Emotionally Focused Therapists in Middleville, MI

Photo of Bret Alan Hoxworth, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Bret Alan Hoxworth
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Middleville, MI 49333
I am a seasoned, compassionate therapist, with over 25 years of counseling experience in assisting you to navigate life and heal inside & in your various relationships. EMDR is the most powerful tool for healing that I have acquired to help you find inner strength and peace. Along with EMDR, I have been trained in an adjunct treatment called LENS to reset the brain and optimize its functioning and ability to calmly focus. These adjunct treatments turn out to be a winning combination for many seeking inner peace, healthy self-esteem, & more wholeness. I am also skilled in helping you gain and maintain your addiction recovery.
I am a seasoned, compassionate therapist, with over 25 years of counseling experience in assisting you to navigate life and heal inside & in your various relationships. EMDR is the most powerful tool for healing that I have acquired to help you find inner strength and peace. Along with EMDR, I have been trained in an adjunct treatment called LENS to reset the brain and optimize its functioning and ability to calmly focus. These adjunct treatments turn out to be a winning combination for many seeking inner peace, healthy self-esteem, & more wholeness. I am also skilled in helping you gain and maintain your addiction recovery.
(616) 504-1056 View (616) 504-1056
Photo of Kathryn Loy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Kathryn Loy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Middleville, MI 49333
You didn’t expect things to turn out this way. You’re heart pounds and your head gets fuzzy. Things are SO challenging lately. You’re feeling Overwhelmed and underappreciated, but.. I mean, everyone’s overwhelmed or feeling self-doubt and pressure, right? Doesn’t everyone feel like they don’t fit in or awkward? You’re really good at putting on that happy face for your friends & family, but inside you feel like nothing ever goes as planned, you’re stressed, unsatisfied and overwhelmed. Going to School or work causes anxiety, staying home causes anxiety and life is just plain Hard!
You didn’t expect things to turn out this way. You’re heart pounds and your head gets fuzzy. Things are SO challenging lately. You’re feeling Overwhelmed and underappreciated, but.. I mean, everyone’s overwhelmed or feeling self-doubt and pressure, right? Doesn’t everyone feel like they don’t fit in or awkward? You’re really good at putting on that happy face for your friends & family, but inside you feel like nothing ever goes as planned, you’re stressed, unsatisfied and overwhelmed. Going to School or work causes anxiety, staying home causes anxiety and life is just plain Hard!
(517) 901-1934 View (517) 901-1934
Photo of Adam Luke Nash, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Adam Luke Nash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello, are you struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, past family hurt or trauma? Are you an adult trying to figure out what your future looks like? If you are I would love the chance to work with you to reach your fullest potential. Friedrich Nietzsche said "He who has a why to live can bear almost any how" and I believe that therapy at its best is driving towards the why in order to move out in to a fuller, richer, more meaningful life. If you are searching for you "why" today is the day to start discovering your deeper self and living a more fulfilling live.
Hello, are you struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, past family hurt or trauma? Are you an adult trying to figure out what your future looks like? If you are I would love the chance to work with you to reach your fullest potential. Friedrich Nietzsche said "He who has a why to live can bear almost any how" and I believe that therapy at its best is driving towards the why in order to move out in to a fuller, richer, more meaningful life. If you are searching for you "why" today is the day to start discovering your deeper self and living a more fulfilling live.
(616) 797-9671 View (616) 797-9671

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Victoria Grimm, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Victoria Grimm
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
My approach is rooted in emotionally focused therapy, specializing in attachment and connection.
Are you a high-achieving professional who feels like no matter how much you accomplish, it’s never enough? You struggle with feelings of insecurity and disconnection despite your success. I help individuals like you build emotional security, break unhelpful patterns, and create deeper, more fulfilling connections in your life. My approach is straightforward, honest, and tailored to your goals, giving you the tools to achieve the lasting change you’re ready for.
My approach is rooted in emotionally focused therapy, specializing in attachment and connection.
Are you a high-achieving professional who feels like no matter how much you accomplish, it’s never enough? You struggle with feelings of insecurity and disconnection despite your success. I help individuals like you build emotional security, break unhelpful patterns, and create deeper, more fulfilling connections in your life. My approach is straightforward, honest, and tailored to your goals, giving you the tools to achieve the lasting change you’re ready for.
(480) 568-3290 View (480) 568-3290
Photo of Mark Fox, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA LLP
Mark Fox
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA LLP
Verified Verified
Online Only
The primary issues I treat are, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD related issues, Marital and Relationship Issues using Gottman and EFT based techniques, Existential Cultural Issues, Males Issues, Anger Management and Truma Issues.
Hi, I'm Mark, an seasoned psychotherapist with a virtual practice, (Limited in person Private Pay Only inquire for pricing and details) specializing in therapy and life coaching for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and marital therapy. Offering a supportive space for individuals and couples to navigate their challenges. Together, we’ll work to empower you on your path to healing and growth. Everyone deserves happiness—call for a free initial consultation to see if we’re a good fit and let’s get started. We’ll uncover personalized strategies to enhance your mental well-being, strengthen relationships, and create a more fulfilling life.
The primary issues I treat are, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD related issues, Marital and Relationship Issues using Gottman and EFT based techniques, Existential Cultural Issues, Males Issues, Anger Management and Truma Issues.
Hi, I'm Mark, an seasoned psychotherapist with a virtual practice, (Limited in person Private Pay Only inquire for pricing and details) specializing in therapy and life coaching for Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and marital therapy. Offering a supportive space for individuals and couples to navigate their challenges. Together, we’ll work to empower you on your path to healing and growth. Everyone deserves happiness—call for a free initial consultation to see if we’re a good fit and let’s get started. We’ll uncover personalized strategies to enhance your mental well-being, strengthen relationships, and create a more fulfilling life.
(269) 280-4206 View (269) 280-4206
Photo of Tristen Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Tristen Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
Drawing from specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), I help you understand the root causes behind difficult emotions like anger, shame, and guilt.
As a gay therapist and proud LGBTQ+ community member, I provide genuinely affirming care for clients of all ages across Michigan. My practice offers a safe, judgment-free space where your experiences are truly understood. I help you process emotional challenges, heal from trauma, and build stronger relationships through compassionate support.
Drawing from specialized training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), I help you understand the root causes behind difficult emotions like anger, shame, and guilt.
As a gay therapist and proud LGBTQ+ community member, I provide genuinely affirming care for clients of all ages across Michigan. My practice offers a safe, judgment-free space where your experiences are truly understood. I help you process emotional challenges, heal from trauma, and build stronger relationships through compassionate support.
(616) 522-8593 View (616) 522-8593
Photo of Ebony Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ebony Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy, we'll work together to identify challenges and set goals for what you want to achieve.
We're all trying our best to navigate life, which is complicated and hard but also amazing and joyous. Helping others on their path motivates me and gives me purpose. We'll collaboratively explore specific areas that you want to focus on and develop a plan to effectively address those areas.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy, we'll work together to identify challenges and set goals for what you want to achieve.
We're all trying our best to navigate life, which is complicated and hard but also amazing and joyous. Helping others on their path motivates me and gives me purpose. We'll collaboratively explore specific areas that you want to focus on and develop a plan to effectively address those areas.
(734) 361-5166 View (734) 361-5166
Photo of Laura Trombley, Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Laura Trombley
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Now accepting couples for Emotionally Focused Therapy!
I primarily employ aspects of ACT and EFT in my sessions based on the needs of my clients. I am a DBT informed therapist as well. I take a directive and interactive approach in treatment, giving clients concrete skills to reduce depression, anxiety, and distress. In treatment, we can get explore core issues and get you to a place of healing.
Now accepting couples for Emotionally Focused Therapy!
I primarily employ aspects of ACT and EFT in my sessions based on the needs of my clients. I am a DBT informed therapist as well. I take a directive and interactive approach in treatment, giving clients concrete skills to reduce depression, anxiety, and distress. In treatment, we can get explore core issues and get you to a place of healing.
(269) 247-6214 View (269) 247-6214
Photo of Catherine Downes, LLPC
Catherine Downes
LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and use a flexible, trauma-informed approach, incorporating different evidence based techniques to best meet my clients' needs.
I work with individuals and couples facing trauma, relationship challenges, and anxiety or mood issues, particularly those seeking to build emotional awareness and self-esteem while addressing patterns like overthinking, people-pleasing, and avoidance. Using a relaxed, relational approach, I create a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore insights, develop healthier coping strategies, and strengthen emotional connections.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and use a flexible, trauma-informed approach, incorporating different evidence based techniques to best meet my clients' needs.
I work with individuals and couples facing trauma, relationship challenges, and anxiety or mood issues, particularly those seeking to build emotional awareness and self-esteem while addressing patterns like overthinking, people-pleasing, and avoidance. Using a relaxed, relational approach, I create a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore insights, develop healthier coping strategies, and strengthen emotional connections.
(616) 404-4933 View (616) 404-4933
Photo of Andreas Jenrich, Counselor, MA, LLPC
Andreas Jenrich
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49007
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) to help couples break negative cycles, rebuild trust, and deepen emotional connection.
Do you struggle with conflict in your relationship, unresolved trauma, or a sense of disconnection that affects your daily life and emotional wellbeing? Do you feel overwhelmed or frustrated trying to navigate endless arguments, isolation, or unprocessed pain? Do you hope for deeper connections or to feel more grounded in yourself? Now more than ever, couples and individuals feel uncertain about how to heal and reconnect. You don’t have to face these challenges alone—together, we can work toward a healthier, more balanced life.
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) to help couples break negative cycles, rebuild trust, and deepen emotional connection.
Do you struggle with conflict in your relationship, unresolved trauma, or a sense of disconnection that affects your daily life and emotional wellbeing? Do you feel overwhelmed or frustrated trying to navigate endless arguments, isolation, or unprocessed pain? Do you hope for deeper connections or to feel more grounded in yourself? Now more than ever, couples and individuals feel uncertain about how to heal and reconnect. You don’t have to face these challenges alone—together, we can work toward a healthier, more balanced life.
(269) 575-4642 View (269) 575-4642
Photo of Eric Fullen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Eric Fullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I tend to pull from Internal Family Systems and Emotionally Focused Therapy because of their nonjudgmental and compassionate approaches, but I am also trained in CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you feeling stuck, lost, or just burned out? You're not alone. We've all been there. I'd love to come alongside you as I believe you have what you need to heal and grow. I will provide the space, support, and freedom to explore the things holding you back from being your authentic self. I will hold compassion for all of you, including the parts you feel ashamed of, the parts that are angry, and the parts you don't want anyone else to see.
I tend to pull from Internal Family Systems and Emotionally Focused Therapy because of their nonjudgmental and compassionate approaches, but I am also trained in CBT, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
Are you feeling stuck, lost, or just burned out? You're not alone. We've all been there. I'd love to come alongside you as I believe you have what you need to heal and grow. I will provide the space, support, and freedom to explore the things holding you back from being your authentic self. I will hold compassion for all of you, including the parts you feel ashamed of, the parts that are angry, and the parts you don't want anyone else to see.
(616) 727-7923 View (616) 727-7923
Photo of Ruth Westfall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Ruth Westfall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I use skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic, Emotionally Focused, and Positive Psychology
I am Ruth Westfall, a licensed Social Worker, with nearly 30 years of experience as a therapist. I am passionate about getting to know my clients and seeing them heal and overcome life's challenges. I have the greatest respect for those who seek support in order to make positive change in their lives! During these past few years, Anxiety and Depression have increased by 25%! So, most people that I work with are experiencing some related symptoms. I have an extensive history of working with trauma and its many effects. I prefer to work with individual clients, especially when on the telehealth platform.
I use skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic, Emotionally Focused, and Positive Psychology
I am Ruth Westfall, a licensed Social Worker, with nearly 30 years of experience as a therapist. I am passionate about getting to know my clients and seeing them heal and overcome life's challenges. I have the greatest respect for those who seek support in order to make positive change in their lives! During these past few years, Anxiety and Depression have increased by 25%! So, most people that I work with are experiencing some related symptoms. I have an extensive history of working with trauma and its many effects. I prefer to work with individual clients, especially when on the telehealth platform.
(734) 307-1061 View (734) 307-1061
Photo of Heather A. Frick, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Heather A. Frick
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with clients from an attachment-based lens and specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Hi there! My name is Heather, and I am a doctoral-level licensed marriage & family therapist licensed in CA, MI, and IL. As a relationship-focused therapist, I am committed to helping couples, individuals, and families create strong, secure, and lasting connections in their relationships. Whether you are feeling stuck in relationship patterns that leave you feeling disconnected from your partner, have experienced a relationship injury like an affair or addiction, or are facing a new or ongoing medical diagnosis that you are unsure how to navigate mentally, emotionally, or relationally, I would love to help.
I work with clients from an attachment-based lens and specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Hi there! My name is Heather, and I am a doctoral-level licensed marriage & family therapist licensed in CA, MI, and IL. As a relationship-focused therapist, I am committed to helping couples, individuals, and families create strong, secure, and lasting connections in their relationships. Whether you are feeling stuck in relationship patterns that leave you feeling disconnected from your partner, have experienced a relationship injury like an affair or addiction, or are facing a new or ongoing medical diagnosis that you are unsure how to navigate mentally, emotionally, or relationally, I would love to help.
(616) 205-9081 View (616) 205-9081
Photo of Ruth Westfall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Ruth Westfall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I use skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic, Emotionally Focused, and Positive Psychology
I am Ruth Westfall, a licensed Social Worker, with nearly 30 years of experience as a therapist. I am passionate about getting to know my clients and seeing them heal and overcome life's challenges. I have the greatest respect for those who seek support in order to make positive change in their lives! During these past few years, Anxiety and Depression have increased by 25%! So, most people that I work with are experiencing some related symptoms. I have an extensive history of working with trauma and its many effects. I prefer to work with individual clients, especially when on the telehealth platform.
I use skills from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Somatic, Emotionally Focused, and Positive Psychology
I am Ruth Westfall, a licensed Social Worker, with nearly 30 years of experience as a therapist. I am passionate about getting to know my clients and seeing them heal and overcome life's challenges. I have the greatest respect for those who seek support in order to make positive change in their lives! During these past few years, Anxiety and Depression have increased by 25%! So, most people that I work with are experiencing some related symptoms. I have an extensive history of working with trauma and its many effects. I prefer to work with individual clients, especially when on the telehealth platform.
(734) 577-7996 View (734) 577-7996
Photo of Allison Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist, LLMFT, MA
Allison Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, LLMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Grandville, MI 49418
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and specialize in working with clients who are seeking marital and couples therapy.
Are you feeling like you and your significant other are stuck in a cycle of having the same argument? Do you get that "here we go again" feeling when conflict arises? Are your relationships impacted by your past? Are you looking for healing, growth, and freedom from burdens? If you can relate to any of these statements, I would love to help.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and specialize in working with clients who are seeking marital and couples therapy.
Are you feeling like you and your significant other are stuck in a cycle of having the same argument? Do you get that "here we go again" feeling when conflict arises? Are your relationships impacted by your past? Are you looking for healing, growth, and freedom from burdens? If you can relate to any of these statements, I would love to help.
(616) 222-0631 x711 View (616) 222-0631 x711
Photo of Ebony Morales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Ebony Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy, we'll work together to identify challenges and set goals for what you want to achieve.
We're all trying our best to navigate life, which is complicated and hard but also amazing and joyous. Helping others on their path motivates me and gives me purpose. We'll collaboratively explore specific areas that you want to focus on and develop a plan to effectively address those areas.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Solutions Focused Therapy, we'll work together to identify challenges and set goals for what you want to achieve.
We're all trying our best to navigate life, which is complicated and hard but also amazing and joyous. Helping others on their path motivates me and gives me purpose. We'll collaboratively explore specific areas that you want to focus on and develop a plan to effectively address those areas.
(734) 336-1980 View (734) 336-1980
Photo of Mark A Scheffers - Mark A Scheffers LMSW PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LMSW
Mark A Scheffers LMSW PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I work primarily with Emotionally Focused Couple, Individual, and Family Therapies ( EFT).
In a relationship with a partner that leaves you exasperated or in despair? Feeling that parts of yourself won't let you move on and experience the life you want? I specialize in attachment---the way we connect with those most important to us. I will meet you where you are. I'll work hard to understand what you are experiencing and help you find what you are looking for in your connection to those most important to you.
I work primarily with Emotionally Focused Couple, Individual, and Family Therapies ( EFT).
In a relationship with a partner that leaves you exasperated or in despair? Feeling that parts of yourself won't let you move on and experience the life you want? I specialize in attachment---the way we connect with those most important to us. I will meet you where you are. I'll work hard to understand what you are experiencing and help you find what you are looking for in your connection to those most important to you.
(269) 409-0218 View (269) 409-0218
Photo of Vanessa Benaway, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LLMFT, RYT
Vanessa Benaway
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LLMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
Online Only
I often integrate EMDR, with Emotionally Focused Therapy and other attachment based models.
The impacts of past pain can leave us feeling drained, overwhelmed and confused about our path forward. We can lack a sense of self-worth, after being hurt by the very people who were supposed to take care of us. I help clients reconnect to their inner power to reparent and restore lost parts of themselves. I guide clients in reawakening their naturally empowered, vibrant selves. I specialize in working with adult individuals and couples, seeking healing and connection both inside of themselves, and within their closest relationships. I also work with teenagers and their families.
I often integrate EMDR, with Emotionally Focused Therapy and other attachment based models.
The impacts of past pain can leave us feeling drained, overwhelmed and confused about our path forward. We can lack a sense of self-worth, after being hurt by the very people who were supposed to take care of us. I help clients reconnect to their inner power to reparent and restore lost parts of themselves. I guide clients in reawakening their naturally empowered, vibrant selves. I specialize in working with adult individuals and couples, seeking healing and connection both inside of themselves, and within their closest relationships. I also work with teenagers and their families.
(269) 215-4778 View (269) 215-4778
Photo of Corinne Graber - Michigan Integrated Therapies, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Michigan Integrated Therapies
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
We have therapists who are trained in CBT, EMDR, Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Parent Child Interaction Therapies (PCIT), Addiction and Substance use, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, Mindfulness and more
We all face challenges that can leave us feeling overwhelmed or stuck or that life is out of control, but you don’t have to navigate these feelings alone. We're here to support you in finding a path forward. Together, we can explore the underlying causes of your struggles and work towards building a life that is more balanced, peaceful, and fulfilling. Our therapists are ready to help individuals, families, couples, children and adolescents. We know that all stages of life come with their own difficulties and have therapists who specialize in each area to support your growth
We have therapists who are trained in CBT, EMDR, Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Parent Child Interaction Therapies (PCIT), Addiction and Substance use, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, Mindfulness and more
We all face challenges that can leave us feeling overwhelmed or stuck or that life is out of control, but you don’t have to navigate these feelings alone. We're here to support you in finding a path forward. Together, we can explore the underlying causes of your struggles and work towards building a life that is more balanced, peaceful, and fulfilling. Our therapists are ready to help individuals, families, couples, children and adolescents. We know that all stages of life come with their own difficulties and have therapists who specialize in each area to support your growth
(269) 778-2851 View (269) 778-2851
Photo of Tim Harlos, Counselor, MDiv, MA, LLPC
Tim Harlos
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
Byron Center, MI 49315
I am in the process of getting certified in EFT.
Our lives are stories that we are coauthoring with the Divine author. My goal in counseling is to come alongside my clients to explore their stories as well as to assist them in making positive changes for a healthier well-being. As we create a trusting relationship, my unique giftedness of curiosity will help us explore those areas in which we have decided to work on together. No matter what diagnosis or issues you are facing, the best resources you have are your relationships. Therefore, relationships are key, not only in this office, but also in your familial, social, and career life.
I am in the process of getting certified in EFT.
Our lives are stories that we are coauthoring with the Divine author. My goal in counseling is to come alongside my clients to explore their stories as well as to assist them in making positive changes for a healthier well-being. As we create a trusting relationship, my unique giftedness of curiosity will help us explore those areas in which we have decided to work on together. No matter what diagnosis or issues you are facing, the best resources you have are your relationships. Therefore, relationships are key, not only in this office, but also in your familial, social, and career life.
(616) 282-6381 View (616) 282-6381
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.