Emotionally Focused Therapists in Somerville, MA

Photo of Ada Gunning, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerville, MA
Ada Gunning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02145
With couples, I use emotionally-focused therapy (EFT), which focuses on core early emotions and fears and how they influence the daily cycle.
I take a comprehensive approach to helping my clients feel better. For many people, therapy is episodic. We arrive at therapy when we need to overcome a momentary setback, learn or re-learn how to manage negative feelings, work through paralyzing indecision, manage grief, and clarify our goals, among other reasons. I believe in supporting clients in finding their own inner guide, coping skills, community resources, and social supports so that their path to feeling better is in their own hands. I particularly enjoy helping couples better understand and communicate around feelings and behaviors.
With couples, I use emotionally-focused therapy (EFT), which focuses on core early emotions and fears and how they influence the daily cycle.
I take a comprehensive approach to helping my clients feel better. For many people, therapy is episodic. We arrive at therapy when we need to overcome a momentary setback, learn or re-learn how to manage negative feelings, work through paralyzing indecision, manage grief, and clarify our goals, among other reasons. I believe in supporting clients in finding their own inner guide, coping skills, community resources, and social supports so that their path to feeling better is in their own hands. I particularly enjoy helping couples better understand and communicate around feelings and behaviors.
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Photo of Valerie L. Kirr, Counselor in Somerville, MA
Valerie L. Kirr
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MACCS
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping individuals who seek Balance, yet struggle to find the right combination. With 30+ years of experience, I have knowledge and compassion for both the biological and psychosocial aspects of mental health. Support, exploration, new skills and making connections are the essentials for moving forward to a more balanced life. During treatment an eclectic approach will be used to suit your needs as an individual. Modalities may include: CBT, Interpersonal, Psychodynamic, MBCT, and EFT. Opportunities to explore creative outlets, Yoga/Movement, and the Arts, may benefit to enhance the therapeutic healing process.
I enjoy helping individuals who seek Balance, yet struggle to find the right combination. With 30+ years of experience, I have knowledge and compassion for both the biological and psychosocial aspects of mental health. Support, exploration, new skills and making connections are the essentials for moving forward to a more balanced life. During treatment an eclectic approach will be used to suit your needs as an individual. Modalities may include: CBT, Interpersonal, Psychodynamic, MBCT, and EFT. Opportunities to explore creative outlets, Yoga/Movement, and the Arts, may benefit to enhance the therapeutic healing process.
(857) 239-0055 View (857) 239-0055
Photo of Matt Richardson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Somerville, MA
Matt Richardson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144
Dr. Richardson’s primary areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, problems in personal and romantic relationships, disordered eating, and body image issues. He is particularly interested in working with gay and bisexual men. In therapy, Dr. Richardson uses an integrative therapeutic style, combining interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral and emotionally-focused therapies. Dr. Richardson approaches his work with clients experiencing body image and eating concerns from an intuitive eating, anti-diet, and Health At Every Size (HAES) framework.
Dr. Richardson’s primary areas of interest include: Depression, anxiety, problems in personal and romantic relationships, disordered eating, and body image issues. He is particularly interested in working with gay and bisexual men. In therapy, Dr. Richardson uses an integrative therapeutic style, combining interpersonal, cognitive-behavioral and emotionally-focused therapies. Dr. Richardson approaches his work with clients experiencing body image and eating concerns from an intuitive eating, anti-diet, and Health At Every Size (HAES) framework.
(617) 202-3863 View (617) 202-3863
Photo of Meredith Maroney, Psychologist in Somerville, MA
Meredith Maroney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
My approach to counseling informed by relational and emotionally focused lenses.
I enjoy working collaboratively with young adults and adolescents navigating identity exploration and development, relationship challenges, and transitions. Many of my clients are LGBTQ+, Autistic, college students, or those who may be wondering about the intersection of queerness and neurodivergence. I strive to meet clients where they are at and work collaboratively to identify needs and goals.
My approach to counseling informed by relational and emotionally focused lenses.
I enjoy working collaboratively with young adults and adolescents navigating identity exploration and development, relationship challenges, and transitions. Many of my clients are LGBTQ+, Autistic, college students, or those who may be wondering about the intersection of queerness and neurodivergence. I strive to meet clients where they are at and work collaboratively to identify needs and goals.
(339) 231-8997 View (339) 231-8997
Photo of Mandy Datro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerville, MA
Mandy Datro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is integrative and based on your individual needs; drawing from a variety of modalities including Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Structural Family Therapy.
I have close to 15 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, across a variety of cultures; receiving my training and practicing in both Australia and the US. I work with adults, couples and families to achieve their goals and specialize in a range of clinical presentations including trauma, relationship and family of origin issues, men’s mental health and therapy for helping professionals, among others.
My approach to therapy is integrative and based on your individual needs; drawing from a variety of modalities including Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Structural Family Therapy.
I have close to 15 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, across a variety of cultures; receiving my training and practicing in both Australia and the US. I work with adults, couples and families to achieve their goals and specialize in a range of clinical presentations including trauma, relationship and family of origin issues, men’s mental health and therapy for helping professionals, among others.
(617) 231-9799 View (617) 231-9799
Photo of Whitney Brooks, Counselor in Somerville, MA
Whitney Brooks
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients! Do you often find yourself feeling sad or anxious? Do you worry about yourself or your child? Do you wish you could be your best self? With over fifteen years of clinical experience, my style is fluid and catered to best suit the concerns and experience of my clients. I have worked with clients of all ages in the context of individual, couples, and family therapy. I offer a goal-oriented and strength-based approach and incorporate CBT, ACT, art/narrative therapy, interpersonal therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy depending on needs and preferences of each client.
I am currently accepting new clients! Do you often find yourself feeling sad or anxious? Do you worry about yourself or your child? Do you wish you could be your best self? With over fifteen years of clinical experience, my style is fluid and catered to best suit the concerns and experience of my clients. I have worked with clients of all ages in the context of individual, couples, and family therapy. I offer a goal-oriented and strength-based approach and incorporate CBT, ACT, art/narrative therapy, interpersonal therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy depending on needs and preferences of each client.
(617) 863-9572 View (617) 863-9572
Photo of Kimberly Barnard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerville, MA
Kimberly Barnard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02144
As a clinician, my hope is to help clients by empowering and guiding them as they face unique challenges. I strive to provide a safe, accepting space to share and identify those things in life that often make us feel stuck. I truly believe in the power of human connection and that anyone can make meaningful change when provided with the support and tools to do so. In this life, there is struggle and there is joy, often at the same time. Honoring both is an important part of understanding ourselves and how we can create a pathway forward. It is amazing to witness clients as they grow and evolve during the therapeutic process.
As a clinician, my hope is to help clients by empowering and guiding them as they face unique challenges. I strive to provide a safe, accepting space to share and identify those things in life that often make us feel stuck. I truly believe in the power of human connection and that anyone can make meaningful change when provided with the support and tools to do so. In this life, there is struggle and there is joy, often at the same time. Honoring both is an important part of understanding ourselves and how we can create a pathway forward. It is amazing to witness clients as they grow and evolve during the therapeutic process.
(617) 861-8453 View (617) 861-8453
Photo of Ally Kuriloff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerville, MA
Ally Kuriloff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02145  (Online Only)
I focus on helping clients develop meaningful, satisfying lives and relationships. While I tailor treatment to individual needs, my approach is generally collaborative, trauma informed, relational, and committed to social justice. I draw from a range of modalities and theories and bring experience with community mental health, family and couples/relationship therapy, and psychodynamic work.
I focus on helping clients develop meaningful, satisfying lives and relationships. While I tailor treatment to individual needs, my approach is generally collaborative, trauma informed, relational, and committed to social justice. I draw from a range of modalities and theories and bring experience with community mental health, family and couples/relationship therapy, and psychodynamic work.
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Photo of Jane Axelrod, Counselor in Somerville, MA
Jane Axelrod
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, BCC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144
In his "Sermon on Courage" a great historical figure once said, "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter" (King, 1963). Deciding to seek out therapy may be one of the most difficult choices a person makes in a lifetime. It is an act of courage, and those individuals seeking help with their lives when they feel most vulnerable deserve respect and admiration. My goal is to provide you with warmth, attunement, empathy, and years of professional experience as we talk about the things in your life that really matter. Together we work and collaborate in a deeply genuine, person-to-person connection.
In his "Sermon on Courage" a great historical figure once said, "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter" (King, 1963). Deciding to seek out therapy may be one of the most difficult choices a person makes in a lifetime. It is an act of courage, and those individuals seeking help with their lives when they feel most vulnerable deserve respect and admiration. My goal is to provide you with warmth, attunement, empathy, and years of professional experience as we talk about the things in your life that really matter. Together we work and collaborate in a deeply genuine, person-to-person connection.
(978) 767-9048 View (978) 767-9048
Photo of Piero Goytizolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerville, MA
Piero Goytizolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
Hello/hola! My name is Piero and I am a bilingual couples therapist who was born in Peru, identifies as a gay man, and loves pizza. I also enjoy meeting with individuals and families, and it would be an honor to see how I can help you. I believe the most important thing in the therapeutic relationship is our connection, and that you enjoy meeting with me. You want a therapist who you look forward to seeing and who you feel comfortable and safe with, who is also willing to challenge you and help you grow. I like to be warm and friendly as well as direct and blunt, use humor when appropriate, and am comfortable talking about anything.
Hello/hola! My name is Piero and I am a bilingual couples therapist who was born in Peru, identifies as a gay man, and loves pizza. I also enjoy meeting with individuals and families, and it would be an honor to see how I can help you. I believe the most important thing in the therapeutic relationship is our connection, and that you enjoy meeting with me. You want a therapist who you look forward to seeing and who you feel comfortable and safe with, who is also willing to challenge you and help you grow. I like to be warm and friendly as well as direct and blunt, use humor when appropriate, and am comfortable talking about anything.
(617) 996-8904 View (617) 996-8904
Photo of Kelly Christian, Counselor in Somerville, MA
Kelly Christian
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02145  (Online Only)
I am continually amazed by the authentic human-to-human interaction that therapy embodies. I do not believe that I know more than anyone else; rather I believe therapy is a joint effort. I will help guide the process, but together we will create a therapeutic process that fits your unique needs and strengths. It is an empowering feeling to be a part of your own path of changing.
I am continually amazed by the authentic human-to-human interaction that therapy embodies. I do not believe that I know more than anyone else; rather I believe therapy is a joint effort. I will help guide the process, but together we will create a therapeutic process that fits your unique needs and strengths. It is an empowering feeling to be a part of your own path of changing.
(617) 546-4869 View (617) 546-4869
Photo of Natasha Monique Bolton - Pierre, Counselor in Somerville, MA
Natasha Monique Bolton - Pierre
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02145
Have you been feeling sad, hopeless or as if life is overwhelming? Are you wondering if the anxiety and struggles of life will ever get better? I can help you focus on empowering yourself to make the best decisions for your life through hope, help and healing so that you can maintain a fulfilling and rewarding life even in the midst of varying challenges. I have skills in the areas related to depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, grief, suicidal thoughts, self harm, domestic violence and varying other traumas and experiences.
Have you been feeling sad, hopeless or as if life is overwhelming? Are you wondering if the anxiety and struggles of life will ever get better? I can help you focus on empowering yourself to make the best decisions for your life through hope, help and healing so that you can maintain a fulfilling and rewarding life even in the midst of varying challenges. I have skills in the areas related to depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, grief, suicidal thoughts, self harm, domestic violence and varying other traumas and experiences.
(857) 304-0030 View (857) 304-0030
Photo of Lindsay Heightman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerville, MA
Lindsay Heightman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
People often find themselves looking for a therapist when their suffering becomes overwhelming, when their lives shift in a way that is difficult to adjust to, or when external factors are simply too much to navigate. We can work together to help you get through stuck places, resist harmful narratives, and develop creative solutions that work for you. My approach is collaborative, warm and empathic, and my priority is to support your connections to people, ideas, and resources that support your efforts to live a satisfying and meaningful life.
People often find themselves looking for a therapist when their suffering becomes overwhelming, when their lives shift in a way that is difficult to adjust to, or when external factors are simply too much to navigate. We can work together to help you get through stuck places, resist harmful narratives, and develop creative solutions that work for you. My approach is collaborative, warm and empathic, and my priority is to support your connections to people, ideas, and resources that support your efforts to live a satisfying and meaningful life.
(508) 252-8360 View (508) 252-8360
Photo of Brennan C Mallonee, Counselor in Somerville, MA
Brennan C Mallonee
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I help young, dynamic professionals and students deal with the anxiety and overwhelm that can creep up on you as you're out there doing what you always thought you were supposed to be doing. You work really hard professionally or academically but it's getting harder to hold it all together as you wrestle with the doubts and the stress. Your relationships might be feeling less than happy and fulfilling lately, or you're just plain overwhelmed. On the outside, you look like you have it all together - but that doesn't make you feel OK on the inside.
I help young, dynamic professionals and students deal with the anxiety and overwhelm that can creep up on you as you're out there doing what you always thought you were supposed to be doing. You work really hard professionally or academically but it's getting harder to hold it all together as you wrestle with the doubts and the stress. Your relationships might be feeling less than happy and fulfilling lately, or you're just plain overwhelmed. On the outside, you look like you have it all together - but that doesn't make you feel OK on the inside.
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Photo of Jenn Pontillo, Counselor in Somerville, MA
Jenn Pontillo
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
Hi! Morning appointments available via telehealth- private pay, & superbills. Licensed in MA/RI/VT. My practice includes adults, emerging adults, educators, and healthcare professionals. My clients typically identify feelings of anxiety, depression, and uncertainty during life transitions. They are motivated, insightful, and seeking ways to regulate and process emotions. I provide support and guidance so that you are empowered to live a full, joyful, and authentic life. I lead with compassion, empathy, humor, and care. Creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for clients to share their story is incredibly important.
Hi! Morning appointments available via telehealth- private pay, & superbills. Licensed in MA/RI/VT. My practice includes adults, emerging adults, educators, and healthcare professionals. My clients typically identify feelings of anxiety, depression, and uncertainty during life transitions. They are motivated, insightful, and seeking ways to regulate and process emotions. I provide support and guidance so that you are empowered to live a full, joyful, and authentic life. I lead with compassion, empathy, humor, and care. Creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for clients to share their story is incredibly important.
(781) 210-8151 View (781) 210-8151
Photo of Sarah C. Deschenes, Counselor in Somerville, MA
Sarah C. Deschenes
Counselor, LMHC, LCPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144
Being a human is both challenging and strange and having nonjudgmental professional support along the journey can be helpful. Whether you are seeking therapy out of a desire for healing, self-care, self-improvement, or self-discovery, together we will sort through where you're at in life and what you want going forward. Our work together will be tailored to you and your unique self. Using mind-body-spirit skills and techniques, my focus is to help you navigate your life and connect with your inner self while we process your challenges through a lens of curiosity, compassion and non-judgment.
Being a human is both challenging and strange and having nonjudgmental professional support along the journey can be helpful. Whether you are seeking therapy out of a desire for healing, self-care, self-improvement, or self-discovery, together we will sort through where you're at in life and what you want going forward. Our work together will be tailored to you and your unique self. Using mind-body-spirit skills and techniques, my focus is to help you navigate your life and connect with your inner self while we process your challenges through a lens of curiosity, compassion and non-judgment.
(339) 345-3277 View (339) 345-3277
Photo of Erik Gans LICSW, Somerville Counseling (Owner), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerville, MA
Erik Gans LICSW, Somerville Counseling (Owner)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02145
Welcome to Somerville Counseling! I’m Erik Gans, a therapist and licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with teenagers and adults facing challenges related to trauma, phobias, depression, and anxiety. Trained in EMDR, I can help you take a very structured approach to addressing past hurts, and implementing new coping skills. Although your experience is deeply personal, you don’t have to manage it alone.
Welcome to Somerville Counseling! I’m Erik Gans, a therapist and licensed clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with teenagers and adults facing challenges related to trauma, phobias, depression, and anxiety. Trained in EMDR, I can help you take a very structured approach to addressing past hurts, and implementing new coping skills. Although your experience is deeply personal, you don’t have to manage it alone.
(617) 996-8779 View (617) 996-8779
Photo of Hannah Krueger, Counselor in Somerville, MA
Hannah Krueger
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
Welcome! In today's world, we are constantly consuming information about different ways to achieve wellness. My goal is to help young women navigate the overwhelming pressures of always feeling like what we are doing is never enough. I aim to foster curiosity and empower clients to discover what makes them feel their best. We often get stuck in old thought and behavioral patterns that no longer serve us without even realizing how they are holding us back. I hope to challenge clients to identify these patterns and support them in implementing new, more productive behaviors to enhance their ability to cope and heal.
Welcome! In today's world, we are constantly consuming information about different ways to achieve wellness. My goal is to help young women navigate the overwhelming pressures of always feeling like what we are doing is never enough. I aim to foster curiosity and empower clients to discover what makes them feel their best. We often get stuck in old thought and behavioral patterns that no longer serve us without even realizing how they are holding us back. I hope to challenge clients to identify these patterns and support them in implementing new, more productive behaviors to enhance their ability to cope and heal.
(617) 618-6657 View (617) 618-6657
Photo of Bryan Christie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerville, MA
Bryan Christie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02145
*Accepting new clients* My work aims to help individuals develop a deeper connection with themselves and how they relate to the world around them. Together, we will cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness to drive positive change in your life. I tend to focus on identifying maladaptive patterns in thoughts and coping strategies, understanding where these patterns stem from and what maintains them, and exploring more sustainable, affirming approaches. Often times this means examining attachments and ruptures in early development to consider how they continue to present in day-to-day life.
*Accepting new clients* My work aims to help individuals develop a deeper connection with themselves and how they relate to the world around them. Together, we will cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness to drive positive change in your life. I tend to focus on identifying maladaptive patterns in thoughts and coping strategies, understanding where these patterns stem from and what maintains them, and exploring more sustainable, affirming approaches. Often times this means examining attachments and ruptures in early development to consider how they continue to present in day-to-day life.
(617) 440-7637 View (617) 440-7637
Photo of Janasa Austrie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Somerville, MA
Janasa Austrie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02143
My ideal client is open and receptive to change, willing to address the past, and ready to heal forward. They are persistent and committed to understanding healing as a journey. They are looking for support and guidance in a safe, trusting space that will allow them to learn how to live a more fulfilling life.
My ideal client is open and receptive to change, willing to address the past, and ready to heal forward. They are persistent and committed to understanding healing as a journey. They are looking for support and guidance in a safe, trusting space that will allow them to learn how to live a more fulfilling life.
(617) 213-9146 View (617) 213-9146
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.