Emotionally Focused Therapists in Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Nadia Alvarez, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nadia Alvarez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I'm certified in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), helping partners understand hidden emotions, develop secure bonds, and communicate effectively.
Clients describe my therapy sessions as a safe space for reflection and growth, even when life feels messy. My ideal clients are adults facing anxiety, relationship issues, depression, or life transitions. They want to understand and manage their emotions, communicate more effectively, and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. I specialize in working with intercultural couples, couples in transition, or couples aiming to repair bonds and foster trust.
I'm certified in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), helping partners understand hidden emotions, develop secure bonds, and communicate effectively.
Clients describe my therapy sessions as a safe space for reflection and growth, even when life feels messy. My ideal clients are adults facing anxiety, relationship issues, depression, or life transitions. They want to understand and manage their emotions, communicate more effectively, and build stronger, more fulfilling relationships. I specialize in working with intercultural couples, couples in transition, or couples aiming to repair bonds and foster trust.
(909) 345-5803 View (909) 345-5803
Photo of Vida Nikzad, PsyD, Psychologist
Vida Nikzad
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Waitlist for new clients
Working with couples, I mainly use emotionally focused couples therapy and help them understand their relationships in a new way.
Do you feel alone, disconnected, or misunderstood in your marriage or your other relationships ? These feelings are absolutely normal for almost every person at some time in their lives. Fortunately you can do something about it. Clients come to me because something in their lives is not working as they would wish and they feel stuck.
Working with couples, I mainly use emotionally focused couples therapy and help them understand their relationships in a new way.
Do you feel alone, disconnected, or misunderstood in your marriage or your other relationships ? These feelings are absolutely normal for almost every person at some time in their lives. Fortunately you can do something about it. Clients come to me because something in their lives is not working as they would wish and they feel stuck.
(424) 294-8924 View (424) 294-8924
Photo of Alexandra Park, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexandra Park
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are you experiencing relationship issues with your partner or family members? I’m passionate about helping people have healthier relationships within themselves and with others. I work with couples and families who are stuck in conflict, seeking better communication, healing from past wounds, bridging cultural gaps, or adjusting to life transitions. I also provide individual therapy to support those affected by relational issues. We can work on managing anxiety, processing trauma, overcoming people-pleasing habits, improving emotional regulation, working through codependency, and embarking on a journey of healing and well-being.
I integrate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are you experiencing relationship issues with your partner or family members? I’m passionate about helping people have healthier relationships within themselves and with others. I work with couples and families who are stuck in conflict, seeking better communication, healing from past wounds, bridging cultural gaps, or adjusting to life transitions. I also provide individual therapy to support those affected by relational issues. We can work on managing anxiety, processing trauma, overcoming people-pleasing habits, improving emotional regulation, working through codependency, and embarking on a journey of healing and well-being.
(424) 699-2183 View (424) 699-2183
Photo of Arami James, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Arami James
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90039
I am an emotionally-focused therapist (EFT) providing Queer & neurodivergent affirmative therapy to individuals, couples and families.
Do you want to enjoy the present moments and be more present in your daily experiences, especially during times of change and transformation? Do you want to create a solid foundation during your current life transformation? Do you want to improve your communication and connection in your relationships during times of transition and growth? Do you seek to break cycles within yourself and overcome patterns that have been reinforced by societal, familial and personal narratives? Would you like to tap into your intuition and connection to your roots to find more balance, ease, calmness and creation in your life?
I am an emotionally-focused therapist (EFT) providing Queer & neurodivergent affirmative therapy to individuals, couples and families.
Do you want to enjoy the present moments and be more present in your daily experiences, especially during times of change and transformation? Do you want to create a solid foundation during your current life transformation? Do you want to improve your communication and connection in your relationships during times of transition and growth? Do you seek to break cycles within yourself and overcome patterns that have been reinforced by societal, familial and personal narratives? Would you like to tap into your intuition and connection to your roots to find more balance, ease, calmness and creation in your life?
(747) 239-4937 View (747) 239-4937
Photo of Victoria Venter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria Venter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90007
Not accepting new clients
Hi, my name is Vicky Venter, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist working in California. I work in a way that is client centered and eclectic depending on your needs. I have a strong inclination toward relational work because I understand we are hurt in relationships, and we HEAL in relationship. I am certified in Imago Couples Therapy as well as EFT and am currently training in Bioenergetics Analysis, a Somatic Psychotherapy. I work using an integrated approach. What that means is taking what you experience in the world and understanding exactly how it impacts you, then helping you decide what to do with that experience.
Hi, my name is Vicky Venter, and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist working in California. I work in a way that is client centered and eclectic depending on your needs. I have a strong inclination toward relational work because I understand we are hurt in relationships, and we HEAL in relationship. I am certified in Imago Couples Therapy as well as EFT and am currently training in Bioenergetics Analysis, a Somatic Psychotherapy. I work using an integrated approach. What that means is taking what you experience in the world and understanding exactly how it impacts you, then helping you decide what to do with that experience.
(323) 538-6988 View (323) 538-6988
Photo of Ker Yang, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ker Yang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am trained in emotionally-focused therapy, individuals and couples. I work with clients who are struggling with repeated unhealthy relationship dynamics, history of trauma (sexual, emotional and physical), currently in a life transition (break-up or existential crisis), fear of failure, living with an immense about of guilt/shame and intimacy issues especially with men. These are big problems to tackle on your own. Together, we will increase compassion for yourself, make clear of your wants/needs, remove barriers to achieving your wants/needs and live the life that makes you feel good.
Hi there! I am trained in emotionally-focused therapy, individuals and couples. I work with clients who are struggling with repeated unhealthy relationship dynamics, history of trauma (sexual, emotional and physical), currently in a life transition (break-up or existential crisis), fear of failure, living with an immense about of guilt/shame and intimacy issues especially with men. These are big problems to tackle on your own. Together, we will increase compassion for yourself, make clear of your wants/needs, remove barriers to achieving your wants/needs and live the life that makes you feel good.
(310) 601-4457 View (310) 601-4457
Photo of Claudia Santorelli-Bates, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Santorelli-Bates
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90011  (Online Only)
My approach involves using the humanistic approach of EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and Internal Family Systems Model, as well as identifying patterns to explore what no longer benefits your life anymore, and may be stopping you from living your most authentic and full life during these difficult times.
Covid times are hard and complicated for all of us. Whether you’re looking for a new therapist or it’s your first time in therapy, together we can learn new ways to navigate our expectations and feelings during this time. Each of our experiences are unique, complex, and personal. Whether you are dealing with addiction, relationships, trauma, or the general stress of living in today's modern world - therapy is the right choice. Being open to getting help is the first step.
My approach involves using the humanistic approach of EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and Internal Family Systems Model, as well as identifying patterns to explore what no longer benefits your life anymore, and may be stopping you from living your most authentic and full life during these difficult times.
Covid times are hard and complicated for all of us. Whether you’re looking for a new therapist or it’s your first time in therapy, together we can learn new ways to navigate our expectations and feelings during this time. Each of our experiences are unique, complex, and personal. Whether you are dealing with addiction, relationships, trauma, or the general stress of living in today's modern world - therapy is the right choice. Being open to getting help is the first step.
(424) 238-6765 View (424) 238-6765
Photo of Judy Tam, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Judy Tam
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90049  (Online Only)
I am trained in Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Mindfulness.
As a therapist who was born and raised in Hong Kong, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse clients of all backgrounds. I understand the unique challenges faced by children of immigrants, particularly those identifying as Asian American or emerging adults. Asian Americans often struggle with establishing a sense of belonging, internalized judgment of their thoughts, actions, and persistent feelings of inadequacy or shame. It can be challenging to exist between two or more different cultural norms, values, traditions, languages, familial obligations, social dynamics, and more.
I am trained in Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Mindfulness.
As a therapist who was born and raised in Hong Kong, I have had the opportunity to work with diverse clients of all backgrounds. I understand the unique challenges faced by children of immigrants, particularly those identifying as Asian American or emerging adults. Asian Americans often struggle with establishing a sense of belonging, internalized judgment of their thoughts, actions, and persistent feelings of inadequacy or shame. It can be challenging to exist between two or more different cultural norms, values, traditions, languages, familial obligations, social dynamics, and more.
(714) 942-1032 View (714) 942-1032
Photo of Dana Season, PsyD, Psychologist
Dana Season
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy and Stress Reduction techniques to help you heal and evolve into your best self! At this time all sessions are virtual.
It can be so difficult to make that first step towards change, joy, gratitude, health, prosperity, fulfillment, love, deep connection and more. If you have made it to this page then you have already taken the first step. By gaining insight and understanding into what drives our decision-making process, we have the opportunity to create real, effective and long lasting change.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy and Stress Reduction techniques to help you heal and evolve into your best self! At this time all sessions are virtual.
It can be so difficult to make that first step towards change, joy, gratitude, health, prosperity, fulfillment, love, deep connection and more. If you have made it to this page then you have already taken the first step. By gaining insight and understanding into what drives our decision-making process, we have the opportunity to create real, effective and long lasting change.
(310) 400-5867 View (310) 400-5867
Photo of Amanda Levy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Levy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which means I have completed an intensified year-long training and supervision in my work with couples.
Hi! I'm glad you're here. Perhaps you are experiencing discomfort in one or many of your relationships, or are just feeling generally out of control or down. You don't have to navigate these difficult feelings alone, we can face them together. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to support you. Together, we can work to identify relationship or behavioral patterns that may have fallen into your blindspots and together face any negative feelings. Through this insight and self-discovery, we will explore your past safely together to make sense of your present and support you in building a fulfilling and meaningful future.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which means I have completed an intensified year-long training and supervision in my work with couples.
Hi! I'm glad you're here. Perhaps you are experiencing discomfort in one or many of your relationships, or are just feeling generally out of control or down. You don't have to navigate these difficult feelings alone, we can face them together. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to support you. Together, we can work to identify relationship or behavioral patterns that may have fallen into your blindspots and together face any negative feelings. Through this insight and self-discovery, we will explore your past safely together to make sense of your present and support you in building a fulfilling and meaningful future.
(310) 693-4053 View (310) 693-4053
Photo of Dr. DeAndrea Knight, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. DeAndrea Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
I offer attachment-based, emotionally focused, experiential, person-centered therapy for individuals and couples.
Hi! I am so happy you are here and I am even more excited to work with you. My goal is to assist you with healing from stress, worry, fear, sadness, regret, anger, guilt, self-neglect, trauma, and relationship issues. My goal is to help eliminate limiting thoughts and beliefs, increase emotional intelligence, and fully heal from difficult life circumstances. Most importantly, my goal is to help you best understand yourself and improve relationships, whether romantic, friendships, and/or family relationships. My goal is to help you heal and transcend past hurt and trauma in order to create the life you've always wanted.
I offer attachment-based, emotionally focused, experiential, person-centered therapy for individuals and couples.
Hi! I am so happy you are here and I am even more excited to work with you. My goal is to assist you with healing from stress, worry, fear, sadness, regret, anger, guilt, self-neglect, trauma, and relationship issues. My goal is to help eliminate limiting thoughts and beliefs, increase emotional intelligence, and fully heal from difficult life circumstances. Most importantly, my goal is to help you best understand yourself and improve relationships, whether romantic, friendships, and/or family relationships. My goal is to help you heal and transcend past hurt and trauma in order to create the life you've always wanted.
(310) 362-5146 View (310) 362-5146
Photo of Cynthia Henrie - Los Angeles Therapy Network, LMFT, BCETS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Los Angeles Therapy Network
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCETS
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90065
We offer talk therapy, EMDR, Sensorimotor/Somatic, TAT, EFT, art therapy, sandplay & other creative therapeutic approaches, group therapies and couples to enrich the therapeutic experience.
Do you feel like the weight of past experiences, secrets, or questions about your identity are holding you back from living a fulfilling life? Are you struggling with sexual trauma, childhood abuse, or other forms of trauma that have left you feeling overwhelmed & powerless? We're here to help. As a feminist therapist & board-certified expert in treating trauma & PTSD, I have extensive experience in helping people just like you regain control of their lives. Whether you're dealing with sexual, gender, cultural identity issues, or any form of abuse, I offer a safe and empowering space where you can work through your issues & heal.
We offer talk therapy, EMDR, Sensorimotor/Somatic, TAT, EFT, art therapy, sandplay & other creative therapeutic approaches, group therapies and couples to enrich the therapeutic experience.
Do you feel like the weight of past experiences, secrets, or questions about your identity are holding you back from living a fulfilling life? Are you struggling with sexual trauma, childhood abuse, or other forms of trauma that have left you feeling overwhelmed & powerless? We're here to help. As a feminist therapist & board-certified expert in treating trauma & PTSD, I have extensive experience in helping people just like you regain control of their lives. Whether you're dealing with sexual, gender, cultural identity issues, or any form of abuse, I offer a safe and empowering space where you can work through your issues & heal.
(323) 739-4987 View (323) 739-4987
Photo of Misha Henning, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Misha Henning
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90015
I am skilled in inner-child therapy, stemming from (EFT) emotional-focused therapy and Internal Family System.
Working with diverse population I have fostered a therapeutic relationship with my clients with the lens of Client Centered approach through empathic listening, and providing a compassionate safe space to process the unresolved trauma, which became the essential predictor of their success. I believe in empowering my clients to discover their strengths through mirroring unconditional positive regard, allowing clients to explore their vulnerability to understand themselves better.
I am skilled in inner-child therapy, stemming from (EFT) emotional-focused therapy and Internal Family System.
Working with diverse population I have fostered a therapeutic relationship with my clients with the lens of Client Centered approach through empathic listening, and providing a compassionate safe space to process the unresolved trauma, which became the essential predictor of their success. I believe in empowering my clients to discover their strengths through mirroring unconditional positive regard, allowing clients to explore their vulnerability to understand themselves better.
(925) 709-5275 View (925) 709-5275
Photo of Shawn Michael Howard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shawn Michael Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
I utilize parts work from an IFS perspective with individuals and Emotionally Focused Therapy with couples.
I work with people who are open to exploring why they sometimes react in ways that may get in the way of healthy relationships, and are motivated to gain insight into the many aspects of their personalities, in efforts to discover their authentic selves.
I utilize parts work from an IFS perspective with individuals and Emotionally Focused Therapy with couples.
I work with people who are open to exploring why they sometimes react in ways that may get in the way of healthy relationships, and are motivated to gain insight into the many aspects of their personalities, in efforts to discover their authentic selves.
(310) 504-5097 View (310) 504-5097
Photo of Ashley Batistick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Batistick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Waitlist for new clients
I am also training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples restore their emotional bonds, relieve distress, and deepen in intimacy with one another.
I believe the pathways to healing are through our intimate relationships with each other. But because few of us have experienced what it feels like to reach toward the soft embrace of another, and also be held, loved, and received just as we are, how we see and what we tell ourselves in response to life's struggles can become distorted. We develop false senses of self and of others; we wrestle with depression, anxiety, and obsessional thinking. We fall prey to addictions, and we struggle in our relationships, finding ourselves in patterns that bring conflict and disconnection.
I am also training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples restore their emotional bonds, relieve distress, and deepen in intimacy with one another.
I believe the pathways to healing are through our intimate relationships with each other. But because few of us have experienced what it feels like to reach toward the soft embrace of another, and also be held, loved, and received just as we are, how we see and what we tell ourselves in response to life's struggles can become distorted. We develop false senses of self and of others; we wrestle with depression, anxiety, and obsessional thinking. We fall prey to addictions, and we struggle in our relationships, finding ourselves in patterns that bring conflict and disconnection.
(747) 204-3283 View (747) 204-3283
Photo of Tom Henning, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tom Henning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, emotionally focused, somatic, and person-centered therapy.
You may feel stuck in a negative cycle: in a relationship, your career, or life in general. Perhaps you are dealing with trauma, or a difficult life transition such as divorce or bereavement, or you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. I'd like to help you make the changes you are looking for. I work with individuals, couples and families as they learn to cultivate healthy relationships and manage the stresses of modern-day life. Having raised a family while practicing law as a partner in a busy law firm, I have experienced the struggles and trade-offs in trying to maintain a work-family-personal life balance.
I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, emotionally focused, somatic, and person-centered therapy.
You may feel stuck in a negative cycle: in a relationship, your career, or life in general. Perhaps you are dealing with trauma, or a difficult life transition such as divorce or bereavement, or you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. I'd like to help you make the changes you are looking for. I work with individuals, couples and families as they learn to cultivate healthy relationships and manage the stresses of modern-day life. Having raised a family while practicing law as a partner in a busy law firm, I have experienced the struggles and trade-offs in trying to maintain a work-family-personal life balance.
(424) 500-8842 View (424) 500-8842
Photo of Zoë Kahn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zoë Kahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
I am trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) which I use with couples as well as EMDR for trauma.
Hi, I'm Zoë. I'm a licensed psychotherapist with over ten years of experience in mental health. I work with individuals and couples who are seeking a deeper relationship with themselves and with each other. I find that with acceptance of your true self, the more confident you will feel in communicating openly, making hard decisions, setting boundaries and making desired changes in your life. This holds true in our relationships as well. When we learn to accept truths about ourselves, we can then learn how to communicate these truths to a partner. I would love to help you find deeper connection with yourself and your loved ones.
I am trained in EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) which I use with couples as well as EMDR for trauma.
Hi, I'm Zoë. I'm a licensed psychotherapist with over ten years of experience in mental health. I work with individuals and couples who are seeking a deeper relationship with themselves and with each other. I find that with acceptance of your true self, the more confident you will feel in communicating openly, making hard decisions, setting boundaries and making desired changes in your life. This holds true in our relationships as well. When we learn to accept truths about ourselves, we can then learn how to communicate these truths to a partner. I would love to help you find deeper connection with yourself and your loved ones.
(323) 645-5972 View (323) 645-5972
Photo of Treza Mirakhor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Treza Mirakhor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
I really enjoy working with individuals and couples. I help clients become more aware of their body sensations and use that language to identify feelings and thoughts. This allows clients to connect with their full internal experience. Clients find this extremely helpful, especially those who have suffered traumatic incidents or long-term traumas. I am gentle and supportive in my work and use deep emotional exploration of past and present mixed with a body-based mindful approach to move clients toward healing. I am EFT informed when it comes to couples work. Couples find me grounding, fair, and supportive.
I really enjoy working with individuals and couples. I help clients become more aware of their body sensations and use that language to identify feelings and thoughts. This allows clients to connect with their full internal experience. Clients find this extremely helpful, especially those who have suffered traumatic incidents or long-term traumas. I am gentle and supportive in my work and use deep emotional exploration of past and present mixed with a body-based mindful approach to move clients toward healing. I am EFT informed when it comes to couples work. Couples find me grounding, fair, and supportive.
(310) 340-7170 View (310) 340-7170
Photo of Natasha Sweitzer, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Natasha Sweitzer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90064
I work holistically using mindfulness, somatic awareness, emotionally focused therapy, and internal family systems therapy.
You may be feeling disconnected, frustrated, and stuck in your relationships—both with self and others. Perhaps you've noticed how challenging it can be to break out of an unhelpful cycle, despite having every hope and intention of doing so. While these patterns may feel unavoidable, together we can get to the root of what’s happening and begin making changes that lead to the level of closeness, connection, and intimacy you so desperately want and deserve.
I work holistically using mindfulness, somatic awareness, emotionally focused therapy, and internal family systems therapy.
You may be feeling disconnected, frustrated, and stuck in your relationships—both with self and others. Perhaps you've noticed how challenging it can be to break out of an unhelpful cycle, despite having every hope and intention of doing so. While these patterns may feel unavoidable, together we can get to the root of what’s happening and begin making changes that lead to the level of closeness, connection, and intimacy you so desperately want and deserve.
(323) 991-7980 View (323) 991-7980
Photo of Bo Gabriel, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bo Gabriel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027
My approach is relational, informed by Gestalt, psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) principles.
The therapeutic relationship allows for awareness, healing, and growth. Utilizing empathy, humor, and gentle confrontation, I offer a safe space for clients to cope with painful times, challenging relationships, and issues with self. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in anxiety, relationship, identity, artistic, and grief/loss issues.
My approach is relational, informed by Gestalt, psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) principles.
The therapeutic relationship allows for awareness, healing, and growth. Utilizing empathy, humor, and gentle confrontation, I offer a safe space for clients to cope with painful times, challenging relationships, and issues with self. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in anxiety, relationship, identity, artistic, and grief/loss issues.
(323) 458-5074 View (323) 458-5074
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.