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 Alison York, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Alison York
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27608  (Online Only)
I'm trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy which is based on Attachment Science.
Do the fights with your partner follow the same pattern? Does one of you get loud and angry while the other withdraws and goes silent? Has a painful experience or betrayal such as infidelity, loss, or trauma left you both feeling alone and shaken? You long for a playful and loving connection and I can help you get there. I help highly motivated clients like you learn to love themselves and each other again. I'm successful at what I do, and right now you need an expert. There is hope for your relationship.
I'm trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy which is based on Attachment Science.
Do the fights with your partner follow the same pattern? Does one of you get loud and angry while the other withdraws and goes silent? Has a painful experience or betrayal such as infidelity, loss, or trauma left you both feeling alone and shaken? You long for a playful and loving connection and I can help you get there. I help highly motivated clients like you learn to love themselves and each other again. I'm successful at what I do, and right now you need an expert. There is hope for your relationship.
(919) 670-5075 View (919) 670-5075
Photo of Lauren Sweetman, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Raleigh, NC
Lauren Sweetman
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in relationship counseling through the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I truly believe that everyone is capable of positive change. My role is to offer a supportive, nurturing environment where we can form a collaborative partnership and explore your unique experiences. Together we will develop a holistic treatment plan that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. We will work to build healthy habits, balance emotions, strengthen relationships, reprocess trauma, challenge automatic thoughts, and increase joy. Along the way, we celebrate every win, large or small.
I specialize in relationship counseling through the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I truly believe that everyone is capable of positive change. My role is to offer a supportive, nurturing environment where we can form a collaborative partnership and explore your unique experiences. Together we will develop a holistic treatment plan that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. We will work to build healthy habits, balance emotions, strengthen relationships, reprocess trauma, challenge automatic thoughts, and increase joy. Along the way, we celebrate every win, large or small.
(919) 568-5982 View (919) 568-5982
Photo of Kate Double, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kate Double
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
My work is informed by Polyvagal & attachment theories; and pulls from a variety of evidence-based models including EMDR, mindfulness, hypnosis, narrative therapy, EFT & Gottman approaches, among others.
Focusing primarily on relationships, sexuality and trauma, I seek to meet ALL patients and couples where they are. I believe in a relational and holistic approach that addresses relevant issues that affect current functioning, resilience, coping, and recovery. Patients and couples with diverse gender expressions/identities and sexual orientations are welcome and embraced. Starting with the belief that relationships are central to our well-being, I partner with patients to create a warm & safe space in which to explore patterns that effect individual, sexual & relationship well-being.
My work is informed by Polyvagal & attachment theories; and pulls from a variety of evidence-based models including EMDR, mindfulness, hypnosis, narrative therapy, EFT & Gottman approaches, among others.
Focusing primarily on relationships, sexuality and trauma, I seek to meet ALL patients and couples where they are. I believe in a relational and holistic approach that addresses relevant issues that affect current functioning, resilience, coping, and recovery. Patients and couples with diverse gender expressions/identities and sexual orientations are welcome and embraced. Starting with the belief that relationships are central to our well-being, I partner with patients to create a warm & safe space in which to explore patterns that effect individual, sexual & relationship well-being.
(919) 726-3883 View (919) 726-3883
Photo of Sarah Mondragon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Sarah Mondragon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
I utilize EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Psychotherapy to help adults and college students heal from trauma, navigate challenging relational issues, and cope with depression and anxiety.
You’ve been through a traumatic experience and you haven’t been functioning the same since then. You see yourself struggling more and more in your relationships, at your job, and in your day-to-day life. You feel alone. You’re scared that you might feel this way forever. You’re even more scared that things might get worse. You want to feel happy again, and you want to break free from the cycle you find yourself in over and over again. If this sounds familiar, I can tell you that you can heal from your trauma and the difficult experiences that you have gone through.
I utilize EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Psychotherapy to help adults and college students heal from trauma, navigate challenging relational issues, and cope with depression and anxiety.
You’ve been through a traumatic experience and you haven’t been functioning the same since then. You see yourself struggling more and more in your relationships, at your job, and in your day-to-day life. You feel alone. You’re scared that you might feel this way forever. You’re even more scared that things might get worse. You want to feel happy again, and you want to break free from the cycle you find yourself in over and over again. If this sounds familiar, I can tell you that you can heal from your trauma and the difficult experiences that you have gone through.
(720) 702-1397 View (720) 702-1397
Photo of Kinga Gudor @ Deep Connections Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kinga Gudor @ Deep Connections Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Do you feel disconnected and lonely in your relationship? I can help you re-connect and feel again the bond you once had. I use Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy ( EFT), an attachment based therapy method. I am also trained in EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment Therapy- a combination of CBT and mindfulness techniques) and IFS ( Internal Family Systems ) which are helpful in processing trauma.
Do you feel disconnected and lonely in your relationship? I can help you re-connect and feel again the bond you once had. I use Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy ( EFT), an attachment based therapy method. I am also trained in EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), ACT ( Acceptance and Commitment Therapy- a combination of CBT and mindfulness techniques) and IFS ( Internal Family Systems ) which are helpful in processing trauma.
(252) 300-3150 View (252) 300-3150
Photo of Alyssa Doberstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Alyssa Doberstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
I am also trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, as well as a Sex Therapy Certificate from the California Institute of Integral Studies.
Finding a therapist that you connect with and feel understood by is an integral part of therapy. I help people work towards improved connection within themselves, their relationships, and their sexuality. At times we may struggle to communicate and connect with our partners, experience a lack of passion and romance, or have difficulty managing life struggles, distressing events, or conflict in our relationships. Therapy can be a chance to rediscover yourself, your relationships, and heal from painful life experiences while exploring new skills and resources to grow and develop increased relationship and life satisfaction.
I am also trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples, as well as a Sex Therapy Certificate from the California Institute of Integral Studies.
Finding a therapist that you connect with and feel understood by is an integral part of therapy. I help people work towards improved connection within themselves, their relationships, and their sexuality. At times we may struggle to communicate and connect with our partners, experience a lack of passion and romance, or have difficulty managing life struggles, distressing events, or conflict in our relationships. Therapy can be a chance to rediscover yourself, your relationships, and heal from painful life experiences while exploring new skills and resources to grow and develop increased relationship and life satisfaction.
(984) 217-2820 View (984) 217-2820
Photo of Alies Barton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Alies Barton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27617
Waitlist for new clients
I see people of all identities and backgrounds. Those who struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, stress, and self-esteem. I use an emotionally-focused, psychotherapeutic approach. Psychotherapy is a form of treatment in which self-exploration leads to self-insight. Through the therapy process, it is my mission to promote emotional well-being, positive interpersonal relationships, and a better awareness to one’s inner world. I am registered as a yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance and like to incorporate a mind-body approach in therapy. Mindful movement and meditation is a great way to soothe the nervous system.
I see people of all identities and backgrounds. Those who struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, stress, and self-esteem. I use an emotionally-focused, psychotherapeutic approach. Psychotherapy is a form of treatment in which self-exploration leads to self-insight. Through the therapy process, it is my mission to promote emotional well-being, positive interpersonal relationships, and a better awareness to one’s inner world. I am registered as a yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance and like to incorporate a mind-body approach in therapy. Mindful movement and meditation is a great way to soothe the nervous system.
(984) 646-5595 x4 View (984) 646-5595 x4
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 Kelsey Riddle Therapy & Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Kelsey Riddle Therapy & Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
Waitlist for new clients
Kelsey Riddle Therapy & Wellness PLLC is a multi-state practice that provides quality bonding-science and nervous system-informed Teletherapy services to clients in Tennessee, Arizona, and North Carolina. Teletherapy sessions are being conducted through an easy to use HIPAA compliant video service. Through the use of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Gottman Method Couple Therapy, I help clients to become aware of negative patterns keeping them stuck, and change them. Through this, we can have new healthy interactions and experience more vulnerable communication and connections.
Kelsey Riddle Therapy & Wellness PLLC is a multi-state practice that provides quality bonding-science and nervous system-informed Teletherapy services to clients in Tennessee, Arizona, and North Carolina. Teletherapy sessions are being conducted through an easy to use HIPAA compliant video service. Through the use of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Gottman Method Couple Therapy, I help clients to become aware of negative patterns keeping them stuck, and change them. Through this, we can have new healthy interactions and experience more vulnerable communication and connections.
(615) 395-6415 View (615) 395-6415
Photo of Life Matrix NC, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Life Matrix NC, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27602
Other specialty training includes, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) and emotionally focused therapy (EFT).
Navigating life's transitions can be challenging at times. During those times, when you are living in overwhelm and wondering about which decision is best for you in that moment, who do you rely on to process that information? Where and who is your support system? Do you know what you need or want in that moment? You need a person and space where safety abounds and judgement does not exist. Let's talk!
Other specialty training includes, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) and emotionally focused therapy (EFT).
Navigating life's transitions can be challenging at times. During those times, when you are living in overwhelm and wondering about which decision is best for you in that moment, who do you rely on to process that information? Where and who is your support system? Do you know what you need or want in that moment? You need a person and space where safety abounds and judgement does not exist. Let's talk!
(910) 356-9441 View (910) 356-9441
Photo of Andrea Kinnaugh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Andrea Kinnaugh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613
I am trained in different modalities that I will pull from including Gottman Method, EFT, IFS, EMDR, Experiential, Somatic, and Mindfulness to tailor a holistic and individualized approach as we develop a plan to meet you or your relationship's desired outcomes.
Each person seeks out therapy for different reasons. As we begin our work together, my goal is that we create an authentic space for you to explore where you are, the experiences you have had, what you feel is holding you back, and what you are hoping to change.
I am trained in different modalities that I will pull from including Gottman Method, EFT, IFS, EMDR, Experiential, Somatic, and Mindfulness to tailor a holistic and individualized approach as we develop a plan to meet you or your relationship's desired outcomes.
Each person seeks out therapy for different reasons. As we begin our work together, my goal is that we create an authentic space for you to explore where you are, the experiences you have had, what you feel is holding you back, and what you are hoping to change.
(919) 263-5656 View (919) 263-5656
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 Amie Hanson, Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Amie Hanson
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling "stuck" in your journey, or maybe frustrated with where you are in your life? When you add in anxiety, depression, frustration from being unable to focus, grief, or any other mental health struggle, it probably adds to the whirlwind you feel like you're stuck in. Maybe you've been told "it could be worse," or to "be grateful," but this didn't make you feel any better. There are (usually) many different ways to look at a situation, but sometimes when you're in the thick of it, it's hard to see clearly. An outside perspective can help!
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you feeling "stuck" in your journey, or maybe frustrated with where you are in your life? When you add in anxiety, depression, frustration from being unable to focus, grief, or any other mental health struggle, it probably adds to the whirlwind you feel like you're stuck in. Maybe you've been told "it could be worse," or to "be grateful," but this didn't make you feel any better. There are (usually) many different ways to look at a situation, but sometimes when you're in the thick of it, it's hard to see clearly. An outside perspective can help!
(910) 898-4300 View (910) 898-4300
Photo of Shalandra Hollins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Shalandra Hollins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27614
The therapeutic space can help you to create change and to move closer to where you want to be. Shalandra works with clients to identify unhealthy patterns, thoughts, and behaviors that continue to hold them back.
The therapeutic space can help you to create change and to move closer to where you want to be. Shalandra works with clients to identify unhealthy patterns, thoughts, and behaviors that continue to hold them back.
(919) 694-6030 View (919) 694-6030
Photo of Debra Apollonia, Licensed Professional Counselor in Raleigh, NC
Debra Apollonia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27613
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients are able to explore issues and improve the quality of their lives. I use an integrative style of psychotherapy that pulls from many different approaches with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with those struggling with addiction and recovery issues.I also have years of experience working with emergency and trauma patients and their families. I treat children, adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients are able to explore issues and improve the quality of their lives. I use an integrative style of psychotherapy that pulls from many different approaches with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am also a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and have experience working with those struggling with addiction and recovery issues.I also have years of experience working with emergency and trauma patients and their families. I treat children, adolescents and adults using individual, family and/or couples' counseling.
(919) 948-1395 View (919) 948-1395
Photo of Susan Lester, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Susan Lester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that your behaviors, choices, struggles and symptoms make sense within the context of your story and environment and I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. I became passionate about offering hope and healing to others through my own story of brokenness. I enjoy working with adults, families, and couples who are struggling with issues related to PTSD/trauma, betrayal trauma, relationship issues, separation/divorce, addiction/codependency, co-occurring disorders, parenting, embodiment, grief/loss, mindfulness, anxiety/depression, attachment, family issues, sexuality, shame and spiritual concerns/abuse.
I believe that your behaviors, choices, struggles and symptoms make sense within the context of your story and environment and I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. I became passionate about offering hope and healing to others through my own story of brokenness. I enjoy working with adults, families, and couples who are struggling with issues related to PTSD/trauma, betrayal trauma, relationship issues, separation/divorce, addiction/codependency, co-occurring disorders, parenting, embodiment, grief/loss, mindfulness, anxiety/depression, attachment, family issues, sexuality, shame and spiritual concerns/abuse.
(919) 728-0735 View (919) 728-0735
Photo of Judith Grich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Judith Grich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-ATOD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27604
This I know to be true: Your future, how you perceive the world, how you feel about yourself and your behavior toward your family and friends is very much up to YOU. With courage, honesty, some hard work and a bit of help you can: Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Feelings, Change Your Life.
This I know to be true: Your future, how you perceive the world, how you feel about yourself and your behavior toward your family and friends is very much up to YOU. With courage, honesty, some hard work and a bit of help you can: Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Feelings, Change Your Life.
(631) 813-4580 View (631) 813-4580
Photo of Janet Heuring Larsen, Psychologist in Raleigh, NC
Janet Heuring Larsen
Psychologist, MA, LCAS, LPA, HSP-PA, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
PRACTICE MAY HAVE A WAITLIST, PLEASE EMAIL YOUR INQUIRIES: My psychology practice is committed to delivering highly effective treatment and outstanding client care. I've helped individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives for over 10 years. I treat clients with an array of issues including relationship struggles, anxiety, trauma, panic attacks, PTSD, depression, anger, insomnia, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, substance use/addiction and grief. I serve many clients with co-occurring disorders and have trained other therapists. I specialize in treating clients with anxiety and trauma using EMDR and also offer ADHD/ADD counseling.
(919) 948-3053 View (919) 948-3053
Photo of Brittani Procknow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Raleigh, NC
Brittani Procknow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
Do you want to feel at understood in your relationships, but you struggle with communicating emotions deep down? In your relationship, you want to deeply understand one another, break out of unhelpful patterns, and feel the energy you once had. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. One thing is for sure: you’re ready to feel confident in making changes. You’re ready to enjoy meaningful relationships without feeling the need to over-achieve. You’re ready to take the courageous step towards vulnerability. Most of all, you’re ready to go from complacent to passionate.
Do you want to feel at understood in your relationships, but you struggle with communicating emotions deep down? In your relationship, you want to deeply understand one another, break out of unhelpful patterns, and feel the energy you once had. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. One thing is for sure: you’re ready to feel confident in making changes. You’re ready to enjoy meaningful relationships without feeling the need to over-achieve. You’re ready to take the courageous step towards vulnerability. Most of all, you’re ready to go from complacent to passionate.
(919) 842-3083 View (919) 842-3083
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.