Emotionally Focused Therapists in Malibu, CA

Photo of Marina Edelman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marina Edelman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90264
I have helped numerous couples, individuals & families find happiness, harmony, and coping strategies to life challenges. I use John Gottman's (research based) approach and EFT to help couples understand their strengths & areas that need improvement. By taking an online assessment couples save time & money & I can quickly assess areas of focus & recomend interventions. To help clients with anxiety/depression I challenge distorted beliefs and maladaptive behaviors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This approach along with other interventions encourages clients to go out of their comfort zone & reduce problamatic symptoms.
I have helped numerous couples, individuals & families find happiness, harmony, and coping strategies to life challenges. I use John Gottman's (research based) approach and EFT to help couples understand their strengths & areas that need improvement. By taking an online assessment couples save time & money & I can quickly assess areas of focus & recomend interventions. To help clients with anxiety/depression I challenge distorted beliefs and maladaptive behaviors using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. This approach along with other interventions encourages clients to go out of their comfort zone & reduce problamatic symptoms.
(818) 253-9910 View (818) 253-9910
Photo of Jennifer Vigil, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Vigil
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90263
As someone who can understand the hardships of life, I hope to provide support for those who experience relationships struggles, familial tension, or support anyone’s individual growth to find empowerment, ease, and stability. I work from a trauma informed, attachment lens, and use Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Processing (AEDP), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) as foundations for therapy, yet adapt from person to person and honor you as an individual. Something I am dedicated to providing is affordable and accessible support to those struggling with the current financial climate.
As someone who can understand the hardships of life, I hope to provide support for those who experience relationships struggles, familial tension, or support anyone’s individual growth to find empowerment, ease, and stability. I work from a trauma informed, attachment lens, and use Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Processing (AEDP), Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) as foundations for therapy, yet adapt from person to person and honor you as an individual. Something I am dedicated to providing is affordable and accessible support to those struggling with the current financial climate.
(858) 585-7787 View (858) 585-7787
Photo of Felicia Lepetri, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicia Lepetri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90263
I appreciate the uniqueness of everyone's story, which is why I utilize a combination of modalities, from trauma work, CBT, ACT, EFT and Attachment-Based therapy.
Life transitions and change often bring up feelings of uncertainty and worry. Although, these transitions are often expected or even decided by us, it can cause an overwhelming sense of doubt and sometimes feelings of grief. I work with clients who are experiencing challenges with life transitions, like motherhood, coming in or out of a relationship, and grief and loss. My approach is to make meaning of your losses and transitions, support you through your experience and identify strategies to help you feel grounded, connected and seen.
I appreciate the uniqueness of everyone's story, which is why I utilize a combination of modalities, from trauma work, CBT, ACT, EFT and Attachment-Based therapy.
Life transitions and change often bring up feelings of uncertainty and worry. Although, these transitions are often expected or even decided by us, it can cause an overwhelming sense of doubt and sometimes feelings of grief. I work with clients who are experiencing challenges with life transitions, like motherhood, coming in or out of a relationship, and grief and loss. My approach is to make meaning of your losses and transitions, support you through your experience and identify strategies to help you feel grounded, connected and seen.
(310) 893-6819 View (310) 893-6819
Photo of Randa El Jurdi - Couples Emdr Trauma Therapist, BSN, MEd, MA, MFT/PCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Randa El Jurdi - Couples Emdr Trauma Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BSN, MEd, MA, MFT/PCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
I meet my clients where they are and employ a variety of approaches and techniques, including person-centered, cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotionally focused couples therapy, Gottman couples therapy, experiential, motivational interviewing, and strength-based.
As a psychotherapist who works with couples utilizing the Gottman method and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), I am dedicated to helping couples build and maintain strong, healthy relationships that contribute to their overall well-being and happiness. I recognize the individuality of each couple, taking into account their unique dynamics, communication styles, and challenges. My therapeutic approach is customized to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where couples can openly communicate, resolve conflicts, and enhance their emotional connection.
I meet my clients where they are and employ a variety of approaches and techniques, including person-centered, cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotionally focused couples therapy, Gottman couples therapy, experiential, motivational interviewing, and strength-based.
As a psychotherapist who works with couples utilizing the Gottman method and Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), I am dedicated to helping couples build and maintain strong, healthy relationships that contribute to their overall well-being and happiness. I recognize the individuality of each couple, taking into account their unique dynamics, communication styles, and challenges. My therapeutic approach is customized to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where couples can openly communicate, resolve conflicts, and enhance their emotional connection.
(424) 531-7680 View (424) 531-7680
Photo of Molly Brumagin Vincent, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Brumagin Vincent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90264  (Online Only)
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California with ten years of experience working with children, families, teens and individuals experiencing a variety of life’s challenges and mental health issues. Some of my specialities include life transitions, anxiety, depression, issues related to self-esteem, relationship issues, family issues, parenting issues & children with developmental delays. My counseling style is warm, empathetic and interactive. My approach is strength based and combines cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and solution-focused counseling.
I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in California with ten years of experience working with children, families, teens and individuals experiencing a variety of life’s challenges and mental health issues. Some of my specialities include life transitions, anxiety, depression, issues related to self-esteem, relationship issues, family issues, parenting issues & children with developmental delays. My counseling style is warm, empathetic and interactive. My approach is strength based and combines cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness and solution-focused counseling.
(424) 363-0939 View (424) 363-0939
Photo of Melanie A. Argo, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist
Melanie A. Argo
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
Seeking psychotherapy can be an exciting yet intimidating step to take in your life. It is difficult to know what to expect from the experience, from your therapist, or from yourself. Acknowledging these uncertainties and the often complex nature of psychotherapy, I approach the process with warmth, empathy, and professionalism. At this time, my practice is full; however, I am accepting intakes for a holistic women's ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP) group. The group is offered monthly in Malibu (about a 15 minute drive from Santa Monica). Participants can join as often as desired.
Seeking psychotherapy can be an exciting yet intimidating step to take in your life. It is difficult to know what to expect from the experience, from your therapist, or from yourself. Acknowledging these uncertainties and the often complex nature of psychotherapy, I approach the process with warmth, empathy, and professionalism. At this time, my practice is full; however, I am accepting intakes for a holistic women's ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP) group. The group is offered monthly in Malibu (about a 15 minute drive from Santa Monica). Participants can join as often as desired.
(424) 622-5676 View (424) 622-5676
Photo of Amaris T Baker, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amaris T Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
In this day and age it can be very difficult to just exist. The world appears to be evolving faster each day which can make it extremely difficult to be grounded with oneself. At times, one could feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed because the amount one has to manage on their own. Finding peace in a world that is unpredictable and scary can appear unattainable. I write this because I live in this world as well. I view therapy as a means to finding the tools and skills to cope with trauma, addiction, work, relationship distress, and/or family dynamics to ultimately find empowerment in oneself.
In this day and age it can be very difficult to just exist. The world appears to be evolving faster each day which can make it extremely difficult to be grounded with oneself. At times, one could feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed because the amount one has to manage on their own. Finding peace in a world that is unpredictable and scary can appear unattainable. I write this because I live in this world as well. I view therapy as a means to finding the tools and skills to cope with trauma, addiction, work, relationship distress, and/or family dynamics to ultimately find empowerment in oneself.
(310) 861-7913 View (310) 861-7913
Photo of Chelsea Autumn Knudson - Chelsea Autumn, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Chelsea Autumn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I provide counseling in an idyllic and healing environment.  My speciality is nature therapy, however, I also have an office if you prefer that setting. It is entirely up to you and your needs. We will collaborate together as I believe you intuitively know what is best for you. I am here to be your co-pilot and assist you while you process your thoughts and feelings in order to align with your higher self.  I have over fifteen years of experience working with children, individuals and couples. I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
I provide counseling in an idyllic and healing environment.  My speciality is nature therapy, however, I also have an office if you prefer that setting. It is entirely up to you and your needs. We will collaborate together as I believe you intuitively know what is best for you. I am here to be your co-pilot and assist you while you process your thoughts and feelings in order to align with your higher self.  I have over fifteen years of experience working with children, individuals and couples. I look forward to hearing from you and assisting you on your journey of healing and self-discovery.
(747) 281-3947 View (747) 281-3947
Photo of Liza Auciello, PsyD, Psychologist
Liza Auciello
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
Are you living the life you want? Do your habitual patterns get in the way of you being present in life and relationships? I’ve dedicated my life to helping people find more fulfilment and meaning in their connections with others and in life itself. If you need a life reboot, I can help you to identify the hidden commitments you have with yourself and overcome the blocks that get in the way of you achieving your life priorities. Our work together can help you to heal and nurture your relationship with your body, mind and spirit so you can address challenges more easily and live your life with greater self-confidence and self-love.
Are you living the life you want? Do your habitual patterns get in the way of you being present in life and relationships? I’ve dedicated my life to helping people find more fulfilment and meaning in their connections with others and in life itself. If you need a life reboot, I can help you to identify the hidden commitments you have with yourself and overcome the blocks that get in the way of you achieving your life priorities. Our work together can help you to heal and nurture your relationship with your body, mind and spirit so you can address challenges more easily and live your life with greater self-confidence and self-love.
(747) 245-3572 View (747) 245-3572
Photo of Marni Kamins, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marni Kamins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Are you sick of self-sabotage? Do you want more confidence only to find that you are your own worst critic? Is your relationship with yourself frustrating you? I provide a safe, warm space for you to build self-esteem, and become un-stuck. I am passionate and committed to supporting you to achieve greater self-awareness, self-confidence and happiness in life. "Disordered" eating, Quarter-life-crisis, social anxiety, creative-blocks, Relational Trauma, depression, fear and anxiety are my specialties. I am also a fully licensed MFT in the great state of Texas!
Are you sick of self-sabotage? Do you want more confidence only to find that you are your own worst critic? Is your relationship with yourself frustrating you? I provide a safe, warm space for you to build self-esteem, and become un-stuck. I am passionate and committed to supporting you to achieve greater self-awareness, self-confidence and happiness in life. "Disordered" eating, Quarter-life-crisis, social anxiety, creative-blocks, Relational Trauma, depression, fear and anxiety are my specialties. I am also a fully licensed MFT in the great state of Texas!
(424) 327-9175 View (424) 327-9175
Photo of Hannah M Rodriguez, MA, LPCC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Hannah M Rodriguez
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Stress/anxiety/depression has been rising rapidly. Transitions are hard, and our nervous systems are exhausted. Hannah gets that. As a Licensed Psychotherapist and Nationally Certified Counselor, Hannah incorporates her mental health degree with Yoga to implement healing on all levels. She also teaches breathwork and meditation to help her clients experience the amazing benefits of being mindful of their breath and the present moment. Hannah is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Yoga Teacher, Reiki Energy Worker, and a certified NeuroEmotional Technique practitioner. She is vegan and loves spending time in the sun and sand.
Stress/anxiety/depression has been rising rapidly. Transitions are hard, and our nervous systems are exhausted. Hannah gets that. As a Licensed Psychotherapist and Nationally Certified Counselor, Hannah incorporates her mental health degree with Yoga to implement healing on all levels. She also teaches breathwork and meditation to help her clients experience the amazing benefits of being mindful of their breath and the present moment. Hannah is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Yoga Teacher, Reiki Energy Worker, and a certified NeuroEmotional Technique practitioner. She is vegan and loves spending time in the sun and sand.
(424) 304-1711 View (424) 304-1711
Photo of David E Bresler, PhD, LAC, DiplAc, NCCAOM, AAPM, Psychologist
David E Bresler
Psychologist, PhD, LAC, DiplAc, NCCAOM, AAPM
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
(562) 250-5763 x1 View (562) 250-5763 x1
Photo of Nargess Fassih - Nargess Fassih - Soul Strategy Therapy          , MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nargess Fassih - Soul Strategy Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
On the surface, life seems to be going smoothly. On the inside, it's a different story. Anxiety, depression, and stress quietly chip away at your well-being and relationships. What once proved effective might now fall short as circumstances shift, and your life and goals evolve. Perhaps you're mid-career, grappling with the elusive balance between personal and professional life. Maybe you've ticked off the milestones on your "roadmap to success" yet yearn for more depth and meaning. If this narrative resonates with you, and you're here in search of a solution, welcome and congratulations on taking this pivotal first step!
On the surface, life seems to be going smoothly. On the inside, it's a different story. Anxiety, depression, and stress quietly chip away at your well-being and relationships. What once proved effective might now fall short as circumstances shift, and your life and goals evolve. Perhaps you're mid-career, grappling with the elusive balance between personal and professional life. Maybe you've ticked off the milestones on your "roadmap to success" yet yearn for more depth and meaning. If this narrative resonates with you, and you're here in search of a solution, welcome and congratulations on taking this pivotal first step!
(424) 688-6044 View (424) 688-6044
Photo of Carla Santulli Elkins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carla Santulli Elkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
Are you concerned about your child's developmental progress? Is your child having difficulty making friends or socializing? Is your child experiencing anxiety or fears? Is your family exhausted by the emotional impact of having a child with special needs? For the past 25 years I have worked with children and families in private practice, in school or at home. I specialize in helping families with children who have neurodevelopment disorders, behavior issues and children with anxiety.
Are you concerned about your child's developmental progress? Is your child having difficulty making friends or socializing? Is your child experiencing anxiety or fears? Is your family exhausted by the emotional impact of having a child with special needs? For the past 25 years I have worked with children and families in private practice, in school or at home. I specialize in helping families with children who have neurodevelopment disorders, behavior issues and children with anxiety.
(310) 312-8604 View (310) 312-8604
Photo of Erica Ives - Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS, MA, MFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
(818) 639-4273 View (818) 639-4273
Photo of Sonia Greaven, PhD, Psychologist
Sonia Greaven
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
If you're a high-achieving individual with frequent or intense anxiety, you may feel discouraged and frustrated by your symptoms. Constant worry, obsessions, disrupted sleep and sudden anxiety attacks can be debilitating, even for the most competent person. I work with successful professionals, including physicians, attorneys, executives, creatives and entertainers, and their family members; I know it can be hard to seek help when you are used to solving your own problems. However, anxiety symptoms are very treatable when you work with a professional who offers the most effective approach.
If you're a high-achieving individual with frequent or intense anxiety, you may feel discouraged and frustrated by your symptoms. Constant worry, obsessions, disrupted sleep and sudden anxiety attacks can be debilitating, even for the most competent person. I work with successful professionals, including physicians, attorneys, executives, creatives and entertainers, and their family members; I know it can be hard to seek help when you are used to solving your own problems. However, anxiety symptoms are very treatable when you work with a professional who offers the most effective approach.
(818) 797-4653 View (818) 797-4653
Photo of Dianne Porchia, MA, DMBM
Dianne Porchia
MA, DMBM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
Dianne Porchia is featured in HEAL Documentary film for her successful healing work with advance stage cancer client who remains cancer free over 5 years after diagnosis with stage IV colorectal cancer. Porchia's unique holistic approach to healing integrates the principles and practice of mind-body-heart-soul energy medicine, epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology and heart-centered communication skills to reduce mental-emotional stress, support immune function and create and maintain successful and loving relationships through high stress life challenges such as divorce, death, loss of job, serious illness, disease and cancer.
(310) 627-2585 View (310) 627-2585
Photo of Laura LaPiana - Dr. Laura LaPiana, PsyD, A Professional Corp, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Laura LaPiana, PsyD, A Professional Corp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been providing psychotherapy services to adults, families, couples and adolescents for more than 25-years. I work with patients to identify their own personal goals and relationship needs in an effort to improve well-being and increase feelings of satisfaction and authenticity. Life transitions as well as difficulty in important relationships often drives people to seek help. Beginning psychotherapy is an important step in building skills to manage life challenges and stressors. Improvements in self-care can have dramatic benefits on emotional and physical health.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice and have been providing psychotherapy services to adults, families, couples and adolescents for more than 25-years. I work with patients to identify their own personal goals and relationship needs in an effort to improve well-being and increase feelings of satisfaction and authenticity. Life transitions as well as difficulty in important relationships often drives people to seek help. Beginning psychotherapy is an important step in building skills to manage life challenges and stressors. Improvements in self-care can have dramatic benefits on emotional and physical health.
(424) 329-1123 View (424) 329-1123
Photo of April Sherman - April Sherman, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Sherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90263
Accepting new clients ! online therapy offered. Are you struggling with anxiety with this uncertainty about how to manage in this time of chaos. Are you busy taking care of everyone else and noticing you have nobody taking care of you? Reach out to me and I can meet with you during this chaotic time to focus inward on tools to self soothe, cope better so you can get sleep and protect your immune system and cope better with life. I am able to help in a space for you so you can reduce your fears and rise above any unhelpful and unsettled emotions. We can find ways to do things that support your daily growth.
Accepting new clients ! online therapy offered. Are you struggling with anxiety with this uncertainty about how to manage in this time of chaos. Are you busy taking care of everyone else and noticing you have nobody taking care of you? Reach out to me and I can meet with you during this chaotic time to focus inward on tools to self soothe, cope better so you can get sleep and protect your immune system and cope better with life. I am able to help in a space for you so you can reduce your fears and rise above any unhelpful and unsettled emotions. We can find ways to do things that support your daily growth.
(818) 293-5857 View (818) 293-5857
Photo of Michele Ryan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele Ryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Michele Ryan. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who loves working with individuals, families and couples who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life. Sometimes it can be very difficult to get relief from emotional problems on our own. Too often, when we feel discouraged, angry, stressed out and overwhelmed and we can turn to unhealthy coping skills. I have worked with clients struggling with chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, multiple anxiety disorders, PTSD and ongoing difficulties due to past traumatic experiences and life stressors.
Hello, my name is Michele Ryan. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who loves working with individuals, families and couples who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life. Sometimes it can be very difficult to get relief from emotional problems on our own. Too often, when we feel discouraged, angry, stressed out and overwhelmed and we can turn to unhealthy coping skills. I have worked with clients struggling with chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, multiple anxiety disorders, PTSD and ongoing difficulties due to past traumatic experiences and life stressors.
(747) 294-3646 View (747) 294-3646
1
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.