Photo of Sharon Broder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, MA
Sharon Broder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Boston, MA 02127
I work with adults who are trying to figure how to feel better about themselves and their most important personal and professional relationships. Building resilience, insight and meaningful connections starts with making sense of your values, core beliefs, and your goals for yourself. Because my background includes experience in nonprofit and corporate environments, I’m also attuned to the nuances of work relationships, and how issues like communication breakdowns, lack of confidence, and burnout impact our emotional state and our relationships with ourselves.
I work with adults who are trying to figure how to feel better about themselves and their most important personal and professional relationships. Building resilience, insight and meaningful connections starts with making sense of your values, core beliefs, and your goals for yourself. Because my background includes experience in nonprofit and corporate environments, I’m also attuned to the nuances of work relationships, and how issues like communication breakdowns, lack of confidence, and burnout impact our emotional state and our relationships with ourselves.
(617) 849-9561 View (617) 849-9561
Photo of Erin P. Collins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, MA
Erin P. Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
South Boston, MA 02127
Waitlist for new clients
You are the “go to” person for family, friends, and colleagues, but it costs you a lot of anxiety. Being seen as competent and put together helps you to achieve, while the pressure of high expectations gets in the way of your day to day happiness. You want to get off the hamster wheel of pleasing and perfecting, but are unsure of exactly how to do it. While your life looks great on paper, on the inside you are struggling and have a hard time asking for help.
You are the “go to” person for family, friends, and colleagues, but it costs you a lot of anxiety. Being seen as competent and put together helps you to achieve, while the pressure of high expectations gets in the way of your day to day happiness. You want to get off the hamster wheel of pleasing and perfecting, but are unsure of exactly how to do it. While your life looks great on paper, on the inside you are struggling and have a hard time asking for help.
(617) 682-7376 View (617) 682-7376

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Oshetha L Shakoor-Rivera, Counselor in South Boston, MA
Oshetha L Shakoor-Rivera
Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02104  (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 Marie Palmier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, MA
Marie Palmier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (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 Nikki Huijun Li, Pre-Licensed Professional in South Boston, MA
Nikki Huijun Li
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, R-DMT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02111
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 children with special needs, parenting/co-parenting, couples' therapy and polyamory, international students, and Asian mental health. She has experience with a wide range of issues including anxiety, communication, self-image, personal growth, 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 children with special needs, parenting/co-parenting, couples' therapy and polyamory, international students, and Asian mental health. She has experience with a wide range of issues including anxiety, communication, self-image, personal growth, 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 Hema Naraharisetty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, MA
Hema Naraharisetty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, BSP (Brain spotting), IFS , SE (somatic experience), The Sedona method, Theta healing, Tantra, Family Constellations, NLP, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Shamanism, mindfulness, Eastern non dual philosophy, EFT and past life regression.
Helping clients struggling with unhealthy relationship patterns, finding love, social anxiety, anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors, childhood trauma, are my interests. Spiritual guidance is my newly evolving skill and passion. Providing a safe place to discuss your struggles and challenges is my priority. Having various experiences with life, I operate from a nonjudgmental and curious standpoint. I use my expertise and knowledge in biology, psychology, trauma focused theories, eastern philosophy to help you evolve in mind-body, emotional and spiritual dimensions. Please checkout my website life tree transformation to learn more
I am trained in EMDR, BSP (Brain spotting), IFS , SE (somatic experience), The Sedona method, Theta healing, Tantra, Family Constellations, NLP, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy, Shamanism, mindfulness, Eastern non dual philosophy, EFT and past life regression.
Helping clients struggling with unhealthy relationship patterns, finding love, social anxiety, anxiety, depression, addictive behaviors, childhood trauma, are my interests. Spiritual guidance is my newly evolving skill and passion. Providing a safe place to discuss your struggles and challenges is my priority. Having various experiences with life, I operate from a nonjudgmental and curious standpoint. I use my expertise and knowledge in biology, psychology, trauma focused theories, eastern philosophy to help you evolve in mind-body, emotional and spiritual dimensions. Please checkout my website life tree transformation to learn more
(978) 615-4487 View (978) 615-4487
Photo of Melanie Feldsher, Marriage & Family Therapist in South Boston, MA
Melanie Feldsher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
My style is warm and collaborative taking an integrative approach; drawing from a variety of modalities, including Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Accepting New Clients (Individuals and Couples)-Life can feel really overwhelming at times, especially when you are trying to manage the daily grind, while also being present in your personal and professional relationships. When you have a busy and demanding life your personal relationships often take a back burner and it’s hard to deal with problems effectively in the moment. Sometimes it’s easier to numb out or avoid with unhealthy habits. But, eventually these habits leave you feeling more stressed and disconnected, and problems that once appeared small snowball into larger issues.
My style is warm and collaborative taking an integrative approach; drawing from a variety of modalities, including Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Accepting New Clients (Individuals and Couples)-Life can feel really overwhelming at times, especially when you are trying to manage the daily grind, while also being present in your personal and professional relationships. When you have a busy and demanding life your personal relationships often take a back burner and it’s hard to deal with problems effectively in the moment. Sometimes it’s easier to numb out or avoid with unhealthy habits. But, eventually these habits leave you feeling more stressed and disconnected, and problems that once appeared small snowball into larger issues.
(857) 226-9228 View (857) 226-9228
Photo of Laura Winters Unsworth, Marriage & Family Therapist in South Boston, MA
Laura Winters Unsworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02102
Laura Unsworth is a skilled child, adult, and couples therapist, an expert in attachment and body-focused treatment modalities, and someone who can help you develop the skills and self-compassion needed to embrace a life narrative focused on strength and resilience. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with advanced training in evidenced-based therapies that include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She also has growing experience with one of our key modalities at 1A Wellness, Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Laura Unsworth is a skilled child, adult, and couples therapist, an expert in attachment and body-focused treatment modalities, and someone who can help you develop the skills and self-compassion needed to embrace a life narrative focused on strength and resilience. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with advanced training in evidenced-based therapies that include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She also has growing experience with one of our key modalities at 1A Wellness, Internal Family Systems (IFS).
(903) 300-2738 View (903) 300-2738
Photo of Melissa Rodrigues, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, MA
Melissa Rodrigues
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I am a Portuguese speaking therapist that empowers individuals to achieve their life goals. My passion to empower individuals has been the driving force behind my practice with a focus on working with persons across the lifespan who struggle with mood and substance abuse disorders, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I work with clients to manage their mental health symptoms rather than be defined by them so that they may achieve balance. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, EMDR & EFT Therapist, and Reiki Practitioner I use a trauma-informed, somatic approach to therapy.
I am a Portuguese speaking therapist that empowers individuals to achieve their life goals. My passion to empower individuals has been the driving force behind my practice with a focus on working with persons across the lifespan who struggle with mood and substance abuse disorders, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I work with clients to manage their mental health symptoms rather than be defined by them so that they may achieve balance. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, EMDR & EFT Therapist, and Reiki Practitioner I use a trauma-informed, somatic approach to therapy.
(351) 200-8663 View (351) 200-8663
Photo of Christie Lebrun, Counselor in South Boston, MA
Christie Lebrun
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor experienced in supporting youth, young adults, and adults through the challenges of life to reach a place of comfort. I specialize in working with individuals and families who experience mental health concerns, including, but not limited to, depression/anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, stress management, and relationship concerns. My work is versatile as I utilize my passions to support individuals to make positive progress toward their goals.
I am currently accepting new clients. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor experienced in supporting youth, young adults, and adults through the challenges of life to reach a place of comfort. I specialize in working with individuals and families who experience mental health concerns, including, but not limited to, depression/anxiety, life transitions, trauma, mood disorders, stress management, and relationship concerns. My work is versatile as I utilize my passions to support individuals to make positive progress toward their goals.
(857) 376-6778 View (857) 376-6778
Photo of Julie Kenary, Counselor in South Boston, MA
Julie Kenary
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I work with adults and older adolescents with the challenges of mood disorders(depression), anxiety, stress, relationships, self esteem, major life transitions(marriage, divorce, loss) and college adjustment. The focus of my work is helping clients make positive changes in order to have greater balance in life. My optimistic approach is that growth is a transformative opportunity and can be achieved through the engagement with a competent and caring counselor. I would like to work with you to change negative thoughts, decrease feelings of anxiety and alter unhelpful patterns of behavior.
I work with adults and older adolescents with the challenges of mood disorders(depression), anxiety, stress, relationships, self esteem, major life transitions(marriage, divorce, loss) and college adjustment. The focus of my work is helping clients make positive changes in order to have greater balance in life. My optimistic approach is that growth is a transformative opportunity and can be achieved through the engagement with a competent and caring counselor. I would like to work with you to change negative thoughts, decrease feelings of anxiety and alter unhelpful patterns of behavior.
(617) 431-6846 View (617) 431-6846
Photo of Archer Angels Family Services, LLC, Counselor in South Boston, MA
Archer Angels Family Services, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199
We strive to motivate participants to overcome life’s challenges. Feeling stressed, frustrated or overwhelmed? Is COVID-19 related changes impacting your life in anyway? Whether some of these apply to you or a loved one, WE CAN HELP! This practice encourages positive lifestyle changes. Therapeutic interventions may assist you cope, adjust and make progress. We pride ourselves on our honest commitment to support our clients reach their goals at any age.
We strive to motivate participants to overcome life’s challenges. Feeling stressed, frustrated or overwhelmed? Is COVID-19 related changes impacting your life in anyway? Whether some of these apply to you or a loved one, WE CAN HELP! This practice encourages positive lifestyle changes. Therapeutic interventions may assist you cope, adjust and make progress. We pride ourselves on our honest commitment to support our clients reach their goals at any age.
(857) 424-3154 View (857) 424-3154
Photo of Giselle Bonilla, Counselor in South Boston, MA
Giselle Bonilla
Counselor, MA, LMHC, EAT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I know that I was put on this earth to support, and help others in their healing journey in regard to unprocessed trauma, and learning healthy life and coping skills. I will support you in how to apply these in your day to day life and/or process and heal from any unprocessed trauma. We often hold a lot of unprocessed trauma in our bodies without realizing how much of an impact it has in our interaction with our environments, and relationships. I am here to support you in improving your own self-awareness of yourself, and checking in with your mind, body, and emotions.
I know that I was put on this earth to support, and help others in their healing journey in regard to unprocessed trauma, and learning healthy life and coping skills. I will support you in how to apply these in your day to day life and/or process and heal from any unprocessed trauma. We often hold a lot of unprocessed trauma in our bodies without realizing how much of an impact it has in our interaction with our environments, and relationships. I am here to support you in improving your own self-awareness of yourself, and checking in with your mind, body, and emotions.
(617) 665-7829 View (617) 665-7829
Photo of Barbara Richard-Varon, Counselor in South Boston, MA
Barbara Richard-Varon
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
Online appointments only. I am a licensed mental health counselor with a broad spectrum of experience, from working with toddlers and their parents to individuals living with chronic, severe mental health issues. I believe everyone is doing the best they can with the tools they have. My focus is to help you identify new tools and strategies to overcome the barriers that have prevented you from reaching your goals and living the life you want. We will work together to identify and mobilize your strengths in order to improve your experience of life.
Online appointments only. I am a licensed mental health counselor with a broad spectrum of experience, from working with toddlers and their parents to individuals living with chronic, severe mental health issues. I believe everyone is doing the best they can with the tools they have. My focus is to help you identify new tools and strategies to overcome the barriers that have prevented you from reaching your goals and living the life you want. We will work together to identify and mobilize your strengths in order to improve your experience of life.
(857) 371-3446 View (857) 371-3446
Photo of Paula Tereza Gomes, Counselor in South Boston, MA
Paula Tereza Gomes
Counselor, JD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
No matter who you are or where you have been, you are welcome here. This step is often not an easy one to take. I am glad you are here. Take a look around and see if any of the services offered sound like they could be a good fit for your current concerns and needs. Thank you for stopping by and choosing to take the next step on your journey. -Paula
No matter who you are or where you have been, you are welcome here. This step is often not an easy one to take. I am glad you are here. Take a look around and see if any of the services offered sound like they could be a good fit for your current concerns and needs. Thank you for stopping by and choosing to take the next step on your journey. -Paula
(617) 826-8613 View (617) 826-8613
Photo of Kerry Lang, Counselor in South Boston, MA
Kerry Lang
Counselor, LMHC, MA, ET, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118  (Online Only)
Do you suffer from fatigue, pain, or unexplained health issues? Have you been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, chronic Lyme disease, Long Covid, POTS or ME/CFS? I am here to BELIEVE you, support you, validate you, and guide you along whatever journey you are on. I believe that the mind, body, and spirit are interconnected and that therapy is just one element of healing. I use holistic & integrative modalities to help clients work through challenges while providing support & resources along the way.
Do you suffer from fatigue, pain, or unexplained health issues? Have you been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, chronic Lyme disease, Long Covid, POTS or ME/CFS? I am here to BELIEVE you, support you, validate you, and guide you along whatever journey you are on. I believe that the mind, body, and spirit are interconnected and that therapy is just one element of healing. I use holistic & integrative modalities to help clients work through challenges while providing support & resources along the way.
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Photo of Matthew Engel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, MA
Matthew Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02118  (Online Only)
I work with people from many walks of life. Regardless of culture, economics, gender identity, sexual orientation or vocation, one of the common threads is a quest for greater meaning, depth, authenticity & inner peace. I draw upon 25 years of professional experience blending insights and supportive tools from psychology, professional development, social justice and non-denominational spirituality. Whether you're newer to this process or a "seasoned client," I work best with people who are committed to inner growth. I provide psychotherapy as well as life and business coaching.
I work with people from many walks of life. Regardless of culture, economics, gender identity, sexual orientation or vocation, one of the common threads is a quest for greater meaning, depth, authenticity & inner peace. I draw upon 25 years of professional experience blending insights and supportive tools from psychology, professional development, social justice and non-denominational spirituality. Whether you're newer to this process or a "seasoned client," I work best with people who are committed to inner growth. I provide psychotherapy as well as life and business coaching.
(628) 666-0266 View (628) 666-0266
Photo of Ally DeFelice, Counselor in South Boston, MA
Ally DeFelice
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02125  (Online Only)
Are you feeling a general lack of enjoyment with your life? Are you worrying more than usual or feeling helpless? Are you struggling with motivation or feeling down/sad? Either due to deep-rooted issues, trauma, Covid, or a number of other reasons, life can get in the way! Consistent stressors can prevent us from living our best life! You don't have to suffer alone. Therapy can allow a welcoming environment for change! My intent is to create a safe space where we can work together to address the issues you are facing, improve understanding of yourself, and help you feel less stuck in existing patterns.
Are you feeling a general lack of enjoyment with your life? Are you worrying more than usual or feeling helpless? Are you struggling with motivation or feeling down/sad? Either due to deep-rooted issues, trauma, Covid, or a number of other reasons, life can get in the way! Consistent stressors can prevent us from living our best life! You don't have to suffer alone. Therapy can allow a welcoming environment for change! My intent is to create a safe space where we can work together to address the issues you are facing, improve understanding of yourself, and help you feel less stuck in existing patterns.
(339) 201-9597 View (339) 201-9597
Photo of Cassidy Figueredo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, MA
Cassidy Figueredo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Cassidy Stevens is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Massachusetts. Cassidy has 5 years of clinical experience supporting adult individuals coping with a broad range of challenges, from everyday life stressors like relationship issues and stress management to acute and traumatic events like grief and loss.
Cassidy Stevens is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in the state of Massachusetts. Cassidy has 5 years of clinical experience supporting adult individuals coping with a broad range of challenges, from everyday life stressors like relationship issues and stress management to acute and traumatic events like grief and loss.
(857) 420-6966 View (857) 420-6966
Photo of Dr. Maria Beatriz Alvarez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in South Boston, MA
Dr. Maria Beatriz Alvarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
There are circumstances in life that may trigger such negative feelings that we can barely stay afloat and function. During such times, we may feel stuck, realizing that all the resources that worked for us in the past do not work anymore. At other times, we may feel okay yet not fully satisfied with our present lives; we may want more but do not know what. I’m here to help you make that journey from surviving to thriving. I combine psychotherapy, coaching, and education. With my husband Michael we also offer Couple to Couple Coaching, drawing from our own professional training and life experiences to help other couples.
There are circumstances in life that may trigger such negative feelings that we can barely stay afloat and function. During such times, we may feel stuck, realizing that all the resources that worked for us in the past do not work anymore. At other times, we may feel okay yet not fully satisfied with our present lives; we may want more but do not know what. I’m here to help you make that journey from surviving to thriving. I combine psychotherapy, coaching, and education. With my husband Michael we also offer Couple to Couple Coaching, drawing from our own professional training and life experiences to help other couples.
(551) 266-5705 View (551) 266-5705

See more therapy options for South Boston


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.