Emotionally Focused Therapists in Oxford County, ME

Photo of Christine Ann Laflamme, Counselor in Oxford County, ME
Christine Ann Laflamme
Counselor, LCMHC, LCPC, MLADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brownfield, ME 04010  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress? Using substances in order to cope? Let me help! I have been in practice since 2008 helping individuals learn ways of coping with the stressors of life, working through traumatic memories and experiences that can hold you back from living your best life. I offer a personalized, compassionate connection in therapy to ensure that you feel comfortable and have trust in the process to wellness and recovery.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress? Using substances in order to cope? Let me help! I have been in practice since 2008 helping individuals learn ways of coping with the stressors of life, working through traumatic memories and experiences that can hold you back from living your best life. I offer a personalized, compassionate connection in therapy to ensure that you feel comfortable and have trust in the process to wellness and recovery.
(207) 245-1685 View (207) 245-1685
Photo of Roseann Pauline McLaughlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxford County, ME
Roseann Pauline McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lovell, ME 04051
Therapy is a gift to yourself. Life is difficult at times. Therapy gives you tools to meet those challenges. My role is to guide you toward the parts of you in which your strengths reside. You learn life skills that help you make the best choices for your current circumstances. I will teach you to understand how your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs sometimes bring disharmony. Therapy helps you to modify your perspective and determine ways of dealing with life's problems.You can then make healthy choices to meet life's challenges. Are you ready to make such changes?
Therapy is a gift to yourself. Life is difficult at times. Therapy gives you tools to meet those challenges. My role is to guide you toward the parts of you in which your strengths reside. You learn life skills that help you make the best choices for your current circumstances. I will teach you to understand how your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs sometimes bring disharmony. Therapy helps you to modify your perspective and determine ways of dealing with life's problems.You can then make healthy choices to meet life's challenges. Are you ready to make such changes?
(207) 747-3963 View (207) 747-3963
Photo of Noreen E Sprague, Counselor in Oxford County, ME
Noreen E Sprague
Counselor, LCPC, CCS, MHRTC
Verified Verified
Rumford, ME 04276  (Online Only)
I am a seasoned mental health therapist who provides the convenience of telehealth (videoconferencing and telephone) to Adults across the State of Maine to address a variety of mental health needs from anxiety and depression to PTSD. I am trained in trauma and familiar with CPS cases. I accept Maine Care and Self pay only.
I am a seasoned mental health therapist who provides the convenience of telehealth (videoconferencing and telephone) to Adults across the State of Maine to address a variety of mental health needs from anxiety and depression to PTSD. I am trained in trauma and familiar with CPS cases. I accept Maine Care and Self pay only.
(207) 536-8021 View (207) 536-8021
Photo of Larissa Brown in Oxford County, ME
Larissa Brown
MS
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Bethel, ME 04217
Are you going through a transition in your life that has you feeling overwhelmed and not knowing which way to turn? Are you someone who has big goals and even bigger dreams but find yourself feeling stuck? Or maybe you found your way here because you're struggling in your relationship and are looking for someone who can help you sort out your feelings and figure out how to move forward. If you can relate to any of these, you're not alone! So many of us are currently going through the scary and painful process of shedding the pieces of ourselves that no longer fit in order to fully embrace who we truly are. Change is hard, I can help
Are you going through a transition in your life that has you feeling overwhelmed and not knowing which way to turn? Are you someone who has big goals and even bigger dreams but find yourself feeling stuck? Or maybe you found your way here because you're struggling in your relationship and are looking for someone who can help you sort out your feelings and figure out how to move forward. If you can relate to any of these, you're not alone! So many of us are currently going through the scary and painful process of shedding the pieces of ourselves that no longer fit in order to fully embrace who we truly are. Change is hard, I can help
(207) 808-1210 View (207) 808-1210
Photo of Jamie Ann Morrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxford County, ME
Jamie Ann Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Denmark, ME 04022  (Online Only)
I am a licensed independent social worker (aka mental health therapist) in FL, WA, MA, NH and ME. Therapy is a partnership and part of my job is to hold up the mirror for you to look at yourself. While using the therapeutic space to vent and process is an important component, I see the most progress in people who recognize things they want to change while in session and then take action to make those changes while out in the world. It is MY goal to meet you where you're at as you navigate YOUR goals; you are the expert on yourself and it's important to me that, together, we really hone in on what it is that YOU want to focus on.
I am a licensed independent social worker (aka mental health therapist) in FL, WA, MA, NH and ME. Therapy is a partnership and part of my job is to hold up the mirror for you to look at yourself. While using the therapeutic space to vent and process is an important component, I see the most progress in people who recognize things they want to change while in session and then take action to make those changes while out in the world. It is MY goal to meet you where you're at as you navigate YOUR goals; you are the expert on yourself and it's important to me that, together, we really hone in on what it is that YOU want to focus on.
(727) 947-1572 View (727) 947-1572
Photo of Riverstones Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Oxford County, ME
Riverstones Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Norway, ME 04268
Not accepting new clients
After 20 years as a counselor, I appreciate how important it is for all of us to sometimes find a safe place to talk through difficult emotions and experiences, feel more understood, and regain the hope and confidence necessary to enact meaningful life changes. I help clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. I invite my clients to help me understand what is most important to them, allow themselves the opportunity to explore both the fears and strengths at play in their lives, and embrace new ways of caring for themselves which fit with their preferences and values.
After 20 years as a counselor, I appreciate how important it is for all of us to sometimes find a safe place to talk through difficult emotions and experiences, feel more understood, and regain the hope and confidence necessary to enact meaningful life changes. I help clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. I invite my clients to help me understand what is most important to them, allow themselves the opportunity to explore both the fears and strengths at play in their lives, and embrace new ways of caring for themselves which fit with their preferences and values.
(207) 613-2463 View (207) 613-2463

Online Therapists

Photo of Sylvie P. Demers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxford County, ME
Sylvie P. Demers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
Utilizing Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy-(EFT), I help couples to finally get past the repeating patterns that contribute to blocks preventing greater intimacy and living a more fulfilling life.
My practice is focused on helping couples improve the quality of their relationships. Having healthy and secure relationships keep us physically and emotionally happier and healthier. When we feel disconnected, our body, mind and soul inevitably suffer. We all experience adversity and heartbreak; the trick is finding meaningful connection in the midst of challenges. The science of attachment provides an exciting roadmap to heal relationship distress. Learning how to seek and receive emotional comfort and connection creates resilience, protection, energy and is the antidote to the feelings of loneliness and helplessness.
Utilizing Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy-(EFT), I help couples to finally get past the repeating patterns that contribute to blocks preventing greater intimacy and living a more fulfilling life.
My practice is focused on helping couples improve the quality of their relationships. Having healthy and secure relationships keep us physically and emotionally happier and healthier. When we feel disconnected, our body, mind and soul inevitably suffer. We all experience adversity and heartbreak; the trick is finding meaningful connection in the midst of challenges. The science of attachment provides an exciting roadmap to heal relationship distress. Learning how to seek and receive emotional comfort and connection creates resilience, protection, energy and is the antidote to the feelings of loneliness and helplessness.
(207) 835-3374 View (207) 835-3374
Photo of Marianne Borgo-Ledue, Counselor in Oxford County, ME
Marianne Borgo-Ledue
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR clinician and have training in a number of evidenced based techniques including mindfulness-based therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EFT Tapping, and Somatic Psychotherapy to name a few.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or feeling overwhelmed? Are you noticing your life has become difficult to cope with? When life becomes too busy we can begin to feel depleted and stress begins to build, leading to symptoms that can be disruptive to our lives. If you are experiencing poor sleep, general increase in frustration, low mood and maybe even a decline in health, it may be in response to a persistent level of daily stress. I work with people in a safe, non-judgmental capacity. I provide support from a holistic perspective considering the entirety of your experience to assist you in restoring a sense of wellbeing.
I am an EMDR clinician and have training in a number of evidenced based techniques including mindfulness-based therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EFT Tapping, and Somatic Psychotherapy to name a few.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or feeling overwhelmed? Are you noticing your life has become difficult to cope with? When life becomes too busy we can begin to feel depleted and stress begins to build, leading to symptoms that can be disruptive to our lives. If you are experiencing poor sleep, general increase in frustration, low mood and maybe even a decline in health, it may be in response to a persistent level of daily stress. I work with people in a safe, non-judgmental capacity. I provide support from a holistic perspective considering the entirety of your experience to assist you in restoring a sense of wellbeing.
(207) 548-5853 View (207) 548-5853
Photo of PSM Center for Relationships, Psychologist in Oxford County, ME
PSM Center for Relationships
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Our center offers therapists trained in several couple therapy modalities, including two psychologists certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), one trained in the Gottman method, one with advanced training in Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (PACT), and skilled postdoctoral residents training in these methods.
Romantic relationships are tricky, if not treacherous. We long to feel important and understood and we expect love and intimacy to last a lifetime. But so often, our love relationships leave us feeling wounded, disillusioned, and discouraged. While there is never a guarantee of safety or security in relationships, there is the real possibility for depth, comfort, connection, and radiant joy. Couples therapy helps us confront the heal the deep wounds, discover new parts of ourselves, and find a safe haven in our relationships. Intensive Couples Therapy is a short-term, in-depth and focused approach to helping couples in distress.
Our center offers therapists trained in several couple therapy modalities, including two psychologists certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), one trained in the Gottman method, one with advanced training in Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (PACT), and skilled postdoctoral residents training in these methods.
Romantic relationships are tricky, if not treacherous. We long to feel important and understood and we expect love and intimacy to last a lifetime. But so often, our love relationships leave us feeling wounded, disillusioned, and discouraged. While there is never a guarantee of safety or security in relationships, there is the real possibility for depth, comfort, connection, and radiant joy. Couples therapy helps us confront the heal the deep wounds, discover new parts of ourselves, and find a safe haven in our relationships. Intensive Couples Therapy is a short-term, in-depth and focused approach to helping couples in distress.
(207) 218-0198 View (207) 218-0198
Photo of Eliza Beth Meyer Lcpc, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oxford County, ME
Eliza Beth Meyer Lcpc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240  (Online Only)
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
SOLUTION FOCUSED, practical and effective therapy. Twenty years of experience...If you are looking for extra support and guidance to deal with a challenging situation or ready to move forward in a different direction in your life, I welcome the opportunity to listen and work together to find solutions and achieve your goals. Improve your ability to communicate in relationships.. Strengthen your family... Heal from past experiences... Manage anxiety/depression... Dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and skills to develop new healthy patterns.
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
SOLUTION FOCUSED, practical and effective therapy. Twenty years of experience...If you are looking for extra support and guidance to deal with a challenging situation or ready to move forward in a different direction in your life, I welcome the opportunity to listen and work together to find solutions and achieve your goals. Improve your ability to communicate in relationships.. Strengthen your family... Heal from past experiences... Manage anxiety/depression... Dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and skills to develop new healthy patterns.
(207) 517-4021 View (207) 517-4021
Photo of Danielle Tekut, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxford County, ME
Danielle Tekut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Brainspotting, EFT, and parts work to deepen understanding of the complexity of one's inner world and relationships with compassion and curiosity.
In my work with individuals and couples, I engage in each therapeutic relationship with a warm, reflective, and grounding presence. I believe firmly in the worthiness of all to a sense of belonging, dignity, and agency and have witnessed time and again how therapy can be a powerful tool in accessing these needs. Being heard and understood within a supportive therapy environment allows us to both uncover our innate strengths and cultivate the skills and insight necessary to reduce suffering. Regardless of how ingrained and automatic our patterns might be and how stuck we might feel, a more peaceful life is possible for each of us.
I utilize Brainspotting, EFT, and parts work to deepen understanding of the complexity of one's inner world and relationships with compassion and curiosity.
In my work with individuals and couples, I engage in each therapeutic relationship with a warm, reflective, and grounding presence. I believe firmly in the worthiness of all to a sense of belonging, dignity, and agency and have witnessed time and again how therapy can be a powerful tool in accessing these needs. Being heard and understood within a supportive therapy environment allows us to both uncover our innate strengths and cultivate the skills and insight necessary to reduce suffering. Regardless of how ingrained and automatic our patterns might be and how stuck we might feel, a more peaceful life is possible for each of us.
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Photo of Arlene B Brewster, Psychologist in Oxford County, ME
Arlene B Brewster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kittery Point, ME 03905
I also use Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy in treating couples.
As a psychologist with over thirty years of experience, I continue to be inspired by helping hundreds of clients break away from the fear, worry and despair that once defined them, and create the lives that they hoped for. In addition to psychodynamic therapy I have trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy and Emtionally Focused Couple Therapy. Using these tools I have helped clients move toward more inner peace and hope. My profession offers me a unique gift to be part of their journey towards healthier relationships, thoughts, and behavior.
I also use Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy in treating couples.
As a psychologist with over thirty years of experience, I continue to be inspired by helping hundreds of clients break away from the fear, worry and despair that once defined them, and create the lives that they hoped for. In addition to psychodynamic therapy I have trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy and Emtionally Focused Couple Therapy. Using these tools I have helped clients move toward more inner peace and hope. My profession offers me a unique gift to be part of their journey towards healthier relationships, thoughts, and behavior.
(207) 358-0957 View (207) 358-0957
Photo of Christine Linnehan, Counselor in Oxford County, ME
Christine Linnehan
Counselor, MS, LCPC, BC-DMT, FT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scarborough, ME 04074  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
For couples seeking to enrich or restore their relationship, I draw from two models that are backed by substantial research: The Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with children, adults, couples and families. A main focus of my practice is grief counseling. I am certified in thanatology and have a special interest in providing support to individuals and families after traumatic loss. I also have extensive experience working with those who are seeking help for depression and anxiety or who would like to improve their capacity to cope with stress, relationships, and life transitions.
For couples seeking to enrich or restore their relationship, I draw from two models that are backed by substantial research: The Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with children, adults, couples and families. A main focus of my practice is grief counseling. I am certified in thanatology and have a special interest in providing support to individuals and families after traumatic loss. I also have extensive experience working with those who are seeking help for depression and anxiety or who would like to improve their capacity to cope with stress, relationships, and life transitions.
(207) 883-7706 View (207) 883-7706
Photo of Julia M Graham, Counselor in Oxford County, ME
Julia M Graham
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gray, ME 04039  (Online Only)
I use an individualized approach that is based in mindfulness and compassion and draws from emotionally focused therapy, attachment based therapy, and internal family systems concepts.
I am currently offering only online sessions.
I use an individualized approach that is based in mindfulness and compassion and draws from emotionally focused therapy, attachment based therapy, and internal family systems concepts.
I am currently offering only online sessions.
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Photo of Evergreen Psychological Services, Psychologist in Oxford County, ME
Evergreen Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
My clients often start therapy feeling anxious, self-critical, and disconnected from themselves. If this sounds like you, we can work collaboratively to understand your unique patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating to yourself and others. We can work towards shifting any patterns that are no longer helping you and will tailor our approach to your specific needs. We can discuss your past, present, and future. I bring a sense of curiosity, warmth, and humor to my work and invite you to bring your authentic self to the room as well.
My clients often start therapy feeling anxious, self-critical, and disconnected from themselves. If this sounds like you, we can work collaboratively to understand your unique patterns of thinking, feeling, and relating to yourself and others. We can work towards shifting any patterns that are no longer helping you and will tailor our approach to your specific needs. We can discuss your past, present, and future. I bring a sense of curiosity, warmth, and humor to my work and invite you to bring your authentic self to the room as well.
(207) 605-8642 View (207) 605-8642
Photo of Therapy For Mamas And Couples Dominique Couture-Sherman Gottman Level 2, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxford County, ME
Therapy For Mamas And Couples Dominique Couture-Sherman Gottman Level 2
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kennebunk, ME 04043  (Online Only)
I have trainings in CBT, DBT, EFT and the Gottman Method.
Welcome! My practice focuses on supporting new Mom’s, parents, couples and individuals navigating the dating world. I’m also trained and certified in grief and loss and have experience supporting people moving through neonatal, newborn or child loss, loss of a parent, spouse, life partner or pet. I also have some experience in treating those moving through a diagnosis of prolonged grief. In addition, I have a special interest in supporting individuals and couples with ADHD and especially navigating ADHD within a relationship and I enjoy supporting folks around navigating the complexities of open and polyamorous relationships.
I have trainings in CBT, DBT, EFT and the Gottman Method.
Welcome! My practice focuses on supporting new Mom’s, parents, couples and individuals navigating the dating world. I’m also trained and certified in grief and loss and have experience supporting people moving through neonatal, newborn or child loss, loss of a parent, spouse, life partner or pet. I also have some experience in treating those moving through a diagnosis of prolonged grief. In addition, I have a special interest in supporting individuals and couples with ADHD and especially navigating ADHD within a relationship and I enjoy supporting folks around navigating the complexities of open and polyamorous relationships.
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Photo of Ron Young, Psychologist in Oxford County, ME
Ron Young
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
My work is informed by several approaches, including Interpersonal (developmental and relational patterns), Object Relations (the primary importance of attachment), Family Systems (understanding environmental rules and roles that shaped your development) Cognitive-Behavioral (cognitive restructuring, humor) and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy.
I work with adults (18+) to help relieve depression, anxiety, stress, challenges within relationships, grief, as well as challenges associated with life transitions, loss and adjustment. My consistent, caring and collaborative approach will help you gain insight and we will develop a plan to create fulfilling and lasting changes.
My work is informed by several approaches, including Interpersonal (developmental and relational patterns), Object Relations (the primary importance of attachment), Family Systems (understanding environmental rules and roles that shaped your development) Cognitive-Behavioral (cognitive restructuring, humor) and Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy.
I work with adults (18+) to help relieve depression, anxiety, stress, challenges within relationships, grief, as well as challenges associated with life transitions, loss and adjustment. My consistent, caring and collaborative approach will help you gain insight and we will develop a plan to create fulfilling and lasting changes.
(207) 389-7960 View (207) 389-7960
Photo of Ginger Walker, Clinical Professional Counselor in Oxford County, ME
Ginger Walker
Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Windham, ME 04062  (Online Only)
With compassion and a uniquely client-centered approach to presenting concerns, I support you as you progress through life transitions for healing and growth. Clients say they appreciate the strong rapport, emotional reinforcement, insight, and holistic perspective. My style is interactive and nonjudgmental. I am dedicated to working with a variety of problem areas, including relationship conflict, trauma, anxiety, depression, and multi-cultural concerns. My work is integrative, concentrating on mind/body/spirit wellness. Counseling is offered on a brief or longer-term basis.
With compassion and a uniquely client-centered approach to presenting concerns, I support you as you progress through life transitions for healing and growth. Clients say they appreciate the strong rapport, emotional reinforcement, insight, and holistic perspective. My style is interactive and nonjudgmental. I am dedicated to working with a variety of problem areas, including relationship conflict, trauma, anxiety, depression, and multi-cultural concerns. My work is integrative, concentrating on mind/body/spirit wellness. Counseling is offered on a brief or longer-term basis.
(207) 209-1528 View (207) 209-1528
Photo of Holly Macrae, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxford County, ME
Holly Macrae
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CTMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101  (Online Only)
I tailor my person-centered approach to your unique needs, pulling from evidence-based modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Gottman and EFT.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide solution focused couples counseling and individual therapy to clients who are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, and finding meaning and fulfillment in their lives. Whether you are needing short or long-term therapy, my goal is to help you develop ways to take care of yourself and your relationships. If you are wanting to make progress in couples therapy and feel some immediate relief, I provide weekly or biweekly 60 or 75 minute sessions to help move through whatever issues you may be struggling with.
I tailor my person-centered approach to your unique needs, pulling from evidence-based modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness, Gottman and EFT.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I provide solution focused couples counseling and individual therapy to clients who are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, and finding meaning and fulfillment in their lives. Whether you are needing short or long-term therapy, my goal is to help you develop ways to take care of yourself and your relationships. If you are wanting to make progress in couples therapy and feel some immediate relief, I provide weekly or biweekly 60 or 75 minute sessions to help move through whatever issues you may be struggling with.
(207) 618-9009 View (207) 618-9009
Photo of Caroline Ginsberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oxford County, ME
Caroline Ginsberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from trauma-informed, client-centered approaches including Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Narrative.
Therapy offers us a space to show up for the parts of ourselves that have been hurting. The parts that, for whatever the reason, have felt neglected, abandoned, scared, or are in need of attention and care. I work to create a supportive and warm therapeutic relationship where we can cultivate greater awareness, presence, and tenderness to our inner experiences allowing for more skillful navigation of challenging emotions, situations, and stuck patterns.
I draw from trauma-informed, client-centered approaches including Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Narrative.
Therapy offers us a space to show up for the parts of ourselves that have been hurting. The parts that, for whatever the reason, have felt neglected, abandoned, scared, or are in need of attention and care. I work to create a supportive and warm therapeutic relationship where we can cultivate greater awareness, presence, and tenderness to our inner experiences allowing for more skillful navigation of challenging emotions, situations, and stuck patterns.
(207) 489-4124 View (207) 489-4124

See more therapy options for Oxford 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.