Photo of Abby Renée Streitz, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Abby Renée Streitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78216
Some approaches for which I am currently trained are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Couples Therapy.
Depression, anxiety, and the effects of traumatic experiences can get in the way of you living the kind of life you want.
Some approaches for which I am currently trained are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Couples Therapy.
Depression, anxiety, and the effects of traumatic experiences can get in the way of you living the kind of life you want.
(210) 791-6389 View (210) 791-6389
Photo of Kimberly Dunlap, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Kimberly Dunlap
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
I am a certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapist.
You are not alone! When trying to cope with life’s ups and downs it can be helpful to seek counsel from one who can remain objective. As a Licensed Professional Counselor I work to facilitate: marriage *relationships * personal growth * life transitions * grief/loss * mental health diagnosis * substance abuse recovery * parenting the special needs child
I am a certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapist.
You are not alone! When trying to cope with life’s ups and downs it can be helpful to seek counsel from one who can remain objective. As a Licensed Professional Counselor I work to facilitate: marriage *relationships * personal growth * life transitions * grief/loss * mental health diagnosis * substance abuse recovery * parenting the special needs child
(210) 742-5092 View (210) 742-5092
Photo of Whitni F Toson, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Whitni F Toson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, EMDR, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78254
Utilizing EMDR therapy, EFT, and CBT, I've supported clients from diverse backgrounds.
Do you desire deep and meaningful relationships? Are you looking for genuine closeness and connection but being held back by the fear of rejection? It's normal to want to feel safe and understood in relationships if you're a human. I know how daunting and disheartening it can be to navigate relationships when past experiences have left you feeling wounded and distrustful. I work with clients who feel "lost," lonely, or even resentful on their journeys through life, be it new parenthood, loss of a loved one, new job, memories from past trauma, or significant life adjustment.
Utilizing EMDR therapy, EFT, and CBT, I've supported clients from diverse backgrounds.
Do you desire deep and meaningful relationships? Are you looking for genuine closeness and connection but being held back by the fear of rejection? It's normal to want to feel safe and understood in relationships if you're a human. I know how daunting and disheartening it can be to navigate relationships when past experiences have left you feeling wounded and distrustful. I work with clients who feel "lost," lonely, or even resentful on their journeys through life, be it new parenthood, loss of a loved one, new job, memories from past trauma, or significant life adjustment.
(210) 585-4341 View (210) 585-4341
Photo of Jeremiah Neal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Jeremiah Neal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78251
Do you desire to develop understanding, healing, and connection? Do you long for a relationship that is safe, secure, and fulfilling? It would be a honor to support you. I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples and greatly desire to assist couples reconnect and bond in lasting new ways. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness approaches to support individual clients with various mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, and issues unique to men.
Do you desire to develop understanding, healing, and connection? Do you long for a relationship that is safe, secure, and fulfilling? It would be a honor to support you. I practice Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples and greatly desire to assist couples reconnect and bond in lasting new ways. I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness approaches to support individual clients with various mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, and issues unique to men.
(210) 405-9872 View (210) 405-9872
Photo of Gregorio Lozano, Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Gregorio Lozano
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216  (Online Only)
I use a well-established method called Emotionally Focused Therapy which helps you reconnect with your partner, or with other people in general in a healthy way.
Hi, my name is Gregorio but people call me Greg. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas where I offer online counseling. I work with people who are in relationships that make them feel overwhelmed with painful emotions. I help people understand themselves and their partners so that they can be able to connect to them or with each other. Together we will work towards gaining a different perspective, with new tools to help you connect with your partner. My belief is that all behaviors serve a purpose and all behaviors have an origin. This insight about ourselves and others helps us understand our relationships.
I use a well-established method called Emotionally Focused Therapy which helps you reconnect with your partner, or with other people in general in a healthy way.
Hi, my name is Gregorio but people call me Greg. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas where I offer online counseling. I work with people who are in relationships that make them feel overwhelmed with painful emotions. I help people understand themselves and their partners so that they can be able to connect to them or with each other. Together we will work towards gaining a different perspective, with new tools to help you connect with your partner. My belief is that all behaviors serve a purpose and all behaviors have an origin. This insight about ourselves and others helps us understand our relationships.
(210) 934-4071 View (210) 934-4071
Photo of Melissa Friesenhahn, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Melissa Friesenhahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
Waitlist for new clients
It has been a privilege to assist children, adults, and families in times of changes, uncertainty, adjustments, & struggles. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, certified EMDR therapist, an IFS-EMDR therapist, Prepared & Enrich counselor for couples, completed Level 1 & 2 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, & Emotionally Focus Therapy (EFT) for couples. I am trained in numerous therapeutic approaches. In a counseling session, we will explore emotional & cognitive barriers, past & present relationships, & collaboratively devise therapy goals. There are many different reasons to seek counseling in all stages of your life.
It has been a privilege to assist children, adults, and families in times of changes, uncertainty, adjustments, & struggles. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, certified EMDR therapist, an IFS-EMDR therapist, Prepared & Enrich counselor for couples, completed Level 1 & 2 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, & Emotionally Focus Therapy (EFT) for couples. I am trained in numerous therapeutic approaches. In a counseling session, we will explore emotional & cognitive barriers, past & present relationships, & collaboratively devise therapy goals. There are many different reasons to seek counseling in all stages of your life.
(210) 526-0757 View (210) 526-0757
Photo of Valerie K Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Valerie K Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78258
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and families.
My ideal clients are those who show a willingness to have me walk beside them and hold their pain as they seek clarification on the emotions that drive their distress. By seeking treatment to address relationship issues, they discover that other aspects of their experience are influenced by their powerful need to connect with their significant others. I am best suited to treating marital distress and disconnection between teens and their parents. I understand the unique importance of familial relationships and the significant relief that comes when these relationships are repaired.
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples and families.
My ideal clients are those who show a willingness to have me walk beside them and hold their pain as they seek clarification on the emotions that drive their distress. By seeking treatment to address relationship issues, they discover that other aspects of their experience are influenced by their powerful need to connect with their significant others. I am best suited to treating marital distress and disconnection between teens and their parents. I understand the unique importance of familial relationships and the significant relief that comes when these relationships are repaired.
(210) 791-9276 View (210) 791-9276
Photo of Align Couples Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Align Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78232
Each therapist has had advanced training in Gottman Method and/or Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
Do you feel alone, powerless and stuck in the same repeated arguments? Do you long for the connection and friendship you once had with your partner? When relationships are hurting, it affects everything. Underneath the painful surface could be many issues such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, shame, infidelity, substance use or parenting challenges. You deserve counseling based on science and research. You deserve respect and acceptance as you work through strengthening your relationship. Each couple has strengths and resiliencies that just need to be connected to the right tools for effective connection.
Each therapist has had advanced training in Gottman Method and/or Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
Do you feel alone, powerless and stuck in the same repeated arguments? Do you long for the connection and friendship you once had with your partner? When relationships are hurting, it affects everything. Underneath the painful surface could be many issues such as depression, ADHD, anxiety, shame, infidelity, substance use or parenting challenges. You deserve counseling based on science and research. You deserve respect and acceptance as you work through strengthening your relationship. Each couple has strengths and resiliencies that just need to be connected to the right tools for effective connection.
(210) 940-4694 View (210) 940-4694
Photo of The Counseling Spot, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
The Counseling Spot
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Along with standard talk therapy, we offer Sandtray therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
Are you having trouble finding joy and happiness? Does anxiety get the best of you sometimes? Do you just want your life to be easier or more enjoyable? We're here to help. Our therapists work with adults, children and adolescents, couples and families. Whether you want to repair damaged relationships, prepare children and teens for the future, or overcome the effects of trauma we have a counselor who is ready to work with you. You deserve satisfaction, peace and joy in life. It's possible! Let us help.
Along with standard talk therapy, we offer Sandtray therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples.
Are you having trouble finding joy and happiness? Does anxiety get the best of you sometimes? Do you just want your life to be easier or more enjoyable? We're here to help. Our therapists work with adults, children and adolescents, couples and families. Whether you want to repair damaged relationships, prepare children and teens for the future, or overcome the effects of trauma we have a counselor who is ready to work with you. You deserve satisfaction, peace and joy in life. It's possible! Let us help.
(210) 328-1644 View (210) 328-1644
Photo of Le Shepard, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Le Shepard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78205  (Online Only)
I’m an experienced counselor with advanced training in trauma and a certification in emotionally focused therapy.
You knew parenting would be hard but never guessed it would look like this. Caring for kids who struggle is exhausting and isolating. Maybe you adopted and now you’re living in a house ruled by trauma. Maybe your child has special needs and you are wading through grief. You absolutely love your kids but your own struggles are making it hard to show that. Now you’re ready to put on your own oxygen mask and get some help for yourself. You’re ready to start healing and face the parenting trauma you’ve walked through. Most of all, you’re ready to find peace inside yourself so you can show up for your kids in a way that you’re proud of.
I’m an experienced counselor with advanced training in trauma and a certification in emotionally focused therapy.
You knew parenting would be hard but never guessed it would look like this. Caring for kids who struggle is exhausting and isolating. Maybe you adopted and now you’re living in a house ruled by trauma. Maybe your child has special needs and you are wading through grief. You absolutely love your kids but your own struggles are making it hard to show that. Now you’re ready to put on your own oxygen mask and get some help for yourself. You’re ready to start healing and face the parenting trauma you’ve walked through. Most of all, you’re ready to find peace inside yourself so you can show up for your kids in a way that you’re proud of.
(940) 202-9597 View (940) 202-9597
Photo of Franny Haag Morar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Franny Haag Morar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78230
I am passionate about couples therapy and my work is highly influenced by EFT.
Offering Video Sessions for Texas and in person sessions for Califonia. We are usually afraid of our feelings. We try to avoid them, mask them, hide them. We live in a world that tells us to be happy. We try, but we can't, the feelings catch up with us. So we feel even worse. We feel lost, afraid, and guilty for feeling our feelings. In my practice, I provide a safe environment where you can start exploring your feelings, accept them, and work through them. I will help you get in touch with your inner/true self, accepting yourself for who you are, moving away from shame, guilt and fear, and starting the process of change.
I am passionate about couples therapy and my work is highly influenced by EFT.
Offering Video Sessions for Texas and in person sessions for Califonia. We are usually afraid of our feelings. We try to avoid them, mask them, hide them. We live in a world that tells us to be happy. We try, but we can't, the feelings catch up with us. So we feel even worse. We feel lost, afraid, and guilty for feeling our feelings. In my practice, I provide a safe environment where you can start exploring your feelings, accept them, and work through them. I will help you get in touch with your inner/true self, accepting yourself for who you are, moving away from shame, guilt and fear, and starting the process of change.
(323) 370-4863 View (323) 370-4863
Photo of Maile Giles, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Maile Giles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78212
Let's collaborate and explore what your internal roadblocks are to feel fully alive! What do you want your experience of life to be? What is unconscious that is stopping you from understanding and connecting with yourself, others, life? We can work together to identify blocks and blindspots, gain new awareness and tools. I utilize different types of therapy depending on your needs. NARM- which combines attachment theory and a somatic approach, EMDR, Brainspotting, Emotionally Focused Couple's and Gottman for Couples,Mindfulness and Positive Psychology. I strongly believe in a mind-body approach and lots of psychoeducation.
Let's collaborate and explore what your internal roadblocks are to feel fully alive! What do you want your experience of life to be? What is unconscious that is stopping you from understanding and connecting with yourself, others, life? We can work together to identify blocks and blindspots, gain new awareness and tools. I utilize different types of therapy depending on your needs. NARM- which combines attachment theory and a somatic approach, EMDR, Brainspotting, Emotionally Focused Couple's and Gottman for Couples,Mindfulness and Positive Psychology. I strongly believe in a mind-body approach and lots of psychoeducation.
(210) 585-2879 View (210) 585-2879
Photo of Christina A. Haskell, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Christina A. Haskell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78255
My specialty in trauma has given me training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
I am an LMFT with a specialty in trauma. Trauma has many layers and degrees, and I believe that trauma is completely subjective to the person experiencing it. I particularly enjoy working with first responders, high-conflict couples, and individuals dealing with past trauma. I am a Christian counselor; however, I recognize that everyone's faith journey is different, and I respect that. As an LMFT, I look at all issues from a systems perspective and add that to neuroscience knowledge to help normalize responses. The hope is to identify and change patterns for more effective relationships.
My specialty in trauma has given me training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
I am an LMFT with a specialty in trauma. Trauma has many layers and degrees, and I believe that trauma is completely subjective to the person experiencing it. I particularly enjoy working with first responders, high-conflict couples, and individuals dealing with past trauma. I am a Christian counselor; however, I recognize that everyone's faith journey is different, and I respect that. As an LMFT, I look at all issues from a systems perspective and add that to neuroscience knowledge to help normalize responses. The hope is to identify and change patterns for more effective relationships.
(830) 433-8161 View (830) 433-8161
Photo of Esmé Valette, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Esmé Valette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdM, EMDR, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78201
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 Regina DeBilio, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in San Antonio, TX
Regina DeBilio
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, CPTT-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78255  (Online Only)
Regina is passionate about working with couples experiencing betrayal trauma and addiction to restore or create a secure attachment. She has training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an attachment based modality that tracks the negative interaction cycle and patterns that cause distress and result in insecure attachment and disconnection. She gently guides the couple to explore themselves and their partner, learn to emotionally regulate, and cope with negative feelings in more healthy ways. Additionally, she is EMDR trained and can provide researched-based techniques for clients experiencing trauma and symptoms of PTSD.
Regina is passionate about working with couples experiencing betrayal trauma and addiction to restore or create a secure attachment. She has training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), an attachment based modality that tracks the negative interaction cycle and patterns that cause distress and result in insecure attachment and disconnection. She gently guides the couple to explore themselves and their partner, learn to emotionally regulate, and cope with negative feelings in more healthy ways. Additionally, she is EMDR trained and can provide researched-based techniques for clients experiencing trauma and symptoms of PTSD.
(972) 787-1603 View (972) 787-1603
Photo of Kinder Mind - Texas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Antonio, TX
Kinder Mind - Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78201  (Online Only)
Some of our areas of specialty include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, ACT, EFT, motivational interviewing, visualization techniques, mindfulness, life coaching, job coaching, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, self esteem, couples therapy, family therapy, and more.
Our goal is to help you reach your goals and to get you to see your life from all angles. Many of our providers take the holistic approach and like to examine the mind body connection with those they work with. At the end of the day, it’s all about making you feel better! We will give you helpful coping tools and guide you in the direction of cultivating the life, success, and relationships that you deserve.
Some of our areas of specialty include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, ACT, EFT, motivational interviewing, visualization techniques, mindfulness, life coaching, job coaching, anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, self esteem, couples therapy, family therapy, and more.
Our goal is to help you reach your goals and to get you to see your life from all angles. Many of our providers take the holistic approach and like to examine the mind body connection with those they work with. At the end of the day, it’s all about making you feel better! We will give you helpful coping tools and guide you in the direction of cultivating the life, success, and relationships that you deserve.
(857) 524-3454 View (857) 524-3454
Photo of Wanda Hudson, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Wanda Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78201
I help people turn their scars into beauty marks with the use of EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Parts & Inner Child Work, Mindfulness practices & other Attachment-Based Modalities.
You know that saying “Never judge a book by its cover”? Well, I can honestly say that the cover of my book does not match the pages! The pages in my book of life have equipped me with the experience to connect with ALL people. In my book, I’ve encountered many conflicts. I’ve been the antagonist and the protagonist and I’m just in the rising action. Because my pages are not all filled with butterflies and sunshine, I’ve had to work to find ways to help equip myself with daily coping skills. I am happy to be in a position to share my experience with others through therapy and educational opportunities.
I help people turn their scars into beauty marks with the use of EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Parts & Inner Child Work, Mindfulness practices & other Attachment-Based Modalities.
You know that saying “Never judge a book by its cover”? Well, I can honestly say that the cover of my book does not match the pages! The pages in my book of life have equipped me with the experience to connect with ALL people. In my book, I’ve encountered many conflicts. I’ve been the antagonist and the protagonist and I’m just in the rising action. Because my pages are not all filled with butterflies and sunshine, I’ve had to work to find ways to help equip myself with daily coping skills. I am happy to be in a position to share my experience with others through therapy and educational opportunities.
(972) 433-7695 View (972) 433-7695
Photo of Dr. Tamara Jade Hinojosa, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Dr. Tamara Jade Hinojosa
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78210
Sometimes the most subtle of changes can be the most profound, which is a concept at the heart of my counseling approach. While counseling often includes relief of challenging symptoms related to anxiety or feeling stuck, I also help clients navigate challenging life turning points, such as sudden career changes or unexpected medical diagnoses. For clients seeking further self-exploration, I provide a depth counseling approach in which we reflect on conscious and unconscious emotions to increase self-awareness and improve unhelpful psychological patterns.
Sometimes the most subtle of changes can be the most profound, which is a concept at the heart of my counseling approach. While counseling often includes relief of challenging symptoms related to anxiety or feeling stuck, I also help clients navigate challenging life turning points, such as sudden career changes or unexpected medical diagnoses. For clients seeking further self-exploration, I provide a depth counseling approach in which we reflect on conscious and unconscious emotions to increase self-awareness and improve unhelpful psychological patterns.
(726) 224-7427 View (726) 224-7427
Photo of Jennifer Pitman, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
Jennifer Pitman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Life has its challenges and can create difficulties for anyone. Counseling can help provide the tools needed to get through those times and resolve issues that are in the way of your goals.
Life has its challenges and can create difficulties for anyone. Counseling can help provide the tools needed to get through those times and resolve issues that are in the way of your goals.
(210) 598-5211 View (210) 598-5211
Photo of David Cortez, Licensed Professional Counselor in San Antonio, TX
David Cortez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78251  (Online Only)
Schedule your free consultation & guidance session! Whether it is addiction, codependency, trauma, depression, or anxiety, nothing should get in your way of you living your best life! What has happened before today, what is happening now, and the worries of what may happen tomorrow can be a source of suffering for everyone. Take action and move towards your goals, dreams, passions, and best you. I have nearly a decade of experience helping individuals strive for the life that they know they should have, reach milestones, find their voice, and be the catalyst for change in their own lives. Every person can be the hero of their story!
Schedule your free consultation & guidance session! Whether it is addiction, codependency, trauma, depression, or anxiety, nothing should get in your way of you living your best life! What has happened before today, what is happening now, and the worries of what may happen tomorrow can be a source of suffering for everyone. Take action and move towards your goals, dreams, passions, and best you. I have nearly a decade of experience helping individuals strive for the life that they know they should have, reach milestones, find their voice, and be the catalyst for change in their own lives. Every person can be the hero of their story!
(210) 361-0795 View (210) 361-0795

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.