Emotionally Focused Therapists in St Thomas, ON

Photo of Ramona Walmsley - Banman Psychotherapy, MDiv, RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Banman Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MDiv, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
I use EFT, CBT, and trauma-informed therapy (EMDR).
Hi! My name is Ramona Walmsley. I understand life and relationships can be complicated and at times we can find ourselves in a place where we are unsure of how to proceed. I believe that you are the expert of your own story, and there is hope and direction for your life. I offer a space to feel seen, heard and supported as we work collaboratively towards your goals. I work with a variety of presenting concerns from stress and life transitions to anxiety and trauma. I have additional training in trauma, grief and marital counselling.
I use EFT, CBT, and trauma-informed therapy (EMDR).
Hi! My name is Ramona Walmsley. I understand life and relationships can be complicated and at times we can find ourselves in a place where we are unsure of how to proceed. I believe that you are the expert of your own story, and there is hope and direction for your life. I offer a space to feel seen, heard and supported as we work collaboratively towards your goals. I work with a variety of presenting concerns from stress and life transitions to anxiety and trauma. I have additional training in trauma, grief and marital counselling.
(226) 243-0584 View (226) 243-0584
Photo of Rachel Collins, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rachel Collins
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping teens and parents achieve greater connection, stronger relationships, and healthier lives using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
As a parent, do you wonder how best to support the emotional needs of your teen or how to get them to open up to you? Do you dream of a closer, deeper relationship with your teen but you aren’t sure how to get there when it feels like they’re pushing you away? If your teen is experiencing difficulties in relationships with friends or family members, emotions that feel overwhelming or out of control, or difficulty making healthy decisions, let's talk about how I can help.
I specialize in helping teens and parents achieve greater connection, stronger relationships, and healthier lives using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
As a parent, do you wonder how best to support the emotional needs of your teen or how to get them to open up to you? Do you dream of a closer, deeper relationship with your teen but you aren’t sure how to get there when it feels like they’re pushing you away? If your teen is experiencing difficulties in relationships with friends or family members, emotions that feel overwhelming or out of control, or difficulty making healthy decisions, let's talk about how I can help.
(226) 778-2036 View (226) 778-2036
Photo of Sarah McCallum, MSc, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah McCallum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
Waitlist for new clients
This hectic and at times uncertain life can feel overwhelming. When we lack grounding and direction it can feel like we will lose control of our emotions and ourselves. I practice counseling from a non-judgmental and acceptance based perspective where we can use your strengths, past lived experiences and new skills developed during the therapeutic relationship to move through the hard times and achieve your goals. My approach is to support you to identify the habits and patterns in relationships with yourself and others that may not be serving you and with this new awareness move towards your valued goals. EFT and EMDR Certified.
This hectic and at times uncertain life can feel overwhelming. When we lack grounding and direction it can feel like we will lose control of our emotions and ourselves. I practice counseling from a non-judgmental and acceptance based perspective where we can use your strengths, past lived experiences and new skills developed during the therapeutic relationship to move through the hard times and achieve your goals. My approach is to support you to identify the habits and patterns in relationships with yourself and others that may not be serving you and with this new awareness move towards your valued goals. EFT and EMDR Certified.
(226) 894-8364 View (226) 894-8364
Photo of Kelly Appleby - Kelly Appleby Counselling and Psychotherapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kelly Appleby Counselling and Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5P
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training and knowledge in trauma and utilize various evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic Experiencing.
Life isn’t always easy. It can be hard, painful and even traumatic at times. Trauma and difficult life experiences can create challenges in many areas of life - it’s not uncommon to struggle with managing thoughts and emotions, relationships, and responsibilities. We do our best to lean on past ways of coping to help us through, and sometimes must acknowledge when more help is needed. Whether you struggle with emotional issues (anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger, low self-esteem), addiction, grief and loss, or relationship/family issues, I would welcome the opportunity to support your desire for authentic personal growth and healing.
I have extensive training and knowledge in trauma and utilize various evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic Experiencing.
Life isn’t always easy. It can be hard, painful and even traumatic at times. Trauma and difficult life experiences can create challenges in many areas of life - it’s not uncommon to struggle with managing thoughts and emotions, relationships, and responsibilities. We do our best to lean on past ways of coping to help us through, and sometimes must acknowledge when more help is needed. Whether you struggle with emotional issues (anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger, low self-esteem), addiction, grief and loss, or relationship/family issues, I would welcome the opportunity to support your desire for authentic personal growth and healing.
(226) 640-5262 View (226) 640-5262
Photo of Bryanne Noel, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Bryanne Noel
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P  (Online Only)
I incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
I offer online sessions exclusively through a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. I am a Registered Social Worker with over 8 years of experience in mental health, supporting individuals, youth, and families. My passion lies in helping people navigate mental health crises, particularly those dealing with depression and persistent suicidal ideation. I am committed to destigmatizing thoughts of suicide and exploring their root causes, including underlying trauma and experiences of inequality and oppression. I have a special interest in assisting those who struggle with body image concerns and disordered eating.
I incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, DBT, and Motivational Interviewing.
I offer online sessions exclusively through a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services. I am a Registered Social Worker with over 8 years of experience in mental health, supporting individuals, youth, and families. My passion lies in helping people navigate mental health crises, particularly those dealing with depression and persistent suicidal ideation. I am committed to destigmatizing thoughts of suicide and exploring their root causes, including underlying trauma and experiences of inequality and oppression. I have a special interest in assisting those who struggle with body image concerns and disordered eating.
(343) 500-7295 View (343) 500-7295
Photo of Mitchell Brant, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Mitchell Brant
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5P
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
Photo of Lauren Giugno, MA , RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Lauren Giugno
Registered Psychotherapist, MA , RP, CCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
I am trained in Acceptance and commitment (ACT), Cognitive behavioural(CBT), Narrative and Emotion-focused therapy( EFT), and have worked with a wide range of individuals.
As human beings we may feel lost/stuck due to painful or challenging life experiences. This can impact our ability to live our lives fully. I am passionate about working with individuals who have concerns around stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationships, grief, and life transitions/work-life balance. Support may look different for each person, while some may want to focus on building coping strategies, others may seek a deeper healing process. One of our first steps will be building awareness of your needs, the change you want in your life and identifying your goals to make this change possible.
I am trained in Acceptance and commitment (ACT), Cognitive behavioural(CBT), Narrative and Emotion-focused therapy( EFT), and have worked with a wide range of individuals.
As human beings we may feel lost/stuck due to painful or challenging life experiences. This can impact our ability to live our lives fully. I am passionate about working with individuals who have concerns around stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, relationships, grief, and life transitions/work-life balance. Support may look different for each person, while some may want to focus on building coping strategies, others may seek a deeper healing process. One of our first steps will be building awareness of your needs, the change you want in your life and identifying your goals to make this change possible.
(226) 796-6299 View (226) 796-6299
Photo of Elizabeth Townsend, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Elizabeth Townsend
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
My primary approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I believe relationships and connections are foundational to our mental health and well-being. When we feel connected to others we are better able to explore, heal, and adapt. My goal is to support people at any age with learning new skills, exploring emotions, and sharing experiences. When working with me you can expect an open, warm, and non-judgmental perspective.
My primary approaches include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I believe relationships and connections are foundational to our mental health and well-being. When we feel connected to others we are better able to explore, heal, and adapt. My goal is to support people at any age with learning new skills, exploring emotions, and sharing experiences. When working with me you can expect an open, warm, and non-judgmental perspective.
(226) 756-0053 View (226) 756-0053
Photo of Hollie Lauzon - Child Youth Adult Psychotherapy, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Hollie Lauzon - Child Youth Adult Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
St Thomas, ON N5R
If you've found yourself reading this I can only imagine you must be feeling completely overtaken by daily stress, struggling with your relationships, or simply trying to find your footing during big life changes. Maybe you're a parent watching your child face challenges, or you’re seeking guidance to manage your own emotions better. You're looking for ways to feel balanced, clear-headed, and supported—somewhere you can unpack it all without being judged. As a certified social worker and psychotherapist, I specialize in emotional intelligence across all ages—kids, teens, and adults.
If you've found yourself reading this I can only imagine you must be feeling completely overtaken by daily stress, struggling with your relationships, or simply trying to find your footing during big life changes. Maybe you're a parent watching your child face challenges, or you’re seeking guidance to manage your own emotions better. You're looking for ways to feel balanced, clear-headed, and supported—somewhere you can unpack it all without being judged. As a certified social worker and psychotherapist, I specialize in emotional intelligence across all ages—kids, teens, and adults.
(226) 455-8254 View (226) 455-8254
Photo of Katherine Dimoff, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Katherine Dimoff
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
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.
(519) 914-1142 View (519) 914-1142
Photo of Tiana Cortina, BASc, OCGC, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist
Tiana Cortina
Registered Psychotherapist, BASc, OCGC, MACP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
Feeling overwhelmed by emotions, thoughts, and circumstances? If you’re having more “bad” days than good and struggling to cope, you don’t have to face this alone. For children, it might feel like school or social pressures are too much, while adults may be dealing with work stress, relationship or family issues, or life changes. Whether you're a child or an adult, I offer a warm, supportive space to explore these challenges. Together, we can find effective ways to manage stress, rebuild resilience, and navigate your path to a brighter, more balanced life.
Feeling overwhelmed by emotions, thoughts, and circumstances? If you’re having more “bad” days than good and struggling to cope, you don’t have to face this alone. For children, it might feel like school or social pressures are too much, while adults may be dealing with work stress, relationship or family issues, or life changes. Whether you're a child or an adult, I offer a warm, supportive space to explore these challenges. Together, we can find effective ways to manage stress, rebuild resilience, and navigate your path to a brighter, more balanced life.
(226) 457-6898 View (226) 457-6898
Photo of Katherine Dimoff - Insight Counselling Elgin, Registered Psychotherapist
Insight Counselling Elgin
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
You’re exhausted from all that life has thrown at you lately. The strategies you’ve used before are just not cutting it anymore. You need support and a new perspective. You're here now, searching for a therapist who can provide some hope and encouragement. Maybe you've been to therapy before 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 from all that life has thrown at you lately. The strategies you’ve used before are just not cutting it anymore. You need support and a new perspective. You're here now, searching for a therapist who can provide some hope and encouragement. Maybe you've been to therapy before 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.
(519) 914-1142 View (519) 914-1142
Photo of Sharan Bhullar - Sharan Bhullar (Insight Counselling Elgin) , BA Hons, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sharan Bhullar (Insight Counselling Elgin)
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA Hons, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
Imagine yourself standing at a crossroads, feeling the weight of your past and the uncertainty of what lies ahead. You might be longing to embrace your true self—flaws, stories, and all—but are struggling to break free from the expectations and pressures surrounding you. Whether you're going through a major life transition, adapting to a new environment, or searching for where you truly belong, the journey can feel overwhelming. Within this challenge, there’s a powerful opportunity for transformation.
Imagine yourself standing at a crossroads, feeling the weight of your past and the uncertainty of what lies ahead. You might be longing to embrace your true self—flaws, stories, and all—but are struggling to break free from the expectations and pressures surrounding you. Whether you're going through a major life transition, adapting to a new environment, or searching for where you truly belong, the journey can feel overwhelming. Within this challenge, there’s a powerful opportunity for transformation.
(226) 499-6737 View (226) 499-6737
Photo of Lauren Beattie, MA, BA, CYW, Registered Psychotherapist
Lauren Beattie
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA, CYW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
Sometimes, the chapters that are intended to be the best years of our lives end up being some of the hardest. You are not alone. This unexpected turn of events can create emotional distress, impacting your relationships and shifting your perception of who you are. 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.
Sometimes, the chapters that are intended to be the best years of our lives end up being some of the hardest. You are not alone. This unexpected turn of events can create emotional distress, impacting your relationships and shifting your perception of who you are. 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 Steve Didham, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Steve Didham
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
As a Social Worker, I provide a safe space for individuals to open up about their challenges, utilizing a variety of therapeutic strategies and interventions to help elevate people's lives so they can have better opportunities to live an authentic and fulfilling life. My lived experiences are incorporated into my clinical work to support others in connecting “head to heart” in challenging and dismantling the many social constructs people often feel they need to uphold. As you begin to lean into the vulnerability of speaking your truth, the awakening journey begins.
As a Social Worker, I provide a safe space for individuals to open up about their challenges, utilizing a variety of therapeutic strategies and interventions to help elevate people's lives so they can have better opportunities to live an authentic and fulfilling life. My lived experiences are incorporated into my clinical work to support others in connecting “head to heart” in challenging and dismantling the many social constructs people often feel they need to uphold. As you begin to lean into the vulnerability of speaking your truth, the awakening journey begins.
(226) 406-8959 View (226) 406-8959
Photo of Sondra Budd, BA, MA(P), RP(Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sondra Budd
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MA(P), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R  (Online Only)
When we're already going through difficult and painful experiences in our lives and we’re feeling emotionally fragile, asking for help can feel scary. We’re all different, and our ability to overcome difficult and painful experiences can depend on our predisposition, resources, and level of support. You may be dealing with everyday stress, past or present traumatic stress, or you may be struggling to cope with symptoms associated with mental, emotional, or physical health. Whatever the issue, we can work through it together.
When we're already going through difficult and painful experiences in our lives and we’re feeling emotionally fragile, asking for help can feel scary. We’re all different, and our ability to overcome difficult and painful experiences can depend on our predisposition, resources, and level of support. You may be dealing with everyday stress, past or present traumatic stress, or you may be struggling to cope with symptoms associated with mental, emotional, or physical health. Whatever the issue, we can work through it together.
(226) 781-7173 View (226) 781-7173
Photo of Karsyn Buchner-Duby, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Karsyn Buchner-Duby
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
If you're trying to figure out who you are and what you're all about, you're in the right place. I provide a safe space and support to hear and help you explore and all aspects of yourself. Whether you want to be more authentic, understand your needs and building boundaries, explore gender identity, sexual orientation, or your relationships, I can help you to gain clarity, while nurturing your personal growth and authenticity. I also have extensive experience in geriatrics and love working with seniors to address the particular issues they face. I also have a thorough understanding of issues facing LGBTQIA+ that are beyond textbook.
If you're trying to figure out who you are and what you're all about, you're in the right place. I provide a safe space and support to hear and help you explore and all aspects of yourself. Whether you want to be more authentic, understand your needs and building boundaries, explore gender identity, sexual orientation, or your relationships, I can help you to gain clarity, while nurturing your personal growth and authenticity. I also have extensive experience in geriatrics and love working with seniors to address the particular issues they face. I also have a thorough understanding of issues facing LGBTQIA+ that are beyond textbook.
(226) 240-3477 View (226) 240-3477
Photo of Tim Kelly, BA, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tim Kelly
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5P
Sometimes men are great at pretending everything's fine – even when life is falling apart. Trying to carry the weight of the world all by yourself is a sure path to depression, anger issues, self-medicating, lashing out, and increased stress and physical symptoms. Whether you're trying to figure out what your partner wants (what does she mean by "communicate better" anyway?), or you're needing to talk through personal, work, or family issues, I can help you get to a better place. If you're worried that you're the only one, don't. There is literally nothing you can tell me that I haven't heard or worked with before.
Sometimes men are great at pretending everything's fine – even when life is falling apart. Trying to carry the weight of the world all by yourself is a sure path to depression, anger issues, self-medicating, lashing out, and increased stress and physical symptoms. Whether you're trying to figure out what your partner wants (what does she mean by "communicate better" anyway?), or you're needing to talk through personal, work, or family issues, I can help you get to a better place. If you're worried that you're the only one, don't. There is literally nothing you can tell me that I haven't heard or worked with before.
(226) 240-4236 View (226) 240-4236
Photo of Steve Granger, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Steve Granger
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
St Thomas, ON N5R
Figuring out how to navigate life can be tough and, at times, can even seem impossible. Sometimes, we need extra support to get through difficult times, to deal with something we have long been avoiding, or to deal with emotions we’re not familiar or comfortable with. Whether you’re looking for support in making key changes in your life, to help understand yourself better, or for support with a particular mental health concern (e.g. depression, anxiety, etc.), we will work together to find a healthy way forward.
Figuring out how to navigate life can be tough and, at times, can even seem impossible. Sometimes, we need extra support to get through difficult times, to deal with something we have long been avoiding, or to deal with emotions we’re not familiar or comfortable with. Whether you’re looking for support in making key changes in your life, to help understand yourself better, or for support with a particular mental health concern (e.g. depression, anxiety, etc.), we will work together to find a healthy way forward.
(226) 917-5263 View (226) 917-5263
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
St Thomas, ON N5P
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
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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.