Emotionally Focused Therapists in Strathroy, ON
![Photo of Laura Pageau - Lambton Counselling Services, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c74a5f6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Experience working with a variety of counselling interventions, including short-term goal focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, motivational, and strength-based therapies; EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) for couples, energy psychology including EFT (Emotionally Freedom Technique) and Matrix Reimprinting and NLP.
As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. Lambton Counselling Services is committed to making an inspired contribution to personal growth and encouraging health in all states: Mental, Emotional, Physical and Spiritual. Our mandate is to support clients in identifying and resolving the issues that stop them from experiencing their lives to the fullest. Lambton Counselling Services is designed to meet a wide range of needs through private practice, groupwork, workshops and professional development.
Experience working with a variety of counselling interventions, including short-term goal focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness, motivational, and strength-based therapies; EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) for couples, energy psychology including EFT (Emotionally Freedom Technique) and Matrix Reimprinting and NLP.
As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. Lambton Counselling Services is committed to making an inspired contribution to personal growth and encouraging health in all states: Mental, Emotional, Physical and Spiritual. Our mandate is to support clients in identifying and resolving the issues that stop them from experiencing their lives to the fullest. Lambton Counselling Services is designed to meet a wide range of needs through private practice, groupwork, workshops and professional development.
![Photo of Cynthia Workman, RP, CCAC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f14f6d6-01a1-46c0-8d74-5c7069d93e97/2/320x400.jpeg)
It is always life changing when you can make a human connection and learn you are not alone during life’s challenges, big and small. In 23 years of counselling experiences, it has been an honor to walk with people on their healing journey and assist in empowering them to realize their true potential. Skilled in treating individuals, couples, families and groups from diverse populations, all with unique needs, gifts and strengths. Specialized training in providing Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, EFT, Mindfulness, trauma informed and centered psychotherapy.
It is always life changing when you can make a human connection and learn you are not alone during life’s challenges, big and small. In 23 years of counselling experiences, it has been an honor to walk with people on their healing journey and assist in empowering them to realize their true potential. Skilled in treating individuals, couples, families and groups from diverse populations, all with unique needs, gifts and strengths. Specialized training in providing Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT, EFT, Mindfulness, trauma informed and centered psychotherapy.
![Photo of Emily Piette - Piette Psychotherapy Services, MACP , RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa963878-da34-4d91-8a03-a0f29b3f994e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Piette Psychotherapy Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP , RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is humanistic and client-centered, and I offer a diversity of counseling theories and strategies including but not limited to EFT, Somatic Experiencing, and Attachment-based, all within a trauma-informed practice.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed in your close relationships? Maybe you are noticing resentment or stress re-surfacing in arguments with your partner or you find yourself feeling guilt or shame after interacting with your parents or other loved ones. Navigating these feelings in our closest relationships can be intimidating and stressful. In every relationship, we crave emotional closeness… and we seek it out even if it harms us in some ways or feels unhealthy. Family, relationships, marriages… they are hard work. I am here to support you to find your own voice, and to find ways to make these relationships have a healthier impact.
My approach to therapy is humanistic and client-centered, and I offer a diversity of counseling theories and strategies including but not limited to EFT, Somatic Experiencing, and Attachment-based, all within a trauma-informed practice.
Have you been feeling overwhelmed in your close relationships? Maybe you are noticing resentment or stress re-surfacing in arguments with your partner or you find yourself feeling guilt or shame after interacting with your parents or other loved ones. Navigating these feelings in our closest relationships can be intimidating and stressful. In every relationship, we crave emotional closeness… and we seek it out even if it harms us in some ways or feels unhealthy. Family, relationships, marriages… they are hard work. I am here to support you to find your own voice, and to find ways to make these relationships have a healthier impact.
![Photo of Carol Ann Nisbet, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58ab4560-4d8a-41c6-9142-01fb0105507d/1/320x400.jpeg)
There are often times in our lives that create challenges and stress. When we feel overwhelmed and unable to manage, there are professionals, like myself, who want to help you return to living your best possible life. Challenges that feel unmanageable may result in us feeling lost, sad, anxious, or alone. You may experience grief, loss, stress relating to responsibilities such as caring for others, or career changes. Whenever experiences like these arise, there are caring professionals here to help. It would be my pleasure to provide a safe space for you to reflect and learn how to successfully move forward and feel better.
There are often times in our lives that create challenges and stress. When we feel overwhelmed and unable to manage, there are professionals, like myself, who want to help you return to living your best possible life. Challenges that feel unmanageable may result in us feeling lost, sad, anxious, or alone. You may experience grief, loss, stress relating to responsibilities such as caring for others, or career changes. Whenever experiences like these arise, there are caring professionals here to help. It would be my pleasure to provide a safe space for you to reflect and learn how to successfully move forward and feel better.
![Photo of Heather Mikkelsen - Heal Therapy Counselling and Consulting Heather , BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27257012-be39-473d-b92a-638820d25109/4/320x400.jpeg)
Heal Therapy Counselling and Consulting Heather
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Strathroy, ON N7G
Waitlist for new clients
Are you thinking of addressing childhood trauma or focusing on your mental health? Are you, or someone you care for, struggling with heightened anxiety or a diminished sense of life satisfaction? I extend an invitation to a warm, welcoming, and non-judgment space where we can collaboratively explore past and present concerns that may be impeding your progress towards achieving personal goals and leading the life you desire.
Are you thinking of addressing childhood trauma or focusing on your mental health? Are you, or someone you care for, struggling with heightened anxiety or a diminished sense of life satisfaction? I extend an invitation to a warm, welcoming, and non-judgment space where we can collaboratively explore past and present concerns that may be impeding your progress towards achieving personal goals and leading the life you desire.
![Photo of Margareta Adriana Vanderheyden, RP, CCC, CHyp, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d5c08e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Margareta Adriana Vanderheyden
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC, CHyp, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Strathroy, ON N7G
As a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Canadian Counsellor, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families since 1993. My work employs cognitive behavioral and mindfulness therapy. I believe that we have an immense power to change our lives, and to overcome life's greatest challenges if we are self aware. Using an integrated model of therapeutic intervention which focuses on your strengths, we work together to increase your self awareness, help you identify options and choices so that you can work differently with the issue you face. Through self understanding and education, you become more resourceful in responding to life's challenges.
As a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Canadian Counsellor, I have worked with individuals, couples, and families since 1993. My work employs cognitive behavioral and mindfulness therapy. I believe that we have an immense power to change our lives, and to overcome life's greatest challenges if we are self aware. Using an integrated model of therapeutic intervention which focuses on your strengths, we work together to increase your self awareness, help you identify options and choices so that you can work differently with the issue you face. Through self understanding and education, you become more resourceful in responding to life's challenges.
![Photo of Gina Santos - Gina- London Trauma Therapy, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aef67c1-d115-4d8d-9844-a99420d04e27/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gina- London Trauma Therapy
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G
Relationships are HARD, right? They certainly can be. This is can be even more true if you've experienced trauma in your earlier years. This earlier trauma can make parenting, marriage, long-term partnership and even friendships feel difficult. At times, when things feel really bad, the depression, anxiety and hopelessness can really set in. You might look at your spouse, your child or even your relationship within yourself and wonder "how did I end up here?". There are ways that you react- it feels like your body reacts way before your brain, and it makes you feel out of control. It would be so nice to feel in control and at ease.
Relationships are HARD, right? They certainly can be. This is can be even more true if you've experienced trauma in your earlier years. This earlier trauma can make parenting, marriage, long-term partnership and even friendships feel difficult. At times, when things feel really bad, the depression, anxiety and hopelessness can really set in. You might look at your spouse, your child or even your relationship within yourself and wonder "how did I end up here?". There are ways that you react- it feels like your body reacts way before your brain, and it makes you feel out of control. It would be so nice to feel in control and at ease.
![Photo of Naomi Krieger- London Trauma Therapy, MSW, RSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8331f61-ce1c-43ec-8030-8984bbdbd0ec/2/320x400.jpeg)
Naomi Krieger- London Trauma Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G (Online Only)
Are you stuck? Stuck in grief, anxiety, or depression? Maybe you have health anxiety or are living with chronic illness. You might have been there for a loved one going through a health crisis- and that takes its toll, too. Perhaps you are struggling with burnout due to your job or relationship. You might be facing an uncertain life transition. Perhaps you are trying to move through trauma and its aftereffects. You want to feel better, happier, brighter in your life. You want to have energy, joy, and contentment.
Are you stuck? Stuck in grief, anxiety, or depression? Maybe you have health anxiety or are living with chronic illness. You might have been there for a loved one going through a health crisis- and that takes its toll, too. Perhaps you are struggling with burnout due to your job or relationship. You might be facing an uncertain life transition. Perhaps you are trying to move through trauma and its aftereffects. You want to feel better, happier, brighter in your life. You want to have energy, joy, and contentment.
![Photo of Lisa J. Smith, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5ab634e-29b6-429a-b5a2-4724c573ad36/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life will bring challenges and difficult times causing confusion, fear, anxiety, depression…and numbness. We also experience transitions and losses, not only through the death of people we love, but loss of our health, relationships, jobs. Maybe you are a Health Care Provider with moral injury as a result of your challenging work? Chronic stressors can bring up feelings of fear and a lack of belief that we can cope. Some events and relationships may leave deeper, traumatic wounds. Sometimes it just feels like it is all ‘too much’. Whatever challenge brings you here, together we can work with and process these feelings.
Life will bring challenges and difficult times causing confusion, fear, anxiety, depression…and numbness. We also experience transitions and losses, not only through the death of people we love, but loss of our health, relationships, jobs. Maybe you are a Health Care Provider with moral injury as a result of your challenging work? Chronic stressors can bring up feelings of fear and a lack of belief that we can cope. Some events and relationships may leave deeper, traumatic wounds. Sometimes it just feels like it is all ‘too much’. Whatever challenge brings you here, together we can work with and process these feelings.
![Photo of Scholastica Asahchop - S A Counselling Services, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e173f7-135c-40be-b28f-0bfc72de746e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Scholastica Asahchop - S A Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Strathroy, ON N7G
Feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained and not sure of what to do? You are not alone because most people experience psychological issues from time to time in life and need help in resolving these challenges. Seeking professional help is pertinent in attaining and maintaining optimal mental health. I utilize both long-term and brief interventions approach to meet clients’ unique needs. I perform comprehensive psychosocial assessments and develop individualized treatment plans tailored to clients' needs. I work from a strength based, trauma informed framework, evidence-based practices and committed to an anti-oppressive approach.
Feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained and not sure of what to do? You are not alone because most people experience psychological issues from time to time in life and need help in resolving these challenges. Seeking professional help is pertinent in attaining and maintaining optimal mental health. I utilize both long-term and brief interventions approach to meet clients’ unique needs. I perform comprehensive psychosocial assessments and develop individualized treatment plans tailored to clients' needs. I work from a strength based, trauma informed framework, evidence-based practices and committed to an anti-oppressive approach.
![Photo of Peter Dikih - Peter Dikih Counselling Services, HBSc, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e624fe7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Peter Dikih Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, HBSc, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G
I have provided psychotherapy, counselling and coaching since 1996. I have worked with a diverse population with many types of issues and challenges. My passion is helping individuals, couples and families to thrive; and helping leaders and organizations to excel. I provide a safe and confidential place where problems can be shared, solutions identified, barriers overcome, progress achieved and success celebrated. I primarily use client-centered, solution-focused and cognitive behavioural approaches.
I have provided psychotherapy, counselling and coaching since 1996. I have worked with a diverse population with many types of issues and challenges. My passion is helping individuals, couples and families to thrive; and helping leaders and organizations to excel. I provide a safe and confidential place where problems can be shared, solutions identified, barriers overcome, progress achieved and success celebrated. I primarily use client-centered, solution-focused and cognitive behavioural approaches.
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![Photo of Katie Dutot, MSW, RSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38214d89-98e8-4892-97cb-1f5da2f064f5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults experiencing challenges with mental health diagnoses, developmental trauma, relationship difficulties, and interpersonal conflict. I am passionate about engaging others in meaningful conversations that empower them to lean into their challenges to learn ways to heal and take charge of their dreams, hopes, and goals. I strive to create a space for people to feel safety and security through a collaborative relationship wherein they tap into their resiliency and explore themselves.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults experiencing challenges with mental health diagnoses, developmental trauma, relationship difficulties, and interpersonal conflict. I am passionate about engaging others in meaningful conversations that empower them to lean into their challenges to learn ways to heal and take charge of their dreams, hopes, and goals. I strive to create a space for people to feel safety and security through a collaborative relationship wherein they tap into their resiliency and explore themselves.
![Photo of Amanda Feige, MA, CSTIP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/760a2064-5c74-4fdc-881a-f6a3533b86e7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Feige
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CSTIP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G (Online Only)
Relationships are at the core of feeling love and belonging. However, when our relationships are functioning poorly we can experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, or anger. In this space, we will explore how early life relationships shaped your attachment, communication, and conflict patterns to connect them to the impact they are having in your current life. From there, we can develop healthy new patterns. I also work with couples on their communication, boundaries, intimacy, meeting needs, and trust. Together you will learn to communicate safely and predictably and co-create your ideal intimate life.
Relationships are at the core of feeling love and belonging. However, when our relationships are functioning poorly we can experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, grief, or anger. In this space, we will explore how early life relationships shaped your attachment, communication, and conflict patterns to connect them to the impact they are having in your current life. From there, we can develop healthy new patterns. I also work with couples on their communication, boundaries, intimacy, meeting needs, and trust. Together you will learn to communicate safely and predictably and co-create your ideal intimate life.
![Photo of Dakota Grass, BSW, RSW, RP(Q), Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b24a620-dc30-4144-83f0-f310cd7225c5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dakota Grass
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G
I offer emotion-focused psychotherapy with individuals who have experienced relational trauma to assist in processing core emotions. I also work with couples who have experienced trauma and experience difficulties communicating effectively with each other. I offer substance use counselling related to exploring change, harm reduction, abstinence, and relapse prevention strategies. I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and thoroughly enjoy working with youth and young adults. I offer services through Blueprint Counselling, a London-based private practice.
I offer emotion-focused psychotherapy with individuals who have experienced relational trauma to assist in processing core emotions. I also work with couples who have experienced trauma and experience difficulties communicating effectively with each other. I offer substance use counselling related to exploring change, harm reduction, abstinence, and relapse prevention strategies. I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ individuals and thoroughly enjoy working with youth and young adults. I offer services through Blueprint Counselling, a London-based private practice.
![Photo of Kathy Roberts, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/621f0bca-f427-4e2f-af08-aaf08b9e7f63/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Roberts
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G
Waitlist for new clients
NOTE: Unfortunately, I am NOT currently accepting new clients. I expect to have availability again in early September. If you think we might be a good fit, please reach out at that time. <> Maybe you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, depression or eating challenges. It's hard ... I get it. I can help. I'm a highly-experienced therapist who works mostly with teens, young adults and their supportive families. I'm a people person ... compassionate, enthusiastic and down-to-earth.
NOTE: Unfortunately, I am NOT currently accepting new clients. I expect to have availability again in early September. If you think we might be a good fit, please reach out at that time. <> Maybe you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, depression or eating challenges. It's hard ... I get it. I can help. I'm a highly-experienced therapist who works mostly with teens, young adults and their supportive families. I'm a people person ... compassionate, enthusiastic and down-to-earth.
![Photo of Steve Granger, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7a519fcc-4243-4e89-8a3e-c13a8fa0c47c/2/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Brianna Ramsay, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f12ddb6f-e484-4e9e-955c-791b3907b820/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brianna Ramsay
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G (Online Only)
With a passion for helping people, Brianna has a friendly, relaxed style and is non-judgemental. She offers a safe and supportive space for people to talk about those hard things, and finding ways to thrive when it feels like things are out of control, or not what you were expecting. Brianna is currently working with individuals virtually.
With a passion for helping people, Brianna has a friendly, relaxed style and is non-judgemental. She offers a safe and supportive space for people to talk about those hard things, and finding ways to thrive when it feels like things are out of control, or not what you were expecting. Brianna is currently working with individuals virtually.
![Photo of Kathy Nyman, MEd, CRPO, OAMHP, CCTP-2, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c14bea3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathy Nyman
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CRPO, OAMHP, CCTP-2
Verified Verified
Strathroy, ON N7G
Accepting new clients! Individual and couples counselling. I believe that every person has the ability to heal from past and current pain and it has been my great privilege to be a part of people's healing for over 20 years. I am a Registered Psychotherapist that has worked with clients experiencing a variety of struggles including: trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, relationship issues, life transitions and stress management. I offer an integrative and tailored approach that meets each person's individual needs.
Accepting new clients! Individual and couples counselling. I believe that every person has the ability to heal from past and current pain and it has been my great privilege to be a part of people's healing for over 20 years. I am a Registered Psychotherapist that has worked with clients experiencing a variety of struggles including: trauma, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, relationship issues, life transitions and stress management. I offer an integrative and tailored approach that meets each person's individual needs.
![Photo of Jolene Aarts, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b756593-969b-45bf-a601-770b0c9e4a26/1/320x400.jpeg)
With over two decades of experience as a leader in the mental health field, I am a compassionate guide for teens, young adults, and parents navigating life's challenges. My career has focused on supporting youth struggling with mental health issues. As a mom myself, I understand the difficulties of adolescence and the transition to adulthood. I strive to help you rewrite negative self-stories with empathy, humor, and humility. I proudly serves families through a trauma-informed, healing-focused, and feminist lens. Her devotion is to empowering young people to overcome worries and thrive.
With over two decades of experience as a leader in the mental health field, I am a compassionate guide for teens, young adults, and parents navigating life's challenges. My career has focused on supporting youth struggling with mental health issues. As a mom myself, I understand the difficulties of adolescence and the transition to adulthood. I strive to help you rewrite negative self-stories with empathy, humor, and humility. I proudly serves families through a trauma-informed, healing-focused, and feminist lens. Her devotion is to empowering young people to overcome worries and thrive.
![Photo of Jessica Cowling - Postpartum Counselling Centre, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/95772758-e6ac-4387-9f7a-cc2dec87dbeb/1/320x400.png)
Postpartum Counselling Centre
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Strathroy, ON N7G
Ever feel like you’re the only one who doesn’t have all her stuff together? When you see other moms around you, they all seem like they know exactly what they’re doing, while you’re lost in a sea of confusion, stress, boredom, sadness, and anger? You’re left feeling alone, broken, and just not good enough. The worries build up, and you’re not sure what to do with them - they’re taking up too much space in your brain. You just want to feel normal again. We help with postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, birth trauma, and postpartum psychosis. Dads can struggle too! If your partner is having a hard time, we're here for them as well.
Ever feel like you’re the only one who doesn’t have all her stuff together? When you see other moms around you, they all seem like they know exactly what they’re doing, while you’re lost in a sea of confusion, stress, boredom, sadness, and anger? You’re left feeling alone, broken, and just not good enough. The worries build up, and you’re not sure what to do with them - they’re taking up too much space in your brain. You just want to feel normal again. We help with postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, birth trauma, and postpartum psychosis. Dads can struggle too! If your partner is having a hard time, we're here for them as well.
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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.