Photo of Sarah Shuster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Sarah Shuster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11231
I am training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR, powerful forms of therapy designed to promote connection, healing, and growth.
I am currently providing in-person and video sessions for individual therapy and couples work. My therapeutic approach is focused on making room for feelings of relief, self-acceptance, and a sense of inner calm. My clients arrive to therapy because of a tension between their external life feels outs of alignment their inner desires. Or, their relationships a source of pain for them, leaving them feeling stuck, like they are just replaying the same patterns over and over again. My clients have curiosity about their own roles in their dynamics in family relationships, romantic relationships, and friendships.
I am training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR, powerful forms of therapy designed to promote connection, healing, and growth.
I am currently providing in-person and video sessions for individual therapy and couples work. My therapeutic approach is focused on making room for feelings of relief, self-acceptance, and a sense of inner calm. My clients arrive to therapy because of a tension between their external life feels outs of alignment their inner desires. Or, their relationships a source of pain for them, leaving them feeling stuck, like they are just replaying the same patterns over and over again. My clients have curiosity about their own roles in their dynamics in family relationships, romantic relationships, and friendships.
(929) 207-8079 View (929) 207-8079
Photo of Shterna Levy-Haim in Brooklyn, NY
Shterna Levy-Haim
MFT-LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11203  (Online Only)
Through empowering conversations, experiential exercises, and evidence-based models, including IFS, EFT, Psychodynamic, and Somatic experiencing, I accompany clients in transforming themselves and their relationships.
Are you looking to improve your quality of life and elevate your relationships? Welcome! I'm Shterna, a Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, families, and couples, and I'm glad you're here! Deciding to come to therapy is one of the biggest acts of self-love, and I'd be honored to witness your growth and healing journey. I provide a holistic and personalized approach to therapy that addresses the unique needs of each client and their relationship system. My specialties include relationships, family challenges, life transitions, childhood trauma, self-esteem, and boundaries.
Through empowering conversations, experiential exercises, and evidence-based models, including IFS, EFT, Psychodynamic, and Somatic experiencing, I accompany clients in transforming themselves and their relationships.
Are you looking to improve your quality of life and elevate your relationships? Welcome! I'm Shterna, a Marriage and Family Therapist working with individuals, families, and couples, and I'm glad you're here! Deciding to come to therapy is one of the biggest acts of self-love, and I'd be honored to witness your growth and healing journey. I provide a holistic and personalized approach to therapy that addresses the unique needs of each client and their relationship system. My specialties include relationships, family challenges, life transitions, childhood trauma, self-esteem, and boundaries.
(347) 851-7598 View (347) 851-7598
Photo of Daniel Schonbuch in Brooklyn, NY
Daniel Schonbuch
MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11225  (Online Only)
If you are looking for warm and compassionate therapy and to find more meaning in your life, you have come to the right place. I offer online therapy (zoom, phone, etc.) and specialize in treating Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD for individuals and marriage counseling for couples. My approach includes EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Logotherapy (Viktor Frankl). My warm and empathetic approach has helped thousands of individuals and couples overcome emotional difficulties and get "unstuck" and to start enjoying their lives. I accept insurance and have low fee options if you are paying out of pocket.
If you are looking for warm and compassionate therapy and to find more meaning in your life, you have come to the right place. I offer online therapy (zoom, phone, etc.) and specialize in treating Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD for individuals and marriage counseling for couples. My approach includes EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Logotherapy (Viktor Frankl). My warm and empathetic approach has helped thousands of individuals and couples overcome emotional difficulties and get "unstuck" and to start enjoying their lives. I accept insurance and have low fee options if you are paying out of pocket.
(347) 768-7593 View (347) 768-7593
Photo of Nicole Hutchinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Nicole Hutchinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
For couples, I am fully trained in Gottman Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I strongly believe that at our core the way we interpret what we experience creates narratives that guides our behaviors or how we react to things. It can mean the difference between being hopeful and hopeless.
For couples, I am fully trained in Gottman Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I strongly believe that at our core the way we interpret what we experience creates narratives that guides our behaviors or how we react to things. It can mean the difference between being hopeful and hopeless.
(646) 798-2251 View (646) 798-2251
Photo of Sally Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Sally Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I blend techniques from the Top in our field from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pragmatic Experiential Couples Therapy.
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained explicitly as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I believe in a collaborative approach and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
I blend techniques from the Top in our field from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pragmatic Experiential Couples Therapy.
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained explicitly as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I believe in a collaborative approach and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
(929) 543-6166 View (929) 543-6166
Photo of Elizabeth Crossfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Elizabeth Crossfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I blend techniques from the Top in our field from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pragmatic Experiential Couples Therapy.
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained specifically as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
I blend techniques from the Top in our field from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pragmatic Experiential Couples Therapy.
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained specifically as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I am easy to talk to and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
(332) 249-8317 View (332) 249-8317
Photo of Sage Williamson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Sage Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Using a combination of, emotionally focused therapy, and Gottman's method, I will assist you and your partner in rediscovering trust while also exploring ways to keep the fun and passion alive.
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I can help your child explore their feelings, make sense of their experience, and develop their full potential. I can help your child become their own therapist by learning techniques and coping strategies to learn how to deal with their challenges in their lives. I work well with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, social issues, learning issues, attention deficit disorder, and body image issues. Clients often see improved well-being early on in therapy.
Using a combination of, emotionally focused therapy, and Gottman's method, I will assist you and your partner in rediscovering trust while also exploring ways to keep the fun and passion alive.
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I can help your child explore their feelings, make sense of their experience, and develop their full potential. I can help your child become their own therapist by learning techniques and coping strategies to learn how to deal with their challenges in their lives. I work well with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, social issues, learning issues, attention deficit disorder, and body image issues. Clients often see improved well-being early on in therapy.
(646) 956-1786 View (646) 956-1786
Photo of Sally Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Sally Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I blend techniques from the Top in our field from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pragmatic Experiential Couples Therapy.
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained explicitly as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I believe in a collaborative approach and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
I blend techniques from the Top in our field from the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pragmatic Experiential Couples Therapy.
Are you missing appreciation? Does he stonewall? Does she not stop criticizing? Anxious and having trust issues? Do you feel a lack of sexual desire? Fighting over sexual frequency? I can help you stop the negative cycle. Feel love again. Feel intimate again. Trained explicitly as a marriage and family therapist, I am a highly trained and experienced couples therapist. I believe in a collaborative approach and skilled at creating tools to foster healthy connections between couples and families. Together, we repair your relationship by introducing new methods of communication to increase empathy and flexibility.
(929) 590-9716 View (929) 590-9716
Photo of Simone Thomas, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Simone Thomas
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am an empathetic listener whose passion is to help individuals, couples, and families work through conflicting emotions and life circumstances. The main theories I use are Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I encourage my clients to become their best selves by using the principles most suited to help them on that journey.
I am an empathetic listener whose passion is to help individuals, couples, and families work through conflicting emotions and life circumstances. The main theories I use are Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I encourage my clients to become their best selves by using the principles most suited to help them on that journey.
(347) 263-8868 View (347) 263-8868
Photo of Guided Element Mental Health Counseling Pllc, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Guided Element Mental Health Counseling Pllc
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
We use a variety of therapeutic approaches such as EFT, CPT, CBT to name a few and help to develop tools and techniques to help facilitate change in thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
Guided Element MHC is a virtual group practice. We all hit difficult roads in our lives, unexpectedly and without caution. Dealing with overwhelming emotions, thoughts & feelings will definitely impact our mood, behaviors, and interactions with people. Our goal is to work with our clients to address these emotions and behaviors they are experiencing, & work towards developing positive coping skills, tools & techniques to apply in their lives. We have clinicians who worked for FDNY, and various backgrounds and populations. We aim to helping individuals step into a better version of themselves and coping skills to manage stress.
We use a variety of therapeutic approaches such as EFT, CPT, CBT to name a few and help to develop tools and techniques to help facilitate change in thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
Guided Element MHC is a virtual group practice. We all hit difficult roads in our lives, unexpectedly and without caution. Dealing with overwhelming emotions, thoughts & feelings will definitely impact our mood, behaviors, and interactions with people. Our goal is to work with our clients to address these emotions and behaviors they are experiencing, & work towards developing positive coping skills, tools & techniques to apply in their lives. We have clinicians who worked for FDNY, and various backgrounds and populations. We aim to helping individuals step into a better version of themselves and coping skills to manage stress.
(718) 416-9860 View (718) 416-9860
Photo of Steven L Marte, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Steven L Marte
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11226  (Online Only)
In my journey as an MFT I’ve come to see people as experts of their own lives. I have expertise, but do not assume to be the expert of the lives of others. I listen to the stories you tell about your experiences and I seek to find how the different systems in your life (work, family, relationships, communities, etc.) affect each other and the troubles you may see me about. Within this, I also seek to find the strengths you bring to the table when facing your troubles. It may not always be obvious, but people tend to have strengths that they may not realize. I like to bring them to your attention and remind you they are there.
In my journey as an MFT I’ve come to see people as experts of their own lives. I have expertise, but do not assume to be the expert of the lives of others. I listen to the stories you tell about your experiences and I seek to find how the different systems in your life (work, family, relationships, communities, etc.) affect each other and the troubles you may see me about. Within this, I also seek to find the strengths you bring to the table when facing your troubles. It may not always be obvious, but people tend to have strengths that they may not realize. I like to bring them to your attention and remind you they are there.
(929) 357-0890 View (929) 357-0890
Photo of Dr. Steven Fried, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Dr. Steven Fried
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
Dr. Steven Fried is the Founder and Director of New Pathways Counseling Center. He is a Licensed Psychologist and has been in private practice for nearly 30 years. He is a Certified School Psychologist, has Post-Graduate Certification in Family Therapy, and is considered an expert in psychological testing. Dr. Fried is a published author, has been on the faculty at NYU for 25 years and a consultant at Brooklyn Hospital. He also helped coordinate the delivery of emergency mental health services and supervised dozens of practitioners in the aftermath of the World Trade Center attack. Dr. Fried obtained his Ph.D. at Hofstra University.
Dr. Steven Fried is the Founder and Director of New Pathways Counseling Center. He is a Licensed Psychologist and has been in private practice for nearly 30 years. He is a Certified School Psychologist, has Post-Graduate Certification in Family Therapy, and is considered an expert in psychological testing. Dr. Fried is a published author, has been on the faculty at NYU for 25 years and a consultant at Brooklyn Hospital. He also helped coordinate the delivery of emergency mental health services and supervised dozens of practitioners in the aftermath of the World Trade Center attack. Dr. Fried obtained his Ph.D. at Hofstra University.
(646) 846-9547 View (646) 846-9547
Photo of Carolay Ceballos - Jamron Counseling in Brooklyn, NY
Carolay Ceballos - Jamron Counseling
MHC-LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Waitlist for new clients
Whether addressing past wounds and traumas with gentle care or seeking assistance in navigating the intricacies and pressures of daily life, I am fully dedicated to joining you on this meaningful journey of uncovering your true self. Self-exploration requires courage and commitment, and I am here to collaborate and help you do that. Working together, we'll explore your inner world, thoughts, and feelings with curiosity to uncover underlying beliefs, patterns, and behaviors to help you achieve your goals.
Whether addressing past wounds and traumas with gentle care or seeking assistance in navigating the intricacies and pressures of daily life, I am fully dedicated to joining you on this meaningful journey of uncovering your true self. Self-exploration requires courage and commitment, and I am here to collaborate and help you do that. Working together, we'll explore your inner world, thoughts, and feelings with curiosity to uncover underlying beliefs, patterns, and behaviors to help you achieve your goals.
(929) 368-5399 View (929) 368-5399
Photo of Avishai Rozen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Avishai Rozen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11222
In therapy, we take a courageous step in pursuit of the age old quest: know thyself. Yet why is it so elusive and scary to do so? We all have our blind spots, our unconscious obstructions, traumas and repressions, left in the dark corners of the psyche. These may bring about great suffering for reasons unknown to us. Together, in a safe, open minded therapeutic space, we will explore what it is that is holding you back from your goals and growth; what is left in the darkness, causing pain. We will work towards finding more autonomy, authenticity and freedom. We will nourish the ground upon which you may bloom to your full potential.
In therapy, we take a courageous step in pursuit of the age old quest: know thyself. Yet why is it so elusive and scary to do so? We all have our blind spots, our unconscious obstructions, traumas and repressions, left in the dark corners of the psyche. These may bring about great suffering for reasons unknown to us. Together, in a safe, open minded therapeutic space, we will explore what it is that is holding you back from your goals and growth; what is left in the darkness, causing pain. We will work towards finding more autonomy, authenticity and freedom. We will nourish the ground upon which you may bloom to your full potential.
(347) 706-3323 View (347) 706-3323
Hope Services, LLC
PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11234
Our individual therapies include play, creative arts and talk therapy for children and adolescents struggling with functioning in their families, school, community, and social/interpersonal relationships. Cognitive Behavioral / Behavior Modification interventions are also provided. Hope Services, LLC is located in the Mill Basin section of Brooklyn, New York. We are a dynamic, innovative, pragmatic and professional outpatient mental health service program with a patient-centered treatment model that is geared toward providing services to the multicultural community within which it operates. With a specialty in providing treatment to children and adolescents (ages 5-18), Hope Services, LLC also accepts and treats adults. We are therefore dedicated to the mental and behavioral healthcare of children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. We offer a safe, therapeutic, comfortable, and respectful environment. Additional Languages Spoken: French, Haitian Creole.
Our individual therapies include play, creative arts and talk therapy for children and adolescents struggling with functioning in their families, school, community, and social/interpersonal relationships. Cognitive Behavioral / Behavior Modification interventions are also provided. Hope Services, LLC is located in the Mill Basin section of Brooklyn, New York. We are a dynamic, innovative, pragmatic and professional outpatient mental health service program with a patient-centered treatment model that is geared toward providing services to the multicultural community within which it operates. With a specialty in providing treatment to children and adolescents (ages 5-18), Hope Services, LLC also accepts and treats adults. We are therefore dedicated to the mental and behavioral healthcare of children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. We offer a safe, therapeutic, comfortable, and respectful environment. Additional Languages Spoken: French, Haitian Creole.
(917) 310-5891 View (917) 310-5891
Photo of Irina Voskoboynik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Irina Voskoboynik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11235
I have an individualized and unique approach working with children, young adults and elderly patients providing individual and family psychotherapy in the office setting. I provide mostly cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, family and psychodynamic therapies, while when I perform biopsychosocial assessment, I coordinate ongoing treatment with the psychiatrist and other specialists in order treat a patient on individual basis considering all the specific details related to his medical issues and social environment. My patients note that I create a nurturing environment for them expressing empathetic understanding and compassion to them.
I have an individualized and unique approach working with children, young adults and elderly patients providing individual and family psychotherapy in the office setting. I provide mostly cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, family and psychodynamic therapies, while when I perform biopsychosocial assessment, I coordinate ongoing treatment with the psychiatrist and other specialists in order treat a patient on individual basis considering all the specific details related to his medical issues and social environment. My patients note that I create a nurturing environment for them expressing empathetic understanding and compassion to them.
(347) 342-1697 View (347) 342-1697
Photo of Abbie Ruth - Expansive Therapy, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Abbie Ruth - Expansive Therapy
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York State. I have worked in various settings and capacities helping individuals with depression, anxiety, stress, medical illness, addictions, career concerns, and relationship challenges. In my work I find it useful to draw on a variety of clinical perspectives as each client brings to the process a unique set of needs, strengths, and goals.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New York State. I have worked in various settings and capacities helping individuals with depression, anxiety, stress, medical illness, addictions, career concerns, and relationship challenges. In my work I find it useful to draw on a variety of clinical perspectives as each client brings to the process a unique set of needs, strengths, and goals.
(347) 919-0109 View (347) 919-0109
Photo of Yolla Garraud, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Yolla Garraud
Counselor, MA, LMHC, Lic
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11212
A need to further understand human being and to obtain further guidance to effectively navigate a world with such disparity in immoral consciousness of human beings that holds selfishness and lack of compassion. Well my embodiment of the collective religions, to have had insight or somehow this journey was written in my genetic make up or possibly the time was ripe for me to be guided towards my spiritual awareness.
A need to further understand human being and to obtain further guidance to effectively navigate a world with such disparity in immoral consciousness of human beings that holds selfishness and lack of compassion. Well my embodiment of the collective religions, to have had insight or somehow this journey was written in my genetic make up or possibly the time was ripe for me to be guided towards my spiritual awareness.
(718) 509-9816 View (718) 509-9816
Photo of Smart Therapy PC, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Smart Therapy PC
Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
We get it – starting your healing journey can be nerve-wracking as you step out of your comfort zone and into the unknown. But guess what? You're not alone. Welcome to Smart Therapy PC where our virtual sessions bring our cozy therapy space to you, wherever you are. No need to commute or worry about the perfect outfit – just bring your authentic self. Taking that first step can feel like a leap into uncharted waters. But fear not! At Smart Therapy PC, we're your companions, your cheerleaders, and your warm hug throughout the process.
We get it – starting your healing journey can be nerve-wracking as you step out of your comfort zone and into the unknown. But guess what? You're not alone. Welcome to Smart Therapy PC where our virtual sessions bring our cozy therapy space to you, wherever you are. No need to commute or worry about the perfect outfit – just bring your authentic self. Taking that first step can feel like a leap into uncharted waters. But fear not! At Smart Therapy PC, we're your companions, your cheerleaders, and your warm hug throughout the process.
(347) 657-6489 View (347) 657-6489
Photo of Gwendolen Anderson - Jamron Counseling, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brooklyn, NY
Gwendolen Anderson - Jamron Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
Seeking mental health services can be a difficult process. The stigma behind mental health does not make it any easier. You may feel reluctant to seek help due to fear or feel shame and self-doubt. I am here to break this stigma with you by providing services filled with compassion, support and understanding. I will encourage you to communicate your emotions in and out of session, while providing you with the tools necessary to display them in healthy ways. You will be challenged and encouraged to implement your new skills outside of the therapeutic space. Change starts with you.
Seeking mental health services can be a difficult process. The stigma behind mental health does not make it any easier. You may feel reluctant to seek help due to fear or feel shame and self-doubt. I am here to break this stigma with you by providing services filled with compassion, support and understanding. I will encourage you to communicate your emotions in and out of session, while providing you with the tools necessary to display them in healthy ways. You will be challenged and encouraged to implement your new skills outside of the therapeutic space. Change starts with you.
(347) 569-6891 View (347) 569-6891
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.