Photo of Hannah Bunney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Hannah Bunney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55423  (Online Only)
I have specialized trainings in the AIR Network Model, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) (Level 1), Brainspotting (Phases 1-4, Masterclass, From Freeze to Thaw (somatic/body processing) parts 1 & 2, Expansion, Chakras Theory, Addiction), Emotionally Focused Therapy and prescribe to the Health at Every Size philosophy.
Welcome to my highly specialized trauma and somatic processing practice! I specialize in Eating Disorders, Traumas, Domestic Violence, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders and general mental health distress. You can expect most sessions to incorporate either Brainspotting or ART, with some skill building and traditional talk therapy mixed throughout, while primarily working through the AIR Network Model lens. My goal is for you to reach your mental health needs and goals in an efficient and timely manner to reach a point where you can graduate from mental health services and only need maintenance sessions as new stressors arise.
I have specialized trainings in the AIR Network Model, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) (Level 1), Brainspotting (Phases 1-4, Masterclass, From Freeze to Thaw (somatic/body processing) parts 1 & 2, Expansion, Chakras Theory, Addiction), Emotionally Focused Therapy and prescribe to the Health at Every Size philosophy.
Welcome to my highly specialized trauma and somatic processing practice! I specialize in Eating Disorders, Traumas, Domestic Violence, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders and general mental health distress. You can expect most sessions to incorporate either Brainspotting or ART, with some skill building and traditional talk therapy mixed throughout, while primarily working through the AIR Network Model lens. My goal is for you to reach your mental health needs and goals in an efficient and timely manner to reach a point where you can graduate from mental health services and only need maintenance sessions as new stressors arise.
(952) 522-3480 View (952) 522-3480
Photo of Jonathan Pounder, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Jonathan Pounder
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
I like to draw from a variety of therapy models, primarily using mindfulness, emotionally focused therapy, and IFS.
Too often we get caught up in worrying about things we cannot control, yet don't know where to start in making a change in the right direction. Perhaps you're noticing more conflict in your relationships? Maybe you know what you'd like to be different in your life, but feel stuck or paralyzed in taking the first step? Or possibly, there are things you experienced growing up and you just can't seem to 'let it go.' As your therapist, I will take the time to get to know and understand your experiences, areas of stuckness, and overwhelm, as we work together to create meaningful changes.
I like to draw from a variety of therapy models, primarily using mindfulness, emotionally focused therapy, and IFS.
Too often we get caught up in worrying about things we cannot control, yet don't know where to start in making a change in the right direction. Perhaps you're noticing more conflict in your relationships? Maybe you know what you'd like to be different in your life, but feel stuck or paralyzed in taking the first step? Or possibly, there are things you experienced growing up and you just can't seem to 'let it go.' As your therapist, I will take the time to get to know and understand your experiences, areas of stuckness, and overwhelm, as we work together to create meaningful changes.
(612) 509-5109 x730 View (612) 509-5109 x730
Photo of Benjamin Ronning, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Benjamin Ronning
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55403
I consider the opportunity to learn about a client's unique inner experiences to be a wonderful privilege. As the therapeutic relationship strengthens, so does the chance to learn and evolve. I try my best to understand and create a warm, open, and safe therapeutic environment. My work is integrative and rooted in Person-Centered Theory. I utilize various interventions including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and an existential approach.
I consider the opportunity to learn about a client's unique inner experiences to be a wonderful privilege. As the therapeutic relationship strengthens, so does the chance to learn and evolve. I try my best to understand and create a warm, open, and safe therapeutic environment. My work is integrative and rooted in Person-Centered Theory. I utilize various interventions including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and an existential approach.
(612) 324-5772 x2 View (612) 324-5772 x2
Photo of Alexandria Grim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Alexandria Grim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55430  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Alexandria Grim or Lexy for short. I am a licensed professional counselor and owner of Breaking Free Counseling and Consulting Services. I have a B.A. in African American Studies and a minor in Sociology from the University of Mn. I also have a M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. My counseling style is eclectic, integrative and intuitive in nature. Specifically, my approach blends a balance between influences of Adlerian therapy, DBT, CBT, TF-CBT and EFT. I am also a spiritual counselor working toward certification. I believe in a holistic/mind,body, spirit approach to therapy.
My name is Alexandria Grim or Lexy for short. I am a licensed professional counselor and owner of Breaking Free Counseling and Consulting Services. I have a B.A. in African American Studies and a minor in Sociology from the University of Mn. I also have a M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. My counseling style is eclectic, integrative and intuitive in nature. Specifically, my approach blends a balance between influences of Adlerian therapy, DBT, CBT, TF-CBT and EFT. I am also a spiritual counselor working toward certification. I believe in a holistic/mind,body, spirit approach to therapy.
(763) 343-8272 View (763) 343-8272
Photo of Christina Wiles, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Christina Wiles
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55419
In addition to NVC, I also draw on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and experiential mindfulness practices.
Would you love to deepen the level of emotional intimacy and connection in your relationship? Are you struggling to feel heard and understood by your partner? If so, we could be a great fit! I love helping people better understand and respond to the needs of all people in the relationship. It’s important to me that couples walk away from our work together with skills they can actually use to build the relationship and life they want. I have advanced training in Compassionate Communication (also known as NVC or Nonviolent Communication). I welcome people of all gender identities, sexualities, and relationship structures.
In addition to NVC, I also draw on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and experiential mindfulness practices.
Would you love to deepen the level of emotional intimacy and connection in your relationship? Are you struggling to feel heard and understood by your partner? If so, we could be a great fit! I love helping people better understand and respond to the needs of all people in the relationship. It’s important to me that couples walk away from our work together with skills they can actually use to build the relationship and life they want. I have advanced training in Compassionate Communication (also known as NVC or Nonviolent Communication). I welcome people of all gender identities, sexualities, and relationship structures.
(651) 615-4655 View (651) 615-4655
Photo of Samantha Iverson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Samantha Iverson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with additional training/experience in EMDR, DBT and PrepareEnrich Premarital Inventory.
Maybe you're looking to focus on yourself in this season. Or, perhaps you're needing to attend to your relationship right now. You could be seeking some premarital counsel. Regardless of what brings you here, I would be honored to walk alongside you in the journey and explore resolve together. I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate difficulties in life, communicate better and connect more deeply to themselves and the people they love. Email me, or visit my website www.ivysagecounseling.com and book a free intro call.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with additional training/experience in EMDR, DBT and PrepareEnrich Premarital Inventory.
Maybe you're looking to focus on yourself in this season. Or, perhaps you're needing to attend to your relationship right now. You could be seeking some premarital counsel. Regardless of what brings you here, I would be honored to walk alongside you in the journey and explore resolve together. I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate difficulties in life, communicate better and connect more deeply to themselves and the people they love. Email me, or visit my website www.ivysagecounseling.com and book a free intro call.
(612) 448-3120 View (612) 448-3120
Photo of Joseph Lundsten, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Joseph Lundsten
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55418
I have come to embrace an integrative approach with individuals and couples that uses psychodynamic therapies, emotionally focused therapy, somatic work, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and Christian spiritual integration.
Currently, I am working with adults and couples with varying concerns including: grief and loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma, addiction and substance use, sexual addiction and integrity, faith and spirituality, chronic health issues, OCD and scrupulosity, and relational and family issues.
I have come to embrace an integrative approach with individuals and couples that uses psychodynamic therapies, emotionally focused therapy, somatic work, mindfulness, hypnotherapy, and Christian spiritual integration.
Currently, I am working with adults and couples with varying concerns including: grief and loss, depression, anxiety, PTSD and trauma, addiction and substance use, sexual addiction and integrity, faith and spirituality, chronic health issues, OCD and scrupulosity, and relational and family issues.
(651) 565-6987 View (651) 565-6987
Photo of Aspen Counseling, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Aspen Counseling
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55400  (Online Only)
I am trained in use of EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Send me an email to schedule a free virtual consultation. I work with people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, family issues, parenting and behavioral problems, work stress, trauma and abuse issues, autism spectrum disorders, family therapy, adoption issues, infertility, and self esteem issues.
I am trained in use of EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
Send me an email to schedule a free virtual consultation. I work with people who are dealing with anxiety, depression, family issues, parenting and behavioral problems, work stress, trauma and abuse issues, autism spectrum disorders, family therapy, adoption issues, infertility, and self esteem issues.
(763) 888-8947 View (763) 888-8947
Photo of Sam Waldron, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Sam Waldron
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55417
I incorporate research and teachings from the fields of grief and loss, trauma, attachment theory, narrative therapy, and EFT.
Are you noticing patterns in the way you react, behave, and feel in response to people in your life? Are you tired of feeling stuck in an emotional loop that sometimes feels out of your control? Do you experience anxiety, depression, or difficulty connecting with others?
I incorporate research and teachings from the fields of grief and loss, trauma, attachment theory, narrative therapy, and EFT.
Are you noticing patterns in the way you react, behave, and feel in response to people in your life? Are you tired of feeling stuck in an emotional loop that sometimes feels out of your control? Do you experience anxiety, depression, or difficulty connecting with others?
(763) 373-6509 View (763) 373-6509
Photo of Leslie Boyle-Milroy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Leslie Boyle-Milroy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55401
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, & families to build healthier, happier relationships with themselves and others and boost confidence and sense of self. I am also a Certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) Tapping Practitioner. I have expertise working with individuals managing stress and burnout. I work with my clients to help them design the lives they want - what barriers stand in their way? What strengths are already in place? I have a background in design, which informs my systemic focus & belief that we must look at mental health & relationship problems holistically. I work primarily with adults & teens.
I enjoy working with individuals, couples, & families to build healthier, happier relationships with themselves and others and boost confidence and sense of self. I am also a Certified EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) Tapping Practitioner. I have expertise working with individuals managing stress and burnout. I work with my clients to help them design the lives they want - what barriers stand in their way? What strengths are already in place? I have a background in design, which informs my systemic focus & belief that we must look at mental health & relationship problems holistically. I work primarily with adults & teens.
(952) 900-4463 View (952) 900-4463
Photo of True Kismet Counseling, LLC, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
True Kismet Counseling, LLC
Psychologist, MA, LP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55402  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is rooted in Positive Psychology, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Psychology and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
You may be at a point where you are feeling depressed because you feel alone and misunderstood. Changes in your life are overwhelming. Life and relationships are difficult to manage. You may be thinking that you “should” be stronger and not let things bother you so why do they? Your marriage has a lot of challenges and you and your spouse do not see eye to eye. You are an LGBTQ identified person and are feeling stuck. You are encountering roadblocks in your personal life and relationships. You want so much in life, but nothing seems to come together for you.
My approach to therapy is rooted in Positive Psychology, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Psychology and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
You may be at a point where you are feeling depressed because you feel alone and misunderstood. Changes in your life are overwhelming. Life and relationships are difficult to manage. You may be thinking that you “should” be stronger and not let things bother you so why do they? Your marriage has a lot of challenges and you and your spouse do not see eye to eye. You are an LGBTQ identified person and are feeling stuck. You are encountering roadblocks in your personal life and relationships. You want so much in life, but nothing seems to come together for you.
(954) 799-9628 View (954) 799-9628
Photo of Ben Mushel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Ben Mushel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LGSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55455  (Online Only)
Ben utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to help clients make changes to their thought patterns and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) to support clients’ identification of emotion in the process of making therapeutic changes.
Currently accepting telehealth clients! Healing from the past can be daunting. The vulnerability that comes with uncertainty can expose our fears and insecurities. Licensed Graduate Social Worker, Ben supports clients who have trauma reaction, anxiety and depression as well as those who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unfulfilled. He specifically enjoys working with motivated adults of all ages and has a special interest in treating trauma with EMDR. Ben has additional expertise for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, immigrants, and elders navigating later life stages and changes.
Ben utilizes Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to help clients make changes to their thought patterns and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) to support clients’ identification of emotion in the process of making therapeutic changes.
Currently accepting telehealth clients! Healing from the past can be daunting. The vulnerability that comes with uncertainty can expose our fears and insecurities. Licensed Graduate Social Worker, Ben supports clients who have trauma reaction, anxiety and depression as well as those who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unfulfilled. He specifically enjoys working with motivated adults of all ages and has a special interest in treating trauma with EMDR. Ben has additional expertise for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, immigrants, and elders navigating later life stages and changes.
(651) 538-2830 View (651) 538-2830
Photo of Lukas Urbach, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Minneapolis, MN
Lukas Urbach
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55400
My approach incorporates evidence-based techniques from various therapeutic modalities, including but not limited to Emotionally Focused Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
My passion lies in guiding couples and individuals on a journey of growth and positive transformation. I specialize in providing support to those facing life's challenges, from managing stress to healing trauma and resolving relationship conflicts. My commitment to you is to create a safe and nurturing space where you can openly express yourself and collaboratively explore solutions. Together, we will work on improving your mental well-being, building stronger, healthier relationships, and helping you realize your full potential. My ultimate purpose is to empower you to lead a more fulfilling and content life.
My approach incorporates evidence-based techniques from various therapeutic modalities, including but not limited to Emotionally Focused Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
My passion lies in guiding couples and individuals on a journey of growth and positive transformation. I specialize in providing support to those facing life's challenges, from managing stress to healing trauma and resolving relationship conflicts. My commitment to you is to create a safe and nurturing space where you can openly express yourself and collaboratively explore solutions. Together, we will work on improving your mental well-being, building stronger, healthier relationships, and helping you realize your full potential. My ultimate purpose is to empower you to lead a more fulfilling and content life.
(763) 265-7144 View (763) 265-7144
Photo of Hannah Daniels, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Hannah Daniels
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Therapy Foundations that I love to use in session: Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Play and Art Therapy.
People are unique human beings with a long list of remarkable qualities. Sometimes though, we feel that we have qualities that we need to work on to be our better selves. I work with individuals to find those qualities and strengthen the ones we want to stay around. You may be a good fit for me if you: have ADHD, have children, are a family with adult children in the home, are a lifelong learner, are tired of looking at the positive side all the time, and willing to work on your problems in and out of therapy!
Therapy Foundations that I love to use in session: Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Play and Art Therapy.
People are unique human beings with a long list of remarkable qualities. Sometimes though, we feel that we have qualities that we need to work on to be our better selves. I work with individuals to find those qualities and strengthen the ones we want to stay around. You may be a good fit for me if you: have ADHD, have children, are a family with adult children in the home, are a lifelong learner, are tired of looking at the positive side all the time, and willing to work on your problems in and out of therapy!
(952) 522-7820 View (952) 522-7820
Photo of Taylor Lawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Taylor Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
I've completed two levels of training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which I use for couples.
Scheduling individual clients only. I use a holistic and eclectic approach in therapy because I believe our mind, body, and environment impact our well-being. I want to truly learn about the life experience and driving forces for each person I work with. I specialize in relationships and trauma- childhood neglect or abuse, a family member’s death, high stress jobs (health care, first responders), infidelity and conflict, or abrupt ends or changes in relationships. My goal is not to tell you how to live your life or what to do with your relationships, it's to support you as you find a life that's fulfilling and meaningful to you.
I've completed two levels of training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which I use for couples.
Scheduling individual clients only. I use a holistic and eclectic approach in therapy because I believe our mind, body, and environment impact our well-being. I want to truly learn about the life experience and driving forces for each person I work with. I specialize in relationships and trauma- childhood neglect or abuse, a family member’s death, high stress jobs (health care, first responders), infidelity and conflict, or abrupt ends or changes in relationships. My goal is not to tell you how to live your life or what to do with your relationships, it's to support you as you find a life that's fulfilling and meaningful to you.
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Photo of Irene Greene in Minneapolis, MN
Irene Greene
MSEd
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406  (Online Only)
Welcome. It Is Your Time to become more of the person you want to be. Set goals to address codependency, procrastination, the impacts of trauma, self-criticism, anxiety, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. Increase your assertiveness, communication, and boundary-setting skills. Improve mindfulness and life-work balance. I will combine my compassion, openness, and attentiveness with my 29+ years of experience, training, and knowledge. I offer a space where oppression and injustice are understood as having a direct correlation to our health and well-being. A relaxed confidential space where you are welcome to be your whole self.
Welcome. It Is Your Time to become more of the person you want to be. Set goals to address codependency, procrastination, the impacts of trauma, self-criticism, anxiety, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. Increase your assertiveness, communication, and boundary-setting skills. Improve mindfulness and life-work balance. I will combine my compassion, openness, and attentiveness with my 29+ years of experience, training, and knowledge. I offer a space where oppression and injustice are understood as having a direct correlation to our health and well-being. A relaxed confidential space where you are welcome to be your whole self.
(612) 808-0124 View (612) 808-0124
Photo of Dr. Bailey Dirth, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Dr. Bailey Dirth
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406  (Online Only)
Currently taking on virtual clients on a private pay basis with a sliding scale option. My focus is on supporting women in their journey to heal from past wounds, challenge limiting beliefs, and foster self-worth and compassion. For teens and young adults seeking growth, I specialize in improving communication skills, stress and anxiety management, and the development of healthy coping mechanisms. I also provide couples therapy aimed at enhancing emotional connection, refining communication, and nurturing trust and intimacy.
Currently taking on virtual clients on a private pay basis with a sliding scale option. My focus is on supporting women in their journey to heal from past wounds, challenge limiting beliefs, and foster self-worth and compassion. For teens and young adults seeking growth, I specialize in improving communication skills, stress and anxiety management, and the development of healthy coping mechanisms. I also provide couples therapy aimed at enhancing emotional connection, refining communication, and nurturing trust and intimacy.
(952) 900-4140 View (952) 900-4140
Photo of Asel Kulmeshkenova, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Minneapolis, MN
Asel Kulmeshkenova
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55419
I am passionate about navigating and exploring identity, values, and relationship dynamics in a space where clients can be their unfiltered, unique selves outside of societal norms or expectations. My therapy practice incorporates humor and adapts to the needs of my clients, ranging from "saying it like it is" to supporting and nurturing the vulnerable part that show up.
I am passionate about navigating and exploring identity, values, and relationship dynamics in a space where clients can be their unfiltered, unique selves outside of societal norms or expectations. My therapy practice incorporates humor and adapts to the needs of my clients, ranging from "saying it like it is" to supporting and nurturing the vulnerable part that show up.
(612) 778-4461 View (612) 778-4461
Photo of Brenna McGee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Brenna McGee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55401
There is no "one size fits all" in effective therapy. While we may be all facing some common stressors, each person, couple, or family is different and I adapt accordingly to help foster growth and wellness that fits your life. I am committed to creating a genuine and supportive environment to explore your goals, feelings, and stuck points by integrating a variety of evidence-based modalities. Together we will alleviate stress and interpersonal strain, build balance, and promote long-term wellness. Please visit my website at www.brennamcgee.com for additional information and I look forward to meeting you!
There is no "one size fits all" in effective therapy. While we may be all facing some common stressors, each person, couple, or family is different and I adapt accordingly to help foster growth and wellness that fits your life. I am committed to creating a genuine and supportive environment to explore your goals, feelings, and stuck points by integrating a variety of evidence-based modalities. Together we will alleviate stress and interpersonal strain, build balance, and promote long-term wellness. Please visit my website at www.brennamcgee.com for additional information and I look forward to meeting you!
(612) 324-8175 View (612) 324-8175
Photo of Estefania Alvarez-Zumarraga, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Estefania Alvarez-Zumarraga
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
Creating art promotes emotional awareness, reflection and processing of the human experience, and the beauty of using art therapeutically is that previous art experience is not required. I'm glad to work with clients who have never made art, or make it every day. Whether you want to work on processing experience and emotion, need mental health support, want to use an integrative mental health approach or just need some time to experience mindfulness and stress management tools, I am here to help you utilize art therapy.
Creating art promotes emotional awareness, reflection and processing of the human experience, and the beauty of using art therapeutically is that previous art experience is not required. I'm glad to work with clients who have never made art, or make it every day. Whether you want to work on processing experience and emotion, need mental health support, want to use an integrative mental health approach or just need some time to experience mindfulness and stress management tools, I am here to help you utilize art therapy.
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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.