Emotionally Focused Therapists in Novato, CA

Photo of Andrew Copperman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Copperman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949
EFT has been shown by the American Psychological Association to be an empirically proven method of couples therapy.
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist for couples. In this therapy we re-frame and restructure the emotional experience you have with your partner. We help you move from conflict and disappointment to intimacy and love. We all want to be seen, heard and understood by our partner; to feel our loved one is accessible, responsive and engaged. This therapy, through experiential work in the sessions, accomplishes amazing shifts in the safety, closeness and love felt with your partner. My approach is highly interactive and experiential.
EFT has been shown by the American Psychological Association to be an empirically proven method of couples therapy.
I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist for couples. In this therapy we re-frame and restructure the emotional experience you have with your partner. We help you move from conflict and disappointment to intimacy and love. We all want to be seen, heard and understood by our partner; to feel our loved one is accessible, responsive and engaged. This therapy, through experiential work in the sessions, accomplishes amazing shifts in the safety, closeness and love felt with your partner. My approach is highly interactive and experiential.
(415) 237-2044 View (415) 237-2044
Photo of Peter J Sadler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peter J Sadler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck in a cycle of arguments and blame in your relationship? Suffering over a painful breakup or the discovery of an affair? Preparing to grow your family or become empty nesters? Are you searching for the closeness and intimacy you once shared with your partner? Together in therapy I can help you traverse these difficult relationship situations, and move toward a more connected and vibrant way of life. My approach to working with couples is guided by years of specialized training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and helping couples shift their patterns of communication and deepen their connection.
Do you feel stuck in a cycle of arguments and blame in your relationship? Suffering over a painful breakup or the discovery of an affair? Preparing to grow your family or become empty nesters? Are you searching for the closeness and intimacy you once shared with your partner? Together in therapy I can help you traverse these difficult relationship situations, and move toward a more connected and vibrant way of life. My approach to working with couples is guided by years of specialized training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and helping couples shift their patterns of communication and deepen their connection.
(415) 226-4116 View (415) 226-4116
Photo of Patricia (Pat) T Hromalik, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia (Pat) T Hromalik
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
I have specialized training including Gottman, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Developmental Model of Couples & Functional Family Therapy.
Are you having struggles in your relationships? Or having trouble coping with stress or changes in your life? Perhaps you have suffered a loss or are struggling to come to terms with a past trauma? I have many years of work and life experience that inform my counseling work, especially in helping people manage conflict, deal with stress effectively, manage life transitions, and work on relationships. I understand the challenges of relationships, family dynamics, parenting, career and job issues, grief and loss, illness, divorce, abuse, trauma, suicide, depression and anxiety and self-esteem.
I have specialized training including Gottman, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Developmental Model of Couples & Functional Family Therapy.
Are you having struggles in your relationships? Or having trouble coping with stress or changes in your life? Perhaps you have suffered a loss or are struggling to come to terms with a past trauma? I have many years of work and life experience that inform my counseling work, especially in helping people manage conflict, deal with stress effectively, manage life transitions, and work on relationships. I understand the challenges of relationships, family dynamics, parenting, career and job issues, grief and loss, illness, divorce, abuse, trauma, suicide, depression and anxiety and self-esteem.
(707) 892-0774 View (707) 892-0774
Photo of Cathy Della Valle, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Della Valle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94949
I pull from Gottman and EFT when working with couples.
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
I pull from Gottman and EFT when working with couples.
I have many years of experience and training and feel fortunate to work with adults, couples and teens. I find that most clients come to me when their old ways of coping are no longer working (or they are unhealthy) and the stress is too much! Why do it alone? I hold the hope for my clients when they aren't able.
(415) 813-5401 View (415) 813-5401
Photo of Toby Ellen French, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Toby Ellen French
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples is transformative.
It is a truly an exciting time to have the privilege of working with people in family therapy. In the last decade, advances made in understanding the connection of mind, body and spirit give us wonderful tools for building satisfying relationships with ourselves and others. During my 25 years in practice, I have learned the importance of listening carefully and responding with compassion I see it as my job to create a safe and respectful relationship with you. From this ground, we work, at your pace, with whatever issues unfold. In our work together, you will increase your awareness and authenticity.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples is transformative.
It is a truly an exciting time to have the privilege of working with people in family therapy. In the last decade, advances made in understanding the connection of mind, body and spirit give us wonderful tools for building satisfying relationships with ourselves and others. During my 25 years in practice, I have learned the importance of listening carefully and responding with compassion I see it as my job to create a safe and respectful relationship with you. From this ground, we work, at your pace, with whatever issues unfold. In our work together, you will increase your awareness and authenticity.
(707) 993-4352 View (707) 993-4352
Photo of Lourdes Vargas-Bogardus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lourdes Vargas-Bogardus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947  (Online Only)
I utilize the Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) approach to Couples' Therapy.
Perhaps you are going through a life transition and need support sorting things out. Maybe you are feeling anxious or depressed and this is bogging you down. Are you having difficulty visualizing a better life for yourself? Is your sense of self worth suffering? Maybe you are experiencing strained relationships with family or friends; or you may have a nagging feeling that major changes are needed. Let's talk; you don't have to go through this alone.
I utilize the Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) approach to Couples' Therapy.
Perhaps you are going through a life transition and need support sorting things out. Maybe you are feeling anxious or depressed and this is bogging you down. Are you having difficulty visualizing a better life for yourself? Is your sense of self worth suffering? Maybe you are experiencing strained relationships with family or friends; or you may have a nagging feeling that major changes are needed. Let's talk; you don't have to go through this alone.
(415) 306-8608 View (415) 306-8608
Photo of Ryan Gertz, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ryan Gertz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
I have an integrative approach of Parts Work, Somatic Focusing, Jungian, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Dream Work, EFT (emotionally focused couples therapy) as well as CBT, coaching, with an emphasis on the whole aliveness of ones life.
I provide support to individuals, couples and children who want a sense of meaning, authenticity and agency in their lives. Challenges I work with are trauma( PTSD & CPTSD), anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity issues, mens issues, ADHD/Autism/neurodivergence, eco-anxiety and psychedelic integration. I help couples recognize repeating patterns, substituting defensiveness with clear vulnerable communication, and strengthen intimacy.
I have an integrative approach of Parts Work, Somatic Focusing, Jungian, Gestalt, Psychodynamic, Dream Work, EFT (emotionally focused couples therapy) as well as CBT, coaching, with an emphasis on the whole aliveness of ones life.
I provide support to individuals, couples and children who want a sense of meaning, authenticity and agency in their lives. Challenges I work with are trauma( PTSD & CPTSD), anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity issues, mens issues, ADHD/Autism/neurodivergence, eco-anxiety and psychedelic integration. I help couples recognize repeating patterns, substituting defensiveness with clear vulnerable communication, and strengthen intimacy.
(341) 444-2650 View (341) 444-2650
Photo of Elisha Ellis Madsen | Board-Certified Music Therapist, MME, MT-BC
Elisha Ellis Madsen | Board-Certified Music Therapist
MME, MT-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety or self-doubt? Do you ever feel like your emotions control you? Constantly worried about the future or stuck in the past? Lost touch with your creative side (or perhaps you were never allowed to explore it in the first place?) You aren’t alone, and I want to help you feel grounded, confident, and more present in your own life. I’m Elisha: I specialize in music therapy for adults who want to ease anxiety, improve self-esteem, and reignite creativity through a holistic lens. My therapeutic approach is authentic, bold, intuitive, and creative. I am committed to anti-oppressive and inclusive practice.
Are you struggling with anxiety or self-doubt? Do you ever feel like your emotions control you? Constantly worried about the future or stuck in the past? Lost touch with your creative side (or perhaps you were never allowed to explore it in the first place?) You aren’t alone, and I want to help you feel grounded, confident, and more present in your own life. I’m Elisha: I specialize in music therapy for adults who want to ease anxiety, improve self-esteem, and reignite creativity through a holistic lens. My therapeutic approach is authentic, bold, intuitive, and creative. I am committed to anti-oppressive and inclusive practice.
(415) 236-5937 View (415) 236-5937
Photo of Sue Kessner, MS, LPCC
Sue Kessner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949  (Online Only)
Welcome to Serenity Psychotherapy. Feeling Stressed? Overwhelmed by Challenges in your Life? Living life on life's terms is not always easy. The stresses of daily living often encroach on our happiness and serenity. Learning to have a solution focused and positive perspective on life's challenges through psychotherapy can change your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance for you or your children, or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life, I can help you to free up your life!
Welcome to Serenity Psychotherapy. Feeling Stressed? Overwhelmed by Challenges in your Life? Living life on life's terms is not always easy. The stresses of daily living often encroach on our happiness and serenity. Learning to have a solution focused and positive perspective on life's challenges through psychotherapy can change your life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance for you or your children, or you're ready to move in a new direction in your life, I can help you to free up your life!
(415) 669-5836 View (415) 669-5836
Photo of Dan O'Donnell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dan O'Donnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949
Problems with your teen or lack of purpose issues? I also work with adults, couples and families. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve current challenges. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, Please call or email me for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today
Problems with your teen or lack of purpose issues? I also work with adults, couples and families. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve current challenges. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, Please call or email me for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today
(707) 595-2303 View (707) 595-2303
Photo of Jenna Lane Marsala, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenna Lane Marsala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
Do you ever ask yourself, "Why do I keep doing the same things but expect different outcomes?" Or "Do I look at the world differently than all my family and friends?" Life can feel stressful, overwhelming, and out of control at times. I try to help life feel a little bit more manageable and work through issues at your own pace. Psychotherapy is about an exploration of self and the world around you. As a psychotherapist, I am here to provide guidance through this exploration in a safe place and to improve interaction with those you love.
Do you ever ask yourself, "Why do I keep doing the same things but expect different outcomes?" Or "Do I look at the world differently than all my family and friends?" Life can feel stressful, overwhelming, and out of control at times. I try to help life feel a little bit more manageable and work through issues at your own pace. Psychotherapy is about an exploration of self and the world around you. As a psychotherapist, I am here to provide guidance through this exploration in a safe place and to improve interaction with those you love.
(925) 261-7827 View (925) 261-7827
Photo of Kaitlyn Lydell - Kaitlyn Lydell, L.M.F.T., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaitlyn Lydell, L.M.F.T.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
Are you hoping someone else will change so that you can feel okay? Are you interacting with someone who is confusing, withdrawn, chemically dependent, angry, has a mood/ behavioral disorder, or is emotionally unavailable? Do you have trouble asserting yourself or setting boundaries? Do you "over-function" with others? Do you feel stressed, anxious or depressed? I specialize in relationships- how you relate with others but also to yourself. I address total emotional and physical health. I have a compassionate, interactive approach to help you focus on changing what you can and coping with what you can't.
Are you hoping someone else will change so that you can feel okay? Are you interacting with someone who is confusing, withdrawn, chemically dependent, angry, has a mood/ behavioral disorder, or is emotionally unavailable? Do you have trouble asserting yourself or setting boundaries? Do you "over-function" with others? Do you feel stressed, anxious or depressed? I specialize in relationships- how you relate with others but also to yourself. I address total emotional and physical health. I have a compassionate, interactive approach to help you focus on changing what you can and coping with what you can't.
(415) 799-8389 View (415) 799-8389
Photo of Allison Prine, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Prine
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
You deserve to experience a life that is authentic, connected, and rich with meaning. It takes courage to rewrite your story from a place of disconnection, struggle, and fear, transforming it into a narrative full of empowerment, growth, and healing. Whether you are struggling with balance and identity in new parenthood, grieving infertility or pregnancy loss, processing your own neurodivergence, parenting a child with complex needs, grappling with the anxiety of being a millennial navigating the impact of life transitions on your relationships, career, and purpose in this overwhelming world, I am here to hold space for you.
You deserve to experience a life that is authentic, connected, and rich with meaning. It takes courage to rewrite your story from a place of disconnection, struggle, and fear, transforming it into a narrative full of empowerment, growth, and healing. Whether you are struggling with balance and identity in new parenthood, grieving infertility or pregnancy loss, processing your own neurodivergence, parenting a child with complex needs, grappling with the anxiety of being a millennial navigating the impact of life transitions on your relationships, career, and purpose in this overwhelming world, I am here to hold space for you.
(415) 965-8631 View (415) 965-8631
Photo of Matthew Engel, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94947  (Online Only)
It's hard to find the right therapist. I get it! My intention is to be as straightforward and compassionate as possible. I work with people from many walks of life. Regardless of culture, economics, gender identity, sexual orientation or vocation, we all seek greater meaning, depth, authenticity & inner peace. I draw from 25+ years of professional experience blending insights and supportive tools from psychology and non-denominational spirituality. Whether you're newer to this process or a "seasoned client," I work best with people who are committed to inner growth. I provide psychotherapy as well as life and business coaching.
It's hard to find the right therapist. I get it! My intention is to be as straightforward and compassionate as possible. I work with people from many walks of life. Regardless of culture, economics, gender identity, sexual orientation or vocation, we all seek greater meaning, depth, authenticity & inner peace. I draw from 25+ years of professional experience blending insights and supportive tools from psychology and non-denominational spirituality. Whether you're newer to this process or a "seasoned client," I work best with people who are committed to inner growth. I provide psychotherapy as well as life and business coaching.
(628) 666-0266 View (628) 666-0266
Photo of Joy A Fillman, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Joy A Fillman
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If life events, relationships, performance, school or job stresses have brought you here, you deserve congratulations for having already done 50% of the work. Your willingness to consult and collaborate with a practiced professional means you have taken an all important first step in developing a lifelong plan toward a sense of well being and vitality. My practice combines a research degree in Developmental Psychology with PhD in Clinical Psychology to identify and disable hidden, often old, myths that have blocked or hindered my clients' access to happy, fulfilled lives at each stage of development. Together we can do it.
If life events, relationships, performance, school or job stresses have brought you here, you deserve congratulations for having already done 50% of the work. Your willingness to consult and collaborate with a practiced professional means you have taken an all important first step in developing a lifelong plan toward a sense of well being and vitality. My practice combines a research degree in Developmental Psychology with PhD in Clinical Psychology to identify and disable hidden, often old, myths that have blocked or hindered my clients' access to happy, fulfilled lives at each stage of development. Together we can do it.
(415) 800-2493 View (415) 800-2493
Photo of Brenda Fishleder, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda Fishleder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94947
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 40 years, and bring an eclectic blend of psychodynamic, neuropsychological, mindfulness-based and cognitive theoretical frameworks to my work. My emphasis is on creating a safe and compassionate environment for the healing of a wide range emotional and relationship issues, making every effort to tailor treatment to the specific needs of each individual(s) seeking my help. My work with couples focues on a positive approach to differences, providing insight, improving communication and increasing empathy. I am open to referrals of individuals, couples, families, adolescents and adults.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 40 years, and bring an eclectic blend of psychodynamic, neuropsychological, mindfulness-based and cognitive theoretical frameworks to my work. My emphasis is on creating a safe and compassionate environment for the healing of a wide range emotional and relationship issues, making every effort to tailor treatment to the specific needs of each individual(s) seeking my help. My work with couples focues on a positive approach to differences, providing insight, improving communication and increasing empathy. I am open to referrals of individuals, couples, families, adolescents and adults.
(415) 802-0586 View (415) 802-0586
Photo of Kristi M. Hudson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristi M. Hudson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94945
You and your relationships are important and worth the investment of therapy. Reaching out for help can be challenging, but know that part of healthy relating is being able to reach out and trust that your needs can be met. It may be helpful to know that my Marin County office hours are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in Novato and Thursdays in San Rafael. I look forward to meeting you for a free initial consultation to see if we're a good fit!
You and your relationships are important and worth the investment of therapy. Reaching out for help can be challenging, but know that part of healthy relating is being able to reach out and trust that your needs can be met. It may be helpful to know that my Marin County office hours are Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in Novato and Thursdays in San Rafael. I look forward to meeting you for a free initial consultation to see if we're a good fit!
(415) 877-9318 View (415) 877-9318
Photo of Susan Kenny, LMFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Kenny
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Novato, CA 94949
I work as a Somatic Psychotherapist helping adults understand and regulate their nervous system. I am trained as both a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and a Transforming Touch Therapist to help clients with developmental trauma as well as depression, anxiety, stress, and loss. I use a body based approach to understand sensations in the body, and my style is active, warm and empathic. I provide a safe environment to learn how to harness your inner resources, manage stress and emotions in both the mind and the nervous system, and help you create more balance and ease in you life.
I work as a Somatic Psychotherapist helping adults understand and regulate their nervous system. I am trained as both a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner and a Transforming Touch Therapist to help clients with developmental trauma as well as depression, anxiety, stress, and loss. I use a body based approach to understand sensations in the body, and my style is active, warm and empathic. I provide a safe environment to learn how to harness your inner resources, manage stress and emotions in both the mind and the nervous system, and help you create more balance and ease in you life.
(415) 408-6891 View (415) 408-6891
Photo of Dawn Holiday-Bruner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dawn Holiday-Bruner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
Most of us would like to feel closer to those we love. However, we often get stuck in patterns of relating and conflict that fall short of what we truly desire. My passion is to see people find healing and experience growth as individuals and in their personal relationships.
Most of us would like to feel closer to those we love. However, we often get stuck in patterns of relating and conflict that fall short of what we truly desire. My passion is to see people find healing and experience growth as individuals and in their personal relationships.
(707) 289-9521 View (707) 289-9521
Photo of Nicole Douglas, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Douglas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Novato, CA 94945
Welcome! You may have been thinking about seeking support from a therapist for quite a while. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety, feeling alone, insecure in your relationship, or feeling stuck with distressing thought patterns that lead to an uneasy feeling of avoidance. I care deeply about creating a warm, empathic, and well-attuned connection with my clients. I strive to provide a collaborative experience while working with an array of diverse individuals who seek support with navigating their specific challenges.
Welcome! You may have been thinking about seeking support from a therapist for quite a while. Maybe you’ve been struggling with anxiety, feeling alone, insecure in your relationship, or feeling stuck with distressing thought patterns that lead to an uneasy feeling of avoidance. I care deeply about creating a warm, empathic, and well-attuned connection with my clients. I strive to provide a collaborative experience while working with an array of diverse individuals who seek support with navigating their specific challenges.
(415) 366-9064 View (415) 366-9064
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.