Emotionally Focused Counselling in Dorchester

Photo of Diane Hassall, COSRT General, Psychotherapist
Diane Hassall
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Dorchester DT2  (Online Only)
No intimate relationship is ever without its challenges. Yet how many of us are taught how to make relationships work? Or sex come to that. And who can we talk to if things aren't working as well as we want? I am the Lead Psychotherapist at Your Time To Talk, a down-to-earth therapy practice that specialises in relationship and sex therapy. Me and my team are here to offer you impartial, expert support. We work affirmatively with diversity, especially gender, sexual and relationship diversity; with couples, individuals and people in multi-partnered relationships, or engaged in BDSM and kink.
No intimate relationship is ever without its challenges. Yet how many of us are taught how to make relationships work? Or sex come to that. And who can we talk to if things aren't working as well as we want? I am the Lead Psychotherapist at Your Time To Talk, a down-to-earth therapy practice that specialises in relationship and sex therapy. Me and my team are here to offer you impartial, expert support. We work affirmatively with diversity, especially gender, sexual and relationship diversity; with couples, individuals and people in multi-partnered relationships, or engaged in BDSM and kink.
01460 202695 View 01460 202695
Photo of Nicky Vallance, MBACP, Counsellor
Nicky Vallance
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Dorchester DT1
Hi, I'm Nicky. I can help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, or coming to terms with long-term health issues. If you find yourself fitting around everyone else's needs at the expense of your own or have not been able to move on from past experiences, or are overloaded then I can help you to turn things around. I offer a warm, safe, confidential space to talk and overcome the challenges you are facing, tune into your emotions, so they become your guide rather than overwhelm you. Most importantly build a new relationship with yourself and feel more confident and in control of your life.
Hi, I'm Nicky. I can help if you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, or coming to terms with long-term health issues. If you find yourself fitting around everyone else's needs at the expense of your own or have not been able to move on from past experiences, or are overloaded then I can help you to turn things around. I offer a warm, safe, confidential space to talk and overcome the challenges you are facing, tune into your emotions, so they become your guide rather than overwhelm you. Most importantly build a new relationship with yourself and feel more confident and in control of your life.
01202 125197 View 01202 125197
Photo of Dr Lynda Foulder- Hughes, PhD
Dr Lynda Foulder- Hughes
PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dorchester DT1
Hello there! My name is Dr Lynda Foulder-Hughes. I am an experienced Psychotherapist, and accredited member of UKAHPP. My initial training was as an Occupational, Therapist (state HCPC registered between 1991-2019). I have over 33 years of successful practice experience in hospitals, clinics, social care, voluntary organisations, education settings and television. I am trained in a range of approaches including: CBT, EMDR, Flash EMDR Technique, Rewind, Humanistic Counselling, DBT, ACT, SFT, CFT, MI, Mindfulness and Meditation. My approach to treatment is holistic, evidence-based and integrative, depending upon your needs.
Hello there! My name is Dr Lynda Foulder-Hughes. I am an experienced Psychotherapist, and accredited member of UKAHPP. My initial training was as an Occupational, Therapist (state HCPC registered between 1991-2019). I have over 33 years of successful practice experience in hospitals, clinics, social care, voluntary organisations, education settings and television. I am trained in a range of approaches including: CBT, EMDR, Flash EMDR Technique, Rewind, Humanistic Counselling, DBT, ACT, SFT, CFT, MI, Mindfulness and Meditation. My approach to treatment is holistic, evidence-based and integrative, depending upon your needs.
07380 327510 View 07380 327510
Photo of Anna Elston, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Anna Elston
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dorchester DT1
I’ve been through my own struggles with alcohol, and entered residential rehab in 2007 as a single mum of 3 young children. It was an immense challenge but I overcame many demons with the help of empathetic professionals. I decided to retrain from teacher to counsellor so that I could support others in addressing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and live meaningful, contented lives. After 16 years in recovery, I understand that every journey is different but we all strive for the same thing: inner contentment and sustainable change.
I’ve been through my own struggles with alcohol, and entered residential rehab in 2007 as a single mum of 3 young children. It was an immense challenge but I overcame many demons with the help of empathetic professionals. I decided to retrain from teacher to counsellor so that I could support others in addressing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours and live meaningful, contented lives. After 16 years in recovery, I understand that every journey is different but we all strive for the same thing: inner contentment and sustainable change.
01865 587121 View 01865 587121

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sandra darcy Fraser - sandra fraser counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
sandra fraser counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stoford BA22
In our daily lives there can be times that we find we have problems that are difficult to endure and even harder to share. I offer appropriate individual therapies aimed at your own personal needs in a confidential and safe environment, where we can work together with respect and the time needed for you to explore your own emotions and work towards a positive outcome.
In our daily lives there can be times that we find we have problems that are difficult to endure and even harder to share. I offer appropriate individual therapies aimed at your own personal needs in a confidential and safe environment, where we can work together with respect and the time needed for you to explore your own emotions and work towards a positive outcome.
07963 877925 View 07963 877925
Photo of Amanda Burbidge, MBACP, Counsellor
Amanda Burbidge
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stoford BA22
I offer Counselling services, and Supervision for other Counselling professionals, virtually or face to face. During all of our lives we have times when we find that life is harder to process, events are challenging to tolerate and find a path through. These are the times where we most need a safe place to talk – and these are also the times when it’s most difficult to reach out. I'm a compassionate, experienced professional, and can help you to manage your anxiety and overcome past truma. I am also experienced helping those struggling with sex or addiction issues, working with STOPSO and ATSAC
I offer Counselling services, and Supervision for other Counselling professionals, virtually or face to face. During all of our lives we have times when we find that life is harder to process, events are challenging to tolerate and find a path through. These are the times where we most need a safe place to talk – and these are also the times when it’s most difficult to reach out. I'm a compassionate, experienced professional, and can help you to manage your anxiety and overcome past truma. I am also experienced helping those struggling with sex or addiction issues, working with STOPSO and ATSAC
07492 879983 View 07492 879983
Photo of Victoria (Vicky) Crossland, MBACP, Counsellor
Victoria (Vicky) Crossland
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Sherborne DT9
Not accepting new clients
I am an experienced and qualified counsellor, who has undertaken further specialist training to work with Young Children 4+ and Teens. Using a range of age appropriate interventions that include talking, creative work and play based, ensures this client group can make sense of big feelings and difficulties troubling them. From anxiety, low mood to anger I aid clients to express themselves in a comfortable and safe place. I have 12 years + experience of working in education and social care settings building nurturing relationships to promote change and to overcome past or present events.
I am an experienced and qualified counsellor, who has undertaken further specialist training to work with Young Children 4+ and Teens. Using a range of age appropriate interventions that include talking, creative work and play based, ensures this client group can make sense of big feelings and difficulties troubling them. From anxiety, low mood to anger I aid clients to express themselves in a comfortable and safe place. I have 12 years + experience of working in education and social care settings building nurturing relationships to promote change and to overcome past or present events.
07723 505690 View 07723 505690

Online Therapists

Photo of Jen Pridgeon, MSc
Jen Pridgeon
MSc
Verified Verified
Frome BA11
I combine EFT Tapping and meditative healing practices to empower you to become your own healer.
As a team we work together to support you to feel better and have the tools to support a wonderful abundant life and clear any blocks to this. I combine EFT and soul healing practices and with 15+ years of experience in health care we build the tools to empower you to become your own healer. I specialise in parenting, trauma, spiritual emergency and counsel. I have experience with pregnancy loss of all types and fertility, twin flames, advanced souls and bereavement. I am a BioMedical Scientist by degree and an EFT International Practitioner. So let's connect and feel better!
I combine EFT Tapping and meditative healing practices to empower you to become your own healer.
As a team we work together to support you to feel better and have the tools to support a wonderful abundant life and clear any blocks to this. I combine EFT and soul healing practices and with 15+ years of experience in health care we build the tools to empower you to become your own healer. I specialise in parenting, trauma, spiritual emergency and counsel. I have experience with pregnancy loss of all types and fertility, twin flames, advanced souls and bereavement. I am a BioMedical Scientist by degree and an EFT International Practitioner. So let's connect and feel better!
01373 486982 View 01373 486982
Photo of Candice Collins, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Candice Collins
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Alresford SO24
I specialise in working with couples and individuals, and regularly work with clients in areas including: communication, affairs and infidelity, blended families, bereavement (loss and grief), embedded trauma, depression and anxiety. In my practice, I endeavour to work with clients in an empathic, collaborative and non-judgemental way. My integrated approach uses systemic theory (including exploring your thought processes and present situation) and psychodynamic theory (historical exploration linking to unconscious thoughts and behaviour). I also apply aspects of emotionally-focused therapy ( EFT); and trauma focused therapies.
I specialise in working with couples and individuals, and regularly work with clients in areas including: communication, affairs and infidelity, blended families, bereavement (loss and grief), embedded trauma, depression and anxiety. In my practice, I endeavour to work with clients in an empathic, collaborative and non-judgemental way. My integrated approach uses systemic theory (including exploring your thought processes and present situation) and psychodynamic theory (historical exploration linking to unconscious thoughts and behaviour). I also apply aspects of emotionally-focused therapy ( EFT); and trauma focused therapies.
023 8202 8098 View 023 8202 8098
Photo of Jo Williams, MBACP, Counsellor
Jo Williams
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Swansea SA1
I have a PG Dip in Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I'm Jo and I am a qualified psychotherapist working with adults and couples. I am a Registered Member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP). I practice person-centred and emotion-focused therapy and have experience working in many different areas including bereavement, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress. I aim to form an open and genuine therapeutic relationship with you to offer guidance and support with whatever your needs are. I offer a non-judgemental and encouraging style to explore the concerns that bring you to seek counselling.
I have a PG Dip in Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I'm Jo and I am a qualified psychotherapist working with adults and couples. I am a Registered Member of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP). I practice person-centred and emotion-focused therapy and have experience working in many different areas including bereavement, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress. I aim to form an open and genuine therapeutic relationship with you to offer guidance and support with whatever your needs are. I offer a non-judgemental and encouraging style to explore the concerns that bring you to seek counselling.
01792 342536 View 01792 342536
Photo of Luiza Neumayer, MSc, HCPC-Couns. Psych., Psychotherapist
Luiza Neumayer
Psychotherapist, MSc, HCPC-Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Amersham HP7
I’m also a Certified EFT Couples therapist.
Hello and welcome. I’m here to help you find the inner strengths you need to unblock what’s troubling you and move on with your life. My clients tell me I’m warm, kind and insightful – which is good, because my main aim is to offer a safe, welcoming place where you feel willing and able to consider making changes. Most of us aren’t used to reaching out for professional support. We’re brought up to think asking for help can be a sign of weakness. But whatever you’re facing, working together with a professional therapist can let you see a way forward.
I’m also a Certified EFT Couples therapist.
Hello and welcome. I’m here to help you find the inner strengths you need to unblock what’s troubling you and move on with your life. My clients tell me I’m warm, kind and insightful – which is good, because my main aim is to offer a safe, welcoming place where you feel willing and able to consider making changes. Most of us aren’t used to reaching out for professional support. We’re brought up to think asking for help can be a sign of weakness. But whatever you’re facing, working together with a professional therapist can let you see a way forward.
020 3872 2526 View 020 3872 2526
Photo of Helen Hoyte - Helen Hoyte Wellbeing, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Helen Hoyte Wellbeing
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Torquay TQ1
My aim as a counsellor & coach is to listen to you and understand you, offer you a safe space to talk & help you to understand what is going on for you. I can help you to find a pathway forward and find some understanding. Areas of interest & specialism are trauma, neurodiversity, (particularly ADHD) & relationships, although my work is not limited to these areas and I work with a diverse range of clients. I also offer alternative therapies to my clients, if required, which can be taken alongside counselling or coaching, including EFT, hypnotherapy, guided meditations, Indian Head Massage & Reiki.
My aim as a counsellor & coach is to listen to you and understand you, offer you a safe space to talk & help you to understand what is going on for you. I can help you to find a pathway forward and find some understanding. Areas of interest & specialism are trauma, neurodiversity, (particularly ADHD) & relationships, although my work is not limited to these areas and I work with a diverse range of clients. I also offer alternative therapies to my clients, if required, which can be taken alongside counselling or coaching, including EFT, hypnotherapy, guided meditations, Indian Head Massage & Reiki.
07923 469456 View 07923 469456
Photo of Julie Dawn Jones - JDJCounselling For You!, BACP, Counsellor
JDJCounselling For You!
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cardiff CF11
Waitlist for new clients
Emotional Focused Therapy ( EFT) for couples and individuals.
The overall aim of Counselling and Therapy is to provide an opportunity for you to work towards living by where experiences are more satisfying. The process of Counselling becomes itself one of life's new situations: It offers an opportunity to experience life differently and to extend the range of ways in which you can operate in the world with greater satisfaction. "EVERY JOURNEY STARTS WITH ONE SMALL STEP"!!!!
Emotional Focused Therapy ( EFT) for couples and individuals.
The overall aim of Counselling and Therapy is to provide an opportunity for you to work towards living by where experiences are more satisfying. The process of Counselling becomes itself one of life's new situations: It offers an opportunity to experience life differently and to extend the range of ways in which you can operate in the world with greater satisfaction. "EVERY JOURNEY STARTS WITH ONE SMALL STEP"!!!!
029 2167 3089 View 029 2167 3089
Photo of Phil Owen
Phil Owen
Verified Verified
Swansea SA2
I am a Blue Health Coach also qualified in EMDR, EFT and Recovery and Wellbeing Coaching. I also practice the Birth Awareness 3 Step Process for dealing with Birth Trauma, and general trauma. As a Blue Health Coach I specialise in Blue Health, a term that spans a range of research into the benefits of being in, near, on and under water I use Blue Health Science and the natural beach or coastal environment to work with my clients. For clients that would like to try, I also provide a more active Surf Therapy, where we use the activity as a way to experience flow state and mindfulness, improving physical and mental wellbeing.
I am a Blue Health Coach also qualified in EMDR, EFT and Recovery and Wellbeing Coaching. I also practice the Birth Awareness 3 Step Process for dealing with Birth Trauma, and general trauma. As a Blue Health Coach I specialise in Blue Health, a term that spans a range of research into the benefits of being in, near, on and under water I use Blue Health Science and the natural beach or coastal environment to work with my clients. For clients that would like to try, I also provide a more active Surf Therapy, where we use the activity as a way to experience flow state and mindfulness, improving physical and mental wellbeing.
01792 949409 View 01792 949409
Photo of Luisa Davies - Let's Talk Therapy Wales, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Let's Talk Therapy Wales
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Llanelli SA14
Emotion-Focussed Therapy ( EFT) helps us refine the skill of emotion regulation; improving awareness of our emotions, helping us to better understand them and ultimately, better understand ourselves.
I'm Luisa and I'm a qualified psychotherapist, based in South West Wales, experienced in working with many forms of emotional distress. My approach comes from a person-centred and emotion focussed standpoint, with a keen interest in a holistic approach. Through gentle exploration in a warm and safe environment, I open the space for you to explore your situation at your own pace, without judgement, recognising each individual's subjective experience. With my experience in the creative industry, I love to hear about your creative interests and encourage you to use these in your therapy journey, if you so wish.
Emotion-Focussed Therapy ( EFT) helps us refine the skill of emotion regulation; improving awareness of our emotions, helping us to better understand them and ultimately, better understand ourselves.
I'm Luisa and I'm a qualified psychotherapist, based in South West Wales, experienced in working with many forms of emotional distress. My approach comes from a person-centred and emotion focussed standpoint, with a keen interest in a holistic approach. Through gentle exploration in a warm and safe environment, I open the space for you to explore your situation at your own pace, without judgement, recognising each individual's subjective experience. With my experience in the creative industry, I love to hear about your creative interests and encourage you to use these in your therapy journey, if you so wish.
01792 949065 View 01792 949065
Photo of Melanie Rivera, MBACP, Counsellor
Melanie Rivera
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wareham BH20
I specialise in 'Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy', providing a flexible and holistic approach that combines various therapeutic models such as Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Approaches, trauma-informed EMDR, Emotionally Focused, and Mindfulness-based therapies.
Hi, I'm Melanie Rivera. I work with adults 18+ who may be experiencing challenges such as trauma, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. Clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling to navigate their circumstances. They often seek a deeper understanding of themselves and their situations. Many want to make meaningful changes in their lives but don't know where to begin and are looking for a therapist to support them while they process, heal and find ways to be more resilient, confident and experience more joy. If you can relate to this you might just be in the right place!
I specialise in 'Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy', providing a flexible and holistic approach that combines various therapeutic models such as Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural Approaches, trauma-informed EMDR, Emotionally Focused, and Mindfulness-based therapies.
Hi, I'm Melanie Rivera. I work with adults 18+ who may be experiencing challenges such as trauma, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. Clients often come to me feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or struggling to navigate their circumstances. They often seek a deeper understanding of themselves and their situations. Many want to make meaningful changes in their lives but don't know where to begin and are looking for a therapist to support them while they process, heal and find ways to be more resilient, confident and experience more joy. If you can relate to this you might just be in the right place!
01202 125478 View 01202 125478
Photo of Sarah Ruth Janes, MA, MBACP, Counsellor
Sarah Ruth Janes
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southsea PO4  (Online Only)
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples with a foundation in attachment theory.
I am an LGBTQ+ counsellor working online with individuals and couples who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans and queer. Beginning with a free 'getting to know you' session lasting 50 minutes for individuals, I offer a warm humanistic approach. I have 8 years experience working with a wide range of issues including depression, disassociation and complicated grief disorder. As a member of the LGBT+ community I understand issues around minority stress, cumulative childhood trauma, coming out, isolation and belonging.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples with a foundation in attachment theory.
I am an LGBTQ+ counsellor working online with individuals and couples who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans and queer. Beginning with a free 'getting to know you' session lasting 50 minutes for individuals, I offer a warm humanistic approach. I have 8 years experience working with a wide range of issues including depression, disassociation and complicated grief disorder. As a member of the LGBT+ community I understand issues around minority stress, cumulative childhood trauma, coming out, isolation and belonging.
020 3962 1806 View 020 3962 1806
Photo of Vikki Joy Fear, MBACP, Counsellor
Vikki Joy Fear
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Clevedon BS21
I use talking therapy, EFT, neuroscience and creative techniques suh as art, sand tray, journalling and play to help you process trauma and support you through difficulties.
I am a down to earth and approachable counsellor for children, young people and adults. I have 27 years experience working with young people in care struggling with CPTSD, ADHD and ASD. At times, emotions and behaviours can become difficult. Past trauma affects us physically as well as mentally and emotionally, sometimes blocking lifes natural progression. We often underestimate the impact an event or events has on us. I can help you make sense of your emotions and behaviours and manage your responses to triggers, allowing progression towrards your desired goals.
I use talking therapy, EFT, neuroscience and creative techniques suh as art, sand tray, journalling and play to help you process trauma and support you through difficulties.
I am a down to earth and approachable counsellor for children, young people and adults. I have 27 years experience working with young people in care struggling with CPTSD, ADHD and ASD. At times, emotions and behaviours can become difficult. Past trauma affects us physically as well as mentally and emotionally, sometimes blocking lifes natural progression. We often underestimate the impact an event or events has on us. I can help you make sense of your emotions and behaviours and manage your responses to triggers, allowing progression towrards your desired goals.
01275 402983 View 01275 402983
Photo of Rasa Motiejune - Dew Therapy - Rasa Motiejune , MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Dew Therapy - Rasa Motiejune
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Bicester OX26
I am a UKCP registered Family and Systemic Psychotherapist, offering: Individual, Family and Couples therapy for people of all ages and psychological difficulties. I have been continuously working in NHS since 2007. I use ideas from the Systemic and Family Therapy schools, CBT, DBT and mindfulness. I am particularly interested in Attachment Narrative Therapy (ANT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) approaches which both concentrate on creating strong attachment and connected relationships. I believe that each day we "dance", sometimes we "dance" alone, other times we "dance" together with our partners or family members.
I am a UKCP registered Family and Systemic Psychotherapist, offering: Individual, Family and Couples therapy for people of all ages and psychological difficulties. I have been continuously working in NHS since 2007. I use ideas from the Systemic and Family Therapy schools, CBT, DBT and mindfulness. I am particularly interested in Attachment Narrative Therapy (ANT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) approaches which both concentrate on creating strong attachment and connected relationships. I believe that each day we "dance", sometimes we "dance" alone, other times we "dance" together with our partners or family members.
01780 438666 View 01780 438666
Photo of Sue Mulvoy, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Sue Mulvoy
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Brighton BN42
Professional Memberships include: International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICE EFT) & British Emotionally Focused Therapy (B EFT).
I am accredited with the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) & hold a master’s degree in Systemic Psychotherapy. I also have additional training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy ( EFT). EFT is a non-blaming approach to therapy which pays attention to how our thoughts, feelings and attachments impacts our interactions, behaviours and relationships. I offer a safe space for couples and individuals to explore presenting issues in order to better understand themselves, each other and their relationships.
Professional Memberships include: International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICE EFT) & British Emotionally Focused Therapy (B EFT).
I am accredited with the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) & hold a master’s degree in Systemic Psychotherapy. I also have additional training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy ( EFT). EFT is a non-blaming approach to therapy which pays attention to how our thoughts, feelings and attachments impacts our interactions, behaviours and relationships. I offer a safe space for couples and individuals to explore presenting issues in order to better understand themselves, each other and their relationships.
01273 092650 View 01273 092650

See more therapy options for Dorchester

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.