Photo of Lauren Baker, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Lauren Baker
Counselor, MA, LMCHA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Lauren is an experience clinician who has worked in a variety of settings before finding a home specializing in women's health, sexual disorders and couple's work. She has certifications in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and wrote her thesis on vulvodynia. Lauren is down to earth, candid and empathic clinician who hopes clients can find freedom and play.
Lauren is an experience clinician who has worked in a variety of settings before finding a home specializing in women's health, sexual disorders and couple's work. She has certifications in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and wrote her thesis on vulvodynia. Lauren is down to earth, candid and empathic clinician who hopes clients can find freedom and play.
(984) 538-7591 View (984) 538-7591
Photo of Elizabeth McInerney, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Elizabeth McInerney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Specific to couples therapy, I use EFT.
I am a counseling psychologist who offers individual and relationship therapy to adolescents and adults. I have expertise in working with those who are experiencing distress due to anxiety, depression, eating concerns, gender dysphoria, relationship conflict, sleep disorders, stress, and trauma. I work best with individuals who seek to deepen their awareness and to explore the nuanced complexities of life.
Specific to couples therapy, I use EFT.
I am a counseling psychologist who offers individual and relationship therapy to adolescents and adults. I have expertise in working with those who are experiencing distress due to anxiety, depression, eating concerns, gender dysphoria, relationship conflict, sleep disorders, stress, and trauma. I work best with individuals who seek to deepen their awareness and to explore the nuanced complexities of life.
(919) 646-3795 x4 View (919) 646-3795 x4
Photo of Jeremy George, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Jeremy George
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606
Waitlist for new clients
My primary specialty is attachment theory. Attachment based modalities include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Families (EFFT). Other areas of speciality include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is effective in treating trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). I am also growing in my ability to apply Internal Family Systems (IFS) in my practice with clients.
My primary specialty is attachment theory. Attachment based modalities include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Therapy for Individuals (EFIT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Families (EFFT). Other areas of speciality include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which is effective in treating trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI). I am also growing in my ability to apply Internal Family Systems (IFS) in my practice with clients.
(919) 535-4590 View (919) 535-4590
Photo of Pressley Cox, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Pressley Cox
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Though I incorporate multiple techniques and theories in session, my approach is primarily rooted in ACT, IFS, & EFT.
You may be seeking therapy because you've noticed something's not working. Your actions aren't aligning with the person you know you are, and you're constantly feeling overwhelmed and stuck in place. My focus is on helping you get "unstuck" and improving the quality of your life. I will gently and actively guide you towards a better relationship with your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you are more capable to take action, achieve your goals, and live the life you desire.
Though I incorporate multiple techniques and theories in session, my approach is primarily rooted in ACT, IFS, & EFT.
You may be seeking therapy because you've noticed something's not working. Your actions aren't aligning with the person you know you are, and you're constantly feeling overwhelmed and stuck in place. My focus is on helping you get "unstuck" and improving the quality of your life. I will gently and actively guide you towards a better relationship with your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so that you are more capable to take action, achieve your goals, and live the life you desire.
(984) 217-1774 View (984) 217-1774
Photo of Yuri Sklad, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Yuri Sklad
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT, CSOTP, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
I am PREPARE/ENRICH certified and received Emotionally Focused Therapy training.
If you are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behavior, wish to overcome the consequences of traumatic experiences, or feel stuck in your life journey, I invite you to contact me. As a therapist, I strive to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment for individuals to gain greater self-awareness and self-regulation. In our work together, we will hold space for difficult emotions, identify patterns that have helped you in the past and may not be serving you now, and develop new skills so that you are able to gently move toward living a more fulfilling life aligned with your values.
I am PREPARE/ENRICH certified and received Emotionally Focused Therapy training.
If you are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behavior, wish to overcome the consequences of traumatic experiences, or feel stuck in your life journey, I invite you to contact me. As a therapist, I strive to provide a non-judgmental and supportive environment for individuals to gain greater self-awareness and self-regulation. In our work together, we will hold space for difficult emotions, identify patterns that have helped you in the past and may not be serving you now, and develop new skills so that you are able to gently move toward living a more fulfilling life aligned with your values.
(984) 464-6110 View (984) 464-6110
Photo of Marc Hardy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Marc Hardy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27610
I am a Black, male therapist originally from Columbus, OH. and now living in Raleigh, NC. I find it a great honor counseling with clients who are just dealing with life's many transitions to doing therapy with those clients that are facing challenging diagnosable mental health issues. I mainly utilize therapeutic techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (e.g. Ellis’s ABC model, thought journaling, cognitive restructuring, etc.) but I also use techniques from Solution Focused Therapy, EFT, DBT and Multisystemic Therapy. I have found that I prefer a person-centered approach, though I will still use goals, contracts and homework.
I am a Black, male therapist originally from Columbus, OH. and now living in Raleigh, NC. I find it a great honor counseling with clients who are just dealing with life's many transitions to doing therapy with those clients that are facing challenging diagnosable mental health issues. I mainly utilize therapeutic techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (e.g. Ellis’s ABC model, thought journaling, cognitive restructuring, etc.) but I also use techniques from Solution Focused Therapy, EFT, DBT and Multisystemic Therapy. I have found that I prefer a person-centered approach, though I will still use goals, contracts and homework.
(984) 205-4884 View (984) 205-4884
Photo of Anna Merkley, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Anna Merkley
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27602  (Online Only)
Whether you are dating and thinking of marriage or have been married 25 years, I'd love to help! I have over 7 years of specialized training in couples therapy, including Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Gottman Level 2 certified.
Have you lost the physical or emotional connection in your marriage? Have you experienced infidelity? Or maybe you just want to communicate better and need some quick tools to improve your relationship? Whatever the reason, nourishing your relationship is one of the best investments you can make. A strong marriage takes work and I'm here to help you put in that work. I am passionate about helping marriages thrive and work to ensure both partners feel validated in our sessions. I also enjoy working with women who want help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, motherhood, grief, self esteem, and work/life balance.
Whether you are dating and thinking of marriage or have been married 25 years, I'd love to help! I have over 7 years of specialized training in couples therapy, including Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Gottman Level 2 certified.
Have you lost the physical or emotional connection in your marriage? Have you experienced infidelity? Or maybe you just want to communicate better and need some quick tools to improve your relationship? Whatever the reason, nourishing your relationship is one of the best investments you can make. A strong marriage takes work and I'm here to help you put in that work. I am passionate about helping marriages thrive and work to ensure both partners feel validated in our sessions. I also enjoy working with women who want help with anxiety, depression, life transitions, motherhood, grief, self esteem, and work/life balance.
(704) 270-6973 View (704) 270-6973
Photo of Emotivate Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Emotivate Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MDiv, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27601
Whether you are a couple, an individual, or a family, I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and trauma informed treatment.
Are you trying to navigate relationship difficulties? Do your conflicts seem to repeat themselves over and over? Perhaps, you and your partner have simply grown distant from each other, or you are just looking for a more intimate bond and connection. Whether you are newly weds, having trouble conceiving, facing infidelity, or empty nesters, there is a tried and true way to navigate these experiences. Your relationship doesn't have to suffer any longer, there is a way through your unique circumstances. Let us help you find the connection that you truly desire in your relationship.
Whether you are a couple, an individual, or a family, I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and trauma informed treatment.
Are you trying to navigate relationship difficulties? Do your conflicts seem to repeat themselves over and over? Perhaps, you and your partner have simply grown distant from each other, or you are just looking for a more intimate bond and connection. Whether you are newly weds, having trouble conceiving, facing infidelity, or empty nesters, there is a tried and true way to navigate these experiences. Your relationship doesn't have to suffer any longer, there is a way through your unique circumstances. Let us help you find the connection that you truly desire in your relationship.
(585) 501-3045 View (585) 501-3045
Photo of Tameka L McFarland, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Tameka L McFarland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, NCC, CPLC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27616
My name is Tameka McFarland. I treat individuals, couples who are dating, planning to get married, currently married, or are considering divorce. I will treat emotional concerns that are affecting intimacy between a client and their partner. I provide support to families who have concerns about parenting. I will see any client ages 16 and up of all ethnicities and sexual orientations. My ideal client would be a couple or family, however, when seeing individuals, I encourage that the client bring another support person that they trust to their sessions. I also provide life coaching services. Telehealth services are also offered.
My name is Tameka McFarland. I treat individuals, couples who are dating, planning to get married, currently married, or are considering divorce. I will treat emotional concerns that are affecting intimacy between a client and their partner. I provide support to families who have concerns about parenting. I will see any client ages 16 and up of all ethnicities and sexual orientations. My ideal client would be a couple or family, however, when seeing individuals, I encourage that the client bring another support person that they trust to their sessions. I also provide life coaching services. Telehealth services are also offered.
(919) 504-5030 View (919) 504-5030
Photo of Amanda Bloom, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Amanda Bloom
Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606
I utilize an integrative approach combining evidenced-based treatment practices of CBT, ACT, and EFT to build upon your strengths, identify life solutions, develop resilience, create healthy and meaningful relationships and cultivate self-acceptance.
I believe that we have all experienced challenging situations or have felt lost at some point in our lives. Taking the leap to seek additional guidance and support takes courage and vulnerability and I believe it cultivates our growth and well-being. Together we collaborate to examine thoughts, emotions and behaviors and identify new tools and solutions that will move you toward a place of worthiness, purpose and authenticity to meet your personalized goals. With over 14 years of experience, I specialize in treating adults who have concerns regarding anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, trauma, and women's issues.
I utilize an integrative approach combining evidenced-based treatment practices of CBT, ACT, and EFT to build upon your strengths, identify life solutions, develop resilience, create healthy and meaningful relationships and cultivate self-acceptance.
I believe that we have all experienced challenging situations or have felt lost at some point in our lives. Taking the leap to seek additional guidance and support takes courage and vulnerability and I believe it cultivates our growth and well-being. Together we collaborate to examine thoughts, emotions and behaviors and identify new tools and solutions that will move you toward a place of worthiness, purpose and authenticity to meet your personalized goals. With over 14 years of experience, I specialize in treating adults who have concerns regarding anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, trauma, and women's issues.
(919) 858-2692 View (919) 858-2692
Photo of Dr. Johana Kuemerle-Pinillos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Dr. Johana Kuemerle-Pinillos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27628  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use evidence models like EFT and EMDR to support your journey.
Most people go into relationships with big hopes, a vision of a good future, and the desire to have a fulfilling life. However, somewhere in the process difficulties start to arise, and this hope soon becomes frustration and disappointment. You start to feel discouraged, and might begin to have thoughts of ending the relationship because it is all too much. Whether you are in a new relationship, or you have been together for decades, you are not alone. Every couple experiences a range of difficulties, you might be struggling with communication, constant arguing, or even infidelity. Regardless, I can help you. FREE 15 min consult!
I use evidence models like EFT and EMDR to support your journey.
Most people go into relationships with big hopes, a vision of a good future, and the desire to have a fulfilling life. However, somewhere in the process difficulties start to arise, and this hope soon becomes frustration and disappointment. You start to feel discouraged, and might begin to have thoughts of ending the relationship because it is all too much. Whether you are in a new relationship, or you have been together for decades, you are not alone. Every couple experiences a range of difficulties, you might be struggling with communication, constant arguing, or even infidelity. Regardless, I can help you. FREE 15 min consult!
(860) 901-0327 View (860) 901-0327
Photo of Tiffany Ann Birt, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Raleigh, NC
Tiffany Ann Birt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614
I have an eclectic style of conducting therapeutic services including: CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, EFT and Existential Therapy.
“Im really glad you're here”, is a phrase you’ll hear often in my therapy room as I find it to be a true honor to be a part of my clients’ lives and I am grateful for the opportunity to be trusted to walk beside them on their therapeutic journey. During my last year of my studies I found my passion in working with adolescents, teens, adults, couples. I treat multiple areas of difficulty and challenge in my clients’ lives while providing a safe, trustful, and comfortable space to process together. I truly believe in collaborate work with my individuals and families to help them reach their full potential and healthiest selves.
I have an eclectic style of conducting therapeutic services including: CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Mindfulness, EFT and Existential Therapy.
“Im really glad you're here”, is a phrase you’ll hear often in my therapy room as I find it to be a true honor to be a part of my clients’ lives and I am grateful for the opportunity to be trusted to walk beside them on their therapeutic journey. During my last year of my studies I found my passion in working with adolescents, teens, adults, couples. I treat multiple areas of difficulty and challenge in my clients’ lives while providing a safe, trustful, and comfortable space to process together. I truly believe in collaborate work with my individuals and families to help them reach their full potential and healthiest selves.
(919) 626-9788 View (919) 626-9788
Photo of Meredith Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Meredith Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, APHSW-C
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It’s easy to overthink or become overwhelmed reading descriptions of therapists. Trust your gut and schedule a free consultation to guide you. I'm Meredith Jones and I have over a decade of clinical experience helping others with anxiety, relationship issues, substance use, trauma and grief. Unexpected changes or uncertainty around career, home life, or health can be isolating and create feelings of instability. If you need help connecting to your motivation for change, want to look at patterns no longer serving you well, desire to strengthen your coping skills or need help stilling your mind to live in the moment I've got you.
It’s easy to overthink or become overwhelmed reading descriptions of therapists. Trust your gut and schedule a free consultation to guide you. I'm Meredith Jones and I have over a decade of clinical experience helping others with anxiety, relationship issues, substance use, trauma and grief. Unexpected changes or uncertainty around career, home life, or health can be isolating and create feelings of instability. If you need help connecting to your motivation for change, want to look at patterns no longer serving you well, desire to strengthen your coping skills or need help stilling your mind to live in the moment I've got you.
(919) 887-9352 View (919) 887-9352
Photo of Kelly White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kelly White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is full of twist and turns; ups and downs. Learning to manage your emotions and remain mentally stable gives you the ability to endure the unexpected and unknown. Focusing on your strengths and recognizing your weaknesses provides you the opportunity and ability to move forward. Understanding the neurological impact of trauma, fear, disappointment and hurt, gives you the opportunity to adjust and manage life’s complexities. Let’s talk about moving forward.
Life is full of twist and turns; ups and downs. Learning to manage your emotions and remain mentally stable gives you the ability to endure the unexpected and unknown. Focusing on your strengths and recognizing your weaknesses provides you the opportunity and ability to move forward. Understanding the neurological impact of trauma, fear, disappointment and hurt, gives you the opportunity to adjust and manage life’s complexities. Let’s talk about moving forward.
(919) 277-0253 View (919) 277-0253
Photo of Mallory Parker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Mallory Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604
Mallory Parker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with 5 years of experience in outpatient therapy. Mallory takes a person-centered approach and ensures that children, adolescents, and adults feel valued, listened to, and are able to meet their unique goals. She specializes in anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, and stress management. Mallory completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Baylor University.
Mallory Parker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist with 5 years of experience in outpatient therapy. Mallory takes a person-centered approach and ensures that children, adolescents, and adults feel valued, listened to, and are able to meet their unique goals. She specializes in anxiety, trauma, depression, substance use, and stress management. Mallory completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Baylor University.
(984) 249-2905 View (984) 249-2905
Photo of Laye Traore, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Laye Traore
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am accepting new clients and have immediate availability! Life can sometimes push us into becoming a version of ourselves we don't recognize anymore. My ideal client doesn't just have one issue...they have many issues, like we all do! Even when your needs cant be easily defined, I will help you open up to making healthy behavioral changes. I will help you learn new coping skills that will help you move closer to your goals. I will support you in becoming the you, you want to be! I also work with couples and can help you find the relationship you're dreaming of.
I am accepting new clients and have immediate availability! Life can sometimes push us into becoming a version of ourselves we don't recognize anymore. My ideal client doesn't just have one issue...they have many issues, like we all do! Even when your needs cant be easily defined, I will help you open up to making healthy behavioral changes. I will help you learn new coping skills that will help you move closer to your goals. I will support you in becoming the you, you want to be! I also work with couples and can help you find the relationship you're dreaming of.
(919) 897-7946 View (919) 897-7946
Photo of Lisa Gunter, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Lisa Gunter
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Throughout our lives, we all encounter moments when we require assistance in navigating challenging circumstances. As a person-centered therapist, I am here to guide you through these situations with a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach. I deeply honor your role as the expert in your own life, and we will work together collaboratively to devise solutions. Our joint effort will culminate in the creation and execution of a plan aimed at achieving a positive outcome.
Throughout our lives, we all encounter moments when we require assistance in navigating challenging circumstances. As a person-centered therapist, I am here to guide you through these situations with a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach. I deeply honor your role as the expert in your own life, and we will work together collaboratively to devise solutions. Our joint effort will culminate in the creation and execution of a plan aimed at achieving a positive outcome.
(919) 769-6216 View (919) 769-6216
Photo of Gosha Stanchak, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Gosha Stanchak
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, QS, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613  (Online Only)
Welcome to a safe space where healing begins and hope thrives. If you struggle with trauma-related issues, such as complex / attachment / betrayal trauma, traumatic grief, migration grief, interpersonal trauma, or PTSD, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and resilience. My passion lies in helping individuals navigate the challenges of trauma and reclaim their lives with courage and strength. My therapeutic approach is experiential and grounded in empathy, authenticity, and compassion. I believe in the power of building a trusting therapeutic relationship as the foundation for healing. I tailor my approach to meet
Welcome to a safe space where healing begins and hope thrives. If you struggle with trauma-related issues, such as complex / attachment / betrayal trauma, traumatic grief, migration grief, interpersonal trauma, or PTSD, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and resilience. My passion lies in helping individuals navigate the challenges of trauma and reclaim their lives with courage and strength. My therapeutic approach is experiential and grounded in empathy, authenticity, and compassion. I believe in the power of building a trusting therapeutic relationship as the foundation for healing. I tailor my approach to meet
(252) 297-6681 View (252) 297-6681
Photo of Chelsea (Frances) Manzon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Chelsea (Frances) Manzon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Licensed in MD and NC! Limited daytime Telehealth schedule only. Please email! “My goal is to help others process difficult obstacles in their lives, by giving clients the skills and understanding to take back more control over their symptoms and increase overall quality of life. Difficulties with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, and domestic abuse are only some of the stress that can impact us and keeps us from enjoying life in the present. If any of these goals match your desire to feel better and better enjoy life, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to working together to achieve your goals!
Licensed in MD and NC! Limited daytime Telehealth schedule only. Please email! “My goal is to help others process difficult obstacles in their lives, by giving clients the skills and understanding to take back more control over their symptoms and increase overall quality of life. Difficulties with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, and domestic abuse are only some of the stress that can impact us and keeps us from enjoying life in the present. If any of these goals match your desire to feel better and better enjoy life, please feel free to reach out. I look forward to working together to achieve your goals!
(443) 775-3764 View (443) 775-3764
Photo of Lauren Kenney, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate in Raleigh, NC
Lauren Kenney
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you having trouble with body image, confidence or self esteem? Are you interested in developing healthy communication skills to better communicate with your partner, friends or family? I would love to help! I am passionate about creating a safe space while working with teens and adults. (14+)I am passionate about working with folks experiencing eating disorders, disordered eating, self image and body concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment concerns, and life transitions.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Are you having trouble with body image, confidence or self esteem? Are you interested in developing healthy communication skills to better communicate with your partner, friends or family? I would love to help! I am passionate about creating a safe space while working with teens and adults. (14+)I am passionate about working with folks experiencing eating disorders, disordered eating, self image and body concerns, depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment concerns, and life transitions.
(919) 629-1723 View (919) 629-1723
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.