Emotionally Focused Therapists in Austell, GA

Photo of Whitney Rudd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Whitney Rudd
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30168  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Whitney Rudd and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors. I earned my degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Richmont Graduate University and have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings. I use the following approaches to therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, and Emotionally Focused Therapy interventions.
Hi, my name is Whitney Rudd and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors. I earned my degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Richmont Graduate University and have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings. I use the following approaches to therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered, and Emotionally Focused Therapy interventions.
(912) 557-9974 View (912) 557-9974
Photo of Annette Hughes - Social Concepts Therapeutic Services LLC, LCSW, CAMS II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Social Concepts Therapeutic Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMS II
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30106
At Social Concepts Therapeutic Services, Mrs. Annette Hughes, LCSW, champions wellness for youth, individuals, couples, and families. Her mission is to support personal growth toward THE moment of self-awareness. All therapeutic sessions are led with compassion in a safe and supportive environment.
At Social Concepts Therapeutic Services, Mrs. Annette Hughes, LCSW, champions wellness for youth, individuals, couples, and families. Her mission is to support personal growth toward THE moment of self-awareness. All therapeutic sessions are led with compassion in a safe and supportive environment.
(678) 730-4612 x30106 View (678) 730-4612 x30106
Photo of Iolanda L Da Luz, Counselor
Iolanda L Da Luz
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austell, GA 30168  (Online Only)
Are you in need of someone to listen to? A place where you can speak out loud your pain without feeling judged, belittled or alone? Do you find yourself at times asking why me or what is wrong with me? Do you find yourself feeling confused, angry, sad, anxious, stuck. Do you get triggered and react in a manner in where you wished you didn't? Do you find yourself alone again with nobody to share your life with? Do you isolate yourself when things don't go right? Do you have past traumas and haven't yet learned how it affects you today? Can't sleep at night? Do you feel you are going out of your mind because your mind does not shut up
Are you in need of someone to listen to? A place where you can speak out loud your pain without feeling judged, belittled or alone? Do you find yourself at times asking why me or what is wrong with me? Do you find yourself feeling confused, angry, sad, anxious, stuck. Do you get triggered and react in a manner in where you wished you didn't? Do you find yourself alone again with nobody to share your life with? Do you isolate yourself when things don't go right? Do you have past traumas and haven't yet learned how it affects you today? Can't sleep at night? Do you feel you are going out of your mind because your mind does not shut up
(678) 619-0726 View (678) 619-0726
Photo of Meisha Daley, LCSW, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meisha Daley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30168  (Online Only)
Are you feeling depressed , hopeless ,helpless . Are ready to overcome that “stuck feeling", Are you experiencing crying spells, anxiety , stress, loss of appetite, poor sleep, unable to focus and concentrate . Lets work on this together to get too the root of the problem .
Are you feeling depressed , hopeless ,helpless . Are ready to overcome that “stuck feeling", Are you experiencing crying spells, anxiety , stress, loss of appetite, poor sleep, unable to focus and concentrate . Lets work on this together to get too the root of the problem .
(404) 220-8140 x8 View (404) 220-8140 x8
Photo of Adrienne Journey, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, BA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrienne Journey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, BA
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30168  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to enjoy life because of depression and anxiety? Does it feel like, no matter how hard you try, you can't seem to move forward in life? Are you struggling to reach your life goals because of past trauma and hurt? Do you have a hard time putting words to your feelings? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you might need help? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions then, just by being here, you have made the right choice and have already started on your path to healing.
Are you struggling to enjoy life because of depression and anxiety? Does it feel like, no matter how hard you try, you can't seem to move forward in life? Are you struggling to reach your life goals because of past trauma and hurt? Do you have a hard time putting words to your feelings? Have you tried to solve the problems in your life on your own and realized you might need help? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions then, just by being here, you have made the right choice and have already started on your path to healing.
(678) 921-3182 View (678) 921-3182
Photo of Kelli Cortes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelli Cortes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austell, GA 30106  (Online Only)
As a trauma-focused eclectic therapist, I utilize a broad range of therapeutic approaches in order to best meet the needs of my clients. I specialize in trauma recovery. The majority of my clients struggle with the effects of PTSD, C-PTSD, and other anxiety-based disorders. My goal is to empower YOU to find solutions to your concerns. YOU will identify your needs and therapeutic goals. YOU are the expert in your life!
As a trauma-focused eclectic therapist, I utilize a broad range of therapeutic approaches in order to best meet the needs of my clients. I specialize in trauma recovery. The majority of my clients struggle with the effects of PTSD, C-PTSD, and other anxiety-based disorders. My goal is to empower YOU to find solutions to your concerns. YOU will identify your needs and therapeutic goals. YOU are the expert in your life!
(678) 726-1217 View (678) 726-1217
Photo of Sheena Kelly, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sheena Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30106
Sheena Kelly is a licensed professional counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Sheena has worked in substance abuse facilities, Community Agencies, and Adoption agencies to develop an overall perspective on individual experiences. Sheena has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which gives her more tools to aid in the client's journey.
Sheena Kelly is a licensed professional counselor with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Sheena has worked in substance abuse facilities, Community Agencies, and Adoption agencies to develop an overall perspective on individual experiences. Sheena has advanced training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which gives her more tools to aid in the client's journey.
(470) 444-4711 View (470) 444-4711
Photo of Dadron Deon Harris, Dr, LPC, MAC, CAMS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dadron Deon Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, Dr, LPC, MAC, CAMS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austell, GA 30106
Greetings. I am a Counselor/ Therapist that focuses on meeting your needs. We are here for you as our country is undergoing a major crisis. We are offering telemental health video sessions for you. My role as a Licensed Counselor is to provide confidential behavioral health services to adults, children and adolescents in an outpatient or community setting. I focus on identifying core issues. Duties will include, but not limited to individual counseling, group therapy, family counseling and contact within the community in terms of locating employment, self help & housing.
Greetings. I am a Counselor/ Therapist that focuses on meeting your needs. We are here for you as our country is undergoing a major crisis. We are offering telemental health video sessions for you. My role as a Licensed Counselor is to provide confidential behavioral health services to adults, children and adolescents in an outpatient or community setting. I focus on identifying core issues. Duties will include, but not limited to individual counseling, group therapy, family counseling and contact within the community in terms of locating employment, self help & housing.
(404) 495-5341 View (404) 495-5341
Photo of Diamesha Walton, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diamesha Walton
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Austell, GA 30168  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 15 years of experience, I have built a profound foundation in the field of mental health and emotional well-being. Throughout my career, I have successfully guided individuals from various walks of life towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and personal growth. My passion for helping others has led me to specialize in areas such as anxiety management, trauma recovery, relationship counseling, and life transitions. What sets me apart is not only my extensive therapeutic expertise but also my commitment to mentoring and supervising emerging counselors.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 15 years of experience, I have built a profound foundation in the field of mental health and emotional well-being. Throughout my career, I have successfully guided individuals from various walks of life towards greater self-awareness, resilience, and personal growth. My passion for helping others has led me to specialize in areas such as anxiety management, trauma recovery, relationship counseling, and life transitions. What sets me apart is not only my extensive therapeutic expertise but also my commitment to mentoring and supervising emerging counselors.
(470) 802-3480 View (470) 802-3480

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jena A. Irvin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jena A. Irvin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
I've spent the past 7 years focusing on training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) in work with both individuals & couples.
I believe that you are the expert of your life! My job is to be curious and to help you gain more understanding of yourself. A good therapist doesn't claim to have all the answers for why you are the way you are although I may have some ideas that I will share. When it comes to getting answers & more understanding, we will form hypotheses together and you will come to your own conclusions. I facilitate and guide that process! I'm here to share my knowledge to help you make decisions that are authentic, rational, and well-explored.
I've spent the past 7 years focusing on training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) in work with both individuals & couples.
I believe that you are the expert of your life! My job is to be curious and to help you gain more understanding of yourself. A good therapist doesn't claim to have all the answers for why you are the way you are although I may have some ideas that I will share. When it comes to getting answers & more understanding, we will form hypotheses together and you will come to your own conclusions. I facilitate and guide that process! I'm here to share my knowledge to help you make decisions that are authentic, rational, and well-explored.
(678) 971-0585 View (678) 971-0585
Photo of Caroline Hamner, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caroline Hamner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
My therapeutic approach incorporates components of experiential therapy, attachment theory, narrative therapy, & emotional focused therapy ( EFT). I understand that everyone engages with therapy uniquely, which is why I offer a range of methods, including art therapy. These modalities tap into the power of creativity, providing you with alternative ways to process feelings and communicate your inner world. My skill set includes working with challenges such as life changes, depression, anxiety, setting healthy boundaries, navigating ADHD, OCD, relationship issues, bettering communication, issues within a family, & personal growth.
My therapeutic approach incorporates components of experiential therapy, attachment theory, narrative therapy, & emotional focused therapy ( EFT). I understand that everyone engages with therapy uniquely, which is why I offer a range of methods, including art therapy. These modalities tap into the power of creativity, providing you with alternative ways to process feelings and communicate your inner world. My skill set includes working with challenges such as life changes, depression, anxiety, setting healthy boundaries, navigating ADHD, OCD, relationship issues, bettering communication, issues within a family, & personal growth.
(404) 882-7830 x207 View (404) 882-7830 x207
Photo of Cathy Mairin (Formerly Marakovits), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Mairin (Formerly Marakovits)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
My approach to couples therapy is integrated, having trained in Imago therapy, the Gottman method, Emotionally Focused Couples therapy, Ellyn Bader's Developmental Model, amongst others.
I’ve had the privilege of assisting numerous couples find their way back to connected fulfilling relationships. Whether you are seeking to heal from the trauma of infidelity, eliminate painful patterns of communication, gain greater understanding of one another, be a better team, or light the spark between you again, I’d welcome the opportunity to provide a path to healing and reconnection. I will hold the hope for you as you learn new tools and understanding until you can hold the torch yourselves. I also work with individuals seeking to improve their mental health, relationships, overall sense of wellbeing, and meaning in life.
My approach to couples therapy is integrated, having trained in Imago therapy, the Gottman method, Emotionally Focused Couples therapy, Ellyn Bader's Developmental Model, amongst others.
I’ve had the privilege of assisting numerous couples find their way back to connected fulfilling relationships. Whether you are seeking to heal from the trauma of infidelity, eliminate painful patterns of communication, gain greater understanding of one another, be a better team, or light the spark between you again, I’d welcome the opportunity to provide a path to healing and reconnection. I will hold the hope for you as you learn new tools and understanding until you can hold the torch yourselves. I also work with individuals seeking to improve their mental health, relationships, overall sense of wellbeing, and meaning in life.
(404) 352-0047 View (404) 352-0047
Photo of Travis Ramsey, MA, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Travis Ramsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smyrna, GA 30080
Have you lost all trust with your partner? Are you at a loss as how to stop your child's destructive behaviors? Or maybe your bad habits are pulling you under. Everyone experiences self-defeating behaviors and relationship problems. But it doesn't have to stay this way. In therapy, things change. I have guided many through their hurts and fears, loneliness and conflicts, anxiety and depression. As an individual, couple, or family, I will sit with you, creating a safe space for you to be true to you, and help you discover the tools to accomplish your goals.
Have you lost all trust with your partner? Are you at a loss as how to stop your child's destructive behaviors? Or maybe your bad habits are pulling you under. Everyone experiences self-defeating behaviors and relationship problems. But it doesn't have to stay this way. In therapy, things change. I have guided many through their hurts and fears, loneliness and conflicts, anxiety and depression. As an individual, couple, or family, I will sit with you, creating a safe space for you to be true to you, and help you discover the tools to accomplish your goals.
(678) 882-7832 View (678) 882-7832
Photo of Shama Panjwani, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shama Panjwani
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30060  (Online Only)
I use CBT, DBT, narrative, EFT, Brainspotting, mindfulness, and integrative/wellness approaches.
Do you want to live a balanced life and feel happy? Perhaps you are constantly facing obstacles and challenges in your life that are impacting your holistic wellness and authentic relationships. The anxiety and depression can be detrimental. I can help you, guide you, and support you as you process various issues related to your cultural/sexual identity, anxiety related to transitions and relationships, grief, trauma, depression, etc. I can help you gain a deeper insight and self-awareness that will allow you to get closer to your goals, make better decisions, and have a better quality of life in a holistic manner using mindfulness.
I use CBT, DBT, narrative, EFT, Brainspotting, mindfulness, and integrative/wellness approaches.
Do you want to live a balanced life and feel happy? Perhaps you are constantly facing obstacles and challenges in your life that are impacting your holistic wellness and authentic relationships. The anxiety and depression can be detrimental. I can help you, guide you, and support you as you process various issues related to your cultural/sexual identity, anxiety related to transitions and relationships, grief, trauma, depression, etc. I can help you gain a deeper insight and self-awareness that will allow you to get closer to your goals, make better decisions, and have a better quality of life in a holistic manner using mindfulness.
(678) 922-5080 View (678) 922-5080
Photo of Robyn Starks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robyn Starks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080
Robyn utilizes relational, collaborative, strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based, art and play therapy techniques, solutions-focused (SFT), and emotionally-focused ( EFT) approaches to therapy.
Robyn Starks is a Resident in Counseling (RIC) who has more than 7 years of experience working with children, adults, individuals, and couples who are seeking help in coping with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, communication, coping skills and parenting issues. Her passion includes learning alongside couples while helping them build and maintain fulfilling relationships through self-awareness and continued growth. Robyn completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Kennesaw State University and received his Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling from Richmont Graduate University.
Robyn utilizes relational, collaborative, strengths-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), mindfulness-based, art and play therapy techniques, solutions-focused (SFT), and emotionally-focused ( EFT) approaches to therapy.
Robyn Starks is a Resident in Counseling (RIC) who has more than 7 years of experience working with children, adults, individuals, and couples who are seeking help in coping with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transitions, communication, coping skills and parenting issues. Her passion includes learning alongside couples while helping them build and maintain fulfilling relationships through self-awareness and continued growth. Robyn completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Kennesaw State University and received his Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling from Richmont Graduate University.
(678) 252-6537 View (678) 252-6537
Photo of Jacob Hicks, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacob Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and I am ready to begin helping you and your partner gain new insight into the unhelpful patterns that you’ve fallen into and how to best meet your needs.
You feel disconnected and alone. Even in your most trusted relationship with your partner or spouse, you feel like there’s a separation between the two of you. You keep having the same fights or discussions over and over again, repeating the same pattern. Communicating with your partner doesn’t seem to be working. Everything you say seems to be the wrong thing. You feel hurt, angry, and scared that the pain and loneliness that you’re going through will never get better. You want to feel trust and security in your relationship. You want more than anything to feel connected again
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and I am ready to begin helping you and your partner gain new insight into the unhelpful patterns that you’ve fallen into and how to best meet your needs.
You feel disconnected and alone. Even in your most trusted relationship with your partner or spouse, you feel like there’s a separation between the two of you. You keep having the same fights or discussions over and over again, repeating the same pattern. Communicating with your partner doesn’t seem to be working. Everything you say seems to be the wrong thing. You feel hurt, angry, and scared that the pain and loneliness that you’re going through will never get better. You want to feel trust and security in your relationship. You want more than anything to feel connected again
(678) 326-4739 View (678) 326-4739
Photo of Seryna Muhammad Wilkinson - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Marietta, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Marietta
Counselor
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30008
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of April Bailye - April Bailye Counseling (ABC) , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April Bailye Counseling (ABC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064  (Online Only)
For the courageous individual seeking individual therapy - I have extensive training in CBT, DBT, EFT, and REBT.
Accepting new clients! If you're looking for a therapist that is going to listen to understand while also helping you figure out causes and solutions to your struggles, then you have found the right therapist. If you're married or in a relationship that once was good and now is filled with hurt, fighting, misunderstanding, or loneliness, I know how to help. There is hope for your relationship, and I will give you the tools you need to build and maintain a happy and healthy relationship. If you are a person that is looking for individual therapy for yourself, I have experience and tools to help you in your journey, as well.
For the courageous individual seeking individual therapy - I have extensive training in CBT, DBT, EFT, and REBT.
Accepting new clients! If you're looking for a therapist that is going to listen to understand while also helping you figure out causes and solutions to your struggles, then you have found the right therapist. If you're married or in a relationship that once was good and now is filled with hurt, fighting, misunderstanding, or loneliness, I know how to help. There is hope for your relationship, and I will give you the tools you need to build and maintain a happy and healthy relationship. If you are a person that is looking for individual therapy for yourself, I have experience and tools to help you in your journey, as well.
(470) 837-2262 View (470) 837-2262
Photo of Adrienne Marshall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrienne Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mableton, GA 30126
My chosen theoretical approaches are PREPARE/ENRICH, EFT, EMDR, Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy, and CBT.
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
My chosen theoretical approaches are PREPARE/ENRICH, EFT, EMDR, Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy, and CBT.
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
(770) 637-0826 View (770) 637-0826
Photo of Sade Bowman, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sade Bowman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30339  (Online Only)
CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Emotionally Focused Therapy is implemented to assist client's with developing a healthy mind and self-esteem.
Do you find yourself worried about the future because it seems like life is falling apart? You try talking to friends and family about your anxiety and depression, but no one understands you. Maybe, you are finding yourself unable to regulate your emotions because of all the pain pit up inside of you? Well, I am here to help you work through those complex emotions and thoughts from your traumatic past. Together, let's form a therapeutic alliance so that you can develop the skills and techniques to cope with your circumstances and rise above the trauma you have experienced. Please book a consultation to start your healing journey.
CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused, and Emotionally Focused Therapy is implemented to assist client's with developing a healthy mind and self-esteem.
Do you find yourself worried about the future because it seems like life is falling apart? You try talking to friends and family about your anxiety and depression, but no one understands you. Maybe, you are finding yourself unable to regulate your emotions because of all the pain pit up inside of you? Well, I am here to help you work through those complex emotions and thoughts from your traumatic past. Together, let's form a therapeutic alliance so that you can develop the skills and techniques to cope with your circumstances and rise above the trauma you have experienced. Please book a consultation to start your healing journey.
(470) 828-2668 View (470) 828-2668
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.