Emotionally Focused Therapists in Sacramento, CA

Photo of Sean Cook - Sage River Psychotherapy, PsyD, Psychologist
Sage River Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
We are a training clinic focused on Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and somatic approaches to healing individual and collective trauma.
Relationships are challenging. If you're struggling as a partner or parent, please know you are not alone. At Sage River Psychotherapy, we believe that we are all vulnerable to finding ourselves "stuck" in patterns that don't serve us well. We also believe in every person's ability to lead a fulfilling life and to maintain relationships that are meaningful, safe, and rewarding. If you're caught in cycles of conflict, anger, depression, anxiety, it's good that you're here. We'd love to help.
We are a training clinic focused on Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and somatic approaches to healing individual and collective trauma.
Relationships are challenging. If you're struggling as a partner or parent, please know you are not alone. At Sage River Psychotherapy, we believe that we are all vulnerable to finding ourselves "stuck" in patterns that don't serve us well. We also believe in every person's ability to lead a fulfilling life and to maintain relationships that are meaningful, safe, and rewarding. If you're caught in cycles of conflict, anger, depression, anxiety, it's good that you're here. We'd love to help.
(916) 525-8938 View (916) 525-8938
Photo of Melissa Tihin - Central Valley Family Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Central Valley Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814
CVFT uses CBT, Attachment Focused Treatment, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Treatment, EFT and many others.
Central Valley Family Therapy is a group practice whose sole focus is providing individuals, couples and families support through all walks of life. Our clinicians recognize the importance of quality treatment for each and every client that walks through our doors. We welcome clients with culturally diverse identities, backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, and experiences. We believe that every person who seeks support should have access to quality mental health services. Our focus is not only on your unique therapeutic goals, but in providing our clients with a warm, friendly and nurturing environment.
CVFT uses CBT, Attachment Focused Treatment, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Treatment, EFT and many others.
Central Valley Family Therapy is a group practice whose sole focus is providing individuals, couples and families support through all walks of life. Our clinicians recognize the importance of quality treatment for each and every client that walks through our doors. We welcome clients with culturally diverse identities, backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, and experiences. We believe that every person who seeks support should have access to quality mental health services. Our focus is not only on your unique therapeutic goals, but in providing our clients with a warm, friendly and nurturing environment.
(916) 269-5422 View (916) 269-5422
Photo of Amanda Whitten, APCC
Amanda Whitten
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
I specialize in Attachment, Narrative, Emotionally Focused modalities as well as parts of IFS and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Whether you are looking for support through a challenging situation or you are ready to begin working towards a new direction in your life, we can work together to create the foundation and self-awareness you need to reach your goals. I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and life transitions.
I specialize in Attachment, Narrative, Emotionally Focused modalities as well as parts of IFS and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Whether you are looking for support through a challenging situation or you are ready to begin working towards a new direction in your life, we can work together to create the foundation and self-awareness you need to reach your goals. I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and life transitions.
(916) 252-4189 View (916) 252-4189
Photo of Refugio Pantoja, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Refugio Pantoja
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95834  (Online Only)
I practice from an Emotionally Focused Therapy approach to create safety, security, and trust to support your relationship in being able to get back on track.
I specialize in working with community members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) community. I strive to provide a safe affirming space for individuals to work on being able to better manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, improve relationships and strive to live authentically.
I practice from an Emotionally Focused Therapy approach to create safety, security, and trust to support your relationship in being able to get back on track.
I specialize in working with community members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (LGBTQ+) community. I strive to provide a safe affirming space for individuals to work on being able to better manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, improve relationships and strive to live authentically.
(916) 794-3813 View (916) 794-3813
Photo of Briana Schiff, MA, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Briana Schiff
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Waitlist for new clients
I have a PsyD in Couple and Family Therapy and am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
No person is an island. Life would be so easy if it were possible to handle everything alone. Yet this world is full of challenges, stress, and trauma, made all the more difficult when we lack access to our most important resources. We get stuck in frustrating patterns that leave us feeling distant from our loved ones and from ourselves. This distance weaves its way into so many things: mental and physical health, identity, sexual interest and performance, and right back into the relationships we should be able to rely on.
I have a PsyD in Couple and Family Therapy and am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
No person is an island. Life would be so easy if it were possible to handle everything alone. Yet this world is full of challenges, stress, and trauma, made all the more difficult when we lack access to our most important resources. We get stuck in frustrating patterns that leave us feeling distant from our loved ones and from ourselves. This distance weaves its way into so many things: mental and physical health, identity, sexual interest and performance, and right back into the relationships we should be able to rely on.
(808) 215-6183 View (808) 215-6183
Photo of Janani Venkateswaran, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Janani Venkateswaran
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
I primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) along with elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Gottman in my work with clients.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with all that you have to do? Are you struggling to maintain your relationships? Does a balanced life seem like a far fetched dream? As someone who has had to balance multiple cultures, I know what it can feel like to straddle more than one. I want to help you find your balance between the "two worlds" of what is important to you and your family without taking away from who you are. I will work with you to tap into your inner voice, channel your strengths and become the most fulfilling version of yourself. I also provide Immigration evaluations for VAWA, Extreme Hardship, Asylum and U Visa.
I primarily use Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) along with elements of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Gottman in my work with clients.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with all that you have to do? Are you struggling to maintain your relationships? Does a balanced life seem like a far fetched dream? As someone who has had to balance multiple cultures, I know what it can feel like to straddle more than one. I want to help you find your balance between the "two worlds" of what is important to you and your family without taking away from who you are. I will work with you to tap into your inner voice, channel your strengths and become the most fulfilling version of yourself. I also provide Immigration evaluations for VAWA, Extreme Hardship, Asylum and U Visa.
(916) 237-9366 View (916) 237-9366
Photo of Giana Azizeh, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Giana Azizeh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Hi there! It’s important to experience a warm, nurturing, personalized space to help you reconnect with yourself and in your relationships. I’m passionate about helping individuals and couples overcome challenges surrounding intimacy, infidelity, communication, and connection. I promote my client’s individual growth and relationship health by incorporating Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Inner-Child Work, and Strength-Based approaches.
Hi there! It’s important to experience a warm, nurturing, personalized space to help you reconnect with yourself and in your relationships. I’m passionate about helping individuals and couples overcome challenges surrounding intimacy, infidelity, communication, and connection. I promote my client’s individual growth and relationship health by incorporating Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Inner-Child Work, and Strength-Based approaches.
(916) 252-5439 View (916) 252-5439
Photo of Dee Strickland, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dee Strickland
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95827  (Online Only)
A combination of narrative therapy, emotionally focused therapy, the Gottman Method, and solution-focused therapy is used in my practice.
I want to work with clients who are ready and willing to work hard. Clients that understand that challenges may arise, and the process may be uncomfortable at times. In order to create meaningful progress, they are willing to contribute to the development of the therapeutic relationship. The goal is to improve self-esteem, process, and heal from the trauma, and apply healthy coping skills.
A combination of narrative therapy, emotionally focused therapy, the Gottman Method, and solution-focused therapy is used in my practice.
I want to work with clients who are ready and willing to work hard. Clients that understand that challenges may arise, and the process may be uncomfortable at times. In order to create meaningful progress, they are willing to contribute to the development of the therapeutic relationship. The goal is to improve self-esteem, process, and heal from the trauma, and apply healthy coping skills.
(916) 892-0697 View (916) 892-0697
Photo of Melissa Frazier, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Frazier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT Tapping), Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), Polyvagal Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and many other theories that inform the treatment I provide.
My ideal client is an individual seeking powerful change and who is also willing to look beyond traditional talk therapy to achieve it. As the field of psychology changes and grows, I believe it is important to adapt with it. As important as talk therapy can be to achieving stability, there are other valuable contributions that process trauma and transform the self without the discomfort of verbally processing painful memories. I combine both insight-oriented talk therapy and body based therapies such as the Safe and Sound Protocol, EMDR, and EFT Tapping for optimal, rapid, results.
I am trained in EMDR, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT Tapping), Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), Polyvagal Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and many other theories that inform the treatment I provide.
My ideal client is an individual seeking powerful change and who is also willing to look beyond traditional talk therapy to achieve it. As the field of psychology changes and grows, I believe it is important to adapt with it. As important as talk therapy can be to achieving stability, there are other valuable contributions that process trauma and transform the self without the discomfort of verbally processing painful memories. I combine both insight-oriented talk therapy and body based therapies such as the Safe and Sound Protocol, EMDR, and EFT Tapping for optimal, rapid, results.
(916) 571-0095 View (916) 571-0095
Photo of Jill Jeffers Clark, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Jill Jeffers Clark
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95815
I use the most highly researched couples therapy that also has the best outcomes: Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
My passion is working with couples to help them have a more meaningful connection with each other. I also help adults overcome obstacles such as relationship issues, anxiety, negative thoughts, trauma, etc. in order to reach their goals. I have over 25 years of experience treating children, teens and helping parents use evidence-based strategies that work.
I use the most highly researched couples therapy that also has the best outcomes: Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
My passion is working with couples to help them have a more meaningful connection with each other. I also help adults overcome obstacles such as relationship issues, anxiety, negative thoughts, trauma, etc. in order to reach their goals. I have over 25 years of experience treating children, teens and helping parents use evidence-based strategies that work.
(916) 943-4214 View (916) 943-4214
Photo of Nathaniel Mills, PhD, Psychologist
Nathaniel Mills
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
While I frequently use Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral (DBT), Emotionally Focused (EFT), and Gestalt Therapies, treatment selection is based on clients' unique needs and tailored to the individual.
I treat adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties in my midtown Sacramento office. I've found success working with intelligent people stuck in situations they can't think their way out of. I enjoy challenging cases and working with diverse clients. I enjoy LGBT clients, people struggling with existential issues, and busy people trying to balance life with career. I have extensive experience working with treatment-resistant Depression, Anxiety, and Bipolar Disorders and can often help clients with innovative treatments. I am also Past President of the Sacramento Valley Psychological Association.
While I frequently use Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Dialectic Behavioral (DBT), Emotionally Focused (EFT), and Gestalt Therapies, treatment selection is based on clients' unique needs and tailored to the individual.
I treat adults suffering from anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties in my midtown Sacramento office. I've found success working with intelligent people stuck in situations they can't think their way out of. I enjoy challenging cases and working with diverse clients. I enjoy LGBT clients, people struggling with existential issues, and busy people trying to balance life with career. I have extensive experience working with treatment-resistant Depression, Anxiety, and Bipolar Disorders and can often help clients with innovative treatments. I am also Past President of the Sacramento Valley Psychological Association.
(916) 722-7792 View (916) 722-7792
Photo of Enid Wilson, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Enid Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
Approaches I use include: Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), CBT and DBT, and trauma-informed somatic.
I am passionate about helping clients reconnect with themselves and move forward after trauma or hurtful relationships with a sense of strength, self-confidence, and healthy coping skills. I work with individuals (ages 10+) who are healing from a harmful event or relationship, struggling with a sense of self and satisfaction, or want to gain insight into themselves and their relationships. Together we can work toward more self-awareness, satisfaction, and stronger communication skills while decreasing the negative effects of stress and conflict.
Approaches I use include: Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), CBT and DBT, and trauma-informed somatic.
I am passionate about helping clients reconnect with themselves and move forward after trauma or hurtful relationships with a sense of strength, self-confidence, and healthy coping skills. I work with individuals (ages 10+) who are healing from a harmful event or relationship, struggling with a sense of self and satisfaction, or want to gain insight into themselves and their relationships. Together we can work toward more self-awareness, satisfaction, and stronger communication skills while decreasing the negative effects of stress and conflict.
(916) 892-0329 View (916) 892-0329
Photo of Jasmeen Kairam, AMFT, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jasmeen Kairam
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
I primarily use Internal Family System (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Theory (EFT) along with the components of Attachment Theory and the Gottman Method to work with clients.
I have a strong interest in working with individuals who have faced trauma, especially sexual trauma, to help them rediscover their voice and feel heard. As well as, couples who are struggling with connection, infidelity and more. I acknowledge that every individual is unique and has their own story. As someone who identifies as South Asian, I understand being at the crossroads of societal pressures while trying to balance multiple expectations with various cultural considerations and the stigma that may come around mental health.
I primarily use Internal Family System (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Theory (EFT) along with the components of Attachment Theory and the Gottman Method to work with clients.
I have a strong interest in working with individuals who have faced trauma, especially sexual trauma, to help them rediscover their voice and feel heard. As well as, couples who are struggling with connection, infidelity and more. I acknowledge that every individual is unique and has their own story. As someone who identifies as South Asian, I understand being at the crossroads of societal pressures while trying to balance multiple expectations with various cultural considerations and the stigma that may come around mental health.
(916) 586-7019 View (916) 586-7019
Photo of Clint Pyeatt, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Clint Pyeatt
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
I use Internal Family Systems, Narrative, and Emotionally Focused Therapies, yet I can utilize other therapeutic models depending upon the needs of the person.
I work with clients who are engaged and motivated to reach their goals and fulfill their potential. Working together we can identify your wants and strengths.
I use Internal Family Systems, Narrative, and Emotionally Focused Therapies, yet I can utilize other therapeutic models depending upon the needs of the person.
I work with clients who are engaged and motivated to reach their goals and fulfill their potential. Working together we can identify your wants and strengths.
(916) 848-2913 View (916) 848-2913
Photo of Luana Coloma Cook, PsyD, Psychologist
Luana Coloma Cook
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
I have received specialized training in a form of couples therapy called Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
I work with children, adolescents, parents, couples, and families. I am warm, real, and collaborative. If you and/or your family members choose to work with me, I'll endeavor to create an environment that feels safe enough for you to take risks, be authentic and make lasting changes. We'll work together to explore the dynamics that may inadvertently by contributing to a problem cycle, so that you can feel empowered to act in more preferred ways of being.
I have received specialized training in a form of couples therapy called Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT).
I work with children, adolescents, parents, couples, and families. I am warm, real, and collaborative. If you and/or your family members choose to work with me, I'll endeavor to create an environment that feels safe enough for you to take risks, be authentic and make lasting changes. We'll work together to explore the dynamics that may inadvertently by contributing to a problem cycle, so that you can feel empowered to act in more preferred ways of being.
(510) 401-3798 View (510) 401-3798
Photo of Linda Rolufs, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Rolufs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I use EFT to assist couples to make their relationship a space of safety and growth.
You’re stressed out, worried all the time, and exhausted. Your to-do list is a mile long and you feel like you are letting everyone down. You have big feelings and painful experiences in the past—and you’ve tried everything to cope. You don’t want to feel worried, sad, or mad anymore. You can have a better life and relationships! Visit www.lovehealgrow.com to learn more or schedule with me today!
I use EFT to assist couples to make their relationship a space of safety and growth.
You’re stressed out, worried all the time, and exhausted. Your to-do list is a mile long and you feel like you are letting everyone down. You have big feelings and painful experiences in the past—and you’ve tried everything to cope. You don’t want to feel worried, sad, or mad anymore. You can have a better life and relationships! Visit www.lovehealgrow.com to learn more or schedule with me today!
(530) 464-1465 View (530) 464-1465
Photo of Dr. Caryn Banqué, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Caryn Banqué
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, developed by Dr.
Do you and your partner have the same argument and even though you know where it’s going, you’re still in it? Does your partner withdraw and refuse to talk about your relationship problems? Or maybe your partner constantly tries to get you to discuss your relationship and you don’t know what it is they need from you.
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, developed by Dr.
Do you and your partner have the same argument and even though you know where it’s going, you’re still in it? Does your partner withdraw and refuse to talk about your relationship problems? Or maybe your partner constantly tries to get you to discuss your relationship and you don’t know what it is they need from you.
(916) 912-4183 View (916) 912-4183
Photo of Dorian Cox, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Dorian Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
I primarily use a blend of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, and Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT).
I am passionate about working with people who are feeling lost within themselves. Navigating through life’s challenges can be increasingly difficult when you feel a loss of connection to who you are at your core. Emotions can be confusing, leaving people feeling helpless, stuck, and alone. I am determined to collaborate and help guide you through understanding the beauty of being a complex person with the ability to feel in control and powerful in the face of adversity.
I primarily use a blend of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, and Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT).
I am passionate about working with people who are feeling lost within themselves. Navigating through life’s challenges can be increasingly difficult when you feel a loss of connection to who you are at your core. Emotions can be confusing, leaving people feeling helpless, stuck, and alone. I am determined to collaborate and help guide you through understanding the beauty of being a complex person with the ability to feel in control and powerful in the face of adversity.
(916) 823-8588 View (916) 823-8588
Photo of Marcela Avila, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marcela Avila
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814  (Online Only)
My approach to psychotherapy is eclectic. I believe in working and creating an individual treatment approach unique to each of my clients. I am a person centered but also psychodynamic, in that I believe that the unconscious is an important door to change where we can uncover the root of patterns of behavior. I also have a passion for working with couples and helping them break free from difficult communication patterns using Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), which focuses on the attachment or strength of the bond a couple has and emotions that are getting in the way of safety, connection, and love. etc.
My approach to psychotherapy is eclectic. I believe in working and creating an individual treatment approach unique to each of my clients. I am a person centered but also psychodynamic, in that I believe that the unconscious is an important door to change where we can uncover the root of patterns of behavior. I also have a passion for working with couples and helping them break free from difficult communication patterns using Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), which focuses on the attachment or strength of the bond a couple has and emotions that are getting in the way of safety, connection, and love. etc.
(916) 527-9629 View (916) 527-9629
Photo of Catriona Macrae, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Catriona Macrae
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
I work with individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, women’s issues, and low self-esteem, I primarily work with an attachment based focus, integrating wisdom from IFS and EFT, as well as draw from a background in yoga teaching and mindfulness practices.
I view the path of therapy as a gentle exploration of the fullness of emotional experience, opening to suffering and grief as well as appreciation of the joyful moments. I offer an attachment based, holistic, and humanistic approach to therapy, seeing you as a complex whole person with the innate capacity to heal. Guided by compassion, curiosity, connection and courage within the therapeutic relationship, I work from a trauma-sensitive perspective and it is my intention to create a safe space for all races and cultures. I am allied with LGBTQIA+ folks and come from a sex positive perspective.
I work with individuals and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, women’s issues, and low self-esteem, I primarily work with an attachment based focus, integrating wisdom from IFS and EFT, as well as draw from a background in yoga teaching and mindfulness practices.
I view the path of therapy as a gentle exploration of the fullness of emotional experience, opening to suffering and grief as well as appreciation of the joyful moments. I offer an attachment based, holistic, and humanistic approach to therapy, seeing you as a complex whole person with the innate capacity to heal. Guided by compassion, curiosity, connection and courage within the therapeutic relationship, I work from a trauma-sensitive perspective and it is my intention to create a safe space for all races and cultures. I am allied with LGBTQIA+ folks and come from a sex positive perspective.
(530) 322-8883 View (530) 322-8883
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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.