Emotionally Focused Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Leeor Gal, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Leeor Gal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
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 Lauren Pokras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Lauren Pokras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
These include expressive arts, self-compassion, cognitive behavior and emotionally focused therapy, attachment-based trauma processing, and psychodynamic therapies in a solution oriented framework.
Therapy is a partnership of trust; a safe place to give voice, transform experience and practice new ways of being. What is dark and daunting to do alone becomes possible with guidance and presence. Positive self-care and higher self-trust are key to feeling calmer and energized to make decisions and act in alignment with our authentic self. I support clients to gain insight into self-defeating thoughts and patterns, and learn new tools to cope with hardship with renewed confidence and balance. Clients with intense feelings, burnout and a harsh inner critic learn to relate to themselves and others with more compassion and ease.
These include expressive arts, self-compassion, cognitive behavior and emotionally focused therapy, attachment-based trauma processing, and psychodynamic therapies in a solution oriented framework.
Therapy is a partnership of trust; a safe place to give voice, transform experience and practice new ways of being. What is dark and daunting to do alone becomes possible with guidance and presence. Positive self-care and higher self-trust are key to feeling calmer and energized to make decisions and act in alignment with our authentic self. I support clients to gain insight into self-defeating thoughts and patterns, and learn new tools to cope with hardship with renewed confidence and balance. Clients with intense feelings, burnout and a harsh inner critic learn to relate to themselves and others with more compassion and ease.
(215) 261-5691 View (215) 261-5691
Photo of Andrea Castro-Steffens, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Andrea Castro-Steffens
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Life transitions can be unsettling and isolating. My hope as a therapist is to support and empower my clients on their path towards healing. Utilizing a trauma-informed, non-judgmental space, I specialize in helping individuals, couples and families build a strong connection rooted in trust and acceptance. We will work together to build the knowledge and skills necessary to support what wellness looks like for you and your relationships during your life transitions.
Life transitions can be unsettling and isolating. My hope as a therapist is to support and empower my clients on their path towards healing. Utilizing a trauma-informed, non-judgmental space, I specialize in helping individuals, couples and families build a strong connection rooted in trust and acceptance. We will work together to build the knowledge and skills necessary to support what wellness looks like for you and your relationships during your life transitions.
(484) 559-6391 View (484) 559-6391
Photo of Jeffrey Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Jeffrey Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106  (Online Only)
I work through a multimodality system including Emotionally Focused therapy, Gottman, CBT, EMDR, Systemic and structural theories.
With over 20 years of mental health experience and 14 years practicing therapy, I have learned to specialize in relationship/couples therapy and work as well as individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other life and circumstantial issues. If you are looking to repair, strengthen, regain connection, improve intimacy, or generally work on your relationships or your mental health I can help you find that path. My experience has also led me to work with trauma in a systemic and experiential way and utilize EMDR, mindfulness and trauma informed interventions.
I work through a multimodality system including Emotionally Focused therapy, Gottman, CBT, EMDR, Systemic and structural theories.
With over 20 years of mental health experience and 14 years practicing therapy, I have learned to specialize in relationship/couples therapy and work as well as individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other life and circumstantial issues. If you are looking to repair, strengthen, regain connection, improve intimacy, or generally work on your relationships or your mental health I can help you find that path. My experience has also led me to work with trauma in a systemic and experiential way and utilize EMDR, mindfulness and trauma informed interventions.
(267) 214-4821 View (267) 214-4821
Photo of Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Our clinicians have training in Emotionally Focused therapy CBT, DBT and TF-CBT.
"Life doesn't get easier or more forgiving , we get stronger and more resilient" Steve Maraboli. If you are reading this, you have already taken the hardest step toward feeling better- reaching out for help. At Compass we understand that it is important for you to feel understood, heard and supported. When we all are working as a team, those things will be automatic. Our approach is direct yet very compassionate. Our goal is for us together to identify the cause of your issues, to develop what is needed and how it can be achieved. We would like to get you unstuck and on the path to happiness.
Our clinicians have training in Emotionally Focused therapy CBT, DBT and TF-CBT.
"Life doesn't get easier or more forgiving , we get stronger and more resilient" Steve Maraboli. If you are reading this, you have already taken the hardest step toward feeling better- reaching out for help. At Compass we understand that it is important for you to feel understood, heard and supported. When we all are working as a team, those things will be automatic. Our approach is direct yet very compassionate. Our goal is for us together to identify the cause of your issues, to develop what is needed and how it can be achieved. We would like to get you unstuck and on the path to happiness.
(202) 998-5586 View (202) 998-5586
Photo of Samantha Appel, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Samantha Appel
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
I believe that everyone deserves a time and a place to work on their mental health, heal from painful experiences, and move towards finding more meaning in their lives and relationships. I also know that given the current pandemic, we're all struggling more than usual! I offer a warm and judgment-free zone to work on a range of issues. I believe psychotherapy works best when it is tailored to each person as a unique individual. I utilize an integrative model, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), relational, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and humanistic approaches.
I believe that everyone deserves a time and a place to work on their mental health, heal from painful experiences, and move towards finding more meaning in their lives and relationships. I also know that given the current pandemic, we're all struggling more than usual! I offer a warm and judgment-free zone to work on a range of issues. I believe psychotherapy works best when it is tailored to each person as a unique individual. I utilize an integrative model, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), relational, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and humanistic approaches.
(267) 394-9291 View (267) 394-9291
Photo of Kerri Marsh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Kerri Marsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Kerri Marsh is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, improved communication, parenting concerns, substance use and relationship issues.
Kerri Marsh is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) who has over 20 years of experience working with adolescents, adults and couples seeking help with depression, anxiety, life transitions, improved communication, parenting concerns, substance use and relationship issues.
(484) 759-9428 View (484) 759-9428
Photo of Melanie Basden Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Philadelphia, PA
Melanie Basden Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, MFT, Intern
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
My treatment approach is one of inspiration, Reality theory, Emotionally focused therapy, and Cognitive and Positive therapy.
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming when seeking therapy, but that is where I come in. I view the Psychotherapy process as a team effort where we work together to work through your trauma or relationship problems. I love building a rapport with my couples to work through the healing process together.
My treatment approach is one of inspiration, Reality theory, Emotionally focused therapy, and Cognitive and Positive therapy.
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming when seeking therapy, but that is where I come in. I view the Psychotherapy process as a team effort where we work together to work through your trauma or relationship problems. I love building a rapport with my couples to work through the healing process together.
(215) 201-4442 View (215) 201-4442
Photo of Melanie Susskind Sutow, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Melanie Susskind Sutow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125
To guide our work together, I draw upon a range of therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Structural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome! I am a dedicated individual, couples, and family therapist committed to providing an inviting space for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. I recognize the courage it takes to start your therapeutic journey, and I am here to build a foundation of safety and trust as we walk this path together. My innate curiosity, attunement and warmth allows me to listen to your unique experiences and tailor my therapeutic approach to suit your specific needs and goals.
To guide our work together, I draw upon a range of therapeutic modalities, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Structural Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome! I am a dedicated individual, couples, and family therapist committed to providing an inviting space for self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. I recognize the courage it takes to start your therapeutic journey, and I am here to build a foundation of safety and trust as we walk this path together. My innate curiosity, attunement and warmth allows me to listen to your unique experiences and tailor my therapeutic approach to suit your specific needs and goals.
(215) 402-5627 View (215) 402-5627
Photo of Katie O'Connor, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Katie O'Connor
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19147
My approach is influenced by CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Attachment, and EFT.
Mental health struggles are common but your particular experience with them is unique. That is why your relationship with your therapist is so crucial. To have someone who is there for you for the sole purpose of providing support is such an amazing and empowering experience. I get to know you as an individual, help you identify your strengths, and find access to your resilience. You may have lost insight into your important qualities due to life events or a mental health disorder. Let us investigate what has gotten in your way and how to move through it to get to the other side.
My approach is influenced by CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Attachment, and EFT.
Mental health struggles are common but your particular experience with them is unique. That is why your relationship with your therapist is so crucial. To have someone who is there for you for the sole purpose of providing support is such an amazing and empowering experience. I get to know you as an individual, help you identify your strengths, and find access to your resilience. You may have lost insight into your important qualities due to life events or a mental health disorder. Let us investigate what has gotten in your way and how to move through it to get to the other side.
(267) 668-1677 View (267) 668-1677
Photo of Dr. Janet Hope Horwitz, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Janet Hope Horwitz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
In my work with couples, I use Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy which is based in building trust in relationships.
Having the ear of a thoughtful and experienced therapist can provide clarity and renewed hope during challenging times. I create a supportive space to help you more closely tune into your thoughts and emotions as we explore, at your own pace, past and current circumstances that might be troubling you. This leads to a greater understanding of your fears and needs in your relationships, a sense of empowerment and the ability to more effectively communicate with important others. As I assist you in processing your emotions, these become more manageable. You are freed up to feel more at peace, present and engaged in life.
In my work with couples, I use Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy which is based in building trust in relationships.
Having the ear of a thoughtful and experienced therapist can provide clarity and renewed hope during challenging times. I create a supportive space to help you more closely tune into your thoughts and emotions as we explore, at your own pace, past and current circumstances that might be troubling you. This leads to a greater understanding of your fears and needs in your relationships, a sense of empowerment and the ability to more effectively communicate with important others. As I assist you in processing your emotions, these become more manageable. You are freed up to feel more at peace, present and engaged in life.
(215) 544-2595 View (215) 544-2595
Photo of Rachel Milberg, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Rachel Milberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
My work is informed by narrative therapy, emotionally focused therapy, mindfulness, systems theory, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Welcome! I'm Rachel. In my therapy, I care about building a space with you that is safe and uniquely yours, where you can share what is on your mind and feel supported in making meaningful changes to your life. I believe in the power of being heard and understood, and strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental therapeutic experience for those I work with. I use a relational and systemic framework by exploring challenges in the context of our world and our relationships. I bring my personality into my work, including my sense of humor, curiosity, and compassion. I look forward to learning more about you and your goals!
My work is informed by narrative therapy, emotionally focused therapy, mindfulness, systems theory, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Welcome! I'm Rachel. In my therapy, I care about building a space with you that is safe and uniquely yours, where you can share what is on your mind and feel supported in making meaningful changes to your life. I believe in the power of being heard and understood, and strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental therapeutic experience for those I work with. I use a relational and systemic framework by exploring challenges in the context of our world and our relationships. I bring my personality into my work, including my sense of humor, curiosity, and compassion. I look forward to learning more about you and your goals!
(267) 214-8815 View (267) 214-8815
Photo of Dr. Kevana Nixon in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. Kevana Nixon
DCFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143
With my extensive training and continuious supervision I use such interventions that are based from emotionally focused therapy and attachment theory.
I look froward to helping you plan for your partnership or marriage instead of your wedding day! I specialize in working with couples who are pondering the idea of a life time partnership and marriage that want to plan for their life that includes skills such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and parenting.
With my extensive training and continuious supervision I use such interventions that are based from emotionally focused therapy and attachment theory.
I look froward to helping you plan for your partnership or marriage instead of your wedding day! I specialize in working with couples who are pondering the idea of a life time partnership and marriage that want to plan for their life that includes skills such as effective communication, conflict resolution, and parenting.
(610) 624-6574 View (610) 624-6574
Photo of The Better You Institute, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
The Better You Institute
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19109
Experience personalized care with our therapists' eclectic approach, blending CBT, Trauma-Focused, EFT, Gottman, IFS, DBT, etc.
You're a successful person, yet you feel as if something is missing. It seems like you're caught in a cycle of conflict and negativity, both within yourself and with others. What you really desire is the sense of calmness that comes with confidence. Instead, frustration and exhaustion seem to be your constant companions. You're eager for a transformation! Let's embark on this journey together, igniting your potential, unveiling new possibilities, and sculpting the life you envision. Or, maybe you're here for your child or teen. You sense their struggle, understanding their pain even when words fail them. You both feel stuck.
Experience personalized care with our therapists' eclectic approach, blending CBT, Trauma-Focused, EFT, Gottman, IFS, DBT, etc.
You're a successful person, yet you feel as if something is missing. It seems like you're caught in a cycle of conflict and negativity, both within yourself and with others. What you really desire is the sense of calmness that comes with confidence. Instead, frustration and exhaustion seem to be your constant companions. You're eager for a transformation! Let's embark on this journey together, igniting your potential, unveiling new possibilities, and sculpting the life you envision. Or, maybe you're here for your child or teen. You sense their struggle, understanding their pain even when words fail them. You both feel stuck.
(267) 390-4604 View (267) 390-4604
Photo of Kaiyan Griffith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Kaiyan Griffith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118  (Online Only)
I utilize therapeutic techniques such as EFT, attachment, CBT, Solutions-Focused, & Narrative.
My ideal clients are from all walks of life. From helping a someone explore their gender identity, guiding polyamorous partners through conflict/understanding, to helping parents with their teenager who struggles with depression. Everyone client I meet is unique, and I'm honored to be apart of their healing journey.
I utilize therapeutic techniques such as EFT, attachment, CBT, Solutions-Focused, & Narrative.
My ideal clients are from all walks of life. From helping a someone explore their gender identity, guiding polyamorous partners through conflict/understanding, to helping parents with their teenager who struggles with depression. Everyone client I meet is unique, and I'm honored to be apart of their healing journey.
(267) 662-1553 x102 View (267) 662-1553 x102
Photo of Michael E Keesler, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Michael E Keesler
Psychologist, PhD, JD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128  (Online Only)
Teletherapy openings available for individuals and couples ... I believe most people are doing their best, with the tools they have, for themselves and those they care about. Making changes may mean adapting old tools, acquiring new ones, or a combination of the two. In my practice we do that with a mixture of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and - especially for couples - Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Teletherapy openings available for individuals and couples ... I believe most people are doing their best, with the tools they have, for themselves and those they care about. Making changes may mean adapting old tools, acquiring new ones, or a combination of the two. In my practice we do that with a mixture of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and - especially for couples - Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
(215) 437-0632 View (215) 437-0632
Photo of Saudia S Bickley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Saudia S Bickley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19124
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused therapy into my practice.
I work with a diverse group of individuals that have one thing in common, a desire to change and improve their lives. I partner with adult clients who are facing issues with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (nail biting, hair pulling, skin pulling), stress management, and life transitions. I also work with couples whose goal is to create strong, loving, and, supportive connections.
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused therapy into my practice.
I work with a diverse group of individuals that have one thing in common, a desire to change and improve their lives. I partner with adult clients who are facing issues with ADHD, anxiety, depression, Body Focused Repetitive Behaviors (nail biting, hair pulling, skin pulling), stress management, and life transitions. I also work with couples whose goal is to create strong, loving, and, supportive connections.
(610) 508-9593 View (610) 508-9593
Photo of Derik B Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Derik B Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
In my current practice, I take a relational, client-centered approach to individual therapy, while remaining eclectic and drawing from CBT, DBT, EFT, and Attachment Theory.
Hi, I'm Derik Moore, LCSW. I worked as an outpatient psychotherapist and clinical supervisor for 10 years in the community mental health realm prior to establishing my own practice. I began my career working with those living with HIV as an activist in the mid-1990s in Newark and New Brunswick, NJ, where I engaged in street outreach and advocated for a harm reduction approach. This work informed my commitment to public health and to exploring how economic and sociological factors play significant roles in the ways we move through the world. I have also been a musician for nearly 40 years and offer virtual and in-person drum lessons.
In my current practice, I take a relational, client-centered approach to individual therapy, while remaining eclectic and drawing from CBT, DBT, EFT, and Attachment Theory.
Hi, I'm Derik Moore, LCSW. I worked as an outpatient psychotherapist and clinical supervisor for 10 years in the community mental health realm prior to establishing my own practice. I began my career working with those living with HIV as an activist in the mid-1990s in Newark and New Brunswick, NJ, where I engaged in street outreach and advocated for a harm reduction approach. This work informed my commitment to public health and to exploring how economic and sociological factors play significant roles in the ways we move through the world. I have also been a musician for nearly 40 years and offer virtual and in-person drum lessons.
(610) 600-1396 View (610) 600-1396
Photo of Beatrice Desir in Philadelphia, PA
Beatrice Desir
DO
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19134  (Online Only)
Desir's practice focuses on medication management, supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Desir is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate training at The University of Scranton followed by medical school at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at Nassau University Medical Center where she served as the Administrative Chief Resident in her final year. Dr. Desir has been in practice for 4 years and has provided patients with compassionate psychiatric care. She is experienced in treating various psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
Desir's practice focuses on medication management, supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Desir is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate training at The University of Scranton followed by medical school at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at Nassau University Medical Center where she served as the Administrative Chief Resident in her final year. Dr. Desir has been in practice for 4 years and has provided patients with compassionate psychiatric care. She is experienced in treating various psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
(267) 361-2038 View (267) 361-2038
Photo of Laura F Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Laura F Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT, MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Laura is a Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about cultivating meaningful and healing relationships with her clients by working with each client individually to understand and empathize with their unique set of challenges and needs. Laura’s approach to therapy is taking on a compassionate, caring, and genuine therapeutic stance with all of her clients, creating a safe and warm environment for everyone who walks through her door. She uses a multitude of systemic approaches when working with her clients, with an emphasis on Emotionally Focused Therapy and The Gottman Method, in which she holds a Level 3 certification.
Laura is a Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about cultivating meaningful and healing relationships with her clients by working with each client individually to understand and empathize with their unique set of challenges and needs. Laura’s approach to therapy is taking on a compassionate, caring, and genuine therapeutic stance with all of her clients, creating a safe and warm environment for everyone who walks through her door. She uses a multitude of systemic approaches when working with her clients, with an emphasis on Emotionally Focused Therapy and The Gottman Method, in which she holds a Level 3 certification.
(267) 214-6587 View (267) 214-6587

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.