Emotionally Focused Therapists in Austin, TX

Photo of Heather Thiel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Heather Thiel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78739  (Online Only)
I love working with both individuals and couples! I believe everyone deserves to be happy and comfortable in mind, body, and relationships. Unfortunately, anxiety, stress, self-doubt, depression, and misunderstandings can knock you out of life’s driver’s seat. In my couples counseling work, I use EFT and the Gottman method to assist partners in healing patterns of miscommunication and disconnection. Couples learn to express their deepest feelings, respond rather than react, and make successful bids for connection.
I love working with both individuals and couples! I believe everyone deserves to be happy and comfortable in mind, body, and relationships. Unfortunately, anxiety, stress, self-doubt, depression, and misunderstandings can knock you out of life’s driver’s seat. In my couples counseling work, I use EFT and the Gottman method to assist partners in healing patterns of miscommunication and disconnection. Couples learn to express their deepest feelings, respond rather than react, and make successful bids for connection.
(737) 637-4516 View (737) 637-4516
Photo of Josephine Bibby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Josephine Bibby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
I use a trauma-informed and emotionally focused approach to allow my clients to build self-compassion and to live more self-directed, peaceful lives.
I believe that people change when we feel safe.  Through a genuine and trust-centered therapy relationship, my job is to create room for exploration and self-acceptance so that my clients’ lives can improve. Many of my clients have difficult family relationships, struggle with boundaries, and are working on finding love from within, rather than externally. I help them discover how to create a life with more love, patience, and peace.
I use a trauma-informed and emotionally focused approach to allow my clients to build self-compassion and to live more self-directed, peaceful lives.
I believe that people change when we feel safe.  Through a genuine and trust-centered therapy relationship, my job is to create room for exploration and self-acceptance so that my clients’ lives can improve. Many of my clients have difficult family relationships, struggle with boundaries, and are working on finding love from within, rather than externally. I help them discover how to create a life with more love, patience, and peace.
(512) 710-5828 View (512) 710-5828
Photo of Janet Price - Couple Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Janet Price - Couple Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
If you and your partner are both busy professionals, you might find it hard to connect emotionally and communicate your needs. That's why emotionally focused couple therapy (EFCT) could be a great option for you. EFCT is a type of therapy that helps couples identify and change their negative patterns of interaction and create more secure and satisfying bonds. EFCT can help you and your partner understand each other better, express your feelings more openly, and resolve conflicts more effectively. EFCT can also improve your intimacy, trust, and happiness as a couple.
If you and your partner are both busy professionals, you might find it hard to connect emotionally and communicate your needs. That's why emotionally focused couple therapy (EFCT) could be a great option for you. EFCT is a type of therapy that helps couples identify and change their negative patterns of interaction and create more secure and satisfying bonds. EFCT can help you and your partner understand each other better, express your feelings more openly, and resolve conflicts more effectively. EFCT can also improve your intimacy, trust, and happiness as a couple.
(512) 866-9802 View (512) 866-9802
Photo of Tara Joyner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Tara Joyner, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
I combine Gottman method, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to find a therapeutic approach best-fit for each client.
My practice focuses mainly on topics surrounding relationship difficulties, depression/anxiety, sexual problems, and infertility. I work with male and female clients equally and work with all couple types. I believe you are the expert on your background, experiences, values, and goals. The therapeutic relationship relies on honesty, mutual respect, sharing, and openness. Making a connection is vital to the process. My ultimate goal is to help you define and attain the goals you want in life, and direct you on a healthy path to achieve them.
I combine Gottman method, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to find a therapeutic approach best-fit for each client.
My practice focuses mainly on topics surrounding relationship difficulties, depression/anxiety, sexual problems, and infertility. I work with male and female clients equally and work with all couple types. I believe you are the expert on your background, experiences, values, and goals. The therapeutic relationship relies on honesty, mutual respect, sharing, and openness. Making a connection is vital to the process. My ultimate goal is to help you define and attain the goals you want in life, and direct you on a healthy path to achieve them.
(512) 337-3858 View (512) 337-3858
Photo of Ina Huber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Ina Huber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78739  (Online Only)
In working with couples, I focus on the research based approaches of John Gottman and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
The possibilities for change, healing, and well-being often aren't trusted if you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or difficult circumstances. My goal is to provide support and safety for you to explore and understand problems with emotions, relationships, and painful past and present experiences. It is possible to come to terms with difficult issues, accept (not like) these human experiences, and move through them to change.
In working with couples, I focus on the research based approaches of John Gottman and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
The possibilities for change, healing, and well-being often aren't trusted if you are dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or difficult circumstances. My goal is to provide support and safety for you to explore and understand problems with emotions, relationships, and painful past and present experiences. It is possible to come to terms with difficult issues, accept (not like) these human experiences, and move through them to change.
(512) 686-5177 View (512) 686-5177
Photo of RePair Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
RePair Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
The idea behind RePair Therapy is renewal. And not just for couples—for individuals too. Maybe you're in a new relationship after a break-up or divorce, and you don't want to make the same mistakes twice. Maybe this is a second marriage (or third, fourth) for you and your partner. Maybe you're divorced, but you still have to communicate and make major decisions with your ex about your children. Maybe you're coping with a new divorce and need to find a way to reinvent yourself and your life. I specialize in Emotionally Focused Couples therapy and take United Insurance.
The idea behind RePair Therapy is renewal. And not just for couples—for individuals too. Maybe you're in a new relationship after a break-up or divorce, and you don't want to make the same mistakes twice. Maybe this is a second marriage (or third, fourth) for you and your partner. Maybe you're divorced, but you still have to communicate and make major decisions with your ex about your children. Maybe you're coping with a new divorce and need to find a way to reinvent yourself and your life. I specialize in Emotionally Focused Couples therapy and take United Insurance.
(512) 948-3443 View (512) 948-3443
Photo of Esmé Valette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Esmé Valette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdM, EMDR, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
With couples, I use an evidence-based approach called Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which draws on attachment theory and the science of emotions.
I strive to create a therapeutic environment where you feel comfortable expressing whatever is on your mind without fear of judgment. I believe that you are the expert in your own healing, and I will work collaboratively with you to identify and reach your treatment goals. I use approaches that have been scientifically researched and found to be effective, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and somatic and mindfulness-based interventions. I will work with you to ensure that you are not in therapy longer than is necessary to reach your treatment goals.
With couples, I use an evidence-based approach called Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which draws on attachment theory and the science of emotions.
I strive to create a therapeutic environment where you feel comfortable expressing whatever is on your mind without fear of judgment. I believe that you are the expert in your own healing, and I will work collaboratively with you to identify and reach your treatment goals. I use approaches that have been scientifically researched and found to be effective, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and somatic and mindfulness-based interventions. I will work with you to ensure that you are not in therapy longer than is necessary to reach your treatment goals.
(512) 548-2372 View (512) 548-2372
Photo of Don D Allen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Don D Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Welcome! I am Dr. Don Allen. I have a concierge practice and have formally opened my Austin, Texas office! I currently specialize in the treatment of Marriage and Emotional Trauma. I am a Certified Gottman Therapist, Certified EFT Therapist and EMDR Certified Therapist. Prior to 2012, I specialized in the treatment of Children and Adolescents and Drug and Alcohol Intervention. Please visit my website to get to know me, learn more about my practice, see videos and listen to my live radio broadcasts. Looking forward!
Welcome! I am Dr. Don Allen. I have a concierge practice and have formally opened my Austin, Texas office! I currently specialize in the treatment of Marriage and Emotional Trauma. I am a Certified Gottman Therapist, Certified EFT Therapist and EMDR Certified Therapist. Prior to 2012, I specialized in the treatment of Children and Adolescents and Drug and Alcohol Intervention. Please visit my website to get to know me, learn more about my practice, see videos and listen to my live radio broadcasts. Looking forward!
(512) 601-5297 View (512) 601-5297
Photo of Irek Banaczyk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Irek Banaczyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
Informed by developmental neurobiology and emotionally focused experiential psychotherapies, I aim to be a gentle collaborator in your process of transformation toward the person you aspire to be.
It takes courage to seek out therapy, so congratulations on taking the first step in your journey of therapeutic healing and connection to self and others. What happens in the therapeutic setting in conjunction with lifestyle enhancements can, over time, bring about lasting change. With gentle facilitation, you can increase awareness of body and mind and enhance mood, motivation, agency, and integration of skills. These self-improvements allow for a more self-directed life that can be lived more fully through consciously curated personal values and choices.
Informed by developmental neurobiology and emotionally focused experiential psychotherapies, I aim to be a gentle collaborator in your process of transformation toward the person you aspire to be.
It takes courage to seek out therapy, so congratulations on taking the first step in your journey of therapeutic healing and connection to self and others. What happens in the therapeutic setting in conjunction with lifestyle enhancements can, over time, bring about lasting change. With gentle facilitation, you can increase awareness of body and mind and enhance mood, motivation, agency, and integration of skills. These self-improvements allow for a more self-directed life that can be lived more fully through consciously curated personal values and choices.
(512) 675-5787 View (512) 675-5787
Photo of Paul Boone, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Paul Boone, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, LPC, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
I am an advanced clinician in Imago Therapy. When relationships aren't working very well or are on the brink of ending, it really feels bad; like the rug is being pulled out from under you. Often there are solvable reasons for why these things happen. I am motivated by those methods such as Imago therapy and EFT which have worked so well for so many in the past to help couples develop a high degree of safe attachment in their relationships. Something, that once they have learned how to do it, they can take with them because it is portable.
I am an advanced clinician in Imago Therapy. When relationships aren't working very well or are on the brink of ending, it really feels bad; like the rug is being pulled out from under you. Often there are solvable reasons for why these things happen. I am motivated by those methods such as Imago therapy and EFT which have worked so well for so many in the past to help couples develop a high degree of safe attachment in their relationships. Something, that once they have learned how to do it, they can take with them because it is portable.
(512) 851-0660 View (512) 851-0660
Photo of Tiffany Stanley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Tiffany Stanley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, MA, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Dr. Tiffany Stanley is an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist, an American Board of Sexology Diplomat and she holds a doctorate in Clinical Sexology. She is Texas-Board-Approved Licensed Psychotherapist and Supervisor, Nationally and Internationally Certified and Registered Psychotherapist, an EMDR trained counselor, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) trained therapist. She is also a registered Heal Your Life Workshop Leader and a Certified Life Coach. She has been in private practice for more than 19 years, specializing in helping adult women, men and couples.
Dr. Tiffany Stanley is an AASECT-Certified Sex Therapist, an American Board of Sexology Diplomat and she holds a doctorate in Clinical Sexology. She is Texas-Board-Approved Licensed Psychotherapist and Supervisor, Nationally and Internationally Certified and Registered Psychotherapist, an EMDR trained counselor, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) trained therapist. She is also a registered Heal Your Life Workshop Leader and a Certified Life Coach. She has been in private practice for more than 19 years, specializing in helping adult women, men and couples.
(512) 270-6167 View (512) 270-6167
Photo of Abundant Life Counseling Services, PA, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Abundant Life Counseling Services, PA
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78750
Each therapist on our staff of 12 has unique specialties, including therapy for adults and teens, play therapy, marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery, EFT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, family therapy, and premarital counseling.
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., is a professional Christian counseling practice seeking to help people live and love more abundantly through practicing faith-based and traditional counseling methods. Each therapist on our staff is committed to helping you discover life beyond broken relationships, impaired thinking, painful behavior patterns, and debilitating intense emotions. You will be seen and known in your relational, emotional, psychological, or spiritual struggle, experiencing what it's like to be accepted, understood, and deeply challenged as your therapist joins you on a journey toward God's hope and healing.
Each therapist on our staff of 12 has unique specialties, including therapy for adults and teens, play therapy, marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery, EFT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, family therapy, and premarital counseling.
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., is a professional Christian counseling practice seeking to help people live and love more abundantly through practicing faith-based and traditional counseling methods. Each therapist on our staff is committed to helping you discover life beyond broken relationships, impaired thinking, painful behavior patterns, and debilitating intense emotions. You will be seen and known in your relational, emotional, psychological, or spiritual struggle, experiencing what it's like to be accepted, understood, and deeply challenged as your therapist joins you on a journey toward God's hope and healing.
(512) 846-9396 View (512) 846-9396
Photo of Diana Schaefer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Diana Schaefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I have advanced training in EFT (Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy) and this helps couple's to recognize their cycle or "dance" and how to change the "steps" to get out of it.
I work with couples who are ready to tired of floundering and ready to invest in changing their marriage. I also focus on trauma and helping create lasting change with EMDR. I have over 30 years of experience and training in couples, EMDR, and individual work. I provide a respectful, non-judgmental and caring environment for clients to explore and heal old wounds, reduce their anxiety and depression, enhance communication in their relationships and assist them in reaching their personal goals to have a happier more fulfilled life. If this sounds like you, contact me today to get started.
I have advanced training in EFT (Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy) and this helps couple's to recognize their cycle or "dance" and how to change the "steps" to get out of it.
I work with couples who are ready to tired of floundering and ready to invest in changing their marriage. I also focus on trauma and helping create lasting change with EMDR. I have over 30 years of experience and training in couples, EMDR, and individual work. I provide a respectful, non-judgmental and caring environment for clients to explore and heal old wounds, reduce their anxiety and depression, enhance communication in their relationships and assist them in reaching their personal goals to have a happier more fulfilled life. If this sounds like you, contact me today to get started.
(512) 661-7757 x2 View (512) 661-7757 x2
Photo of Group Therapy Austin by Ji Young Kim MA. LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Group Therapy Austin by Ji Young Kim MA. LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ST-S, ALST-GT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
I am a Licensed Professorial Counselor. I am specialized with Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I worked in clinical settings, including behavioral health services with inpatients and out patients setting, and have worked with a wide variety of clients: individuals, couples, groups, families. I help you fine-tune your lives so that your pain is smaller and your joys are greater. Through compassion, respect, and working together, I strive to create a strong and trusting relationship with each and every client in order help you reach your goals.
I am a Licensed Professorial Counselor. I am specialized with Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I worked in clinical settings, including behavioral health services with inpatients and out patients setting, and have worked with a wide variety of clients: individuals, couples, groups, families. I help you fine-tune your lives so that your pain is smaller and your joys are greater. Through compassion, respect, and working together, I strive to create a strong and trusting relationship with each and every client in order help you reach your goals.
(512) 572-9296 View (512) 572-9296
Photo of Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., Licensed Professional Counselor in Austin, TX
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78750
Each therapist on our staff of 12 has unique specialties, including therapy for adults and teens, play therapy, marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery, EFT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, family therapy, and premarital counseling.
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., is a professional Christian counseling practice seeking to help people live and love more abundantly through practicing faith-based and traditional counseling methods. Each therapist on our staff is committed to helping you discover life beyond broken relationships, impaired thinking, painful behavior patterns, and debilitating intense emotions. You will be seen and known in your relational, emotional, psychological, or spiritual struggle, experiencing what it's like to be accepted, understood, and deeply challenged as your therapist joins you on a journey toward God's hope and healing.
Each therapist on our staff of 12 has unique specialties, including therapy for adults and teens, play therapy, marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery, EFT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, family therapy, and premarital counseling.
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., is a professional Christian counseling practice seeking to help people live and love more abundantly through practicing faith-based and traditional counseling methods. Each therapist on our staff is committed to helping you discover life beyond broken relationships, impaired thinking, painful behavior patterns, and debilitating intense emotions. You will be seen and known in your relational, emotional, psychological, or spiritual struggle, experiencing what it's like to be accepted, understood, and deeply challenged as your therapist joins you on a journey toward God's hope and healing.
(512) 960-3584 View (512) 960-3584
Photo of Lindsey Heddleston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Lindsey Heddleston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
I believe we heal through relationship and I believe relational joy is profoundly therapeutic. I work with individuals, couples and children through a systems/attachment theory lens. I incorporate parts work, IFS, polyvagal theory, interpersonal neurobiology and somatic integration. I'm particularly interested in supporting parents and children through family adjustment periods. When I work with couples I use a combination of EFT and RLT to explore relational dynamics that are getting in the way of supportive connection.
I believe we heal through relationship and I believe relational joy is profoundly therapeutic. I work with individuals, couples and children through a systems/attachment theory lens. I incorporate parts work, IFS, polyvagal theory, interpersonal neurobiology and somatic integration. I'm particularly interested in supporting parents and children through family adjustment periods. When I work with couples I use a combination of EFT and RLT to explore relational dynamics that are getting in the way of supportive connection.
(512) 886-9415 View (512) 886-9415
Photo of Moné Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Austin, TX
Moné Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748
I am trained in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Couples looking to increase connection and intimacy, individuals exploring identity, anxiety and perfectionism, those looking to decrease substance use, and those interested in psychedelics.
I am trained in Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Couples looking to increase connection and intimacy, individuals exploring identity, anxiety and perfectionism, those looking to decrease substance use, and those interested in psychedelics.
(737) 345-3869 x1 View (737) 345-3869 x1
Photo of Shana Sheeran, PhD LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Austin, TX
Shana Sheeran, PhD LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CCTP-II, CTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78732
I also use elements of EFT, Internal Family Systems, Sandtray, Psychodrama and other experiential modalities to help my clients heal and move forward.
Do you want your relationships to be better? How about your relationship with yourself? Have you experienced trauma in important relationships and struggle with anxiety, depression, guilt, low self esteem? I believe relationships are extremely important in our growth and development. This belief begins with, and is evidenced by, the relationship I will work to form with you!
I also use elements of EFT, Internal Family Systems, Sandtray, Psychodrama and other experiential modalities to help my clients heal and move forward.
Do you want your relationships to be better? How about your relationship with yourself? Have you experienced trauma in important relationships and struggle with anxiety, depression, guilt, low self esteem? I believe relationships are extremely important in our growth and development. This belief begins with, and is evidenced by, the relationship I will work to form with you!
(512) 942-0737 View (512) 942-0737
Photo of Ryan Hester, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Austin, TX
Ryan Hester
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Hello, and welcome! I am delighted to share a glimpse into my work to support individuals and couples in their pursuit of healthy, fulfilling relationships. I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for utilizing evidence-based methods such as PACT, EFT, Gottman, and Attachment Theory to promote lasting change and growth. Our work will address the unique challenges and dynamics that arise within your relationships. I also specialize in working with individuals and couples who are impacted by ADHD. As a therapist with ADHD, I understand the intricate ways in which it can impact relationships, communication, and daily life.
Hello, and welcome! I am delighted to share a glimpse into my work to support individuals and couples in their pursuit of healthy, fulfilling relationships. I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for utilizing evidence-based methods such as PACT, EFT, Gottman, and Attachment Theory to promote lasting change and growth. Our work will address the unique challenges and dynamics that arise within your relationships. I also specialize in working with individuals and couples who are impacted by ADHD. As a therapist with ADHD, I understand the intricate ways in which it can impact relationships, communication, and daily life.
(512) 641-5404 View (512) 641-5404
Photo of Sarah Kerwin Carlin, LPC Associate in Austin, TX
Sarah Kerwin Carlin
LPC Associate, LPC A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I primarily utilize an integrative approach, leaning heavily on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) combined with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a focus on arousal regulation, somatic processing, mindfulness, and attachment theory.
Are you struggling with your intimate relationships? As an adult this can be relationships with a romantic partner, your family, or socially with friends. Are you seeking to re-connect with your partner? Perhaps you're a parent wanting to connect and understand your child better? Or maybe you're looking back on your childhood and wishing you could heal old wounds? As an adult, our intimate relationships can be a real pain point in our daily lives and relational issues can present themselves in various ways and situations. Whatever your unique situation is I am here to help and walk alongside you on your healing journey.
I primarily utilize an integrative approach, leaning heavily on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) combined with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a focus on arousal regulation, somatic processing, mindfulness, and attachment theory.
Are you struggling with your intimate relationships? As an adult this can be relationships with a romantic partner, your family, or socially with friends. Are you seeking to re-connect with your partner? Perhaps you're a parent wanting to connect and understand your child better? Or maybe you're looking back on your childhood and wishing you could heal old wounds? As an adult, our intimate relationships can be a real pain point in our daily lives and relational issues can present themselves in various ways and situations. Whatever your unique situation is I am here to help and walk alongside you on your healing journey.
(512) 883-2582 View (512) 883-2582
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.