Emotionally Focused Counselling in Shenton Park, WA

Photo of Chelsea Bramich, MPsych, Psychologist
Chelsea Bramich
Psychologist, MPsych
Verified Verified
Shenton Park, WA 6008
Hi, I'm a clinical psychologist and I offer support to individuals and couples across the lifespan, and I welcome clients with a wide range of life experiences. I am particularly passionate about working with women and children. I have over 14 years’ experience that relates to mental health, youth, homelessness, substance use, LGBTIQ+ and research. I have experience working with presenting factors such as depression, anxiety, trauma, peri/post-natal/infant mental health, and interpersonal issues. I am trained in Interpersonal Therapy, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mentalisation Based Therapy.
Hi, I'm a clinical psychologist and I offer support to individuals and couples across the lifespan, and I welcome clients with a wide range of life experiences. I am particularly passionate about working with women and children. I have over 14 years’ experience that relates to mental health, youth, homelessness, substance use, LGBTIQ+ and research. I have experience working with presenting factors such as depression, anxiety, trauma, peri/post-natal/infant mental health, and interpersonal issues. I am trained in Interpersonal Therapy, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mentalisation Based Therapy.
(08) 6490 9745 View (08) 6490 9745
Photo of Jacinta Abuda, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jacinta Abuda
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Shenton Park, WA 6008
I am a Registered Psychologist with a passion for helping people reach their health and life goals. I have worked with adults looking to improve their confidence, mood, and anxiety. I have been privileged to work alongside people who are experiencing chronic health concerns, adjusting to life changes, neurodivergent presentations, and grief and loss. I have a special interest in working with people who have experienced domestic abuse and childhood trauma. I am dedicated to helping people find self-compassion, self-understanding, and access their inner strengths.
I am a Registered Psychologist with a passion for helping people reach their health and life goals. I have worked with adults looking to improve their confidence, mood, and anxiety. I have been privileged to work alongside people who are experiencing chronic health concerns, adjusting to life changes, neurodivergent presentations, and grief and loss. I have a special interest in working with people who have experienced domestic abuse and childhood trauma. I am dedicated to helping people find self-compassion, self-understanding, and access their inner strengths.
(08) 6493 7602 View (08) 6493 7602
Photo of Brian Allen - Brian Allen and Associates, MAPS, Psychologist
Brian Allen and Associates
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Shenton Park, WA 6008  (Online Only)
As a mature person I have the benefit of my own life experience as well as my many years of professional practice that I can draw upon. This has enabled me to help many people to improve the quality of their lives and their relationships and to cope with and overcome the traumas and challenges that life eventually presents to all of us.
As a mature person I have the benefit of my own life experience as well as my many years of professional practice that I can draw upon. This has enabled me to help many people to improve the quality of their lives and their relationships and to cope with and overcome the traumas and challenges that life eventually presents to all of us.
(08) 9121 1016 View (08) 9121 1016
Photo of Amanda Oliver, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Amanda Oliver
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shenton Park, WA 6008
I am a Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist specialising in adolescents & adults. Formerly a high school teacher, I have a natural ability to quickly develop relationships with teenagers and specialise in complex issues often affecting adolescents and their families. These issues often recur in adult relationships affecting daily life. By processing and understanding the past, it opens up a way to be able to move forward & improve current relations. I am passionate about not just alleviating symptoms but helping you to understand and resolve patterns of behaviour. Working together, we determine goals and the direction of your therapy.
I am a Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist specialising in adolescents & adults. Formerly a high school teacher, I have a natural ability to quickly develop relationships with teenagers and specialise in complex issues often affecting adolescents and their families. These issues often recur in adult relationships affecting daily life. By processing and understanding the past, it opens up a way to be able to move forward & improve current relations. I am passionate about not just alleviating symptoms but helping you to understand and resolve patterns of behaviour. Working together, we determine goals and the direction of your therapy.
(08) 7079 4452 View (08) 7079 4452
Photo of Dasha Lvov, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Dasha Lvov
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Shenton Park, WA 6008
I am a Registered Psychologist, having obtained my Psychology qualifications at the University of Melbourne and Murdoch University. My clinical experience commenced as a Behavioural Therapist working with children on the autism spectrum; then branching into high-complexity adult presentations in forensics, community alcohol and drug setting, trauma and private practice. I feel a sense of honour to be part of a therapeutic space where a person can feel safe to reflect, explore challenges, and recharge.
I am a Registered Psychologist, having obtained my Psychology qualifications at the University of Melbourne and Murdoch University. My clinical experience commenced as a Behavioural Therapist working with children on the autism spectrum; then branching into high-complexity adult presentations in forensics, community alcohol and drug setting, trauma and private practice. I feel a sense of honour to be part of a therapeutic space where a person can feel safe to reflect, explore challenges, and recharge.
(08) 6493 7205 View (08) 6493 7205
Photo of Hugo M Gonzales - COPE - Centre of Psychological Enrichment, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
COPE - Centre of Psychological Enrichment
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Shenton Park, WA 6008
COPE Centre is a multi-disciplinary practice that offers the highest level of psychological and mental health care, extending beyond the alleviation of symptoms. Our mission is to reduce emotional suffering and enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and society. We achieve this through the utilisation of psychoanalytic psychotherapy, a clinical approach that is both widely applicable and continuously evolving, providing a profound understanding of the human experience and fostering lasting change.
COPE Centre is a multi-disciplinary practice that offers the highest level of psychological and mental health care, extending beyond the alleviation of symptoms. Our mission is to reduce emotional suffering and enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and society. We achieve this through the utilisation of psychoanalytic psychotherapy, a clinical approach that is both widely applicable and continuously evolving, providing a profound understanding of the human experience and fostering lasting change.
(08) 7078 8301 View (08) 7078 8301
Photo of Deborah Wright - Perth Counselling & Psychotherapy Services, Psychotherapist
Perth Counselling & Psychotherapy Services
Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Shenton Park, WA 6008
I work with heterosexual, multiracial, same sex couples and individuals who are in a place of questioning or are seeking help with a specific situation or event. Couples may be wanting some "fine tuning" in specific areas of their relationship or they may be experiencing a crisis due to an infidelity or breakdown in communication and may be unsure if they can or even want to, stay together. Individuals may be ready to explore childhood issues, dealing with trauma or having an existential crisis. I teach Circle of Security an attachment based parent program for caregivers wanting to parent differently to their parents.
I work with heterosexual, multiracial, same sex couples and individuals who are in a place of questioning or are seeking help with a specific situation or event. Couples may be wanting some "fine tuning" in specific areas of their relationship or they may be experiencing a crisis due to an infidelity or breakdown in communication and may be unsure if they can or even want to, stay together. Individuals may be ready to explore childhood issues, dealing with trauma or having an existential crisis. I teach Circle of Security an attachment based parent program for caregivers wanting to parent differently to their parents.
(08) 7078 8285 View (08) 7078 8285
Photo of Joanne Lee, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Joanne Lee
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Shenton Park, WA 6008  (Online Only)
Joanne is an AHPRA registered Clinical Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Joanne works with adults of all ages and has extensive experience the areas of anxiety, mood disorders (including depression), adjustment to life transitions, chronic illness, pain management, trauma and grief and loss. Joanne believes in creating a safe emotional space whilst working alongside her clients to help them achieve meaningful change in their everyday life.
Joanne is an AHPRA registered Clinical Psychologist and a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS). Joanne works with adults of all ages and has extensive experience the areas of anxiety, mood disorders (including depression), adjustment to life transitions, chronic illness, pain management, trauma and grief and loss. Joanne believes in creating a safe emotional space whilst working alongside her clients to help them achieve meaningful change in their everyday life.
0420 476 871 View 0420 476 871
Photo of Stuart Burling - The Bear Counselling, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Stuart Burling - The Bear Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Shenton Park, WA 6008
If you are struggling, feeling lost, in conflict with yourself or loved ones, grieving or looking for meaning and purpose, please reach out. I aim to support people in need, to listen, and hold space for sharing difficult life experiences. I, too, have endured adversity, and in my darkest hours, I found the courage to reach out and seek the support I need. Through lived experience of addiction, suicide, FDV, narcissism, divorce, and parent alienation combined with expertise in counselling and specialist therapy knowledge, I focus on rebuilding lives and relationships, instilling hope when all seems lost.
If you are struggling, feeling lost, in conflict with yourself or loved ones, grieving or looking for meaning and purpose, please reach out. I aim to support people in need, to listen, and hold space for sharing difficult life experiences. I, too, have endured adversity, and in my darkest hours, I found the courage to reach out and seek the support I need. Through lived experience of addiction, suicide, FDV, narcissism, divorce, and parent alienation combined with expertise in counselling and specialist therapy knowledge, I focus on rebuilding lives and relationships, instilling hope when all seems lost.
(08) 6120 1781 View (08) 6120 1781

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Koutsoukos, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Stephanie Koutsoukos
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
Steph holds certification in EFT (Emotion Focussed Therapy), IPT (Interpersonal Therapy), FBT (Family Based Therapy) and IMR (Imagery Rescripting Therapy) for adults with childhood trauma.
Stephanie has experience supporting individuals, couples and families from all walks of life. Stephanie is passionate about providing a safe, insightful space for others, holding a belief that healthy connections foster growth. Integrating Psychodynamic, Attachment-focussed and Emotion-focussed therapies, Stephanie is attentive and creative in her approach. Steph is able to provide support to adults with childhood trauma, utilising IMR (Imagery Rescripting) and a trauma-informed approach.
Steph holds certification in EFT (Emotion Focussed Therapy), IPT (Interpersonal Therapy), FBT (Family Based Therapy) and IMR (Imagery Rescripting Therapy) for adults with childhood trauma.
Stephanie has experience supporting individuals, couples and families from all walks of life. Stephanie is passionate about providing a safe, insightful space for others, holding a belief that healthy connections foster growth. Integrating Psychodynamic, Attachment-focussed and Emotion-focussed therapies, Stephanie is attentive and creative in her approach. Steph is able to provide support to adults with childhood trauma, utilising IMR (Imagery Rescripting) and a trauma-informed approach.
(08) 7078 7829 View (08) 7078 7829
Photo of Dave Segal, PACFA, Counsellor
Dave Segal
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
For couples I use Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy which has the most evidence for success of all couples therapies.
I'm here to help you with the reason you've arrived at this page. What do you need? Is your relationship with your partner suffering? This can be common in new relationships but also after decades together. Perhaps you feel stuck and struggle to make personal change. You don't have to solve this one on your own, you might not feel like you can talk to a friend or partner. Your parent's don't seem to understand. Whatever your situation, connecting with a counsellor can be immensely beneficial. Bookings at davesegal.com
For couples I use Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy which has the most evidence for success of all couples therapies.
I'm here to help you with the reason you've arrived at this page. What do you need? Is your relationship with your partner suffering? This can be common in new relationships but also after decades together. Perhaps you feel stuck and struggle to make personal change. You don't have to solve this one on your own, you might not feel like you can talk to a friend or partner. Your parent's don't seem to understand. Whatever your situation, connecting with a counsellor can be immensely beneficial. Bookings at davesegal.com
(07) 4085 9014 View (07) 4085 9014
Photo of Barbara Zoroddu, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Barbara Zoroddu
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
I also specialise in EFT - Tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) an evidence-based stress reduction approach for the treatment of trauma, emotional dysregulation, physical pain.
I strongly believe that psychological support should be a possibility for everyone, not just a luxury for the few. I am a trained Counselling professional with a passion for helping women like you fall in love with their minds and bodies, live their true emotions and find new ways to improve their well-being. I can support you while you learn more about your emotions and bodily resources, discover how to increase your self-esteem and become more resilient by overcoming your limiting beliefs about your beautiful self.
I also specialise in EFT - Tapping (Emotional Freedom Techniques) an evidence-based stress reduction approach for the treatment of trauma, emotional dysregulation, physical pain.
I strongly believe that psychological support should be a possibility for everyone, not just a luxury for the few. I am a trained Counselling professional with a passion for helping women like you fall in love with their minds and bodies, live their true emotions and find new ways to improve their well-being. I can support you while you learn more about your emotions and bodily resources, discover how to increase your self-esteem and become more resilient by overcoming your limiting beliefs about your beautiful self.
(03) 7003 2118 View (03) 7003 2118
Photo of Helen Brittan - Nurturing Growth-Counselling, Psychotherapy, EMDR, MA, PACFA, Counsellor
Nurturing Growth-Counselling, Psychotherapy, EMDR
Counsellor, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Subiaco, WA 6008
Over my years of experience, I developed personalised approaches using elements of CBT, Schema Therapy, EFT, Memory Work, and EMDR to address trauma effectively.
We all face challenges that can leave us feeling anxious, sad, angry or depressed, disrupting our home, work & relationships. Chronic negative feelings can lead to overwhelm. Empathic support will help you make sense of your situation, manage difficult feelings & embark on your journey to freedom. With over 11 years of experience, I can support you to navigate and heal from these disruptions. My focus is on empowering women through life transitions such as pregnancy and parenting, healing from trauma & grief and rebuilding self-worth. Specialising in trauma recovery including PTSD, I use tailored strategies like EMDR therapy.
Over my years of experience, I developed personalised approaches using elements of CBT, Schema Therapy, EFT, Memory Work, and EMDR to address trauma effectively.
We all face challenges that can leave us feeling anxious, sad, angry or depressed, disrupting our home, work & relationships. Chronic negative feelings can lead to overwhelm. Empathic support will help you make sense of your situation, manage difficult feelings & embark on your journey to freedom. With over 11 years of experience, I can support you to navigate and heal from these disruptions. My focus is on empowering women through life transitions such as pregnancy and parenting, healing from trauma & grief and rebuilding self-worth. Specialising in trauma recovery including PTSD, I use tailored strategies like EMDR therapy.
(08) 6493 7950 View (08) 6493 7950
Photo of Dorte Dyrbye - Tap In Counselling Service, ACA-L3, Counsellor
Tap In Counselling Service
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
South Perth, WA 6151
“Stress, losses, and trauma create changes you don’t choose. Healing creates change you do choose” (adapted from Rosenthal). Dorte (Dee) at Tap In Counselling Service is a compassionate counsellor, whose broad experience strengthens her ability to adapt evidence-based approaches according to individual support and recovery needs. Dorte (Dee) supports adults and couples to discover and tap into their resources, strengths, and supports that guide enhanced wellbeing, desired changes, and healing. Individuals with BUPA and Australian Regional Health Group (ARHG) private health cover may be eligible to claim session rebates.
“Stress, losses, and trauma create changes you don’t choose. Healing creates change you do choose” (adapted from Rosenthal). Dorte (Dee) at Tap In Counselling Service is a compassionate counsellor, whose broad experience strengthens her ability to adapt evidence-based approaches according to individual support and recovery needs. Dorte (Dee) supports adults and couples to discover and tap into their resources, strengths, and supports that guide enhanced wellbeing, desired changes, and healing. Individuals with BUPA and Australian Regional Health Group (ARHG) private health cover may be eligible to claim session rebates.
(08) 6493 7783 View (08) 6493 7783
Photo of Roza Hammon, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Roza Hammon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Therapeutic approaches I find helpful in my work: EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing) therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy (including Emotional Freedom Techniques), Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy.
I am a registered psychologist, who provides trauma-informed, inclusive, supportive, safe, and non-judgemental support for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. In therapy I try to achieve strengths and values-based empowerment for my clients. Limited bulk billing options are available if you provide a Health Card/ Pensioner Card with a Mental Health Care Plan. I also work with clients via WorkCover referrals and NDIS participants who are self- or plan managed. Working in perinatal psychology/ mental health space is one of the areas of my interest.
Therapeutic approaches I find helpful in my work: EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing) therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Somatic Psychotherapy (including Emotional Freedom Techniques), Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy.
I am a registered psychologist, who provides trauma-informed, inclusive, supportive, safe, and non-judgemental support for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. In therapy I try to achieve strengths and values-based empowerment for my clients. Limited bulk billing options are available if you provide a Health Card/ Pensioner Card with a Mental Health Care Plan. I also work with clients via WorkCover referrals and NDIS participants who are self- or plan managed. Working in perinatal psychology/ mental health space is one of the areas of my interest.
(08) 7666 2681 View (08) 7666 2681
Photo of Michelle Zietsman, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Michelle Zietsman
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000
As a therapist, I offer Individual & Couples Therapy for Adults. Relationships encompass both hurt & healing. Establishing secure therapeutic connection fosters confidentiality, empathy, & understanding, facilitating change & solutions for personal issues. People possess the ability to solve problems, but this can be hindered by trauma, depression, anxiety, self-criticism, low self-esteem, relational conflict, or general life problems. I believe in every person's potential to explore their inner being, find courage, direct their lives & relationships meaningfully - ultimately, the cornerstone of our existence is meaning & purpose!
As a therapist, I offer Individual & Couples Therapy for Adults. Relationships encompass both hurt & healing. Establishing secure therapeutic connection fosters confidentiality, empathy, & understanding, facilitating change & solutions for personal issues. People possess the ability to solve problems, but this can be hindered by trauma, depression, anxiety, self-criticism, low self-esteem, relational conflict, or general life problems. I believe in every person's potential to explore their inner being, find courage, direct their lives & relationships meaningfully - ultimately, the cornerstone of our existence is meaning & purpose!
(08) 6219 3065 View (08) 6219 3065
Photo of Dr Pia Kavanagh - Dr Pia Kavanagh - Clinical Psychologist/Supervisor, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Dr Pia Kavanagh - Clinical Psychologist/Supervisor
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Mount Hawthorn, WA 6016
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor working in private practice. I work predominantly from a psychodynamic approach, helping patients develop a greater understanding of themselves and others, including relational dynamics and defence mechanisms. Through this deep exploration of themselves, patients can learn more about what holds them back and develop more helpful ways of responding. In addition to individual psychotherapy, I am also a Board-Approved Supervisor and have current availability for new supervisees.
I am a Clinical Psychologist and Board-Approved Supervisor working in private practice. I work predominantly from a psychodynamic approach, helping patients develop a greater understanding of themselves and others, including relational dynamics and defence mechanisms. Through this deep exploration of themselves, patients can learn more about what holds them back and develop more helpful ways of responding. In addition to individual psychotherapy, I am also a Board-Approved Supervisor and have current availability for new supervisees.
(08) 6490 9893 View (08) 6490 9893
Photo of Courtney Luftig, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Luftig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues? I'm Courtney, a therapist specializing in these areas, and I’m here to help you find a path forward. I offer individual and couples therapy tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll explore your emotions, behaviors, and relationships, working towards meaningful growth and lasting change. If you’re ready to transform your life, reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation. Let's begin your journey to a more fulfilling future.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues? I'm Courtney, a therapist specializing in these areas, and I’m here to help you find a path forward. I offer individual and couples therapy tailored to your unique needs. Together, we’ll explore your emotions, behaviors, and relationships, working towards meaningful growth and lasting change. If you’re ready to transform your life, reach out today for a free 15-minute consultation. Let's begin your journey to a more fulfilling future.
(02) 4214 4816 View (02) 4214 4816
Photo of Teresa Goddard, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Teresa Goddard
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
As a Clinical Psychologist I have experience working with a range of mental health issues, like depression and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, anger and stress management, difficulties with self-esteem and self-compassion, disordered eating habits, adjustment difficulties, chronic illness, sleep difficulties, trauma and work-related issues. I pride myself on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients of all ages and enjoy working from a person-centred and psychodynamic approach.
As a Clinical Psychologist I have experience working with a range of mental health issues, like depression and anxiety disorders, personality disorders, anger and stress management, difficulties with self-esteem and self-compassion, disordered eating habits, adjustment difficulties, chronic illness, sleep difficulties, trauma and work-related issues. I pride myself on establishing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients of all ages and enjoy working from a person-centred and psychodynamic approach.
(08) 6219 3860 View (08) 6219 3860
Photo of Samantha Ruckle - Sam Ruckle - Paper Crane Of Hope, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Sam Ruckle - Paper Crane Of Hope
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Perth, WA 6000  (Online Only)
Gees, life can feel pretty crap hey!? Especially for us- the gentle souls of the world. The introverts, INFJ’s, empaths, HSP’s… and maaaaybe perhaps, neurodivergent? Not only do we need to deal with our own crap- the stress, the trauma, the not fitting in… But we’re also overwhelmed and completely burnt out from feeling the world around us. It sucks when we feel misunderstood. It sucks even more when going about our day feels like walking through mud- because of the depression, anxiety, unprocessed trauma and grief. Let me tell you beautiful wonderful unique person- it doesn't need to remain this way!
Gees, life can feel pretty crap hey!? Especially for us- the gentle souls of the world. The introverts, INFJ’s, empaths, HSP’s… and maaaaybe perhaps, neurodivergent? Not only do we need to deal with our own crap- the stress, the trauma, the not fitting in… But we’re also overwhelmed and completely burnt out from feeling the world around us. It sucks when we feel misunderstood. It sucks even more when going about our day feels like walking through mud- because of the depression, anxiety, unprocessed trauma and grief. Let me tell you beautiful wonderful unique person- it doesn't need to remain this way!
(07) 5224 2058 View (07) 5224 2058

See more therapy options for Shenton Park

Emotionally Focused Counsellors

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.