Emotionally Focused Therapists in Avon, CT

Photo of Kristin Ljungberg, MA, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin Ljungberg
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
I bring my extensive training and experience as an emotionally focused therapist to assist couples with experiencing one another from a newfound place of greater understanding and compassion for one another.
Don’t give up, you are not alone. When we are experiencing emotional pain, healing occurs when an empathic and compassionate therapist helps to explore and understand what your psyche needs. Pain is inevitable at times for all humans, although suffering does not have to be. Emotional discomfort is the signal from your psyche that change is necessary and crises and challenges can be opportunities for our psyche to heal and grow. If you have experienced a loss, are trying to manage conflicts with a partner, friend or colleague, or seeking to improve your relationship with yourself, psychotherapy or hypnotherapy can be helpful.
I bring my extensive training and experience as an emotionally focused therapist to assist couples with experiencing one another from a newfound place of greater understanding and compassion for one another.
Don’t give up, you are not alone. When we are experiencing emotional pain, healing occurs when an empathic and compassionate therapist helps to explore and understand what your psyche needs. Pain is inevitable at times for all humans, although suffering does not have to be. Emotional discomfort is the signal from your psyche that change is necessary and crises and challenges can be opportunities for our psyche to heal and grow. If you have experienced a loss, are trying to manage conflicts with a partner, friend or colleague, or seeking to improve your relationship with yourself, psychotherapy or hypnotherapy can be helpful.
(860) 385-2388 View (860) 385-2388
Photo of Laura Toce, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Toce
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
Coming to therapy can be challenging and create a sense of vulnerability. I strive to be a compassionate clinical psychologist to be a present, empathic listener to help people improve their life situation, relationships, and sense of well-being. I am best suited to treat individuals and couples who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, and trauma. I have a particular interest and training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. In addition, I work with individuals who develop psychological difficulties that accompany medical illnesses, specifically those who suffer from chronic pain.
Coming to therapy can be challenging and create a sense of vulnerability. I strive to be a compassionate clinical psychologist to be a present, empathic listener to help people improve their life situation, relationships, and sense of well-being. I am best suited to treat individuals and couples who are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, and trauma. I have a particular interest and training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. In addition, I work with individuals who develop psychological difficulties that accompany medical illnesses, specifically those who suffer from chronic pain.
(860) 591-9941 View (860) 591-9941
Photo of Margaret M Rudin, PhD, APRN, PMHCNS, Psychologist
Margaret M Rudin
Psychologist, PhD, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Are you a teen or parent looking for someone who can help you or your child feel better about themselves at school or home? As a clinical psychologist and child and adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist (PMHCNS) with prescription privileges (for those up to 17 years of age), I specialize in treating children and adolescents. Medication may be indicated for depression, anxiety, ADHD, symptoms from autism. In a holistic approach, I interface with school, therapist, PCP and naturopath and use the lowest effective dose of medication, avoid multiple medications and help explore potential learning disabilities.
Are you a teen or parent looking for someone who can help you or your child feel better about themselves at school or home? As a clinical psychologist and child and adolescent Psychiatric Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist (PMHCNS) with prescription privileges (for those up to 17 years of age), I specialize in treating children and adolescents. Medication may be indicated for depression, anxiety, ADHD, symptoms from autism. In a holistic approach, I interface with school, therapist, PCP and naturopath and use the lowest effective dose of medication, avoid multiple medications and help explore potential learning disabilities.
(860) 854-4578 View (860) 854-4578
Photo of Olivia Rose Lapointe, MA, LPCA
Olivia Rose Lapointe
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001  (Online Only)
Have you been struggling with difficult life changes? Change can be daunting and mark the end of certain paths, but endings are also new beginnings. Those new beginnings are ours to build into something better. Your voice, experiences, and feelings are valid and deserve to be heard. You're the expert on your own life. As therapists, we are here to guide you through the journey and help you take back your peace. Olivia is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. She completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at Southern New Hampshire University, earning a BA in Human Services and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Have you been struggling with difficult life changes? Change can be daunting and mark the end of certain paths, but endings are also new beginnings. Those new beginnings are ours to build into something better. Your voice, experiences, and feelings are valid and deserve to be heard. You're the expert on your own life. As therapists, we are here to guide you through the journey and help you take back your peace. Olivia is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. She completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at Southern New Hampshire University, earning a BA in Human Services and an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
(860) 957-9845 x3 View (860) 957-9845 x3
Photo of David Eppner, LCSW, LPC, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Eppner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LADC
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in CT. I am open to working with adults and adolescents. I have over 10 years’ experience working with adults and adolescents, within a variety of settings, including in-home, telehealth, and outpatient clinics, with my focus being on treating co-occurring disorders, substance and alcohol use disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, trauma, grief and loss.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor in CT. I am open to working with adults and adolescents. I have over 10 years’ experience working with adults and adolescents, within a variety of settings, including in-home, telehealth, and outpatient clinics, with my focus being on treating co-occurring disorders, substance and alcohol use disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, trauma, grief and loss.
(475) 323-6464 View (475) 323-6464
Photo of Taylor Samela, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Samela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Are you looking for an open-minded, supportive, and compassionate therapist? I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience building strong therapeutic relationships with individuals and supporting them in reaching their goals. I am a strength-based and client-focused therapist; I strive to empower and provide hope in sessions. I utilize a variety of techniques and I have trained in various models of evidence-based practices, in addition to being a Certified Reiki Practitioner.
Are you looking for an open-minded, supportive, and compassionate therapist? I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 14 years of experience building strong therapeutic relationships with individuals and supporting them in reaching their goals. I am a strength-based and client-focused therapist; I strive to empower and provide hope in sessions. I utilize a variety of techniques and I have trained in various models of evidence-based practices, in addition to being a Certified Reiki Practitioner.
(860) 854-4156 View (860) 854-4156
Photo of Gina Rose, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
I am skilled in treating youth and adults of all ages, professionals in health care/ emergency services, couples requiring support, and treating multiple conditions that occur together. I am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy which is designed for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder particularly Chronic PTSD. I am certified in Motivational Interviewing/Motivational Enhancement Therapy which is very helpful with trauma reaction behaviors like substance use and difficulty with personality or relationship development.
I am skilled in treating youth and adults of all ages, professionals in health care/ emergency services, couples requiring support, and treating multiple conditions that occur together. I am certified in Cognitive Processing Therapy which is designed for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder particularly Chronic PTSD. I am certified in Motivational Interviewing/Motivational Enhancement Therapy which is very helpful with trauma reaction behaviors like substance use and difficulty with personality or relationship development.
(203) 935-8491 View (203) 935-8491
Photo of Heather Quinlan, JD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Quinlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
I work with adults, teenagers and couples to help people find ways to feel better in their lives, in their relationships and in their own skin. Issues include self-esteem, sadness, stress, and dealing with difficult situations. We often talk about challenges and choices involved in relationships - romantic, social, family and professional. I also work with people struggling with food/weight issues, such as body image, eating disorders and emotional eating. We strive for physical and emotional wellness with a balanced individualized approach. In addition, I have extensive experience working with dancers and other performers.
I work with adults, teenagers and couples to help people find ways to feel better in their lives, in their relationships and in their own skin. Issues include self-esteem, sadness, stress, and dealing with difficult situations. We often talk about challenges and choices involved in relationships - romantic, social, family and professional. I also work with people struggling with food/weight issues, such as body image, eating disorders and emotional eating. We strive for physical and emotional wellness with a balanced individualized approach. In addition, I have extensive experience working with dancers and other performers.
(860) 213-8286 View (860) 213-8286
Photo of Marla Dakin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marla Dakin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
As a parent, you've been worried about what you see your teen going through. The excessive anxiety about school, relationships, and the struggle to adjust to any change in routine. Their stress level is high and they isolate from friends and family. You watch them play video games, scroll through social media and binge on Netfilx, but they never tell you what's going on. That's the scariest part. You want to help them, but you can't break through. And on top of that, the pandemic. You know it can't continue like this any longer.
As a parent, you've been worried about what you see your teen going through. The excessive anxiety about school, relationships, and the struggle to adjust to any change in routine. Their stress level is high and they isolate from friends and family. You watch them play video games, scroll through social media and binge on Netfilx, but they never tell you what's going on. That's the scariest part. You want to help them, but you can't break through. And on top of that, the pandemic. You know it can't continue like this any longer.
(860) 200-2050 View (860) 200-2050
Photo of Dr. Jeff Chervenak, PsyD, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dr. Jeff Chervenak
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PsyD, LADC
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Are you experiencing: anxiety, malaise, feeling stuck, indecision, less connected, angry, or a sense something is missing? Are your intimate relationships satisfying? Is doubling down on “getting back to basics” or are you still wrestling with abstinence? We don’t fail or struggle from a lack of desire or willpower. We fail or struggle from a lack of support. You likely need more support than AA, or an IOP provides. I provide a personal, customized approach that can improve the effectiveness of your other efforts dramatically. Getting and staying sober is so much more than putting down the substance.
Are you experiencing: anxiety, malaise, feeling stuck, indecision, less connected, angry, or a sense something is missing? Are your intimate relationships satisfying? Is doubling down on “getting back to basics” or are you still wrestling with abstinence? We don’t fail or struggle from a lack of desire or willpower. We fail or struggle from a lack of support. You likely need more support than AA, or an IOP provides. I provide a personal, customized approach that can improve the effectiveness of your other efforts dramatically. Getting and staying sober is so much more than putting down the substance.
(860) 362-2457 View (860) 362-2457
Photo of Lori A. T. Stanczyc - HorsePlayFarmingtonValley, LLC, MEd, LPC, CPS, ES, Licensed Professional Counselor
HorsePlayFarmingtonValley, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CPS, ES
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Play, expressive and animal assisted therapies utilize various forms of creative expression: art, music, movement, story-telling, role play, puppetry, sand, and animal energy, to help clients explore, feel, express and transform difficult emotions both for youth and their families. Together we will work to creatively resolve issues and teach coping strategies to alleviate unsettling feelings. I have worked with youth and families for over 35 years in various settings and capacities - teacher, counselor, coach, mentor and mom.
Play, expressive and animal assisted therapies utilize various forms of creative expression: art, music, movement, story-telling, role play, puppetry, sand, and animal energy, to help clients explore, feel, express and transform difficult emotions both for youth and their families. Together we will work to creatively resolve issues and teach coping strategies to alleviate unsettling feelings. I have worked with youth and families for over 35 years in various settings and capacities - teacher, counselor, coach, mentor and mom.
(860) 261-0195 View (860) 261-0195
Photo of Helena E Gagnon - Helena E Gagnon, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Helena E Gagnon, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001  (Online Only)
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients via telehealth! I am a licensed professional counselor who provides individual therapy for adults. My aim is to assist clients in gaining insight into their own mental health struggles and co-collaborate treatment goals based on what they want to achieve. I do focus a great deal on self-care, how to create boundaries, self esteem, and how to ask for help. Having a good support system and making sure your needs are met are important part of your foundation. I also explore how to identify emotions experienced and where they stem from that get in the way of our functioning and our happiness.
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients via telehealth! I am a licensed professional counselor who provides individual therapy for adults. My aim is to assist clients in gaining insight into their own mental health struggles and co-collaborate treatment goals based on what they want to achieve. I do focus a great deal on self-care, how to create boundaries, self esteem, and how to ask for help. Having a good support system and making sure your needs are met are important part of your foundation. I also explore how to identify emotions experienced and where they stem from that get in the way of our functioning and our happiness.
(860) 362-2355 View (860) 362-2355
Photo of Kate Reid Allen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Reid Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Not accepting new clients
I understand that life can be a difficult and trying journey. By receiving the appropriate help and skilled guidance we are better able to weather life's difficulties and gain understanding into our situations. This in turn will allow us to live better lives. My practice of psychotherapy is a broad brush which includes, but not limited to, trauma, addiction and gender issues. My work incorporates the use of EMDR, CBT, gestalt therapy, visualization and mindfulness training. As a psychotherapist, I am committed to my own growth. I feel this offers me continued insight not only within myself, but with my clients as well.
I understand that life can be a difficult and trying journey. By receiving the appropriate help and skilled guidance we are better able to weather life's difficulties and gain understanding into our situations. This in turn will allow us to live better lives. My practice of psychotherapy is a broad brush which includes, but not limited to, trauma, addiction and gender issues. My work incorporates the use of EMDR, CBT, gestalt therapy, visualization and mindfulness training. As a psychotherapist, I am committed to my own growth. I feel this offers me continued insight not only within myself, but with my clients as well.
(860) 339-6787 View (860) 339-6787
Photo of Vivian Mercado, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vivian Mercado
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use an integrative therapeutic approach to help clients achieve their goals. I am bilingual, fluent in English and Spanish. I believe in providing a safe, supportive, and positive space to help clients reach their full potential.
Hello! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use an integrative therapeutic approach to help clients achieve their goals. I am bilingual, fluent in English and Spanish. I believe in providing a safe, supportive, and positive space to help clients reach their full potential.
(475) 800-8782 View (475) 800-8782
Photo of Paulette Spagnolo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paulette Spagnolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
Understanding your experiences & emotions is the gateway to change. I believe people can change, even when they struggle to believe that they can. I strive to help clients learn new skills, or enhance those they are already using, in order to improve all areas of their lives. Imagine how differently you might feel if you could overcome the obstacles that keep you feeling stuck in your life & relationships. Patterns that no longer work for you can be reshaped and built upon to make the most of who you are and want to become. With compassion and acceptance, I treat adults struggling with a range of issues affecting their well-being.
Understanding your experiences & emotions is the gateway to change. I believe people can change, even when they struggle to believe that they can. I strive to help clients learn new skills, or enhance those they are already using, in order to improve all areas of their lives. Imagine how differently you might feel if you could overcome the obstacles that keep you feeling stuck in your life & relationships. Patterns that no longer work for you can be reshaped and built upon to make the most of who you are and want to become. With compassion and acceptance, I treat adults struggling with a range of issues affecting their well-being.
(860) 831-4547 View (860) 831-4547
Photo of Finn Siepser, MEd, MFA, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Finn Siepser
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, MFA, MA
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
Let’s get you to where you want to be. I believe my clients are the experts in their own lives and I bring to the work: lived experience, training, and a sincere commitment to you living your best life. I follow your lead while also speaking up when something sounds like it might be harmful internalized messaging. I am invested in working with people of a wide range of relationship models and social identities including polyamorous/non-monogamous, trans and nonbinary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color, fat, disabled, neurodivergent, and sex workers. I come to therapy as a second career from the art and education worlds.
Let’s get you to where you want to be. I believe my clients are the experts in their own lives and I bring to the work: lived experience, training, and a sincere commitment to you living your best life. I follow your lead while also speaking up when something sounds like it might be harmful internalized messaging. I am invested in working with people of a wide range of relationship models and social identities including polyamorous/non-monogamous, trans and nonbinary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color, fat, disabled, neurodivergent, and sex workers. I come to therapy as a second career from the art and education worlds.
(215) 709-0379 View (215) 709-0379
Photo of Michele E Nardella, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michele E Nardella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001
I work with individuals, couples and families to help them identify and address the difficult issues that are standing in the way of the strong, loving relationships they desire. I strive to help all clients establish positive communication skills and stronger relationships. I provide a safe and supportive environment where they can explore and address feelings of hurt or anger and develop goals that will move them toward healing and reconnection.
I work with individuals, couples and families to help them identify and address the difficult issues that are standing in the way of the strong, loving relationships they desire. I strive to help all clients establish positive communication skills and stronger relationships. I provide a safe and supportive environment where they can explore and address feelings of hurt or anger and develop goals that will move them toward healing and reconnection.
(860) 390-4613 View (860) 390-4613
Photo of Dr. Dori L Gatter, PsyD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Dori L Gatter
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001
With over 20 years of experience working with couples, business partners and relationships, Dr. Dori Gatter creates an environment of compassion and safety for your personal growth and healing. She uses cutting edge brain science and mindfulness based modalities to help you with your relationship issues and goals. Dr. Dori specializes in working with couples and business partners and offers couples retreats at our West Hartford office and Worldwide.
With over 20 years of experience working with couples, business partners and relationships, Dr. Dori Gatter creates an environment of compassion and safety for your personal growth and healing. She uses cutting edge brain science and mindfulness based modalities to help you with your relationship issues and goals. Dr. Dori specializes in working with couples and business partners and offers couples retreats at our West Hartford office and Worldwide.
(203) 212-9322 View (203) 212-9322
Photo of Laura Porter Baker - Laura Porter Baker, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Porter Baker, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avon, CT 06001  (Online Only)
***** I am currently unable to accept new clients at this time***** I have enjoyed working with children, adolescents, and adults for more than 20 years, with a focus on managing emotional difficulties, relationships, and stress. I tailor my approach to therapy based on each person's own unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths. I work collaboratively with clients to determine the best approach to support them in meeting their goals, and help them to build a foundation of coping skills and strategies that promote wellness and well-being.
***** I am currently unable to accept new clients at this time***** I have enjoyed working with children, adolescents, and adults for more than 20 years, with a focus on managing emotional difficulties, relationships, and stress. I tailor my approach to therapy based on each person's own unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths. I work collaboratively with clients to determine the best approach to support them in meeting their goals, and help them to build a foundation of coping skills and strategies that promote wellness and well-being.
(860) 453-6182 View (860) 453-6182
Photo of Raymond E Grasso, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Raymond E Grasso
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Avon, CT 06001  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life is a journey with its peaks and valleys. Along the way, we all need help and guidance. I can help you in taking your first step on a way to a better life. I am an experienced therapist who through motivational interviewing, evidence base practices, and a person centered approach will help you maximize your true potential, regain your self empowerment, and achieve your goals. I am able to provide brief or long term treatment including assessment, counseling, and pharmacotherapy monitoring. I have a strong relationship with various referral resources pertaining to other levels of care, psychiatric services, case management, and vocational training.
Life is a journey with its peaks and valleys. Along the way, we all need help and guidance. I can help you in taking your first step on a way to a better life. I am an experienced therapist who through motivational interviewing, evidence base practices, and a person centered approach will help you maximize your true potential, regain your self empowerment, and achieve your goals. I am able to provide brief or long term treatment including assessment, counseling, and pharmacotherapy monitoring. I have a strong relationship with various referral resources pertaining to other levels of care, psychiatric services, case management, and vocational training.
(860) 879-3185 View (860) 879-3185
1
Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is for couples who are emotionally distressed, stuck in an unsatisfying relationship pattern or feeling deeply alienated. They may even believe the relationship is beyond repair. Very often, the partners display intense anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal in the relationship. In addition, EFT is helpful to couples and individuals who have difficulty expressing emotions and those who have trouble regulating emotions.

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

People need emotionally focused therapy because the need for others is built into the brain, but the pressures of daily life can erode feelings of love, and couples often do not have the skills to find their way back to the comfort of each other. Instead, they may be stuck in repetitive patterns of anger, fear, grief, loss of trust, or a sense of betrayal. Emotionally focused therapy regards such strong negative feelings as expressions of protest over the loss of connection and turns them into pathways of reconnection.

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

Over the course of eight to 20 weekly sessions, couples de-escalate their negative emotional reactivity to one another so that they can listen to each other and be responsive to each other’s needs. Then the deep emotional and physical bond is restored, giving partners a sense of comfort and security, which they can use to solve whatever problems come their way. The therapist plays an active role, helping partners understand how anger and withdrawal are actually misguided cries for connection.

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

EFT is designed to help couples stuck in dysfunctional relationship patterns regain closeness and rebuild their relationship. Typically, such couples experience considerable distress, with partners feeling alienated and distrustful of one another, not certain their relationship can survive. EFT is also helpful to individuals experiencing attachment-related fears of loss; it helps them learn to use their fears as a way of eliciting the closeness they desire.