Emotionally Focused Therapists in Oklahoma City, OK

Photo of Polina E Varner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Polina E Varner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Waitlist for new clients
Therapy is a journey of self-discovery, becoming who you are meant to be, and I am here to share this courageous "deep dive". Are you ready to make conscious those things you already feel so raw and vulnerably in your body, to seat your feelings so close as to live to the point of tears? Like picking up a new and unfamiliar musical instrument, the first necessary step is to begin, does not matter where, or how, poorly or well. Beginning is difficult, we are reluctant to take that first close-in, brave step to reclaiming the happiness of actually having started. Living to the fullest is my goal for all of us.
Therapy is a journey of self-discovery, becoming who you are meant to be, and I am here to share this courageous "deep dive". Are you ready to make conscious those things you already feel so raw and vulnerably in your body, to seat your feelings so close as to live to the point of tears? Like picking up a new and unfamiliar musical instrument, the first necessary step is to begin, does not matter where, or how, poorly or well. Beginning is difficult, we are reluctant to take that first close-in, brave step to reclaiming the happiness of actually having started. Living to the fullest is my goal for all of us.
(405) 584-4583 View (405) 584-4583
Photo of Randee Tomlinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Randee Tomlinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73179
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an evidence-based approach based on Attachment Theory.
Is your relationship suffering? Do you feel like you don't matter to the one person who should care the most? Do you feel like no matter what you do, you keep getting it wrong in your most important relationship? That's a miserable place to be. It can be extremely challenging to function at work or with your children when there's a problem in your relationship. Talking with someone who knows how to repair the connection in your closest relationships can help. That is my passion; I love to help people repair their relationships and feel close again.
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy, an evidence-based approach based on Attachment Theory.
Is your relationship suffering? Do you feel like you don't matter to the one person who should care the most? Do you feel like no matter what you do, you keep getting it wrong in your most important relationship? That's a miserable place to be. It can be extremely challenging to function at work or with your children when there's a problem in your relationship. Talking with someone who knows how to repair the connection in your closest relationships can help. That is my passion; I love to help people repair their relationships and feel close again.
(405) 296-6773 View (405) 296-6773
Photo of Mandy McHugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Mandy McHugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73162
I'm trained in multiple modalities; Emotionally Focused Therapy is my approach of choice.
Couples are my primary specialty; I also do trauma work with individual adults. I work with people who are wrestling with feeling lonely, exhausted, sad, anxious, disconnected, or failing in their most important relationships, those who believe they aren’t enough or aren’t good enough for their person, those who just want peace, those who are afraid their person will leave, those who move away from emotions and those who are all too aware of them.
I'm trained in multiple modalities; Emotionally Focused Therapy is my approach of choice.
Couples are my primary specialty; I also do trauma work with individual adults. I work with people who are wrestling with feeling lonely, exhausted, sad, anxious, disconnected, or failing in their most important relationships, those who believe they aren’t enough or aren’t good enough for their person, those who just want peace, those who are afraid their person will leave, those who move away from emotions and those who are all too aware of them.
(405) 622-5598 View (405) 622-5598
Photo of Danisha Walker, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oklahoma City, OK
Danisha Walker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MS, LMFT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
During our time working together, you will experience the approaches I use mainly from an Experiential and Emotionally Focused stance.
I think we can all agree that starting something new, or even continuing with where we may have left off, can be quite challenging at times. This makes a lot of sense because change is scary. It can be unfamiliar and sometimes extremely hard to adapt to. So allow me to take a moment to encourage you by providing a safe space for you to take the first step. I am committed to providing you support through life’s hardships. By working alongside you, I will tailor the therapeutic process to your unique needs as the client.
During our time working together, you will experience the approaches I use mainly from an Experiential and Emotionally Focused stance.
I think we can all agree that starting something new, or even continuing with where we may have left off, can be quite challenging at times. This makes a lot of sense because change is scary. It can be unfamiliar and sometimes extremely hard to adapt to. So allow me to take a moment to encourage you by providing a safe space for you to take the first step. I am committed to providing you support through life’s hardships. By working alongside you, I will tailor the therapeutic process to your unique needs as the client.
(405) 915-0031 View (405) 915-0031
Photo of Josh Buss, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Josh Buss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73106
Counseling theories from which I draw include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and Collaborative Language Systems.
We all suffer, there is nothing wrong with you. Counseling is a collaborative process that we, you and I, use to actively construct a way of living. Sometimes our conversations will reveal previously unseen solutions. Anything that I propose is yours to question, modify, elaborate, or reject. You are a unique person who knows what has worked and what has not worked in the past. Life is an ongoing practice, made more meaningful and less confusing when engaged in authentic dialogue with others. Maybe, through shared inquiry, we can discover new possibilities. I would be honored to visit with you and find our way together.
Counseling theories from which I draw include Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and Collaborative Language Systems.
We all suffer, there is nothing wrong with you. Counseling is a collaborative process that we, you and I, use to actively construct a way of living. Sometimes our conversations will reveal previously unseen solutions. Anything that I propose is yours to question, modify, elaborate, or reject. You are a unique person who knows what has worked and what has not worked in the past. Life is an ongoing practice, made more meaningful and less confusing when engaged in authentic dialogue with others. Maybe, through shared inquiry, we can discover new possibilities. I would be honored to visit with you and find our way together.
(405) 251-8972 View (405) 251-8972
Photo of Lindsey Southwick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Lindsey Southwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAYC, CPT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73105  (Online Only)
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I am an experienced therapist that's willing to listen and validate you. My goal is to have everyone feel welcomed and heard. I am an adolescent and adult certified professional trauma, CSAYC (Credentialed Sexual Abuse Youth Clinician) therapist working with trauma victims from war, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, physical and emotional abuse, individuals fleeing countries, of all ages and backgrounds, using somatic psychology, trauma-focused therapy, emotionally focused therapy, cognitive trauma therapy, and EMDR tools, family system approach, and client center therapy.
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I am an experienced therapist that's willing to listen and validate you. My goal is to have everyone feel welcomed and heard. I am an adolescent and adult certified professional trauma, CSAYC (Credentialed Sexual Abuse Youth Clinician) therapist working with trauma victims from war, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, physical and emotional abuse, individuals fleeing countries, of all ages and backgrounds, using somatic psychology, trauma-focused therapy, emotionally focused therapy, cognitive trauma therapy, and EMDR tools, family system approach, and client center therapy.
(463) 444-7681 View (463) 444-7681
Photo of Kelly Lashar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Kelly Lashar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73120
I primarily utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy and The Gottman Method.
Are you a couple in crisis due to recent events in your relationship? Do you need help with conflict, communication, friendship, and intimacy? Do you want to change patterns of selfishness and increase empathy and understanding in your relationship, building trust and commitment? In couples therapy, I help each partner gain insight into their own past, emotions, motivations, and defenses. If one or both of the individuals in the relationship are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or personality disorders, I am also trained to work with those diagnoses. We can work together to find healing.
I primarily utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy and The Gottman Method.
Are you a couple in crisis due to recent events in your relationship? Do you need help with conflict, communication, friendship, and intimacy? Do you want to change patterns of selfishness and increase empathy and understanding in your relationship, building trust and commitment? In couples therapy, I help each partner gain insight into their own past, emotions, motivations, and defenses. If one or both of the individuals in the relationship are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or personality disorders, I am also trained to work with those diagnoses. We can work together to find healing.
(405) 294-1451 View (405) 294-1451
Photo of Jeff Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Jeff Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73131
EFT is the gold standard in couple's therapy and is equally effective with individuals.
At times we all can struggle. Whether in relationships, friendships or just in life, we can need some help. If this sounds familiar, I'd love to sit with you and help as we get things back on track. Although a large part of my practice is with couples, I also work with individuals. I believe that at our core, we want to connect with other people and feel connected with ourselves. We don't want to feel alone. My practice is based in a process known as Emotionally Focused Therapy ("EFT"). EFT is based on ideas of attachment/connection with others. It helps us understand how emotions impact our sense of connection in life.
EFT is the gold standard in couple's therapy and is equally effective with individuals.
At times we all can struggle. Whether in relationships, friendships or just in life, we can need some help. If this sounds familiar, I'd love to sit with you and help as we get things back on track. Although a large part of my practice is with couples, I also work with individuals. I believe that at our core, we want to connect with other people and feel connected with ourselves. We don't want to feel alone. My practice is based in a process known as Emotionally Focused Therapy ("EFT"). EFT is based on ideas of attachment/connection with others. It helps us understand how emotions impact our sense of connection in life.
(405) 357-9168 View (405) 357-9168
Photo of Erin R Hawkinson, Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Erin R Hawkinson
Counselor, MS, LPC, CCH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73101  (Online Only)
I have worked in the mental health field for 20+ years and have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Balancing Stress and Anxiety, EFT, EMDR, ACT, Hypnotherapy certified, certified NLP & concepts of neuroscience.
Accepting New clients! Are you feeling -Overwhelmed? Frustrated? stressed? finding yourself worried? anxious? I guide you through a therapeutic process to reduce stress and anxiety, Improve positive behaviors,&increase Positive goal outcomes. I encourage mindful positive approach to life's challenges. My therapeutic techniques are Client Centered which means the Therapy I provide is custom fit to address your specific goals and needs.I also like to focus on rapid solution focused therapeutic approaches. I prefer working with your mind and brain and heart with integrating appropriate challenges so you can be the best version of you!
I have worked in the mental health field for 20+ years and have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Balancing Stress and Anxiety, EFT, EMDR, ACT, Hypnotherapy certified, certified NLP & concepts of neuroscience.
Accepting New clients! Are you feeling -Overwhelmed? Frustrated? stressed? finding yourself worried? anxious? I guide you through a therapeutic process to reduce stress and anxiety, Improve positive behaviors,&increase Positive goal outcomes. I encourage mindful positive approach to life's challenges. My therapeutic techniques are Client Centered which means the Therapy I provide is custom fit to address your specific goals and needs.I also like to focus on rapid solution focused therapeutic approaches. I prefer working with your mind and brain and heart with integrating appropriate challenges so you can be the best version of you!
(405) 622-8609 View (405) 622-8609
Photo of Heather Hartzell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Heather Hartzell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, , LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73105  (Online Only)
As an Emotionally Focused trained therapist, I specialize in using attachment-based interventions along with techniques from other methodologies including mindfulness, neuroscience, CBT and DBT.
Do you have relationship where you wish you and your partner could connect more? Do you and your partner struggle to have deep meaningful conversations, and often find yourselves feeling more frustrated and distanced from conflict? Or are you an individual who struggles with feeling dysregulated and disconnected from those around you?
As an Emotionally Focused trained therapist, I specialize in using attachment-based interventions along with techniques from other methodologies including mindfulness, neuroscience, CBT and DBT.
Do you have relationship where you wish you and your partner could connect more? Do you and your partner struggle to have deep meaningful conversations, and often find yourselves feeling more frustrated and distanced from conflict? Or are you an individual who struggles with feeling dysregulated and disconnected from those around you?
(620) 685-0804 View (620) 685-0804
Photo of Gorham Psychotherapy DBA Townsend Therapy Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Gorham Psychotherapy DBA Townsend Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73151  (Online Only)
I am flexible and often utilize my additional trainings in EMDR, Trauma therapy, CBT, EFT, Gottman and Anger Management to help clients find peace.
Are you tired of feeling fearful, anxious, confused and angry? These feelings do not have to control your life. At Townsend Therapy Services, we strongly feel that each client possesses the power to heal themselves. We see ourselves as guides who are present to help nurture the client in order to promote true emotional healing. Townsend Therapy Services utilizes creative solutions to help clients achieve freedom from their fears, create resiliency, build empathy and to nurture empowerment.
I am flexible and often utilize my additional trainings in EMDR, Trauma therapy, CBT, EFT, Gottman and Anger Management to help clients find peace.
Are you tired of feeling fearful, anxious, confused and angry? These feelings do not have to control your life. At Townsend Therapy Services, we strongly feel that each client possesses the power to heal themselves. We see ourselves as guides who are present to help nurture the client in order to promote true emotional healing. Townsend Therapy Services utilizes creative solutions to help clients achieve freedom from their fears, create resiliency, build empathy and to nurture empowerment.
(405) 353-9486 View (405) 353-9486
Photo of Stacie Maze, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Stacie Maze
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73142
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do-list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. It shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do-list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. It shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
(405) 400-1169 View (405) 400-1169
Photo of Holly Shockley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oklahoma City, OK
Holly Shockley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73134
Waitlist for new clients
At times, life and relationships can feel overwhelming and hopeless. Traumatic experiences in our lives can also make the ability to connect and heal painful and overwhelming. Knowing we don't have to struggle alone can be one of the most freeing revelations, and individual and/or couples therapy can be a turning point in your life. Investing time and attention into discovering healthy and meaningful ways to cope and change can create more fulfilling lives and relationships.
At times, life and relationships can feel overwhelming and hopeless. Traumatic experiences in our lives can also make the ability to connect and heal painful and overwhelming. Knowing we don't have to struggle alone can be one of the most freeing revelations, and individual and/or couples therapy can be a turning point in your life. Investing time and attention into discovering healthy and meaningful ways to cope and change can create more fulfilling lives and relationships.
(405) 458-7493 View (405) 458-7493
Core Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73109
At Core Counseling, we provide integrative therapeutic services to children, adults, families, and couples. The experienced therapists provide a safe and supportive environment in which clients are able to gain both insight and concrete skills to create change and enrich their lives.
At Core Counseling, we provide integrative therapeutic services to children, adults, families, and couples. The experienced therapists provide a safe and supportive environment in which clients are able to gain both insight and concrete skills to create change and enrich their lives.
(405) 679-2316 View (405) 679-2316
Photo of Marlon Breaux, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Marlon Breaux
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73103
I think what most of us are seeking is a life that feels meaningful and worthwhile. Sometimes, the hardest part of that work is knowing who we truly are, and knowing what we need to get us there. Beneath it all, we hunger for peace and clarity? I am confident these things are possible for each of us. However, occasionally we just need a little help sorting it all out. I am a secular/non-religious therapist providing somatic, experiential, and cognitive modalities. I provide an affirming environment wherein you can explore, grow, and become your most authentic self. If you are ready brave person, I'd love to hear your story.
I think what most of us are seeking is a life that feels meaningful and worthwhile. Sometimes, the hardest part of that work is knowing who we truly are, and knowing what we need to get us there. Beneath it all, we hunger for peace and clarity? I am confident these things are possible for each of us. However, occasionally we just need a little help sorting it all out. I am a secular/non-religious therapist providing somatic, experiential, and cognitive modalities. I provide an affirming environment wherein you can explore, grow, and become your most authentic self. If you are ready brave person, I'd love to hear your story.
(405) 358-4533 View (405) 358-4533
Photo of Lindsay Wilkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Lindsay Wilkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73103
Now accepting new clients. Although at times overwhelming and daunting, therapy should be a place where each person feels accepted and welcome. Whether you are an individual struggling with various life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or have other challenging life circumstances, my professional guidance and unwavering support can help develop skills and understanding as how to best cope and manage these tough aspects of life. In doing so, we can identify helpful insights and explore valuable tools to utilize in day-to-day life.
Now accepting new clients. Although at times overwhelming and daunting, therapy should be a place where each person feels accepted and welcome. Whether you are an individual struggling with various life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties or have other challenging life circumstances, my professional guidance and unwavering support can help develop skills and understanding as how to best cope and manage these tough aspects of life. In doing so, we can identify helpful insights and explore valuable tools to utilize in day-to-day life.
(405) 956-2463 View (405) 956-2463
Photo of Janice Cliver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Janice Cliver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112  (Online Only)
Life is a beautiful journey until we lose our path. I believe that we all have our own individual journey which consists of many twists and turns. Your journey starts within yourself. With intensive and collaborative work, l can help you understand what may be preventing you from being a happy productive person. l can help you discover and break persistent patterns which sabotage your life. Utilizing positive regard, understanding and humor we work together to help you discover a better understanding of yourself. With this knowledge you can make the changes that are important to you. Holiday stress help is here. Please call.
Life is a beautiful journey until we lose our path. I believe that we all have our own individual journey which consists of many twists and turns. Your journey starts within yourself. With intensive and collaborative work, l can help you understand what may be preventing you from being a happy productive person. l can help you discover and break persistent patterns which sabotage your life. Utilizing positive regard, understanding and humor we work together to help you discover a better understanding of yourself. With this knowledge you can make the changes that are important to you. Holiday stress help is here. Please call.
(405) 494-1294 View (405) 494-1294
Photo of Tiffany Hawkins Berry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
Tiffany Hawkins Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Hi! I’m happy that you are here. I believe everyone has the power to heal—As a therapist, my goal is to work in collaboration with you to gain clarity and ultimately heal, so that you can be your best self and love the life you want to live. As your ally, my role is to create a safe and affirming space for you to begin exploring patterns while working towards change. Together we will strengthen your confidence and personal power, navigating with you through personal reflection and acknowledgment, while assisting you in discovering inner strengths that will help you live a better, more enriched life.
Hi! I’m happy that you are here. I believe everyone has the power to heal—As a therapist, my goal is to work in collaboration with you to gain clarity and ultimately heal, so that you can be your best self and love the life you want to live. As your ally, my role is to create a safe and affirming space for you to begin exploring patterns while working towards change. Together we will strengthen your confidence and personal power, navigating with you through personal reflection and acknowledgment, while assisting you in discovering inner strengths that will help you live a better, more enriched life.
(405) 351-5241 View (405) 351-5241
Photo of MR Valentine Oparaku, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma City, OK
MR Valentine Oparaku
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHR, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
As a person of color, and who has experienced depression and anxiety, I can understand when life becomes unmanageable and we need someone to talk to about our feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. I am here to talk because I have been down this road before. I am open and always willing to discuss the problem and help with your recovery. Life is too short to be quiet about our difficulties. Come, let's build a good relationship and trust that will help us work together to achieve our goals.
As a person of color, and who has experienced depression and anxiety, I can understand when life becomes unmanageable and we need someone to talk to about our feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. I am here to talk because I have been down this road before. I am open and always willing to discuss the problem and help with your recovery. Life is too short to be quiet about our difficulties. Come, let's build a good relationship and trust that will help us work together to achieve our goals.
(405) 437-4281 View (405) 437-4281
Photo of Dr. Benjamin Morrell in Oklahoma City, OK
Dr. Benjamin Morrell
MD, BS
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
There is more to life than just "getting through." We all have a desire to live a fulfilling & impactful life but this society does NOT show us how. To create that is absolutely possible if you have the right education, lifestyle, & mentor that fits you. This was the case in my life, & is why I respect that each person is different & requires their own path. So, I create personalized programs for all my patients & clients to address their issues at the ROOT & rebuild their daily lives on a foundation of knowledge, joy, & habits that align them with their true intentions. Once the wins start accruing.. success is guaranteed.
There is more to life than just "getting through." We all have a desire to live a fulfilling & impactful life but this society does NOT show us how. To create that is absolutely possible if you have the right education, lifestyle, & mentor that fits you. This was the case in my life, & is why I respect that each person is different & requires their own path. So, I create personalized programs for all my patients & clients to address their issues at the ROOT & rebuild their daily lives on a foundation of knowledge, joy, & habits that align them with their true intentions. Once the wins start accruing.. success is guaranteed.
(405) 449-5828 View (405) 449-5828

See more therapy options for Oklahoma City

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.