Emotionally Focused Therapists in Fort Myers, FL
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Amanda Bethurem
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified
Verified
My primary interventions for treatment come from CBT, Narrative Therapy,
EFT
, and DBT.
For some, making an appointment with a therapist is like scheduling an annual physical; for others, it can be overwhelming. Here are some reasons my clients came to see me: work life is overwhelming, toxic relationship, panic attacks, disordered relationship with food, prolonged sadness, excessive worry, feeling hopeless, irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, poor sleep, codependency, decreased sex drive, and decreased life satisfaction.
Not accepting new clients

Mary Olitzky
Counselor, LMHC
Verified
Verified
I use evidenced-based therapies; CBT,
EFT
, EMDR and art therapy to help you live your best life.
Life can be difficult! Being here you have taken the first and most important step towards healing. My expertise is in working with clients with depression/anxiety, trauma, substance abuse, and Women’s issues. In addition, I have provided counseling for clients for weight loss to help them be more successful following Bariatric surgery. I am a compassionate and caring therapist who is experienced in working with many cultures, ethnicities and ages.

Betcy Walter
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified
3 Endorsed
Verified
3 Endorsed
She is advance trained in
Emotionally Focused
Couples therapy, and has completed multiple Gottman couples trainings.
Could you use specialized therapy to address life stress management, triggers, and dissociation? Would you like to feel more in control? Betcy has intensive training in working with complex trauma, addictions, trauma resolution protocols, and relational issues. Whether you have had/have painful romantic relationships, a difficult childhood, are battling addiction, or have survived abuse, past events do not need to keep you from the life you want. Betcy uses research based treatment and works with her clients to not only help alleviate the distress, but help them feel empowered to make choices and changes for themselves.
Waitlist for new clients

David R Llewellyn
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSAT
Verified
13 Endorsed
Verified
13 Endorsed
Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, CSAT, through IITAP - International Institute for Trauma and Addiction Professionals; Trained in treating PTSD & complex trauma with EMDR and Post Induction Therapy; specialized training in treating dissociative disorders; Trained in DBT - Dialectical Behavior Therapy &
EFT
-
Emotionally Focused
Therapy for Couples.
Are you struggling with addictive or compulsive behaviors or substances? Have you tried stopping on your own? Do depression, anxiety or panic take you over? Have you been physically or sexually abused? Do you self-harm? Do you have puzzling memory gaps? Are your relationships suffering? Does your partner or someone you love have a problem? Ready for change? I can help. In a supportive, confidential, non-judgmental environment, using effective research-based methods, I help you break free of addictions, trauma, and/or unhealthy behaviors, and learn how to build a healthy and rewarding life and relationships in recovery.

Dr. Carin Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, MSW, LCSW
Verified
5 Endorsed
Verified
5 Endorsed
I am also trained in
EFT
, a highly effective technique used in conjunction with talk therapy.
Are you stressed, unhappy, or stuck? Are you wanting change in your life but unsure how to do this? Within a safe space, I will guide you to let go of the issues holding you back, shift your perspective, move forward and create a life of joy and fulfillment. My specialties include coping skills, life transitions, relationship difficulties, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and spiritual growth/LOA. Through a confidential HIPPA-compliant format I offer video-therapy for easy, comfortable access from anywhere and at anytime. Contact me for a free phone consultation and more information.

Gabrielle Pfeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
With a combination of my down-to-earth approach, Level 1 Gottman Method training, &
Emotionally Focused
Therapy approach, we'll dive in to create the opportunity to fall in love again, take on the world together, and have fun doing it.
I often notice that couples forget that together, they can create a life that they both truly love. My job is to remind you of that and help create a roadmap of how to get there. So often, we settle into a place of disconnection, resentment, frustration, or disdain. Maybe trust has been broken, or you feel more like strangers then best friends. The relationship between partners can add the most incredible richness, excitement and beauty to our worlds, but relationships are always changing and growing- either growing apart or growing together. In couples therapy we'll explore how to get back to growing hand in hand.

Monique Dana Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHC1
Verified
Verified
Are you feeling lost, alone or like you’re standing on shaky ground? We all need a firm foundation to stand on. There are times in our lives that are unpredictable. Life changes, emotional stressors, traumatic events, grief, and unstable relationships can leave us feeling empty, alone, lost or even broken. I help my clients every day by bringing healing, clarity, and hope through these types of challenges. Together we will work to find your new normal and get you back on a solid and strong foundation. I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to reconnect and find peace in their relationships.

Sunshine Mental Health Services of SWFL
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
I assist clients of all ages that may need additional support as they progress through major life transitions such as new and changing relationships, loss of a loved one, education and career changes, substance use, family conflict, navigating legal concerns, and more. Together, we’ll create goals to work towards, while measuring progress on a monthly basis, all in the safety of a confidential, safe zone free of judgement and bias.

Lynn Rosen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
We all have within us a resilience to confront and handle even the most challenging of issues. But we do not have to do it alone. A willingness to share our deepest thoughts and emotions in a safe and caring environment can empower you to figure out how you are feeling , how to move forward, reclaim your purpose and passion. I would like to participate in that process with you. I am experienced in relationship and self-counseling, using complementary approaches tto best facilitate positive change. I'm looking forward to being your partner in this process. Go to my website for more info

Susan Puccio,MA, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified
Verified
Perhaps your life isn't headed in the direction you had hoped for. Life can get difficult at times and counseling can truly make the difference for you. Seeking help is both a simple and courageous act that supports one's need for expression. There are times that we need to connect with someone; to feel heard, to feel respected and to be validated. The purpose of psychotherapy is to help you improve your life as you navigate the process of change so that life can be filled with greater possibilities for fulfillment and peace.

Madison Anne Piorkowski
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, CAC, CAMS-1
Verified
Verified
I believe everyone is entitled to living a fulfilling life. That includes truly understanding your journey - where you came from, where you are, and where you want to be. Whether you are struggling individually, with a partner(s) or in a family unit, there is something here for everyone, no matter the primary concern.

David Essel Enterprises, Inc.
MS, OM
Life is Stressful. Change is Here! For 40 years, I have helped clients from all over the world, to learn how to deal with the stress of life: grief recovery, relationships, self esteem, permanent alcohol/ addiction recovery, emotional confusion, finances, relationships, personal identity, career choices, attitude, the breaking of family cycles, codependency and more. "One of the top Life Counselors/Life Coaches in the USA. " Lifetime Television. "The top relationship counselor." Marriage.com Join us at Davidessel.com. Work/Life balance, Emotional Regulation, Permanent Alcohol Recovery, Divorce prevention, David is with you!

Michael James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
One afternoon I told my wife that after another tour, I would be leaving the U.S. Coast Guard for a very different career. Serving my country and the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard is one of the greatest honors and privileges of my life. After serving for nine years I knew that directly assisting and serving people is the life-giving work of my heart. I became a Social Worker and therapist because it is my greatest joy and pleasure to support you as you unify all your strengths and gifts to release your Faith, Hope, and Love into society.

Zoe Finlay
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified
Verified
Have you experienced a stressful event and as a result are finding it difficult to function in your day-to-day activities? Are you having difficulty concentrating, sleeping, and/or forming healthy relationships? As a trauma-informed counselor, I have successfully treated people by helping them to identify the source of their struggles; thereby empowering them to advance in life. I am a registered mental health counseling intern with experience treating children, teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma.

Adrienne K Crim
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MSc, RMHCI
Verified
Verified
Hello! I am Adrienne. I completed my Master of Science in Professional Counseling in 2018. As a therapist, longtime professional “helper” for over 15 years, and avid traveler, I have seen how we are all connected through the shared human experiences of joy, pain, gratitude, suffering, sadness, love, and hope. I also know that sometimes our journey gets hard, and our burden becomes too overwhelming to carry on our own. Our connectedness makes it possible for us to reach out for a trusted person to help us carry our burden until we are strong enough again to go on our way. That is where I come in.

Mandala Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS
Verified
Verified
I have always wanted to help people. I’ve been able to do that in a variety of ways over the years. Working in domestic violence shelters, agencies that assist child sexual abuse survivors, in-home intensive substance abuse counseling...I’m privileged to have been able to help so many. It truly makes me happy. Now, I have my own practice after all of these years and I couldn’t be more excited to continue helping people; just in a much more enjoyable and comfortable setting. The therapists that work at Mandala are personally hired by me, and they are all wonderful and caring! You’re in great hands!

Danielle Jediny-Racies, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
Verified
Hello. My name is Danielle Jediny-Racies. I am a practicing licensed marriage and family therapist with over 15 years of experience providing care for people who live in Oregon, California, Florida, and Georgia. My therapeutic approach is informed by system-centered, relational, somatic, and trauma-informed methods of care. I am steady, reflective, and compassionate.

Colleen C Hentz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified
Verified
Are you feeling overwhelmed with life, and unsure what path you want to be on? Life can get so far from your hopes, dreams and aspirations. I think we all start out with our idea of what life will be like, but frequently when we look up, we are nowhere near where we set out to be. I am here to provide a safe, judgement free space for you to express your frustrations, fears, feelings, hopes, dreams, and goals. I truly believe that we never stop growing and learning, and I hope to be one of the teachers along your journey.

Wise Counseling, Inc
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Verified
Verified
Do you feel as if something is keeping you from living your ideal life? Whether you're battling anxiety, unfulfilling relationships, or the lasting effects of trauma, our staff of qualified counselors can offer you the tools to take back control of your life. We will help you rediscover your true self, move past obstacles, and start living your best life today. There is always hope when you know where to look for solutions. We see people as people - and problems as problems. You are not defined by your current struggles. We use evidence-based treatments and promote a sense of empowerment.

LeighAnn Wong
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
Helping others has always been a big part of my life. As a licensed clinical psychologist my goal is facilitating the growth of my clients through accurate assessment and therapeutic care of their personal concerns. This may include providing guidance, support, and extensive understanding to those individuals who others depend on. Thus far, my inner passion and natural ability to connect with others combined with my scientist-practitioner experience has allowed me to build solid therapeutic relationships with my clients. Together we foster open dialogue and create a supportive and secure healing environment.
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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.