Therapists in Cook County, IL
Analeise Parchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR and EFT/Tapping lend themselves to my intuitive side, and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment helps a person shift anxiety disorders as well grief treatment.
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
EMDR and EFT/Tapping lend themselves to my intuitive side, and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment helps a person shift anxiety disorders as well grief treatment.
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
Katerina Fager
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613 (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is systemic with psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and emotionally focused based elements.
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
My approach to therapy is systemic with psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral and emotionally focused based elements.
Do you feel disconnected, deal with infidelity, or poor communication? I help individuals and couples to develop some new skills and new ways to communicate and grow to create more satisfying relationships. I have completed Level 3 Clinical Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy and use Gottman Method in my work with couples. This method is designed to help teach specific tools to deepen friendship and intimacy in your relationship. I believe that although each individual is unique, everyone has the ability to change, heal and move forward. Therapy can help you to feel better and have a better relationship.
Emily Kabeshita
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
As an integrative therapist, much of my work is rooted in EFT, ACT, and IFS therapy models, and also emphasizes the mind-body connection as a basis for healing.
I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families who are seeking greater self understanding, meaning, and connection in their lives. My hope is to build a relationship with you that is personal, genuine, and centers your needs and goals; whether that is related to stressors and worries, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and more. This foundation can allow us to recognize what patterns, cycles, and blocks you might be facing, what change can look like going forward, and how to achieve that.
As an integrative therapist, much of my work is rooted in EFT, ACT, and IFS therapy models, and also emphasizes the mind-body connection as a basis for healing.
I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families who are seeking greater self understanding, meaning, and connection in their lives. My hope is to build a relationship with you that is personal, genuine, and centers your needs and goals; whether that is related to stressors and worries, depression, life transitions, relationship challenges, and more. This foundation can allow us to recognize what patterns, cycles, and blocks you might be facing, what change can look like going forward, and how to achieve that.
Kira Silverstein
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
My therapeutic approach integrates Internal Family Systems (Level 1 trained), Emotionally Focused Therapy, mindfulness, and experiential and somatic modalities.
I support individuals, couples and families as they navigate grief and loss, anxiety and depression, identity exploration, sex and intimacy, and healing from trauma, both acute and complex. As a former doula, and childcare professional, I am both passionate, and experienced in supporting folks’ as they move through (in)fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting. I am especially passionate about working with couples. I am experienced in helping couples through high conflict or every day kerfluffles, deepening sexual and emotional intimacy and desire, navigating intercultural dynamics, and communication.
My therapeutic approach integrates Internal Family Systems (Level 1 trained), Emotionally Focused Therapy, mindfulness, and experiential and somatic modalities.
I support individuals, couples and families as they navigate grief and loss, anxiety and depression, identity exploration, sex and intimacy, and healing from trauma, both acute and complex. As a former doula, and childcare professional, I am both passionate, and experienced in supporting folks’ as they move through (in)fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum and parenting. I am especially passionate about working with couples. I am experienced in helping couples through high conflict or every day kerfluffles, deepening sexual and emotional intimacy and desire, navigating intercultural dynamics, and communication.
Logan Chambers
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Palatine, IL 60067
I have completed trainings in emotionally focused therapy and sex-positive counseling.
Healing can be both incredibly painful and incredibly liberating. Handling trauma and life's challenges alone can be overwhelming, fostering feelings of isolation. I am dedicated to reminding my clients that they are not alone in their therapeutic pursuit. No one should have to heal alone. My focus is on helping those who have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, religious trauma, and identify as LGBTQ, providing them with a compassionate space to be heard. You are worthy of healing and self-compassion
I have completed trainings in emotionally focused therapy and sex-positive counseling.
Healing can be both incredibly painful and incredibly liberating. Handling trauma and life's challenges alone can be overwhelming, fostering feelings of isolation. I am dedicated to reminding my clients that they are not alone in their therapeutic pursuit. No one should have to heal alone. My focus is on helping those who have experienced trauma, sexual abuse, religious trauma, and identify as LGBTQ, providing them with a compassionate space to be heard. You are worthy of healing and self-compassion
Maggie Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I work with adults, couples, adolescents and families around issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, infertility and trauma. I have been trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT). My clients describe my approach as warm and supportive yet straightforward. My goal is to help clients better understand their past so they can make positive changes for their future. I believe in empowering my clients to live their best lives and tailor my approach to each individual or family. I truly love the work that I do and I believe that comes through to my clients in the work that we do together.
I work with adults, couples, adolescents and families around issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief/loss, infertility and trauma. I have been trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT). My clients describe my approach as warm and supportive yet straightforward. My goal is to help clients better understand their past so they can make positive changes for their future. I believe in empowering my clients to live their best lives and tailor my approach to each individual or family. I truly love the work that I do and I believe that comes through to my clients in the work that we do together.
Lisa M. Demos
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611
With over 20 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
With over 20 years of experience I have worked with a range of issues and populations. My main approach to therapy is cognitive behavioral theory (CBT) in order to process thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that contribute to distorted thinking and behavior, therefore affecting emotional well-being. The goal is to challenge and reframe so that the client achieves their personal goals, to cope with life transitions and obstacles. I also utilize Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy. I've assisted clients with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, life transitions, and various others.
Angela Fitch
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Palatine, IL 60067
My clients benefit from evidenced based therapies such as psychodynamic and emotionally focused using attachment theory and energy psychology, as well as cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies.
Your relationship with family, friends, and, of course, yourself is of the most importance. I believe there is no good reason for you to be alone with grief, insecurity, low self-esteem, shame, loneliness, fear, worry, and anxiety. Reaching-out for help could be the most courageous gift you could give yourself. I would be honored to help you through these struggles. I would like to give you the very best individual psychotherapy or couples counseling. I do not offer a "band aid" approach to therapy, meaning, the process to feeling better is one that requires a confidential, authentic, and meaningful relationship with me.
My clients benefit from evidenced based therapies such as psychodynamic and emotionally focused using attachment theory and energy psychology, as well as cognitive and dialectical behavior therapies.
Your relationship with family, friends, and, of course, yourself is of the most importance. I believe there is no good reason for you to be alone with grief, insecurity, low self-esteem, shame, loneliness, fear, worry, and anxiety. Reaching-out for help could be the most courageous gift you could give yourself. I would be honored to help you through these struggles. I would like to give you the very best individual psychotherapy or couples counseling. I do not offer a "band aid" approach to therapy, meaning, the process to feeling better is one that requires a confidential, authentic, and meaningful relationship with me.
Jessica Love Burnside
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Drawing from my training in EFT, TF-CBT, and IFS I offer a diverse range of techniques that are tailored to you.
All my clients are on a journey towards wellness and healing, wherever they may be. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families who have encountered various situations ranging from surviving family and community trauma, domestic violence, housing insecurity, and discrimination to experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, life transitions, parenting special needs, and terminally ill children. I take pleasure in assisting individuals and couples with their relationships and navigating the intricate complexities involved.
Drawing from my training in EFT, TF-CBT, and IFS I offer a diverse range of techniques that are tailored to you.
All my clients are on a journey towards wellness and healing, wherever they may be. I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families who have encountered various situations ranging from surviving family and community trauma, domestic violence, housing insecurity, and discrimination to experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, life transitions, parenting special needs, and terminally ill children. I take pleasure in assisting individuals and couples with their relationships and navigating the intricate complexities involved.
Poyesh Ganji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
I have training in family systems therapy, Emotionally focused therapy, interpersonal trauma and attachment, and I am also a psychoanalyst in training at Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
You might look for individual therapy because you experience obstacles that happen again and again; you are trying to figure out who you are and what you want in life. You might be looking for couples therapy because you feel disconnected from your partner or have difficulty communicating; you fight or have difficulty with being intimate. You might be looking for family therapy because you don’t know how to connect with your kids; there is conflict in your family and you don’t know how to resolve it. You might be a person of color, immigrant or second generation and struggle with issues mentioned above.
I have training in family systems therapy, Emotionally focused therapy, interpersonal trauma and attachment, and I am also a psychoanalyst in training at Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute.
You might look for individual therapy because you experience obstacles that happen again and again; you are trying to figure out who you are and what you want in life. You might be looking for couples therapy because you feel disconnected from your partner or have difficulty communicating; you fight or have difficulty with being intimate. You might be looking for family therapy because you don’t know how to connect with your kids; there is conflict in your family and you don’t know how to resolve it. You might be a person of color, immigrant or second generation and struggle with issues mentioned above.
Krista Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Evanston, IL 60202
I am an integrative, trauma-informed, and relational psychotherapist whose practice includes Emotionally Focused Therapy as well as tenets of Existential and Systems modalities.
I was drawn to the work of therapy because I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. I have experienced the safety offered by this type of relationship as both clinician and client, and believe that this safety creates new harmony and courage within an individual’s self and relationships. I believe that the client is the expert on their experience, and I approach each session with humble curiosity. I love my work and look forward to the honor of walking alongside you on your journey.
I am an integrative, trauma-informed, and relational psychotherapist whose practice includes Emotionally Focused Therapy as well as tenets of Existential and Systems modalities.
I was drawn to the work of therapy because I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship. I have experienced the safety offered by this type of relationship as both clinician and client, and believe that this safety creates new harmony and courage within an individual’s self and relationships. I believe that the client is the expert on their experience, and I approach each session with humble curiosity. I love my work and look forward to the honor of walking alongside you on your journey.
15 Second Videos
Kim Vander Griend
Ruth Minnick
Allison Schentrup
Sarah A. Schroeder
Julie Thomas
Ellie Paul
Linda Williams
Celina Deal
Sujai Chang
Lisa Anderson
Kristin Kallas
Lauren Baldwin
Kathryn Krause
Cassie U Korte
Kristin Moorhouse
Laurie M Rades (Hanson) LCSW
Ewelina K Beardmore
Colleen Duffy Cira
Carolyn Franklin
Lynn Barrette
Annie Avery
Ashton Crain
Marissa Gray
Jess Henry
Olivia DeLeon-Yi
Courtney Forbes
Amy Springer Robinson
Keiana L. Winters
Andrea B Bink
Anya Drew
Head First Health
Kaitlin Skog
Kheri Dunkins
Debra Berth
Kaitlin Blakeney
Sunitha Rachel Chandy
Jennifer Telschow
Pamela Larkin
Olive and Sage Wellness
Ellen S Katz
Tiffany Bernard
Annie Novotny
Wolf Pack Therapy
Nicole Meyer Klarich, LCPC & Associates
Amanda Sneed
Jeanine Moreland
Chelsea Hopson
Amy McGinnis Hogan
Associates in Corporate Psychology
Kate Ruocco
Dr. Lindsay Ellch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
For couples, I utilize EFT and the Gottman method.
After training and working at universities across the country like Stanford, Emory, and Northwestern, effective therapy requires a few essential components: a strong therapist-client relationship, a supportive yet challenging environment, and a combination of skill-based and insight-oriented work. I work from an anti-oppressive, feminist framework to create a safe environment for understanding a person within their context and cultivating opportunities for exploration, insight, and healing to occur. I provide therapy for individuals and couples.
For couples, I utilize EFT and the Gottman method.
After training and working at universities across the country like Stanford, Emory, and Northwestern, effective therapy requires a few essential components: a strong therapist-client relationship, a supportive yet challenging environment, and a combination of skill-based and insight-oriented work. I work from an anti-oppressive, feminist framework to create a safe environment for understanding a person within their context and cultivating opportunities for exploration, insight, and healing to occur. I provide therapy for individuals and couples.
Kelsey Baldwin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I work from a client-centered lens and am passionate about working with individuals and relationships navigating: anxiety, depression, acute and complex trauma, relationship conflict and disconnection, communication issues, trust repair, sex and intimacy issues, identity exploration, unaddressed family of origin attachment wounds, inner child healing, and challenges with self-esteem and self-confidence. I attend to being a culturally competent therapist that considers the contexts and identities of my clients, and foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, anti-racist, and polyamorous- and kink-friendly.
I work from a client-centered lens and am passionate about working with individuals and relationships navigating: anxiety, depression, acute and complex trauma, relationship conflict and disconnection, communication issues, trust repair, sex and intimacy issues, identity exploration, unaddressed family of origin attachment wounds, inner child healing, and challenges with self-esteem and self-confidence. I attend to being a culturally competent therapist that considers the contexts and identities of my clients, and foster a therapeutic space that is identity-affirming, sex-positive, anti-racist, and polyamorous- and kink-friendly.
Stacey Seibold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
EFT, SE, IFS, Gottman Method, CBT, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction that will help you achieve the quality of life you want.
I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are to walk alongside them as they heal & create their best life. We all at times go through periods when processing, whether towards change or healing, becomes necessary. I hope to make that process a bit more comfortable, so that you are not alone, and also to help you move through your journey with integrity and intention. Many of my clients report feeling it to be easier to approach difficult topics due to us having a friendly relationship as a foundation. I believe that foundation is in part created due to our efforts in seeing and validating their own internal strengths.
EFT, SE, IFS, Gottman Method, CBT, and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction that will help you achieve the quality of life you want.
I pride myself on meeting my clients where they are to walk alongside them as they heal & create their best life. We all at times go through periods when processing, whether towards change or healing, becomes necessary. I hope to make that process a bit more comfortable, so that you are not alone, and also to help you move through your journey with integrity and intention. Many of my clients report feeling it to be easier to approach difficult topics due to us having a friendly relationship as a foundation. I believe that foundation is in part created due to our efforts in seeing and validating their own internal strengths.
Amanda Atkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I'm EMDR and EFT trained & recently taught a graduate course at Adler University on Perinatal Mental Health.
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
I'm EMDR and EFT trained & recently taught a graduate course at Adler University on Perinatal Mental Health.
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
Kim Vander Griend
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
My practice approach: Relational, EFT, Gottman Informed, Collaborative partnership, Strengths-based approach, Empirically validated interventions, Client-Driven, Insight Oriented, Custom-tailored and Individualized, Motivational interviewing.
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult, as it's hard to reach out for help. My goal is to make therapy feel less overwhelming through a collaborative partnership where together we identify your challenges and develop healthy coping skills. My style, rooted in warmth and humor, utilizes the therapeutic relationship to explore positive change and growth. Customized feedback and a range of strategies are provided drawing from evidenced based research and years of clinical expertise. I specialize in individual and couples therapy uniquely focusing on enhancing relationships, healing from the past, and thriving individually.
My practice approach: Relational, EFT, Gottman Informed, Collaborative partnership, Strengths-based approach, Empirically validated interventions, Client-Driven, Insight Oriented, Custom-tailored and Individualized, Motivational interviewing.
The decision to seek therapy can be difficult, as it's hard to reach out for help. My goal is to make therapy feel less overwhelming through a collaborative partnership where together we identify your challenges and develop healthy coping skills. My style, rooted in warmth and humor, utilizes the therapeutic relationship to explore positive change and growth. Customized feedback and a range of strategies are provided drawing from evidenced based research and years of clinical expertise. I specialize in individual and couples therapy uniquely focusing on enhancing relationships, healing from the past, and thriving individually.
Alexandra Backis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60304 (Online Only)
I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Couples (EFT) therapies to help you better understand yourself and your relationships.
Being human is hard, especially when we find ourselves battling with the parts of ourselves that feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain. As your therapist, I will guide you in a process of welcoming all the parts of yourself, even the ones that cause distress, so that you can liberate yourself from their hold on you.
I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Couples (EFT) therapies to help you better understand yourself and your relationships.
Being human is hard, especially when we find ourselves battling with the parts of ourselves that feel stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain. As your therapist, I will guide you in a process of welcoming all the parts of yourself, even the ones that cause distress, so that you can liberate yourself from their hold on you.
Lindsey Rogers
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westchester, IL 60154
When working with couples, I utilize Gottman techniques and EFT to address issues such as communication, parenting issues, and trust.
Have you been considering therapy for a while but something has gotten in the way? Did you try therapy in the past without arriving at your desired outcome? I look forward to working with you to take that next step and achieve your goals. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, and my clients describe me as positive, warm, and directive. I focus on building rapport and making clients feel comfortable, knowing that the therapeutic relationship can be so integral in facilitating change.
When working with couples, I utilize Gottman techniques and EFT to address issues such as communication, parenting issues, and trust.
Have you been considering therapy for a while but something has gotten in the way? Did you try therapy in the past without arriving at your desired outcome? I look forward to working with you to take that next step and achieve your goals. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, and my clients describe me as positive, warm, and directive. I focus on building rapport and making clients feel comfortable, knowing that the therapeutic relationship can be so integral in facilitating change.
Susan Close
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Grief, Self-esteem and Relationship Issues. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and focused on building a strong connection with my clients. I firmly believe in using evidence-based practices and collaboration when supporting individuals and couples achieve their desired outcomes. I particularly find meaning working with couples who want to deepen their connection or heal a rupture. I will use Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy and Gottman to guide our work.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions, Grief, Self-esteem and Relationship Issues. My therapeutic style is warm, direct, and focused on building a strong connection with my clients. I firmly believe in using evidence-based practices and collaboration when supporting individuals and couples achieve their desired outcomes. I particularly find meaning working with couples who want to deepen their connection or heal a rupture. I will use Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy and Gottman to guide our work.
Sandra Angelie Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and couples in a person-centered approach and have training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. I also have a fine arts, music, dance, and psychodrama background. I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals. I have experience working with range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, extramarital affairs, relationship challenges, premarital, men's issues, and life adjustments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and couples in a person-centered approach and have training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. I also have a fine arts, music, dance, and psychodrama background. I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals. I have experience working with range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, extramarital affairs, relationship challenges, premarital, men's issues, and life adjustments.
See more therapy options for Cook County
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.