Emotionally Focused Therapists in San Rafael, CA

Photo of Andrew Getz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Getz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
My approach utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you coming to terms with a challenging life transition, or feeling overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety, stress, sadness or depression or simply wanting a deeper connection with yourself? If so I invite you to contact me. I am skilled at creating a supportive and empathic environment that will allow you to explore your relationship to life's challenges and to align with your inner resources. My approach draws on strategies that are tailored to meet you where you are and to focus on your individual goals and needs.
My approach utilizes a variety of therapeutic modalities including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Are you coming to terms with a challenging life transition, or feeling overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety, stress, sadness or depression or simply wanting a deeper connection with yourself? If so I invite you to contact me. I am skilled at creating a supportive and empathic environment that will allow you to explore your relationship to life's challenges and to align with your inner resources. My approach draws on strategies that are tailored to meet you where you are and to focus on your individual goals and needs.
(415) 236-3536 View (415) 236-3536
Photo of Ryan Gertz, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ryan Gertz
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
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 Kimberly de Caires, LCSW, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly de Caires
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
As an integrative psychotherapist I draw from a wide range of interventions including CBT and DBT, mindfulness practices, somatic interventions, Psychodynamic principles, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Expressive Arts.
The last few years have been especially difficult and if you are feeling stressed, anxious, run down or depressed you are definitely not alone; and there is help. I support folks in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment wounds, grief and loss, relationship issues and life transitions in order to find more balance and peace in their lives. I combine warmth, authenticity, compassion and cultural responsiveness to cultivate a space where you can feel safe to process difficult emotions, learn new skills, and increase your sense of balance between mind, body and spirit.
As an integrative psychotherapist I draw from a wide range of interventions including CBT and DBT, mindfulness practices, somatic interventions, Psychodynamic principles, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Expressive Arts.
The last few years have been especially difficult and if you are feeling stressed, anxious, run down or depressed you are definitely not alone; and there is help. I support folks in navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment wounds, grief and loss, relationship issues and life transitions in order to find more balance and peace in their lives. I combine warmth, authenticity, compassion and cultural responsiveness to cultivate a space where you can feel safe to process difficult emotions, learn new skills, and increase your sense of balance between mind, body and spirit.
(510) 913-9411 View (510) 913-9411
Photo of Anneli Richards - Family Matters Of Marin, MA, MFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Family Matters Of Marin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
We use the Expressive Arts, IFS, Gestalt, EFT, Mindfulness, Family Systems, and EMDR when working with adolescents, adults, and families.
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
We use the Expressive Arts, IFS, Gestalt, EFT, Mindfulness, Family Systems, and EMDR when working with adolescents, adults, and families.
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
(415) 639-9164 View (415) 639-9164
Photo of Laura Elliott, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Elliott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I integrate Hakomi somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness, Brainspotting for trauma, EFT Couples Therapy, attachment theory and dream work into my practice.
The heart and emphasis of my work is to help you know and trust your deepest feelings and to live an emotionally authentic life. When you become more intimate and present with yourself you become more intimate and authentic with others. As you know yourself better, you'll discover how certain emotions, behaviors and beliefs have shaped your life and relationships and you'll become empowered to make many important changes. For over 20 years, I've helped couples and individuals develop increased self-trust and self-awareness, greater life purpose and more conscious, loving and intimate relationships.
I integrate Hakomi somatic psychotherapy, mindfulness, Brainspotting for trauma, EFT Couples Therapy, attachment theory and dream work into my practice.
The heart and emphasis of my work is to help you know and trust your deepest feelings and to live an emotionally authentic life. When you become more intimate and present with yourself you become more intimate and authentic with others. As you know yourself better, you'll discover how certain emotions, behaviors and beliefs have shaped your life and relationships and you'll become empowered to make many important changes. For over 20 years, I've helped couples and individuals develop increased self-trust and self-awareness, greater life purpose and more conscious, loving and intimate relationships.
(650) 262-3150 View (650) 262-3150
Photo of Lourdes Vargas-Bogardus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lourdes Vargas-Bogardus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (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 Victoria Bloom, PsyD, Psychologist
Victoria Bloom
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903  (Online Only)
Some of the modalities include, Imaginal Psychology, Psychodynamic, Art therapy, Mindfulness, IFS, ACT, DBT, Addiction and relapse prevention, 12-Step work, codependency, life transitions of all stages, trangender issues, Gottman couples work, and Emotionally Focused couples therapy.
Suffering and distress have probably brought you to this page seeking relief and greater well-being. I bring my knowledge, understanding, experience, and compassionate presence to the table in my role as your guide toward healing and greater well-being. Through deep listening with the aim of truly seeing you, we will forge a path together designed to work in the best way for you to heal, grow, and move forward. The aim is to develop insight, forge new skills, attitudes, and actions to create a life of greater well-being and satifaction.
Some of the modalities include, Imaginal Psychology, Psychodynamic, Art therapy, Mindfulness, IFS, ACT, DBT, Addiction and relapse prevention, 12-Step work, codependency, life transitions of all stages, trangender issues, Gottman couples work, and Emotionally Focused couples therapy.
Suffering and distress have probably brought you to this page seeking relief and greater well-being. I bring my knowledge, understanding, experience, and compassionate presence to the table in my role as your guide toward healing and greater well-being. Through deep listening with the aim of truly seeing you, we will forge a path together designed to work in the best way for you to heal, grow, and move forward. The aim is to develop insight, forge new skills, attitudes, and actions to create a life of greater well-being and satifaction.
(628) 345-4617 View (628) 345-4617
Photo of Linda Poggetti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Poggetti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903  (Online Only)
As a trauma informed-attachment focused therapist, I integrate evidence-based practices of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Flash, and Mindfulness.
If you are curious about the relationship between your experiences, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and desire a more harmonious relationship within yourself, and with others, therapy can help! Couples and individuals come to see me to improve their quality of life, to get back on track, or to develop new relational skills and experiences. Sometimes, we are aware of a specific incident, a recent or past trauma, or a relational injury that derailed us from having what we most desire. Other times we don't know what is in the way, and we feel frustrated and unsatisfied. Exploring and healing, opens pathways to achieve your goals.
As a trauma informed-attachment focused therapist, I integrate evidence-based practices of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Flash, and Mindfulness.
If you are curious about the relationship between your experiences, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and desire a more harmonious relationship within yourself, and with others, therapy can help! Couples and individuals come to see me to improve their quality of life, to get back on track, or to develop new relational skills and experiences. Sometimes, we are aware of a specific incident, a recent or past trauma, or a relational injury that derailed us from having what we most desire. Other times we don't know what is in the way, and we feel frustrated and unsatisfied. Exploring and healing, opens pathways to achieve your goals.
(415) 985-8458 View (415) 985-8458
Photo of Cathy Della Valle, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Della Valle
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94903
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 Michael Beltrano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Beltrano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
Hi, my name is Michael Beltrano, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work collaboratively with clients to build on the skills that matter to them. I have experience working closely with culturally diverse clients from ages 5-65+ dealing with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, dual diagnosis, BPD, and ADHD. I utilize person-centered approaches when building rapport. Additionally, I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, Emotion Focused (EFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution Focused approaches and interventions within the therapeutic process.
Hi, my name is Michael Beltrano, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work collaboratively with clients to build on the skills that matter to them. I have experience working closely with culturally diverse clients from ages 5-65+ dealing with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, dual diagnosis, BPD, and ADHD. I utilize person-centered approaches when building rapport. Additionally, I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, Emotion Focused (EFT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Solution Focused approaches and interventions within the therapeutic process.
(323) 991-9398 View (323) 991-9398
Photo of Christopher M Mayer, MA, LMFT, CBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher M Mayer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CBA
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I offer low-fee counseling for people looking to heal their pain and transforms their lives. People who come to me find a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment where they are free to work through difficulties with someone capable of really listening, holding space, and who sees them and the struggles they are living with. It is my passion to help guide people through the courageous process of healing the past and moving forward into greater health and well-being. I offer sessions both in-person and through telemedicine.
I offer low-fee counseling for people looking to heal their pain and transforms their lives. People who come to me find a safe, supportive, non-judgmental environment where they are free to work through difficulties with someone capable of really listening, holding space, and who sees them and the struggles they are living with. It is my passion to help guide people through the courageous process of healing the past and moving forward into greater health and well-being. I offer sessions both in-person and through telemedicine.
(415) 688-2031 View (415) 688-2031
Photo of Kate Leffel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Leffel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I draw from a variety of modalities, including EFT, ACT, IFS and EMDR.
I believe beginning therapy takes courage and I have the utmost respect for anyone taking that risk. I strive to create a warm space of acceptance for wherever you may be in your journey. For as long as I can remember I've been interested in people's stories. It's not surprising that I ended up doing the work I do. As a therapist, I listen to a person and help them make sense of both their struggles and their strengths. I help my clients find meaning in their experience and move forward to create new stories about themselves and the world around them.
I draw from a variety of modalities, including EFT, ACT, IFS and EMDR.
I believe beginning therapy takes courage and I have the utmost respect for anyone taking that risk. I strive to create a warm space of acceptance for wherever you may be in your journey. For as long as I can remember I've been interested in people's stories. It's not surprising that I ended up doing the work I do. As a therapist, I listen to a person and help them make sense of both their struggles and their strengths. I help my clients find meaning in their experience and move forward to create new stories about themselves and the world around them.
(415) 792-0157 View (415) 792-0157
Photo of Dee Moffett, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dee Moffett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I have advance training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy), Gottman Institute & Control Mastery.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and adolescents. If you find yourself worrying excessively or feel hopeless, sad, unmotivated; perhaps you're tired of conflicts with family/friends/colleagues, or in a difficult life transition, even happy events can feel unsettling, I can help. I provide a safe, discreet space where you feel comfortable examining significant life events, relationships, insecurities and fears, and goals and aspirations. With insight and understanding you will be better able to make decisions that align with your values which in turn provides you with more confidence, peace of mind and a meaningful sense of direction.
I have advance training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy), Gottman Institute & Control Mastery.
I specialize in working with individuals, couples and adolescents. If you find yourself worrying excessively or feel hopeless, sad, unmotivated; perhaps you're tired of conflicts with family/friends/colleagues, or in a difficult life transition, even happy events can feel unsettling, I can help. I provide a safe, discreet space where you feel comfortable examining significant life events, relationships, insecurities and fears, and goals and aspirations. With insight and understanding you will be better able to make decisions that align with your values which in turn provides you with more confidence, peace of mind and a meaningful sense of direction.
(415) 423-1873 View (415) 423-1873
Photo of Suzanna de Sanz, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanna de Sanz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and utilize these as practical tools to reduce stress and recover from trauma.
Therapy provides an opportunity to better understand ourselves and our experiences. You may be feeling stuck in old patterns, ready for a change, but unsure where to start. You may be struggling with new symptoms after a recent life transition or traumatic event. You may just need a space to be yourself and be heard. As a therapist I am direct, compassionate, and practical. My goal is to help clients gain a sense of balance and fulfillment in their lives. I work collaboratively with clients to explore areas of change, gain insight into patterns, develop practical strategies, and improve relationships with self and others.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and utilize these as practical tools to reduce stress and recover from trauma.
Therapy provides an opportunity to better understand ourselves and our experiences. You may be feeling stuck in old patterns, ready for a change, but unsure where to start. You may be struggling with new symptoms after a recent life transition or traumatic event. You may just need a space to be yourself and be heard. As a therapist I am direct, compassionate, and practical. My goal is to help clients gain a sense of balance and fulfillment in their lives. I work collaboratively with clients to explore areas of change, gain insight into patterns, develop practical strategies, and improve relationships with self and others.
(415) 870-3347 View (415) 870-3347
Photo of Neena Gleason, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Neena Gleason
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Waitlist for new clients
When working with couples, I provide trauma-informed support via Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Central to my practice is the belief in mind-body well-being and enduring resiliency, guiding clients towards a holistic understanding of themselves and their experiences. In our therapeutic journey, my priority is to ensure that our sessions are truly beneficial for you; that you feel fully seen and heard. I will regularly check in to gauge your progress and adjust my approach as needed, based on your feedback and evolving needs. I have a relational style and practice compassionate attunement, meaning I will openly offer reflections so that you never feel like you are talking to a blank wall, or being judged.
When working with couples, I provide trauma-informed support via Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Central to my practice is the belief in mind-body well-being and enduring resiliency, guiding clients towards a holistic understanding of themselves and their experiences. In our therapeutic journey, my priority is to ensure that our sessions are truly beneficial for you; that you feel fully seen and heard. I will regularly check in to gauge your progress and adjust my approach as needed, based on your feedback and evolving needs. I have a relational style and practice compassionate attunement, meaning I will openly offer reflections so that you never feel like you are talking to a blank wall, or being judged.
(707) 402-9610 View (707) 402-9610
Photo of Alexis Scarborough, MS, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexis Scarborough
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I use psychodynamic talk therapy as a bedrock for various other compatible styles such as IFS and EFT, tailoring our sessions to your specific values, needs, and goals.
Are you experiencing frustrating patterns of relational conflict? Do you have pervasive feelings of anxiety, worry, and dread? Do you want to understand yourself and your choices more clearly and in greater depth? Perhaps you sense that your past is impacting your current wellbeing, but you aren't quite sure how. One thing is certain: you want to feel better. You may want to feel more confidant, more connected, and more alive in your relationships. You may long to breathe deeply and move through your days with increased ease, relaxation, and personal agency. Therapy can help, and we can do it together!
I use psychodynamic talk therapy as a bedrock for various other compatible styles such as IFS and EFT, tailoring our sessions to your specific values, needs, and goals.
Are you experiencing frustrating patterns of relational conflict? Do you have pervasive feelings of anxiety, worry, and dread? Do you want to understand yourself and your choices more clearly and in greater depth? Perhaps you sense that your past is impacting your current wellbeing, but you aren't quite sure how. One thing is certain: you want to feel better. You may want to feel more confidant, more connected, and more alive in your relationships. You may long to breathe deeply and move through your days with increased ease, relaxation, and personal agency. Therapy can help, and we can do it together!
(707) 343-4658 View (707) 343-4658
Photo of Nazanin Jourabloo, MA
Nazanin Jourabloo
Registered Psychological Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
I believe you are your own best healer, and I am here to compassionately walk you through a journey of self-empowerment. It is okay to be uncertain of where to begin and how to navigate your difficulties. Not only are we human-beings, but we are human-becoming. How? Together we will create a respectful, non-judgmental, and trusting relationship. This space will allow you to be your authentic self. Our conditioned patterns learned in childhood tend to disconnect us from our authentic self. Becoming aware and conscious of these practiced beliefs modeled by our parent figures and society at large is a stepping stone to finding you.
I believe you are your own best healer, and I am here to compassionately walk you through a journey of self-empowerment. It is okay to be uncertain of where to begin and how to navigate your difficulties. Not only are we human-beings, but we are human-becoming. How? Together we will create a respectful, non-judgmental, and trusting relationship. This space will allow you to be your authentic self. Our conditioned patterns learned in childhood tend to disconnect us from our authentic self. Becoming aware and conscious of these practiced beliefs modeled by our parent figures and society at large is a stepping stone to finding you.
(415) 966-3659 View (415) 966-3659
Photo of Kristen-Lee Jorbahn Gkikas - Kristen Jorbahn Gkikas, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Jorbahn Gkikas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94903
If you have found this page you are likely feeling lost, confused, overwhelmed or simply don’t feel like yourself anymore. Maybe you are having a difficult time with a life transition or are struggling to cope with a loss. I am here to help you get back on track so that you can reconnect with your true sense of self and gain confidence that you can tackle problems, now and in the future.
If you have found this page you are likely feeling lost, confused, overwhelmed or simply don’t feel like yourself anymore. Maybe you are having a difficult time with a life transition or are struggling to cope with a loss. I am here to help you get back on track so that you can reconnect with your true sense of self and gain confidence that you can tackle problems, now and in the future.
(415) 849-4480 View (415) 849-4480
Photo of Debra Hadden, PsyD, Psychologist
Debra Hadden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I am a California-licensed psychologist with a doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I have extensive experience treating stress, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, trauma, and somatic illness, and is an expert on bio-psycho-social functioning. I work with individuals and families struggling with chronic mental and physical conditions that challenge health, well-being, work-life balance, and daily functioning. I am adept at working within multiple cultures with great sensitivity.
I am a California-licensed psychologist with a doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I have extensive experience treating stress, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, trauma, and somatic illness, and is an expert on bio-psycho-social functioning. I work with individuals and families struggling with chronic mental and physical conditions that challenge health, well-being, work-life balance, and daily functioning. I am adept at working within multiple cultures with great sensitivity.
(415) 429-7761 View (415) 429-7761
Photo of Kenneth Perlmutter, PhD, Psychologist
Kenneth Perlmutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
(415) 787-4610 View (415) 787-4610
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.