Emotionally Focused Therapists in Ramsey County, MN

Photo of Laura Battaglia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Laura Battaglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
You're feeling stuck in a pattern that isn't working anymore, struggling at work or in your relationships, having difficulty reaching a meaningful goal, or are working to find direction or purpose in your life. After a series of challenges, you may notice that your old coping strategies are not working in the ways you expect, and you are interested in a new perspective and tools. My clients seek and discover new understanding of themselves, their emotional reactions, and their values through the process of therapy.
You're feeling stuck in a pattern that isn't working anymore, struggling at work or in your relationships, having difficulty reaching a meaningful goal, or are working to find direction or purpose in your life. After a series of challenges, you may notice that your old coping strategies are not working in the ways you expect, and you are interested in a new perspective and tools. My clients seek and discover new understanding of themselves, their emotional reactions, and their values through the process of therapy.
(952) 243-3947 View (952) 243-3947
Photo of Ellie Michaletz, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Ramsey County, MN
Ellie Michaletz
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA
Verified Verified
As a Christian clinical intern, I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), CBT, and Narrative Therapy through a biblical lens.
I have a passion working with couples, families, parents, adolescents, coaches, and athletes. Whether a couple or client is coming in with feelings of loneliness, separation, frustration, anxiousness, depression, shame, or helplessness, I strive to create a space for every person to share their story and grow into the person they desire to be.
As a Christian clinical intern, I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), CBT, and Narrative Therapy through a biblical lens.
I have a passion working with couples, families, parents, adolescents, coaches, and athletes. Whether a couple or client is coming in with feelings of loneliness, separation, frustration, anxiousness, depression, shame, or helplessness, I strive to create a space for every person to share their story and grow into the person they desire to be.
(651) 615-2737 View (651) 615-2737
Photo of Allison Cross, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Allison Cross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55126
I am also trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which is specifically focused on helping to improve relationships by helping people get out of their stuck patterns.
Have you had repeated difficulties in relationships that leave you feeling as if you are forever stuck? Do you find yourself wanting to make changes but being unable to make these changes happen? Are you feeling confused or uncertain about yourself or the future and need someone to talk to? These are all excellent reasons to seek therapy. I work specifically with people who struggle in relationships, have histories of trauma or have issues with self-worth, anxiety or depression.
I am also trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which is specifically focused on helping to improve relationships by helping people get out of their stuck patterns.
Have you had repeated difficulties in relationships that leave you feeling as if you are forever stuck? Do you find yourself wanting to make changes but being unable to make these changes happen? Are you feeling confused or uncertain about yourself or the future and need someone to talk to? These are all excellent reasons to seek therapy. I work specifically with people who struggle in relationships, have histories of trauma or have issues with self-worth, anxiety or depression.
(612) 260-7111 View (612) 260-7111
Photo of Lauri Ink, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ramsey County, MN
Lauri Ink
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, JD
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I am both trained and currently obtaining certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, work about which I am passionate.
I have a warm and compassionate, client-centered approach. I believe that we all have the natural tendency to grow and heal, given the right conditions. My goal is to be a steadying, nonjudgmental presence alongside you in your healing journey. I will first focus on fostering emotional safety and trust. I will then support you to develop or deepen self acceptance, reach identified goals, and to live authentically. We will learn from interactions in our work together, as the therapeutic relationship can be a powerful base for change. Ultimately, you will find ways to better navigate your life.
I am both trained and currently obtaining certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, work about which I am passionate.
I have a warm and compassionate, client-centered approach. I believe that we all have the natural tendency to grow and heal, given the right conditions. My goal is to be a steadying, nonjudgmental presence alongside you in your healing journey. I will first focus on fostering emotional safety and trust. I will then support you to develop or deepen self acceptance, reach identified goals, and to live authentically. We will learn from interactions in our work together, as the therapeutic relationship can be a powerful base for change. Ultimately, you will find ways to better navigate your life.
(651) 273-1875 View (651) 273-1875
Photo of Julie Kraai, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Julie Kraai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mahtomedi, MN 55115
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize tools from the Gottman Method, Relational Life Therapy, EFT (both "tapping" and Emotionally Focused Therapy), and EMDR.
I like to do relational work with partners and individuals--trying to navigate how to be in relationship with others can be really stressful and feel impossible. Common issues I work with are boundaries, communication, infidelity, maternal mental health, new parenting dynamics, self-esteem, family-of-origin issues, deconstructing and reconstructing faith, tools for a better relationship, and small "t" and big "T" traumas.
I utilize tools from the Gottman Method, Relational Life Therapy, EFT (both "tapping" and Emotionally Focused Therapy), and EMDR.
I like to do relational work with partners and individuals--trying to navigate how to be in relationship with others can be really stressful and feel impossible. Common issues I work with are boundaries, communication, infidelity, maternal mental health, new parenting dynamics, self-esteem, family-of-origin issues, deconstructing and reconstructing faith, tools for a better relationship, and small "t" and big "T" traumas.
(651) 505-3201 View (651) 505-3201
Photo of Emily Bade, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Emily Bade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MN 55117
Some techniques I use regularly include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Brainspotting .
Most of us experience barriers at one time or another, be it trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, or another challenge. Therapy is a place to unpack our experiences, understand the meaning we’ve made, heal and grow. I see myself as a partner and guide in helping clients improve their lives and overcome challenges. I practice from a systems and attachment perspective, believing that we are interconnected with those around us, and impacted by greater societal forces daily. I believe we are all seeking connection, to be known, to be loved and understood.
Some techniques I use regularly include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Brainspotting .
Most of us experience barriers at one time or another, be it trauma, loss, depression, anxiety, or another challenge. Therapy is a place to unpack our experiences, understand the meaning we’ve made, heal and grow. I see myself as a partner and guide in helping clients improve their lives and overcome challenges. I practice from a systems and attachment perspective, believing that we are interconnected with those around us, and impacted by greater societal forces daily. I believe we are all seeking connection, to be known, to be loved and understood.
(651) 615-3367 View (651) 615-3367
Photo of Jordan Lindh, Psy.D. LP, Psychologist in Ramsey County, MN
Jordan Lindh, Psy.D. LP
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
Life is a journey with many surprises and unknowns. I believe we all do the best we can to navigate this journey, but sometimes we get stuck along the way. In my work with individuals and couples, I hope to accompany you on this journey, while promoting new ways of being and relating over time. Previous relationships and experiences greatly impact the way we see the world and how we currently relate to others. Our work together will include increasing awareness around how these factors might be impacting your life today, while exploring new and adaptive ways of relating to self and others.
Life is a journey with many surprises and unknowns. I believe we all do the best we can to navigate this journey, but sometimes we get stuck along the way. In my work with individuals and couples, I hope to accompany you on this journey, while promoting new ways of being and relating over time. Previous relationships and experiences greatly impact the way we see the world and how we currently relate to others. Our work together will include increasing awareness around how these factors might be impacting your life today, while exploring new and adaptive ways of relating to self and others.
(651) 395-7415 View (651) 395-7415
Photo of Ben Mushel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ramsey County, MN
Ben Mushel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114  (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 Dionne Trice, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Dionne Trice
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I center Internal Family Systems (IFS), EFT, Experiential therapy, and brainspotting.
As a therapist, I bring nearly 20 yrs working with domestic violence, 30 yrs of ministry, community activism, nearly 40 yrs of marriage & the tragic loss of a child. Through it, I've grown in my understanding of the impact of systems, trauma and loss on people. As an African American therapist I specialize in working with minority stress and other trauma related to being part of an marginalized group. My areas of focus include: grief & loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationship issues, perinatal mental health, communication issues, Interpersonal Violence, spiritual abuse/trauma, and stress management.
I center Internal Family Systems (IFS), EFT, Experiential therapy, and brainspotting.
As a therapist, I bring nearly 20 yrs working with domestic violence, 30 yrs of ministry, community activism, nearly 40 yrs of marriage & the tragic loss of a child. Through it, I've grown in my understanding of the impact of systems, trauma and loss on people. As an African American therapist I specialize in working with minority stress and other trauma related to being part of an marginalized group. My areas of focus include: grief & loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal relationship issues, perinatal mental health, communication issues, Interpersonal Violence, spiritual abuse/trauma, and stress management.
(651) 427-3243 View (651) 427-3243
Photo of Amy M. Joyce, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Amy M. Joyce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I work with couples and individuals offering Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Expressive Therapies, in addition to traditional talk therapy.
Welcome to a place of support for those relationships most important to you. I offer therapy in a relational context which explores the interconnectedness between self and others. I believe this is vital to well living. When relationships are out of balance, disconnectedness can occur. By creating awareness, empowerment can be found and utilized for change. I invite you to better navigate yourself and your relations!
I work with couples and individuals offering Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Expressive Therapies, in addition to traditional talk therapy.
Welcome to a place of support for those relationships most important to you. I offer therapy in a relational context which explores the interconnectedness between self and others. I believe this is vital to well living. When relationships are out of balance, disconnectedness can occur. By creating awareness, empowerment can be found and utilized for change. I invite you to better navigate yourself and your relations!
(612) 564-4332 View (612) 564-4332
Photo of Jessica Schiller, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ramsey County, MN
Jessica Schiller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Brighton, MN 55112
Waitlist for new clients
I use collaborative, attachment, somatic, and strength-based approaches, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems techniques among others.
I believe through trusting, compassionate relationships and connecting with the wisdom of the body and the inner Self, it is possible to find wholeness, growth, and fulfillment. I have been a Licensed Alcohol and Drug counselor since 2008, working with substance use and trauma, before completing my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with couples and individuals ages 17 and older. Anxiety, trauma, attachment injuries, healing from the impacts of addiction, and couples work focusing on reducing protective responses & increasing feelings of safety and security are specialty areas of mine.
I use collaborative, attachment, somatic, and strength-based approaches, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems techniques among others.
I believe through trusting, compassionate relationships and connecting with the wisdom of the body and the inner Self, it is possible to find wholeness, growth, and fulfillment. I have been a Licensed Alcohol and Drug counselor since 2008, working with substance use and trauma, before completing my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with couples and individuals ages 17 and older. Anxiety, trauma, attachment injuries, healing from the impacts of addiction, and couples work focusing on reducing protective responses & increasing feelings of safety and security are specialty areas of mine.
(612) 706-9630 View (612) 706-9630
Photo of Kelsie Ballentine, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ramsey County, MN
Kelsie Ballentine
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
My training in attachment theories and Emotionally Focused Therapy help me work with individuals and couples to gain insight in their individual and relational contexts.
In my work with clients, I seek to meet them where they are. From there, we can begin our work together. The experiences and relationships in your life have a great impact on who you are today. And you are the best expert in your life. I want to honor those things while also helping you to grow and move towards who you want to be. I view the therapy as a collaborative space where we can work together to find growth, healing, and change.
My training in attachment theories and Emotionally Focused Therapy help me work with individuals and couples to gain insight in their individual and relational contexts.
In my work with clients, I seek to meet them where they are. From there, we can begin our work together. The experiences and relationships in your life have a great impact on who you are today. And you are the best expert in your life. I want to honor those things while also helping you to grow and move towards who you want to be. I view the therapy as a collaborative space where we can work together to find growth, healing, and change.
(651) 401-4796 View (651) 401-4796
Photo of Patty Ostberg-Speiker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Patty Ostberg-Speiker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Gottman and Emotionally Focused Attachment based couples therapy, and certification in an evidence based positive parenting curriculum.
Current afternoon openings. I specialize in helping individuals and couples feel better to improve their relationships. Past hurts and experiences can cloud decision making in the present and relating to each other. Especially when it comes to stressors of daily responsibilities like marriage and parenting. Let’s work together using evidence-based techniques to stop your negative thoughts so you can make more positive mindset decisions. Triggers feel awful and there are proven remedies to help stop them. Together through therapy we can eliminate negative thoughts and memories that prevent you from being the best version of yourself.
Gottman and Emotionally Focused Attachment based couples therapy, and certification in an evidence based positive parenting curriculum.
Current afternoon openings. I specialize in helping individuals and couples feel better to improve their relationships. Past hurts and experiences can cloud decision making in the present and relating to each other. Especially when it comes to stressors of daily responsibilities like marriage and parenting. Let’s work together using evidence-based techniques to stop your negative thoughts so you can make more positive mindset decisions. Triggers feel awful and there are proven remedies to help stop them. Together through therapy we can eliminate negative thoughts and memories that prevent you from being the best version of yourself.
(651) 409-9107 View (651) 409-9107
Photo of Vessela Kouneva, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Vessela Kouneva
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55126  (Online Only)
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which is a couple's therapy approach that is highly effective in reducing couples' distress and increasing their relationship satisfaction.
OPENINGS for Couple's Therapy! Are you struggling with your relationship? Do you fight and have difficulty communicating with your partner? I understand the pain of feeling judged, shut out and rejected and the fear of losing the most important relationship in you life. I can provide a safe space for you and your partner to ask each other and answer one of the most important questions in relationships: "Are you there for me?" I can help you strengthen your bond and rekindle your passion. Call me for a free 15 minutes consultation.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) which is a couple's therapy approach that is highly effective in reducing couples' distress and increasing their relationship satisfaction.
OPENINGS for Couple's Therapy! Are you struggling with your relationship? Do you fight and have difficulty communicating with your partner? I understand the pain of feeling judged, shut out and rejected and the fear of losing the most important relationship in you life. I can provide a safe space for you and your partner to ask each other and answer one of the most important questions in relationships: "Are you there for me?" I can help you strengthen your bond and rekindle your passion. Call me for a free 15 minutes consultation.
(651) 315-8413 View (651) 315-8413
Photo of Simon Everest, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ramsey County, MN
Simon Everest
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and often use this approach with my clients.
Letting a therapist in on the difficulty in your life can be vulnerable and scary. I strive to create a safe place for couples and relationships to explore themselves and to find a new way of being that feels deeply authentic and connected. My therapeutic approach is to be collaborative, sensitive, sometimes silly, and always genuine. I would love to connect!
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and often use this approach with my clients.
Letting a therapist in on the difficulty in your life can be vulnerable and scary. I strive to create a safe place for couples and relationships to explore themselves and to find a new way of being that feels deeply authentic and connected. My therapeutic approach is to be collaborative, sensitive, sometimes silly, and always genuine. I would love to connect!
(651) 505-5521 View (651) 505-5521
Photo of Sam Waldron, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ramsey County, MN
Sam Waldron
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
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 Sandra Struthers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ramsey County, MN
Sandra Struthers
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55126
Your healing will be supported with evidence-based interventions drawn from IFS, EFT, Narrative and Somatic theories.
Are you seeking individual (teen and adult), couple/partnership, or family therapy? With warmth, humor and “real talk,” I will support you in navigating personal and inter-personal challenges, and creating an authentic life that's in integrity with your values. My approach with clients is informal and collaborative - you are the expert on your life! So, let's work together to create the life you want. FYI: I currently only have new client availability with a clinic that accepts private pay, FSA/HSA cards, or out-of-network insurance coverage.
Your healing will be supported with evidence-based interventions drawn from IFS, EFT, Narrative and Somatic theories.
Are you seeking individual (teen and adult), couple/partnership, or family therapy? With warmth, humor and “real talk,” I will support you in navigating personal and inter-personal challenges, and creating an authentic life that's in integrity with your values. My approach with clients is informal and collaborative - you are the expert on your life! So, let's work together to create the life you want. FYI: I currently only have new client availability with a clinic that accepts private pay, FSA/HSA cards, or out-of-network insurance coverage.
(612) 324-5525 View (612) 324-5525
Photo of Karen Knab, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Karen Knab
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
I have additional training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Do you struggle with perfectionism, a lot of internal pressure, and responsibility? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and struggling in certain areas of your life? Do you have a hard time expressing yourself and being heard in relationships? I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with relationships of all kinds - family, workplace, romantic - and want to feel less stress and tension, and more harmony in their interpersonal relationships.
I have additional training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Do you struggle with perfectionism, a lot of internal pressure, and responsibility? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and struggling in certain areas of your life? Do you have a hard time expressing yourself and being heard in relationships? I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with relationships of all kinds - family, workplace, romantic - and want to feel less stress and tension, and more harmony in their interpersonal relationships.
(651) 661-3471 View (651) 661-3471
Photo of Calli Simpson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ramsey County, MN
Calli Simpson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55101
I utilize narrative, IFS, ACT, and EFT techniques to ensure your therapy experience is beneficial and helpful for your specific goals.
Hi! I'm Calli and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in working with couples and adults who are experiencing struggles such as: communication challenges, differing wants or values than their partners, feelings of anxiety, trauma triggers, unhappiness in life, or confusion about the current path you are on in life. These struggles are difficult to experience, and you are not alone in feeling lost, hopeless, or stuck. I am glad you are here and are open to exploring what you are experiencing and how to make adjustments to increase your sense of safety, comfort, empowerment, and connectedness- with yourself and others.
I utilize narrative, IFS, ACT, and EFT techniques to ensure your therapy experience is beneficial and helpful for your specific goals.
Hi! I'm Calli and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I specialize in working with couples and adults who are experiencing struggles such as: communication challenges, differing wants or values than their partners, feelings of anxiety, trauma triggers, unhappiness in life, or confusion about the current path you are on in life. These struggles are difficult to experience, and you are not alone in feeling lost, hopeless, or stuck. I am glad you are here and are open to exploring what you are experiencing and how to make adjustments to increase your sense of safety, comfort, empowerment, and connectedness- with yourself and others.
(952) 592-1742 View (952) 592-1742
Photo of Renew and Restore Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ramsey County, MN
Renew and Restore Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dellwood, MN 55110  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Trista Weber and I believe relational wellness includes a healthy relationship with others as well as ourselves. I work with clients that find themselves struggling in their current relationships. I have experience with a variety of issues including, communication and conflict, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, intimacy issues, parenting support, premarital counseling and blended families. I also have additional certification for working with couple specific issues using Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy techniques.
Hi! I'm Trista Weber and I believe relational wellness includes a healthy relationship with others as well as ourselves. I work with clients that find themselves struggling in their current relationships. I have experience with a variety of issues including, communication and conflict, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, intimacy issues, parenting support, premarital counseling and blended families. I also have additional certification for working with couple specific issues using Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy techniques.
(612) 284-2306 View (612) 284-2306

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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.