Photo of Charles J. Habeck Psy.D., LCPC, LAC,PC, Counselor in Billings, MT
Charles J. Habeck Psy.D., LCPC, LAC,PC
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LAC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
The struggle is real- for all of us. I am committed to helping a person grow toward improved insights and coping skills to resolve their problems and related emotions, in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. My goal is for one to learn more about themselves and to function at a higher level in the whole-person dimensions of their life. Whether one is motivated for short-term and situational concerns, or more internally motivated for deeper understanding of self and life-stage fulfillment, the counselor/ client relationship remains paramount as an agent of change.
The struggle is real- for all of us. I am committed to helping a person grow toward improved insights and coping skills to resolve their problems and related emotions, in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. My goal is for one to learn more about themselves and to function at a higher level in the whole-person dimensions of their life. Whether one is motivated for short-term and situational concerns, or more internally motivated for deeper understanding of self and life-stage fulfillment, the counselor/ client relationship remains paramount as an agent of change.
(406) 415-2010 View (406) 415-2010
Photo of Wellness Possebilities, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Wellness Possebilities
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I am a trained EMDR clinician and in couples work use Emotionally Focused and Gottman Methods of treatment.
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
I am a trained EMDR clinician and in couples work use Emotionally Focused and Gottman Methods of treatment.
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
(406) 578-0646 View (406) 578-0646
Photo of Angela Matta, LCSW, LAC, PC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Angela Matta, LCSW, LAC, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EFT, Play Therapy and EMDR.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who enjoys working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their life. I use a client centered approach to help clients feel comfortable enough to be able to work through their issues. I also use a strength based approach when working with clients, to help clients find the strength within themselves to make the positive changes they desire. I strongly believe that the relationship between client and counselor is vital to bring about positive change.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EFT, Play Therapy and EMDR.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who enjoys working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their life. I use a client centered approach to help clients feel comfortable enough to be able to work through their issues. I also use a strength based approach when working with clients, to help clients find the strength within themselves to make the positive changes they desire. I strongly believe that the relationship between client and counselor is vital to bring about positive change.
(406) 578-5042 View (406) 578-5042
Photo of Ashley Novakovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Ashley Novakovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
I’m an EMDR and EFT trained therapist committed to helping you overcome the roadblocks in your life. My work focuses on understanding your experience and creating a safe environment to challenge and change patterns. I come to the therapy relationship with a humanistic approach and a grounding in attachment theory. I believe therapy is a collaborative process to meet your goals.
I’m an EMDR and EFT trained therapist committed to helping you overcome the roadblocks in your life. My work focuses on understanding your experience and creating a safe environment to challenge and change patterns. I come to the therapy relationship with a humanistic approach and a grounding in attachment theory. I believe therapy is a collaborative process to meet your goals.
(406) 412-6869 View (406) 412-6869
Photo of Teri Jackson, Counselor in Billings, MT
Teri Jackson
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
During counseling, I use complementary and highly effective cognitive behavioral and emotionally focused techniques to meet the individual needs of my clients.
We are born whole with all we need to live the life of our dreams. Our experiences and interactions with others shape our beliefs about ourselves and the world around us often overshadowing our personal truth and purpose. With support, we can uncover our truth, find out purpose, and return our whole selves. Beginning with your first session, we will explore where you are, how you got here, and plan to achieve the life you want. You will leave with renewed hope and strength. Contact me so we can schedule a time for you to begin your journey.
During counseling, I use complementary and highly effective cognitive behavioral and emotionally focused techniques to meet the individual needs of my clients.
We are born whole with all we need to live the life of our dreams. Our experiences and interactions with others shape our beliefs about ourselves and the world around us often overshadowing our personal truth and purpose. With support, we can uncover our truth, find out purpose, and return our whole selves. Beginning with your first session, we will explore where you are, how you got here, and plan to achieve the life you want. You will leave with renewed hope and strength. Contact me so we can schedule a time for you to begin your journey.
(406) 510-3683 View (406) 510-3683
Photo of Cynthia Vlahos Palmer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Billings, MT
Cynthia Vlahos Palmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSC , LCPC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily use EMDR, drawing from Mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are past pains and future worries affecting your ability to enjoy the present? Struggling to find joy and meaning in life? My passion is to empower you to heal from past wounds, grow authentically, thrive in relationships, and experience resilient peace. In a safe, supportive atmosphere, I use a psychobiological approach, collaborating to restore your instinctual resilience. With a trauma-informed and holistic perspective, I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I primarily use EMDR, drawing from Mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are past pains and future worries affecting your ability to enjoy the present? Struggling to find joy and meaning in life? My passion is to empower you to heal from past wounds, grow authentically, thrive in relationships, and experience resilient peace. In a safe, supportive atmosphere, I use a psychobiological approach, collaborating to restore your instinctual resilience. With a trauma-informed and holistic perspective, I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(406) 272-7935 View (406) 272-7935
Photo of Joleena Abrams in Billings, MT
Joleena Abrams
CMEMI, CCTSA, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
She uses state of the art therapies, based off of the newest research, such as Hypnotherapy, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT model.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
She uses state of the art therapies, based off of the newest research, such as Hypnotherapy, Multichannel Eye Movement Integration (MEMI), EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT model.
Joleena is Certified in the Treament of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling, and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. Joleena specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(507) 216-9367 View (507) 216-9367
Photo of Caleb Abrams in Billings, MT
Caleb Abrams
CSAT, CCTP, CLC, MA
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Caleb has developed unique skills for working with Addicts and uses state of the art counseling techniques based off of the newest research, such as EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT task model for recovery.
Caleb is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through sex addiction but provides counseling services for all kinds of addictions. He also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb has developed unique skills for working with Addicts and uses state of the art counseling techniques based off of the newest research, such as EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Restoration Therapy techniques and the CSAT task model for recovery.
Caleb is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Ordained Minister, Certified Life Coach, with a Masters of Psychology in Counseling and a Bachelors of Arts in Psychology. Caleb specializes in helping men work through sex addiction but provides counseling services for all kinds of addictions. He also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(614) 660-5482 View (614) 660-5482
Photo of Sunny Mavor Online Counseling, Counselor in Billings, MT
Sunny Mavor Online Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have been in practice since 2005, and have developed a specialty in Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals, a powerful and effective method for healing yourself and your relationship in the midst of challenges.
Hi - Welcome to ONLINE counseling. I have a unique practice that supports people from all over Montana --- after 15 years of seeing couples and individuals in person in my Bozeman office, I'm now working exclusively with individuals online. I have had the honor of helping hundreds of Montanans conquer their depression or anxiety, regain their confidence, improve their communication skills, renew their relationship by working on themselves ... and to get back to being the person they want to be. I think you'll be surprised at how comfortable online therapy feels - it's just like sitting in the same room.
I have been in practice since 2005, and have developed a specialty in Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals, a powerful and effective method for healing yourself and your relationship in the midst of challenges.
Hi - Welcome to ONLINE counseling. I have a unique practice that supports people from all over Montana --- after 15 years of seeing couples and individuals in person in my Bozeman office, I'm now working exclusively with individuals online. I have had the honor of helping hundreds of Montanans conquer their depression or anxiety, regain their confidence, improve their communication skills, renew their relationship by working on themselves ... and to get back to being the person they want to be. I think you'll be surprised at how comfortable online therapy feels - it's just like sitting in the same room.
(406) 306-1415 View (406) 306-1415
Photo of Christy Franklin Professional Services, Counselor in Billings, MT
Christy Franklin Professional Services
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Looking for a therapist can be difficult, finding one that is good fit can be even harder. I am from the Flathead Valley, I grew up here and I am as real as it gets. If you are looking for a therapist that "gets it" and will "get you," you have come to the right place. Having difficulty in your relationships? I am an Emotionally Focused trained therapist, the gold standard when treating marriage, couples and family, and relationships in general. Experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, racing thoughts, PTSD, depression, childhood and adulthood trauma, perinatal and postpartum issues, the loss of a loved one or a pet? I can help!
Looking for a therapist can be difficult, finding one that is good fit can be even harder. I am from the Flathead Valley, I grew up here and I am as real as it gets. If you are looking for a therapist that "gets it" and will "get you," you have come to the right place. Having difficulty in your relationships? I am an Emotionally Focused trained therapist, the gold standard when treating marriage, couples and family, and relationships in general. Experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, racing thoughts, PTSD, depression, childhood and adulthood trauma, perinatal and postpartum issues, the loss of a loved one or a pet? I can help!
(406) 407-9479 View (406) 407-9479
Photo of Somer Radvanyi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Billings, MT
Somer Radvanyi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I use a client-centered hybrid approach drawing from models/skills such as solution focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, structural therapy, DBT, emotionally focused, and others.
I'm licensed in WA, ID & MT. I'm an AAMFT Supervisor Candidate. Burdens of trauma can impact your love life, work life, friendships, and how you see yourself in the world. Each person is doing the very best they can. Within you are strengths I want to build on. Working together we will come up with strategies tailored to you. I work with military families, couples, adults, teens, and foster youth with various challenges (ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, social difficulties, etc.) I provide private pay reintegration/reunification counseling.
I use a client-centered hybrid approach drawing from models/skills such as solution focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, structural therapy, DBT, emotionally focused, and others.
I'm licensed in WA, ID & MT. I'm an AAMFT Supervisor Candidate. Burdens of trauma can impact your love life, work life, friendships, and how you see yourself in the world. Each person is doing the very best they can. Within you are strengths I want to build on. Working together we will come up with strategies tailored to you. I work with military families, couples, adults, teens, and foster youth with various challenges (ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, social difficulties, etc.) I provide private pay reintegration/reunification counseling.
(509) 992-8276 View (509) 992-8276
Photo of Melissa Tschetter, Counselor in Billings, MT
Melissa Tschetter
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
My primary goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place for my clients to explore the factors and forces at work in their lives and exert some control over those forces. Only when we participate consciously in the changes within ourselves and the world around us, can we give direction to and exert influence on them. Everyone has a different starting point and desired outcome in therapy, so we will always begin by identifying your individual needs and goals while forming our therapeutic alliance. It is my sincere desire to help people advance past whatever may be hindering their development and peace.
My primary goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place for my clients to explore the factors and forces at work in their lives and exert some control over those forces. Only when we participate consciously in the changes within ourselves and the world around us, can we give direction to and exert influence on them. Everyone has a different starting point and desired outcome in therapy, so we will always begin by identifying your individual needs and goals while forming our therapeutic alliance. It is my sincere desire to help people advance past whatever may be hindering their development and peace.
(406) 571-8304 View (406) 571-8304
Photo of Rebecca Baumgardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Rebecca Baumgardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am a dually Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Addiction Counselor. Perhaps you have arrived here, looking for a way to better manage a difficult situation or season of life, to work through life altering grief/loss, to manage uncomfortable symptoms, or maybe even, to heal from a painful past with the hope of finally feeling free. I truly enjoy working with individuals who are committed to knowing themselves on a deeper level, so they are better equipped to make the changes they hope for in their life. I value human connection, and provide care in a shame free, judgment free, and collaborative way.
Hello! I am a dually Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Addiction Counselor. Perhaps you have arrived here, looking for a way to better manage a difficult situation or season of life, to work through life altering grief/loss, to manage uncomfortable symptoms, or maybe even, to heal from a painful past with the hope of finally feeling free. I truly enjoy working with individuals who are committed to knowing themselves on a deeper level, so they are better equipped to make the changes they hope for in their life. I value human connection, and provide care in a shame free, judgment free, and collaborative way.
(406) 631-1974 View (406) 631-1974
Photo of Brittnee Olson, Counselor in Billings, MT
Brittnee Olson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Are you struggling with anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life transition? At times we all need guidance sorting out life's complexities. As a therapist, my role is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths, and regain control of your life. I work with children, teens, and young adults who are needing assistance in processing their thoughts and emotions, while navigating the challenges that come with each developmental stage.
Are you struggling with anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life transition? At times we all need guidance sorting out life's complexities. As a therapist, my role is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths, and regain control of your life. I work with children, teens, and young adults who are needing assistance in processing their thoughts and emotions, while navigating the challenges that come with each developmental stage.
(406) 732-2721 View (406) 732-2721
Photo of Lindsey Suchy, Counselor in Billings, MT
Lindsey Suchy
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Are you seeking a space to be heard? To express without fear of judgment? A neutral party to listen and reflect? In my experience, listening is a skill that is not easily mastered. I offer the kind of listening your friends and your family cannot provide, as they may be too close to you and too close to the situation to be able to hear and see things clearly. Counseling provides a space for you to be seen, and to learn to embrace your unique perception. You need to be heard to understand how you think, and to be able to see how you are perceived by others. This will help you find harmony in your relationships.
Are you seeking a space to be heard? To express without fear of judgment? A neutral party to listen and reflect? In my experience, listening is a skill that is not easily mastered. I offer the kind of listening your friends and your family cannot provide, as they may be too close to you and too close to the situation to be able to hear and see things clearly. Counseling provides a space for you to be seen, and to learn to embrace your unique perception. You need to be heard to understand how you think, and to be able to see how you are perceived by others. This will help you find harmony in your relationships.
(406) 313-8388 View (406) 313-8388
Photo of Growth Mindset, LLC, Counselor in Billings, MT
Growth Mindset, LLC
Counselor, MS, PCLC, ACLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
My name is Jesse Alcorn. I work with people who struggle with acceptance, difficulties, change, or lingering emotionally impacting stressors. If you have anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, ambivalence, relationship issues, etc. I believe I may be of assistance! If you want to come to therapy to have a better, healthier outlook on life in general or your unique situation, Growth Mindset may be able to assist in that transformative process. I believe life is about growth and continuing to challenge ourselves to strive toward optimization. I also do Christian counseling specific if you or your loved one is interested.
My name is Jesse Alcorn. I work with people who struggle with acceptance, difficulties, change, or lingering emotionally impacting stressors. If you have anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, ambivalence, relationship issues, etc. I believe I may be of assistance! If you want to come to therapy to have a better, healthier outlook on life in general or your unique situation, Growth Mindset may be able to assist in that transformative process. I believe life is about growth and continuing to challenge ourselves to strive toward optimization. I also do Christian counseling specific if you or your loved one is interested.
(406) 747-0862 View (406) 747-0862
Photo of Dragonfly Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Dragonfly Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
Waitlist Is Now Open! When clients visit with us, you will get therapists who are invested in your goals and in your journey to achieve those goals. Clients coping with anxiety, depression, gender identity, LGBTQ+ concerns, school based issues, family stressors, life transitions, losses, and other mental health concerns are our ideal people to work with. Together we can help you live your best life.
Waitlist Is Now Open! When clients visit with us, you will get therapists who are invested in your goals and in your journey to achieve those goals. Clients coping with anxiety, depression, gender identity, LGBTQ+ concerns, school based issues, family stressors, life transitions, losses, and other mental health concerns are our ideal people to work with. Together we can help you live your best life.
(406) 296-5459 View (406) 296-5459
Photo of Kirsten Pett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Kirsten Pett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
You are the only expert in *your* life. As Carl Rogers did, I believe that all people have the ability to bring about meaningful change in their lives, and a my role is to guide you to a greater understanding of that power, while gaining new, positive skills. Level UP! I continually strive to demonstrate empathy and unconditional positive regard. Life is hard enough as it is - getting help shouldn't be just another stressor on top of your never-ending To Do List. Stop listening to that voice in your head that tells you that you aren't good enough/strong enough/smart enough/busy enough/making enough. That voice is wrong.
You are the only expert in *your* life. As Carl Rogers did, I believe that all people have the ability to bring about meaningful change in their lives, and a my role is to guide you to a greater understanding of that power, while gaining new, positive skills. Level UP! I continually strive to demonstrate empathy and unconditional positive regard. Life is hard enough as it is - getting help shouldn't be just another stressor on top of your never-ending To Do List. Stop listening to that voice in your head that tells you that you aren't good enough/strong enough/smart enough/busy enough/making enough. That voice is wrong.
(406) 384-5788 View (406) 384-5788
Photo of Christine K Duda, Counselor in Billings, MT
Christine K Duda
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I am the owner of Summit Healing Center and am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Nationally Certified Counselor. Do you feel like things are unbalanced, unmanageable and overwhelming? I believe thru all of life's challenges and obstacles we have a potential hidden within us that with support, empathy and compassion we can achieve and sustain. I am committed to supporting you find balance and serenity in your life, while learning and growing to make life long changes. I have 7+ years as a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10+ years in the helping profession.
I am the owner of Summit Healing Center and am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Nationally Certified Counselor. Do you feel like things are unbalanced, unmanageable and overwhelming? I believe thru all of life's challenges and obstacles we have a potential hidden within us that with support, empathy and compassion we can achieve and sustain. I am committed to supporting you find balance and serenity in your life, while learning and growing to make life long changes. I have 7+ years as a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10+ years in the helping profession.
(406) 306-1691 View (406) 306-1691
Photo of Eve Benson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Billings, MT
Eve Benson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I have worked in Mental Health for over 24 years, and I am passionate about empowering my clients. I have experience working with individuals and families through all stages of life. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQ community and senior citizens.
I have worked in Mental Health for over 24 years, and I am passionate about empowering my clients. I have experience working with individuals and families through all stages of life. I particularly enjoy working with the LGBTQ community and senior citizens.
(406) 345-6257 View (406) 345-6257

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.