Emotionally Focused Therapists in 23508

Photo of Sheronda Farrow, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Sheronda Farrow
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23508  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for helping and a quest for healing; understanding that recovery to wellness is a journey that you must take, with myself as a willing guide. It's my pleasure to assist you in discovering the tools you already possess to be successful on this journey. I've provided counseling and psychological testing services to children, adults, and families for 13 years. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, family/relationship issues, and anger management. Testing services include cognitive, achievement, and personality assessment. I also provide consultation, education, and training within the community.
I have a passion for helping and a quest for healing; understanding that recovery to wellness is a journey that you must take, with myself as a willing guide. It's my pleasure to assist you in discovering the tools you already possess to be successful on this journey. I've provided counseling and psychological testing services to children, adults, and families for 13 years. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, family/relationship issues, and anger management. Testing services include cognitive, achievement, and personality assessment. I also provide consultation, education, and training within the community.
(757) 350-8807 View (757) 350-8807
Photo of Anita Wiles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Wiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23508
Sometimes we all feel overwhelmed and need to learn healthier ways to cope. Stress can impact your relationships, work, and your physical wellbeing. Whether your concern centers around family issues, work or school pressures, relationships, illness, or one of life's many unexpected challenges - we can work together to develop your strengths and coping skills, with the overall goal of you living a life of optimal wellness. I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years. I earned my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been a LCSW since 1995.
Sometimes we all feel overwhelmed and need to learn healthier ways to cope. Stress can impact your relationships, work, and your physical wellbeing. Whether your concern centers around family issues, work or school pressures, relationships, illness, or one of life's many unexpected challenges - we can work together to develop your strengths and coping skills, with the overall goal of you living a life of optimal wellness. I have been in the mental health field for over 25 years. I earned my MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and have been a LCSW since 1995.
(757) 571-8708 View (757) 571-8708
Photo of Alice Marie Conner, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alice Marie Conner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23508
I believe strongly in the power of the human spirit and that the wisdom resides within each one of us on how best to facilitate our own healing, growth, and emancipation. My experience as a private music instructor and performing musician, as well as my work with the profoundly mentally ill, has solidified my belief in the healing power of the expressive arts. I will work with you through both verbal and non-verbal ways as a means of personal transformation and healing. I am honored to be a supportive part of your brave and transcendent journey to healing.
I believe strongly in the power of the human spirit and that the wisdom resides within each one of us on how best to facilitate our own healing, growth, and emancipation. My experience as a private music instructor and performing musician, as well as my work with the profoundly mentally ill, has solidified my belief in the healing power of the expressive arts. I will work with you through both verbal and non-verbal ways as a means of personal transformation and healing. I am honored to be a supportive part of your brave and transcendent journey to healing.
(757) 707-1556 View (757) 707-1556
Photo of Kevin Hernandez, MSEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kevin Hernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23508
Hi, I am a resident in counseling with a passion for working with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, and men’s issues. I work with all ages however my area of focus is teens and adults. While those are my primary specialties and population my clinical experiences also include working with ADHD, emotional eating, material conflicts, grief and trauma.
Hi, I am a resident in counseling with a passion for working with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, and men’s issues. I work with all ages however my area of focus is teens and adults. While those are my primary specialties and population my clinical experiences also include working with ADHD, emotional eating, material conflicts, grief and trauma.
(757) 781-1026 View (757) 781-1026
Photo of Holly Wingate, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Wingate
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23508  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Holly Anne Wingate and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia, Florida, and Virginia who has over 20 years of experience providing assessment and therapy to adults, adolescents, and couples seeking help with anxiety/depression, trauma-related problems, alcohol, and drug addiction, relationship problems, personality disorders, and LGBTQ related issues. I'll be a strong and concerned ally for you and will give all of my attention to the complexity of your situation and, along with you (you really are the expert when it comes to who you are), will develop a plan to tackle the situation and remedy the issues be
Hi, my name is Holly Anne Wingate and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Georgia, Florida, and Virginia who has over 20 years of experience providing assessment and therapy to adults, adolescents, and couples seeking help with anxiety/depression, trauma-related problems, alcohol, and drug addiction, relationship problems, personality disorders, and LGBTQ related issues. I'll be a strong and concerned ally for you and will give all of my attention to the complexity of your situation and, along with you (you really are the expert when it comes to who you are), will develop a plan to tackle the situation and remedy the issues be
(757) 586-4201 View (757) 586-4201
Photo of Susan Amory, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Amory
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23508  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and have been practicing since 2014. I have a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Radford University (1992), Master of Arts in Education from Norfolk State University (1997), and Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University (2015). I was a high school teacher for 21 years teaching students with special needs before beginning my career in clinical counseling.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and have been practicing since 2014. I have a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Radford University (1992), Master of Arts in Education from Norfolk State University (1997), and Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University (2015). I was a high school teacher for 21 years teaching students with special needs before beginning my career in clinical counseling.
(757) 996-4924 View (757) 996-4924

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Stovall - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Norfolk, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Norfolk
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23507
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(757) 300-0267 View (757) 300-0267
Photo of Victoria Holroyd - The Relationship Center of Hampton Roads, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, DCMHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Relationship Center of Hampton Roads
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, DCMHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23517
Extensively trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, proven by research to be the most effective method of couples therapy, we specialize in infidelity, nonmonagamy, narcissistic abuse and intimacy issues as well as transitions such as engagement, parenting, divorce and stepparenting.
No intimacy? Infidelity? Addiction? Relationships are complicated! We know how overwhelming and painful communication and other challenges that emerge in intimate relationships can be. We also know the potential for change, growth, and connection that is possible in working through these issues with professional support. We use techniques based on the cutting-edge of relationship and neuroscience research to help make sense of communication breakdowns and patterns of conflict. We are passionate about diversity and inclusion and provide care through a multicultural, attachment-based, gender-affirmative, and trauma-informed lens.
Extensively trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, proven by research to be the most effective method of couples therapy, we specialize in infidelity, nonmonagamy, narcissistic abuse and intimacy issues as well as transitions such as engagement, parenting, divorce and stepparenting.
No intimacy? Infidelity? Addiction? Relationships are complicated! We know how overwhelming and painful communication and other challenges that emerge in intimate relationships can be. We also know the potential for change, growth, and connection that is possible in working through these issues with professional support. We use techniques based on the cutting-edge of relationship and neuroscience research to help make sense of communication breakdowns and patterns of conflict. We are passionate about diversity and inclusion and provide care through a multicultural, attachment-based, gender-affirmative, and trauma-informed lens.
(757) 517-3938 View (757) 517-3938
Photo of Caleb Abrams, CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, CCATP
Caleb Abrams
CSAT, CCTP, CAIMHP, CASDCS, CCATP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23504  (Online Only)
Caleb has developed unique skills and uses state of the art counseling techniques based off of the newest research, such as EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, EFT Tapping, Mindfulness, Restoration Therapy techniques, Biblical Counseling, and the CSAT task model for recovery.
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Caleb has developed unique skills and uses state of the art counseling techniques based off of the newest research, such as EMDR (Bilateral Stimulation), CBT, EFT Tapping, Mindfulness, Restoration Therapy techniques, Biblical Counseling, and the CSAT task model for recovery.
Caleb is Christian Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Counselor (CSAT), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP), Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (CASDCS), and Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). Caleb specializes in helping men work through addiction recovery, anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. His passion is to provide a safe space for his clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
(307) 275-7327 View (307) 275-7327
Photo of Denise Tatum, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Tatum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23507  (Online Only)
Depending on your preferences and goals, I draw on methods including cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, and emotionally focused therapy.
I'm Denise Tatum, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families manage challenges such as mental stress, life transitions, infidelity, divorce, family conflict, anger, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I have had the privilege of working with children and families from diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings, and I pride myself on creating a comfortable and welcoming therapeutic environment where clients feel encouraged to be their authentic selves.
Depending on your preferences and goals, I draw on methods including cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, and emotionally focused therapy.
I'm Denise Tatum, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families manage challenges such as mental stress, life transitions, infidelity, divorce, family conflict, anger, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. I have had the privilege of working with children and families from diverse backgrounds in a variety of settings, and I pride myself on creating a comfortable and welcoming therapeutic environment where clients feel encouraged to be their authentic selves.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Beth Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23507
My clients often overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life changes with the support of emotionally focused therapy.
Way to go about taking the first step to start therapy! It's tough to feel any balance. Stressors weigh on you and may even add to your anxiety and depression symptoms. Perhaps you may be struggling and at a loss for what to do and how to do it. I can support you to find the best strategies to tackle these stressors and get back to balance despite the many things we aren't able to change in the world now. I've spent many years working with individuals to navigate their symptoms to work together to make daily life feel more balanced. I have extensive training and experience to treat the whole person with a mindful approach.
My clients often overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and life changes with the support of emotionally focused therapy.
Way to go about taking the first step to start therapy! It's tough to feel any balance. Stressors weigh on you and may even add to your anxiety and depression symptoms. Perhaps you may be struggling and at a loss for what to do and how to do it. I can support you to find the best strategies to tackle these stressors and get back to balance despite the many things we aren't able to change in the world now. I've spent many years working with individuals to navigate their symptoms to work together to make daily life feel more balanced. I have extensive training and experience to treat the whole person with a mindful approach.
(828) 481-8686 View (828) 481-8686
Photo of Candice Joy (Happach) Craig, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candice Joy (Happach) Craig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23517  (Online Only)
Formally Mrs.Happach, I know the pressure to perform is crushing at times. Having a high-profile job means never letting anyone see that you and your partner are disconnected emotionally and unhappy every day. He looks like he doesn't care but on the inside, he furiously wants to keep her and is experiencing high levels of depression, stress, and fear, as well as lower levels of self-esteem. Emotionally-Focused Couples therapy can give your relationship issues the healing you need with privacy and confidentiality- you have control by holding your virtual therapy session in your home. You know you need help from someone who gets it.
Formally Mrs.Happach, I know the pressure to perform is crushing at times. Having a high-profile job means never letting anyone see that you and your partner are disconnected emotionally and unhappy every day. He looks like he doesn't care but on the inside, he furiously wants to keep her and is experiencing high levels of depression, stress, and fear, as well as lower levels of self-esteem. Emotionally-Focused Couples therapy can give your relationship issues the healing you need with privacy and confidentiality- you have control by holding your virtual therapy session in your home. You know you need help from someone who gets it.
(757) 418-6220 View (757) 418-6220
Photo of Sarah M. Heidel, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Sarah M. Heidel
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23517  (Online Only)
I strive to provide a space for my clients to share their authentic selves. Feeling understood and accepted as a whole person is one of the most healing aspects of psychotherapy. Through a collaborative and trusting relationship, I aim to provide holistic care and treatment which is tailored to each individual's needs and goals. I have experience treating clients who have a variety of presenting concerns and diagnoses including: anxiety, depression, bipolar, AD/HD, life transitions, and identity and relationship challenges. My primary goal is to guide you towards your vision of a full and meaningful life!
I strive to provide a space for my clients to share their authentic selves. Feeling understood and accepted as a whole person is one of the most healing aspects of psychotherapy. Through a collaborative and trusting relationship, I aim to provide holistic care and treatment which is tailored to each individual's needs and goals. I have experience treating clients who have a variety of presenting concerns and diagnoses including: anxiety, depression, bipolar, AD/HD, life transitions, and identity and relationship challenges. My primary goal is to guide you towards your vision of a full and meaningful life!
(757) 269-9407 View (757) 269-9407
Photo of Sarah R Massie, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah R Massie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23505
Waitlist for new clients
It is a privilege and honor to be able to assist those who are struggling with issues that are impacating their lives in a negative way including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, abuse, divorce, parenting, ADHD, relationship, and more. It takes a great deal of courage to choose to journey on the path of growth, healing, and wholeness, and you will find compassion, safety, and unconditional acceptance if you choose to allow me to join you in this important season of your life.
It is a privilege and honor to be able to assist those who are struggling with issues that are impacating their lives in a negative way including depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, abuse, divorce, parenting, ADHD, relationship, and more. It takes a great deal of courage to choose to journey on the path of growth, healing, and wholeness, and you will find compassion, safety, and unconditional acceptance if you choose to allow me to join you in this important season of your life.
(757) 941-4508 View (757) 941-4508
Photo of Adele Martelle, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adele Martelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23517
Hey there! I am a somatic oriented psychotherapist, certified trauma professional, public speaker, and spiritual integrationist. I'm known for my warm, deeply engaged, and person-centered approach that presents clients with opportunities for clarity, growth, and connection. I strive to do this in trauma-informed and creative ways. Lots of times we know what's wrong or what we need to do but actually feeling better and getting unstuck requires something more. I offer experiential somatic and bottom-up therapies that consider the mind, body, and spirit.
Hey there! I am a somatic oriented psychotherapist, certified trauma professional, public speaker, and spiritual integrationist. I'm known for my warm, deeply engaged, and person-centered approach that presents clients with opportunities for clarity, growth, and connection. I strive to do this in trauma-informed and creative ways. Lots of times we know what's wrong or what we need to do but actually feeling better and getting unstuck requires something more. I offer experiential somatic and bottom-up therapies that consider the mind, body, and spirit.
(757) 919-1841 View (757) 919-1841
Photo of Dayna Northart Griffin, MA, PhD, Psychologist
Dayna Northart Griffin
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23507  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed psychologist with 15 years of experience in supporting people and their mental health. My goal is to meet you where you are to help you feel empowered and in control of your life. It is important to me to build a strong therapeutic relationship with each person by being compassionate, empathetic, warm, and with a splash of fun so you can have a positive experience for healing and growth. I offer support through telemedicine via video chat or phone calls to provide you with flexible, accessible care. -I am no longer accepting clients in California-
I'm a licensed psychologist with 15 years of experience in supporting people and their mental health. My goal is to meet you where you are to help you feel empowered and in control of your life. It is important to me to build a strong therapeutic relationship with each person by being compassionate, empathetic, warm, and with a splash of fun so you can have a positive experience for healing and growth. I offer support through telemedicine via video chat or phone calls to provide you with flexible, accessible care. -I am no longer accepting clients in California-
(540) 509-0130 View (540) 509-0130
Photo of Nefertari J. Britto, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nefertari J. Britto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23517  (Online Only)
Come unwind your stress and struggles with me today. I am a warm, down to earth, therapist who's passionate about helping people get unstuck and emotionally set free. I'm committed to providing comprehensive and client-centered care, using a variety of therapeutic modalities to address a wide range of mental health issues. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, stress to relationship issues or any other mental health challenges, I am dedicated to tailoring support to you, walking alongside you to help guide and empower you to overcome life's challenges and to live a truly balanced and fulfilled life.
Come unwind your stress and struggles with me today. I am a warm, down to earth, therapist who's passionate about helping people get unstuck and emotionally set free. I'm committed to providing comprehensive and client-centered care, using a variety of therapeutic modalities to address a wide range of mental health issues. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, stress to relationship issues or any other mental health challenges, I am dedicated to tailoring support to you, walking alongside you to help guide and empower you to overcome life's challenges and to live a truly balanced and fulfilled life.
(757) 568-7164 View (757) 568-7164
Photo of Kelly Bonebright, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Bonebright
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23517  (Online Only)
Kelly was born in Lynchburg Virginia and raised in Southern California but has been back east in this area since the early 90s. Kelly is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), with over a decade of experience across many different settings consisting of inpatient, outpatient, intensive in-home, university, mental health agency work. Kelly graduated from liberty University with his PhD in professional counseling in January 2013; and has taught graduate students in group therapy skills and individual therapy techniques. Kelly tends to be eclectic in his counseling approach, employing CBT, person centered, reality therapy.
Kelly was born in Lynchburg Virginia and raised in Southern California but has been back east in this area since the early 90s. Kelly is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), with over a decade of experience across many different settings consisting of inpatient, outpatient, intensive in-home, university, mental health agency work. Kelly graduated from liberty University with his PhD in professional counseling in January 2013; and has taught graduate students in group therapy skills and individual therapy techniques. Kelly tends to be eclectic in his counseling approach, employing CBT, person centered, reality therapy.
(757) 349-1439 View (757) 349-1439
Photo of Merideth Henderson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Merideth Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23517
Life can be challenging at times, and sometimes we all may struggle with knowing how to deal with those challenges. From daily stress, feelings of emptiness, traumatic experiences, or even relationship problems, we can get bogged down under the weight of these problems and struggle to find our way through. This is where therapy with a professional can help.
Life can be challenging at times, and sometimes we all may struggle with knowing how to deal with those challenges. From daily stress, feelings of emptiness, traumatic experiences, or even relationship problems, we can get bogged down under the weight of these problems and struggle to find our way through. This is where therapy with a professional can help.
(757) 231-3685 View (757) 231-3685
Photo of Claire V Ficker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claire V Ficker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23517
Hello, I'm Claire, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker! I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they face challenges, overcome hardships and traumas from the past, and write the story of their future. I utilize evidenced-based practices like EMDR and CPT in my practice, helping clients overcome painful experiences and find ways to regulate their nervous systems to create new meaning. I also work alongside The Headstrong Project, providing therapy to veterans and military families. I value a collaborative, authentic approach to counseling- I show up as authentically me and invite you to show up as the authentic version of you.
Hello, I'm Claire, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker! I am honored to walk alongside my clients as they face challenges, overcome hardships and traumas from the past, and write the story of their future. I utilize evidenced-based practices like EMDR and CPT in my practice, helping clients overcome painful experiences and find ways to regulate their nervous systems to create new meaning. I also work alongside The Headstrong Project, providing therapy to veterans and military families. I value a collaborative, authentic approach to counseling- I show up as authentically me and invite you to show up as the authentic version of you.
(757) 210-7852 View (757) 210-7852

See more therapy options for 23508

Emotionally Focused Therapists

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.