Emotionally Focused Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
![Photo of Kristin Stringfellow, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eda0d64-32cd-43d5-8ff9-6cee0d2b91d4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristin Stringfellow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I have completed Advanced Training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, a highly effective approach to couples therapy.
As a therapist at Mindful Heart Counseling Center, I work with couples and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life-transitions. Coping with what’s happening in your life can be overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief and learn skills to build resilience. I strive to help my clients live mindfully and find peace in the present moment. I approach therapy from a mindfulness-based perspective, from which we focus on gathering a better understanding of our thoughts and behaviors by exploring our emotions without judgement.
I have completed Advanced Training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, a highly effective approach to couples therapy.
As a therapist at Mindful Heart Counseling Center, I work with couples and individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life-transitions. Coping with what’s happening in your life can be overwhelming and I’m here to help you find relief and learn skills to build resilience. I strive to help my clients live mindfully and find peace in the present moment. I approach therapy from a mindfulness-based perspective, from which we focus on gathering a better understanding of our thoughts and behaviors by exploring our emotions without judgement.
![Photo of Corinne Roberts - Mindful Heart Counseling Center, LMFT, AMFT, APCC, MA, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511b9c8e-f283-4d7f-9bf9-c20b425d1343/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mindful Heart Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, APCC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
All of our therapists are trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples; a highly effective approach to help couples create real change in their relationships.
Our team offers a safe, supportive environment and a warm, compassionate, open-minded approach. We work with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, college life, young adulthood, relationships, men’s issues, parenting struggles, grief and loss, work/career and exploring existential and spiritual concerns. The heart of our work is to help you develop deeper self-understanding, self-compassion and coping skills while working through issues of the present and the past. We offer a variety of approaches including mindfulness, art therapy, IFS informed and somatic work. We also offer 2-3 day couples intensives.
All of our therapists are trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples; a highly effective approach to help couples create real change in their relationships.
Our team offers a safe, supportive environment and a warm, compassionate, open-minded approach. We work with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, college life, young adulthood, relationships, men’s issues, parenting struggles, grief and loss, work/career and exploring existential and spiritual concerns. The heart of our work is to help you develop deeper self-understanding, self-compassion and coping skills while working through issues of the present and the past. We offer a variety of approaches including mindfulness, art therapy, IFS informed and somatic work. We also offer 2-3 day couples intensives.
![Photo of Debra Kambourian, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/764c1584-3679-44ca-939e-bb1db6c1b4d0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Debra Kambourian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through Emotionally Focused Therapy and/or EMDR, we create a predictable and applicable framework of what happens inside and out of your body as these stressful events occur.
Do you ever find yourself asking, "Why can't I just get my life together, get along with people like everyone else?" "Am I the crazy one?" How about "I'm tired of feeling misunderstood, walked all over, like I can't do anything right." It's easy to feel stuck and alone when struggling in life and relationships, as if you're "too emotional" and destined for a lonely and shameful life. Many opinions about what you're doing wrong and recommendations of how to fix discourage you, leaving you feeling even more flawed and confused than before. Most importantly, do you find yourself feeling sad and terrified that nobody will EVER get you?
Through Emotionally Focused Therapy and/or EMDR, we create a predictable and applicable framework of what happens inside and out of your body as these stressful events occur.
Do you ever find yourself asking, "Why can't I just get my life together, get along with people like everyone else?" "Am I the crazy one?" How about "I'm tired of feeling misunderstood, walked all over, like I can't do anything right." It's easy to feel stuck and alone when struggling in life and relationships, as if you're "too emotional" and destined for a lonely and shameful life. Many opinions about what you're doing wrong and recommendations of how to fix discourage you, leaving you feeling even more flawed and confused than before. Most importantly, do you find yourself feeling sad and terrified that nobody will EVER get you?
![Photo of Ian Alexander Kizanis, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36f4fb85-1161-4da8-b2ee-22469d26839e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ian Alexander Kizanis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I strive to create a warm and attuned environment, utilizing extensive training in psychodynamic therapy, attachment, mindfulness practices, Gestalt techniques, and emotionally focused therapy to help process and make meaning of painful states as they arise and to support you in finding acceptance and a way to live more authentically and peacefully.
My approach to therapy aims at providing relational safety and an open environment, where we can explore and discover inner authenticity and acceptance. Much of the distress we experience as humans has deep emotional roots, and through compassion and the cultivation of relationship comes healing and regaining of one’s peace and autonomy.
I strive to create a warm and attuned environment, utilizing extensive training in psychodynamic therapy, attachment, mindfulness practices, Gestalt techniques, and emotionally focused therapy to help process and make meaning of painful states as they arise and to support you in finding acceptance and a way to live more authentically and peacefully.
My approach to therapy aims at providing relational safety and an open environment, where we can explore and discover inner authenticity and acceptance. Much of the distress we experience as humans has deep emotional roots, and through compassion and the cultivation of relationship comes healing and regaining of one’s peace and autonomy.
![Photo of Jennifer Kalusa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4b4009b-943f-489b-88a0-d7a61df6ba24/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Jen Kalusa, I'm an LMFT, and I specialize in working with adults looking for support in navigating traumatic experiences, relationships, self-discovery, and complex emotions. I believe each person has within them what they need to heal and to have emotional health and healthy relationships. I use a trauma-informed approach and am trained in EMDR, Flash technique, and havening to support individuals who are stuck because of a past trauma. I use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals to help them heal and move toward experiencing secure, meaningful connection.
My name is Jen Kalusa, I'm an LMFT, and I specialize in working with adults looking for support in navigating traumatic experiences, relationships, self-discovery, and complex emotions. I believe each person has within them what they need to heal and to have emotional health and healthy relationships. I use a trauma-informed approach and am trained in EMDR, Flash technique, and havening to support individuals who are stuck because of a past trauma. I use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals to help them heal and move toward experiencing secure, meaningful connection.
![Photo of Terri J Clarke, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8da1bf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My tools draw from evidence-based work of Dr John Gottman, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Imago Therapy, which can transform negativity and defensiveness into empathy and emotional intimacy.
Failing to get help, many divorced people regret that they gave up too soon. As a marriage specialist for over two decades, you can trust that you are in the care of a competent advocate for your marriage. Every marriage faces the power struggle -it's supposed to happen. Too many quit their marriage at this crucial time. Not giving yourselves the opportunity to work through this painful stage could be a tragedy because this very stage carries the seeds of true character growth and healing. An affair, dishonesty, conflict, or stress can rob you of the feelings of attunement.
My tools draw from evidence-based work of Dr John Gottman, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Imago Therapy, which can transform negativity and defensiveness into empathy and emotional intimacy.
Failing to get help, many divorced people regret that they gave up too soon. As a marriage specialist for over two decades, you can trust that you are in the care of a competent advocate for your marriage. Every marriage faces the power struggle -it's supposed to happen. Too many quit their marriage at this crucial time. Not giving yourselves the opportunity to work through this painful stage could be a tragedy because this very stage carries the seeds of true character growth and healing. An affair, dishonesty, conflict, or stress can rob you of the feelings of attunement.
![Photo of Michael Wayne Regier - Michael W Regier, PhD, Couple Therapist California, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d75959b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael W Regier, PhD, Couple Therapist California
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I am an Emotionally Focused Therapist helping couples & individuals with communication, trust & becoming their best self in or out of relationships.
Do conversations with your partner end in major arguments? Perhaps your partner lacks empathy and emotion. Or just doesn't listen. Are you feeling misunderstood or disappointed? Are you feeling the pain of betrayal? Maybe you're in a new relationship wanting to get it right from the start, to do things differently the 2nd time around. Or perhaps you want to focus on "you", to find your best self as you navigate what can feel like a complicated world? To find life-balance, love, joy & adventure, on your own or in a relationship. What is your soul longing for? Are you ready to discover the best, fully integrated version of "you"?
I am an Emotionally Focused Therapist helping couples & individuals with communication, trust & becoming their best self in or out of relationships.
Do conversations with your partner end in major arguments? Perhaps your partner lacks empathy and emotion. Or just doesn't listen. Are you feeling misunderstood or disappointed? Are you feeling the pain of betrayal? Maybe you're in a new relationship wanting to get it right from the start, to do things differently the 2nd time around. Or perhaps you want to focus on "you", to find your best self as you navigate what can feel like a complicated world? To find life-balance, love, joy & adventure, on your own or in a relationship. What is your soul longing for? Are you ready to discover the best, fully integrated version of "you"?
![Photo of Suzanne Barron, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cd5f89e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne Barron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Online Only)
I work with couples utilizing Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and am an ICEEFT Certified EFT Therapist .
These are difficult times. Whether you are sheltering in place, or out in the workplace, these unusual times can increase anxiety and depression. Online sessions are available to assist you in individual or couple counseling. Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel you have lost connection with yourself or loved ones? Change and healing are possible. It is a courageous step to begin therapy. I will encourage you and empower you to learn skills to more fully live your life.
I work with couples utilizing Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and am an ICEEFT Certified EFT Therapist .
These are difficult times. Whether you are sheltering in place, or out in the workplace, these unusual times can increase anxiety and depression. Online sessions are available to assist you in individual or couple counseling. Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel you have lost connection with yourself or loved ones? Change and healing are possible. It is a courageous step to begin therapy. I will encourage you and empower you to learn skills to more fully live your life.
![Photo of Jean Stapp, LCP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d5674d5-44a9-4b00-a6be-b500628cb2ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
I draw from a variety of evidence-based therapies to create a tailored treatment plan for each client, including CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT, and MBSR.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jean Stapp. I am a licensed psychologist (license number: PSY 33583) with extensive training and experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship issues. My ultimate goal is to help my clients take the steps they need to shape the kinds of lives that they desire. I typically work with individuals undergoing depression, anxiety, childhood trauma (or coming to terms with a difficult and confusing childhood), sexual abuse/assault, life transitions, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
I draw from a variety of evidence-based therapies to create a tailored treatment plan for each client, including CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT, and MBSR.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jean Stapp. I am a licensed psychologist (license number: PSY 33583) with extensive training and experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, and relationship issues. My ultimate goal is to help my clients take the steps they need to shape the kinds of lives that they desire. I typically work with individuals undergoing depression, anxiety, childhood trauma (or coming to terms with a difficult and confusing childhood), sexual abuse/assault, life transitions, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
![Photo of Amanda Turull, MA, AMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0b11db4-67f0-4fdc-b41f-c3e90d255bf6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Turull
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
I use IBCT and EFT for couples work, and am certified in KAP.
Sitting with oneself, whether in individual, couple or family therapy, is not easy and I see my clients as courageous and hopeful for taking this step. Sometimes therapy is healing and transformational, other times it is simply a space to take some deep breaths. Either way, my practice is always client-centered and compassion-based, being present with you in whatever space you are in. My hope in working with me is that you develop a sense of self-compassion and a strength-based lens to view yourself and your relationships through.
I use IBCT and EFT for couples work, and am certified in KAP.
Sitting with oneself, whether in individual, couple or family therapy, is not easy and I see my clients as courageous and hopeful for taking this step. Sometimes therapy is healing and transformational, other times it is simply a space to take some deep breaths. Either way, my practice is always client-centered and compassion-based, being present with you in whatever space you are in. My hope in working with me is that you develop a sense of self-compassion and a strength-based lens to view yourself and your relationships through.
![Photo of Benjamin Rea, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33eca6cd-196f-4332-8605-8e02581de3d9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thank you for exploring my profile. I am accepting new clients. I see clients both in person and virtually. With over 20 years of experience, my training and experience is specialized towards working with couples and families, as well as adolescent and adult men. I utilize a direct, no-nonsense approach with notable success in treating addictions, family issues, anxiety (generalized, social, panic, etc), depression, trauma, and relationship problems. I am one of the only practitioners in San Luis Obispo County who specializes in working with men and who does family therapy. Please visit my website benrealcsw.com to learn more!
Thank you for exploring my profile. I am accepting new clients. I see clients both in person and virtually. With over 20 years of experience, my training and experience is specialized towards working with couples and families, as well as adolescent and adult men. I utilize a direct, no-nonsense approach with notable success in treating addictions, family issues, anxiety (generalized, social, panic, etc), depression, trauma, and relationship problems. I am one of the only practitioners in San Luis Obispo County who specializes in working with men and who does family therapy. Please visit my website benrealcsw.com to learn more!
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Priscilla Kiessig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
We all face moments that test our foundations. Seasons where we find ourselves struggling, often feeling alone and quietly wishing things would get better. It’s important for you to know that there’s no need to suffer. Hope is here. As therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), warmth, empathy, and growth are what you can expect from our time together. I believe in a compassionate, integrated approach to care, specifically tailored to meet your individual needs.
We all face moments that test our foundations. Seasons where we find ourselves struggling, often feeling alone and quietly wishing things would get better. It’s important for you to know that there’s no need to suffer. Hope is here. As therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), warmth, empathy, and growth are what you can expect from our time together. I believe in a compassionate, integrated approach to care, specifically tailored to meet your individual needs.
![Photo of Erin Lindvall, PhD, LMFT, FAPA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44eae046-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Lindvall
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, FAPA
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
I love my work as a psychotherapist, and consider it an honor and privilege to work with my clients and share in their quest for personal growth. I know that the decision to start therapy is often a difficult one. I applaud your willingness and initiative. My approach aims to engage, to inspire, and to help you imagine new possibilities. My goal is to assist you in developing tools and skills that enable you to more effectively deal with life and its challenges.
![Photo of Krissy Shippey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6661971f-0dff-4c0b-abca-dd2ce1218527/3/320x400.jpeg)
Krissy Shippey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.
As a therapist, I am passionate about walking alongside folks as they reveal their truths and vulnerabilities to themselves. I believe, and have witnessed that people are capable of long standing change with knowledge, support, and connection, and that therapy is a great place for that. You can learn new ways to manage life stressors, feel safe, gain confidence, and live a more joyful and purposeful life. I use cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, and strength-based techniques, while never ignoring the human element and connection where the real change happens.
![Photo of Vanessa Swier, MSW, LCSW, GC-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44919c52-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Vanessa Swier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Do you feel emotionally stuck? Are you a stuffer? You know, someone who hides your true feelings so you appear "okay" on the outside. Then, let me join you on your journey of feeling & healing. Healing is a process, an ongoing discovery & I'm here to help you uncover hope, find harmony & move towards healing. I'll support you in processing your feelings in order to live your most authentic life. Since earning my BA in Psychology and my Master of Social Work degree, I have worked passionately with individuals, couples, families, adults, college students & teens to learn positive ways to cope with life's many stressors.
Do you feel emotionally stuck? Are you a stuffer? You know, someone who hides your true feelings so you appear "okay" on the outside. Then, let me join you on your journey of feeling & healing. Healing is a process, an ongoing discovery & I'm here to help you uncover hope, find harmony & move towards healing. I'll support you in processing your feelings in order to live your most authentic life. Since earning my BA in Psychology and my Master of Social Work degree, I have worked passionately with individuals, couples, families, adults, college students & teens to learn positive ways to cope with life's many stressors.
![Photo of Alyn Bartick, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3efd3acc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyn Bartick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
Now is the time to remove the barriers to the life you desire. Using a supportive, strength-based, and straightforward approach, I will guide you to the more richly experienced life you deserve. I offer solution-focused sessions that achieve results quickly. From our first meetings, you will be less stuck and more prepared to move forward. After more than twenty-five years, I continue to find immense joy in helping clients to live healthy lives filled with meaning and contentment.
![Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b0c0d0c-e3ed-48bc-ae6d-d324f46bee03/2/320x400.png)
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
Emotions are a river, and sometimes the current can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for people to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, and finding new insight and resolutions to the difficulties in your life.
Emotions are a river, and sometimes the current can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for people to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, and finding new insight and resolutions to the difficulties in your life.
![Photo of Anthony Paul Martello, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc4fe153-423f-4ff1-8dbe-d0b2e452769b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anthony Paul Martello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
![Photo of Denise C Williamson - Denise C Williamson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdb13b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/8/320x400.jpeg)
Denise C Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
![Photo of Amber Gambel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5a6dc72-f5f5-4648-9cdb-2e9f9fbad7ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Gambel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Online Only)
Navigating life is exhausting and complex, it makes total sense that you are seeking support in managing life's stressors and how to cope with the changing world and society's expectations. You may be finding yourself living a life with extensive pressure, guilt, shame and difficulty living the life you want to live. I work with individuals who are often exhausted by their current situations in unhealthy relationships with themselves and others. However, we will work together in smashing societies expectations and creating your own, setting boundaries, learning to love yourself, and exploring and living within your value system.
Navigating life is exhausting and complex, it makes total sense that you are seeking support in managing life's stressors and how to cope with the changing world and society's expectations. You may be finding yourself living a life with extensive pressure, guilt, shame and difficulty living the life you want to live. I work with individuals who are often exhausted by their current situations in unhealthy relationships with themselves and others. However, we will work together in smashing societies expectations and creating your own, setting boundaries, learning to love yourself, and exploring and living within your value system.
See more therapy options for San Luis Obispo
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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.