Photo of Karyn Bristol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopewell, NJ
Karyn Bristol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
I am an ICEEFT Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT), which means I have undergone rigorous training and supervision in EFT, including having videotaped segments of my work reviewed by the ICEEFT Board.
I have over 20 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, and couples navigate difficult times, confusing and debilitating feelings, and complicated relationships. My treatment approach starts with the client--with the belief that everyone is exquisitely unique--and therefore therapy is not one-size-fits-all. I believe that being genuine with clients is essential; in my office you will find a healing conversation, not talking to a stone wall.
I am an ICEEFT Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT), which means I have undergone rigorous training and supervision in EFT, including having videotaped segments of my work reviewed by the ICEEFT Board.
I have over 20 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, and couples navigate difficult times, confusing and debilitating feelings, and complicated relationships. My treatment approach starts with the client--with the belief that everyone is exquisitely unique--and therefore therapy is not one-size-fits-all. I believe that being genuine with clients is essential; in my office you will find a healing conversation, not talking to a stone wall.
(508) 214-4216 View (508) 214-4216
Photo of Lisa Thayer @ It's A Matter of Healing, LLC, Psychologist in Hopewell, NJ
Lisa Thayer @ It's A Matter of Healing, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525  (Online Only)
It is exciting, you are taking steps to find support. My expertise comes from over 20 years working with individuals, couples and families experiencing the effects of attachment trauma. The hallmark of trauma is the loss of basic trust. Our mind-body connection is powerful. In the short-term, it finds the quickest route to safety. Yet, overtime the protection it affords can become a pattern that adversely affects our well-being. I am passionate about helping individuals in the process of restoring their capacity to trust and dissolve the fear that leads to harmful advance or retreat, and causes relational anxiety and depression.
It is exciting, you are taking steps to find support. My expertise comes from over 20 years working with individuals, couples and families experiencing the effects of attachment trauma. The hallmark of trauma is the loss of basic trust. Our mind-body connection is powerful. In the short-term, it finds the quickest route to safety. Yet, overtime the protection it affords can become a pattern that adversely affects our well-being. I am passionate about helping individuals in the process of restoring their capacity to trust and dissolve the fear that leads to harmful advance or retreat, and causes relational anxiety and depression.
(732) 313-2560 View (732) 313-2560
Photo of Emily Suzuki, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hopewell, NJ
Emily Suzuki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
Buddhism teaches us that change is a fundamental truth of the healing process. I love to support people negotiating change and life transitions. Change is undoubtedly hard, and anxiety, depression and grief often accompany it. Fortunately, so does new growth. I specialize in attachment and relationships and believe they are the foundation of our ability to heal. I support people through separation and divorce, perinatal and postpartum adjustment, parenting and co-parenting, family conflict, grief and loss, trauma and racial identity development. As we heal our relationship with self, we show up more fully in relationship with others
Buddhism teaches us that change is a fundamental truth of the healing process. I love to support people negotiating change and life transitions. Change is undoubtedly hard, and anxiety, depression and grief often accompany it. Fortunately, so does new growth. I specialize in attachment and relationships and believe they are the foundation of our ability to heal. I support people through separation and divorce, perinatal and postpartum adjustment, parenting and co-parenting, family conflict, grief and loss, trauma and racial identity development. As we heal our relationship with self, we show up more fully in relationship with others
(609) 488-4846 View (609) 488-4846
Photo of Village Counseling Services in Hopewell, NJ
Village Counseling Services
DO, PhD, DrNP, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
Village Counseling Services is a professional group that provides support services to the independently licensed psychologists, psychotherapists and board-certified psychiatrists, who have been providing client-centered, evidence-based treatment to the greater Lawrenceville/Princeton community since 1996.
Village Counseling Services is a professional group that provides support services to the independently licensed psychologists, psychotherapists and board-certified psychiatrists, who have been providing client-centered, evidence-based treatment to the greater Lawrenceville/Princeton community since 1996.
(609) 844-0452 x713 View (609) 844-0452 x713
Photo of Kate Bachus Ware, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopewell, NJ
Kate Bachus Ware
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hopewell, NJ 08525
I have always liked the metaphor that therapy is like riding in the car with someone. You are the one behind the wheel, deciding where and how fast we go and I am the one with the map helping you to get there. I believe in forming collaborative relationships with the people I work with. I strive to help you understand yourself better so that you can make meaningful change in your life. My goal is to help you form strategies and ways of thinking that can be translated from the therapy room to every day life - to work, school. relationships, and within yourself.
I have always liked the metaphor that therapy is like riding in the car with someone. You are the one behind the wheel, deciding where and how fast we go and I am the one with the map helping you to get there. I believe in forming collaborative relationships with the people I work with. I strive to help you understand yourself better so that you can make meaningful change in your life. My goal is to help you form strategies and ways of thinking that can be translated from the therapy room to every day life - to work, school. relationships, and within yourself.
(609) 751-5879 View (609) 751-5879
Photo of Linda B Weber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopewell, NJ
Linda B Weber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hopewell, NJ 08525  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work with couples, individuals and families to help them accomplish small and large life goals. Together we overcome the obstacles You are encountering. We address whatever prevents you from having as satisfying a relationship, job, or day to day living experience as you want. I believe in leveraging each individual's strengths, in helping people be their "best" self, and in supporting clients to effectively manage the transitions we all encounter as we travel our life journeys. Helping others "find their voice" is part of what makes my job exciting.
I work with couples, individuals and families to help them accomplish small and large life goals. Together we overcome the obstacles You are encountering. We address whatever prevents you from having as satisfying a relationship, job, or day to day living experience as you want. I believe in leveraging each individual's strengths, in helping people be their "best" self, and in supporting clients to effectively manage the transitions we all encounter as we travel our life journeys. Helping others "find their voice" is part of what makes my job exciting.
(609) 526-3203 View (609) 526-3203
Photo of Dr. Widian Nicola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopewell, NJ
Dr. Widian Nicola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hopewell, NJ 08525
Loving and loving well takes courage, but even the most courageous couples don't have it all figured out. That’s why I’m here: to support couples as they take greater risks to develop (and re-develop) trust, gain understanding, deepen intimacy, and restore connection. I understand the unique challenges of relationships and know how deep hurt and regret impact connection. I also know the long-lasting positive impacts that therapy can have on couples deciding whether to stay together, how to get unstuck, what to do to stop fighting, and how to forgive.
Loving and loving well takes courage, but even the most courageous couples don't have it all figured out. That’s why I’m here: to support couples as they take greater risks to develop (and re-develop) trust, gain understanding, deepen intimacy, and restore connection. I understand the unique challenges of relationships and know how deep hurt and regret impact connection. I also know the long-lasting positive impacts that therapy can have on couples deciding whether to stay together, how to get unstuck, what to do to stop fighting, and how to forgive.
(360) 464-1251 View (360) 464-1251
Photo of Jacqueline L. Franciscus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hopewell, NJ
Jacqueline L. Franciscus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hopewell, NJ 08525
Hello there! I'm Jackie, and I'm on a mission to create a safe and supportive space for individuals navigating the exciting yet challenging journey of young adulthood, college life, and the unique experiences of women, children, and teens. I'm not just a therapist; I'm your partner in personal growth and well-being. With a warm smile and an open heart, I bring a blend of professional expertise and genuine care to my practice. My passion lies in helping young adults find their footing, supporting college students in their academic and personal challenges, and empowering women, children, and teens to navigate the complexities of life.
Hello there! I'm Jackie, and I'm on a mission to create a safe and supportive space for individuals navigating the exciting yet challenging journey of young adulthood, college life, and the unique experiences of women, children, and teens. I'm not just a therapist; I'm your partner in personal growth and well-being. With a warm smile and an open heart, I bring a blend of professional expertise and genuine care to my practice. My passion lies in helping young adults find their footing, supporting college students in their academic and personal challenges, and empowering women, children, and teens to navigate the complexities of life.
(609) 245-6999 View (609) 245-6999
Photo of Christine M Ruth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopewell, NJ
Christine M Ruth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
Are you feeling stuck in a difficult circumstance or a relational conflict? Do you find yourself limited by fear, anxiety, lack of motivation or clarity? Are you discerning whether or not to stay in a current relationship? This can be a painful space. I believe we all have access to deep, still waters within us that can guide and direct us to deeper peace and clarity. Sometimes, we struggle to access that "knowing part" of us. I have 20 years of helping guide men, women, couples, adolescents and families gain skills and find deeper, more peaceful waters in seasons of grief, anxiety, depression, divorce & couple's conflict.
Are you feeling stuck in a difficult circumstance or a relational conflict? Do you find yourself limited by fear, anxiety, lack of motivation or clarity? Are you discerning whether or not to stay in a current relationship? This can be a painful space. I believe we all have access to deep, still waters within us that can guide and direct us to deeper peace and clarity. Sometimes, we struggle to access that "knowing part" of us. I have 20 years of helping guide men, women, couples, adolescents and families gain skills and find deeper, more peaceful waters in seasons of grief, anxiety, depression, divorce & couple's conflict.
(609) 293-2326 View (609) 293-2326
Photo of Maggie Furniss, Counselor in Hopewell, NJ
Maggie Furniss
Counselor, EdS, LPC, BCC
Verified Verified
Hopewell, NJ 08525
Not accepting new clients
You're at the crossroads, transitioning out of a relationship, job, or stage of life. Something fell apart, or fell into your lap, and it's overwhelming to imagine the next steps. You want to get it "right", or you're worried you'll get it "wrong"... You are an empathic person who cares deeply about others and the state of the world. Imagine yourself more connected to your Self - all the parts, including those you know are there in the shadows. Imagine having healthier boundaries, better ways of relating to yourself and others, and an ability to find the courage to step in the each day with a renewed sense of purpose.
You're at the crossroads, transitioning out of a relationship, job, or stage of life. Something fell apart, or fell into your lap, and it's overwhelming to imagine the next steps. You want to get it "right", or you're worried you'll get it "wrong"... You are an empathic person who cares deeply about others and the state of the world. Imagine yourself more connected to your Self - all the parts, including those you know are there in the shadows. Imagine having healthier boundaries, better ways of relating to yourself and others, and an ability to find the courage to step in the each day with a renewed sense of purpose.
(609) 337-3649 View (609) 337-3649

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Megan Furnish, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopewell, NJ
Megan Furnish
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Waitlist for new clients
Among my areas of specialized training are Relational Life Therapy (RLT), Imago Relationship Therapy, Gottman Relationship Therapy, EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), and EMDR Level 2.
My treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns in their lives and interpersonal relationships. I incorporate a blend of conventional and alternative approaches and determine which style of therapy will be most helpful for each client. With sensitivity and compassion, I work with clients to help them build on their strengths to identify and achieve life goals.
Among my areas of specialized training are Relational Life Therapy (RLT), Imago Relationship Therapy, Gottman Relationship Therapy, EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), and EMDR Level 2.
My treatment approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients resolve current problems and long-standing patterns in their lives and interpersonal relationships. I incorporate a blend of conventional and alternative approaches and determine which style of therapy will be most helpful for each client. With sensitivity and compassion, I work with clients to help them build on their strengths to identify and achieve life goals.
(609) 614-3050 View (609) 614-3050
Photo of Kaylee Rose Friedman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hopewell, NJ
Kaylee Rose Friedman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
I pull from a variety of approaches including somatics, trauma-informed mindfulness (MBSR), IFS, ACT, EFT, Havening Trauma Reprocessing, attachment theory, and existentialism.
Finding a therapist you can connect with can be overwhelming and feel like a daunting process. In a world that has conditioned you to live an unconscious life, self-reflection and building your intuition is an act of rebellion. You may struggle to find meaning, balance, & peace within the chaos of living. Life inherently involves suffering, and sometimes navigating relationship issues, big life transitions, traumas, or just daily stress can get overwhelming and confusing. The choice to go to therapy is a radical act of self-care, bravery, and accountability.
I pull from a variety of approaches including somatics, trauma-informed mindfulness (MBSR), IFS, ACT, EFT, Havening Trauma Reprocessing, attachment theory, and existentialism.
Finding a therapist you can connect with can be overwhelming and feel like a daunting process. In a world that has conditioned you to live an unconscious life, self-reflection and building your intuition is an act of rebellion. You may struggle to find meaning, balance, & peace within the chaos of living. Life inherently involves suffering, and sometimes navigating relationship issues, big life transitions, traumas, or just daily stress can get overwhelming and confusing. The choice to go to therapy is a radical act of self-care, bravery, and accountability.
(609) 566-9611 View (609) 566-9611
Photo of Zoe Childs, Licensed Social Worker in Hopewell, NJ
Zoe Childs
Licensed Social Worker , MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
I utilize a holistic approach that integrates several different therapy modalities, including CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
My ideal client is someone motivated to improve their life & well-being. They would be open to exploring various therapeutic techniques and strategies to better help them understand their issues, whether it be communication, relationships, anxiety, or depression. My clients will want to cultivate skills to help them navigate their challenges and take more control over their lives. Additionally, my clients will value a therapist who provides support and a nonjudgmental environment but also challenges them.
I utilize a holistic approach that integrates several different therapy modalities, including CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy.
My ideal client is someone motivated to improve their life & well-being. They would be open to exploring various therapeutic techniques and strategies to better help them understand their issues, whether it be communication, relationships, anxiety, or depression. My clients will want to cultivate skills to help them navigate their challenges and take more control over their lives. Additionally, my clients will value a therapist who provides support and a nonjudgmental environment but also challenges them.
(609) 359-0450 View (609) 359-0450
Photo of Nancy Logue, Psychologist in Hopewell, NJ
Nancy Logue
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
Observing that much of what distresses people is feeling disconnected in important relationships, I have been studying and practicing Emotionally Focused Therapy to heal unhappy, unhealthy relationships.
Painful relationship issues and lifestyle struggles can interfere with all aspects of life. Distress, Depression, anxiety, marital conflict or alienation, job stress, losses and health problems impact the quality of home life, career functioning, physical and mental health. Effective psychotherapy can help you face these challenges and empower you to improve your life. With training and expertise in a variety of therapeutic techniques, I use a comprehensive, practical approach attuned to your needs and goals. I have many years experience helping couples, individuals and families connect with themselves and each other. Identifying, understanding and clearly communicating our true needs, we can break destructive negative patterns.
Observing that much of what distresses people is feeling disconnected in important relationships, I have been studying and practicing Emotionally Focused Therapy to heal unhappy, unhealthy relationships.
Painful relationship issues and lifestyle struggles can interfere with all aspects of life. Distress, Depression, anxiety, marital conflict or alienation, job stress, losses and health problems impact the quality of home life, career functioning, physical and mental health. Effective psychotherapy can help you face these challenges and empower you to improve your life. With training and expertise in a variety of therapeutic techniques, I use a comprehensive, practical approach attuned to your needs and goals. I have many years experience helping couples, individuals and families connect with themselves and each other. Identifying, understanding and clearly communicating our true needs, we can break destructive negative patterns.
(215) 995-5148 View (215) 995-5148
Photo of Amy Bibb-Ford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopewell, NJ
Amy Bibb-Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
Adjusting to life transitions, interpersonal struggles, or needing to look inward are compelling reasons to seek therapy. As a therapist with 25+ years of experience, I establish a confidential, trusting relationship and help individuals, couples, and families cope and move forward. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and transparent, informed by advanced training in treating trauma, evidence-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Core Self Reclamation Therapy (CSRT) and family therapy.
Adjusting to life transitions, interpersonal struggles, or needing to look inward are compelling reasons to seek therapy. As a therapist with 25+ years of experience, I establish a confidential, trusting relationship and help individuals, couples, and families cope and move forward. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and transparent, informed by advanced training in treating trauma, evidence-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Core Self Reclamation Therapy (CSRT) and family therapy.
(484) 538-5243 View (484) 538-5243
Photo of Amy Bibb-Ford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hopewell, NJ
Amy Bibb-Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08542
Adjusting to life transitions, interpersonal struggles, or needing to look inward are compelling reasons to seek therapy. As a therapist with 25+ years of experience, I establish a confidential, trusting relationship and help individuals, couples, and families cope and move forward. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and transparent, informed by advanced training in treating trauma, evidence-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Core Self Reclamation Therapy (CSRT) and family therapy.
Adjusting to life transitions, interpersonal struggles, or needing to look inward are compelling reasons to seek therapy. As a therapist with 25+ years of experience, I establish a confidential, trusting relationship and help individuals, couples, and families cope and move forward. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and transparent, informed by advanced training in treating trauma, evidence-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Core Self Reclamation Therapy (CSRT) and family therapy.
(240) 661-7069 View (240) 661-7069
Photo of Lynn Libby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hopewell, NJ
Lynn Libby
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Pennington, NJ 08534
I draw from Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples as well as John Gottman's Marital Enrichment Training.
I see life as a journey and counseling as an opportunity for an individual or couple to reach a greater level of health and joy. It is my hope to share in that journey. The focus in my practice is to provide quality, professional care for adolescents, adults, and couples through confidential counseling and consultation. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years experience.
I draw from Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples as well as John Gottman's Marital Enrichment Training.
I see life as a journey and counseling as an opportunity for an individual or couple to reach a greater level of health and joy. It is my hope to share in that journey. The focus in my practice is to provide quality, professional care for adolescents, adults, and couples through confidential counseling and consultation. I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years experience.
(609) 737-6334 View (609) 737-6334
Photo of Leeor Gal, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hopewell, NJ
Leeor Gal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Providing online (NJ&PA) and in-person (PA) therapy to folks, my practice offers a variety of therapeutic services such as EMDR & EFT.
Maybe you have anxiety, experienced trauma, or diagnosed with ADHD and you're looking to heal those parts. Perhaps you’re struggling with your partner, friends, boss, or parents and you’re looking to understand those relationships deeper. It can feel overwhelming and isolating working on healing from negative experiences, I get it. We may oftentimes find ourselves feeling stuck and unsure of where to go to next. I want to help you overcome that. Changing is not necessarily the answer, but rather growing into the version of you that you want to see.
Providing online (NJ&PA) and in-person (PA) therapy to folks, my practice offers a variety of therapeutic services such as EMDR & EFT.
Maybe you have anxiety, experienced trauma, or diagnosed with ADHD and you're looking to heal those parts. Perhaps you’re struggling with your partner, friends, boss, or parents and you’re looking to understand those relationships deeper. It can feel overwhelming and isolating working on healing from negative experiences, I get it. We may oftentimes find ourselves feeling stuck and unsure of where to go to next. I want to help you overcome that. Changing is not necessarily the answer, but rather growing into the version of you that you want to see.
(215) 515-5647 View (215) 515-5647
Photo of Gwen Blake Birch Tree Therapeutic Arts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hopewell, NJ
Gwen Blake Birch Tree Therapeutic Arts
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, MFT, ICST, SAC, SAC,CZT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08853
I use talk, experiential, and skill based therapy, EFT, Brief Therapy, Aroma Freedom, Synergetic Play Therapy & more.
I offer appointments (8am - 8pm) in my new office space (and online)! Creating and clearing space to change unfamiliar and familiar stress is a really big part of therapeutic healing. These struggles often cause avoidance, overthinking, big emotions, or unhelpful habits and attitudes, which tend to cycle and leave you to feel unresolved. Becoming clear about struggles, then learning new ways to cope creates room for amazing change in your today; unraveling confusion, gaining clarity and moving toward to a more, meaningful, congruent and focused life. Individuals (child-adults), couples, and families are welcome!
I use talk, experiential, and skill based therapy, EFT, Brief Therapy, Aroma Freedom, Synergetic Play Therapy & more.
I offer appointments (8am - 8pm) in my new office space (and online)! Creating and clearing space to change unfamiliar and familiar stress is a really big part of therapeutic healing. These struggles often cause avoidance, overthinking, big emotions, or unhelpful habits and attitudes, which tend to cycle and leave you to feel unresolved. Becoming clear about struggles, then learning new ways to cope creates room for amazing change in your today; unraveling confusion, gaining clarity and moving toward to a more, meaningful, congruent and focused life. Individuals (child-adults), couples, and families are welcome!
(908) 838-4184 View (908) 838-4184
Photo of Jonathan Huston-Wong, Psychologist in Hopewell, NJ
Jonathan Huston-Wong
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Princeton, NJ 08540
As a psychologist, I appreciate the opportunity to witness peoples’ capacity for not only surviving, but also thriving in today’s complicated world. My experience over the past decade has brought me to understand the many ways a therapist’s role is akin to that of a gardener tending to a lotus. Just as the young lotus needs tender care and stillness, I provide a safe, nurturing and collaborative environment. Respecting the lotus’s need for sunlight, I approach therapy with warmth, openness and humor. As a Confucian scholar once said, “I love the lotus because while growing from mud, it is unstained.”
As a psychologist, I appreciate the opportunity to witness peoples’ capacity for not only surviving, but also thriving in today’s complicated world. My experience over the past decade has brought me to understand the many ways a therapist’s role is akin to that of a gardener tending to a lotus. Just as the young lotus needs tender care and stillness, I provide a safe, nurturing and collaborative environment. Respecting the lotus’s need for sunlight, I approach therapy with warmth, openness and humor. As a Confucian scholar once said, “I love the lotus because while growing from mud, it is unstained.”
(908) 279-0713 View (908) 279-0713
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.