Emotionally Focused Therapists in Wilkesboro, NC

Photo of Deborah S Wages, MA, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMHP
Deborah S Wages
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, BC-TMHP
Verified Verified
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Waitlist for new clients
Are you overwhelmed and discombobulated? Do you hope to work on developing healthier habits to stay strong mentally? I am a compassionate, empathetic, life affirming counselor who believes it is my calling to strengthen individuals, couples and families. I work particularly well with children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, social issues and depression. I am trained in a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities which include: Trauma focused-Cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-focused therapy (SFT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), and Theraplay.
Are you overwhelmed and discombobulated? Do you hope to work on developing healthier habits to stay strong mentally? I am a compassionate, empathetic, life affirming counselor who believes it is my calling to strengthen individuals, couples and families. I work particularly well with children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, social issues and depression. I am trained in a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities which include: Trauma focused-Cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-focused therapy (SFT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), and Theraplay.
(336) 396-2090 x601 View (336) 396-2090 x601
Photo of Cynthia Kilby-Queen - Cynthia Kilby-Queen/Hope and Light Counseling, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, NCC, CADC, Counselor
Cynthia Kilby-Queen/Hope and Light Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, NCC, CADC
Verified Verified
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Welcome, my name is Cynthia, and I am glad you are taking steps to take care of yourself! I am honored to partner with God to provide mental health, substance/alcohol, and Christian counseling to women ages 18 and above. Helping women recognize their inner strength, overcome, and thrive beyond such issues as trauma, abuse, addictions, and tragedy is a calling in my life. My experiences and research show that being spiritually well improves our mental, emotional, and physical wellness. If you a woman struggling with the past, the present, or the season's changing negatively affecting your mental health, please reach out for support.
Welcome, my name is Cynthia, and I am glad you are taking steps to take care of yourself! I am honored to partner with God to provide mental health, substance/alcohol, and Christian counseling to women ages 18 and above. Helping women recognize their inner strength, overcome, and thrive beyond such issues as trauma, abuse, addictions, and tragedy is a calling in my life. My experiences and research show that being spiritually well improves our mental, emotional, and physical wellness. If you a woman struggling with the past, the present, or the season's changing negatively affecting your mental health, please reach out for support.
(336) 818-9238 x100 View (336) 818-9238 x100
Photo of Wanda Anthony Burger, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
Wanda Anthony Burger
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMC, CCS, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
Hello! At some point in life we find a need to talk to someone. Grief, loss, trauma, adjustment, relational issues are a few areas we can face. My specialties include: grief, trauma: civilian/military PTSD/PTSS, stress, substance abuse; Wellness Groups, Growing through Grief , prevention & early intervention. Boon and Katie, registered,therapy dogs, may join sessions. Boon began working at 9 weeks. In 2016 I added Military Trauma (CCMC) Certified Military Counselor Certificate. It was an honor to complete this certificate and begin working with our wonderful veterans and families. Come visit us at The Therapy House.
(336) 344-7187 View (336) 344-7187
Photo of Lesley Icenhour, LCSW, LCASA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lesley Icenhour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wilkesboro, NC 28697  (Online Only)
Life asks a lot from us. How can we thrive in our lives, work and relationships in fulfilling, whole-hearted ways? We all occasionally feel blocked or frustrated and benefit from support that can connect us with our potential. You are deserving of purpose, meaning and joy in your life and we will work together to discover what your unique needs are so that you can live in closer alignment with your goals and values. I specialize in serving adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, domestic and/or sexual violence as well as substance use and addiction.
Life asks a lot from us. How can we thrive in our lives, work and relationships in fulfilling, whole-hearted ways? We all occasionally feel blocked or frustrated and benefit from support that can connect us with our potential. You are deserving of purpose, meaning and joy in your life and we will work together to discover what your unique needs are so that you can live in closer alignment with your goals and values. I specialize in serving adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, challenging life transitions, domestic and/or sexual violence as well as substance use and addiction.
(336) 849-5653 View (336) 849-5653

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Sterling, LCMHC
Jennifer Sterling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Moravian Falls, NC 28654
Hello, I'm Jennifer Sterling, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and registered addictions specialist with a doctorate degree specializing in relationships. My passion lies in assisting individuals to overcome emotional obstacles, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives, and fostering healthier connections with others. I have found the clients who connect best with my style of therapy are individuals motivated to discover the root causes of their stress, anxiety, addictive behaviors, and relationship challenges.
Hello, I'm Jennifer Sterling, a licensed clinical mental health counselor and registered addictions specialist with a doctorate degree specializing in relationships. My passion lies in assisting individuals to overcome emotional obstacles, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives, and fostering healthier connections with others. I have found the clients who connect best with my style of therapy are individuals motivated to discover the root causes of their stress, anxiety, addictive behaviors, and relationship challenges.
(980) 385-8510 View (980) 385-8510
Photo of Trey Greene, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trey Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
My top priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment for anyone struggling with their identity, experiences, or beliefs in addition to other mental health concerns. I work with a variety of issues with a focus on PTSD, depression, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, relationship difficulties, spirituality and/or religious trauma in addition to other concerns. I am especially passionate about work with anyone seeking a supportive space to heal, discover who they are, or navigate existential concerns, welcoming those of all beliefs in finding connection, hope, and peace.
(704) 419-8509 View (704) 419-8509
Photo of Robert Willis - CareNet Counseling Northwest Region, LMFT, LPC, LCAS, LCSWA, Marriage & Family Therapist
CareNet Counseling Northwest Region
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LCAS, LCSWA
Verified Verified
North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
CareNet Counseling improves the health of the mind, body, spirit and community through spiritually-integrated counseling, psychotherapy, research and education. We are here to help our clients restore and maintain mental wellness. There is no real health without mental health.
CareNet Counseling improves the health of the mind, body, spirit and community through spiritually-integrated counseling, psychotherapy, research and education. We are here to help our clients restore and maintain mental wellness. There is no real health without mental health.
(336) 844-4494 x1 View (336) 844-4494 x1

Online Therapists

Photo of Nancy Long, FNP-BC
Nancy Long
FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269  (Online Only)
My treatment methods include emotionally focused, humanistic, and coaching approaches.
As a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, I completed my graduate degree at Savannah University in Savannah, Georgia. With over six years of experience, I have dedicated my career to treating and caring for patients with ADD and ADHD. My practice also encompasses a wide range of services, including behavioral health, primary care, and internal medicine.
My treatment methods include emotionally focused, humanistic, and coaching approaches.
As a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, I completed my graduate degree at Savannah University in Savannah, Georgia. With over six years of experience, I have dedicated my career to treating and caring for patients with ADD and ADHD. My practice also encompasses a wide range of services, including behavioral health, primary care, and internal medicine.
(540) 787-3649 View (540) 787-3649
Photo of Mallika Bush, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mallika Bush
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weaverville, NC 28787
I use EFT and SCT frameworks for couples and individuals.
I coach couples to build a strong foundation for a high functioning and successful marriage! Using a blend of action-oriented skill building and learning to see your relationship in a new way, I support you and your fiancé to find more joy and peace in your relationship. We work on communication, goal setting, creating a foundation of trust and building healthy interdependence. This kind of work is for you if: you’re ready for more authentic connection; you’re ready for deeper intimacy and trust; you’re ready to feel desired and respected; you are ready to build a strong, lasting and satisfying marriage!
I use EFT and SCT frameworks for couples and individuals.
I coach couples to build a strong foundation for a high functioning and successful marriage! Using a blend of action-oriented skill building and learning to see your relationship in a new way, I support you and your fiancé to find more joy and peace in your relationship. We work on communication, goal setting, creating a foundation of trust and building healthy interdependence. This kind of work is for you if: you’re ready for more authentic connection; you’re ready for deeper intimacy and trust; you’re ready to feel desired and respected; you are ready to build a strong, lasting and satisfying marriage!
(828) 373-2722 View (828) 373-2722
Photo of Megan Linette Williams, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Megan Linette Williams
Counselor, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Swannanoa, NC 28778
Through traditional therapy, meditation, body awareness, breathing exercises, art, play, and EFT we begin the process of healing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and emotional distress.
Sometimes life entangles us along the way and it's held in our bodies in the form of mental distress. I believe that every person has their own innate light to self-healing but may need some support along the way. I find it a great privilege to walk with clients on the personal journey of healing. I work especially well with children doing play therapy and art, teens facing anxiety, trauma, and/or adversity, adults with trauma and/or anxiety ,and those who just don't quite fit cultural norms.
Through traditional therapy, meditation, body awareness, breathing exercises, art, play, and EFT we begin the process of healing anxiety, depression, PTSD, and emotional distress.
Sometimes life entangles us along the way and it's held in our bodies in the form of mental distress. I believe that every person has their own innate light to self-healing but may need some support along the way. I find it a great privilege to walk with clients on the personal journey of healing. I work especially well with children doing play therapy and art, teens facing anxiety, trauma, and/or adversity, adults with trauma and/or anxiety ,and those who just don't quite fit cultural norms.
(828) 575-0641 View (828) 575-0641
Photo of Danielle Henderson - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Winston-Salem, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Winston-Salem
Counselor
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27104
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.
(336) 537-1362 View (336) 537-1362
Photo of Ashley Moser, LMFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Moser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My sessions are typically active, directive, and emotionally focused.
I am the owner and therapist behind Next Steps Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. With a focus on anxiety, life transitions, and relationships, I specialize in disordered eating, body image, and helping families support each other. For 15 years, I have provided therapy in multiple settings, including outpatient, PHP/IOP, community mental health, and private practice. I spent ten years of my career in clinical and administrative leadership but felt a calling to return to direct service in response to the current mental health crisis. I opened a virtual private practice and have loved being able to return to therapy and direct care.
My sessions are typically active, directive, and emotionally focused.
I am the owner and therapist behind Next Steps Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. With a focus on anxiety, life transitions, and relationships, I specialize in disordered eating, body image, and helping families support each other. For 15 years, I have provided therapy in multiple settings, including outpatient, PHP/IOP, community mental health, and private practice. I spent ten years of my career in clinical and administrative leadership but felt a calling to return to direct service in response to the current mental health crisis. I opened a virtual private practice and have loved being able to return to therapy and direct care.
(704) 529-9948 View (704) 529-9948
Photo of Kristyn Bly - DayBreak Counseling, PLLC, MACC, LCMHC
DayBreak Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MACC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with expertise in working with individual adults and adolescent girls, couples, and families with a diverse range of needs. It is my life's work to collaborate with and support you as you work to achieve your desired goals. I am proficient in trauma and marital therapy as a result of extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy ( EFT). My strengths are in the areas of patience, compassion, warmth, depth and authenticity awakening hope for my clients as well as lasting and positive transformation.
I am a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with expertise in working with individual adults and adolescent girls, couples, and families with a diverse range of needs. It is my life's work to collaborate with and support you as you work to achieve your desired goals. I am proficient in trauma and marital therapy as a result of extensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy ( EFT). My strengths are in the areas of patience, compassion, warmth, depth and authenticity awakening hope for my clients as well as lasting and positive transformation.
(980) 447-2581 View (980) 447-2581
Photo of Beth Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805
My clients often overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life changes with the support of emotionally focused therapy.
Way to go about taking the first step to start therapy! It's tough to feel any balance. Stressors weigh on you and may even add to your anxiety and depression symptoms. Perhaps you may be struggling and at a loss for what to do and how to do it. I can support you to find the best strategies to tackle these stressors and get back to balance despite the many things we aren't able to change in the world now. I've spent many years working with individuals to navigate their symptoms to work together to make daily life feel more balanced. I have extensive training and experience to treat the whole person with a mindful approach.
My clients often overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life changes with the support of emotionally focused therapy.
Way to go about taking the first step to start therapy! It's tough to feel any balance. Stressors weigh on you and may even add to your anxiety and depression symptoms. Perhaps you may be struggling and at a loss for what to do and how to do it. I can support you to find the best strategies to tackle these stressors and get back to balance despite the many things we aren't able to change in the world now. I've spent many years working with individuals to navigate their symptoms to work together to make daily life feel more balanced. I have extensive training and experience to treat the whole person with a mindful approach.
(828) 481-8686 View (828) 481-8686
Photo of Michelle L Parrom, MBA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle L Parrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Concord, NC 28025  (Online Only)
Emotional Focused Therapy ( EFT) Training.
Working with complex couples, those dealing with major relationship issues like infidelity, infertility, illness, grief, family conflict, parenting issues, or contemplating divorce, are my passion. I take a non-judgmental stance that allows me to focus on the relationship as my client, while not taking sides. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, addiction, trauma, or other mental health conditions, I can help support you, while teaching coping mechanisms to create a healthy balance in your life. I apply a systemic approach when working with couples, families and individuals.
Emotional Focused Therapy ( EFT) Training.
Working with complex couples, those dealing with major relationship issues like infidelity, infertility, illness, grief, family conflict, parenting issues, or contemplating divorce, are my passion. I take a non-judgmental stance that allows me to focus on the relationship as my client, while not taking sides. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, addiction, trauma, or other mental health conditions, I can help support you, while teaching coping mechanisms to create a healthy balance in your life. I apply a systemic approach when working with couples, families and individuals.
(704) 209-7532 View (704) 209-7532
Photo of Breta M. Collins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Breta M. Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
I am also extensively trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Life and love can be messy. Our 24/7 world can make otherwise successful people get out of balance in their lives and in their relationships. The good news is: quality, research-based counseling works for couples and individuals. Together, we can help you and/or your relationship feel better.
I am also extensively trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Life and love can be messy. Our 24/7 world can make otherwise successful people get out of balance in their lives and in their relationships. The good news is: quality, research-based counseling works for couples and individuals. Together, we can help you and/or your relationship feel better.
(704) 276-6626 View (704) 276-6626
Photo of Alexandria Brintnall - Dogwood Counseling Services, LCMHC, Counselor
Dogwood Counseling Services
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally, I am working to obtain certification in the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, to assist couples in better understanding one another, in both communication and intimacy.
I enjoy the opportunity to offer clients a trusting and safe environment to process thoughts, recent life events and changes as well as more specific interpersonal challenges and concerns. Additionally, I can provide a non-judgmental and compassionate approach for clients that are seeking a warm, yet goal-directed, therapeutic experience. I work with partners wanting support around communication, premarital work, intimacy, and staying connected through difficult emotional seasons and transitions.
Additionally, I am working to obtain certification in the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, to assist couples in better understanding one another, in both communication and intimacy.
I enjoy the opportunity to offer clients a trusting and safe environment to process thoughts, recent life events and changes as well as more specific interpersonal challenges and concerns. Additionally, I can provide a non-judgmental and compassionate approach for clients that are seeking a warm, yet goal-directed, therapeutic experience. I work with partners wanting support around communication, premarital work, intimacy, and staying connected through difficult emotional seasons and transitions.
(336) 920-8024 View (336) 920-8024
Photo of Jake Ottman, MA, LCMHCA
Jake Ottman
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lewisville, NC 27023
My work is influenced by my training in the Gottman and EFT models, as well as Relational Life Therapy and the Differentiation Model.
Relationships can be a driver for personal growth or a stumbling block that keeps us from reaching our potential. I help stuck couples and individuals identify and change dysfunctional patterns of relating and learn new habits that promote deeper intimacy and growth. I specialize in helping my clients work through affairs, parenthood and empty nest transitions, emotional intimacy issues, and unhealthy communication habits.
My work is influenced by my training in the Gottman and EFT models, as well as Relational Life Therapy and the Differentiation Model.
Relationships can be a driver for personal growth or a stumbling block that keeps us from reaching our potential. I help stuck couples and individuals identify and change dysfunctional patterns of relating and learn new habits that promote deeper intimacy and growth. I specialize in helping my clients work through affairs, parenthood and empty nest transitions, emotional intimacy issues, and unhealthy communication habits.
(336) 933-6371 View (336) 933-6371
Photo of David Von Kohorn, LMFT, CSAT-S, C-EFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Von Kohorn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, C-EFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
My style is best described as warm, attentive and curious; and as a trauma specialist I use, and/or am certified in, the following models: Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP); Intensive Short-term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP); and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
My primary focus in therapy – with individuals, couples or families – is to support and facilitate my clients in their journey to a deeper understanding and awareness of themselves. This goal is best achieved, I believe, by encouraging self-acceptance and insight, and by forming with each client a safe and nonjudgmental relationship. It is within this alliance that, together, we can explore, understand, and begin to gently dismantle the obstacles and unproductive patterns of coping that, although once useful in dealing with painful life events or childhood relationships, may now be keeping them from enjoying a more fulfilling life.
My style is best described as warm, attentive and curious; and as a trauma specialist I use, and/or am certified in, the following models: Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP); Intensive Short-term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP); and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
My primary focus in therapy – with individuals, couples or families – is to support and facilitate my clients in their journey to a deeper understanding and awareness of themselves. This goal is best achieved, I believe, by encouraging self-acceptance and insight, and by forming with each client a safe and nonjudgmental relationship. It is within this alliance that, together, we can explore, understand, and begin to gently dismantle the obstacles and unproductive patterns of coping that, although once useful in dealing with painful life events or childhood relationships, may now be keeping them from enjoying a more fulfilling life.
(828) 708-7590 View (828) 708-7590
Photo of Christopher M Mayer, MA, LMFT, CBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher M Mayer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CBA
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28805
I offer low-fee counseling for people looking to heal their pain and transforms their lives. People who come to me find a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment where they are free to work through difficulties with someone capable of really listening, holding space, and who sees them and the struggles they are living with. It is my passion to help guide people through the courageous process of healing the past and moving forward into greater health and well-being. I offer sessions both in-person and through telemedicine.
I offer low-fee counseling for people looking to heal their pain and transforms their lives. People who come to me find a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment where they are free to work through difficulties with someone capable of really listening, holding space, and who sees them and the struggles they are living with. It is my passion to help guide people through the courageous process of healing the past and moving forward into greater health and well-being. I offer sessions both in-person and through telemedicine.
(415) 688-2031 View (415) 688-2031

See more therapy options for Wilkesboro

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.