Emotionally Focused Therapists in Newtonville, MA

Photo of J. Ben Barnes, PhD, Psychologist
J. Ben Barnes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newtonville, MA 02460
I provide therapy for adults and adolescents who are feeling trapped by anxiety, fear, unwanted thoughts (or memories), and other distressing emotions related to anxiety disorders and trauma (e.g., fear, guilt, shame, sadness).
I provide therapy for adults and adolescents who are feeling trapped by anxiety, fear, unwanted thoughts (or memories), and other distressing emotions related to anxiety disorders and trauma (e.g., fear, guilt, shame, sadness).
(857) 271-4180 View (857) 271-4180
Photo of Christina Conlan O'Flaherty, PsyD, Psychologist
Christina Conlan O'Flaherty
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtonville, MA 02460
My aim is to help you feel empowered and hopeful from our first meeting. I see our work as having 3 stages. The first is building a sense of safety and trust that provides a steady from which to do our collaborating. During this phase, new skills are offered as a way to give you more confidence in your ability to navigate daily struggles. In the second phase we explore the roots of your challenges and how your can unravel from old patterns and beliefs. This allows you to experience life differently and try on new ways of being. Finally, we integrate what you've learned and create meaning from your experiences.
My aim is to help you feel empowered and hopeful from our first meeting. I see our work as having 3 stages. The first is building a sense of safety and trust that provides a steady from which to do our collaborating. During this phase, new skills are offered as a way to give you more confidence in your ability to navigate daily struggles. In the second phase we explore the roots of your challenges and how your can unravel from old patterns and beliefs. This allows you to experience life differently and try on new ways of being. Finally, we integrate what you've learned and create meaning from your experiences.
(646) 600-9097 View (646) 600-9097
Photo of Lorraine Hursey Deng, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorraine Hursey Deng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newtonville, MA 02460
We often become stuck in unhealthy thinking patterns or habits, which can be the result of difficult past experiences or phase of life stressors. However, I believe everyone has the ability to achieve desired change. The client-worker relationship is important to me, and I begin working to develop a meaningful connection through understanding the specific needs of each person I work with.
We often become stuck in unhealthy thinking patterns or habits, which can be the result of difficult past experiences or phase of life stressors. However, I believe everyone has the ability to achieve desired change. The client-worker relationship is important to me, and I begin working to develop a meaningful connection through understanding the specific needs of each person I work with.
(617) 675-4950 View (617) 675-4950
Photo of Lisa Newfield, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Newfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newtonville, MA 02158
As a psychotherapist, I listen carefully and work collaboratively with each client in forming a safe and accepting relationship. This relationship provides the basis for exploration, problem solving, healing and growth. I have an interactive style which incorporates warmth, humor, authenticity and direct feedback as I help my clients work through areas in which they feel stuck, unhappy or overwhelmed. These areas may include marital and other relationship difficulties, anxiety around life transitions, concerns about parenting or caring for aging parents, coping with illness, and dealing with breakups along with many others.
As a psychotherapist, I listen carefully and work collaboratively with each client in forming a safe and accepting relationship. This relationship provides the basis for exploration, problem solving, healing and growth. I have an interactive style which incorporates warmth, humor, authenticity and direct feedback as I help my clients work through areas in which they feel stuck, unhappy or overwhelmed. These areas may include marital and other relationship difficulties, anxiety around life transitions, concerns about parenting or caring for aging parents, coping with illness, and dealing with breakups along with many others.
(339) 217-5788 View (339) 217-5788

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Heidi Steinert, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heidi Steinert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
My therapy styIe is warm, nonjudgmental and interactive, and my passion lies in assisting people in finding their authentic self. It is my true privilege to be allowed into the lives of my clients, and I believe it is of the utmost importance to treat every client with respect, sensitivity and compassion. We can work together to improve your relationships with important people in your life, and to develop skills and strategies to help you find strength and inner peace.
My therapy styIe is warm, nonjudgmental and interactive, and my passion lies in assisting people in finding their authentic self. It is my true privilege to be allowed into the lives of my clients, and I believe it is of the utmost importance to treat every client with respect, sensitivity and compassion. We can work together to improve your relationships with important people in your life, and to develop skills and strategies to help you find strength and inner peace.
(857) 371-1864 View (857) 371-1864
Photo of Mara Siegman, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mara Siegman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I provide in-person and virtual psychotherapy sessions for teens ages 14+, as well as adults. My clinical specialties include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. In my practice, I use tenets of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to provide support, challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, and facilitate behavioral change. I am passionate about using an emotionally-focused therapy approach to help people increase awareness of their emotions in order to better understand and face them rather than suppressing them.
Hello! I provide in-person and virtual psychotherapy sessions for teens ages 14+, as well as adults. My clinical specialties include the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and trauma. In my practice, I use tenets of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to provide support, challenge unhelpful thinking patterns, and facilitate behavioral change. I am passionate about using an emotionally-focused therapy approach to help people increase awareness of their emotions in order to better understand and face them rather than suppressing them.
(617) 958-2779 View (617) 958-2779
Photo of Rosa Khorshidi LMFT, MS, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rosa Khorshidi LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02466  (Online Only)
As an EFT therapist, I work from a strength-based viewpoint.
I worked with individuals, couples, and families since 1991 in Iran and America. Relationships, especially couple therapy is my focus. A Ph.D. student in couple therapy, I am the world's first Iranian/Muslim Certified EFT Therapist. EFTis a meta-cultural model based on Attachment Theory. Its success rate is up to %90. I am the only Muslim LMFT of MA and the only Iranian LMFT of New England, but I am open to any population.I work with Middle Eastern, Muslims, immigrants, and especially Iranians, but more than half of my clients are out of that population.
As an EFT therapist, I work from a strength-based viewpoint.
I worked with individuals, couples, and families since 1991 in Iran and America. Relationships, especially couple therapy is my focus. A Ph.D. student in couple therapy, I am the world's first Iranian/Muslim Certified EFT Therapist. EFTis a meta-cultural model based on Attachment Theory. Its success rate is up to %90. I am the only Muslim LMFT of MA and the only Iranian LMFT of New England, but I am open to any population.I work with Middle Eastern, Muslims, immigrants, and especially Iranians, but more than half of my clients are out of that population.
(857) 401-8099 View (857) 401-8099
Photo of Leah Philbrook, MA, LMHC, CSTIP, Counselor
Leah Philbrook
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSTIP
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02468  (Online Only)
Here are the specs (though I believe an intro session will give us a real sense of fit): I am a client centered therapist who utilizes a sex positive approach pulling from many tools from evidence based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (based in Attachment theory), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness.
One of the core reasons people come to counseling is that they feel a lack of connection. Sometimes that connection is to others in their life; loved ones, partners, friends, or co-workers. Just as often that lack of connection is to themselves; fear, trauma, sexuality or shame. Fostering those connections with transparency, brevity and compassion is something I love to do. Helping people find understanding and to build coping skills that aren’t just instant gratification which drown out the real issues we’ve got (can feel good though). Skills and insight that’s more meaningful and effective than avoidance, or memes on Instagram.
Here are the specs (though I believe an intro session will give us a real sense of fit): I am a client centered therapist who utilizes a sex positive approach pulling from many tools from evidence based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (based in Attachment theory), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Mindfulness.
One of the core reasons people come to counseling is that they feel a lack of connection. Sometimes that connection is to others in their life; loved ones, partners, friends, or co-workers. Just as often that lack of connection is to themselves; fear, trauma, sexuality or shame. Fostering those connections with transparency, brevity and compassion is something I love to do. Helping people find understanding and to build coping skills that aren’t just instant gratification which drown out the real issues we’ve got (can feel good though). Skills and insight that’s more meaningful and effective than avoidance, or memes on Instagram.
(617) 431-1800 View (617) 431-1800
Photo of Nicole Barter, LMHC, Counselor
Nicole Barter
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453
As an experienced Licensed Clinician, I provide counseling for adolescents and adults utilizing both brief and long term treatment methods. This is a positive setting to enable my clients to heal emotionally, mentally and spiritually. I use an interactive, client-centered, and solution-focused approach; along with cognitive/behavioral therapy and psycho-educational tools. I also incorporate alternative approaches such as mindfulness, IFS, EFT. I am here to support and guide you on your journey of self-discovery and growth.
As an experienced Licensed Clinician, I provide counseling for adolescents and adults utilizing both brief and long term treatment methods. This is a positive setting to enable my clients to heal emotionally, mentally and spiritually. I use an interactive, client-centered, and solution-focused approach; along with cognitive/behavioral therapy and psycho-educational tools. I also incorporate alternative approaches such as mindfulness, IFS, EFT. I am here to support and guide you on your journey of self-discovery and growth.
(781) 996-3577 View (781) 996-3577
Photo of Adam Goodman, JD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adam Goodman
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02464  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I tailor approaches like CBT, EFT & family therapy to suit your needs.
Looking to enrich relationships - with family, friends, or yourself, while not losing sight of your career? As a professional, juggling personal connections and career ambitions can be a tightrope walk. Mindlessly scrolling or over-indulging are band-aids, not cures. Imagine nurturing relationships that uplift you, being present in cherished moments, and striking a harmony between ambition and well-being. Ready to embrace a more fulfilled, balanced life? Let’s take the first step together.
I tailor approaches like CBT, EFT & family therapy to suit your needs.
Looking to enrich relationships - with family, friends, or yourself, while not losing sight of your career? As a professional, juggling personal connections and career ambitions can be a tightrope walk. Mindlessly scrolling or over-indulging are band-aids, not cures. Imagine nurturing relationships that uplift you, being present in cherished moments, and striking a harmony between ambition and well-being. Ready to embrace a more fulfilled, balanced life? Let’s take the first step together.
View
Photo of Gabrielle Babai, PsyD, Psychologist
Gabrielle Babai
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
I am also trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT).
Accepting new clients- It is within safety and connection that we heal. I believe in the importance of creating a warm, non-judgmental, and safe therapeutic space, and a relationship in which you feel supported, understood, and heard. Client’s that I work with often struggle with self-esteem, navigating relational challenges, coping with distressing experiences, as well as feeling connected to and/or expressing their authentic self. Together, we will explore your concerns and help you grow towards greater self-understanding, improvements in the quality and intimacy of your relationships, confidence, self-compassion, and well-being.
I am also trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT).
Accepting new clients- It is within safety and connection that we heal. I believe in the importance of creating a warm, non-judgmental, and safe therapeutic space, and a relationship in which you feel supported, understood, and heard. Client’s that I work with often struggle with self-esteem, navigating relational challenges, coping with distressing experiences, as well as feeling connected to and/or expressing their authentic self. Together, we will explore your concerns and help you grow towards greater self-understanding, improvements in the quality and intimacy of your relationships, confidence, self-compassion, and well-being.
(802) 521-2348 View (802) 521-2348
Photo of Aubrey Hinton, MAS-MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aubrey Hinton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAS-MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waban, MA 02468
Aubrey is a trained EMDR trauma therapist and a trained EFT couples therapist.
Aubrey utilizes a holistic view while embracing each persons unique experiences and individuality. Many of us feel overwhelmed, stuck, stressed, anxious, worried, angry, hopeless, or sad at times. Sometimes we struggle with changes like moving, having a baby, starting school, starting a new job, or losing a loved one (pets included). Some of us have had distressing experiences or something traumatic happen. Or perhaps we are having difficulty in a relationship with family, friends, dating, partner, or spouse. Aubrey works with you to find the most effective techniques and skills to support in facing challenges and finding relief.
Aubrey is a trained EMDR trauma therapist and a trained EFT couples therapist.
Aubrey utilizes a holistic view while embracing each persons unique experiences and individuality. Many of us feel overwhelmed, stuck, stressed, anxious, worried, angry, hopeless, or sad at times. Sometimes we struggle with changes like moving, having a baby, starting school, starting a new job, or losing a loved one (pets included). Some of us have had distressing experiences or something traumatic happen. Or perhaps we are having difficulty in a relationship with family, friends, dating, partner, or spouse. Aubrey works with you to find the most effective techniques and skills to support in facing challenges and finding relief.
(623) 235-8809 View (623) 235-8809
Photo of Allison Gates, MS, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Allison Gates
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Waban, MA 02468
Allison Gates is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has more than 10 years of experience collaborating with a diverse population of individuals encompassing adults, teens, youth, couples, families, and groups needing psychotherapeutic counseling and support. Allison’s professional practice includes treating individuals amongst varying stages of human development and throughout the lifespan who may present with a variety of co-occurring conditions, including, but not limited to, life transitions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance use disorders, dual diagnosis, eating disorders, trauma.
Allison Gates is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) who has more than 10 years of experience collaborating with a diverse population of individuals encompassing adults, teens, youth, couples, families, and groups needing psychotherapeutic counseling and support. Allison’s professional practice includes treating individuals amongst varying stages of human development and throughout the lifespan who may present with a variety of co-occurring conditions, including, but not limited to, life transitions, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, substance use disorders, dual diagnosis, eating disorders, trauma.
(617) 362-4307 View (617) 362-4307
Photo of Nikki Huijun Li, MA, R-DMT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nikki Huijun Li
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, R-DMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464
Nikki provides culturally-affirming, attachment-based, queer-affirming, poly-friendly, strength-based and client-centered services, integrating trauma-informed and evidence-based theories including Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT), Expressive Arts Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Mindfulness.
Nikki works with children and adults of all backgrounds, specializing in LGBTQIA+, couples therapy and polyamory, parenting/co-parenting, children with special needs, immigrants and international students, and Asian mental health. She has experience with a wide range of issues including anxiety, communication, self-image, people pleasing, personal growth, embodiment, relational issues, boundary setting, neurodivergent and queer experiences, racial trauma, etc. Her therapeutic approach is creative and relational, and she provides language-specific care in both English and Mandarin Chinese.
Nikki provides culturally-affirming, attachment-based, queer-affirming, poly-friendly, strength-based and client-centered services, integrating trauma-informed and evidence-based theories including Dance/Movement Therapy (DMT), Expressive Arts Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Mindfulness.
Nikki works with children and adults of all backgrounds, specializing in LGBTQIA+, couples therapy and polyamory, parenting/co-parenting, children with special needs, immigrants and international students, and Asian mental health. She has experience with a wide range of issues including anxiety, communication, self-image, people pleasing, personal growth, embodiment, relational issues, boundary setting, neurodivergent and queer experiences, racial trauma, etc. Her therapeutic approach is creative and relational, and she provides language-specific care in both English and Mandarin Chinese.
(617) 765-9820 View (617) 765-9820
Photo of Paul Sawyer, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Sawyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02461
The modalities that I find most helpful in the healing process are Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT), and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP).
I am a licensed therapist who works with individuals and couples of all ages and various presenting concerns. I work with individuals with mental health challenges, addictive behavior, or life-transitional issues (e.g. beginning high school/college, launching into adulthood, managing relationships, grief/loss, etc.). I help couples get to a place of connection where each partner feels heard, understood, and loved by the other. No matter what circumstances led us to where we are today, I believe that we all have the potential to be happy and content.
The modalities that I find most helpful in the healing process are Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT), and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP).
I am a licensed therapist who works with individuals and couples of all ages and various presenting concerns. I work with individuals with mental health challenges, addictive behavior, or life-transitional issues (e.g. beginning high school/college, launching into adulthood, managing relationships, grief/loss, etc.). I help couples get to a place of connection where each partner feels heard, understood, and loved by the other. No matter what circumstances led us to where we are today, I believe that we all have the potential to be happy and content.
(774) 425-7652 View (774) 425-7652
Photo of Suzanne E. Marcus, MA, EdM, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne E. Marcus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, EdM
Verified Verified
Watertown, MA 02472
I am a Managing Director at the New England Center for Couples and Families, working primarily with couples. I love my work, and take an active, collaborative approach with my clients. I use an "attachment lens" while working, to help people find the underlying, deeper reasons that explain why they act in the ways they do in their relationships. I believe we all seek emotional intimacy, and that, with help, we can learn how to both offer it and receive it. I am certified in EFT ( Emotionally Focused Therapy), a highly successful, research-based approach to working with couples.
I am a Managing Director at the New England Center for Couples and Families, working primarily with couples. I love my work, and take an active, collaborative approach with my clients. I use an "attachment lens" while working, to help people find the underlying, deeper reasons that explain why they act in the ways they do in their relationships. I believe we all seek emotional intimacy, and that, with help, we can learn how to both offer it and receive it. I am certified in EFT ( Emotionally Focused Therapy), a highly successful, research-based approach to working with couples.
(781) 277-7736 View (781) 277-7736
Photo of Marie Palmier, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie Palmier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I use several therapeutic approaches based on individual needs: CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT, Solution-Focused and Narrative Therapy for improved emotional functioning.
My specialty is working with adults of all ages facing Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic/Terminal illness, Addiction. Each individual has their own story and unique needs. I take a person-centered authentic therapeutic approach to help you step towards your preferred life at your own pace, always focusing on what is most important to you. I have valuable experience working in mental health at leading Boston hospitals and I'm currently on staff at Mass General Brigham providing outpatient psychotherapy. I also work with adults in my private psychotherapy practice and offer online therapy sessions.
I use several therapeutic approaches based on individual needs: CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT, Solution-Focused and Narrative Therapy for improved emotional functioning.
My specialty is working with adults of all ages facing Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Divorce, Grief & Loss, Chronic/Terminal illness, Addiction. Each individual has their own story and unique needs. I take a person-centered authentic therapeutic approach to help you step towards your preferred life at your own pace, always focusing on what is most important to you. I have valuable experience working in mental health at leading Boston hospitals and I'm currently on staff at Mass General Brigham providing outpatient psychotherapy. I also work with adults in my private psychotherapy practice and offer online therapy sessions.
(857) 663-0636 View (857) 663-0636
Photo of Dr. Alexandra L Vlahakes, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alexandra L Vlahakes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02456  (Online Only)
Alexandra Vlahakes, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Massachusetts. Her specialties include helping adolescents and adults struggling with depression and anxiety, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, bipolar disorder, and people struggling with emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal issues. Dr. Vlahakes takes a particular interest in working with persons struggling with borderline personality, as well as consulting for dissociative disorders. Dr. Vlahakes also provides supervision for license-eligible practitioners as the Director of Clinical Training for Brighter Life Therapy, PLLC.
Alexandra Vlahakes, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Massachusetts. Her specialties include helping adolescents and adults struggling with depression and anxiety, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, bipolar disorder, and people struggling with emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal issues. Dr. Vlahakes takes a particular interest in working with persons struggling with borderline personality, as well as consulting for dissociative disorders. Dr. Vlahakes also provides supervision for license-eligible practitioners as the Director of Clinical Training for Brighter Life Therapy, PLLC.
(617) 936-8770 View (617) 936-8770
Photo of Cindy Ryan - Cindy Ryan, LMHC, Counselor
Cindy Ryan, LMHC
Counselor
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Currently Accepting Clients. Do you struggle with ongoing depression or anxiety? Are grief or trauma causing you confusion or exhaustion? Do you find relationships difficult? Your mental well-being sets the tone of your life; physical energy, sleep, mood and attitude suffer when life becomes overwhelming. To get back on track quickly, meeting regularly with a professional counselor can re-ignite a positive frame of mind.
Currently Accepting Clients. Do you struggle with ongoing depression or anxiety? Are grief or trauma causing you confusion or exhaustion? Do you find relationships difficult? Your mental well-being sets the tone of your life; physical energy, sleep, mood and attitude suffer when life becomes overwhelming. To get back on track quickly, meeting regularly with a professional counselor can re-ignite a positive frame of mind.
(978) 991-8575 View (978) 991-8575
Photo of Leslie Goodhue, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Goodhue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Leslie Goodhue is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Massachusetts with over 8 years of experience working in a variety of settings with all ages. She works to help individual clients cope with a range of concerns such as life transitions and everyday stressors to trauma, grief and loss. Despite working with all age groups, her specialty is young adults.
Leslie Goodhue is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Massachusetts with over 8 years of experience working in a variety of settings with all ages. She works to help individual clients cope with a range of concerns such as life transitions and everyday stressors to trauma, grief and loss. Despite working with all age groups, her specialty is young adults.
(617) 812-2125 View (617) 812-2125

See more therapy options for Newtonville

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.