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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ryanne Gatti, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryanne Gatti
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coventry, CT 06238  (Online Only)
We can do hard things. Throughout life many of these hard things can get in the way of us achieving our goals and continuing on with our journey. I am passionate about helping teens and adults overcome anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and life struggles to meet their goals. You are the creator of your life, I aim to help you on that journey. I also specialize in working with women whom are seeking to build their confidence, self-esteem, and step into their best version of themselves.
We can do hard things. Throughout life many of these hard things can get in the way of us achieving our goals and continuing on with our journey. I am passionate about helping teens and adults overcome anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and life struggles to meet their goals. You are the creator of your life, I aim to help you on that journey. I also specialize in working with women whom are seeking to build their confidence, self-esteem, and step into their best version of themselves.
(860) 390-2432 View (860) 390-2432
Photo of April Sozanski - Heart in Hand Healing Arts, MAATC, LPC, ATR-BC, CLAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heart in Hand Healing Arts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAATC, LPC, ATR-BC, CLAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Colchester, CT 06415  (Online Only)
Through gentle curiosity and warmth we will turn inwards and dive deeper while creating space to redefine painful emotions such as internalization and shame. At Heart in Hand Healing Arts we utilize a holistic approach to healing through both art therapy and counseling.
Through gentle curiosity and warmth we will turn inwards and dive deeper while creating space to redefine painful emotions such as internalization and shame. At Heart in Hand Healing Arts we utilize a holistic approach to healing through both art therapy and counseling.
(860) 266-2228 View (860) 266-2228

Online Therapists

Photo of Michelle Bloom, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Bloom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06905
Extensive training: Attachment based Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I strive to be a therapist who is challenging and direct without being judgmental; is open-minded and encouraging of my clients to explore options in their lives that may be different than my own or others around them. I am someone who doesn't rush to diagnose and pathologize, but rather seeks to understand. I am not invested in the choices my clients make, I am invested in my clients making choices from a place of wholeheartedness. And specifically, I have a keen understanding of the intricacies of intimacy and sexuality within relationship to oneself and community. As long as we "fail forward" together, we are perfectly imperfect
Extensive training: Attachment based Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I strive to be a therapist who is challenging and direct without being judgmental; is open-minded and encouraging of my clients to explore options in their lives that may be different than my own or others around them. I am someone who doesn't rush to diagnose and pathologize, but rather seeks to understand. I am not invested in the choices my clients make, I am invested in my clients making choices from a place of wholeheartedness. And specifically, I have a keen understanding of the intricacies of intimacy and sexuality within relationship to oneself and community. As long as we "fail forward" together, we are perfectly imperfect
(646) 760-1971 View (646) 760-1971
Photo of Jennifer Carlson - Jennifer Carlson, LCSW-R, LCSW-R, MSEd, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Carlson, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, MSEd, SEP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06905  (Online Only)
I am trained and certified in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Self-Hypnosis, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a trained couples & sex therapist.
Welcome. I seek to provide individuals and couples with an engaging and collaborative process. Aspiring to be curious and supportive as you identify & explore uncomfortable feelings, discordant self-beliefs, or painful relational dynamics that are keeping you from having more meaningful, enlivened, and loving connections to yourself and others. Navigating together, we will address areas, that may include love, family dynamics, internal conflict, issues of health, work, friendship, school, trauma, addiction, & loss. With couples' areas of exploration sex/intimacy, premarital counselling, financial issues, betrayal & fertility.
I am trained and certified in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Self-Hypnosis, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner (SEP), and a trained couples & sex therapist.
Welcome. I seek to provide individuals and couples with an engaging and collaborative process. Aspiring to be curious and supportive as you identify & explore uncomfortable feelings, discordant self-beliefs, or painful relational dynamics that are keeping you from having more meaningful, enlivened, and loving connections to yourself and others. Navigating together, we will address areas, that may include love, family dynamics, internal conflict, issues of health, work, friendship, school, trauma, addiction, & loss. With couples' areas of exploration sex/intimacy, premarital counselling, financial issues, betrayal & fertility.
(646) 846-9263 View (646) 846-9263
Photo of Anthony Gambuzza, PsyD, Psychologist
Anthony Gambuzza
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stamford, CT 06906
I am a caring, understanding psychotherapist who has advanced training and extensive experience (30+ years) working with individuals, couples, children, and families. My treatment focus includes problems of childhood, parenting issues, trauma, marital conflicts, infidelity, alcohol/substance abuse, depression and anxiety. I have post doctorate advanced training in family systems therapy and individual psychotherapy and have taught and supervised family therapy to therapists-in-training for over 20 years. I have advanced training in group psychotherapy, emotionally focused therapy, and solution focused therapy. I have developed training programs for mental health centers throughout New York, on family and couples counseling.
I am a caring, understanding psychotherapist who has advanced training and extensive experience (30+ years) working with individuals, couples, children, and families. My treatment focus includes problems of childhood, parenting issues, trauma, marital conflicts, infidelity, alcohol/substance abuse, depression and anxiety. I have post doctorate advanced training in family systems therapy and individual psychotherapy and have taught and supervised family therapy to therapists-in-training for over 20 years. I have advanced training in group psychotherapy, emotionally focused therapy, and solution focused therapy. I have developed training programs for mental health centers throughout New York, on family and couples counseling.
(646) 798-7927 View (646) 798-7927
Photo of Ruth Guedes -  Hypnosis, Life Coach, NLP & EFT, Emotion Code
Hypnosis, Life Coach, NLP & EFT, Emotion Code
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shelton, CT 06484
I provide an opportunity for change through Hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic programming (NLP), Emotional Freedom Technique ( EFT), Parts Therapy, Inner Child Work and the Emotion Code System.
I am offering a one on one session to help you reach your goals through: Hypnotherapy, EFT, NLP and Emotion Code. Release stress, anxiety, phobias, low self esteem, weight, stop smoking, negative belief systems, negative thought patterns, poor study habits, nervousness, submissive behavior, sleep issues, pre & post surgery, emotional difficulties and much more. Change your mind and change your life. The key to success is to change the programming that is embedded in your subconscious mind. Gain confidence and motivation, increase your happiness, increase your focus, perform your best, improve your health, get rid of bad habits, enhance your life.
I provide an opportunity for change through Hypnotherapy, Neuro Linguistic programming (NLP), Emotional Freedom Technique ( EFT), Parts Therapy, Inner Child Work and the Emotion Code System.
I am offering a one on one session to help you reach your goals through: Hypnotherapy, EFT, NLP and Emotion Code. Release stress, anxiety, phobias, low self esteem, weight, stop smoking, negative belief systems, negative thought patterns, poor study habits, nervousness, submissive behavior, sleep issues, pre & post surgery, emotional difficulties and much more. Change your mind and change your life. The key to success is to change the programming that is embedded in your subconscious mind. Gain confidence and motivation, increase your happiness, increase your focus, perform your best, improve your health, get rid of bad habits, enhance your life.
(203) 490-0747 View (203) 490-0747
Photo of Linda B Domenitz, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda B Domenitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107  (Online Only)
I am certified as an Internal Family Systems therapist and have extensive background in Gestalt Therapy, Focusing, Attachment and Trauma and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile.. How do you know that the unknown person you are reaching will be able to be attuned to you in the ways that you need? It's hard to discern this just from reading someone's profile. Most of my clients feel they know me before they reach out because they are referred by current or former clients. I like that but what about individuals who don't have the benefit of that pre-service information? I usually suggest potential clients schedule a FREE meeting for this reason. I hope you will consider doing exactly that.
I am certified as an Internal Family Systems therapist and have extensive background in Gestalt Therapy, Focusing, Attachment and Trauma and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile.. How do you know that the unknown person you are reaching will be able to be attuned to you in the ways that you need? It's hard to discern this just from reading someone's profile. Most of my clients feel they know me before they reach out because they are referred by current or former clients. I like that but what about individuals who don't have the benefit of that pre-service information? I usually suggest potential clients schedule a FREE meeting for this reason. I hope you will consider doing exactly that.
(941) 206-0718 View (941) 206-0718
Photo of Blair McCracken, PhD, Psychologist
Blair McCracken
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Guilford, CT 06437
Does your child suffer from anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorder, attention deficit disorder, oppositional disorder, autistic syndrome, obsessive compulsive disorder, or a learning disorder? I can help. In practice for more than 25 years, I have a Masters Degree in Child Psychology, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology , I work closely with parents, schools, and pediatricians, providing therapy and psychological evaluations for children. I also provide custody evaluations. Children enjoy my delightful play therapy room. Evening appointments are provided for adults , parents, or couples .I shape my therapeutic approach with adults to their diagnostic needs..
Does your child suffer from anxiety, depression, anger, eating disorder, attention deficit disorder, oppositional disorder, autistic syndrome, obsessive compulsive disorder, or a learning disorder? I can help. In practice for more than 25 years, I have a Masters Degree in Child Psychology, and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology , I work closely with parents, schools, and pediatricians, providing therapy and psychological evaluations for children. I also provide custody evaluations. Children enjoy my delightful play therapy room. Evening appointments are provided for adults , parents, or couples .I shape my therapeutic approach with adults to their diagnostic needs..
(203) 635-5015 View (203) 635-5015
Photo of Louise Kenny, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Louise Kenny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Danbury, CT 06810  (Online Only)
Hello, dear one. Life is a journey. Sometimes we can get lost and feel confused. Asking for help in those moments can be scary. Congratulations! You have taken a courageous step on your behalf! I am Louise Kenny, a licensed clinical social worker in two states, Florida and Connecticut.
Hello, dear one. Life is a journey. Sometimes we can get lost and feel confused. Asking for help in those moments can be scary. Congratulations! You have taken a courageous step on your behalf! I am Louise Kenny, a licensed clinical social worker in two states, Florida and Connecticut.
(203) 883-0734 View (203) 883-0734
Photo of Taylor Piggott, LPCA
Taylor Piggott
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
Suffield, CT 06078
Whether you are a teen facing the complexities of adolescence, a parent navigating challenging behaviors or family dynamics or a child processing trauma or loss, I am here to help. I have extensive experience in both clinical and school settings working with children, teens, and their families to work collaboratively to discuss and understand the unique and developmental challenges faced daily. I believe play and art help individuals which is why I am enrolled in Sacred Heart’s Play and Art Therapy Program to become a registered play and art therapist. I have also assisted individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief.
Whether you are a teen facing the complexities of adolescence, a parent navigating challenging behaviors or family dynamics or a child processing trauma or loss, I am here to help. I have extensive experience in both clinical and school settings working with children, teens, and their families to work collaboratively to discuss and understand the unique and developmental challenges faced daily. I believe play and art help individuals which is why I am enrolled in Sacred Heart’s Play and Art Therapy Program to become a registered play and art therapist. I have also assisted individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief.
(860) 419-7541 View (860) 419-7541
Photo of Pamela Lape, LP, NCPysA, LMHC, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Pamela Lape
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP, NCPysA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Chester, CT 06412
Pamela is a calming, beneficial presence on life's journey. With empathy and compassion, she gently helps you make permanent changes leading to a happier, more fulfilling life. Pamela has been a practicing psychodynamic psychotherapist for 33 years. Her work focuses on addressing the problems at hand and then collaborating with you to find and understand the underlying belief systems that are causing disharmony and unhappiness with yourself and others. Pamela works with you to develop a more satisfying, life-enhancing belief system, helping you to flourish to your potential.
Pamela is a calming, beneficial presence on life's journey. With empathy and compassion, she gently helps you make permanent changes leading to a happier, more fulfilling life. Pamela has been a practicing psychodynamic psychotherapist for 33 years. Her work focuses on addressing the problems at hand and then collaborating with you to find and understand the underlying belief systems that are causing disharmony and unhappiness with yourself and others. Pamela works with you to develop a more satisfying, life-enhancing belief system, helping you to flourish to your potential.
(860) 865-1974 View (860) 865-1974
Photo of Serena Woroglian, MA, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Serena Woroglian
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
If you are struggling to be the person you want to be, having relationship issues or managing anxiety and depression don't go through it alone. I am here to help you work through your concerns with understanding and compassion. Having been through difficulties in my own life I am empathic towards others who are struggling. We will work together to identify unhelpful patterns and how to change them. You will also have a confidential space to think through what is happening so that you can get from where you are to where you want to be. You deserve to have peace of mind and calm in your relationships.
If you are struggling to be the person you want to be, having relationship issues or managing anxiety and depression don't go through it alone. I am here to help you work through your concerns with understanding and compassion. Having been through difficulties in my own life I am empathic towards others who are struggling. We will work together to identify unhelpful patterns and how to change them. You will also have a confidential space to think through what is happening so that you can get from where you are to where you want to be. You deserve to have peace of mind and calm in your relationships.
(475) 897-5312 View (475) 897-5312
Photo of Talia Ben-Joseph, MA, MEd, LPC, CCTP, CMHIMP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Talia Ben-Joseph
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, CCTP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
A commitment to treat the whole person: BODY, MIND, HEART AND SPIRIT. My practice is dedicated to treating children, adolescent, college students, their family members, and special needs. Adults are seen on a case by case. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Expressive Therapist, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I view the body, mind, and spirit as being integrally connected and my practice is based on neuroscience research. My approach is integrative, holistic, dynamic, and experiential. This perspective has led me to extensive post-graduate training in cutting-edge techniques that help speed up the healing process
A commitment to treat the whole person: BODY, MIND, HEART AND SPIRIT. My practice is dedicated to treating children, adolescent, college students, their family members, and special needs. Adults are seen on a case by case. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Expressive Therapist, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I view the body, mind, and spirit as being integrally connected and my practice is based on neuroscience research. My approach is integrative, holistic, dynamic, and experiential. This perspective has led me to extensive post-graduate training in cutting-edge techniques that help speed up the healing process
(203) 654-3701 View (203) 654-3701
Photo of Kate Feiner Lorenzoni, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Feiner Lorenzoni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Woodbridge, CT 06525  (Online Only)
Therapy is going to the gym for your emotional and relational well-being, so I give you a ton of credit for being here, exploring how to get in shape! Throughout my work, I have developed a style that is warm, direct, and actively challenges you to evolve. I have a tremendous working knowledge of evidence-based models, including CBT, DBT, MST, and ACT, as well as psychodynamic theory and the Gottman Method. My commitment to staying updated on current research and utilizing evidence-based models is a testament to my resolve to deliver therapy that actually works to help you meet your goals and experience relief.
Therapy is going to the gym for your emotional and relational well-being, so I give you a ton of credit for being here, exploring how to get in shape! Throughout my work, I have developed a style that is warm, direct, and actively challenges you to evolve. I have a tremendous working knowledge of evidence-based models, including CBT, DBT, MST, and ACT, as well as psychodynamic theory and the Gottman Method. My commitment to staying updated on current research and utilizing evidence-based models is a testament to my resolve to deliver therapy that actually works to help you meet your goals and experience relief.
(914) 219-6821 View (914) 219-6821
Photo of Stephanie Gerrish O'Sullivan, MA, CMHC, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Gerrish O'Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CMHC, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guilford, CT 06437  (Online Only)
My ideal client is an individual who is willing to work. I have a passion for helping clients learn more about who they are and how to fully accept both the good and the bad with in them. This understanding of who we are, will always lead to a healthier state of mind. For me there is no greater reward then seeing a client reach that AH-HA moment that true inner growth and self-awareness connects.
My ideal client is an individual who is willing to work. I have a passion for helping clients learn more about who they are and how to fully accept both the good and the bad with in them. This understanding of who we are, will always lead to a healthier state of mind. For me there is no greater reward then seeing a client reach that AH-HA moment that true inner growth and self-awareness connects.
(203) 583-3475 View (203) 583-3475
Photo of Nermeen Naguib - HIAAH, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
HIAAH
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, CT 06804
When we saw mental health being unaffordable and incomplete, we took on this endeavor of launching our unique model of mental health wellness throughout many cities and states. Before we started, we saw a great demand for receiving affordable, comprehensive, and enjoyable mental healthcare. So, we started our company to provide counseling that is affordable on the base prices, but also extremely affordable through our unmatched sliding scale models. We also didn't sacrifice the quality of care delivered, but even increased it. We now offer in-person and virtual visits in CT, FL, NJ, NV, and PA.
When we saw mental health being unaffordable and incomplete, we took on this endeavor of launching our unique model of mental health wellness throughout many cities and states. Before we started, we saw a great demand for receiving affordable, comprehensive, and enjoyable mental healthcare. So, we started our company to provide counseling that is affordable on the base prices, but also extremely affordable through our unmatched sliding scale models. We also didn't sacrifice the quality of care delivered, but even increased it. We now offer in-person and virtual visits in CT, FL, NJ, NV, and PA.
(203) 717-5842 x1 View (203) 717-5842 x1
Photo of Elisa Lederer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisa Lederer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, relationship problems or a sense of dread about your future? Are painful traumatic experiences from the past continuing to trigger and trouble you? People often feel very alone with their problems. Feelings of shame, hopelessness, and fears of being judged, or that no one will truly understand, can keep people from getting the help they need. Through our work together, you will learn practical skills that calm those intense triggers, diminish the harsh negative self-talk, and conquer those self-defeating thoughts and behaviors.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, relationship problems or a sense of dread about your future? Are painful traumatic experiences from the past continuing to trigger and trouble you? People often feel very alone with their problems. Feelings of shame, hopelessness, and fears of being judged, or that no one will truly understand, can keep people from getting the help they need. Through our work together, you will learn practical skills that calm those intense triggers, diminish the harsh negative self-talk, and conquer those self-defeating thoughts and behaviors.
(561) 473-1910 View (561) 473-1910
Photo of Charlotte Underwood, MA, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Underwood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Stonington, CT 06378
I am a depth oriented psychotherapist specializing in trauma, ancestral healing, and somatic therapy. While you may be experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or insomnia, these are all symptoms. I work with you to heal what’s causing your distress, dis-ease. When the body, heart, mind, soul and spirit are not aligned, we suffer. We will work using a variety of approaches depending on what needs the most tending and care, always with compassion and a pace that is safe and allows for long term healing, integration, and nervous system regulation, allowing your natural rhythm to return.
I am a depth oriented psychotherapist specializing in trauma, ancestral healing, and somatic therapy. While you may be experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or insomnia, these are all symptoms. I work with you to heal what’s causing your distress, dis-ease. When the body, heart, mind, soul and spirit are not aligned, we suffer. We will work using a variety of approaches depending on what needs the most tending and care, always with compassion and a pace that is safe and allows for long term healing, integration, and nervous system regulation, allowing your natural rhythm to return.
(401) 388-3421 View (401) 388-3421
Photo of David Joseph Norton - Hartford Hypnosis Center;David J. Norton LPC, MA, LPC, NBCC, ASCH, NESCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hartford Hypnosis Center;David J. Norton LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC, ASCH, NESCH
Verified Verified
New Britain, CT 06052
The hypnotic approach to treatment is generally symptom-focused. It requires a structured time frame and use of trance in some form. Hypnosis is the preferred choice in dealing with many problems. It offers a unique ability in many cases as it deals with working through the unconscious mind. Hypnosis is an ancient art with a rich and varied history. It has been used to perform painless surgery, to ease childbirth, fear of flying, nail biting, fear of public speaking, headaches, insomnia, stress relief, dysphagia, past-life regression, sports performance, test performance, music performance and much more.
The hypnotic approach to treatment is generally symptom-focused. It requires a structured time frame and use of trance in some form. Hypnosis is the preferred choice in dealing with many problems. It offers a unique ability in many cases as it deals with working through the unconscious mind. Hypnosis is an ancient art with a rich and varied history. It has been used to perform painless surgery, to ease childbirth, fear of flying, nail biting, fear of public speaking, headaches, insomnia, stress relief, dysphagia, past-life regression, sports performance, test performance, music performance and much more.
(860) 229-5513 View (860) 229-5513
Photo of Paula R. Coppola, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula R. Coppola
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107
We all have the power to heal. Within each of us are emotional parts that guide our choices, lifestyle, and overall way of being. These parts are created through our experiences, generational burdens, or through childhood trauma. In our work together, I will guide you in looking inward, seeking to identify your unique parts, how they came to be, and eventually learn to embrace them. It is through this inward journey, that you begin to feel love, kindness, and whole. In my work as a Marriage and Family Therapist, my approach is unique to each client.
We all have the power to heal. Within each of us are emotional parts that guide our choices, lifestyle, and overall way of being. These parts are created through our experiences, generational burdens, or through childhood trauma. In our work together, I will guide you in looking inward, seeking to identify your unique parts, how they came to be, and eventually learn to embrace them. It is through this inward journey, that you begin to feel love, kindness, and whole. In my work as a Marriage and Family Therapist, my approach is unique to each client.
(475) 889-7908 View (475) 889-7908

See more therapy options for Columbia

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.