Photo of Cassandra Riddle, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Cassandra Riddle
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, Temp
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37404
Her therapeutic style is informed by an eclectic approach, using Solution-Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, and utilizing Attachment-based insight on a foundation of Person-Centered Theory to help clients gain autonomy.
Finding the right person to help with life’s problems can be an overwhelming task. Aided by her warmth and authenticity, Cassandra creates an environment where clients feel supported and empowered to share their experiences. She has decades of life experience working with adolescents and adults across multiple settings, which informs her practice. Cassandra works with clients who have experienced a life change, trauma, grief/loss and are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and/or depression. She provides individual therapy for adolescents, adults as well as couples therapy.
Her therapeutic style is informed by an eclectic approach, using Solution-Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, CBT, and utilizing Attachment-based insight on a foundation of Person-Centered Theory to help clients gain autonomy.
Finding the right person to help with life’s problems can be an overwhelming task. Aided by her warmth and authenticity, Cassandra creates an environment where clients feel supported and empowered to share their experiences. She has decades of life experience working with adolescents and adults across multiple settings, which informs her practice. Cassandra works with clients who have experienced a life change, trauma, grief/loss and are experiencing adjustment difficulties, anxiety, and/or depression. She provides individual therapy for adolescents, adults as well as couples therapy.
(754) 220-5946 View (754) 220-5946
Photo of Kendal McDaniel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Kendal McDaniel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MFTI
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I am trauma informed and utilize evidence-based therapies such as CBT, EFT, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about working with our community and can personally relate to how religious, childhood, relational, and societal trauma can impact sexuality and sexual orientation. Sexuality is a unique spectrum and is a beautiful part of who we are. In therapy together, you will find an accepting and safe space to explore all questions related to sexuality, sexual orientation and gender, non-traditional relationships, and sense of self, all with compassion and care. At Affirming Therapy Services, you are free to be who you are and to continue to discover your most authentic self.
I am trauma informed and utilize evidence-based therapies such as CBT, EFT, and Attachment-Based Therapy.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am passionate about working with our community and can personally relate to how religious, childhood, relational, and societal trauma can impact sexuality and sexual orientation. Sexuality is a unique spectrum and is a beautiful part of who we are. In therapy together, you will find an accepting and safe space to explore all questions related to sexuality, sexual orientation and gender, non-traditional relationships, and sense of self, all with compassion and care. At Affirming Therapy Services, you are free to be who you are and to continue to discover your most authentic self.
(423) 592-8149 View (423) 592-8149
Photo of Rachel Spring Serne, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Rachel Spring Serne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37404
I utilize a variety of modalities depending on the situation, including CBT, mindfulness, family systems, and EFT.
Do you find yourself feeling alone, wondering if something is "wrong" with you? Feeling like things just don't make sense? I'm here to say that you are not broken; you make sense. I believe we are all a product of a multitude of things: our past experiences, our relationships, our biology, our actions, our thoughts- and when we take the time to look at all these different things, we find that we do, in fact, make sense. I would be honored to walk beside you as you ask hard questions, discover deep places inside yourself, examine relationships in your life, and get more in touch with the unique and irreplaceable person that is YOU.
I utilize a variety of modalities depending on the situation, including CBT, mindfulness, family systems, and EFT.
Do you find yourself feeling alone, wondering if something is "wrong" with you? Feeling like things just don't make sense? I'm here to say that you are not broken; you make sense. I believe we are all a product of a multitude of things: our past experiences, our relationships, our biology, our actions, our thoughts- and when we take the time to look at all these different things, we find that we do, in fact, make sense. I would be honored to walk beside you as you ask hard questions, discover deep places inside yourself, examine relationships in your life, and get more in touch with the unique and irreplaceable person that is YOU.
(423) 436-7459 View (423) 436-7459
Photo of Kari Karp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chattanooga, TN
Kari Karp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37415
I am an attachment-based therapist, and certified in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (ECFT).
If you’re dealing with the effects of trauma, life can be so challenging. You may struggle with overreacting to everyday situations, negative thoughts or emotions about yourself or others, fear of intimacy, nightmares or flashbacks, or physical symptoms. Any kind of trauma—emotional, spiritual, physical, sexual—can severely impact your ability to feel safe and live well. In addition to working with individuals with trauma, I also work with couples on a wide range of issues - from communication skills to betrayal recovery. For both individuals and couples, I work with adults, age 21 and up.
I am an attachment-based therapist, and certified in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (ECFT).
If you’re dealing with the effects of trauma, life can be so challenging. You may struggle with overreacting to everyday situations, negative thoughts or emotions about yourself or others, fear of intimacy, nightmares or flashbacks, or physical symptoms. Any kind of trauma—emotional, spiritual, physical, sexual—can severely impact your ability to feel safe and live well. In addition to working with individuals with trauma, I also work with couples on a wide range of issues - from communication skills to betrayal recovery. For both individuals and couples, I work with adults, age 21 and up.
(423) 818-9328 View (423) 818-9328
Photo of Emma DuBose, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Emma DuBose
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA CFT, MFT-i
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
In my work with relationships, I use a combination of research-informed approaches including the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy for improving intimacy and communication along with structural family therapy, narrative, and solution-focused therapies to assess boundaries and power dynamics that are at play within every relationship structure.
As a secular therapist committed to social justice, I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, especially polyamorous or ethically non-monogamous relationships. I enjoy working with couples, families, and alternative relationship structures who might be struggling with a range of issues, from communication hangups to parenting to mismatched sexual desire or infidelity.
In my work with relationships, I use a combination of research-informed approaches including the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy for improving intimacy and communication along with structural family therapy, narrative, and solution-focused therapies to assess boundaries and power dynamics that are at play within every relationship structure.
As a secular therapist committed to social justice, I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ community, especially polyamorous or ethically non-monogamous relationships. I enjoy working with couples, families, and alternative relationship structures who might be struggling with a range of issues, from communication hangups to parenting to mismatched sexual desire or infidelity.
(423) 455-9770 View (423) 455-9770
Photo of Linden Turner, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Chattanooga, TN
Linden Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFT-I
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
For couples work, I am additionally Gottman Level 1 & 2 certified, as well as trained in EFT.
Life's challenges can lead us to a place where recognizing the person in the mirror becomes foreign. The fights with your partner, the fear of the future, or desiring a sense of direction and meaningful connection can leave us feeling frozen, overwhelmed, and distanced from where we’d like to be. Your unique experience matters - which is why I work to foster empathy, openness, authenticity, safety, and caring challenges within therapy - to meet you where you are and journey beside you as you seek to find yourself and your relationships again.
For couples work, I am additionally Gottman Level 1 & 2 certified, as well as trained in EFT.
Life's challenges can lead us to a place where recognizing the person in the mirror becomes foreign. The fights with your partner, the fear of the future, or desiring a sense of direction and meaningful connection can leave us feeling frozen, overwhelmed, and distanced from where we’d like to be. Your unique experience matters - which is why I work to foster empathy, openness, authenticity, safety, and caring challenges within therapy - to meet you where you are and journey beside you as you seek to find yourself and your relationships again.
(423) 460-9815 View (423) 460-9815
Photo of Katelyn Schroeder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Katelyn Schroeder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I value an integrated approach to therapy primarily based in Systems Theory, Attachment Theory, & Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Are your relationships in need? Whether it’s a romantic, parent-child, or working relationship, I am confident we can identify and relieve the pressures from anxiety, trauma, conflict, communication, and injury. What about your relationship with yourself? How can you find more motivation, love, and healthy coping? You are an individual with past and present experiences that can influence your relationships. The stress of life weighs heavy on the most sacred connections you have with yourself and to others. Come and gain the support and tools you need to thrive! I'd love to see you in couples' or individual counseling.
I value an integrated approach to therapy primarily based in Systems Theory, Attachment Theory, & Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Are your relationships in need? Whether it’s a romantic, parent-child, or working relationship, I am confident we can identify and relieve the pressures from anxiety, trauma, conflict, communication, and injury. What about your relationship with yourself? How can you find more motivation, love, and healthy coping? You are an individual with past and present experiences that can influence your relationships. The stress of life weighs heavy on the most sacred connections you have with yourself and to others. Come and gain the support and tools you need to thrive! I'd love to see you in couples' or individual counseling.
(423) 451-8142 View (423) 451-8142
Photo of Amanda Loven, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Amanda Loven
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, Student
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37415
I am working through certification in Emotionally Focused Couples therapy and have been utilizing it for 5 years.
Every single couple gets in a cycle. You may have found yourself even saying, “why can’t we just get unstuck? We are trying everything and we just cannot make it work!” That is where I come in! I use the most effective type of couples therapy, with scientific evidence, backing up its success. Even in our first session, you will have an understanding of your own cycle that prevents communication. While Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy can be intense work, couples everywhere are finding real change that happens through EFT.
I am working through certification in Emotionally Focused Couples therapy and have been utilizing it for 5 years.
Every single couple gets in a cycle. You may have found yourself even saying, “why can’t we just get unstuck? We are trying everything and we just cannot make it work!” That is where I come in! I use the most effective type of couples therapy, with scientific evidence, backing up its success. Even in our first session, you will have an understanding of your own cycle that prevents communication. While Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy can be intense work, couples everywhere are finding real change that happens through EFT.
(423) 380-1423 View (423) 380-1423
Photo of Dr. Carol Stoney, Counselor in Chattanooga, TN
Dr. Carol Stoney
Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
*Certified Gottman Therapist, Educator and Trainer* *Certified Imago Therapist* *Trained Emotionally Focused Therapist* I use my extensive training to offer the following treatment options: ONLINE INDIVIDUAL or ONLINE COUPLES THERAPY (only available to Tennessee residents).
Healthy relationships are not the mystery that most of us believe them to be. Love may be the reason that we commit to a relationship, but few know how to sustain that wonderful, secure feeling. There are skills that all of us must learn in order to create and manage our relationships so that our dreams don't go the way of statistics and have us end up separated from our loved one. While individual therapy has been linked to worsening relationship issues, my research-based training provides the opposite: HOPE. Let me work with you to stop the negative patterns that are taking you away from the partnership you wish to have.
*Certified Gottman Therapist, Educator and Trainer* *Certified Imago Therapist* *Trained Emotionally Focused Therapist* I use my extensive training to offer the following treatment options: ONLINE INDIVIDUAL or ONLINE COUPLES THERAPY (only available to Tennessee residents).
Healthy relationships are not the mystery that most of us believe them to be. Love may be the reason that we commit to a relationship, but few know how to sustain that wonderful, secure feeling. There are skills that all of us must learn in order to create and manage our relationships so that our dreams don't go the way of statistics and have us end up separated from our loved one. While individual therapy has been linked to worsening relationship issues, my research-based training provides the opposite: HOPE. Let me work with you to stop the negative patterns that are taking you away from the partnership you wish to have.
(423) 300-6992 View (423) 300-6992
Photo of Sue M. Bushrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Sue M. Bushrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37402  (Online Only)
With Couples I use Gottman or Emotionally Focused Therapy approach , helping to find relief and begin to thrive again.
Is life hard and your heart hurting ? Are you struggling ? Do you need relief? Has your family suffered from trauma, loss, change, or heartache? Are you a Veteran struggling? Is your marriage hard? Is your teenager struggling? Are you in professional ministry with no safe place to express the difficulties of ministry. Do you feel depressed after a major life event? I would love to help you or your family!
With Couples I use Gottman or Emotionally Focused Therapy approach , helping to find relief and begin to thrive again.
Is life hard and your heart hurting ? Are you struggling ? Do you need relief? Has your family suffered from trauma, loss, change, or heartache? Are you a Veteran struggling? Is your marriage hard? Is your teenager struggling? Are you in professional ministry with no safe place to express the difficulties of ministry. Do you feel depressed after a major life event? I would love to help you or your family!
(951) 305-4150 View (951) 305-4150
Photo of Dr. Naynette Kennett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Dr. Naynette Kennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421
I help couples learn how to navigate through relationship challenges by incorporating EFT & Gottman Methods to manage conflict, improve communication, and rebuild connections with your partner.
Are you unhappy? Are you feeling sad and stressed out? Are you feeling alone and frustrated about your relationship/marriage? Are you feeling disconnected from your partner? Do you often worry and unable to focus? Are you experiencing some challenges in life or your relationship that have become too overwhelming? Are you feeling disconnected from your partner and want to rebuild your relationship? I know it can be hard to reach out for help and begin individual or couples therapy. Therapy is a safe space to explore and learn to thrive during difficult times in life.
I help couples learn how to navigate through relationship challenges by incorporating EFT & Gottman Methods to manage conflict, improve communication, and rebuild connections with your partner.
Are you unhappy? Are you feeling sad and stressed out? Are you feeling alone and frustrated about your relationship/marriage? Are you feeling disconnected from your partner? Do you often worry and unable to focus? Are you experiencing some challenges in life or your relationship that have become too overwhelming? Are you feeling disconnected from your partner and want to rebuild your relationship? I know it can be hard to reach out for help and begin individual or couples therapy. Therapy is a safe space to explore and learn to thrive during difficult times in life.
(678) 841-8607 View (678) 841-8607
Photo of Alyssa Walden Durdunji, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Alyssa Walden Durdunji
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421  (Online Only)
I am passionate about seeing lives and relationships restored. I recognize the courage it takes to come to therapy and believe that transformation happens in the context of relationships when people feel heard and understood. My hope is to invite clients into a safe space where we have the opportunity to honestly confront painful and uncomfortable issues.
I am passionate about seeing lives and relationships restored. I recognize the courage it takes to come to therapy and believe that transformation happens in the context of relationships when people feel heard and understood. My hope is to invite clients into a safe space where we have the opportunity to honestly confront painful and uncomfortable issues.
(615) 455-2540 View (615) 455-2540
Photo of Mia DiMola, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Chattanooga, TN
Mia DiMola
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, CFLE, MS MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37415
Approaching therapy from a nonjudgmental, open, and accepting perspective with belief in the inherent worth of all people, I have 10+ years of experience working with parents, couples, the LGBTQ community and multicultural families. From helping parents solve discipline challenges to guiding couples in relationship enrichment, I helps people develop uniquely tailored plans to navigate the waters of their family’s own extraordinary journey.
Approaching therapy from a nonjudgmental, open, and accepting perspective with belief in the inherent worth of all people, I have 10+ years of experience working with parents, couples, the LGBTQ community and multicultural families. From helping parents solve discipline challenges to guiding couples in relationship enrichment, I helps people develop uniquely tailored plans to navigate the waters of their family’s own extraordinary journey.
(423) 220-4245 View (423) 220-4245
Photo of Katie Burns, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chattanooga, TN
Katie Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
Over the past 13 years, I have worked with a variety of challenges ages 5 to 75. With a double Masters degree in School Counseling and Mental Health, I have a unique training background. Skilled in relationship counseling that reaches family, school and personal issues, I would like the opportunity to talk with you more about how my training and experience can assist you or your family. When you can't look on the bright side, I will sit with you in the dark. Life is difficult. Sometimes we need the help of others who have walked through difficult things themselves and have walked this journey with others.
Over the past 13 years, I have worked with a variety of challenges ages 5 to 75. With a double Masters degree in School Counseling and Mental Health, I have a unique training background. Skilled in relationship counseling that reaches family, school and personal issues, I would like the opportunity to talk with you more about how my training and experience can assist you or your family. When you can't look on the bright side, I will sit with you in the dark. Life is difficult. Sometimes we need the help of others who have walked through difficult things themselves and have walked this journey with others.
(423) 933-1945 View (423) 933-1945
Photo of Amy Fowler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Amy Fowler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37403
If you feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions and life events, an empathetic ear can be a source of healing. I am passionate about working toward hope with those who feel stuck, broken, isolated, or for whom change seems impossible. I advocate for and teach clients the power of fierce self-compassion, which allows them to explore their thoughts, emotions, and actions more clearly. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, chronic health issues, marital and parental challenges, spiritual wounds, disordered eating, and addictions.
If you feel weighed down by overwhelming emotions and life events, an empathetic ear can be a source of healing. I am passionate about working toward hope with those who feel stuck, broken, isolated, or for whom change seems impossible. I advocate for and teach clients the power of fierce self-compassion, which allows them to explore their thoughts, emotions, and actions more clearly. I work with adolescents, adults, and couples navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, trauma, chronic health issues, marital and parental challenges, spiritual wounds, disordered eating, and addictions.
(423) 454-3268 View (423) 454-3268
Photo of Dawn Smith Gibbs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chattanooga, TN
Dawn Smith Gibbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37421  (Online Only)
In a world that continues to turn with or without us, we often wonder where we can get off in order to regroup. When we are expected to fulfill all of the everyday roles that we have taken on, we tend to lose touch with ourselves. My purpose is to provide an open, restorative and non-judgmental healing space for you. I am pleased to work with individuals who want help with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief. As well as providing support during life transitions, unexpected changes and personal growth.
In a world that continues to turn with or without us, we often wonder where we can get off in order to regroup. When we are expected to fulfill all of the everyday roles that we have taken on, we tend to lose touch with ourselves. My purpose is to provide an open, restorative and non-judgmental healing space for you. I am pleased to work with individuals who want help with anxiety, depression, trauma and grief. As well as providing support during life transitions, unexpected changes and personal growth.
(423) 210-4774 View (423) 210-4774
Photo of Leigh Irvin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chattanooga, TN
Leigh Irvin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37404
As an individual committed to your well-being, I offer personalized counseling to guide you through life's challenges. Together, we can explore strengths, navigate difficulties, and foster a positive mindset. I can provide deep understanding of diverse challenges, offering proven strategies for positive change. Step into a safe space where your thoughts are heard without judgment. My commitment to providing this safe space ensures you can explore, express, and heal. Take the first step toward a more fulfilling life because your path to a happier, healthier life can begin here. Let's embark on this journey together.
As an individual committed to your well-being, I offer personalized counseling to guide you through life's challenges. Together, we can explore strengths, navigate difficulties, and foster a positive mindset. I can provide deep understanding of diverse challenges, offering proven strategies for positive change. Step into a safe space where your thoughts are heard without judgment. My commitment to providing this safe space ensures you can explore, express, and heal. Take the first step toward a more fulfilling life because your path to a happier, healthier life can begin here. Let's embark on this journey together.
(423) 509-0480 View (423) 509-0480
Photo of Mary Ellis Morris in Chattanooga, TN
Mary Ellis Morris
BS, MS, LC
Verified Verified
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Are you neurodivergent and about to graduate from high school, recently graduated from high school or college? Are you trying to transition into a career field, adult relationships, or an independent routine? I can help you navigate hard transitions into adult life. You can schedule a free consultation on morrisindependenceconsultants.com
Are you neurodivergent and about to graduate from high school, recently graduated from high school or college? Are you trying to transition into a career field, adult relationships, or an independent routine? I can help you navigate hard transitions into adult life. You can schedule a free consultation on morrisindependenceconsultants.com
(423) 401-6940 View (423) 401-6940
Photo of Mary Moore, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Mary Moore
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37405
I believe that people make sense within their context. And so, I am mindful of context - cultural background, attachment style, family and relationship history, etc. I enjoy the process of listening and attending, especially to those whose voices may feel unheard, such as teens, women, and trauma survivors. My work is informed by an integrative and embodied approach, utilizing various family system theories and trauma-informed interventions. Through establishing a sound therapeutic relationship and safe environment, I am hopeful that your difficult emotions will "make sense," and a story of resilience and compassion will be heard.
I believe that people make sense within their context. And so, I am mindful of context - cultural background, attachment style, family and relationship history, etc. I enjoy the process of listening and attending, especially to those whose voices may feel unheard, such as teens, women, and trauma survivors. My work is informed by an integrative and embodied approach, utilizing various family system theories and trauma-informed interventions. Through establishing a sound therapeutic relationship and safe environment, I am hopeful that your difficult emotions will "make sense," and a story of resilience and compassion will be heard.
(423) 226-5845 View (423) 226-5845
Photo of Marlee Harb, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chattanooga, TN
Marlee Harb
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chattanooga, TN 37408
I love to work with teens & adult individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, the impacts of trauma, self worth issues, and women’s issues. It can be overwhelming to sort through all the old thoughts, emotions, and relationship patterns on our own. You deserve a supportive place to find your truth & the space to heal.
I love to work with teens & adult individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, the impacts of trauma, self worth issues, and women’s issues. It can be overwhelming to sort through all the old thoughts, emotions, and relationship patterns on our own. You deserve a supportive place to find your truth & the space to heal.
(423) 436-9046 View (423) 436-9046

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.