Emotionally Focused Therapists in Aylmer, ON

Photo of Chrissy Court - Stone Haven Counselling, SSW, BAHons, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stone Haven Counselling
Registered Social Worker, SSW, BAHons, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Aylmer, ON N5H  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients - Life can be challenging and sometimes it feels like you are out of sync with what your life goals are. I am here to support you through challenges like anxiety, grief, depression, life transitions, relationships, and more.
Accepting New Clients - Life can be challenging and sometimes it feels like you are out of sync with what your life goals are. I am here to support you through challenges like anxiety, grief, depression, life transitions, relationships, and more.
(226) 773-4838 View (226) 773-4838
Photo of Lauren Beattie, MA, BA, CYW, Registered Psychotherapist
Lauren Beattie
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA, CYW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aylmer, ON N5H
You're just starting out, and no one told you it would be this difficult. You had hopes for this time in your life that are not turning out as you expected. Maybe your partner doesn't agree with setting boundaries with difficult family members. Maybe you're just trying to start your family and it's proving to be more difficult than you ever could have imagined. Maybe you are looking to learn how to express your needs, desires, and concerns with clarity and compassion while fostering open and honest conversations.
You're just starting out, and no one told you it would be this difficult. You had hopes for this time in your life that are not turning out as you expected. Maybe your partner doesn't agree with setting boundaries with difficult family members. Maybe you're just trying to start your family and it's proving to be more difficult than you ever could have imagined. Maybe you are looking to learn how to express your needs, desires, and concerns with clarity and compassion while fostering open and honest conversations.
(226) 917-2738 View (226) 917-2738
Photo of Katherine Dimoff - Insight Counselling Elgin, Registered Psychotherapist
Insight Counselling Elgin
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aylmer, ON N5H
You’re exhausted with all that life has thrown at you. The strategies you’ve used before no longer work or have somehow made things worse. You need support and a new perspective. You have a busy life and don’t have the time to drive all over the place trying desperately to connect with a therapist. Or maybe you've been to therapy but have just never found the right 'fit'. You really need a therapist who won't just throw solutions at you but will help you truly get the heart of your struggles. You’ve come to the right place. You can find the support you need here – for yourself, for you and your partner, or even for your child.
You’re exhausted with all that life has thrown at you. The strategies you’ve used before no longer work or have somehow made things worse. You need support and a new perspective. You have a busy life and don’t have the time to drive all over the place trying desperately to connect with a therapist. Or maybe you've been to therapy but have just never found the right 'fit'. You really need a therapist who won't just throw solutions at you but will help you truly get the heart of your struggles. You’ve come to the right place. You can find the support you need here – for yourself, for you and your partner, or even for your child.
(226) 887-2861 View (226) 887-2861
Photo of Sydney McGillis, MA, MPH, RN, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sydney McGillis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, MPH, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aylmer, ON N5H
Accepting new clients! I am a qualifying member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with an MA in Counselling Psychology and Master’s in Public Health. I have been working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a variety of settings, from palliative care to public health, since 2016. I have always had a desire and passion to work with people to better support their wellness, prioritizing the connections we make with one another and how these shape our experiences in life. This passion has led me to become a therapist as I have greatly appreciated and grown from my own experiences with my mental wellbeing journey.
Accepting new clients! I am a qualifying member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario with an MA in Counselling Psychology and Master’s in Public Health. I have been working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a variety of settings, from palliative care to public health, since 2016. I have always had a desire and passion to work with people to better support their wellness, prioritizing the connections we make with one another and how these shape our experiences in life. This passion has led me to become a therapist as I have greatly appreciated and grown from my own experiences with my mental wellbeing journey.
(226) 241-9887 View (226) 241-9887
Photo of Emily Rice, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Emily Rice
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aylmer, ON N5H
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients for August 2024! I offer individual and couples therapy both in-person and online. I want to thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Here is a little bit about my beliefs and therapeutic approach. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and an innate ability to make desired changes in their lives. Sometimes, that ability can become obscured or hindered by trauma, anxiety, or stress. I am here to help you rediscover that ability, move through your pain, and walk alongside you on your path of self-healing.
Welcome! I am currently accepting new clients for August 2024! I offer individual and couples therapy both in-person and online. I want to thank you for taking the time to read my profile. Here is a little bit about my beliefs and therapeutic approach. I believe that everyone has the potential for growth and an innate ability to make desired changes in their lives. Sometimes, that ability can become obscured or hindered by trauma, anxiety, or stress. I am here to help you rediscover that ability, move through your pain, and walk alongside you on your path of self-healing.
(343) 312-7419 View (343) 312-7419
Photo of Kris Bannerman - Kris Bannerman Therapy & Yoga, MSW, RSW, RYT, Registered Social Worker
Kris Bannerman Therapy & Yoga
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Aylmer, ON N5H
We Would Be a Good Fit If: You’re seeking a relatable, genuine, and non-judgmental space for you to be you, cultivating a safe place for change and growth to occur; You’re looking to build insights into your own behaviour and experiences; understand root causes to address challenges and create new opportunities; You’ve experienced trauma or loss and would like to integrate healing by learning coping strategies, mindfulness and grounding techniques; You would like to live your best life in alignment of your personal goals and values
We Would Be a Good Fit If: You’re seeking a relatable, genuine, and non-judgmental space for you to be you, cultivating a safe place for change and growth to occur; You’re looking to build insights into your own behaviour and experiences; understand root causes to address challenges and create new opportunities; You’ve experienced trauma or loss and would like to integrate healing by learning coping strategies, mindfulness and grounding techniques; You would like to live your best life in alignment of your personal goals and values
(226) 779-4249 View (226) 779-4249
Photo of Katherine Dimoff, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Katherine Dimoff
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Aylmer, ON N5H
You’ve lost your way. You’re not the parent or partner you want to be. Reactions come quickly and regrets soon follow. Solutions aren’t coming as easily as they used to, and you alternate between anxiousness and despair. Some days you feel okay and others, like today, you admit that maybe you need a different approach. It feels as if you’ve lost hope and faith in your ability to cope with the many stresses that have come your way. A challenging teen. A relationship conflict. A loss. And so, you find yourself here, contemplating this next step. You’ve come to the right place. Welcome to Insight Counselling Elgin.
You’ve lost your way. You’re not the parent or partner you want to be. Reactions come quickly and regrets soon follow. Solutions aren’t coming as easily as they used to, and you alternate between anxiousness and despair. Some days you feel okay and others, like today, you admit that maybe you need a different approach. It feels as if you’ve lost hope and faith in your ability to cope with the many stresses that have come your way. A challenging teen. A relationship conflict. A loss. And so, you find yourself here, contemplating this next step. You’ve come to the right place. Welcome to Insight Counselling Elgin.
(226) 840-2133 View (226) 840-2133
Photo of Cynthia Herr, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Cynthia Herr
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aylmer, ON N5H
Accepting new clients! Are you living with chronic pain, or other chronic illnesses? Are depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health issues unwelcome guests in your life? Does it feel overwhelming just getting through the day? Are you frustrated because, despite treatment and your best efforts, you continue to struggle? Perhaps you are a family member struggling to support your loved one. Health issues can be overwhelming, unpredictable, and can take a toll on relationships. To complicate matters, finding appropriate health care is challenging, and accessing treatment can be difficult and frustrating. We can help.
Accepting new clients! Are you living with chronic pain, or other chronic illnesses? Are depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health issues unwelcome guests in your life? Does it feel overwhelming just getting through the day? Are you frustrated because, despite treatment and your best efforts, you continue to struggle? Perhaps you are a family member struggling to support your loved one. Health issues can be overwhelming, unpredictable, and can take a toll on relationships. To complicate matters, finding appropriate health care is challenging, and accessing treatment can be difficult and frustrating. We can help.
(226) 271-1387 View (226) 271-1387
Photo of Kristen McKinnon, MC:AT, DVATI, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Kristen McKinnon
Registered Psychotherapist, MC:AT, DVATI, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aylmer, ON N5H
I believe in the innate goodness of people and the power of connection to influence positive change. My focus is to help you grow authentically and holistically so you feel as though you are thriving, not just surviving. I have a special passion for working with individuals navigating life transitions, new and expecting mothers, and those experiencing difficulties with anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, interpersonal conflicts, concussion management, and self-esteem. I believe through building stronger, healthier, and more connected individuals and families we can create a positive a ripple-effect in our society.
I believe in the innate goodness of people and the power of connection to influence positive change. My focus is to help you grow authentically and holistically so you feel as though you are thriving, not just surviving. I have a special passion for working with individuals navigating life transitions, new and expecting mothers, and those experiencing difficulties with anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, interpersonal conflicts, concussion management, and self-esteem. I believe through building stronger, healthier, and more connected individuals and families we can create a positive a ripple-effect in our society.
(226) 773-1909 View (226) 773-1909
Photo of Rachel Koetsier, RP, MDiv
Rachel Koetsier
RP, MDiv
Verified Verified
Aylmer, ON N5H
Not accepting new clients
Welcome to my virtual space, I'm glad you stopped by. I know it can be daunting to consider going to therapy. Maybe you're feeling stuck, scared, or lonely. Or, you're wanting freedom and relief from symptoms of anxiety or depression. Maybe an important relationship has broken down and you aren't sure how to trust anymore. Perhaps you're grieving the loss of a special person, or season in your life. I'm here to help. It is my mission to create a safe place for all clients. I am excited to be able to offer online counselling, which gives you the freedom to be able to have a counselling session from the comfort of your own home.
Welcome to my virtual space, I'm glad you stopped by. I know it can be daunting to consider going to therapy. Maybe you're feeling stuck, scared, or lonely. Or, you're wanting freedom and relief from symptoms of anxiety or depression. Maybe an important relationship has broken down and you aren't sure how to trust anymore. Perhaps you're grieving the loss of a special person, or season in your life. I'm here to help. It is my mission to create a safe place for all clients. I am excited to be able to offer online counselling, which gives you the freedom to be able to have a counselling session from the comfort of your own home.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julie Ann Willsie, BSc, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Julie Ann Willsie
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belmont, ON N0L
If you are struggling day to day with general life issues and lack of motivation, drive, and ambition I would like to connect with you. If you feel you have symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and/or difficulty managing your emotions we can work together to identify the issues that are bothering you and work together to set goals and make a plan to achieve them. I am an eclectic therapist, using tools from many different therapies and theories. I like to take the approach of looking forward to make changes in life rather than dwelling too long on the past. If this suits you, send me a message!
If you are struggling day to day with general life issues and lack of motivation, drive, and ambition I would like to connect with you. If you feel you have symptoms of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and/or difficulty managing your emotions we can work together to identify the issues that are bothering you and work together to set goals and make a plan to achieve them. I am an eclectic therapist, using tools from many different therapies and theories. I like to take the approach of looking forward to make changes in life rather than dwelling too long on the past. If this suits you, send me a message!
(226) 799-5080 View (226) 799-5080

Online Therapists

Photo of Katherine Tomkinson, BASc, MSc, RP, RMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine Tomkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, BASc, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G
I have been an individual, couple and family therapist and clinical supervisor in family service agencies and private practice for over twenty-five years. These experiences have provided me with the skills necessary to help people dealing with a diverse range of life's challenges. I have worked successfully with individuals, couples and families struggling with physical and mental illnesses, addictions, trauma, grief and loss, affairs, separation and divorce as well as other family stresses.
I have been an individual, couple and family therapist and clinical supervisor in family service agencies and private practice for over twenty-five years. These experiences have provided me with the skills necessary to help people dealing with a diverse range of life's challenges. I have worked successfully with individuals, couples and families struggling with physical and mental illnesses, addictions, trauma, grief and loss, affairs, separation and divorce as well as other family stresses.
(855) 780-2471 View (855) 780-2471
Photo of Debbie Wagler, RP, CCC, MA, BEd, OCT, Registered Psychotherapist
Debbie Wagler
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, MA, BEd, OCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
I integrate play-based, trauma-informed (EMDR and TFCBT), and attachment approaches (EFT), Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy, tools from CBT and DBT, and good old “listening.
Are you longing for close connections with your loved ones, but something seems to jumble up your messages to one another, driving you apart? If you’re a parent, is your child or teen pulling back or acting out, leaving you unsure how to reach them? Do you catch yourself going through the motions to please or care for everyone around you, but losing sight of your own needs and voice along the way? Are hurts from trauma or grief clinging to you, overwhelming you, or making it hard to thrive?
I integrate play-based, trauma-informed (EMDR and TFCBT), and attachment approaches (EFT), Spiritually Integrated Psychotherapy, tools from CBT and DBT, and good old “listening.
Are you longing for close connections with your loved ones, but something seems to jumble up your messages to one another, driving you apart? If you’re a parent, is your child or teen pulling back or acting out, leaving you unsure how to reach them? Do you catch yourself going through the motions to please or care for everyone around you, but losing sight of your own needs and voice along the way? Are hurts from trauma or grief clinging to you, overwhelming you, or making it hard to thrive?
(226) 840-3203 View (226) 840-3203
Photo of Rocheny Alexandre - Rocheny Alexandre, MSW,RSW Social Worker, Psychoth, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rocheny Alexandre, MSW,RSW Social Worker, Psychoth
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5G  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I use several therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy, emotional focus therapy (EFT), and more.
As a mental health therapist, I help people experiencing distress enhance their sense of personal wellbeing and overall happiness. Over the years I have worked with adults, youth and families experiencing struggles with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, stress, relationship conflict, divorce and unresolved family issues.
In my practice, I use several therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy, emotional focus therapy (EFT), and more.
As a mental health therapist, I help people experiencing distress enhance their sense of personal wellbeing and overall happiness. Over the years I have worked with adults, youth and families experiencing struggles with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, stress, relationship conflict, divorce and unresolved family issues.
(289) 272-7331 View (289) 272-7331
Photo of Portia Zaffaroni, CEC, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Portia Zaffaroni
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), CEC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamilton, ON L8S  (Online Only)
My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, validation and curiosity using a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT).
I work with individuals and couples to improve their well-being, and re-connect with themselves and their loved ones on a deeper emotional level. I use a practical and direct approach to explore your unique experiences, determine your strengths and find techniques and solutions that take into account the moving parts in your life.
My therapeutic style is rooted in compassion, validation and curiosity using a combination of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT).
I work with individuals and couples to improve their well-being, and re-connect with themselves and their loved ones on a deeper emotional level. I use a practical and direct approach to explore your unique experiences, determine your strengths and find techniques and solutions that take into account the moving parts in your life.
(365) 363-2078 View (365) 363-2078
Photo of Areej Khan, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Areej Khan
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakville, ON L6M
Khan is trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Productive Emotional Processing, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).
Dr. Khan has completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. She provides assessment and therapy services for children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health concerns. She has worked with children and adolescents with intellectual problems, academic difficulties, attention and hyperactivity concerns, learning problems, parent-child relationship concerns, and behaviour issues. Dr. Khan has completed the necessary supervised practice requirements to register with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and is currently providing assessment and therapy services under supervision.
Khan is trained in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Productive Emotional Processing, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, and Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).
Dr. Khan has completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. She provides assessment and therapy services for children, adolescents, and adults with various mental health concerns. She has worked with children and adolescents with intellectual problems, academic difficulties, attention and hyperactivity concerns, learning problems, parent-child relationship concerns, and behaviour issues. Dr. Khan has completed the necessary supervised practice requirements to register with the College of Psychologists of Ontario and is currently providing assessment and therapy services under supervision.
(289) 302-2543 View (289) 302-2543
Photo of Erin Harvey, MA, Student, Intern, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Erin Harvey
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, Student, Intern
Verified Verified
Tillsonburg, ON N4G
Aligned in therapy, and through the Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach, we can build the capacity to tend to our relationships, learn about ourselves, redefine the roles and ideas within a family, and to access the resources to improve our quality of life.
Welcome! My name is Erin, and I am a therapist at Counselling & Co. I have dedicated much of my life to supporting individuals and families as they journey through the trials life can pose. When we are strengthened and supported in counselling, we are better able to cope with life transitions, traumas, and support ourselves as we support others. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I aim to use my knowledge and experience to help with life challenges in a way that is meaningful and catered for you.
Aligned in therapy, and through the Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) approach, we can build the capacity to tend to our relationships, learn about ourselves, redefine the roles and ideas within a family, and to access the resources to improve our quality of life.
Welcome! My name is Erin, and I am a therapist at Counselling & Co. I have dedicated much of my life to supporting individuals and families as they journey through the trials life can pose. When we are strengthened and supported in counselling, we are better able to cope with life transitions, traumas, and support ourselves as we support others. As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I aim to use my knowledge and experience to help with life challenges in a way that is meaningful and catered for you.
(226) 918-5120 View (226) 918-5120
Photo of Abeer Faruqui, MA, BSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Abeer Faruqui
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BSc
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M  (Online Only)
For individual therapy, I utilize a combination of CBT, DBT, EFT and other methods to meet your specific needs.
It's common to feel overwhelmed when you are going through a challenging time. But you don’t have to tackle it alone! Through individual and couples psychotherapy, I provide a non-judgemental, warm and supportive space for you to explore and untangle your thoughts and feelings. Depending on your goals therapy can also provide guidance and teach you life-long skills, such as better communication in your relationships or tools for personal mental wellness.
For individual therapy, I utilize a combination of CBT, DBT, EFT and other methods to meet your specific needs.
It's common to feel overwhelmed when you are going through a challenging time. But you don’t have to tackle it alone! Through individual and couples psychotherapy, I provide a non-judgemental, warm and supportive space for you to explore and untangle your thoughts and feelings. Depending on your goals therapy can also provide guidance and teach you life-long skills, such as better communication in your relationships or tools for personal mental wellness.
(365) 800-5586 View (365) 800-5586
Photo of Hanna Watkins, MSc, RP, RMFT, Registered Psychotherapist
Hanna Watkins
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterdown, ON L0R
I weave together several modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness approaches and parts work (IFS informed).
Do you find yourself stuck in the same patterns, struggling to find better ways to address situations even though you know what you're doing isn't working? By focusing on relationships and attachment, I can help you get unstuck, and gain greater insight into why you do what you do, and what else might be helpful. Navigate and heal the burdens you carry. Move forward from painful dynamics. Be the best person you can be. Build the kind of relationships you desire. As a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Psychotherapist, I offer individual therapy, couples counselling, and family therapy (18+).
I weave together several modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness approaches and parts work (IFS informed).
Do you find yourself stuck in the same patterns, struggling to find better ways to address situations even though you know what you're doing isn't working? By focusing on relationships and attachment, I can help you get unstuck, and gain greater insight into why you do what you do, and what else might be helpful. Navigate and heal the burdens you carry. Move forward from painful dynamics. Be the best person you can be. Build the kind of relationships you desire. As a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Psychotherapist, I offer individual therapy, couples counselling, and family therapy (18+).
(289) 807-2739 View (289) 807-2739
Photo of Mitchell Brant, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mitchell Brant
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
London, ON N6B
I also weave in EMDR, narrative therapy, IFS and EFT into my work.
Facing loss, sorrow and grief can be so isolating. It can be hard to know where to turn, and often times a mainstream approach won't help. If you've faced trauma, loss, depression, grief, or struggle with your self-esteem or identity, I understand. I am sure that you want to feel deeper connections to yourself and others. You want to feel free and hopeful. You want to make meaning of loss and allow it to move you forward in a healthy way. You want to let go of traumatic responses that keep you stuck. Perhaps you're looking for healing methods that incorporate more than just talk therapy. I see you, and know that I can help you heal.
I also weave in EMDR, narrative therapy, IFS and EFT into my work.
Facing loss, sorrow and grief can be so isolating. It can be hard to know where to turn, and often times a mainstream approach won't help. If you've faced trauma, loss, depression, grief, or struggle with your self-esteem or identity, I understand. I am sure that you want to feel deeper connections to yourself and others. You want to feel free and hopeful. You want to make meaning of loss and allow it to move you forward in a healthy way. You want to let go of traumatic responses that keep you stuck. Perhaps you're looking for healing methods that incorporate more than just talk therapy. I see you, and know that I can help you heal.
(226) 270-0506 View (226) 270-0506

See more therapy options for Aylmer

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.