Emotionally Focused Therapists in Hermosa Beach, CA
![Photo of Margaret (Mae) Chen - Margaret Mae Chen South Bay Child & Family Therapy, JD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c22614c-d4a3-415d-9df5-12c594c21ebe/3/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Mae Chen South Bay Child & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), parts-work, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-narrative therapy, and the Satir growth model are examples of therapeutic modalities that inform, inspire, and influence her work.
Do anxiety, fear, guilt, shame, or anger limit you from relating and living fully? Are you facing adversity, at a crossroads, or worried about yourself or a loved one? Are you feeling disconnected, dissatisfied, and stuck? Do you need individual, couples, or family therapy? If you answered yes to any of these questions, know that you are not alone. With courage, compassion, and curiosity, you can adapt, transform, and overcome the circumstances that prevent you from living your best life.
EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), parts-work, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-narrative therapy, and the Satir growth model are examples of therapeutic modalities that inform, inspire, and influence her work.
Do anxiety, fear, guilt, shame, or anger limit you from relating and living fully? Are you facing adversity, at a crossroads, or worried about yourself or a loved one? Are you feeling disconnected, dissatisfied, and stuck? Do you need individual, couples, or family therapy? If you answered yes to any of these questions, know that you are not alone. With courage, compassion, and curiosity, you can adapt, transform, and overcome the circumstances that prevent you from living your best life.
![Photo of Helene Bringsli, AMFT, EFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da2b4e07-8ea3-4318-a89c-971187613253/1/320x400.png)
Helene Bringsli
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
For couples, I specialize in guiding you through the transformative process of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), fostering deeper emotional connections and improved communication and intimacy.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here, taking this courageous step toward healing and growth. Whether you're an individual or a couple, I’m here to support you in navigating the complexities of your relationships and personal journey. If you're facing communication challenges, unresolved trauma, or simply want a deeper connection in your life, we can work together to create a nurturing space where you can explore these issues and grow. By creating a safe, judgment-free space, I help you connect with your true self and work through the obstacles holding you back.
For couples, I specialize in guiding you through the transformative process of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), fostering deeper emotional connections and improved communication and intimacy.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here, taking this courageous step toward healing and growth. Whether you're an individual or a couple, I’m here to support you in navigating the complexities of your relationships and personal journey. If you're facing communication challenges, unresolved trauma, or simply want a deeper connection in your life, we can work together to create a nurturing space where you can explore these issues and grow. By creating a safe, judgment-free space, I help you connect with your true self and work through the obstacles holding you back.
![Photo of Brooke M Sklar - Brooke M. Sklar, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30ad67de-141d-4b43-9f34-f35cd33eeef4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brooke M. Sklar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with adults, teens and couples suffering with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, OCD, grief, life transitions, intimate relationship difficulties and more. I strive to provide a safe space where you can heal and grow. My approach is holistic and strength based. I have advanced training in EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
I work with adults, teens and couples suffering with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, OCD, grief, life transitions, intimate relationship difficulties and more. I strive to provide a safe space where you can heal and grow. My approach is holistic and strength based. I have advanced training in EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
![Photo of Stacy Knupfer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d98d00d-1c58-4dd7-93df-be332e0de607/3/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Knupfer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, a modality that helps couples restore intimacy and closeness by re-building loving and secure relationships.
Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, marital issues, parenting concerns, or anything else--you should know that there is a better way to manage your life. Supporting mothers throughout the stages of motherhood is something I hold close to my heart. I am also extremely passionate about my work with teen girls, especially those who struggle with academic pressures. I facilitate two girls' group each week that focuses on friendships, self-esteem, self-care, and coping skills for middle and high school.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, a modality that helps couples restore intimacy and closeness by re-building loving and secure relationships.
Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, marital issues, parenting concerns, or anything else--you should know that there is a better way to manage your life. Supporting mothers throughout the stages of motherhood is something I hold close to my heart. I am also extremely passionate about my work with teen girls, especially those who struggle with academic pressures. I facilitate two girls' group each week that focuses on friendships, self-esteem, self-care, and coping skills for middle and high school.
![Photo of Courtney Caverly, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/544d3d5c-c0d0-4a15-b061-de173f11997f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Caverly
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Struggling to manage a busy household, kids activities and have no time for yourself? Feeling overwhelmed with career and family responsibilities? Or wondering why you and your partner just can't seem to communicate? You don't have to go through this alone.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Struggling to manage a busy household, kids activities and have no time for yourself? Feeling overwhelmed with career and family responsibilities? Or wondering why you and your partner just can't seem to communicate? You don't have to go through this alone.
![Photo of Kryss Castle, MS, LMFT, EFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47b2d4ab-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kryss Castle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I draw from extensive training that includes EFT – tapping for trauma, anxiety, and managing intense emotions or memories – and years of experience addressing drug and alcohol addiction with individuals and families.
Teens are fabulous in all their glory and craziness! Helping teens and young adults find their courage to transform, change ways that don’t serve them, and be who they are is my passion. I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. In addition to in-office sessions, I’ve worked in more than ten schools throughout the South Bay providing group and individual therapy to students. I also work with adults and professionals in high-stress careers who have come to a crossroads with a relationship or career, are struggling with stress and anxiety, or are having trouble finding passion and purpose in their lives.
I draw from extensive training that includes EFT – tapping for trauma, anxiety, and managing intense emotions or memories – and years of experience addressing drug and alcohol addiction with individuals and families.
Teens are fabulous in all their glory and craziness! Helping teens and young adults find their courage to transform, change ways that don’t serve them, and be who they are is my passion. I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. In addition to in-office sessions, I’ve worked in more than ten schools throughout the South Bay providing group and individual therapy to students. I also work with adults and professionals in high-stress careers who have come to a crossroads with a relationship or career, are struggling with stress and anxiety, or are having trouble finding passion and purpose in their lives.
![Photo of Tina Hartney, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f765c09-b1b6-4b07-8a34-7e330b3ac033/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tina Hartney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I specialize in healing Relationships and am trained in IFS and EFT. I can support you and your spouse, partner, child, relative or friend in deepening understanding and improving communication. Whether your relationship is in trouble, needs fine tuning or is dissolving, I can help. We will work to move through any fears or pain that are blocking your way. While the journey can be challenging, my goal is to travel alongside you with compassion and support.
I specialize in healing Relationships and am trained in IFS and EFT. I can support you and your spouse, partner, child, relative or friend in deepening understanding and improving communication. Whether your relationship is in trouble, needs fine tuning or is dissolving, I can help. We will work to move through any fears or pain that are blocking your way. While the journey can be challenging, my goal is to travel alongside you with compassion and support.
![Photo of Anat Sideman, MA, LMFT, ESQ, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/974c4fde-2677-4b3d-ab46-db91cdd884e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anat Sideman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ESQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Treatment specialization includes: Individual therapy - healing and growth; Couples therapy - Emotionally Focused Therapy; Family therapy - improving communication; Parenting support - raising children with special needs; Depression, Stress and Anxiety; Divorce - supporting clients through the process of separation and divorce.
We are all capable of greater joy and intimacy in our lives. Partnering with the right therapist can be an important step towards that personal growth. Whether you're struggling with marital issues, lack of intimacy, infidelity, parenting concerns, the grief over the loss of a loved one, or feelings of depression, anxiety or despair, you are not alone. My intention is to help you develop clarity about the nature of your experiences, awareness of your strengths and challenges and empowerment in your daily life. Through this process of exploration you can move towards an enhanced confidence and more gratifying, loving relationships.
Treatment specialization includes: Individual therapy - healing and growth; Couples therapy - Emotionally Focused Therapy; Family therapy - improving communication; Parenting support - raising children with special needs; Depression, Stress and Anxiety; Divorce - supporting clients through the process of separation and divorce.
We are all capable of greater joy and intimacy in our lives. Partnering with the right therapist can be an important step towards that personal growth. Whether you're struggling with marital issues, lack of intimacy, infidelity, parenting concerns, the grief over the loss of a loved one, or feelings of depression, anxiety or despair, you are not alone. My intention is to help you develop clarity about the nature of your experiences, awareness of your strengths and challenges and empowerment in your daily life. Through this process of exploration you can move towards an enhanced confidence and more gratifying, loving relationships.
![Photo of Christina Calzadilla, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/522bd087-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Calzadilla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
With Emotionally Focused Therapy, I help couples rebuild, restore, and deepen their connection.
“There isn’t anyone you couldn’t love once you’ve heard their story. ” ― Mary Lou Kownacki. We usually have good reasons for feeling the way we do. With curiosity and compassion, and without judgement, I want to see the world from your eyes. Once I meet you where you are, I can help you take steps toward living a rich, full, and meaningful life. Life brings us all kinds of challenges that can leave us stuck in patterns of relating to others, creating disconnection and feeling stuck in feelings we want to escape from. What would it be like to break free of those patterns, to deal with painful thoughts and feelings effectively?
With Emotionally Focused Therapy, I help couples rebuild, restore, and deepen their connection.
“There isn’t anyone you couldn’t love once you’ve heard their story. ” ― Mary Lou Kownacki. We usually have good reasons for feeling the way we do. With curiosity and compassion, and without judgement, I want to see the world from your eyes. Once I meet you where you are, I can help you take steps toward living a rich, full, and meaningful life. Life brings us all kinds of challenges that can leave us stuck in patterns of relating to others, creating disconnection and feeling stuck in feelings we want to escape from. What would it be like to break free of those patterns, to deal with painful thoughts and feelings effectively?
![Photo of Brenda Perry, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/496a4b49-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brenda Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My approach to therapy is based on developing a deep emotional connection with the people in our lives, improving self-esteem, accessing inner resources to cope with difficulties and learning to have compassion for ourselves and others. Although therapy can be very helpful when we are going through a difficult time in our lives, it is also an important self-care practice. Just like we attend yoga or the gym to take care of our bodies, taking care of our emotional and mental health is just as important. For me, wellness needs to be holistic, both body and mind need to be treated to truly achieve inner peace and fulfillment.
My approach to therapy is based on developing a deep emotional connection with the people in our lives, improving self-esteem, accessing inner resources to cope with difficulties and learning to have compassion for ourselves and others. Although therapy can be very helpful when we are going through a difficult time in our lives, it is also an important self-care practice. Just like we attend yoga or the gym to take care of our bodies, taking care of our emotional and mental health is just as important. For me, wellness needs to be holistic, both body and mind need to be treated to truly achieve inner peace and fulfillment.
![Photo of Asya Rachitsky, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b8b10cc-c0d2-42ff-97c2-e3bf2504ebbd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Asya Rachitsky
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Like many people, you’re probably here because you (or someone you love) is hurting. You may be stressed in a job you don’t like, struggling in your romantic relationship, or battling personal wounds you have difficulty managing. I can help.
Like many people, you’re probably here because you (or someone you love) is hurting. You may be stressed in a job you don’t like, struggling in your romantic relationship, or battling personal wounds you have difficulty managing. I can help.
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![Photo of Rachel Harris, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d3a744e-eba8-4c41-8d2f-8a1c5a0ffbda/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping people lead the life they want and deserve. We all need to be seen, heard, and be accepted. But, when these needs are not met we may experience loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which stops us from leading a meaningful life. My diverse life experiences as a top security screener, a specialized groups coordinator, a world traveler, and a philosopher, combined with my professional trainings, enable me with a unique perspective and knowledge on how to nurture, support, and promote a life worth living. I specialize working with adults, teens, and couples, and families.
I am passionate about helping people lead the life they want and deserve. We all need to be seen, heard, and be accepted. But, when these needs are not met we may experience loneliness, anxiety, and depression, which stops us from leading a meaningful life. My diverse life experiences as a top security screener, a specialized groups coordinator, a world traveler, and a philosopher, combined with my professional trainings, enable me with a unique perspective and knowledge on how to nurture, support, and promote a life worth living. I specialize working with adults, teens, and couples, and families.
![Photo of Melissa I Capin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f20f0b03-a4d8-49f3-b83c-ece91c2e8403/2/320x400.jpeg)
You used to be happy and engaged in life until something changed..life is not what it used to be. Your relationship/s are struggling.You don’t enjoy the activities you once did. You have difficulty concentrating/focusing on important things. You ruminate and it keeps you awake at night. You used to make plans with family/friends now you isolate. You feel sad/alone/angry. Your resentment keeps building…you feel unheard. You want to feel happy and reengage in life . Do things that fulfill you. Make plans with loved ones…repair relationships. You want to be in control of your life and Get back to a life that feels good.
You used to be happy and engaged in life until something changed..life is not what it used to be. Your relationship/s are struggling.You don’t enjoy the activities you once did. You have difficulty concentrating/focusing on important things. You ruminate and it keeps you awake at night. You used to make plans with family/friends now you isolate. You feel sad/alone/angry. Your resentment keeps building…you feel unheard. You want to feel happy and reengage in life . Do things that fulfill you. Make plans with loved ones…repair relationships. You want to be in control of your life and Get back to a life that feels good.
![Photo of Claudia Elizabeth Williams - Facing It Together, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/224470b6-8d88-41a3-97a8-83f22997dac0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Facing It Together
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Hi, my name is Dia Williams, I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations. I very much like a positive and holistic approach to therapy. Starting your healing journey can seem overwhelming and lonely. My aim is to walk alongside and help you gain a better understanding of how your experiences have impacted the way you approach life.
Hi, my name is Dia Williams, I am a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with diverse populations. I very much like a positive and holistic approach to therapy. Starting your healing journey can seem overwhelming and lonely. My aim is to walk alongside and help you gain a better understanding of how your experiences have impacted the way you approach life.
![Photo of Andrea S Kahrs, LMFT, CCPS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1a70786-0971-4b52-87ef-c75e280208ab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life transitions exist in all parts of our lives and those changes, whether good or bad, can be challenging to navigate. I specialize in working with couples, families & individuals seeking Counseling and/or Mediation during various stages of their relationships. I also specialize in Sex Addiction Betrayal Trauma and Infidelity. I work with the partners of a sex addicts. Partners of sex addicts find their lives have been turned upside down. Life as they knew it has vanished. I can help to navigate through this new ground and prepare for disclosure if that is desired by the partner.
Life transitions exist in all parts of our lives and those changes, whether good or bad, can be challenging to navigate. I specialize in working with couples, families & individuals seeking Counseling and/or Mediation during various stages of their relationships. I also specialize in Sex Addiction Betrayal Trauma and Infidelity. I work with the partners of a sex addicts. Partners of sex addicts find their lives have been turned upside down. Life as they knew it has vanished. I can help to navigate through this new ground and prepare for disclosure if that is desired by the partner.
![Photo of Melissa Solem Turan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c6153e8-c7da-44a4-8262-7281998999be/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with clients who are seeking change in their life. My goal is to help you identify and alter specific aspects of your life that are not working, as well as amplify the parts that are. I am energetic and active with my clients in not only exploring underlying emotional issues that are perpetuating presenting problems, but also to find and use effective solutions to these issues. The goal is to better improve your life and increase the health and balance of your mind, body, and soul.
I work with clients who are seeking change in their life. My goal is to help you identify and alter specific aspects of your life that are not working, as well as amplify the parts that are. I am energetic and active with my clients in not only exploring underlying emotional issues that are perpetuating presenting problems, but also to find and use effective solutions to these issues. The goal is to better improve your life and increase the health and balance of your mind, body, and soul.
![Photo of Rebecca Rouse, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/19227607-c259-4210-bcde-af4e26fb354b/5/320x400.jpeg)
Life often presents difficult obstacles that can stand between who you are and who you want to be. Some obstacles may be unhealthy patterns in your relationships, overwhelming sadness or worry, not feeling good enough, or a loss of direction or purpose in your life.
Life often presents difficult obstacles that can stand between who you are and who you want to be. Some obstacles may be unhealthy patterns in your relationships, overwhelming sadness or worry, not feeling good enough, or a loss of direction or purpose in your life.
![Photo of Steven Mason, PsyD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e15ec280-8db2-4188-b76b-ce6281de482b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I work with individuals, couples and teens who are interested in emotional growth and integration. I focus on helping people to understand the whole of their experience, including unwanted or shameful experiences like sadness, grief, anger and fear. I use a depth-focus to help people to understand what is going on in their lives and minds incorporating dreams, past trauma and harmful repetitions. This authentic and engaging process seeks to promote effective life choices, rewarding relationships, maintain healthy boundaries and a sense of agency.
I work with individuals, couples and teens who are interested in emotional growth and integration. I focus on helping people to understand the whole of their experience, including unwanted or shameful experiences like sadness, grief, anger and fear. I use a depth-focus to help people to understand what is going on in their lives and minds incorporating dreams, past trauma and harmful repetitions. This authentic and engaging process seeks to promote effective life choices, rewarding relationships, maintain healthy boundaries and a sense of agency.
![Photo of Julie Wensel, MA, AMFT, CTP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/388cfe81-5e45-464b-92f3-5228d227f96a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Wensel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Hi, my name is Julie, I support individuals and couples who may struggle with trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, and stress. Your needs and struggles are unique, and as humans, we all have the resilience to heal and live a meaningful life. My job is to remind you of your strengths, explore what may be holding you back, give you tools to self-regulate, and insight into yourself. I use a gentle and straightforward approach to help you reconnect, understand your inner world, and feel more empowered in your decisions. My goal is for you to process and overcome the obstacles that pull you back in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Hi, my name is Julie, I support individuals and couples who may struggle with trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, and stress. Your needs and struggles are unique, and as humans, we all have the resilience to heal and live a meaningful life. My job is to remind you of your strengths, explore what may be holding you back, give you tools to self-regulate, and insight into yourself. I use a gentle and straightforward approach to help you reconnect, understand your inner world, and feel more empowered in your decisions. My goal is for you to process and overcome the obstacles that pull you back in a supportive and collaborative environment.
![Photo of Shari Giti, PsyD, MM, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f24fe68-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shari Giti is a child & adolescent psychologist and the Clinical Director of South Bay Child and Family Therapy--a comprehensive psychological practice in Hermosa Beach and Torrance/Palos Verdes. At SBCFT, Dr. Giti provides child, teen, and family therapy. She also specializes in psychological, educational, and AD/HD, assessment services. In addition to training and experience in child therapy, Dr. Giti completed a prestigious fellowship in Child/Adolescent Assessment and Diagnostics. She works hand-in-hand with educators, physicians and other treatment team members to ensure the highest quality care for her patients.
Dr. Shari Giti is a child & adolescent psychologist and the Clinical Director of South Bay Child and Family Therapy--a comprehensive psychological practice in Hermosa Beach and Torrance/Palos Verdes. At SBCFT, Dr. Giti provides child, teen, and family therapy. She also specializes in psychological, educational, and AD/HD, assessment services. In addition to training and experience in child therapy, Dr. Giti completed a prestigious fellowship in Child/Adolescent Assessment and Diagnostics. She works hand-in-hand with educators, physicians and other treatment team members to ensure the highest quality care for her patients.
See more therapy options for Hermosa Beach
Nearby Emotionally Focused Therapists Searches for Hermosa Beach
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- Palos Verdes Estates
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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.