Emotionally Focused Therapists in Calabasas, CA

Photo of Pixie Polowy, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Pixie Polowy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
I integrate evidence-based approaches such as Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, DBT, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I support busy couples, parents, and adults who feel stuck in the daily grind as they face stressor after stressor. If you face anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or burnout, I'm confident you can feel calm, connected, and content again! We can better understand what keeps you from feeling fulfilled through a holistic, strengths-based approach and by becoming curious about your underlying emotions, behavior patterns, and lingering pain. I'll empower you with proven techniques to become less reactive and more resilient in the face of distress so you can work towards experiencing a new-found connection with yourself and others.
I integrate evidence-based approaches such as Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, DBT, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I support busy couples, parents, and adults who feel stuck in the daily grind as they face stressor after stressor. If you face anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or burnout, I'm confident you can feel calm, connected, and content again! We can better understand what keeps you from feeling fulfilled through a holistic, strengths-based approach and by becoming curious about your underlying emotions, behavior patterns, and lingering pain. I'll empower you with proven techniques to become less reactive and more resilient in the face of distress so you can work towards experiencing a new-found connection with yourself and others.
(818) 924-4842 View (818) 924-4842
Photo of Nelli Tonoyan, MA, APCC
Nelli Tonoyan
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
My approach is rooted in cultivating emotional understanding and connection through emotionally focused, client-centered, and attachment-based therapy.
My focus is on supporting individuals navigating through challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, low self-esteem, life transitions, self-harm, and more.
My approach is rooted in cultivating emotional understanding and connection through emotionally focused, client-centered, and attachment-based therapy.
My focus is on supporting individuals navigating through challenges such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, family conflict, low self-esteem, life transitions, self-harm, and more.
(310) 340-0554 View (310) 340-0554
Photo of Mary N. Tovmasian, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mary N. Tovmasian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
I incorporate techniques from attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and narrative therapy.
At times life can become difficult to navigate, whether we feel constantly worried, stuck, or uncertain. By exploring and creating a deeper understanding of our sense of self we grow to a place of individual & relational healing. My therapeutic approach prioritizes nurturing a safe space for all to feel heard and seen. I am passionate about supporting the mental health of clients related to past experiences, including individual and relational work, and nurturing a cycle of healing, positivity, and happiness for the future. I hope to provide you with a space that is healing and supportive in creating the life you seek.
I incorporate techniques from attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and narrative therapy.
At times life can become difficult to navigate, whether we feel constantly worried, stuck, or uncertain. By exploring and creating a deeper understanding of our sense of self we grow to a place of individual & relational healing. My therapeutic approach prioritizes nurturing a safe space for all to feel heard and seen. I am passionate about supporting the mental health of clients related to past experiences, including individual and relational work, and nurturing a cycle of healing, positivity, and happiness for the future. I hope to provide you with a space that is healing and supportive in creating the life you seek.
(747) 269-6321 View (747) 269-6321
Photo of Jill C. Campbell, PsyD, Psychologist
Jill C. Campbell
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
My therapeutic approach is eclectic in that I pull from a number of different theoretical orientations including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, psychodynamic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and emotionally focused therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, maternal mental health, women’s issues, life transitions, and parenting. Through my experience, I’ve learned to base my practice around what science calls the negativity bias. This is the notion that when we struggle, we are neurobiologically wired to make sense of our struggle by creating a negative story around it. The negativity bias often keeps us feeling defeated, broken and not good enough.
My therapeutic approach is eclectic in that I pull from a number of different theoretical orientations including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, psychodynamic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and emotionally focused therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, maternal mental health, women’s issues, life transitions, and parenting. Through my experience, I’ve learned to base my practice around what science calls the negativity bias. This is the notion that when we struggle, we are neurobiologically wired to make sense of our struggle by creating a negative story around it. The negativity bias often keeps us feeling defeated, broken and not good enough.
(818) 938-8609 View (818) 938-8609
Photo of Heather M. Zeug, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather M. Zeug
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
In addition to my general therapy practice, I have specialized training in Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression and Anxiety; Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and Grief work.
Therapy gives us an opportunity to look at the problem areas in our lives in a safe and non-judgmental environment so that we can find ways to make the changes we desire. As a licensed psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience working with individuals and couples, I work with clients to help manage the feelings associated with life's struggles; recognize, understand and change self-defeating patterns; heal past pain; discover and foster inner strength; and learn new ways to cope that allow a person to get what they want and feel good about themselves.
In addition to my general therapy practice, I have specialized training in Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression and Anxiety; Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and Grief work.
Therapy gives us an opportunity to look at the problem areas in our lives in a safe and non-judgmental environment so that we can find ways to make the changes we desire. As a licensed psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience working with individuals and couples, I work with clients to help manage the feelings associated with life's struggles; recognize, understand and change self-defeating patterns; heal past pain; discover and foster inner strength; and learn new ways to cope that allow a person to get what they want and feel good about themselves.
(818) 863-6410 View (818) 863-6410
Photo of Courtney Killough Roff - Courtney Killough, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Killough
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
In marriage and couple counseling, I help you move from negative, hurtful and lonely dynamics to internal safety and a deeper emotional connection through Attachment-based Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy.
Do you feel out of alignment with your authentic self or disconnected from your partner? I help you develop self-awareness and a new relationship with your thoughts and emotions to increase conscious choices, purpose, and relational connections. If you are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, or a lack of self-esteem, I utilize Mindfulness-Based Cognitive (CBT) tools to shift limiting beliefs and quiet ‘dis-ease’ present for you to move into ‘ease-ful' states. Clients describe me as warm, nonjudgmental, patient and as having an empathetic presence with an assertive approach. Check out testimonials on my website to read more!
In marriage and couple counseling, I help you move from negative, hurtful and lonely dynamics to internal safety and a deeper emotional connection through Attachment-based Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy.
Do you feel out of alignment with your authentic self or disconnected from your partner? I help you develop self-awareness and a new relationship with your thoughts and emotions to increase conscious choices, purpose, and relational connections. If you are struggling with grief, anxiety, depression, or a lack of self-esteem, I utilize Mindfulness-Based Cognitive (CBT) tools to shift limiting beliefs and quiet ‘dis-ease’ present for you to move into ‘ease-ful' states. Clients describe me as warm, nonjudgmental, patient and as having an empathetic presence with an assertive approach. Check out testimonials on my website to read more!
(424) 392-6136 View (424) 392-6136
Photo of Sara Vicendese - Sara Vicendese & Associates , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Vicendese & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
I also completed an externship in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression? Is your mood affecting your relationships or career? Sometimes life's challenges become difficult to overcome alone. I offer free phone consultations to see if my practice might be the right fit for your needs. I have diverse training and experience working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. While there are no guarantees of what you will experience, therapy has shown significant benefits for most people who go through it. And being here, on this site, is an important first step.
I also completed an externship in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy.
Are you experiencing feelings of anxiety or depression? Is your mood affecting your relationships or career? Sometimes life's challenges become difficult to overcome alone. I offer free phone consultations to see if my practice might be the right fit for your needs. I have diverse training and experience working with adults, adolescents, couples and families. While there are no guarantees of what you will experience, therapy has shown significant benefits for most people who go through it. And being here, on this site, is an important first step.
(310) 504-1898 View (310) 504-1898
Photo of Dr. Angie Gereis, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Angie Gereis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
Research shows that the number one predictor to therapeutic success is the relationship you have with your therapist; I pride myself on providing a therapy space that is centered around you, supported by evidence based treatments (like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy), racial and ethnic inclusivity, and a "whole person" approach.
Hi, there. I know you've been searching for the right therapist, and I know it's frustrating to try to find someone you connect with. Whatever brings you here, I understand that trying to "have it all" in today's world is a goal that feels unachievable. Whether you have been feeling overwhelmed with worrying thoughts, not feeling like yourself, are grieving, going through a major transition, or want to work on your relationships with yourself and others, I believe we can make sense of it all together. You do not need to have all the answers all alone.
Research shows that the number one predictor to therapeutic success is the relationship you have with your therapist; I pride myself on providing a therapy space that is centered around you, supported by evidence based treatments (like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy), racial and ethnic inclusivity, and a "whole person" approach.
Hi, there. I know you've been searching for the right therapist, and I know it's frustrating to try to find someone you connect with. Whatever brings you here, I understand that trying to "have it all" in today's world is a goal that feels unachievable. Whether you have been feeling overwhelmed with worrying thoughts, not feeling like yourself, are grieving, going through a major transition, or want to work on your relationships with yourself and others, I believe we can make sense of it all together. You do not need to have all the answers all alone.
(818) 696-4243 View (818) 696-4243
Photo of Sandy Pedram Esq. Lmft, Esq, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandy Pedram Esq. Lmft
Marriage & Family Therapist, Esq, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
As an Emotionally Focused Therapist, I help you heal by shifting from fear/avoidance to curiosity/harnessing emotion's power to constructively negotiate unmet needs from others.
Do you find yourself alone or struggling to feel comfortable in a current relationship? Is it difficult for you to balance being true to yourself with staying connected to others. Do unresolved experiences from the past and ways you’ve learned to behave/self-protect in relationships disrupt your present life. Are contextual factors influencing the choices you make, undermining your personal power. Are you stagnating in the safe and familiar, as opposed to moving onward toward change, growth, intimacy, and health. These are all great reasons to come explore with me in order to strengthen your relationship to yourself and others.
As an Emotionally Focused Therapist, I help you heal by shifting from fear/avoidance to curiosity/harnessing emotion's power to constructively negotiate unmet needs from others.
Do you find yourself alone or struggling to feel comfortable in a current relationship? Is it difficult for you to balance being true to yourself with staying connected to others. Do unresolved experiences from the past and ways you’ve learned to behave/self-protect in relationships disrupt your present life. Are contextual factors influencing the choices you make, undermining your personal power. Are you stagnating in the safe and familiar, as opposed to moving onward toward change, growth, intimacy, and health. These are all great reasons to come explore with me in order to strengthen your relationship to yourself and others.
(310) 991-2111 View (310) 991-2111
Photo of Maren Jorgensen, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maren Jorgensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
I use Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and attachment theory to build a framework, but am eclectic in nature-- meaning I use the approach that best suits your needs and is tailored to you as an individual.
Receiving therapy should no longer be a taboo. Confiding in others and receiving professional help is something we all do in many facets of our life. Most of us see a doctor or go get our car fixed when we have issues with our physical health or a tire is loose, so why not see a therapist to help improve our mental health? Therapy can also be preventative. Why wait before issues feel too far out of reach?
I use Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and attachment theory to build a framework, but am eclectic in nature-- meaning I use the approach that best suits your needs and is tailored to you as an individual.
Receiving therapy should no longer be a taboo. Confiding in others and receiving professional help is something we all do in many facets of our life. Most of us see a doctor or go get our car fixed when we have issues with our physical health or a tire is loose, so why not see a therapist to help improve our mental health? Therapy can also be preventative. Why wait before issues feel too far out of reach?
(858) 221-6961 View (858) 221-6961
Photo of Benjamin Gilbert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Benjamin Gilbert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
My experience as a therapist has taken me to diverse settings and introduced me to many different people, from small children to older adults. Along the way, I have learned that no one approach to therapy will work for everyone. Instead, I strive to establish a strong relationship with my clients by meeting them where they are. Together, we explore the unique challenges that brought them to therapy. Together, we zero in on desired therapeutic goals and lay out a fresh path toward positive change.
My experience as a therapist has taken me to diverse settings and introduced me to many different people, from small children to older adults. Along the way, I have learned that no one approach to therapy will work for everyone. Instead, I strive to establish a strong relationship with my clients by meeting them where they are. Together, we explore the unique challenges that brought them to therapy. Together, we zero in on desired therapeutic goals and lay out a fresh path toward positive change.
(424) 399-5367 View (424) 399-5367
Photo of Marsha Hawkins, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marsha Hawkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
I support individuals, families, and couples, resolve life stressors, and trauma, and regain balance. I am a bilingual (Spanish/ English) therapist who has extensive experience treating, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, mood-related Disorders, and attachment. In doing so, I weave together different modalities to support a client's whole self mind, body, and spirit.
I support individuals, families, and couples, resolve life stressors, and trauma, and regain balance. I am a bilingual (Spanish/ English) therapist who has extensive experience treating, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, Borderline Personality Disorder, mood-related Disorders, and attachment. In doing so, I weave together different modalities to support a client's whole self mind, body, and spirit.
(424) 374-3151 View (424) 374-3151
Photo of Briar Flicker-Grossman, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briar Flicker-Grossman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
With over 30 years experience as a Psychotherapist, certified with a Doctorate in Psychoanalysis, and trained in Ontological Coaching, I am committed to being of service and making a difference with you. I work with individuals of all ages including babies-with-parent; families; and couples, all dealing with the difficult experiences and issues life can present internally and externally. I also offer groups for adults and teens. Come to understand your thoughts and emotions deeply, and develop your feelings of accomplishment, happiness, and fulfillment in all areas of life. All sessions are now via tele-health due to the pandemic.
With over 30 years experience as a Psychotherapist, certified with a Doctorate in Psychoanalysis, and trained in Ontological Coaching, I am committed to being of service and making a difference with you. I work with individuals of all ages including babies-with-parent; families; and couples, all dealing with the difficult experiences and issues life can present internally and externally. I also offer groups for adults and teens. Come to understand your thoughts and emotions deeply, and develop your feelings of accomplishment, happiness, and fulfillment in all areas of life. All sessions are now via tele-health due to the pandemic.
(424) 250-2631 View (424) 250-2631
Photo of Sarah Limcaco, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Limcaco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
Beginning therapy can be one of the most difficult things we do. It can also be the most rewarding. It is stepping into the unknown and taking an unfamiliar path to a destination that may seem completely out of reach. Therapy is a journey and I will be your travel companion. It is my firm belief that as humans, we just want to be seen and heard. In my practice, I strive to create an environment that is safe, nurturing and most importantly, free of judgement so that I can both see and hear you.
Beginning therapy can be one of the most difficult things we do. It can also be the most rewarding. It is stepping into the unknown and taking an unfamiliar path to a destination that may seem completely out of reach. Therapy is a journey and I will be your travel companion. It is my firm belief that as humans, we just want to be seen and heard. In my practice, I strive to create an environment that is safe, nurturing and most importantly, free of judgement so that I can both see and hear you.
(747) 229-0824 View (747) 229-0824
Photo of Hannah Golestaneh, PsyD, Psychologist
Hannah Golestaneh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
I recognize and maximize the individual’s strengths, also help them to use their environmental support in their healing process. I believe there is no “one size fits all” type of therapy, I fit my style of therapy according to the need of my patients by using integrative approaches when it is suitable for my clients. I passionately follow cutting edge research in the field of neuroscience and take a lot of advantage of their finding in my practice. I have a broad range of experience in working with adolescents, adults and geriatric with the a very diverse background.
I recognize and maximize the individual’s strengths, also help them to use their environmental support in their healing process. I believe there is no “one size fits all” type of therapy, I fit my style of therapy according to the need of my patients by using integrative approaches when it is suitable for my clients. I passionately follow cutting edge research in the field of neuroscience and take a lot of advantage of their finding in my practice. I have a broad range of experience in working with adolescents, adults and geriatric with the a very diverse background.
(747) 322-4216 View (747) 322-4216
Photo of Ornah Medovoi, JD, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ornah Medovoi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, JD, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
I believe that healing and wellness in therapy begin with a relationship rooted in trust and authenticity. I therefore seek to create a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their vulnerabilities and make meaning of their life experiences. No matter the problem, whether feeling stuck; experiencing relational difficulty; unresolved childhood issues; chronic pain; a challenging life transition; trauma; or behavior and mood-related issues, such as eating disorders, depression, and anxiety, I bring to treatment unwavering support, compassion, curiosity, and insight, as we work through such problems.
I believe that healing and wellness in therapy begin with a relationship rooted in trust and authenticity. I therefore seek to create a safe, non-judgmental space for my clients to explore their vulnerabilities and make meaning of their life experiences. No matter the problem, whether feeling stuck; experiencing relational difficulty; unresolved childhood issues; chronic pain; a challenging life transition; trauma; or behavior and mood-related issues, such as eating disorders, depression, and anxiety, I bring to treatment unwavering support, compassion, curiosity, and insight, as we work through such problems.
(747) 269-6682 View (747) 269-6682
Photo of Melina Sattari, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melina Sattari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
I understand each of us has our own journey of growth in this lifetime, so I am very respectful of my client’s individual circumstances, struggles, identify issues, current functions and needs. I guide and assist my clients to understand the underlying issues of their discomfort and help develop plans and strategies that serve to reach their highest good in their journey to become whole.
I understand each of us has our own journey of growth in this lifetime, so I am very respectful of my client’s individual circumstances, struggles, identify issues, current functions and needs. I guide and assist my clients to understand the underlying issues of their discomfort and help develop plans and strategies that serve to reach their highest good in their journey to become whole.
(818) 672-5230 View (818) 672-5230
Photo of Robyn Blythe, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Blythe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
As a therapist, I value and create a safe, nurturing, and empathic environment for individuals, couples, and families to explore underlying issues to relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and addictions. I am trained & certified in EMDR, which helps a person to quickly move through recent and past trauma and successfully overcome symptoms related to PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). We'll work together to help you find a healthy balance between body, mind, and emotions that allow for success in relationships and work, self-empowerment, and to live a life full of hope, meaning, and purpose.
(818) 203-0246 View (818) 203-0246
Photo of Lisa Strawn, MA
Lisa Strawn
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Calabasas, CA 91302  (Online Only)
Are you constantly walking on eggshells in your relationship? Have you tried to communicate your concerns but it seems to end in an argument? It can feel exhausting to repeat a negative communication cycle where the problem isn't resolved and you feel emotional connection and intimacy are blocked. There is hope, I work with individuals and couples to explore their relationship patterns and transform their connection to each other. In relationships we often find a mirror for our personal growth and development. Adolescent struggles, family conflict and children who experience learning challenges are other areas of focus in my work.
Are you constantly walking on eggshells in your relationship? Have you tried to communicate your concerns but it seems to end in an argument? It can feel exhausting to repeat a negative communication cycle where the problem isn't resolved and you feel emotional connection and intimacy are blocked. There is hope, I work with individuals and couples to explore their relationship patterns and transform their connection to each other. In relationships we often find a mirror for our personal growth and development. Adolescent struggles, family conflict and children who experience learning challenges are other areas of focus in my work.
(714) 868-7252 View (714) 868-7252
Photo of Erica Ives - Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS, MA, MFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calabasas, CA 91302
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
(818) 639-4273 View (818) 639-4273
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.