Emotionally Focused Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Jessica Everly, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Everly
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Hello, and welcome. I am a counselor who works with individuals and couples ages 17 and up. I treat depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, OCD, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship distress. My approach is integrative, combining emotionally focused therapy, behavioral therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, and somatic techniques. I am a LPC and I have a doctorate with over 15 years of experience in the field of psychology. Sessions with me tend to be semi-structured, with us working towards your goals while leaving space for timely stressors that arise. Warmth, support and curiosity are always present in my sessions.
Hello, and welcome. I am a counselor who works with individuals and couples ages 17 and up. I treat depression, anxiety, panic, trauma, OCD, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship distress. My approach is integrative, combining emotionally focused therapy, behavioral therapies, cognitive behavioral therapy, and somatic techniques. I am a LPC and I have a doctorate with over 15 years of experience in the field of psychology. Sessions with me tend to be semi-structured, with us working towards your goals while leaving space for timely stressors that arise. Warmth, support and curiosity are always present in my sessions.
(412) 693-6197 View (412) 693-6197
Photo of Dr. Samantha Marino, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Samantha Marino
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
I have been most helpful with clients who have clear goals or specific issues they want to address. I can work with you in a brief, specific and time-limited ways to help faciliate problem-solving and behavioral changes as needed. I can also work with you long-term to address chronic or longer standing issues of past trauma, family conflict, or issues with self and identity. Most importantly, I work collaboratively to help you meet your own needs by matching the treatment modality and plan with your stated needs and learning/attachment style. I am direct and honest, but always with permission and gentleness. I respect and value all.
I have been most helpful with clients who have clear goals or specific issues they want to address. I can work with you in a brief, specific and time-limited ways to help faciliate problem-solving and behavioral changes as needed. I can also work with you long-term to address chronic or longer standing issues of past trauma, family conflict, or issues with self and identity. Most importantly, I work collaboratively to help you meet your own needs by matching the treatment modality and plan with your stated needs and learning/attachment style. I am direct and honest, but always with permission and gentleness. I respect and value all.
(412) 899-2191 View (412) 899-2191
Photo of Christine Nichols - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh
Counselor
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
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.
(412) 455-8994 View (412) 455-8994
Photo of Margot Groenfeldt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margot Groenfeldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
I utilize EFT, structural family therapy, CBT, and strengths and mindfulness based approaches.
Welcome! My name is Margot Groenfeldt. I am an LCSW and owner and founder of Yellow Rose Counseling. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families and I believe that the path to greater happiness and improved mental health is best discovered by focusing on your relationships. Whether they take the form of romantic partnerships, friendships, or your relationship to yourself, I believe that exploring the relationships that define your life will lead to improved well-being, and I am excited to accompany you on this journey.
I utilize EFT, structural family therapy, CBT, and strengths and mindfulness based approaches.
Welcome! My name is Margot Groenfeldt. I am an LCSW and owner and founder of Yellow Rose Counseling. I enjoy working with couples, individuals, and families and I believe that the path to greater happiness and improved mental health is best discovered by focusing on your relationships. Whether they take the form of romantic partnerships, friendships, or your relationship to yourself, I believe that exploring the relationships that define your life will lead to improved well-being, and I am excited to accompany you on this journey.
(412) 946-0820 View (412) 946-0820
Photo of Marcus Robinson, MSEd, MPhilEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marcus Robinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, MPhilEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
I mainly pull from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), feminist therapy, liberation psychology, internal family systems (IFS), emotion focused therapy ( EFT), and dialectic behavior therapy (DBT).
Hi! I’m marcus. I am a pre-licensed counselor who practices on the unceded land of the Lenape people, based in the city of Philadelphia. I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodistinct, Black, African American, Dominican, person. I am a recent graduate of the Counseling and Mental Health Services (M.S.Ed.) and Professional Counseling (M.Phil.Ed.) programs at the University of Pennsylvania; I also hold a BA in Psychology with a minor in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.
I mainly pull from acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), feminist therapy, liberation psychology, internal family systems (IFS), emotion focused therapy ( EFT), and dialectic behavior therapy (DBT).
Hi! I’m marcus. I am a pre-licensed counselor who practices on the unceded land of the Lenape people, based in the city of Philadelphia. I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodistinct, Black, African American, Dominican, person. I am a recent graduate of the Counseling and Mental Health Services (M.S.Ed.) and Professional Counseling (M.Phil.Ed.) programs at the University of Pennsylvania; I also hold a BA in Psychology with a minor in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies from the University of Pennsylvania.
(412) 819-1478 View (412) 819-1478
Photo of Courtney Orlowski, MS, NCC, MSEd, CSP
Courtney Orlowski
MS, NCC, MSEd, CSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
I am formally trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy & Internal Family Systems, which means faster, more lasting healing.
Are you struggling in a relationship and finding yourself stuck in a negative cycle with someone you love? Do you find that all your good intentions lead you further from connection? The closest relationship is where the biggest hurts happen because this person means so much to us. Often we are stuck in a cycle where there is no good move. We fight for our connection, and things blow up. We tuck away our pain, and we feel further apart. This feels like so much pressure, and often a hopeless place to be.
I am formally trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy & Internal Family Systems, which means faster, more lasting healing.
Are you struggling in a relationship and finding yourself stuck in a negative cycle with someone you love? Do you find that all your good intentions lead you further from connection? The closest relationship is where the biggest hurts happen because this person means so much to us. Often we are stuck in a cycle where there is no good move. We fight for our connection, and things blow up. We tuck away our pain, and we feel further apart. This feels like so much pressure, and often a hopeless place to be.
(412) 206-9275 View (412) 206-9275
Photo of Jennifer Tieman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Tieman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15234  (Online Only)
My training and experience are multi-faceted with a strong grounding in trauma, attachment and emotionally focused work.
I am a trauma informed clinician who specializes in developmental trauma. I use NARM (neuro-affective relational model) to guide in the rediscovery of lost pieces of the self. My approach is non blaming, strength based and compassionate.
My training and experience are multi-faceted with a strong grounding in trauma, attachment and emotionally focused work.
I am a trauma informed clinician who specializes in developmental trauma. I use NARM (neuro-affective relational model) to guide in the rediscovery of lost pieces of the self. My approach is non blaming, strength based and compassionate.
(412) 564-0600 View (412) 564-0600
Photo of Elyse Milliron, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elyse Milliron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15241
I'm an EMDR-HAP trained EMDR therapist who utilizes a variety of techniques (mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, EFT tapping, breath work) to help you, starting exactly where you are today, in achieving your goals.
Clients who work best with me tend to yearn awakening and change. I welcome the challenge to help clients connect with higher versions of themselves. Trauma, difficult emotions, relationships and the stress of life often lead to feeling stuck, feeling out of control of yourself, your emotions and reactions. My goal is to show you that there is a better way. A way to live with intention and purpose, guided by the best version of you! (Please note I do not have evening or weekend availability and my office is located in the South Hills of Pittsburgh- I will ask you to complete a brief phone consult to ensure I am a good fit)
I'm an EMDR-HAP trained EMDR therapist who utilizes a variety of techniques (mindfulness, EMDR, CBT, EFT tapping, breath work) to help you, starting exactly where you are today, in achieving your goals.
Clients who work best with me tend to yearn awakening and change. I welcome the challenge to help clients connect with higher versions of themselves. Trauma, difficult emotions, relationships and the stress of life often lead to feeling stuck, feeling out of control of yourself, your emotions and reactions. My goal is to show you that there is a better way. A way to live with intention and purpose, guided by the best version of you! (Please note I do not have evening or weekend availability and my office is located in the South Hills of Pittsburgh- I will ask you to complete a brief phone consult to ensure I am a good fit)
(412) 838-3534 View (412) 838-3534
Photo of Molly Alvord - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh
Counselor
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
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.
(412) 284-5215 View (412) 284-5215
Photo of Carli C. King, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carli C. King
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and active listening, and draws from a rich tapestry of therapeutic approaches, including narrative therapy, emotion-focused therapy ( EFT), and the Gottman Method to tailor my support to your unique needs and aspirations.
Hey, I’m Carli, a licensed therapist who specializes in helping people improve their relationships and mental health. If you're feeling stuck in cycles of conflict or uncertainty, I can help you find meaningful connections with yourself and others.
My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and active listening, and draws from a rich tapestry of therapeutic approaches, including narrative therapy, emotion-focused therapy ( EFT), and the Gottman Method to tailor my support to your unique needs and aspirations.
Hey, I’m Carli, a licensed therapist who specializes in helping people improve their relationships and mental health. If you're feeling stuck in cycles of conflict or uncertainty, I can help you find meaningful connections with yourself and others.
(878) 302-0103 View (878) 302-0103
Photo of Tonette Whitted, LPC, MSEd, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tonette Whitted
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
I utilize an eclectic approach drawing from structural, solution-focused, emotionally focused and cognitive behavioral therapy.
To my future clients, wow I'm so glad you've crossed my page. I'm not sure what it took to get to this point, but I am sure glad you did. I could give you the long spill of why I think this process is helpful and enlightening, but I won't. What I will tell you is; you are capable, you are strong, you are resilient and going through the psychotherapy process I hope you discover that too! You deserve to be seen, to feel valued and to be heard. Life has a way of knocking the wind out of you and causing you to question your existence. Resilience is one thing we all share; the capability of getting back up and breathe again. Breathe.
I utilize an eclectic approach drawing from structural, solution-focused, emotionally focused and cognitive behavioral therapy.
To my future clients, wow I'm so glad you've crossed my page. I'm not sure what it took to get to this point, but I am sure glad you did. I could give you the long spill of why I think this process is helpful and enlightening, but I won't. What I will tell you is; you are capable, you are strong, you are resilient and going through the psychotherapy process I hope you discover that too! You deserve to be seen, to feel valued and to be heard. Life has a way of knocking the wind out of you and causing you to question your existence. Resilience is one thing we all share; the capability of getting back up and breathe again. Breathe.
(412) 435-9031 View (412) 435-9031
Photo of Jeff Johnson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeff Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
I work through a multimodality system including Emotionally Focused therapy, Gottman, CBT, EMDR, Systemic and structural theories.
If you are looking to transform yourself or your relationship and have healthier forms of communication, more intimate and emotional forms of connection and ,overall, improve your sense of self and relationships let your journey begin. With over 20 years of mental health experience and 14 years practicing therapy, I have learned to specialize in relationship/couples therapy and work as well as individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other life and circumstantial issues. If you are looking to repair, strengthen, regain connection, improve intimacy, or generally work on your relationships or your mental health I can help.
I work through a multimodality system including Emotionally Focused therapy, Gottman, CBT, EMDR, Systemic and structural theories.
If you are looking to transform yourself or your relationship and have healthier forms of communication, more intimate and emotional forms of connection and ,overall, improve your sense of self and relationships let your journey begin. With over 20 years of mental health experience and 14 years practicing therapy, I have learned to specialize in relationship/couples therapy and work as well as individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and other life and circumstantial issues. If you are looking to repair, strengthen, regain connection, improve intimacy, or generally work on your relationships or your mental health I can help.
(724) 932-6276 View (724) 932-6276
Photo of Adrian Turner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrian Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
I am trained as an Emotionally Focused Therapist ( EFT).
Does your relationship have meaningful affection, secure attachment and passionate sex? Is your quest for love elusive or is your "picker" broken? Feeling love starved? Are you ready to make it better? If you have heard yourself ask the question, “What are we doing here,” or, “Will I ever know real love,” I'd love to help you. From poor communication and fights with no resolution, to unmet sexual needs and recovering from narcissistic abuse, I have the skills to help you make life and love more fulfilling. I know that having and making good love can be tough. Don't do this alone. Reach out to me to begin a new love journey!
I am trained as an Emotionally Focused Therapist ( EFT).
Does your relationship have meaningful affection, secure attachment and passionate sex? Is your quest for love elusive or is your "picker" broken? Feeling love starved? Are you ready to make it better? If you have heard yourself ask the question, “What are we doing here,” or, “Will I ever know real love,” I'd love to help you. From poor communication and fights with no resolution, to unmet sexual needs and recovering from narcissistic abuse, I have the skills to help you make life and love more fulfilling. I know that having and making good love can be tough. Don't do this alone. Reach out to me to begin a new love journey!
(412) 903-3578 View (412) 903-3578
Photo of Courtney Sonntag, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Sonntag
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201  (Online Only)
I offer Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), which is a great approach to identifying the patterns you've experienced in your relationship (and life) that keep you stuck, breaking free from those patterns, and deepening the connections you have, allowing you to really, truly feel who you are and what you need.
Hi there! Let's sit and chat... Are you wondering what direction to go in your life? Many people feel stuck, often wondering "should I stay or should I go." I will help you "unstuck" all those thoughts about your self, your relationships, and your life. We'll work on building trust and a sense of safety, using open communication, and (most importantly) humor to figure out how we can improve on your already existing coping skills, supports, and knowledge, so you can live the life you've been wanting.
I offer Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), which is a great approach to identifying the patterns you've experienced in your relationship (and life) that keep you stuck, breaking free from those patterns, and deepening the connections you have, allowing you to really, truly feel who you are and what you need.
Hi there! Let's sit and chat... Are you wondering what direction to go in your life? Many people feel stuck, often wondering "should I stay or should I go." I will help you "unstuck" all those thoughts about your self, your relationships, and your life. We'll work on building trust and a sense of safety, using open communication, and (most importantly) humor to figure out how we can improve on your already existing coping skills, supports, and knowledge, so you can live the life you've been wanting.
(725) 525-6246 View (725) 525-6246
Photo of Alice Link, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alice Link
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201  (Online Only)
Specifically for work with couples, I have completed Level 1 and Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and have certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I provide therapy for individuals or couples seeking to address concerns related to sexual health and/or relationships. I offer a comfortable and relaxed approach in sessions to facilitate honest interaction with my clients. Sex therapy is a talk-therapy approach addressing problems related to sexuality, arousal, desire, sexual difficulties, and intimacy. Couples therapy is ideal for couples struggling with communication or managing conflict, as well as increasing their emotional, intimate, or erotic connection.
Specifically for work with couples, I have completed Level 1 and Level 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and have certification in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I provide therapy for individuals or couples seeking to address concerns related to sexual health and/or relationships. I offer a comfortable and relaxed approach in sessions to facilitate honest interaction with my clients. Sex therapy is a talk-therapy approach addressing problems related to sexuality, arousal, desire, sexual difficulties, and intimacy. Couples therapy is ideal for couples struggling with communication or managing conflict, as well as increasing their emotional, intimate, or erotic connection.
(814) 377-1118 View (814) 377-1118
Photo of Beatrice Desir, DO
Beatrice Desir
DO
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122  (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 Rebecca Golden-Trist, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Golden-Trist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
For couples therapy I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I believe in creating a safe environment where individuals are able to learn, grow, and change. I view my clients not only through the framework of their individual concerns but also in the context of greater social influences.
For couples therapy I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I believe in creating a safe environment where individuals are able to learn, grow, and change. I view my clients not only through the framework of their individual concerns but also in the context of greater social influences.
(724) 308-9248 View (724) 308-9248
Photo of Joanne R Bissell, MA, LPC, CCM, CMIP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanne R Bissell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCM, CMIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15218  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples.
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD and stage of life issues.
I utilize evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples.
I believe in a holistic approach which respects the importance of a healthy mind, body, and spirit. My client base includes individuals with chronic illness and pain, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, ADHD and stage of life issues.
(412) 214-7114 View (412) 214-7114
Photo of Sameh Shaker, STM, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Sameh Shaker
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, STM
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15260
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 Cynthia Crabb - Sensory and Sensibility, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sensory and Sensibility
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15213
We are a trauma-focused group, working in somatic, narrative, family systems, and cognitive approaches. Whether you need practical skills and empathetic listening, exploring your past and how it affects your present, or processing specific or developmental traumas, we are here to walk with you on your journey. We are LGBTQIA+ affirming.
We are a trauma-focused group, working in somatic, narrative, family systems, and cognitive approaches. Whether you need practical skills and empathetic listening, exploring your past and how it affects your present, or processing specific or developmental traumas, we are here to walk with you on your journey. We are LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(412) 347-5080 View (412) 347-5080
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Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is for couples who are emotionally distressed, stuck in an unsatisfying relationship pattern or feeling deeply alienated. They may even believe the relationship is beyond repair. Very often, the partners display intense anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal in the relationship. In addition, EFT is helpful to couples and individuals who have difficulty expressing emotions and those who have trouble regulating emotions.

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

People need emotionally focused therapy because the need for others is built into the brain, but the pressures of daily life can erode feelings of love, and couples often do not have the skills to find their way back to the comfort of each other. Instead, they may be stuck in repetitive patterns of anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal. Emotionally focused therapy regards such strong negative feelings as expressions of protest over the loss of connection and turns them into pathways of reconnection.

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

Over the course of eight to 20 weekly sessions, couples de-escalate their negative emotional reactivity to one another so that they can listen to each other and be responsive to each other’s needs. Then the deep emotional and physical bond is restored, giving partners a sense of comfort and security, which they can use to solve whatever problems come their way. The therapist plays an active role, helping partners understand how anger and withdrawal are actually misguided cries for connection.

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

EFT is designed to help couples stuck in dysfunctional relationship patterns regain closeness and rebuild their relationship. Typically, such couples experience considerable distress, with partners feeling alienated and distrustful of one another, not certain their relationship can survive. EFT is also helpful to individuals experiencing attachment-related fears of loss; it helps them learn to use their fears as a way of eliciting the closeness they desire.