Emotionally Focused Therapists in Vancouver, WA

Photo of Anjelika Layco - Angel's Marriage Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Angel's Marriage Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My marriage counseling approach is grounded in compassionate and effective principles of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Imago Relationship Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and the Gottman Therapy Method.
Online Marriage Counseling for residents of Washington, Oregon and California. Do you feel like you and your partner are drifting apart? Do you wish to restore intimacy and rekindle love? You and your partner deserve to be happy, and I am here to help. I have been providing marriage counseling to couples who struggle with marital distress, communication problems, infidelity and a history of trauma for over 16 years. Let me help you deepen emotional connection, restore intimacy and rebuild a loving relationship.
My marriage counseling approach is grounded in compassionate and effective principles of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Imago Relationship Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and the Gottman Therapy Method.
Online Marriage Counseling for residents of Washington, Oregon and California. Do you feel like you and your partner are drifting apart? Do you wish to restore intimacy and rekindle love? You and your partner deserve to be happy, and I am here to help. I have been providing marriage counseling to couples who struggle with marital distress, communication problems, infidelity and a history of trauma for over 16 years. Let me help you deepen emotional connection, restore intimacy and rebuild a loving relationship.
(360) 558-3433 View (360) 558-3433
Photo of Stephanie Haskell, Counselor, MA
Stephanie Haskell
Counselor, MA
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98661
I have completed the Emotionally Focused Therapy Externship, and pursue self-study in Internal Family Systems, Jungian, Somatic Experiencing, and Trauma.
Are you struggling to form deep connections or find fulfillment in your relationships? Whether trauma has impacted your ability to connect or you're facing challenges in dating, I offer a supportive and empathetic approach to guide you on your journey. My work is deeply rooted in trauma-informed care, with a special emphasis on using EMDR to address underlying issues that may be affecting your relationships. I also have a keen interest in helping individuals navigate parenting challenges, relationship difficulties, and the emotional toll of infertility.
I have completed the Emotionally Focused Therapy Externship, and pursue self-study in Internal Family Systems, Jungian, Somatic Experiencing, and Trauma.
Are you struggling to form deep connections or find fulfillment in your relationships? Whether trauma has impacted your ability to connect or you're facing challenges in dating, I offer a supportive and empathetic approach to guide you on your journey. My work is deeply rooted in trauma-informed care, with a special emphasis on using EMDR to address underlying issues that may be affecting your relationships. I also have a keen interest in helping individuals navigate parenting challenges, relationship difficulties, and the emotional toll of infertility.
(360) 732-8105 x106 View (360) 732-8105 x106
Photo of Leslie Collord, Counselor, LMHC
Leslie Collord
Counselor, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98661
Therapy modalities used include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), Emotion Focused Therapy for Couples ( EFT), The Gottman Method for Couples, Solution Focused Therapy, and a Motivational Interviewing approach.
Currently accepting individuals only. I work with adult individuals, teens ages 13+, and couples seeking support for anxiety, depression, insomnia, relationship issues, life transitions, and trauma and stress-related problems. My aim is to provide a supportive yet challenging space that enables you to explore feelings, work through obstacles, and develop more effective coping skills along the way. I value a collaborative working relationship using evidence based practices to guide sessions and work to facilitate openness through remaining curious, engaged, and empathic.
Therapy modalities used include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), Emotion Focused Therapy for Couples ( EFT), The Gottman Method for Couples, Solution Focused Therapy, and a Motivational Interviewing approach.
Currently accepting individuals only. I work with adult individuals, teens ages 13+, and couples seeking support for anxiety, depression, insomnia, relationship issues, life transitions, and trauma and stress-related problems. My aim is to provide a supportive yet challenging space that enables you to explore feelings, work through obstacles, and develop more effective coping skills along the way. I value a collaborative working relationship using evidence based practices to guide sessions and work to facilitate openness through remaining curious, engaged, and empathic.
(360) 516-1383 View (360) 516-1383
Photo of Jeff Shenk, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Jeff Shenk
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Vancouver, WA 98663
When working with couples, I have found the Gottman method to be most effective in tandem with Emotionally Focused therapy.
It is sometimes hard to find our place as individuals or as husbands and fathers in the world. Are you struggling with your role as a committed, loving husband? Your marriage lacks intimacy, and it seems like every discussion ends in conflict and hurt. Or your only role model was absent and none of those around you seem to have the same struggles. As a parent, you find yourself being harsh or shaming your children and then regretting it but unable to find a better way? Maybe you feel isolated and alone, easing the pain by acting out in harmful ways.
When working with couples, I have found the Gottman method to be most effective in tandem with Emotionally Focused therapy.
It is sometimes hard to find our place as individuals or as husbands and fathers in the world. Are you struggling with your role as a committed, loving husband? Your marriage lacks intimacy, and it seems like every discussion ends in conflict and hurt. Or your only role model was absent and none of those around you seem to have the same struggles. As a parent, you find yourself being harsh or shaming your children and then regretting it but unable to find a better way? Maybe you feel isolated and alone, easing the pain by acting out in harmful ways.
(360) 836-1872 View (360) 836-1872
Photo of Liz Beaty, Licensed Mental Health Counselor , LPC, MA
Liz Beaty
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , LPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I draw from a blend of evidence-based modalities including Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting and mindfulness practices.
Are you a late diagnosed or realized nuerodivergent adult finding it difficult to continue navigating a world that often doesn't make sense? Sensory overwhelm, difficult relationships, hardships at work, and constant masking has you on the verge of burnout, not to mention the trauma of living in a world not built for you? Have you tried many therapists that just didn't seem to "get" you and nothing they had you try seemed to work? If so, welcome- I am so glad you are here! As an autistic therapist, I want to help you navigate those struggles and partner with you to unmask, regain skills, and find a renewed sense of well being.
I draw from a blend of evidence-based modalities including Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting and mindfulness practices.
Are you a late diagnosed or realized nuerodivergent adult finding it difficult to continue navigating a world that often doesn't make sense? Sensory overwhelm, difficult relationships, hardships at work, and constant masking has you on the verge of burnout, not to mention the trauma of living in a world not built for you? Have you tried many therapists that just didn't seem to "get" you and nothing they had you try seemed to work? If so, welcome- I am so glad you are here! As an autistic therapist, I want to help you navigate those struggles and partner with you to unmask, regain skills, and find a renewed sense of well being.
(360) 634-4476 View (360) 634-4476
Photo of Valinda Harlan Individuals Couples Communication Emotional Sexual Intimacy, Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LPCC, NCC
Training: Gottman Institute, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Prepare/Enrich, Internal Family Systems, Sexual Wellness, and Transgender Health.
Now Accepting New Clients for In-Person & Telehealth Appointments. Are you struggling in your relationship? Whether you're facing sexual issues, broken trust, poor communication, or just feeling disconnected—there is hope. I'm an experienced therapist specializing in relationship concerns. I work with couples of all ages, traditional, and nontraditional partnerships. Together, we can explore healthier communication, rebuild emotional intimacy, and cultivate appreciation. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to heal old wounds and learn practical tools. Click on the link to my website to learn more. I do not accept insurance.
Training: Gottman Institute, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Prepare/Enrich, Internal Family Systems, Sexual Wellness, and Transgender Health.
Now Accepting New Clients for In-Person & Telehealth Appointments. Are you struggling in your relationship? Whether you're facing sexual issues, broken trust, poor communication, or just feeling disconnected—there is hope. I'm an experienced therapist specializing in relationship concerns. I work with couples of all ages, traditional, and nontraditional partnerships. Together, we can explore healthier communication, rebuild emotional intimacy, and cultivate appreciation. I offer a supportive, nonjudgmental space to heal old wounds and learn practical tools. Click on the link to my website to learn more. I do not accept insurance.
(360) 994-1334 View (360) 994-1334
Photo of Esther J Kim, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Esther J Kim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
6 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98683
I have experience in somatic, narrative, and DBT/CBT for individual work; and Gottman, EFT for couples.
Greetings and welcome to my page. Everyone has a story that matters. Telling our story benefits us in many ways. It connects us from the past and future to our present lives. It is through these stories, that healing and growth can happen and a more resilient you can arise.
I have experience in somatic, narrative, and DBT/CBT for individual work; and Gottman, EFT for couples.
Greetings and welcome to my page. Everyone has a story that matters. Telling our story benefits us in many ways. It connects us from the past and future to our present lives. It is through these stories, that healing and growth can happen and a more resilient you can arise.
(360) 763-0695 View (360) 763-0695
Photo of Rinatta Paries, Counselor, MA, CMHA, MFTA
Rinatta Paries
Counselor, MA, CMHA, MFTA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With couples, I use research-based Emotionally Focused Therapy which helps 90% of couples significantly improve their relationship by reconnecting.
Struggling with your relationship or marriage? Suffering over a painful breakup? Having trouble finding the right partner? Suffering from pain of an affair? Feeling stressed about what is happening with your teen or want to connect more with your young adult? Relationship-related situations such as these are solvable with therapy! As your therapist, I will help you navigate your way through painful situations and move towards creating lifelong, loving relationships, rich in connection and communication. Along the way, you will find yourself releasing trauma, feeling better, functioning better, and creating a life you love.
With couples, I use research-based Emotionally Focused Therapy which helps 90% of couples significantly improve their relationship by reconnecting.
Struggling with your relationship or marriage? Suffering over a painful breakup? Having trouble finding the right partner? Suffering from pain of an affair? Feeling stressed about what is happening with your teen or want to connect more with your young adult? Relationship-related situations such as these are solvable with therapy! As your therapist, I will help you navigate your way through painful situations and move towards creating lifelong, loving relationships, rich in connection and communication. Along the way, you will find yourself releasing trauma, feeling better, functioning better, and creating a life you love.
(360) 776-7076 View (360) 776-7076
Photo of Shasta Hickman, Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CMHS, LPC, NCC
Shasta Hickman
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CMHS, LPC, NCC
4 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
I offer a variety of treatment types including EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Safe and Sound Protocol, among others.
Are you struggling with communication, grief, or relationships? You want to learn to have healthy boundaries and communicate them effectively. Or you have an area of your life that you feel stuck and cannot seem to get unstuck on your own. One or more of the relationships in your life is unsatisfying and you want to change this. Do you need help for yourself, your child, your marriage, or your family?
I offer a variety of treatment types including EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Safe and Sound Protocol, among others.
Are you struggling with communication, grief, or relationships? You want to learn to have healthy boundaries and communicate them effectively. Or you have an area of your life that you feel stuck and cannot seem to get unstuck on your own. One or more of the relationships in your life is unsatisfying and you want to change this. Do you need help for yourself, your child, your marriage, or your family?
(360) 558-3410 View (360) 558-3410
Photo of Tyler Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMHCA, MFTA
Tyler Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMHCA, MFTA
6 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98686
As a therapist specializing in DBT, CBT, EFT, and narrative therapy, I offer tools to help manage emotions and change negative thinking patterns.
Immediate Openings, No Waitlist! As a therapist, my ideal client is someone open to self-exploration and change, whether they're a teen facing the trials of growing up or a couple striving to strengthen their relationship. They may struggle with anxiety, self-esteem, or communication, and their goal is to achieve a sense of well-being. They seek a safe space to be heard and understood, as well as guidance to navigate life's challenges with resilience.
As a therapist specializing in DBT, CBT, EFT, and narrative therapy, I offer tools to help manage emotions and change negative thinking patterns.
Immediate Openings, No Waitlist! As a therapist, my ideal client is someone open to self-exploration and change, whether they're a teen facing the trials of growing up or a couple striving to strengthen their relationship. They may struggle with anxiety, self-esteem, or communication, and their goal is to achieve a sense of well-being. They seek a safe space to be heard and understood, as well as guidance to navigate life's challenges with resilience.
(360) 763-0992 View (360) 763-0992
Photo of Ara Greenfield, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ara Greenfield
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98663
I draw from Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I support clients through life transitions - including identity development, parenting, midlife changes, and loss - while holding a developmental lens that honors emotional complexity across the lifespan.
I draw from Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I support clients through life transitions - including identity development, parenting, midlife changes, and loss - while holding a developmental lens that honors emotional complexity across the lifespan.
(360) 505-7066 View (360) 505-7066
Photo of Kelly Ryan Garrett, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Kelly Ryan Garrett
Counselor, MA, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98683
With couples I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy and use Gottman research to help couples restore the ability to understand one another and solve problems effectively.
While I might be a trained guide, the wilderness of your life belongs to you and my goal is to help you find ways to live in it well. The counseling relationship is a collaboration that will help you uncover the patterns in your life that are simply not working, so together we can discover a new way forward. The focus of my work is with MEN, COUPLES, and YOUNG ADULTS dealing with Stress, Depression, Anger, Sexual Addiction, Life Transitions, and relationship issues.
With couples I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy and use Gottman research to help couples restore the ability to understand one another and solve problems effectively.
While I might be a trained guide, the wilderness of your life belongs to you and my goal is to help you find ways to live in it well. The counseling relationship is a collaboration that will help you uncover the patterns in your life that are simply not working, so together we can discover a new way forward. The focus of my work is with MEN, COUPLES, and YOUNG ADULTS dealing with Stress, Depression, Anger, Sexual Addiction, Life Transitions, and relationship issues.
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Photo of Shannon Kroenke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , MT-BC, CYT-200
Shannon Kroenke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , MT-BC, CYT-200
Online Only
My unique specialties include Guided Imagery and Music, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness/Yoga, DBT, EMDR/Brainspotting, Military trauma (I’m a Combat Vet myself), EFT/RLT (couples), and Internal Family Systems.
You deserve the very best therapist. Therapy isn’t easy to dive into, right? I get that! My 20 years of combined experience as a LICSW, Music Therapist, Somatic Yoga Teacher (for all body types) and Army Behavior Health Provider has given me rich experience with all sorts of unique people, and I’m not your cookie cutter therapist. I’ll be very real and authentic with you. I deeply appreciate pain and trauma, and how it can dismantle your life. You deserve to have the life you want again, and I’m committed to helping you get that back. Whether you’re a Combat Veteran, trauma victim, or couple who is struggling- I am here to help!
My unique specialties include Guided Imagery and Music, Somatic Experiencing, Mindfulness/Yoga, DBT, EMDR/Brainspotting, Military trauma (I’m a Combat Vet myself), EFT/RLT (couples), and Internal Family Systems.
You deserve the very best therapist. Therapy isn’t easy to dive into, right? I get that! My 20 years of combined experience as a LICSW, Music Therapist, Somatic Yoga Teacher (for all body types) and Army Behavior Health Provider has given me rich experience with all sorts of unique people, and I’m not your cookie cutter therapist. I’ll be very real and authentic with you. I deeply appreciate pain and trauma, and how it can dismantle your life. You deserve to have the life you want again, and I’m committed to helping you get that back. Whether you’re a Combat Veteran, trauma victim, or couple who is struggling- I am here to help!
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Photo of Heidi K Green, Psychologist, PsyD
Heidi K Green
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
Using a combination of cognitive, behavioral and emotionally focused therapy, I help clients develop the necessary tools to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, parenting issues, trauma healing, crisis intervention, life transitions, couples, & family therapy. I'm skilled in addressing self-esteem, empowerment, codependency, body image, boundaries, communication & healthy sexuality. I am also an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) treatment provider.
Using a combination of cognitive, behavioral and emotionally focused therapy, I help clients develop the necessary tools to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, parenting issues, trauma healing, crisis intervention, life transitions, couples, & family therapy. I'm skilled in addressing self-esteem, empowerment, codependency, body image, boundaries, communication & healthy sexuality. I am also an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) treatment provider.
(480) 376-1826 View (480) 376-1826
Photo of Scott Groseclose, MA, LMFT
Scott Groseclose
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
When working with couples, I utilize the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Online Only! I work together with my clients (individuals, couples, and families) to create goals and helps equip them with tools to continue to grow throughout the rest of their lives. I create a safe environment in order for my clients to be able to open up and find healing in all aspects of life. I enjoy working with couples who may be struggling in their relationship because I believe there is no problem large enough that we cannot work through. The same goes for families. The family is a fundamental building block in all of our relationships, through which all other relationships we may have can grow.
When working with couples, I utilize the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Online Only! I work together with my clients (individuals, couples, and families) to create goals and helps equip them with tools to continue to grow throughout the rest of their lives. I create a safe environment in order for my clients to be able to open up and find healing in all aspects of life. I enjoy working with couples who may be struggling in their relationship because I believe there is no problem large enough that we cannot work through. The same goes for families. The family is a fundamental building block in all of our relationships, through which all other relationships we may have can grow.
(360) 281-6824 View (360) 281-6824
Photo of Tyler Moore - Thriving Solutions, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Thriving Solutions
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
1 Endorsed
Online Only
An EFT session focuses on identifying negative patterns, exploring underlying emotions, and creating new, secure ways of connecting.
Every relationship faces challenges—but you don’t have to navigate them alone. In a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space, we’ll work together to deepen your connection, improve communication, and help you feel truly seen and heard within your relationships. Whether you're feeling stuck, drifting apart, or simply want to grow closer, couples therapy offers the tools and guidance to rebuild trust and reignite intimacy. Let’s turn struggle into thriving—together.
An EFT session focuses on identifying negative patterns, exploring underlying emotions, and creating new, secure ways of connecting.
Every relationship faces challenges—but you don’t have to navigate them alone. In a safe, supportive, and judgment-free space, we’ll work together to deepen your connection, improve communication, and help you feel truly seen and heard within your relationships. Whether you're feeling stuck, drifting apart, or simply want to grow closer, couples therapy offers the tools and guidance to rebuild trust and reignite intimacy. Let’s turn struggle into thriving—together.
(360) 512-2178 View (360) 512-2178
Photo of Marina Voilya, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Marina Voilya
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Vancouver, WA 98661
I use EMDR, ifs, eft, Gottman, and real life therapy.
Navigating life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re struggling with trauma or relationship issues. I provide a supportive and compassionate space where you can explore your experiences, heal from past wounds, and work toward building the life and relationships you desire. Whether you’re an individual seeking self-empowerment or a couple needing help to reconnect, I’m here to guide you through each step of your journey with understanding and care. Let’s work together to create lasting change.
I use EMDR, ifs, eft, Gottman, and real life therapy.
Navigating life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re struggling with trauma or relationship issues. I provide a supportive and compassionate space where you can explore your experiences, heal from past wounds, and work toward building the life and relationships you desire. Whether you’re an individual seeking self-empowerment or a couple needing help to reconnect, I’m here to guide you through each step of your journey with understanding and care. Let’s work together to create lasting change.
(360) 519-5305 View (360) 519-5305
Photo of Jennifer Vulgan, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate
Jennifer Vulgan
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
I’m a couples therapist specializing in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT).
Working with couples and individuals... Are you feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or stuck in the same arguments with your partner? It's incredibly frustrating and discouraging when you feel like you’re not being heard or understood in your relationship. If you’re struggling with communication, trust, or emotional distance, know that you’re not alone. I would be glad to come alongside you and your partner and help you get to a better place in your relationship.
I’m a couples therapist specializing in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT).
Working with couples and individuals... Are you feeling disconnected, misunderstood, or stuck in the same arguments with your partner? It's incredibly frustrating and discouraging when you feel like you’re not being heard or understood in your relationship. If you’re struggling with communication, trust, or emotional distance, know that you’re not alone. I would be glad to come alongside you and your partner and help you get to a better place in your relationship.
(360) 926-9187 x3 View (360) 926-9187 x3
Photo of Portia E Jones, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Portia E Jones
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Portia uses an eclectic holistic approach with a strong reliance on Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Portia believes that all can reach an optimal state of health and regardless of a person's circumstances, they should be viewed as creative, capable, and valuable individuals. We all experience life differently; therefore, her goal is to offer a safe and secure environment for individuals to experience healing, growth, and hope. As clients explore their issues, they begin to navigate those experiences and start making choices that will facilitate healthy change.
Portia uses an eclectic holistic approach with a strong reliance on Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Portia believes that all can reach an optimal state of health and regardless of a person's circumstances, they should be viewed as creative, capable, and valuable individuals. We all experience life differently; therefore, her goal is to offer a safe and secure environment for individuals to experience healing, growth, and hope. As clients explore their issues, they begin to navigate those experiences and start making choices that will facilitate healthy change.
(360) 328-7710 View (360) 328-7710
Photo of Meghann Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Meghann Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
I have thorough training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques.
Are you struggling with feeling alone, or having difficulty connecting with others? Do you often seem stuck with challenging thoughts or feelings? Are you/your family experiencing sudden, new challenges, with no way to successfully navigate them? I can help! I am an empathic, gentle, nerdy therapist that can help you feel more present in the moment, better connected with others, & actually enjoy life! I accept people with an extraordinary amount of compassion, just as they are, without judgment. It's important to me that the process is collaborative, and our sessions will be tailored to fit your specific needs, concerns, and goals.
I have thorough training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques.
Are you struggling with feeling alone, or having difficulty connecting with others? Do you often seem stuck with challenging thoughts or feelings? Are you/your family experiencing sudden, new challenges, with no way to successfully navigate them? I can help! I am an empathic, gentle, nerdy therapist that can help you feel more present in the moment, better connected with others, & actually enjoy life! I accept people with an extraordinary amount of compassion, just as they are, without judgment. It's important to me that the process is collaborative, and our sessions will be tailored to fit your specific needs, concerns, and goals.
(541) 264-5141 View (541) 264-5141
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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.