Emotionally Focused Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Ed Killeen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MAC, LPC
Ed Killeen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MAC, LPC
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Through training and supervision in Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), I can see and hear needs and feelings long hidden for fear of being hurt again.
In addition to marital and premarital counseling, I see individual men, women, and families on anger, estrangement, anxiety, depression, ADHD, pornography, sexual addictions, and workplace relational struggles. I offer men's anger management groups. My counseling theory combines a family systems view with an emotion focused therapy approach.
Through training and supervision in Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), I can see and hear needs and feelings long hidden for fear of being hurt again.
In addition to marital and premarital counseling, I see individual men, women, and families on anger, estrangement, anxiety, depression, ADHD, pornography, sexual addictions, and workplace relational struggles. I offer men's anger management groups. My counseling theory combines a family systems view with an emotion focused therapy approach.
(314) 309-3366 x1 View (314) 309-3366 x1
Photo of Mallory Cohn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Mallory Cohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63128
Waitlist for new clients
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) that guides my work with couples.
I'm passionate about helping adults and couples find healing, empowerment, growth, and meaning in their lives. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, relationship and attachment issues, life transitions, and grief. I'm especially dedicated to working with LGBTQIA+ and nonmonogamous clients. I practice from a humanistic standpoint, integrating psychodynamic, behavioral, and mindfulness-based strategies drawn from a variety of approaches in order to personalize therapy to the individual client’s values, goals, and strengths.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) that guides my work with couples.
I'm passionate about helping adults and couples find healing, empowerment, growth, and meaning in their lives. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, relationship and attachment issues, life transitions, and grief. I'm especially dedicated to working with LGBTQIA+ and nonmonogamous clients. I practice from a humanistic standpoint, integrating psychodynamic, behavioral, and mindfulness-based strategies drawn from a variety of approaches in order to personalize therapy to the individual client’s values, goals, and strengths.
(314) 886-8640 View (314) 886-8640
Photo of Anne Marie Mathews, Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MS, PLMFT
Anne Marie Mathews
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MS, PLMFT
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109
I utilize evidence-based therapies such as Solution-Focused, Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT).
I believe in all clients' innate strengths and abilities. Unfortunately, due to difficult times and experiences, it is easy to feel lost and unable to face daily challenges. In the therapy room, I will patiently work alongside you, your child or partner to uncover your innate capabilities that have always been present, but may need the time to recover, heal, or be discovered for the first time. Using a caring and empathetic approach, I will gently help you address your grief over loss, repair past wounds, and resolve mistakes in your relationships. I can also help your kids cope with depression and anxiety through play therapy.
I utilize evidence-based therapies such as Solution-Focused, Trauma-Focused Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT).
I believe in all clients' innate strengths and abilities. Unfortunately, due to difficult times and experiences, it is easy to feel lost and unable to face daily challenges. In the therapy room, I will patiently work alongside you, your child or partner to uncover your innate capabilities that have always been present, but may need the time to recover, heal, or be discovered for the first time. Using a caring and empathetic approach, I will gently help you address your grief over loss, repair past wounds, and resolve mistakes in your relationships. I can also help your kids cope with depression and anxiety through play therapy.
(314) 594-7460 View (314) 594-7460
Photo of Jennifer Ware, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Jennifer Ware
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
6 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
I work with teens, adults, and couples, and I have received advanced training in EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy).
I work with clients to address issues like relationship and/or marital conflict, family-of-origin issues, spirituality, identity, abuse and trauma. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore new paths in life, learn more about yourself, and experience new ways of flourishing.
I work with teens, adults, and couples, and I have received advanced training in EFT (Emotion Focused Therapy).
I work with clients to address issues like relationship and/or marital conflict, family-of-origin issues, spirituality, identity, abuse and trauma. My goal is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore new paths in life, learn more about yourself, and experience new ways of flourishing.
(314) 310-1207 x8 View (314) 310-1207 x8
Photo of Emma Katherine Carter, MA, PLPC
Emma Katherine Carter
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
I use an integrative approach and use elements of interpersonal therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and AEDP.
Many of us eventually reach a point where we feel truly stuck. We know we need help, but we are unsure of who we can trust. Maybe you feel yourself getting taken over by powerful emotions, thoughts, or bodily sensations, and you just want to be in control. Maybe you have been weighed down by painful experiences for years, and you long to be free of the past. Or perhaps your pain is found in the present. Maybe no matter how hard you try you can't seem to connect with your partner. Or maybe you're watching as your child struggles emotionally and socially. You feel helpless, you are in pain, and you can't do this alone anymore.
I use an integrative approach and use elements of interpersonal therapy, emotionally focused therapy, and AEDP.
Many of us eventually reach a point where we feel truly stuck. We know we need help, but we are unsure of who we can trust. Maybe you feel yourself getting taken over by powerful emotions, thoughts, or bodily sensations, and you just want to be in control. Maybe you have been weighed down by painful experiences for years, and you long to be free of the past. Or perhaps your pain is found in the present. Maybe no matter how hard you try you can't seem to connect with your partner. Or maybe you're watching as your child struggles emotionally and socially. You feel helpless, you are in pain, and you can't do this alone anymore.
(314) 582-5469 View (314) 582-5469
Photo of Nicki Fabick, Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, MEd
Nicki Fabick
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, MEd
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63126
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Person-Centered Therapy because together, they provide a compassionate, attachment-focused, and client-led approach that helps individuals and couples deepen self-awareness, heal emotional wounds, and build stronger, more authentic connections within themselves and in their relationships.
Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma, body image, or life transitions? You don’t have to face it alone. As a trauma-informed and person-centered therapist, I specialize in women’s health, reproductive grief, pelvic health, pregnancy/postpartum, and couples counseling. Whether you're navigating anything from infertility, postpartum depression, needing some extra postpartum support, to relationship challenges, I provide a safe, supportive space to heal and grow.
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Person-Centered Therapy because together, they provide a compassionate, attachment-focused, and client-led approach that helps individuals and couples deepen self-awareness, heal emotional wounds, and build stronger, more authentic connections within themselves and in their relationships.
Are you struggling with anxiety, trauma, body image, or life transitions? You don’t have to face it alone. As a trauma-informed and person-centered therapist, I specialize in women’s health, reproductive grief, pelvic health, pregnancy/postpartum, and couples counseling. Whether you're navigating anything from infertility, postpartum depression, needing some extra postpartum support, to relationship challenges, I provide a safe, supportive space to heal and grow.
(314) 948-3530 View (314) 948-3530
Photo of Sarah Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Sarah Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Online Only
My modalities include EMDR, EFT, Clinical Yoga Practitioner, CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy.
If you and your partner are struggling to find connected peace and power, we will work together and explore areas of trust, compatibility, intimacy, repair, and commitment. I often work with couples experiencing crisis, barriers to communication, intimacy struggles, and overall those that have fallen into roommate patterns. We will use a variety of modalities and theories such as Narrative Therapy (NT), Gottman’s Couples Therapy (GCT), Attachment Theory, and somatic exercises. Gottman's Couples Therapy will offer clear directions and tools to grow shared values, manage conflict, and build admiration for one another.
My modalities include EMDR, EFT, Clinical Yoga Practitioner, CBT, DBT, and Narrative Therapy.
If you and your partner are struggling to find connected peace and power, we will work together and explore areas of trust, compatibility, intimacy, repair, and commitment. I often work with couples experiencing crisis, barriers to communication, intimacy struggles, and overall those that have fallen into roommate patterns. We will use a variety of modalities and theories such as Narrative Therapy (NT), Gottman’s Couples Therapy (GCT), Attachment Theory, and somatic exercises. Gottman's Couples Therapy will offer clear directions and tools to grow shared values, manage conflict, and build admiration for one another.
(314) 710-5037 View (314) 710-5037
Photo of Kelli Eckert - Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy St Louis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy St Louis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Saint Louis, MO 63143
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(314) 270-1723 View (314) 270-1723
Photo of Megan MacKenzie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Megan MacKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Drawing primarily from Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), modern psychodynamic theory, and intersectional queer theory, I aspire to provide a validating, non-judgmental, and liberatory space for people to explore how past experiences have shaped current beliefs and patterns.
As a couples, relationship, and sexuality therapist, I'm here to help you to create more intimacy and connection in your relationships, explore your identities, and recalibrate toward a more authentic and compassionate life. I am particularly passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
Drawing primarily from Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), modern psychodynamic theory, and intersectional queer theory, I aspire to provide a validating, non-judgmental, and liberatory space for people to explore how past experiences have shaped current beliefs and patterns.
As a couples, relationship, and sexuality therapist, I'm here to help you to create more intimacy and connection in your relationships, explore your identities, and recalibrate toward a more authentic and compassionate life. I am particularly passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
(314) 626-0543 View (314) 626-0543
Photo of Nancy K. Kerne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Nancy K. Kerne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Online Only
My holistic coaching/therapy practice is a combination of ACT, EMDR, Somatic and Emotionally focused therapy with a mindfulness approach.
Are you feeling stuck or uncertain about the next steps in your life or career? Does fear of risk or performance paralysis hold you back? Do you struggle with confidence or find yourself avoiding social situations? Having personally experienced profound life changes—like relocating to St. Louis after Hurricane Katrina and navigating the upheavals of the Covid pandemic—I understand the challenges of starting over, finding stability, and seeking support during times of upheaval. The cumulative grief and trauma from such events highlight the importance of specialized care in the healing process.
My holistic coaching/therapy practice is a combination of ACT, EMDR, Somatic and Emotionally focused therapy with a mindfulness approach.
Are you feeling stuck or uncertain about the next steps in your life or career? Does fear of risk or performance paralysis hold you back? Do you struggle with confidence or find yourself avoiding social situations? Having personally experienced profound life changes—like relocating to St. Louis after Hurricane Katrina and navigating the upheavals of the Covid pandemic—I understand the challenges of starting over, finding stability, and seeking support during times of upheaval. The cumulative grief and trauma from such events highlight the importance of specialized care in the healing process.
(281) 609-3380 View (281) 609-3380
Photo of Alice Pierce, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Alice Pierce
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Saint Louis, MO 63132
I tailor my approach to each client, drawing on modalities including Emotionally Focused, Mindfulness (including Mindful Self Compassion), Cognitive Behavioral, and Attachment Theory.
Do you feel overwhelmed by your life or anxious without knowing exactly why or how to address it? Maybe you worry about what’s next or are stuck in a loop in one of your relationships, repeating the same argument over and over. This could be complicated by ADHD, a life transition, or health challenges. I love helping clients who want to learn about themselves, actively address problems and heal wounds, as well as build skills and develop resilience to create the lives they want. I balance accepting who you are with gently challenging you to grow.
I tailor my approach to each client, drawing on modalities including Emotionally Focused, Mindfulness (including Mindful Self Compassion), Cognitive Behavioral, and Attachment Theory.
Do you feel overwhelmed by your life or anxious without knowing exactly why or how to address it? Maybe you worry about what’s next or are stuck in a loop in one of your relationships, repeating the same argument over and over. This could be complicated by ADHD, a life transition, or health challenges. I love helping clients who want to learn about themselves, actively address problems and heal wounds, as well as build skills and develop resilience to create the lives they want. I balance accepting who you are with gently challenging you to grow.
(314) 936-4641 View (314) 936-4641
Photo of Emily Seligson, MA, PLPC
Emily Seligson
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
She will often draw from elements of DBT, EFT, trauma-informed therapies, and attachment theory in her work with her clients.
Many of us long for genuine connection and safety in relation to ourselves and to others. Sometimes we want to better understand who we are and where we came from, but it can feel daunting to even know where to begin. Other times, we hope for tools and awareness that can enable us to feel more regulated, as we move forward through challenging moments. Whatever it is that brought you here today, Emily considers it an honor to walk alongside you. Through a fostering of safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, she strives to create healthy settings for change, growth, and healing.
She will often draw from elements of DBT, EFT, trauma-informed therapies, and attachment theory in her work with her clients.
Many of us long for genuine connection and safety in relation to ourselves and to others. Sometimes we want to better understand who we are and where we came from, but it can feel daunting to even know where to begin. Other times, we hope for tools and awareness that can enable us to feel more regulated, as we move forward through challenging moments. Whatever it is that brought you here today, Emily considers it an honor to walk alongside you. Through a fostering of safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, she strives to create healthy settings for change, growth, and healing.
(314) 635-9206 View (314) 635-9206
Photo of Nadiia Petrenko, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Nadiia Petrenko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Saint Louis, MO 63110
The “work through” will incorporate EMDR, IFS (parts work), attachment theory ( EFT), ACT, somatic approach - all of which attend to and address patterns on the physiological, emotional, and cognitive levels.
My practice’s focus is attachment and relationship issues, complex/childhood trauma (CPTSD), PTSD, ADHD. I provide individual psychotherapy and couples counselling.
The “work through” will incorporate EMDR, IFS (parts work), attachment theory ( EFT), ACT, somatic approach - all of which attend to and address patterns on the physiological, emotional, and cognitive levels.
My practice’s focus is attachment and relationship issues, complex/childhood trauma (CPTSD), PTSD, ADHD. I provide individual psychotherapy and couples counselling.
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Photo of Katie Killeen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Katie Killeen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
I am certified in Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT) for individuals & couples.
I work with adults and couples who feel stuck. They describe feeling helpless, unworthy, unfulfilled, and anxious. Connection and joy are brief and seem out of reach. They are often exhausted from unmet needs, chronic caretaking, traumatic triggers, and feelings of shame. They want to be known by their partner, friends, and community, tell a new story with their life, nurture a space of inner peace, or return to the love they once felt in their relationship. Emotions can feel overwhelming and chaotic or totally out of reach. They yearn to connect more authentically with their body, their world, and the people in it.
I am certified in Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT) for individuals & couples.
I work with adults and couples who feel stuck. They describe feeling helpless, unworthy, unfulfilled, and anxious. Connection and joy are brief and seem out of reach. They are often exhausted from unmet needs, chronic caretaking, traumatic triggers, and feelings of shame. They want to be known by their partner, friends, and community, tell a new story with their life, nurture a space of inner peace, or return to the love they once felt in their relationship. Emotions can feel overwhelming and chaotic or totally out of reach. They yearn to connect more authentically with their body, their world, and the people in it.
(314) 671-0710 View (314) 671-0710
Photo of Sarah Howell, Licensed Master Social Worker
Sarah Howell
Licensed Master Social Worker
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) for individuals, couples, and families, complemented by Gottman interventions and creative art and expressive techniques.
Are you feeling trapped in a dizzying maze of emotional distress and longing for deeper connections but struggling due to relationship struggles, unresolved trauma, or a loved one’s illness? Whether you're wrestling with the shadows of a difficult past, feeling the sting of relationship trauma, or navigating grief, I would like to walk alongside you. I understand the pain of feeling alone, stuck and craving a deeper connection. Picture yourself escaping the labyrinth of emotional distress and imagine the warmth and safety of a secure connection with yourself & others. Envision a future where you feel safe, secure, loved, & soothed.
My approach is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) for individuals, couples, and families, complemented by Gottman interventions and creative art and expressive techniques.
Are you feeling trapped in a dizzying maze of emotional distress and longing for deeper connections but struggling due to relationship struggles, unresolved trauma, or a loved one’s illness? Whether you're wrestling with the shadows of a difficult past, feeling the sting of relationship trauma, or navigating grief, I would like to walk alongside you. I understand the pain of feeling alone, stuck and craving a deeper connection. Picture yourself escaping the labyrinth of emotional distress and imagine the warmth and safety of a secure connection with yourself & others. Envision a future where you feel safe, secure, loved, & soothed.
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Photo of Amy Goldstein, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT
Amy Goldstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT
6 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
I also have obtained special training in: (CBT), (ART) Accelerated Resolution , (EMDR) Eye movement desensitization, (PMT) Parent Management, ( EFT) Emotional Focused Therapy.
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
I also have obtained special training in: (CBT), (ART) Accelerated Resolution , (EMDR) Eye movement desensitization, (PMT) Parent Management, ( EFT) Emotional Focused Therapy.
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
(636) 577-2397 View (636) 577-2397
Photo of Justin Dodd, Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Justin Dodd
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), currently the leading evidence-based model for couples counseling.
Has your communication as a couple broken down? Maybe emotions like grief or anger are getting in the way of connecting with your partner or friends. You may feel uncertain or anxious what more can be done for a marriage you want badly to work. Perhaps singleness has left you feeling terribly lonely, or a confidential space sounds like a comfort right now. Wherever you are, I'm glad you're here and hanging on. It is often a hard thing to need help. It is often harder still to ask for it. If you feel frustrated, stuck, or hopeless in patterns you want to change, I'm here to help.
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), currently the leading evidence-based model for couples counseling.
Has your communication as a couple broken down? Maybe emotions like grief or anger are getting in the way of connecting with your partner or friends. You may feel uncertain or anxious what more can be done for a marriage you want badly to work. Perhaps singleness has left you feeling terribly lonely, or a confidential space sounds like a comfort right now. Wherever you are, I'm glad you're here and hanging on. It is often a hard thing to need help. It is often harder still to ask for it. If you feel frustrated, stuck, or hopeless in patterns you want to change, I'm here to help.
(314) 582-4216 x7 View (314) 582-4216 x7
Photo of Sophie Pellegrini, MSW, LCSW
Sophie Pellegrini
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have training and experience in sex therapy, EMDR for trauma, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) for couples, and grief therapy.
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about supporting clients as they uncover and connect with their most authentic, grounded selves. I specialize in working with queer, trans, and non-binary folks, with a focus on sexuality, gender, neurodivergence, consensual non-monogamy, and trauma. My clients are often exploring emergent identities, unpacking relational patterns, learning to unmask, and seeking a greater sense of belonging. In our work, we'll get curious about the roots of any challenges you’re facing, the narratives you hold that shape your life, and emotional or behavioral patterns that are impacting you.
I have training and experience in sex therapy, EMDR for trauma, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) for couples, and grief therapy.
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about supporting clients as they uncover and connect with their most authentic, grounded selves. I specialize in working with queer, trans, and non-binary folks, with a focus on sexuality, gender, neurodivergence, consensual non-monogamy, and trauma. My clients are often exploring emergent identities, unpacking relational patterns, learning to unmask, and seeking a greater sense of belonging. In our work, we'll get curious about the roots of any challenges you’re facing, the narratives you hold that shape your life, and emotional or behavioral patterns that are impacting you.
(314) 207-9104 View (314) 207-9104
Photo of McKayla Robinson, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLMFT
McKayla Robinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLMFT
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and other methods to understand these behaviors helps us replace maladaptive thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors with adaptive ones to live a healthy and happy life.
The therapeutic relationship is one of healing and hope. Facilitating that relationship is very important because I understand the value of working with someone not pushing their usually well-intentioned agenda onto your situation. Someone outside our problems who has no investment in how we handle those problems can offer limitless perspective and an abundance of compassion. In addition to being a listening ear, therapists have many resources and tools to help us navigate whatever challenges and changes life throws at us. This is the type of therapist I strive to be.
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and other methods to understand these behaviors helps us replace maladaptive thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors with adaptive ones to live a healthy and happy life.
The therapeutic relationship is one of healing and hope. Facilitating that relationship is very important because I understand the value of working with someone not pushing their usually well-intentioned agenda onto your situation. Someone outside our problems who has no investment in how we handle those problems can offer limitless perspective and an abundance of compassion. In addition to being a listening ear, therapists have many resources and tools to help us navigate whatever challenges and changes life throws at us. This is the type of therapist I strive to be.
(314) 207-9904 View (314) 207-9904
Photo of Michael Diller, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael Diller
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
Specific experience and skills center around facilitating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EFT for couples counseling, and emotional based approaches.
Having 20 + years of experience in the counseling field, I enjoy helping people improve marriage and family relationships, and I am passionate about working alongside individuals to overcome anxiety, depression, ADHD, and sexual addiction. I believe in the importance of a positive client-therapist relationship for making the counseling experience a success. Often, this can happen in a short-term time frame. From a therapeutic perspective, I bring in both Christian principles and psychology into my practice and help identify personal strengths and solutions for creating treatment goals.
Specific experience and skills center around facilitating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EFT for couples counseling, and emotional based approaches.
Having 20 + years of experience in the counseling field, I enjoy helping people improve marriage and family relationships, and I am passionate about working alongside individuals to overcome anxiety, depression, ADHD, and sexual addiction. I believe in the importance of a positive client-therapist relationship for making the counseling experience a success. Often, this can happen in a short-term time frame. From a therapeutic perspective, I bring in both Christian principles and psychology into my practice and help identify personal strengths and solutions for creating treatment goals.
(636) 264-8979 View (636) 264-8979

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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.