Emotionally Focused Therapists in La Jolla, CA
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT)- an evidence-based approach, grounded in attachment, and known to be the the most effective couple therapy.
The decision to seek therapy takes courage. I believe therapy is most helpful when done in an accepting and comfortable environment. I work collaboratively with you to assist you in attaining your personal goals, explore avenues for growth, and achieve emotional well-being. I understand that every individual and couple is unique and I approach treatment with this in mind. I know that each client enters therapy with specific strengths and I do my best to help you pull from those strengths. My approach to therapy can be described as compassionate, active, warm, and gently challenging.
I am certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT)- an evidence-based approach, grounded in attachment, and known to be the the most effective couple therapy.
The decision to seek therapy takes courage. I believe therapy is most helpful when done in an accepting and comfortable environment. I work collaboratively with you to assist you in attaining your personal goals, explore avenues for growth, and achieve emotional well-being. I understand that every individual and couple is unique and I approach treatment with this in mind. I know that each client enters therapy with specific strengths and I do my best to help you pull from those strengths. My approach to therapy can be described as compassionate, active, warm, and gently challenging.
Taylor Poppmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have additional training as a couples therapist in Emotional Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Therapy is about compassion, vulnerability, and connection; it can also be about pushing yourself toward growth, creating change, and evolving into who you want to be. I would love to work with you to identify areas of potential and develop a path to success. I use a direct approach to build a real relationship with you. I don't shy away from difficult topics. Making a big leap can be daunting but finding fulfillment is worth the jump. I focus on individuals facing big life changes. As a Tricare provider and the child of a retired service member, I understand the unique stressors faced by the military community and their families.
I have additional training as a couples therapist in Emotional Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Therapy is about compassion, vulnerability, and connection; it can also be about pushing yourself toward growth, creating change, and evolving into who you want to be. I would love to work with you to identify areas of potential and develop a path to success. I use a direct approach to build a real relationship with you. I don't shy away from difficult topics. Making a big leap can be daunting but finding fulfillment is worth the jump. I focus on individuals facing big life changes. As a Tricare provider and the child of a retired service member, I understand the unique stressors faced by the military community and their families.
My background includes EMDR, EFT for couples, CBT, and 4 years as a career coach.
Welcome, Bem Vindo, Bienvenido! I'm a native Brazilian offering sessions in English, Portuguese, or Spanglish. I live and work in La Jolla, CA and have been enjoying beautiful San Diego since 1996. I have conducted over 20 thousand therapy sessions, and over 1 thousand Psych Assessments. I am thrilled to share a culturally sensitive and unique therapeutic approach and will be an active participant in our sessions. And yes, that means, together, we will likely laugh, cry, discuss relationships, worries, fears, and/or self sabotaging but all in an effort to help you move forward into the person you know that you know you can be.
My background includes EMDR, EFT for couples, CBT, and 4 years as a career coach.
Welcome, Bem Vindo, Bienvenido! I'm a native Brazilian offering sessions in English, Portuguese, or Spanglish. I live and work in La Jolla, CA and have been enjoying beautiful San Diego since 1996. I have conducted over 20 thousand therapy sessions, and over 1 thousand Psych Assessments. I am thrilled to share a culturally sensitive and unique therapeutic approach and will be an active participant in our sessions. And yes, that means, together, we will likely laugh, cry, discuss relationships, worries, fears, and/or self sabotaging but all in an effort to help you move forward into the person you know that you know you can be.
I am grounded in Object Relations, Certified in Stepfamily Counseling, EFT, Process Therapy Model, Gottman Couples Counseling, as well as a Continuing Education Provider 4428.
Depressed? Anxious? Not quite feeling your best self? When we're having relationship problems, sometimes we just can't untangle them on our own. It's not uncommon to feel inadequate, or like you can't adapt to circumstances. I provide a safe environment for you to examine what's happening in your life. Through insight, behavioral changes, and emotional awareness we will explore your issues. I've been working with individuals and couples for well over 30 years. I specialize in working with stepfamilies/stepparents. Give me a call.
I am grounded in Object Relations, Certified in Stepfamily Counseling, EFT, Process Therapy Model, Gottman Couples Counseling, as well as a Continuing Education Provider 4428.
Depressed? Anxious? Not quite feeling your best self? When we're having relationship problems, sometimes we just can't untangle them on our own. It's not uncommon to feel inadequate, or like you can't adapt to circumstances. I provide a safe environment for you to examine what's happening in your life. Through insight, behavioral changes, and emotional awareness we will explore your issues. I've been working with individuals and couples for well over 30 years. I specialize in working with stepfamilies/stepparents. Give me a call.
Bryson Greaves
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
My practice centers around Emotionally Focused Therapy and Attachment informed therapies to help individuals, couples, and families address the core communication patterns that leave them feeling stuck and disconnected.
Interpersonal relationships are powerful contributors to our overall health. Our intimate partner relationships, family relationships, work or peer relationships tend to affect us in meaningful ways. When our relational lives are strong and connected we feel satisfied, empowered, hopeful, and more confident. When our relational lives are hurting, we feel anxious, sad, pained, frustrated, and left not knowing what to do to improve it. I work with my clients to address the heart of their stressors working toward tangible results with lasting effects. I work collaboratively & passionately to create a safe, responsive, and supportive environment to address your needs.
My practice centers around Emotionally Focused Therapy and Attachment informed therapies to help individuals, couples, and families address the core communication patterns that leave them feeling stuck and disconnected.
Interpersonal relationships are powerful contributors to our overall health. Our intimate partner relationships, family relationships, work or peer relationships tend to affect us in meaningful ways. When our relational lives are strong and connected we feel satisfied, empowered, hopeful, and more confident. When our relational lives are hurting, we feel anxious, sad, pained, frustrated, and left not knowing what to do to improve it. I work with my clients to address the heart of their stressors working toward tangible results with lasting effects. I work collaboratively & passionately to create a safe, responsive, and supportive environment to address your needs.
My therapeutic approach integrates a strength-based philosophy with emotionally focused therapy and mindfulness training.
I help clients mend their broken hearts and calm their overactive minds by joining them in their journey towards deeper self-awareness through kindness and compassion. I whole-heartedly believe in the beauty of each person's unique perspective, and at the same time, gently encourage clients to be mindful of the universal human experiences of love and loss. Thus, providing comfort while helping clients explore issues that are difficult or painful. My creative and empathetic approach can assist clients in breaking a repetitive mindset by allowing them to gain new perspective through fresh insights, support and empowerment.
My therapeutic approach integrates a strength-based philosophy with emotionally focused therapy and mindfulness training.
I help clients mend their broken hearts and calm their overactive minds by joining them in their journey towards deeper self-awareness through kindness and compassion. I whole-heartedly believe in the beauty of each person's unique perspective, and at the same time, gently encourage clients to be mindful of the universal human experiences of love and loss. Thus, providing comfort while helping clients explore issues that are difficult or painful. My creative and empathetic approach can assist clients in breaking a repetitive mindset by allowing them to gain new perspective through fresh insights, support and empowerment.
Amanda Malka
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
While I love utilizing narrative therapy, I do incorporate other modalities (IFS, EFT, CBT, DBT) where I see fit to meet the specific needs of my clients/couples.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist residing in San Diego, California. I have great passion supporting and empowering my clients while they walk through their healing journey and take the steps to seek the change they are wanting for their life. I am a clinician who believes in health at every size, and I am passionate about providing a safe and welcoming space for individuals who may be struggling with body image and self-esteem. I also have experience working with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, those undergoing life transitions, people pleasers, and identity work.
While I love utilizing narrative therapy, I do incorporate other modalities (IFS, EFT, CBT, DBT) where I see fit to meet the specific needs of my clients/couples.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist residing in San Diego, California. I have great passion supporting and empowering my clients while they walk through their healing journey and take the steps to seek the change they are wanting for their life. I am a clinician who believes in health at every size, and I am passionate about providing a safe and welcoming space for individuals who may be struggling with body image and self-esteem. I also have experience working with clients who have anxiety, depression, trauma, those undergoing life transitions, people pleasers, and identity work.
Brittany Nicole James-Vilavanh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I utilize unconditional positive regard to facilitate a person-centered approach that focuses on utilizing elements of ACT, DBT, IFS, emotionally focused, CBT, solution-focused, Attachment-focused, and psychoeducation to help clients reach their goals, understand and change their view of themselves, the root of their issues,and reduce distressing symptoms.
Hi, I'm Brittany, I'm an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist serving California, and the San Diego area.Choosing to start therapy can feel overwhelming and difficult to navigate for many. This is why I strive to ensure that this transition is as smooth as possible and that you feel safe, comfortable, and confident working with me. I am a great fit for those who are motivated to change, grow, and heal. I enjoy treating trauma, anxiety, couples issues, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, and attatchment issues. I am supportive, compassionate and collaborate, and I utilize evidence based techniques to help facilitate healing and growth.
I utilize unconditional positive regard to facilitate a person-centered approach that focuses on utilizing elements of ACT, DBT, IFS, emotionally focused, CBT, solution-focused, Attachment-focused, and psychoeducation to help clients reach their goals, understand and change their view of themselves, the root of their issues,and reduce distressing symptoms.
Hi, I'm Brittany, I'm an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist serving California, and the San Diego area.Choosing to start therapy can feel overwhelming and difficult to navigate for many. This is why I strive to ensure that this transition is as smooth as possible and that you feel safe, comfortable, and confident working with me. I am a great fit for those who are motivated to change, grow, and heal. I enjoy treating trauma, anxiety, couples issues, depression, self-esteem, ADHD, and attatchment issues. I am supportive, compassionate and collaborate, and I utilize evidence based techniques to help facilitate healing and growth.
Diego Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
My areas of specialization are working with couples to address relational conflict, repair broken trust, and foster increased intimate connection using an approach called Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I don't take for granted the strength and vulnerability it takes to enter into therapy; and as a clinician, my goal is to meet you where you are and help to create an environment that allows for both authentic exploration and fostering trust that there is an opportunity for healing and growth. In working together, I hope that my calm, curious, and intentional communication style helps you to feel heard, understood, and supported throughout our time together.
My areas of specialization are working with couples to address relational conflict, repair broken trust, and foster increased intimate connection using an approach called Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT).
I don't take for granted the strength and vulnerability it takes to enter into therapy; and as a clinician, my goal is to meet you where you are and help to create an environment that allows for both authentic exploration and fostering trust that there is an opportunity for healing and growth. In working together, I hope that my calm, curious, and intentional communication style helps you to feel heard, understood, and supported throughout our time together.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy as well as other modes of therapy.
I help couples connect. I specialize in helping couples feeling disconnected from each other; communicate better, heal from injuries to the relationship or simply start out right in their marriages. I provide a safe structure where couples can share openly, understand why they argue and begin breaking the negative cycle they get stuck in during arguments. Finding a pathway to stay connected as a couple can change your relationship.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy as well as other modes of therapy.
I help couples connect. I specialize in helping couples feeling disconnected from each other; communicate better, heal from injuries to the relationship or simply start out right in their marriages. I provide a safe structure where couples can share openly, understand why they argue and begin breaking the negative cycle they get stuck in during arguments. Finding a pathway to stay connected as a couple can change your relationship.
As a master EFT clinician and supervisor I'm also licensed in other states and a certified EFT Supervisor & Trainer (highest certification available).
As a Certified EFT Trainer, Supervisor and Therapist I am ready to support your healing. Emotionally Focused Therapy is long established as the Gold Standard for relationship repair and is effective with trauma, depression, anxiety, communication and connection concerns. It can be difficult to reach out and find a good therapist that’s a good fit. If you get stuck in the same argument over and over with your partner; if you feel misunderstood; if you want to be heard, appreciated, and feel "in-love" again, or need direction about how to feel better, I can help.
As a master EFT clinician and supervisor I'm also licensed in other states and a certified EFT Supervisor & Trainer (highest certification available).
As a Certified EFT Trainer, Supervisor and Therapist I am ready to support your healing. Emotionally Focused Therapy is long established as the Gold Standard for relationship repair and is effective with trauma, depression, anxiety, communication and connection concerns. It can be difficult to reach out and find a good therapist that’s a good fit. If you get stuck in the same argument over and over with your partner; if you feel misunderstood; if you want to be heard, appreciated, and feel "in-love" again, or need direction about how to feel better, I can help.
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Dr. Jodi Stanley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I utilize the highly effective methods of Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP).
I am genuinely passionate about supporting people through stressful life experiences to live healthier, happier lives. I help couples and families overcome disconnection to rebuild and strengthen their closeness. I also specialize in supporting individuals, including, children, adolescents, and adults, who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem. I work collaboratively with clients to enhance quality of life by combining insight, emotional exploration, and direction. I provide neutral support, guidance, and relief to develop healthy ways of coping, to expand inner growth, and to restore relational bonds.
I utilize the highly effective methods of Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP).
I am genuinely passionate about supporting people through stressful life experiences to live healthier, happier lives. I help couples and families overcome disconnection to rebuild and strengthen their closeness. I also specialize in supporting individuals, including, children, adolescents, and adults, who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem. I work collaboratively with clients to enhance quality of life by combining insight, emotional exploration, and direction. I provide neutral support, guidance, and relief to develop healthy ways of coping, to expand inner growth, and to restore relational bonds.
I have advanced couples training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), certificates in Levels 1-3 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, EMDR, and PREPARE ENRICH.
Stop and envision what your best self, relationship, job, life look like. Are you currently where you want to be? If not, what is standing in your way? Is it fear? Lack of time? Feel stuck? Don’t know where to start? Change can be hard and scary. But better days are ahead and I want to help you get there. You are not alone on this journey. If you are ready to get started in LIVING the life you envision for yourself, let’s get started. Call me today for a free consultation.
I have advanced couples training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), certificates in Levels 1-3 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, EMDR, and PREPARE ENRICH.
Stop and envision what your best self, relationship, job, life look like. Are you currently where you want to be? If not, what is standing in your way? Is it fear? Lack of time? Feel stuck? Don’t know where to start? Change can be hard and scary. But better days are ahead and I want to help you get there. You are not alone on this journey. If you are ready to get started in LIVING the life you envision for yourself, let’s get started. Call me today for a free consultation.
Explore Counseling Group (nee Caldwell-Clark)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AMFT, APC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
New name - same quality counseling! A nonprofit established by Ben Caldwell and Aimee Clark in 2011, we have a team of compassionate and skilled associates ready to provide high-quality, affordable services to inform, improve, restore, and strengthen both the individual sense of self, and human relationships. Our focus includes, but is not limited to: Couples, Families, Parenting, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Problems, Grief and Hospice, High Conflict Relationships, and Behavior Problems. Our counselors are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Trauma Therapy (EMDR), and more.
New name - same quality counseling! A nonprofit established by Ben Caldwell and Aimee Clark in 2011, we have a team of compassionate and skilled associates ready to provide high-quality, affordable services to inform, improve, restore, and strengthen both the individual sense of self, and human relationships. Our focus includes, but is not limited to: Couples, Families, Parenting, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Problems, Grief and Hospice, High Conflict Relationships, and Behavior Problems. Our counselors are trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Trauma Therapy (EMDR), and more.
Sara Vicendese & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
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.
Dr. Regina Bordieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
I have extensive experience helping couples & families cope with life transitions & heal past relationship injuries. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) to help couples escape negative cycles, reduce conflict & reconnect - research consistently shows 90% report significant improvements. I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, and relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis. I offer flexible scheduling options including Sat & Sun every weekend & online schedule to self-book appointments.
I have extensive experience helping couples & families cope with life transitions & heal past relationship injuries. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) to help couples escape negative cycles, reduce conflict & reconnect - research consistently shows 90% report significant improvements. I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, and relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis. I offer flexible scheduling options including Sat & Sun every weekend & online schedule to self-book appointments.
I incorporate aspects of Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and Person-Centered approaches.
If you’re struggling with PTSD, navigating a major life transition, or exploring your LGBTQ+ identity, I am here to support you. These experiences can leave you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or uncertain about the future. PTSD might make you feel on edge or stuck in past traumas, while life transitions can create a sense of loss or disorientation. Exploring your LGBTQ+ identity might bring up questions or fears about acceptance and self-understanding. Together, we will work to understand your feelings, build resilience, and create a path towards healing and self-discovery.
I incorporate aspects of Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and Person-Centered approaches.
If you’re struggling with PTSD, navigating a major life transition, or exploring your LGBTQ+ identity, I am here to support you. These experiences can leave you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or uncertain about the future. PTSD might make you feel on edge or stuck in past traumas, while life transitions can create a sense of loss or disorientation. Exploring your LGBTQ+ identity might bring up questions or fears about acceptance and self-understanding. Together, we will work to understand your feelings, build resilience, and create a path towards healing and self-discovery.
Stephanie Wallace
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
I also use EFT and Gottman Method, especially when working with couples.
I thrive working with adult survivors of childhood trauma and the following symptoms that may accompany surviving childhood trauma such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, C-PTSD, addiction, codependency, and other relationship issues. I also enjoy helping people process grief, loss, and life transitions. I work with identity issues and LGBTQIA+ community as well.
I also use EFT and Gottman Method, especially when working with couples.
I thrive working with adult survivors of childhood trauma and the following symptoms that may accompany surviving childhood trauma such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, C-PTSD, addiction, codependency, and other relationship issues. I also enjoy helping people process grief, loss, and life transitions. I work with identity issues and LGBTQIA+ community as well.
Amanda Morales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
My approach combines EFT and the Gottman Method, focusing on emotional engagement, and understanding.
In my practice, I specialize in assisting couples navigating the emotional complexities of intimate relationships. These experiences, unique in their impact and intensity, require a sensitive and nuanced approach. Utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and the Gottman Method, I strive to create a supportive space where couples can explore their feelings, strengthen their connection, and develop resilience. These evidence-based methods not only help in understanding and processing emotions but also in building a deeper, more meaningful bond, paving the way for healing and growth.
My approach combines EFT and the Gottman Method, focusing on emotional engagement, and understanding.
In my practice, I specialize in assisting couples navigating the emotional complexities of intimate relationships. These experiences, unique in their impact and intensity, require a sensitive and nuanced approach. Utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and the Gottman Method, I strive to create a supportive space where couples can explore their feelings, strengthen their connection, and develop resilience. These evidence-based methods not only help in understanding and processing emotions but also in building a deeper, more meaningful bond, paving the way for healing and growth.
Savanah Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037 (Online Only)
Through EMDR & Emotionally Focused Therapy, I guide clients in understanding their attachment styles and how they influence relationships.
I thrive working with clients who are ready to dive deep into the challenging internal work. I believe the most important relationship is the one you have with yourself, and I connect best with those who embrace this mindset. My ideal clients take ownership of their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts, and are willing to be vulnerable both with themselves and in our sessions. They are committed to personal growth, understanding that real change comes from within.
Through EMDR & Emotionally Focused Therapy, I guide clients in understanding their attachment styles and how they influence relationships.
I thrive working with clients who are ready to dive deep into the challenging internal work. I believe the most important relationship is the one you have with yourself, and I connect best with those who embrace this mindset. My ideal clients take ownership of their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts, and are willing to be vulnerable both with themselves and in our sessions. They are committed to personal growth, understanding that real change comes from within.
See more therapy options for La Jolla
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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.