Emotionally Focused Counselling in Ledbury

Photo of Lurdes Magalhaes, MBACP, Counsellor
Lurdes Magalhaes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ledbury HR8
Whether you're facing anxiety, relationship issues, or life transitions, my empathic approach ensures that you are heard, understood, and supported on your unique path to well-being. Your well-being is my priority, and I invite you to embark on this journey with me. Therapy will help you to learn about what has happened to you, not what is wrong with you, my focus is on compassion listening and understanding rather than making a diagnosis.
Whether you're facing anxiety, relationship issues, or life transitions, my empathic approach ensures that you are heard, understood, and supported on your unique path to well-being. Your well-being is my priority, and I invite you to embark on this journey with me. Therapy will help you to learn about what has happened to you, not what is wrong with you, my focus is on compassion listening and understanding rather than making a diagnosis.
01322 936906 View 01322 936906
Photo of Claire Harrison, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Claire Harrison
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Ledbury HR8
Do you constantly feel anxious and frustrated with yourself ? Do you keep repeating the same behaviour patterns ? There is a reason for this. I have helped many clients to work through traumatic life experiences. You can start again with a new self confidence that comes from a place of love rather than hate for who you are. Things do not have to stay the same. You can change how you feel about yourself and learn to accept yourself, even the bits you don't like ! You can learn to regulate your feelings and work with them rather than being afraid and controlled by them.
Do you constantly feel anxious and frustrated with yourself ? Do you keep repeating the same behaviour patterns ? There is a reason for this. I have helped many clients to work through traumatic life experiences. You can start again with a new self confidence that comes from a place of love rather than hate for who you are. Things do not have to stay the same. You can change how you feel about yourself and learn to accept yourself, even the bits you don't like ! You can learn to regulate your feelings and work with them rather than being afraid and controlled by them.
01905 677509 View 01905 677509
Photo of Danielle Bennett, COSRT General, Psychotherapist
Danielle Bennett
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Ledbury HR8
Hi, my name is Danielle Bennett, I'm an individual counsellor, a couple therapist and a sex therapist. I have been working in this field for over 25 years. I started my training, working for the NHS as a sex-therapist and I worked in the NHS for over 7 years. I then worked privately for a number of years and for the last nine years I worked for Relate as a sex therapist; couple counsellor and trainer. I can help with all aspects of relationships and sexual issues as well as looking at more particular issues with individuals.
Hi, my name is Danielle Bennett, I'm an individual counsellor, a couple therapist and a sex therapist. I have been working in this field for over 25 years. I started my training, working for the NHS as a sex-therapist and I worked in the NHS for over 7 years. I then worked privately for a number of years and for the last nine years I worked for Relate as a sex therapist; couple counsellor and trainer. I can help with all aspects of relationships and sexual issues as well as looking at more particular issues with individuals.
01684 211320 View 01684 211320
Photo of Amy Chevis-Bruce, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Amy Chevis-Bruce
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ledbury HR8
I am a psychotherapist working with children, adolescents, and adults. Do you find yourself in need of support? Are you struggling with any of the following difficulties? Anxiety, including social anxiety, separation anxiety, and panic · Phobias, including emetophobia · Obsessive-compulsive behaviours and perfectionism · Emotion recognition and regulation · Low self-esteem and confidence, exploring identity and sense of self · Low mood and depression · Managing mood changes · Social/relationship issues · Attachment difficulties · Trauma · Life issues, stress, coping skills, struggling with assertiveness, recovering from bullying
I am a psychotherapist working with children, adolescents, and adults. Do you find yourself in need of support? Are you struggling with any of the following difficulties? Anxiety, including social anxiety, separation anxiety, and panic · Phobias, including emetophobia · Obsessive-compulsive behaviours and perfectionism · Emotion recognition and regulation · Low self-esteem and confidence, exploring identity and sense of self · Low mood and depression · Managing mood changes · Social/relationship issues · Attachment difficulties · Trauma · Life issues, stress, coping skills, struggling with assertiveness, recovering from bullying
01684 211084 View 01684 211084

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lisa Peplow, BACP, Counsellor
Lisa Peplow
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Malvern WR13  (Online Only)
I am an experienced therapist with many years experience of working with individuals and couples. I have a person centred trauma informed approach which means that I will work with your own individual needs and tailor my approach accordingly. This will help you work towards achieving what you want and ultimately feel better. I provide long term and short term therapy. I will challenge you to work hard as I believe that people can adjust their behaviours if they want their lives to change for the better. I will help you every step of the way to make sure that this is not a quick fix, but something long lasting.
I am an experienced therapist with many years experience of working with individuals and couples. I have a person centred trauma informed approach which means that I will work with your own individual needs and tailor my approach accordingly. This will help you work towards achieving what you want and ultimately feel better. I provide long term and short term therapy. I will challenge you to work hard as I believe that people can adjust their behaviours if they want their lives to change for the better. I will help you every step of the way to make sure that this is not a quick fix, but something long lasting.
01905 975111 View 01905 975111
Photo of Isabel dos Santos Counsellor MBACP (Accred), MBACP, Counsellor
Isabel dos Santos Counsellor MBACP (Accred)
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Malvern WR13
Reasons for having Counselling: You might be struggling with your mood – stress, anxiety, fight and flight, overwhelmed. You tend to focus on others, and their needs, to the detriment of your own - in your relationships and career. It might feel like you’re in a vicious cycle. There is a way out. My approach: A solution-focused approach, embedded in well-established therapies – CBT, Psychodynamic therapy and EMDR. I encourage having clear goals and collaboration for better outcomes. I specialised in brief work, focusing on a particular issue.
Reasons for having Counselling: You might be struggling with your mood – stress, anxiety, fight and flight, overwhelmed. You tend to focus on others, and their needs, to the detriment of your own - in your relationships and career. It might feel like you’re in a vicious cycle. There is a way out. My approach: A solution-focused approach, embedded in well-established therapies – CBT, Psychodynamic therapy and EMDR. I encourage having clear goals and collaboration for better outcomes. I specialised in brief work, focusing on a particular issue.
01905 950167 View 01905 950167
Photo of Christalla Georgiou, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Christalla Georgiou
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Malvern WR14
My approach in sessions is centred on you, focusing on the here and now, current situations and difficulties you are experiencing. How you are feeling and behaving at present is often linked to past experiences which remain unresolved and continue to impact on your health and well-being today. Our sessions are based on respect, compassion, empathy and honesty. I will support you in exploring your reasons for wanting therapy, within a non-judgmental environment. By creating a safe, open and genuine relationship with you, we can together find ways to deal with the difficulties you are experiencing. The age range I work with is 18+.
My approach in sessions is centred on you, focusing on the here and now, current situations and difficulties you are experiencing. How you are feeling and behaving at present is often linked to past experiences which remain unresolved and continue to impact on your health and well-being today. Our sessions are based on respect, compassion, empathy and honesty. I will support you in exploring your reasons for wanting therapy, within a non-judgmental environment. By creating a safe, open and genuine relationship with you, we can together find ways to deal with the difficulties you are experiencing. The age range I work with is 18+.
01905 969077 View 01905 969077
Photo of Hannya Melrose, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Hannya Melrose
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Malvern WR13
I have worked for over 15 years as a body-oriented psychotherapist, specialising in prenatal & birth/ attachment issues, sexual trauma, life transitions & crisis. I am also a TRE (Tension Releasing Exercises) provider, to support the release of stress from the body/ mind. More recently I have trained to work with women of all ages & life stages around menstrual cycle awareness, the menopause passage & after & I am currently training as a women's transformational coach & facilitator. I feel passionately about supporting women to step into greater self-love, empowerment & fulfillment in all areas of their life.
I have worked for over 15 years as a body-oriented psychotherapist, specialising in prenatal & birth/ attachment issues, sexual trauma, life transitions & crisis. I am also a TRE (Tension Releasing Exercises) provider, to support the release of stress from the body/ mind. More recently I have trained to work with women of all ages & life stages around menstrual cycle awareness, the menopause passage & after & I am currently training as a women's transformational coach & facilitator. I feel passionately about supporting women to step into greater self-love, empowerment & fulfillment in all areas of their life.
01453 708236 View 01453 708236
Photo of Dr John Kenneth Pates, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr John Kenneth Pates
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Malvern WR14
Are you struggling to perform at your best, finding it difficult to manage your emotions, or letting fears hold you back, I can help. I’m Dr. John Pates, a Chartered, HCPC-registered Psychologist with 20 years of experience. While I have a proven track record with top athletes, including The Ryder Cup Team, World Champions, Olympic Champions, and Major winners, my expertise extends beyond sports. I've helped individuals from all walks of life achieve goals, overcome obstacles, and enhance well-being. Whether improving performance, managing stress, or seeking personal growth, I can guide and support you.
Are you struggling to perform at your best, finding it difficult to manage your emotions, or letting fears hold you back, I can help. I’m Dr. John Pates, a Chartered, HCPC-registered Psychologist with 20 years of experience. While I have a proven track record with top athletes, including The Ryder Cup Team, World Champions, Olympic Champions, and Major winners, my expertise extends beyond sports. I've helped individuals from all walks of life achieve goals, overcome obstacles, and enhance well-being. Whether improving performance, managing stress, or seeking personal growth, I can guide and support you.
01684 217938 View 01684 217938
Photo of Sylvie Worster, MBACP, Counsellor
Sylvie Worster
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Malvern WR14
I am a fully qualified Relate counsellor, experienced in working with couples and individuals who have relationship issues. I also work with people struggling with anxiety and depression, intimacy and sexual issues. I work in a systemic, psycho-dynamic way using a wide variety of techniques to suit each individual and specific situation. Are you experiencing relationship issues? Do you repeat the same patterns over and over again, often ending up in conflict? Do you find it difficult to express your emotions and feelings? Is attachment or trust an issue for you? Do you have issues around intimacy and sex?
I am a fully qualified Relate counsellor, experienced in working with couples and individuals who have relationship issues. I also work with people struggling with anxiety and depression, intimacy and sexual issues. I work in a systemic, psycho-dynamic way using a wide variety of techniques to suit each individual and specific situation. Are you experiencing relationship issues? Do you repeat the same patterns over and over again, often ending up in conflict? Do you find it difficult to express your emotions and feelings? Is attachment or trust an issue for you? Do you have issues around intimacy and sex?
01684 218594 View 01684 218594
Photo of Abigail Pamich, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Abigail Pamich
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Malvern WR14
I am a professional, compassionate Consultant Clinical Psychologist with twenty year of experience in helping people improve their mental health. I am also the Clinical Director of an established, busy private psychology practice called www.malvernhillsprivatepractice.co.uk based in Malvern, Worcestershire. We have a team of friendly, highly qualified Associates. We see clients for a whole range of difficulties, mild to severe, short to long term - children, adolescents and couples. We see clients daytime, evening and weekends. We also have an ADHD assessment and support service for adults with ADHD.
I am a professional, compassionate Consultant Clinical Psychologist with twenty year of experience in helping people improve their mental health. I am also the Clinical Director of an established, busy private psychology practice called www.malvernhillsprivatepractice.co.uk based in Malvern, Worcestershire. We have a team of friendly, highly qualified Associates. We see clients for a whole range of difficulties, mild to severe, short to long term - children, adolescents and couples. We see clients daytime, evening and weekends. We also have an ADHD assessment and support service for adults with ADHD.
01684 877115 View 01684 877115

Online Therapists

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 Rachel Perry - Rapport Counselling, DCounsPsych, MBACP, Counsellor
Rachel Perry - Rapport Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wirral CH60
I also offer Emotional Freedom Techniques ( EFT) - a really kind and gentle way to relieve psychological distress.
Hello and thanks for stopping. I love what I do. 'Extremely easy to talk to'...'turned things around for me'...'helped save my life' being a few client comments. I'm 11 years qualified. During that time I've worked with serving police officers and civilian staff at Merseyside Police, those supported by Victim Support Homicide Service, VI Form students, Occupational Health & EAP clients. I know that being a counsellor is something that was always meant for me because I have an affinity with people and being able to be 'with' them. This and my life experience gives me the perfect grounding to be the best that I can be for my clients.
I also offer Emotional Freedom Techniques ( EFT) - a really kind and gentle way to relieve psychological distress.
Hello and thanks for stopping. I love what I do. 'Extremely easy to talk to'...'turned things around for me'...'helped save my life' being a few client comments. I'm 11 years qualified. During that time I've worked with serving police officers and civilian staff at Merseyside Police, those supported by Victim Support Homicide Service, VI Form students, Occupational Health & EAP clients. I know that being a counsellor is something that was always meant for me because I have an affinity with people and being able to be 'with' them. This and my life experience gives me the perfect grounding to be the best that I can be for my clients.
0151 317 5014 View 0151 317 5014
Photo of Laura Duffy, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Laura Duffy
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunstable LU6
I am also an experienced Hypnotherapist & EFT Practitioner, whilst these therapies may not be for you there are certainly tools we can borrow from them such as calming & visualisation techniques which work great on anxiety, building confidence & self-esteem.
Hi, my name is Laura and I started my practice in 2014. My passion is helping people who suffer with depression and anxiety, having personal experience with both. I enjoy finding new and creative ways of helping people to find their happiness and be at one with themselves. We are all different and as such all need a different approach, we are not broken and certainly do not need fixing. We can all at some point need someone to talk to about an imbalance in our lives and by using various techniques proven to be effective you will be able to find that balance and achieve the life you want to live not only now but also in the future.
I am also an experienced Hypnotherapist & EFT Practitioner, whilst these therapies may not be for you there are certainly tools we can borrow from them such as calming & visualisation techniques which work great on anxiety, building confidence & self-esteem.
Hi, my name is Laura and I started my practice in 2014. My passion is helping people who suffer with depression and anxiety, having personal experience with both. I enjoy finding new and creative ways of helping people to find their happiness and be at one with themselves. We are all different and as such all need a different approach, we are not broken and certainly do not need fixing. We can all at some point need someone to talk to about an imbalance in our lives and by using various techniques proven to be effective you will be able to find that balance and achieve the life you want to live not only now but also in the future.
01582 369620 View 01582 369620
Alison Suzanne Oliver
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Leamington Spa CV31
I am also trained in EMDR, EFT and AIT, effective trauma therapies, that help to resolve long term influences to emotional stability, psychological well being and developmental, attachment or situational trauma.
Client's will be able to understand the historical and systemic influences to their problems and to find ways to create change both for themselves and others that they associate with. Many of my client's also have unresolved trauma that influences their day to day interactions, relationships, psychological state and/or physical health. They would hope to be able to make sense of both their mood and beliefs but to also be able to find ways to reprocess or clear any related trauma, make sense of associated anxiety, stress, behaviours and negative beliefs, to find ways to manage, think and behave differently and find new strengths.
I am also trained in EMDR, EFT and AIT, effective trauma therapies, that help to resolve long term influences to emotional stability, psychological well being and developmental, attachment or situational trauma.
Client's will be able to understand the historical and systemic influences to their problems and to find ways to create change both for themselves and others that they associate with. Many of my client's also have unresolved trauma that influences their day to day interactions, relationships, psychological state and/or physical health. They would hope to be able to make sense of both their mood and beliefs but to also be able to find ways to reprocess or clear any related trauma, make sense of associated anxiety, stress, behaviours and negative beliefs, to find ways to manage, think and behave differently and find new strengths.
01926 569078 View 01926 569078
Photo of Belén Plaza Higueras - EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy , MSc, GMBPsS, Psychotherapist
EMDR, PSYCH-K, CBT, EFT, Bach flowers, Homeopathy
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Bristol BS5
PgCert Intervention families, children with antisocial behaviour; Dip Integrative Bodywork; Dip Dance Movement Psychotherapy, EFT, Mindfulness, Bach flowers/homeopathy, Psych-K facilitator.
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
PgCert Intervention families, children with antisocial behaviour; Dip Integrative Bodywork; Dip Dance Movement Psychotherapy, EFT, Mindfulness, Bach flowers/homeopathy, Psych-K facilitator.
I believe that we all have the potential to heal ourselves. Are you aware that you have a negative mental state at work or in relationships? Is it persistent, or do you feel stressed, anxious, depressed, worried, and have a low level of liveliness? I can support you to find pathways to overcome these limitations. I am a compassionate integrative psychotherapist. I offer EMDR- 2013, Psych-K!, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy CBT, EFT, Mindfulness. Homeopathy (4 y), Bach flowers (BFP). I can help you to transform your life’s limitations arising from anxiety/ trauma, Personal, sleeping, relationships, work difficulties & others.
0117 374 7699 View 0117 374 7699
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 Sharon Fox, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred, Counsellor
Sharon Fox
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Redditch B97
As an Integrative Counsellor, I offer a variety of counselling styles to suit your individual needs including Person Centred Therapy, Single Session Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy, CBT, CEBT Eating Disorders), EFT and Outdoor Therapy.
Hi, my name is Sharon and I am a Psychotherapist based in Redditch offering face to face, phone and online therapy. I work online with clients from across the UK. I work with adults and young people age 13+ to improve mental health and emotional wellbeing. As a fully qualified and experienced Integrative Therapist and an Accredited member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists, I offer a relaxed and supportive space to talk. Whether you are looking for a brief, solution focussed approach or to work for longer on deeper issues, I can provide a safe, confidential environment to explore your concerns.
As an Integrative Counsellor, I offer a variety of counselling styles to suit your individual needs including Person Centred Therapy, Single Session Therapy, Solution Focussed Therapy, CBT, CEBT Eating Disorders), EFT and Outdoor Therapy.
Hi, my name is Sharon and I am a Psychotherapist based in Redditch offering face to face, phone and online therapy. I work online with clients from across the UK. I work with adults and young people age 13+ to improve mental health and emotional wellbeing. As a fully qualified and experienced Integrative Therapist and an Accredited member of the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists, I offer a relaxed and supportive space to talk. Whether you are looking for a brief, solution focussed approach or to work for longer on deeper issues, I can provide a safe, confidential environment to explore your concerns.
01527 381065 View 01527 381065
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 Nadine Hughes, MA, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Nadine Hughes
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hounslow TW4
I am an Intercultural Integrative Psychotherapist with a holistic approach, embracing of culture and spirituality. I support in various challenges such as Abandonment, Addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bereavement & loss, Depression, Dissociation, Low self esteem, Identity, PTSD, Relationship problems, Stress, Suicidal ideation, Self harm and much more. I am adept at building genuine, empathic and productive therapeutic working relationships, with clients wishing to gain a deeper sense and understanding of themselves & to build on their inner resources. Counselling Foundation Tutor and Certified EFT practitioner.
I am an Intercultural Integrative Psychotherapist with a holistic approach, embracing of culture and spirituality. I support in various challenges such as Abandonment, Addiction, Anger management, Anxiety, Bereavement & loss, Depression, Dissociation, Low self esteem, Identity, PTSD, Relationship problems, Stress, Suicidal ideation, Self harm and much more. I am adept at building genuine, empathic and productive therapeutic working relationships, with clients wishing to gain a deeper sense and understanding of themselves & to build on their inner resources. Counselling Foundation Tutor and Certified EFT practitioner.
020 3879 4776 View 020 3879 4776

See more therapy options for Ledbury

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.