Photo of The Couples College, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
The Couples College
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CHT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30346
Our Training includes: The Gottman Technique, Hakomi Institute technique, Terry Real, EFT and Tammy Nelson and Maci Daye Sex Therapy.
Whether you are entering into a serious relationship or have been with your partner for years, Couples College provides support to strengthen your relationship. We offer private marriage counseling, a partner skills-training course and individual counseling. Our work is designed for every age, ability, orientation and relationship stage. Twice a year the Couples College offers "When Love is Not Enough" - a course where couples work together to create a partnership for life. Beginning in September and February every year.
Our Training includes: The Gottman Technique, Hakomi Institute technique, Terry Real, EFT and Tammy Nelson and Maci Daye Sex Therapy.
Whether you are entering into a serious relationship or have been with your partner for years, Couples College provides support to strengthen your relationship. We offer private marriage counseling, a partner skills-training course and individual counseling. Our work is designed for every age, ability, orientation and relationship stage. Twice a year the Couples College offers "When Love is Not Enough" - a course where couples work together to create a partnership for life. Beginning in September and February every year.
(404) 445-1232 View (404) 445-1232
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 Dr. David Winograd, Pre-Licensed Professional in Atlanta, GA
Dr. David Winograd
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30363  (Online Only)
I utilize techniques primarily from CBT, ACT, and EFT; however, I'm integrative in my work and tailor my approach to your needs.
If you are struggling in your current relationship or have been unsuccessful in past attempts to develop healthy relationships, I'm here to help you identify what needs to change and take steps towards your goals. Whether it is difficulty with emotions, unhelpful beliefs, or destructive behavioral patterns, we will get to the root issues and develop a plan. I'm an especially good fit for people who appreciate a warm but direct approach to therapy and are motivated to change. I will carefully and empathically listen to your concerns, while also challenging you to lean into the difficult areas of your life as you change and grow.
I utilize techniques primarily from CBT, ACT, and EFT; however, I'm integrative in my work and tailor my approach to your needs.
If you are struggling in your current relationship or have been unsuccessful in past attempts to develop healthy relationships, I'm here to help you identify what needs to change and take steps towards your goals. Whether it is difficulty with emotions, unhelpful beliefs, or destructive behavioral patterns, we will get to the root issues and develop a plan. I'm an especially good fit for people who appreciate a warm but direct approach to therapy and are motivated to change. I will carefully and empathically listen to your concerns, while also challenging you to lean into the difficult areas of your life as you change and grow.
(470) 719-1874 View (470) 719-1874
Photo of David Blanchard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
David Blanchard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
I have been trained in the most researched forms of couples therapy that have proven outcomes; I completed all three levels of Gottman Method Couples therapy, as well as level 1 of TEAM-CBT, Certified Prepare and Enrich Facilitator and Emotionally Focused Therapy, and the CBCT (Cognitively-Based Compassion Training) approach.
Most couples who consider therapy feel stuck in a destructive cycle that becomes exhausting, isolating, and lonely. We all feel lost at times and do not know how to stop hurting. We all share a common experience at some point in our lives: when our relationships become brittle. Thankfully, we now live in a time where there is an answer based on solid research-based approaches. You don’t have to keep guessing how to make it better.
I have been trained in the most researched forms of couples therapy that have proven outcomes; I completed all three levels of Gottman Method Couples therapy, as well as level 1 of TEAM-CBT, Certified Prepare and Enrich Facilitator and Emotionally Focused Therapy, and the CBCT (Cognitively-Based Compassion Training) approach.
Most couples who consider therapy feel stuck in a destructive cycle that becomes exhausting, isolating, and lonely. We all feel lost at times and do not know how to stop hurting. We all share a common experience at some point in our lives: when our relationships become brittle. Thankfully, we now live in a time where there is an answer based on solid research-based approaches. You don’t have to keep guessing how to make it better.
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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 Steven Ward, Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Steven Ward
Counselor, APC, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30316  (Online Only)
I have an interest and education in multiple evidence-based theories, but find particular power EFT, narrative theory, person-centered, and IFS.
I am curious about you. I want to know your thoughts and feelings, your strengths and struggles. I want to get to hear your story. I see therapy as a journey we take as a team: working together to find the right path to meet your goals. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life stress, or maybe just want to give therapy a try, I’d love to talk.
I have an interest and education in multiple evidence-based theories, but find particular power EFT, narrative theory, person-centered, and IFS.
I am curious about you. I want to know your thoughts and feelings, your strengths and struggles. I want to get to hear your story. I see therapy as a journey we take as a team: working together to find the right path to meet your goals. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life stress, or maybe just want to give therapy a try, I’d love to talk.
(404) 390-4075 View (404) 390-4075
Photo of Charles A 'skeet' Stokes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Charles A 'skeet' Stokes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30342
EXPERIENCE MATTERS! I am the founder of Roswell Therapy Group and innovator of Created for Connection Georgia (EFT). As a LMFT I am trained intergrative systemically and certifying as an AAMFT Supervisor. I also am a LPC and a CPCS. I have 30 years of experience and skilled at working with complex relationships mainly with an EFT format. In addition I am trained in Attachment Focused EMDR having worked with various forms of trauma. I look forward to being of service with your relational needs as well as assistancing in managing anxiety, depression, stress or anger.
EXPERIENCE MATTERS! I am the founder of Roswell Therapy Group and innovator of Created for Connection Georgia (EFT). As a LMFT I am trained intergrative systemically and certifying as an AAMFT Supervisor. I also am a LPC and a CPCS. I have 30 years of experience and skilled at working with complex relationships mainly with an EFT format. In addition I am trained in Attachment Focused EMDR having worked with various forms of trauma. I look forward to being of service with your relational needs as well as assistancing in managing anxiety, depression, stress or anger.
(770) 538-1027 View (770) 538-1027
Photo of Travis Ramsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Travis Ramsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
Have you lost all trust with your partner? Are you at a loss as how to stop your child's destructive behaviors? Or maybe your bad habits are pulling you under. Everyone experiences self-defeating behaviors and relationship problems. But it doesn't have to stay this way. In therapy, things change. I have guided many through their hurts and fears, loneliness and conflicts, anxiety and depression. As an individual, couple, or family, I will sit with you, creating a safe space for you to be true to you, and help you discover the tools to accomplish your goals.
Have you lost all trust with your partner? Are you at a loss as how to stop your child's destructive behaviors? Or maybe your bad habits are pulling you under. Everyone experiences self-defeating behaviors and relationship problems. But it doesn't have to stay this way. In therapy, things change. I have guided many through their hurts and fears, loneliness and conflicts, anxiety and depression. As an individual, couple, or family, I will sit with you, creating a safe space for you to be true to you, and help you discover the tools to accomplish your goals.
(678) 882-7832 View (678) 882-7832
Photo of Ericka Jones, LPC Intern in Atlanta, GA
Ericka Jones
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30303
But how can I help you specifically? I employ diverse therapeutic approaches, including Attachment therapy, Brainspotting, EFT, SFBT, CBT, and Narrative therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or emotional regulation? Maybe feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life has thrown your way? Possibly seeking a healthier work-life balance? Could use some guidance through life transitions, career changes, or complex relationships? Engaged, dating or married needing premarital/couples counseling? Hi, I'm Ericka, and I'm here to help you navigate life's challenges and transitions. I understand that life transitions can be particularly tumultuous. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, I am here to support you every step of the way.
But how can I help you specifically? I employ diverse therapeutic approaches, including Attachment therapy, Brainspotting, EFT, SFBT, CBT, and Narrative therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or emotional regulation? Maybe feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life has thrown your way? Possibly seeking a healthier work-life balance? Could use some guidance through life transitions, career changes, or complex relationships? Engaged, dating or married needing premarital/couples counseling? Hi, I'm Ericka, and I'm here to help you navigate life's challenges and transitions. I understand that life transitions can be particularly tumultuous. If you're ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, I am here to support you every step of the way.
(678) 990-5564 View (678) 990-5564
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 Eliza Segell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Eliza Segell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30306
Your problems may be specific - a challenging relationship, sexual concerns, upsetting memories, or problem behaviors. Or your struggles may be less tangible - feeling lost, detached, or stuck. In my practice, I offer adult and couples therapy for a range of concerns. I specialize in treating sexual dysfunctions, trauma-related issues, relationship concerns, and problem behaviors. I also provide gender & sexual identity affirming care. I deeply enjoy helping individuals feel a greater sense of self-efficacy, confidence, and clarity in their lives.
Your problems may be specific - a challenging relationship, sexual concerns, upsetting memories, or problem behaviors. Or your struggles may be less tangible - feeling lost, detached, or stuck. In my practice, I offer adult and couples therapy for a range of concerns. I specialize in treating sexual dysfunctions, trauma-related issues, relationship concerns, and problem behaviors. I also provide gender & sexual identity affirming care. I deeply enjoy helping individuals feel a greater sense of self-efficacy, confidence, and clarity in their lives.
(434) 201-4934 View (434) 201-4934
Photo of David Terraso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
David Terraso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30307
I also specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, DBT, IFS, CAMS, and mindfulness to assist you on your journey.
Are you seeking to improve your relationships with your significant other, your family, or yourself? Do you yearn for a life where you have control over your own emotions and reactions, can make better decisions, and handle self-defeating behaviors? Whether you're seeking help for yourself, as a couple, or for your family, let's work together to calm and release your body, mind, and spirit from the past, so you can live a full and bountiful life today.
I also specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy, DBT, IFS, CAMS, and mindfulness to assist you on your journey.
Are you seeking to improve your relationships with your significant other, your family, or yourself? Do you yearn for a life where you have control over your own emotions and reactions, can make better decisions, and handle self-defeating behaviors? Whether you're seeking help for yourself, as a couple, or for your family, let's work together to calm and release your body, mind, and spirit from the past, so you can live a full and bountiful life today.
(404) 491-7751 x5 View (404) 491-7751 x5
Photo of Elissa Lynn & Company, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Elissa Lynn & Company, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339
At ELC, we believe good therapy includes creating a plan based on the choices and convictions of our clients, to provide the support and treatment they deserve. Our service and commitment is to encourage the build of a solid foundation, to sustain the structure and capacity of emotional health, using innovative, intentional and integrative treatment models. All done through love and compassion.
At ELC, we believe good therapy includes creating a plan based on the choices and convictions of our clients, to provide the support and treatment they deserve. Our service and commitment is to encourage the build of a solid foundation, to sustain the structure and capacity of emotional health, using innovative, intentional and integrative treatment models. All done through love and compassion.
(678) 730-6475 View (678) 730-6475
Photo of Jesmond Akeem Fair, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Jesmond Akeem Fair
Psychologist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30309
Waitlist for new clients
In my work, I center the voices of those with minoritized/oppressed identities (e.g., Black people, People of Color, LGBTQIA+, trans, gender-expansive people, and people in nontraditional relationship configurations). I have extensive experience working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, identity exploration (ethnic, racial, gender, and/or sexual identity), intersectionality, PTSD & Trauma, racial & oppression-based traumatic stress, and relationship concerns. I am also comfortable integrating religion/spirituality into our therapeutic work. My therapeutic sweet-spot is working with Q+BIPOC individuals and couples.
In my work, I center the voices of those with minoritized/oppressed identities (e.g., Black people, People of Color, LGBTQIA+, trans, gender-expansive people, and people in nontraditional relationship configurations). I have extensive experience working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, identity exploration (ethnic, racial, gender, and/or sexual identity), intersectionality, PTSD & Trauma, racial & oppression-based traumatic stress, and relationship concerns. I am also comfortable integrating religion/spirituality into our therapeutic work. My therapeutic sweet-spot is working with Q+BIPOC individuals and couples.
(404) 777-4603 View (404) 777-4603
Photo of Dr. Hannah Warshowsky, Psychologist in Atlanta, GA
Dr. Hannah Warshowsky
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30313  (Online Only)
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress.  My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
“And how do you feel about that!?” ---Says every TV comedy-bit depicting therapy. In reality, it can be intimidating to share our true feelings with another person- especially with a (virtual) stranger. In therapy sessions, I therefore create a warm, safe, empathetic, non-judgmental, space to unpack your story. I view you as an expert on yourself and will encourage you to honor your own inner wisdom. I value processing your unique context and how intersectional identities and structures of oppression contribute to your distress.  My goal is to illuminate the root causes of your pain and to help guide you towards healing and growth.
(404) 999-1665 View (404) 999-1665
Photo of Hannah Hawkins-Esther, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Atlanta, GA
Hannah Hawkins-Esther
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30324
Overwhelmed? Stressed out? Stuck? I am available and am honored to explore what is and isn't working for you in your life. I collaborate with you to support, challenge and encourage your efforts to change and/or discover more about yourself, your partner and your relationships. I strive to provide a reassuring and calm space for you to heal if needed as well as co-create opportunities to grow and recover. I am a flexible and attentive therapist dedicated to providing quality care.
Overwhelmed? Stressed out? Stuck? I am available and am honored to explore what is and isn't working for you in your life. I collaborate with you to support, challenge and encourage your efforts to change and/or discover more about yourself, your partner and your relationships. I strive to provide a reassuring and calm space for you to heal if needed as well as co-create opportunities to grow and recover. I am a flexible and attentive therapist dedicated to providing quality care.
(770) 847-8380 View (770) 847-8380
Photo of Innovative Lifestyle Network, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Innovative Lifestyle Network
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
Life can be extremely overwhelming and stressful at times and there will be tough situations where support will be needed. We have a team of therapists who specialize in helping individuals cope with the real stressors of balancing work, relationships, family demands and personal life. We understand how easy it is to lose yourself while trying to conquer all of life's challenges to finding your purpose and fulfillment. With a team of therapists having five or more years of transforming lives, we provide successful and effective counseling, coaching, and educational workshops for all individuals.
Life can be extremely overwhelming and stressful at times and there will be tough situations where support will be needed. We have a team of therapists who specialize in helping individuals cope with the real stressors of balancing work, relationships, family demands and personal life. We understand how easy it is to lose yourself while trying to conquer all of life's challenges to finding your purpose and fulfillment. With a team of therapists having five or more years of transforming lives, we provide successful and effective counseling, coaching, and educational workshops for all individuals.
(470) 444-4512 View (470) 444-4512
Photo of Orion Crook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Orion Crook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30310
Orion Psychotherapy’s mission is to support expressive experiences of adolescents, adults, couples, and families that facilitate meaningful discovery and intentional change. I work with a range of issues focusing on a person centered approach to the work. That means I met you where you are with techniques that match with your struggle. I am trained and believe in an approach that helps treat mental illness and develop mental health as it is its own arena of skills and understandings. I encourage my clients to spend as much effort on working with their negative and dissociative emotions as they do with their positive ones.
Orion Psychotherapy’s mission is to support expressive experiences of adolescents, adults, couples, and families that facilitate meaningful discovery and intentional change. I work with a range of issues focusing on a person centered approach to the work. That means I met you where you are with techniques that match with your struggle. I am trained and believe in an approach that helps treat mental illness and develop mental health as it is its own arena of skills and understandings. I encourage my clients to spend as much effort on working with their negative and dissociative emotions as they do with their positive ones.
(404) 975-2591 View (404) 975-2591
Photo of Janice Duncan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Atlanta, GA
Janice Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30316  (Online Only)
Sometimes in order to heal you need someone to listen to you. I provide individual and family therapy to adults, couples, and teenagers with various mental health disorders. I am well versed in several counseling techniques and have a compassionate and approachable demeanor. My counseling skills are above par, and as we work together, we will explore and process your needs and develop the best treatment plan. It is important for individuals to disclose information at their own pace. Working together will ensure that you complete your treatment goals successfully.
Sometimes in order to heal you need someone to listen to you. I provide individual and family therapy to adults, couples, and teenagers with various mental health disorders. I am well versed in several counseling techniques and have a compassionate and approachable demeanor. My counseling skills are above par, and as we work together, we will explore and process your needs and develop the best treatment plan. It is important for individuals to disclose information at their own pace. Working together will ensure that you complete your treatment goals successfully.
(678) 680-5438 View (678) 680-5438
Photo of Mikayla Wimbush, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Atlanta, GA
Mikayla Wimbush
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305
Are you finding yourself struggling to connect deeply in interpersonal relationships? Having difficulty connecting your emotions to you experiences? Struggling to navigate significant life events or find your purpose? If this sounds familiar, you have come to the right place. You deserve to own and rewrite your story to move toward a new and improved version of yourself. Together, we can unravel past experiences that have shaped the way you show up in your relationships today and highlight the tools you possess to reach your goals.
Are you finding yourself struggling to connect deeply in interpersonal relationships? Having difficulty connecting your emotions to you experiences? Struggling to navigate significant life events or find your purpose? If this sounds familiar, you have come to the right place. You deserve to own and rewrite your story to move toward a new and improved version of yourself. Together, we can unravel past experiences that have shaped the way you show up in your relationships today and highlight the tools you possess to reach your goals.
(470) 397-3240 View (470) 397-3240
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.