Emotionally Focused Therapists in Columbus, OH

Photo of Matthew Harmon - Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Columbus, Counselor
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.
(380) 205-8778 View (380) 205-8778
Photo of J Eric Gentile, Licensed Professional Counselor
J Eric Gentile
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Only
Trained in child-centered therapy, emotionally focused couple therapy, gestalt therapy, pastoral counseling, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I’m adept at coordinating with other professionals, including doctors, attorneys, and educators, to provide integrated care for children, adolescents, and families. With a background in business and marketing, I bring strong organizational and leadership skills to my work. As a proud father, I am deeply committed to helping families thrive through guidance,
Trained in child-centered therapy, emotionally focused couple therapy, gestalt therapy, pastoral counseling, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I’m adept at coordinating with other professionals, including doctors, attorneys, and educators, to provide integrated care for children, adolescents, and families. With a background in business and marketing, I bring strong organizational and leadership skills to my work. As a proud father, I am deeply committed to helping families thrive through guidance,
(614) 983-3177 View (614) 983-3177
Photo of Katie Rapson-Stecula, Licensed Professional Clinical, LPCC, LPC, LAC
Katie Rapson-Stecula
Licensed Professional Clinical, LPCC, LPC, LAC
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219
For couples, I draw from Emotionally Focused and Gottman techniques.
I am independently licensed as an LPCC in the state of Ohio and an LPC and LAC in the state of Colorado. I am happy to work with individuals 12 years of age and up, including couples and caregivers, on a multitude of issues related to mental health and addiction. My professional orientation is eclectic and I draw heavily from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential orientations for both conceptualizing client concerns as well as for effective interventions.
For couples, I draw from Emotionally Focused and Gottman techniques.
I am independently licensed as an LPCC in the state of Ohio and an LPC and LAC in the state of Colorado. I am happy to work with individuals 12 years of age and up, including couples and caregivers, on a multitude of issues related to mental health and addiction. My professional orientation is eclectic and I draw heavily from Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Existential orientations for both conceptualizing client concerns as well as for effective interventions.
(614) 963-3126 View (614) 963-3126
Photo of Alex Yeboah Sasu, Counselor, CT
Alex Yeboah Sasu
Counselor, CT
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as: Gottman Method for healthy relationships, Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples and families, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for coping skills and mindset shifts and EMDR for trauma processing and healing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure why your relationships are not working? Do you feel distressed and like you can't get to the root of the problem? I work with a diverse range of clients, including teenagers, young adults, adults, couples, and families. I'm committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space for each client to explore their concerns and goals. I specialize in supporting clients navigating the following: anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, relationship challenges, trauma, and family mediation, as they work toward healing!
My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as: Gottman Method for healthy relationships, Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples and families, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for coping skills and mindset shifts and EMDR for trauma processing and healing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure why your relationships are not working? Do you feel distressed and like you can't get to the root of the problem? I work with a diverse range of clients, including teenagers, young adults, adults, couples, and families. I'm committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental space for each client to explore their concerns and goals. I specialize in supporting clients navigating the following: anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, relationship challenges, trauma, and family mediation, as they work toward healing!
(614) 705-0350 x1 View (614) 705-0350 x1
Photo of April Cunningham, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
April Cunningham
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Columbus, OH 43214
I am working towards certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am a cis, Queer, white, neurodivergent, partnered woman with children. I live in a non-disabled, straight/thin body, I work with individuals and romantic relationships. I see all types of clients in my practice. I specialize in work with the LGBTQIA+ population. I work with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, neurodivergence, coming out, identity changes, and relationship concerns (relationship repair, amicable separation, communication, co-parenting, managing transition/identity changes, kink, and ENM), I offer counseling as well as professional supervision and consultation.
I am working towards certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am a cis, Queer, white, neurodivergent, partnered woman with children. I live in a non-disabled, straight/thin body, I work with individuals and romantic relationships. I see all types of clients in my practice. I specialize in work with the LGBTQIA+ population. I work with issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, neurodivergence, coming out, identity changes, and relationship concerns (relationship repair, amicable separation, communication, co-parenting, managing transition/identity changes, kink, and ENM), I offer counseling as well as professional supervision and consultation.
(614) 953-5222 View (614) 953-5222
Photo of Deidre Prewitt, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSMFC, LPCC
Deidre Prewitt
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSMFC, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
Over the last decade, I have created a thoughtful collaboration of the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy.
I've dedeicated my career to helping couples in distress heal and thrive. Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Do you find the conflicts between you have gotten worse and feel as though there is no resolution? Do you want to rekindle the physical and emotional intimacy in your relationship? I am passionate about helping couples in distress find hope and healing, even when they may feel all hope is lost.
Over the last decade, I have created a thoughtful collaboration of the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy.
I've dedeicated my career to helping couples in distress heal and thrive. Do you feel disconnected from your partner? Do you find the conflicts between you have gotten worse and feel as though there is no resolution? Do you want to rekindle the physical and emotional intimacy in your relationship? I am passionate about helping couples in distress find hope and healing, even when they may feel all hope is lost.
(614) 639-3327 View (614) 639-3327
Photo of Therese M Grieco, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Therese M Grieco
Counselor, MA, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
In addition, for couples therapy, I am Gottman Level III Trained and trained in Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT) through Externship and Core Skills.
Life is hard AND there is hope! As my clients work through their issues/concerns, it is a joy and honor to walk alongside them and show them that hope. I have been extensively trained in working with Perinatal Mood Disorders. Since 2013, I have worked with many women as they struggled and then overcame their struggle. I have a heart for helping people to integrate all grief/loss into their life in a positive way, while still feeling their feelings and being real. In regard to spiritual abuse, I have great empathy for those who have trusted and then been so deeply hurt by others.
In addition, for couples therapy, I am Gottman Level III Trained and trained in Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT) through Externship and Core Skills.
Life is hard AND there is hope! As my clients work through their issues/concerns, it is a joy and honor to walk alongside them and show them that hope. I have been extensively trained in working with Perinatal Mood Disorders. Since 2013, I have worked with many women as they struggled and then overcame their struggle. I have a heart for helping people to integrate all grief/loss into their life in a positive way, while still feeling their feelings and being real. In regard to spiritual abuse, I have great empathy for those who have trusted and then been so deeply hurt by others.
(614) 825-3979 View (614) 825-3979
Photo of Britni Karst, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Britni Karst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
5 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43201
I utilize Attachment Theory for Couples , Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Method Marriage Therapy, Family Systems Therapy.
Your relationship is not what you want it to be. The two of you constantly struggle with miscommunication, which leads to conflict and arguing. Issues never get resolved, and both of you end up feeling undervalued, unheard, and unloved. Intimacy is absent and you are desperate to get it back. The space between you and your partner seems to grow each day, and mending the torn relationship has started to feel hopeless. You ask yourself, “What happened? I did everything I was ‘supposed’ to do, so why do I feel so broken?"
I utilize Attachment Theory for Couples , Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Method Marriage Therapy, Family Systems Therapy.
Your relationship is not what you want it to be. The two of you constantly struggle with miscommunication, which leads to conflict and arguing. Issues never get resolved, and both of you end up feeling undervalued, unheard, and unloved. Intimacy is absent and you are desperate to get it back. The space between you and your partner seems to grow each day, and mending the torn relationship has started to feel hopeless. You ask yourself, “What happened? I did everything I was ‘supposed’ to do, so why do I feel so broken?"
(380) 205-3035 View (380) 205-3035
Photo of Amanda Miller, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, IMFT
Amanda Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, IMFT
Online Only
I draw from EFT, Gottman tools, and nervous system support to rebuild trust and connection.
You’re doing your best—but under the surface, it’s getting harder to hold it all together. Maybe you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating. Maybe you’ve lost touch with your sense of peace or purpose. Or maybe your relationship feels distant—like you’re parenting, surviving, and trying not to say the wrong thing. You still care deeply… but connection feels out of reach.
I draw from EFT, Gottman tools, and nervous system support to rebuild trust and connection.
You’re doing your best—but under the surface, it’s getting harder to hold it all together. Maybe you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in patterns that keep repeating. Maybe you’ve lost touch with your sense of peace or purpose. Or maybe your relationship feels distant—like you’re parenting, surviving, and trying not to say the wrong thing. You still care deeply… but connection feels out of reach.
(380) 204-9667 View (380) 204-9667
Photo of Adam Clevenger, Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, CST
Adam Clevenger
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, CST
11 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221
I have advanced training in emotionally focused therapy ( EFT) to work with relationships.
I (they/them) am a mental health counselor, and an AASECT certified sex therapist. I prefer to build genuine relationships with my clients, emphasizing teamwork and encouraging your active participation in the counseling process. I'll welcome your humor and shared laughter while helping you to harness inner strengths, self-compassion, and newly developed skills to overcome the obstacles impacting your personal growth. I will bring a trauma informed lens and anti-oppression values to our work together and will trust you as the 'expert' of your own lived experience to help identify realistic solutions to life's challenges.
I have advanced training in emotionally focused therapy ( EFT) to work with relationships.
I (they/them) am a mental health counselor, and an AASECT certified sex therapist. I prefer to build genuine relationships with my clients, emphasizing teamwork and encouraging your active participation in the counseling process. I'll welcome your humor and shared laughter while helping you to harness inner strengths, self-compassion, and newly developed skills to overcome the obstacles impacting your personal growth. I will bring a trauma informed lens and anti-oppression values to our work together and will trust you as the 'expert' of your own lived experience to help identify realistic solutions to life's challenges.
(614) 618-4658 View (614) 618-4658
Photo of Breanna Horton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LICDC
Breanna Horton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LICDC
Online Only
For couples, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) to build stronger emotional bonds.
Feeling stuck in your relationship or overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or life changes? You’re not alone. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or with your partner, I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space where your story is heard and valued. Together, we’ll explore what’s really going on beneath the surface and work on practical tools to help you improve communication, manage emotions, and find healing. If you’re ready for meaningful change, you can book a no-pressure consultation through my website whenever you feel ready to take that first step.
For couples, I use Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) to build stronger emotional bonds.
Feeling stuck in your relationship or overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or life changes? You’re not alone. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or with your partner, I offer a compassionate, judgment-free space where your story is heard and valued. Together, we’ll explore what’s really going on beneath the surface and work on practical tools to help you improve communication, manage emotions, and find healing. If you’re ready for meaningful change, you can book a no-pressure consultation through my website whenever you feel ready to take that first step.
(740) 921-0947 View (740) 921-0947
Photo of Brad Unruh, Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LMFT
Brad Unruh
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I have advanced training in Internal Family Systems and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am trained to target emotional experiences to activate internal healing and external connection. I assist couples by facilitating an environment that safely moves folks towards security in self and towards one another in vulnerability so that bonding can replace the need for self-preservation. With individuals, I welcome all parts of each person as one establishes security in and expansion of self which helps parts of self recognize: "parts cope, self heals." I view people as "stuck" and not "sick," and therefore I believe just as there is a healer in me, there is a healer in you.
I have advanced training in Internal Family Systems and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am trained to target emotional experiences to activate internal healing and external connection. I assist couples by facilitating an environment that safely moves folks towards security in self and towards one another in vulnerability so that bonding can replace the need for self-preservation. With individuals, I welcome all parts of each person as one establishes security in and expansion of self which helps parts of self recognize: "parts cope, self heals." I view people as "stuck" and not "sick," and therefore I believe just as there is a healer in me, there is a healer in you.
(614) 368-0961 View (614) 368-0961
Photo of Reggie Pine McCloskey, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, SEP
Reggie Pine McCloskey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, SEP
Columbus, OH 43221
I'm a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and utilize parts work, narrative therapy, attachment-based, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method.
Most of my clients want something different than traditional cognitive therapy. I'm often a good fit for queer and neurodivergent clients, those who've had negative experiences with therapy in the past, and folks who often feel like they don't fit in. I work with individuals and with relationships, of all configurations including ENM/CNM, and monogamous, as well as folx navigating the impacts of trauma, C-PTSD, anxiety, loss, burnout, and existential dread.
I'm a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and utilize parts work, narrative therapy, attachment-based, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method.
Most of my clients want something different than traditional cognitive therapy. I'm often a good fit for queer and neurodivergent clients, those who've had negative experiences with therapy in the past, and folks who often feel like they don't fit in. I work with individuals and with relationships, of all configurations including ENM/CNM, and monogamous, as well as folx navigating the impacts of trauma, C-PTSD, anxiety, loss, burnout, and existential dread.
(614) 808-8287 x109 View (614) 808-8287 x109
Photo of Sarah Newcomer, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, IMFT, LMFT, CST
Sarah Newcomer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, IMFT, LMFT, CST
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilize evidence-based Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, backed by science.
7/16 Taking clients on a case by case basis, please email for more information. I have limited sliding fee slots available. Drifting apart from your partner, stuck in the same arguments, or feeling disconnected in the bedroom? You’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to stay this way. As an Independent Marriage & Family Therapists certified in Sex Therapy, I specialize in helping partners break free from relationship ruts and rediscover the closeness they crave.
I utilize evidence-based Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, backed by science.
7/16 Taking clients on a case by case basis, please email for more information. I have limited sliding fee slots available. Drifting apart from your partner, stuck in the same arguments, or feeling disconnected in the bedroom? You’re not alone, and it doesn’t have to stay this way. As an Independent Marriage & Family Therapists certified in Sex Therapy, I specialize in helping partners break free from relationship ruts and rediscover the closeness they crave.
(614) 698-1226 View (614) 698-1226
Photo of Quanishia Gibson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Quanishia Gibson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Columbus, OH 43206
I also enjoy integrating Emotionally Focused Therapy, Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Therapy and more into practice for personalized treatment and interventions.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with mental and emotional health issues or relational issues. If you are struggling with self-esteem/self-worth, the aftereffects of emotional abuse, a breakup/divorce, trauma, or relationship disturbances with a spouse or family member, there is hope. I have training in providing clinical diagnoses for mental health, couples counseling, family therapy, psychological first aid and trauma support. If you are looking to improve your mental health, "get back to yourself", and/or break cycles in the way you navigate relationships I am here to assist you through the process.
I also enjoy integrating Emotionally Focused Therapy, Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Therapy and more into practice for personalized treatment and interventions.
I work with individuals, couples, and families who are dealing with mental and emotional health issues or relational issues. If you are struggling with self-esteem/self-worth, the aftereffects of emotional abuse, a breakup/divorce, trauma, or relationship disturbances with a spouse or family member, there is hope. I have training in providing clinical diagnoses for mental health, couples counseling, family therapy, psychological first aid and trauma support. If you are looking to improve your mental health, "get back to yourself", and/or break cycles in the way you navigate relationships I am here to assist you through the process.
(380) 208-0671 View (380) 208-0671
Photo of Kim Park, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Kim Park
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I utilize EMDR, the Gottman Method, EFT, IFS and previously worked as a facilitator, leading couples dealing with infidelity through a 12-step psycho-educational recovery program.
You are worthy of love, respect, and belonging. Your life is inestimably valuable. It would be my honor to help you explore your feelings within a safe, supportive space utilizing evidence-based tools, like EMDR, the Gottman method, and Internal Family Systems. Many of us grew up in environments where we had to suppress our emotions, leading to feelings of hopelessness and isolation. You are not alone. Connection, understanding, and support are vital to restoring your well-being. I am here to acknowledge your experience, provide tools and resources, and hold space such that you can heal, renew, and begin to rebuild resilience.
I utilize EMDR, the Gottman Method, EFT, IFS and previously worked as a facilitator, leading couples dealing with infidelity through a 12-step psycho-educational recovery program.
You are worthy of love, respect, and belonging. Your life is inestimably valuable. It would be my honor to help you explore your feelings within a safe, supportive space utilizing evidence-based tools, like EMDR, the Gottman method, and Internal Family Systems. Many of us grew up in environments where we had to suppress our emotions, leading to feelings of hopelessness and isolation. You are not alone. Connection, understanding, and support are vital to restoring your well-being. I am here to acknowledge your experience, provide tools and resources, and hold space such that you can heal, renew, and begin to rebuild resilience.
(380) 220-7475 View (380) 220-7475
Photo of Traci Henson, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Traci Henson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Online Only
I provide the most effective, researched based strategies and interventions based on the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Helping couples be their best selves both individually and together is my passion. I want to know why you may feel “stuck” in your relationship and help figure out the quickest way to move forward with confidence. I know that change can be hard when day-to-day life seems so difficult. At the same time, it also allows us to create our future selves living a happy, vibrant life. What changes are you willing to make to ensure future success?
I provide the most effective, researched based strategies and interventions based on the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Helping couples be their best selves both individually and together is my passion. I want to know why you may feel “stuck” in your relationship and help figure out the quickest way to move forward with confidence. I know that change can be hard when day-to-day life seems so difficult. At the same time, it also allows us to create our future selves living a happy, vibrant life. What changes are you willing to make to ensure future success?
(740) 245-6157 View (740) 245-6157
Photo of Laura Chase, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Laura Chase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221
I use strengths-based and trauma-informed approaches drawing from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness-based interventions, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
For those struggling with low self-esteem, challenging emotions, questions of identity, major life transitions, relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, and suicidality, I am here to support you in finding growth and clarity. Through experience working with diverse populations in community mental health, adolescent crisis care, and the foster care system, I have developed a true appreciation of the cultural impacts on mental health. I seek to help each client reach their goals through understanding how their beliefs, identities, families of origin, and culture shape their unique stories.
I use strengths-based and trauma-informed approaches drawing from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness-based interventions, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
For those struggling with low self-esteem, challenging emotions, questions of identity, major life transitions, relationship problems, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, and suicidality, I am here to support you in finding growth and clarity. Through experience working with diverse populations in community mental health, adolescent crisis care, and the foster care system, I have developed a true appreciation of the cultural impacts on mental health. I seek to help each client reach their goals through understanding how their beliefs, identities, families of origin, and culture shape their unique stories.
(614) 383-8381 View (614) 383-8381
Photo of Krista Rush Sisterhen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Krista Rush Sisterhen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240
It takes a lot of courage to seek help when things aren’t going well. I understand. You want to talk with someone who can help you work through a challenging time with compassion, skill and respect - someone you can trust.
It takes a lot of courage to seek help when things aren’t going well. I understand. You want to talk with someone who can help you work through a challenging time with compassion, skill and respect - someone you can trust.
(614) 802-5513 View (614) 802-5513
Photo of Alicia McDonald, Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, CCATP, CSTIP
Alicia McDonald
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, CCATP, CSTIP
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Using approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy, I help my clients set meaningful goals and move toward the life and relationships they want.
I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, and challenges related to sex and sexuality. I also support those exploring gender identity, members of the LGBTQ community and men. Whether in traditional, or ethically non-monogamous relationships I will help strengthen communication, deepen intimacy, and rebuild trust.
Using approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy, I help my clients set meaningful goals and move toward the life and relationships they want.
I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, and challenges related to sex and sexuality. I also support those exploring gender identity, members of the LGBTQ community and men. Whether in traditional, or ethically non-monogamous relationships I will help strengthen communication, deepen intimacy, and rebuild trust.
(380) 205-0124 View (380) 205-0124

See more therapy options for Columbus

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.