Emotionally Focused Therapists in Northampton, PA

Photo of Kathleen Martinez, MA , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
My ideal client struggles with Anxiety, Depression, Eating Disorders, Trauma, and/or related conditions. They are motivated for change or at least open to the possibility of change. They are open to feedback and willing to lean into the therapeutic process. They do not need to have clear goals for the therapeutic process right away but are willing to work to identify these goals in the treatment process. They would want to improve their life in some way, or even just their relationship with themselves.
(717) 987-7699 View (717) 987-7699
Photo of Meredith Ward, LSW , MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meredith Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW , MSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
My ideal client struggles with self-esteem, anxiety, and/or neurodivergence. They need reassurance, reframing of insecurities, support, and perhaps encouragement to advocate for themselves. Through therapy, they plan to achieve greater self-confidence, independence, and satisfaction with life. They may want a second opinion on their questions and troubles, perhaps due to societal invalidation, sexism, homophobia, and racism.
My ideal client struggles with self-esteem, anxiety, and/or neurodivergence. They need reassurance, reframing of insecurities, support, and perhaps encouragement to advocate for themselves. Through therapy, they plan to achieve greater self-confidence, independence, and satisfaction with life. They may want a second opinion on their questions and troubles, perhaps due to societal invalidation, sexism, homophobia, and racism.
(717) 640-3047 View (717) 640-3047
Photo of Kimberly A Woodling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly A Woodling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
Kimberly Woodling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who utilizes insight and emotion-oriented approaches to assist patients experiencing various psychological and social challenges. Kim believes that breakthroughs and enhancements to overall relational, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning will occur as a person increases their self-awareness, and acquaints themselves with their full range emotions, contradictory feelings, interpersonal patterns, and defenses. She helps her patients scratch beneath their surface to explore unmet expectations, and unproductive patterns of behavior that keep them stuck and unsatisfied. Kim views the therapeutic process as a personal "journey" and places a strong emphasis on developing a trusting relationship with her patients, which she deems as vital to growth and symptom reduction. Kim believes in every person’s ability to live successful, fulfilling lives. Her sessions are laid back, relaxed, and she can assist patients in finding the humor or silver lining in difficult situations. She is passionate about empowering individuals, and helping them recognize their own strengths and abilities to cope with stress and challenges.
Kimberly Woodling is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who utilizes insight and emotion-oriented approaches to assist patients experiencing various psychological and social challenges. Kim believes that breakthroughs and enhancements to overall relational, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive functioning will occur as a person increases their self-awareness, and acquaints themselves with their full range emotions, contradictory feelings, interpersonal patterns, and defenses. She helps her patients scratch beneath their surface to explore unmet expectations, and unproductive patterns of behavior that keep them stuck and unsatisfied. Kim views the therapeutic process as a personal "journey" and places a strong emphasis on developing a trusting relationship with her patients, which she deems as vital to growth and symptom reduction. Kim believes in every person’s ability to live successful, fulfilling lives. Her sessions are laid back, relaxed, and she can assist patients in finding the humor or silver lining in difficult situations. She is passionate about empowering individuals, and helping them recognize their own strengths and abilities to cope with stress and challenges.
(484) 866-8099 View (484) 866-8099
Photo of Mengyuan Wang, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mengyuan Wang
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
Mengyuan Wang is a Resident Clinician who has 2 years of experience interning and working in the mental health field. She is experienced in cultivating self-compassion and increasing psychological flexibility in her clients. Mengyuan specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, anger issues, and major life transitions.
Mengyuan Wang is a Resident Clinician who has 2 years of experience interning and working in the mental health field. She is experienced in cultivating self-compassion and increasing psychological flexibility in her clients. Mengyuan specializes in anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, anger issues, and major life transitions.
(484) 559-8088 View (484) 559-8088
Photo of Lindsay Bartholomew, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsay Bartholomew
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
Lindsay Bartholomew is a Master's Level Clinician who is working towards gaining her licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. She has 3 years of experience providing therapeutic care to children, adolescents, adults, and couples seeking help with depression/anxiety, trauma, stress, ADHD, and self-esteem issues. Lindsay has also worked in a school-based setting working with students and school faculty on a variety of school issues. Lindsay completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Penn State University and received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rosemont College.
Lindsay Bartholomew is a Master's Level Clinician who is working towards gaining her licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. She has 3 years of experience providing therapeutic care to children, adolescents, adults, and couples seeking help with depression/anxiety, trauma, stress, ADHD, and self-esteem issues. Lindsay has also worked in a school-based setting working with students and school faculty on a variety of school issues. Lindsay completed her Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Penn State University and received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Rosemont College.
(484) 715-8281 View (484) 715-8281
Photo of Numra Yaqub, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Numra Yaqub
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton, PA 18067
At some point in their life, an individual may struggle to cope with overwhelming challenges, ranging from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, intrusive thoughts, to trauma or emotional dysregulation. My goal is to equip individuals with a plethora of tools in order to help them manage these life-changing struggles. These tools may include coping strategies, improving social skills, managing intrusive thoughts, or anger management strategies. I am passionate about helping individuals live up to their full potential. I provide individual, couples, family therapy, and I also provide child custody evaluation services.
At some point in their life, an individual may struggle to cope with overwhelming challenges, ranging from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, intrusive thoughts, to trauma or emotional dysregulation. My goal is to equip individuals with a plethora of tools in order to help them manage these life-changing struggles. These tools may include coping strategies, improving social skills, managing intrusive thoughts, or anger management strategies. I am passionate about helping individuals live up to their full potential. I provide individual, couples, family therapy, and I also provide child custody evaluation services.
(484) 464-0780 View (484) 464-0780
Photo of Regina Abernethy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Regina Abernethy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
I am committed to working with individuals, couples, and families. My area of specialty is relationship issues. Life is complicated and taking care of yourself can be challenging. Deciding to enter therapy is a meaningful step in addressing these challenges. It is a privilege to participate in your decision. I look forward to listening to your needs, assisting you in identifying your strengths, and collaborating with you, while providing practical feedback. Having a “good fit” between the client and therapist plays a critical role in laying the groundwork for addressing your unique struggles and needs.
I am committed to working with individuals, couples, and families. My area of specialty is relationship issues. Life is complicated and taking care of yourself can be challenging. Deciding to enter therapy is a meaningful step in addressing these challenges. It is a privilege to participate in your decision. I look forward to listening to your needs, assisting you in identifying your strengths, and collaborating with you, while providing practical feedback. Having a “good fit” between the client and therapist plays a critical role in laying the groundwork for addressing your unique struggles and needs.
(484) 687-5166 View (484) 687-5166
Photo of Leslie Cogorno, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Cogorno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Northampton, PA 18067
Welcome to my page, my name is Leslie Cogorno, and I am a licensed Professional Counselor. Life can often be challenging, which leaves us fatigued, stressed, and overwhelmed. I desire to walk along with you and find coping skills to help you achieve overall wellness. In your journey towards well-being, I honor the uniqueness of each individual. My approach to counseling is one that is warm, accepting, and genuine. As a counselor, I use a trauma-informed approach to all my sessions with the goal of providing a safe space where you can unpack and heal from past wounds.
Welcome to my page, my name is Leslie Cogorno, and I am a licensed Professional Counselor. Life can often be challenging, which leaves us fatigued, stressed, and overwhelmed. I desire to walk along with you and find coping skills to help you achieve overall wellness. In your journey towards well-being, I honor the uniqueness of each individual. My approach to counseling is one that is warm, accepting, and genuine. As a counselor, I use a trauma-informed approach to all my sessions with the goal of providing a safe space where you can unpack and heal from past wounds.
(484) 613-2573 View (484) 613-2573

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Samantha Pastier Llc, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Pastier Llc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18104
For couples, Gottman style approach and Emotionally focused therapy is utilized.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes that in any dynamic, whether it is in couples, family, or individual counseling; in order to achieve a healthy lifestyle it is a journey and every journey starts with one step. The first step is seeking help with a therapist that knows and understands what you are going through. Throughout my work as a therapist, I have worked with a diverse group of individuals in a wide array of settings. Working with a diverse population, I have learned and truly believe that it takes a collaborative approach to treatment in order to achieve a healthy lifestyle.
For couples, Gottman style approach and Emotionally focused therapy is utilized.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who believes that in any dynamic, whether it is in couples, family, or individual counseling; in order to achieve a healthy lifestyle it is a journey and every journey starts with one step. The first step is seeking help with a therapist that knows and understands what you are going through. Throughout my work as a therapist, I have worked with a diverse group of individuals in a wide array of settings. Working with a diverse population, I have learned and truly believe that it takes a collaborative approach to treatment in order to achieve a healthy lifestyle.
(717) 775-6225 View (717) 775-6225
Photo of Gail-Elaine Tinker, MS, RM, CH, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gail-Elaine Tinker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, RM, CH, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Offering 'home visit' service, certified Hypnotherapy, EFT Tapping, Mindfulness, and Art-Expressive Therapy.
Are you feeling 'stuck' or frustrated? There are many reasons for interest in Psychotherapy. The design of your positive wellness path is done together, as your needs are unique. State-of-the-Art plus Tried-and-True methods are employed. You are given tools to feel confident and serene on your own, as we see a 'well' client is a success ! My office is warm, professional, confidential, & convenient. The business takes many insurances, cash, checks, & credit cards. Free phone consultation is available 9a-7p at 610-216-4319 voicemail is always confidential. Also contact via email-ge@tinkerpsychotherapy.com .
Offering 'home visit' service, certified Hypnotherapy, EFT Tapping, Mindfulness, and Art-Expressive Therapy.
Are you feeling 'stuck' or frustrated? There are many reasons for interest in Psychotherapy. The design of your positive wellness path is done together, as your needs are unique. State-of-the-Art plus Tried-and-True methods are employed. You are given tools to feel confident and serene on your own, as we see a 'well' client is a success ! My office is warm, professional, confidential, & convenient. The business takes many insurances, cash, checks, & credit cards. Free phone consultation is available 9a-7p at 610-216-4319 voicemail is always confidential. Also contact via email-ge@tinkerpsychotherapy.com .
(484) 629-8936 View (484) 629-8936
Photo of William Harker, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Harker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Nazareth, PA 18064
My approach is existential/mindfulness based, cognitive and emotionally focused with a belief that all healing occurs in relationship.
No one escapes conflict, challenges and pain in this life. You might find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, grief from loss of a person you love or life transition, conflict in a relationship or possibly recovery from an addiction. Together, we can explore the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your pain on your path to healing.
My approach is existential/mindfulness based, cognitive and emotionally focused with a belief that all healing occurs in relationship.
No one escapes conflict, challenges and pain in this life. You might find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, grief from loss of a person you love or life transition, conflict in a relationship or possibly recovery from an addiction. Together, we can explore the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of your pain on your path to healing.
(610) 810-5048 View (610) 810-5048
Photo of Sara Taff, LPC, MA, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Taff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
Utilizing multiple treatment approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, certified as a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Informed clinician, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified in Mindfulness Awareness, Neuro-Linguistic Programing, and utilizing Emotional Freedom Technique, (EFT) I assist adults, late teens, couples, and families to find solutions to better regulate their emotions, language, belief system, and perceptions of life challenges. Specialities include Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Codependency, Relationship Conflict, and Brief Solution Focused work with work and relationship conflict.
Utilizing multiple treatment approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, certified as a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Informed clinician, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified in Mindfulness Awareness, Neuro-Linguistic Programing, and utilizing Emotional Freedom Technique, (EFT) I assist adults, late teens, couples, and families to find solutions to better regulate their emotions, language, belief system, and perceptions of life challenges. Specialities include Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Codependency, Relationship Conflict, and Brief Solution Focused work with work and relationship conflict.
(610) 427-8874 View (610) 427-8874
Photo of Sameh Shaker, STM, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Sameh Shaker
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, STM
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18109
I am a PhD intern in Marriage and Family Therapy. I focus on attachment studies, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which I utilize in my work with individuals and couples. In my master’s degree, I focused on trauma and grief. I have over 12 years of experience working with clients who have experienced chronic and terminal illnesses, grief, and loss in the palliative and hospice care field. I also work with couples who experience emotional and sexual distress in their relationships.
I am a PhD intern in Marriage and Family Therapy. I focus on attachment studies, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which I utilize in my work with individuals and couples. In my master’s degree, I focused on trauma and grief. I have over 12 years of experience working with clients who have experienced chronic and terminal illnesses, grief, and loss in the palliative and hospice care field. I also work with couples who experience emotional and sexual distress in their relationships.
(484) 739-1859 View (484) 739-1859
Photo of Lyn S Felix, LCSW, CHT, RM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lyn S Felix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT, RM
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103
My specialty is integrating effective holistic natural therapies of Mindfulness, Hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, Focusing, Reiki, NLP, EFT, and Sound Healing in the session so clients can relax, feel into their body, access subconscious memories releasing emotional distress and freeing up clarity, focus, confidence and empowered well-being! .
Are you seeking a holistic therapeutic haven where you can finally feel real support and enhanced possibilities for your mind, body, spirit and life? My name is Lyn Felix and I welcome you as my client to experience "Creative Holistic Therapy" where combining your motivation for change and my skills and expertise, you will improve coping skills, develop protective resiliency, restore your life to balance and successfully achieve goals. Sharing you vision for wellness, we co-create powerful positive energy that makes it happen!
My specialty is integrating effective holistic natural therapies of Mindfulness, Hypnotherapy, Brainspotting, Focusing, Reiki, NLP, EFT, and Sound Healing in the session so clients can relax, feel into their body, access subconscious memories releasing emotional distress and freeing up clarity, focus, confidence and empowered well-being! .
Are you seeking a holistic therapeutic haven where you can finally feel real support and enhanced possibilities for your mind, body, spirit and life? My name is Lyn Felix and I welcome you as my client to experience "Creative Holistic Therapy" where combining your motivation for change and my skills and expertise, you will improve coping skills, develop protective resiliency, restore your life to balance and successfully achieve goals. Sharing you vision for wellness, we co-create powerful positive energy that makes it happen!
(610) 427-8836 View (610) 427-8836
Photo of Beatrice Desir, DO
Beatrice Desir
DO
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18101  (Online Only)
Desir's practice focuses on medication management, supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Desir is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate training at The University of Scranton followed by medical school at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at Nassau University Medical Center where she served as the Administrative Chief Resident in her final year. Dr. Desir has been in practice for 4 years and has provided patients with compassionate psychiatric care. She is experienced in treating various psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
Desir's practice focuses on medication management, supportive or emotionally focused therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits.
Dr. Desir is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist who completed her undergraduate training at The University of Scranton followed by medical school at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her psychiatry residency at Nassau University Medical Center where she served as the Administrative Chief Resident in her final year. Dr. Desir has been in practice for 4 years and has provided patients with compassionate psychiatric care. She is experienced in treating various psychiatric illnesses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, OCD, PTSD, and ADHD.
(267) 361-2038 View (267) 361-2038
Photo of Lisa Azar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Azar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Having courage does not mean we are unafraid. Having courage and showing courage mean we face our fears. We are able to say we have fallen, but I will get up. ~Maya Angelou~ As a professional social worker for over 15 years, I have worked with individuals that come from all walks of life. What I have learned is that emotional pain is universal and we don't have to suffer alone or in silence. I believe in the strengths perspective that helps guide people to live a more fulfilling life. When we believe in ourselves great things are possible.
Having courage does not mean we are unafraid. Having courage and showing courage mean we face our fears. We are able to say we have fallen, but I will get up. ~Maya Angelou~ As a professional social worker for over 15 years, I have worked with individuals that come from all walks of life. What I have learned is that emotional pain is universal and we don't have to suffer alone or in silence. I believe in the strengths perspective that helps guide people to live a more fulfilling life. When we believe in ourselves great things are possible.
(484) 214-2505 View (484) 214-2505
Photo of Amanda Loper, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Loper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18020
We all want to find happiness and fulfillment in life, however, our experiences and circumstances often feel in the way of acheiving happiness. Through therapy, we will explore how your personal barriers, history, anxiety, and moods, prevent you from finding the peace you are seeking. Using a strengths based perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and various therapeutic exercises, I will work with you to find your voice and inspiration; creating the life you want. With a strong focus on offering yourself compassion and grace, I will encourage you to develop a deep sense of self-love, which makes all things possible.
We all want to find happiness and fulfillment in life, however, our experiences and circumstances often feel in the way of acheiving happiness. Through therapy, we will explore how your personal barriers, history, anxiety, and moods, prevent you from finding the peace you are seeking. Using a strengths based perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and various therapeutic exercises, I will work with you to find your voice and inspiration; creating the life you want. With a strong focus on offering yourself compassion and grace, I will encourage you to develop a deep sense of self-love, which makes all things possible.
(610) 991-8151 View (610) 991-8151
Photo of undefined - A Soft Place to Land, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Soft Place to Land
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lehigh Valley, PA 18002  (Online Only)
Unlearning diet culture & relearning body trust can be confusing and bring up big feelings. In a world that tries to tell you there’s a right way to eat and a body type that is ideal, we are here to tell you that everyone’s relationship with food is different and that all bodies are good bodies. But just saying that doesn’t take away the complexities of your food culture and your lived experience. Whether you’re in recovery from an eating disorder or exploring a new relationship with food, everyone deserves a space that feels like no topics are off limits.
Unlearning diet culture & relearning body trust can be confusing and bring up big feelings. In a world that tries to tell you there’s a right way to eat and a body type that is ideal, we are here to tell you that everyone’s relationship with food is different and that all bodies are good bodies. But just saying that doesn’t take away the complexities of your food culture and your lived experience. Whether you’re in recovery from an eating disorder or exploring a new relationship with food, everyone deserves a space that feels like no topics are off limits.
(484) 613-3462 View (484) 613-3462
Photo of Sara Tristan Grove, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Tristan Grove
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We all deserve to be heard, connected with, and loved authentically--there are so many of us who feel like we aren't seen for who we are, whether its because we feel held back by past struggles or we're still trying to learn who we want to be. I want to hear your story and help you finally feel seen. I'm here to create a safe space so you can bring what you need to our session. Therapy is a place to laugh, cry, explore, and overcome. We can do that together through empathy and person-centered work, where I meet you where you are and help you find the growth and change you're looking for.
We all deserve to be heard, connected with, and loved authentically--there are so many of us who feel like we aren't seen for who we are, whether its because we feel held back by past struggles or we're still trying to learn who we want to be. I want to hear your story and help you finally feel seen. I'm here to create a safe space so you can bring what you need to our session. Therapy is a place to laugh, cry, explore, and overcome. We can do that together through empathy and person-centered work, where I meet you where you are and help you find the growth and change you're looking for.
(610) 600-6186 View (610) 600-6186
Photo of Amber Yevak, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amber Yevak
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lehigh Valley, PA 18001
Are your everyday routines lacking luster? Does it seem like a struggle to find joy and happiness in the life you have created? Through an integrative mind-body connection approach, we will work together to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to navigate and make sense of the patterns and experiences that affect your daily routines. We will attempt to address the root cause of your ailments while supplying you with the tools necessary to calm not only your mind, but your brain, and body too.
Are your everyday routines lacking luster? Does it seem like a struggle to find joy and happiness in the life you have created? Through an integrative mind-body connection approach, we will work together to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to navigate and make sense of the patterns and experiences that affect your daily routines. We will attempt to address the root cause of your ailments while supplying you with the tools necessary to calm not only your mind, but your brain, and body too.
(610) 890-4091 View (610) 890-4091

See more therapy options for Northampton

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.