mercer University School of Medicine with a Masters degree in Family Therapy, I am currently serving as the Clinical Director at The Walk of Life Counseling Center. Additionally, I am a Prepare-Enrich Facilitator as well as a Certified Trainer for counselors in the community who seek to provide premarital/marital counseling. Assisting new mothers and premarital couples is very important to me; I offer concierge services outside of normal business hours when available.
Hi, I'm Damaris Johnson! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and I specialize in treating individuals, premarital couples and new moms. As a graduate of Mercer University School of Medicine with a Masters degree in Family Therapy, I am currently serving as the Clinical Director at The Walk of Life Counseling Center. Additionally, I am a Prepare-Enrich Facilitator as well as a Certified Trainer for counselors in the community who seek to provide premarital/marital counseling. Assisting new mothers and premarital couples is very important to me; I offer concierge services outside of normal business hours when available.
(470) 348-2143 View (470) 348-2143
Photo of Rachael Jamison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Rachael Jamison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC, CRA, MRT, CAMS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30310  (Online Only)
Are you looking to make a change and feel overwhelmed with where to start? Struggling with unhealthy patterns, mood symptoms, or life transition? If your daily routine and relationships are being affected by the challenges of these issues, let me help you navigate your journey. Together we can identify new coping skills, (ones YOU want to try!), so that you can feel empowered and confident as you embrace your healthy lifestyle changes!
Are you looking to make a change and feel overwhelmed with where to start? Struggling with unhealthy patterns, mood symptoms, or life transition? If your daily routine and relationships are being affected by the challenges of these issues, let me help you navigate your journey. Together we can identify new coping skills, (ones YOU want to try!), so that you can feel empowered and confident as you embrace your healthy lifestyle changes!
(678) 853-7964 View (678) 853-7964
Photo of Clarence W Massie Jr, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Clarence W Massie Jr
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, MS, ICADC, MAC, CADC-II
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331
Finding someone who makes you feel understood is often challenging even in a therapeutic setting. I work collaboratively with clients, and emphasize an empathic client-therapist relationship. I have a very simple approach to therapy which is to understand your dreams, together set goals with you to achieve those dreams, and to teach you coping skills to manage the difficult challenges you are facing.
Finding someone who makes you feel understood is often challenging even in a therapeutic setting. I work collaboratively with clients, and emphasize an empathic client-therapist relationship. I have a very simple approach to therapy which is to understand your dreams, together set goals with you to achieve those dreams, and to teach you coping skills to manage the difficult challenges you are facing.
(404) 586-4133 View (404) 586-4133
Photo of Sarah Mings, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Sarah Mings
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30350  (Online Only)
My focus is to facilitate your pursuit in creating the relationships and life goals you seek to realize. I want to enable you to create the life you are yearning for. I teach skills which will reduce stress, enhance the quality of your life, and open up possibilities for your fullfillment.
My focus is to facilitate your pursuit in creating the relationships and life goals you seek to realize. I want to enable you to create the life you are yearning for. I teach skills which will reduce stress, enhance the quality of your life, and open up possibilities for your fullfillment.
(678) 389-3586 View (678) 389-3586
Photo of Elaine Maye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Elaine Maye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFC, MFT
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30354
Is your life stressful and overwhelming? Are you ready to break self-destructive patterns and addictions? If your answer is yes, then help is at hand. Goal Focus Counseling Services (GFPS) incorporates faith along with psychodynamic intervention to give you an effective plan of action. Individualized attention is given to address persistent personal, relationship and work concerns. You and your family can express your feelings privately with someone who is supportive and non-judgmental. Our objective is to focus on goals to maximize your therapeutic experience. With over 20 yers. experience, we now offer video/phone sessions.
Is your life stressful and overwhelming? Are you ready to break self-destructive patterns and addictions? If your answer is yes, then help is at hand. Goal Focus Counseling Services (GFPS) incorporates faith along with psychodynamic intervention to give you an effective plan of action. Individualized attention is given to address persistent personal, relationship and work concerns. You and your family can express your feelings privately with someone who is supportive and non-judgmental. Our objective is to focus on goals to maximize your therapeutic experience. With over 20 yers. experience, we now offer video/phone sessions.
(470) 435-7604 View (470) 435-7604
Photo of Erin M Ruppel, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Erin M Ruppel
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CSAT, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30350
Imagine a transformative journey where your growth and healing are at the forefront, irrespective of any labeled mental illness. I'm deeply passionate about assisting individuals in various aspects of their lives. Embracing a holistic view, I believe in healing from a whole individual perspective, encompassing the mind, body, and spirit. Whether you seek to navigate life experiences or gain a better understanding of yourself, my goal is to support and guide you on this path of self-discovery. I take pride in fostering growth not only in my clients but also in fellow counselors under my mentorship.
Imagine a transformative journey where your growth and healing are at the forefront, irrespective of any labeled mental illness. I'm deeply passionate about assisting individuals in various aspects of their lives. Embracing a holistic view, I believe in healing from a whole individual perspective, encompassing the mind, body, and spirit. Whether you seek to navigate life experiences or gain a better understanding of yourself, my goal is to support and guide you on this path of self-discovery. I take pride in fostering growth not only in my clients but also in fellow counselors under my mentorship.
(678) 345-8556 View (678) 345-8556
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.