Emotionally Focused Therapists in Lake Balboa, CA

Photo of Reena Becerra - Bee Well Psychological Services, PhD, Psychologist
Bee Well Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406  (Online Only)
It has been so hard. Perhaps you are living with a secret you feel like you cannot share with anyone. It may have started long ago, when you were a child. Maybe you feel shame, and you blame yourself for what happened to you. If only it made sense. Wouldn't it be so nice to leave the guilt aside and feel safe again? Wouldn't it be so liberating to be free of this pain? It can feel so isolating but please know.. you are not alone. I want to help you connect with the hurt inside of you, nurture the child who needed love the most. It is possible to nurture that child, even now. I want to help the release all that is holding you back.
It has been so hard. Perhaps you are living with a secret you feel like you cannot share with anyone. It may have started long ago, when you were a child. Maybe you feel shame, and you blame yourself for what happened to you. If only it made sense. Wouldn't it be so nice to leave the guilt aside and feel safe again? Wouldn't it be so liberating to be free of this pain? It can feel so isolating but please know.. you are not alone. I want to help you connect with the hurt inside of you, nurture the child who needed love the most. It is possible to nurture that child, even now. I want to help the release all that is holding you back.
(818) 960-7839 View (818) 960-7839
Photo of Bianca DeGroat, BA, CHT, ARTT, CMS
Bianca DeGroat
BA, CHT, ARTT, CMS
Verified Verified
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
I help people of all ages feel more optimistic and enthusiastic about life, without medication. I specialize in the release of depression, anxiety, negativity, jealousy, lack of motivation, weight issues, perfectionism, anger problems and anything that is a result of low self-esteem. If you would like to move through the world with more confidence and ease, you must be willing to see yourself in a different way, and with Rapid Transformational Therapy and hypnotherapy, I can help you achieve that. As human beings, we can get stuck in a pattern of negative thinking and that only keeps us from getting what we want. So, I work with the subconscious mind to change the neural pathways in your brain so that a new way of thinking can change your trajectory in this life, getting you out of your own way and giving you a fresh perspective.
I help people of all ages feel more optimistic and enthusiastic about life, without medication. I specialize in the release of depression, anxiety, negativity, jealousy, lack of motivation, weight issues, perfectionism, anger problems and anything that is a result of low self-esteem. If you would like to move through the world with more confidence and ease, you must be willing to see yourself in a different way, and with Rapid Transformational Therapy and hypnotherapy, I can help you achieve that. As human beings, we can get stuck in a pattern of negative thinking and that only keeps us from getting what we want. So, I work with the subconscious mind to change the neural pathways in your brain so that a new way of thinking can change your trajectory in this life, getting you out of your own way and giving you a fresh perspective.
(323) 746-1051 View (323) 746-1051
Photo of Guadalupe Avitia, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Guadalupe Avitia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, know that you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and respected. Together, we can explore your experiences, unravel the complexities of your emotions, and work towards the goals that matter most to you. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to heal from trauma, my approach is tailored to meet you where you are.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, know that you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, safe space where your thoughts and feelings are welcomed and respected. Together, we can explore your experiences, unravel the complexities of your emotions, and work towards the goals that matter most to you. Whether you're navigating relationship issues, grappling with anxiety or depression, or seeking to heal from trauma, my approach is tailored to meet you where you are.
(323) 968-6796 View (323) 968-6796
Photo of Danielle Cutler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Cutler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lake Balboa, CA 91406
Not accepting new clients
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified ADHD Professional. I work through a depth-psychology lens to pinpoint and heal developmental and trauma wounds by identifying unconscious/subconscious thoughts that create the symptoms that lead you to therapy. Meanwhile, I simultaneously provide knowledge and tools to empower and guide you to discovery of your true Self. During the pandemic I experienced and then trained in brainspotting, which I use in person, online, and over the phone to nuke the source of stubborn symptoms that have not responded to traditional talk therapy.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and a Certified ADHD Professional. I work through a depth-psychology lens to pinpoint and heal developmental and trauma wounds by identifying unconscious/subconscious thoughts that create the symptoms that lead you to therapy. Meanwhile, I simultaneously provide knowledge and tools to empower and guide you to discovery of your true Self. During the pandemic I experienced and then trained in brainspotting, which I use in person, online, and over the phone to nuke the source of stubborn symptoms that have not responded to traditional talk therapy.
(818) 369-3078 View (818) 369-3078

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Chance, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Chance
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Hills, CA 91343
My name is Sarah Chance and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Monterey, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and relationships, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I generally treat clients seeking to create change in their lives.
My name is Sarah Chance and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Monterey, California, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and relationships, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I generally treat clients seeking to create change in their lives.
(818) 858-1349 View (818) 858-1349
Photo of Barbara Benoualid, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Benoualid
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
For couples I am trained in Gottman, EFT, and attachment theory.
I speak French and English. I am caring and want you to feel comfortable exploring and uncovering the patterns that are hindering your life or keeping you feeling stuck. Together we can make sense of your patterns, as we explore your past and present- revealing your strengths and your pain. You'll learn new tools that will help you move forward differently. Your treatment will be tailored to meet your unique personality & goals. You don't need to be alone with your thoughts, feelings, pain, sadness or confusion. Let's talk.
For couples I am trained in Gottman, EFT, and attachment theory.
I speak French and English. I am caring and want you to feel comfortable exploring and uncovering the patterns that are hindering your life or keeping you feeling stuck. Together we can make sense of your patterns, as we explore your past and present- revealing your strengths and your pain. You'll learn new tools that will help you move forward differently. Your treatment will be tailored to meet your unique personality & goals. You don't need to be alone with your thoughts, feelings, pain, sadness or confusion. Let's talk.
(323) 472-5920 View (323) 472-5920
Photo of Alexa Enyart, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method to resolve interpersonal conflicts, untangle the root of distressing emotions, and develop healthy communication patterns and boundaries.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Method to resolve interpersonal conflicts, untangle the root of distressing emotions, and develop healthy communication patterns and boundaries.
Do you feel as though your anxiety and depression are unmanageable? How about feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or helplessness like you’ve hit rock bottom and are struggling to find hope for tomorrow? Once we start to unravel the details of our past and trauma we give ourselves the ability to process feelings that we have long suppressed. I aim to collaborate with you and provide tools to decrease the challenging feelings you are currently facing and achieve a more integrated and balanced sense of self, leading to emotional healing and personal growth.
(323) 396-9818 View (323) 396-9818
Photo of Emily Shefer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Shefer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
Drawing on my training in Psychodynamic Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy, I work with individuals and couples to help them understand how early experiences have shaped them, and use this insight to break out of cycles that aren't serving them.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of anxiety, attachment trauma, or relationship distress, it can be hard to imagine getting out from under the pain. Through reflection, exploration, and the building of trust, therapy is a space for you to learn how to thrive.
Drawing on my training in Psychodynamic Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy, I work with individuals and couples to help them understand how early experiences have shaped them, and use this insight to break out of cycles that aren't serving them.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of anxiety, attachment trauma, or relationship distress, it can be hard to imagine getting out from under the pain. Through reflection, exploration, and the building of trust, therapy is a space for you to learn how to thrive.
(661) 443-5415 View (661) 443-5415
Photo of Dawn McNairy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn McNairy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91316
I have a direct, non-judgemental style that incorporates several treatment strategies and interventions, including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
As a therapist, I understand that working through emotions as an individual or in a relationship can be difficult. My job is to guide and support my clients and allow them to discover, excavate & process their feelings. Self awarness is an incredible skill that I enjoy helping clients develop as they engage in the most important relationship - the one they have with themselves.
I have a direct, non-judgemental style that incorporates several treatment strategies and interventions, including but not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered, Solution Focused and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
As a therapist, I understand that working through emotions as an individual or in a relationship can be difficult. My job is to guide and support my clients and allow them to discover, excavate & process their feelings. Self awarness is an incredible skill that I enjoy helping clients develop as they engage in the most important relationship - the one they have with themselves.
(818) 463-2586 View (818) 463-2586
Photo of Michael Azad Moradian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Azad Moradian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 91335  (Online Only)
I utilize diverse methods: CBT, DBT, EFT, Family Systems, Gottman, Group Therapy, Multicultural, Trauma Focused, Narrative, and more.
Hi there, I'm Michael! A licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. I specialize in various areas, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, ASD, Grief, and high-conflict divorce. I also support individuals with Intellectual & developmental disabilities and their families. As an immigrant, I understand the unique challenges immigrants face and provide therapy in English, Kurdish, and Farsi, with knowledge of other languages and cultures. My collaborative approach focuses on personalized treatment plans and promotes personal growth through deep listening. Let's work together for a happier, healthier you.
I utilize diverse methods: CBT, DBT, EFT, Family Systems, Gottman, Group Therapy, Multicultural, Trauma Focused, Narrative, and more.
Hi there, I'm Michael! A licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. I specialize in various areas, including Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, ADHD, ASD, Grief, and high-conflict divorce. I also support individuals with Intellectual & developmental disabilities and their families. As an immigrant, I understand the unique challenges immigrants face and provide therapy in English, Kurdish, and Farsi, with knowledge of other languages and cultures. My collaborative approach focuses on personalized treatment plans and promotes personal growth through deep listening. Let's work together for a happier, healthier you.
(747) 281-3475 View (747) 281-3475
Photo of Bailey Franklin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bailey Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
My training includes AEDP (Level 2), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) for clients who want to explore their substance use.
I believe that deep down our thoughts and feelings make sense. And that while life can sometimes feel overwhelming, real change is possible. My therapeutic process integrates strength-based modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each client and centers on identifying our untapped sources of strength and resilience to break through doubt, shame and fear. With care and curiosity, we will begin the process of exploring and healing the often hidden wounds inflicted by our experiences, families and society. Working together, we can change old patterns of feeling and thinking in order to empower your authentic, evolving self.
My training includes AEDP (Level 2), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) for clients who want to explore their substance use.
I believe that deep down our thoughts and feelings make sense. And that while life can sometimes feel overwhelming, real change is possible. My therapeutic process integrates strength-based modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each client and centers on identifying our untapped sources of strength and resilience to break through doubt, shame and fear. With care and curiosity, we will begin the process of exploring and healing the often hidden wounds inflicted by our experiences, families and society. Working together, we can change old patterns of feeling and thinking in order to empower your authentic, evolving self.
(818) 918-2320 View (818) 918-2320
Photo of Alexandra Park, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexandra Park
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are you experiencing relationship issues with your partner or family members? I’m passionate about helping people have healthier relationships within themselves and with others. I work with couples and families who are stuck in conflict, seeking better communication, healing from past wounds, bridging cultural gaps, or adjusting to life transitions. I also provide individual therapy to support those affected by relational issues. We can work on managing anxiety, processing trauma, overcoming people-pleasing habits, improving emotional regulation, working through codependency, and embarking on a journey of healing and well-being.
I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are you experiencing relationship issues with your partner or family members? I’m passionate about helping people have healthier relationships within themselves and with others. I work with couples and families who are stuck in conflict, seeking better communication, healing from past wounds, bridging cultural gaps, or adjusting to life transitions. I also provide individual therapy to support those affected by relational issues. We can work on managing anxiety, processing trauma, overcoming people-pleasing habits, improving emotional regulation, working through codependency, and embarking on a journey of healing and well-being.
(323) 677-2998 View (323) 677-2998
Photo of Melissa Pottash, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Pottash
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91316  (Online Only)
I draw from Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
We all need a supportive and safe person to talk to, both when things are going well, and when life feels challenging. A therapist can help guide and support you through life's ups and downs. I specialize in college mental health, and enjoy helping young adults navigate life transitions. I also have experience working with survivors of trauma, and am particularly passionate about helping people work through developmental and childhood trauma.
I draw from Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
We all need a supportive and safe person to talk to, both when things are going well, and when life feels challenging. A therapist can help guide and support you through life's ups and downs. I specialize in college mental health, and enjoy helping young adults navigate life transitions. I also have experience working with survivors of trauma, and am particularly passionate about helping people work through developmental and childhood trauma.
(310) 706-2996 View (310) 706-2996
Photo of Lindsay Burke, MS, LMFT, BI, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsay Burke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, BI
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Hi! I’m Lindsay and I’m the founder of LIFT Therapy, a licensed therapist, coach, a martial artist, wife, and parent. I help individuals with their most intimate relationships- with partners, family members and close friends. I also support those in tricky dynamics with narcissistic, exploitive and manipulative personalities. In my experience working with deeply traumatized and emotionally disturbed adults and children, I found my passion for addressing generational trauma by helping adults heal early childhood trauma and by teaching a new generation of parents how to raise children using an attachment-based lens.
Hi! I’m Lindsay and I’m the founder of LIFT Therapy, a licensed therapist, coach, a martial artist, wife, and parent. I help individuals with their most intimate relationships- with partners, family members and close friends. I also support those in tricky dynamics with narcissistic, exploitive and manipulative personalities. In my experience working with deeply traumatized and emotionally disturbed adults and children, I found my passion for addressing generational trauma by helping adults heal early childhood trauma and by teaching a new generation of parents how to raise children using an attachment-based lens.
(323) 870-9342 View (323) 870-9342
Photo of Adria Scovel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adria Scovel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91426
The current unprecedented state of our world has presented many challenges and taken a toll on mental health and wellness, triggering the body's stress response, de-activating the immune system, and putting our mind/body in survival mode. This has the propensity to escalate anxiety, depression, addiction, and disease and reactivates outdated coping skills and keeps our body in fight or flight. Let's work together to create a strong support system to manage and navigate the stress and uncertainty and minimize the toll on our mental health, physical health, and relationships, and empower ourselves for the future.
The current unprecedented state of our world has presented many challenges and taken a toll on mental health and wellness, triggering the body's stress response, de-activating the immune system, and putting our mind/body in survival mode. This has the propensity to escalate anxiety, depression, addiction, and disease and reactivates outdated coping skills and keeps our body in fight or flight. Let's work together to create a strong support system to manage and navigate the stress and uncertainty and minimize the toll on our mental health, physical health, and relationships, and empower ourselves for the future.
(747) 203-0951 View (747) 203-0951
Photo of Rosemary Botch, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rosemary Botch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436  (Online Only)
I am here to help explore, create and work towards your goals. I like to be up front that therapists do not have magical wands. I center around your strengths and help empower you to focus on the positives that you already have. This is a safe place to work through pain, emotions and anger management. We can work on skills together to strengthen relationships and build confidence.
I am here to help explore, create and work towards your goals. I like to be up front that therapists do not have magical wands. I center around your strengths and help empower you to focus on the positives that you already have. This is a safe place to work through pain, emotions and anger management. We can work on skills together to strengthen relationships and build confidence.
(747) 349-4022 x2 View (747) 349-4022 x2
Photo of May Meirav Aviram, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
May Meirav Aviram
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Encino, CA 91436
Life is full of challenges. We all face hard times, stress and struggles at some point during our lives. Unfortunately, we cannot change the past, but we can change our thoughts and feelings about what has happened to us and choose how to deal with it and the effect it will have on us in the future. I specialize in working with teens, adults, families and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, relationship problems and life transitions (marriage, divorce, becoming a parent, moving, becoming empty nesters, grief and loss, etc.).
Life is full of challenges. We all face hard times, stress and struggles at some point during our lives. Unfortunately, we cannot change the past, but we can change our thoughts and feelings about what has happened to us and choose how to deal with it and the effect it will have on us in the future. I specialize in working with teens, adults, families and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, relationship problems and life transitions (marriage, divorce, becoming a parent, moving, becoming empty nesters, grief and loss, etc.).
(818) 593-0036 View (818) 593-0036
Photo of Patricia Frances James, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Patricia Frances James
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Encino, CA 91436
Let's work together to learn who you are now so you can make thoughtful choices moving toward who you want to be. Overwhelming emotions can derail your best intentions and interfere with your goals, dreams, and connections with others. Adding to the mix are invalidating or problematic environments that make us feel devalued or ashamed. I understand firsthand the unique challenges faced by creative professionals. Asking for help is tough; building a healthier, more compassionate relationship with yourself, others, and your nervous system can be even tougher without support.
Let's work together to learn who you are now so you can make thoughtful choices moving toward who you want to be. Overwhelming emotions can derail your best intentions and interfere with your goals, dreams, and connections with others. Adding to the mix are invalidating or problematic environments that make us feel devalued or ashamed. I understand firsthand the unique challenges faced by creative professionals. Asking for help is tough; building a healthier, more compassionate relationship with yourself, others, and your nervous system can be even tougher without support.
(747) 302-4256 View (747) 302-4256
Photo of Veronica Miele, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Miele
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91316
Life is unpredictable & can be challenging at times, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you are struggling to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, fear, or acceptance, these emotions can directly impact all areas of your life. Do you what to enhance your family, personal or professional relationships? Decrease stress, or guilt? Increase peace of mind, personal growth, & become your best self? We all go through tough times in our lives when we feel like something is too difficult to manage or feel like we'll never overcome what’s getting in the way of enjoying life. You're not alone & things can improve.
Life is unpredictable & can be challenging at times, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you are struggling to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, fear, or acceptance, these emotions can directly impact all areas of your life. Do you what to enhance your family, personal or professional relationships? Decrease stress, or guilt? Increase peace of mind, personal growth, & become your best self? We all go through tough times in our lives when we feel like something is too difficult to manage or feel like we'll never overcome what’s getting in the way of enjoying life. You're not alone & things can improve.
(747) 529-7980 View (747) 529-7980
Photo of Mojdeh Yahyaabadi Hormozian, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Mojdeh Yahyaabadi Hormozian
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91403
I am a registered Psychological Associate with the California Board of Psychology. I provide a safe and interactive environment for my clients to build connections with them. I also work to establish a caring relationship with my clients so that they will be able to discover their personal strengths. I have trained in several different methods of therapy such as Psychodynamic and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I attended California Southern University for my doctoral training. I am specially trained to treat patients with Substance Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia. I am bilingual and fluent in Farsi.
I am a registered Psychological Associate with the California Board of Psychology. I provide a safe and interactive environment for my clients to build connections with them. I also work to establish a caring relationship with my clients so that they will be able to discover their personal strengths. I have trained in several different methods of therapy such as Psychodynamic and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I attended California Southern University for my doctoral training. I am specially trained to treat patients with Substance Use Disorder, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia. I am bilingual and fluent in Farsi.
(747) 323-4882 View (747) 323-4882

See more therapy options for Lake Balboa

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.