Emotionally Focused Therapists in Billings, MT

Photo of Dustin Duke, LCPC, LAC, Counselor
Dustin Duke
Counselor, LCPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Raising children and being a husband, I understand the significance of working with families and your relationship needs together or separate, utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman therapy approaches.
My name is Dustin and I am here to focus on your needs and assist in helping find ways to address relationship problems, mental health needs or substance use problems. As a licensed addiction counselor and licensed clinical professional counselor in Montana, my goal is to collaborate with you to find solutions to areas of needs that you have. Whether a small issue you would like to focus on or bigger problems that you would like assistance with, I hope that you consider gaining help and finding the counselor who fits best for you.
Raising children and being a husband, I understand the significance of working with families and your relationship needs together or separate, utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman therapy approaches.
My name is Dustin and I am here to focus on your needs and assist in helping find ways to address relationship problems, mental health needs or substance use problems. As a licensed addiction counselor and licensed clinical professional counselor in Montana, my goal is to collaborate with you to find solutions to areas of needs that you have. Whether a small issue you would like to focus on or bigger problems that you would like assistance with, I hope that you consider gaining help and finding the counselor who fits best for you.
(406) 720-8293 View (406) 720-8293
Photo of Grady Johnson, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grady Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy in work with families, couples, and individuals, focusing on how our attachment relationships shape the ways we interact with the world.
Welcome! I'm Grady, a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in couple and family therapy, premarital counseling, relationship/attachment issues, and play therapy. Beginning therapy is an exciting and potentially daunting experience. It's hard to know where to start when you've been feeling stuck. Know that you've made an excellent choice stepping up for yourself and your loved ones. In the therapy room, I aim to provide a welcoming, calming environment where my clients and I can collaborate to uncover questions, ideas and solutions that work for each family, couple, or individual's unique life situation.
I primarily utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy in work with families, couples, and individuals, focusing on how our attachment relationships shape the ways we interact with the world.
Welcome! I'm Grady, a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in couple and family therapy, premarital counseling, relationship/attachment issues, and play therapy. Beginning therapy is an exciting and potentially daunting experience. It's hard to know where to start when you've been feeling stuck. Know that you've made an excellent choice stepping up for yourself and your loved ones. In the therapy room, I aim to provide a welcoming, calming environment where my clients and I can collaborate to uncover questions, ideas and solutions that work for each family, couple, or individual's unique life situation.
(406) 709-8075 View (406) 709-8075
Photo of Teri Jackson, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Teri Jackson
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
During counseling, I use complementary and highly effective cognitive behavioral and emotionally focused techniques to meet the individual needs of my clients.
We are born whole with all we need to live the life of our dreams. Our experiences and interactions with others shape our beliefs about ourselves and the world around us often overshadowing our personal truth and purpose. With support, we can uncover our truth, find out purpose, and return our whole selves. Beginning with your first session, we will explore where you are, how you got here, and plan to achieve the life you want. You will leave with renewed hope and strength. Contact me so we can schedule a time for you to begin your journey.
During counseling, I use complementary and highly effective cognitive behavioral and emotionally focused techniques to meet the individual needs of my clients.
We are born whole with all we need to live the life of our dreams. Our experiences and interactions with others shape our beliefs about ourselves and the world around us often overshadowing our personal truth and purpose. With support, we can uncover our truth, find out purpose, and return our whole selves. Beginning with your first session, we will explore where you are, how you got here, and plan to achieve the life you want. You will leave with renewed hope and strength. Contact me so we can schedule a time for you to begin your journey.
(406) 510-3683 View (406) 510-3683
Photo of Lisa H Hjelmstad - Wellness Possebilities, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, MAC, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wellness Possebilities
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I am a trained EMDR clinician and in couples work use Emotionally Focused and Gottman Methods of treatment.
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
I am a trained EMDR clinician and in couples work use Emotionally Focused and Gottman Methods of treatment.
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
(406) 578-0646 View (406) 578-0646
Photo of Angela Matta - Angela Matta, LCSW, LAC, PC, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Matta, LCSW, LAC, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EFT, Play Therapy and EMDR.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who enjoys working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their life. I use a client centered approach to help clients feel comfortable enough to be able to work through their issues. I also use a strength based approach when working with clients, to help clients find the strength within themselves to make the positive changes they desire. I strongly believe that the relationship between client and counselor is vital to bring about positive change.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, EFT, Play Therapy and EMDR.
I am an experienced psychotherapist who enjoys working with clients who are motivated to make positive changes in their life. I use a client centered approach to help clients feel comfortable enough to be able to work through their issues. I also use a strength based approach when working with clients, to help clients find the strength within themselves to make the positive changes they desire. I strongly believe that the relationship between client and counselor is vital to bring about positive change.
(406) 578-5042 View (406) 578-5042
Photo of Ashley Novakovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Novakovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
I’m an EMDR and EFT trained therapist committed to helping you overcome the roadblocks in your life. My work focuses on understanding your experience and creating a safe environment to challenge and change patterns. I come to the therapy relationship with a humanistic approach and a grounding in attachment theory. I believe therapy is a collaborative process to meet your goals.
I’m an EMDR and EFT trained therapist committed to helping you overcome the roadblocks in your life. My work focuses on understanding your experience and creating a safe environment to challenge and change patterns. I come to the therapy relationship with a humanistic approach and a grounding in attachment theory. I believe therapy is a collaborative process to meet your goals.
(406) 412-6869 View (406) 412-6869
Photo of Cynthia Vlahos Palmer, MSC , LCPC , NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Vlahos Palmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSC , LCPC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I primarily use EMDR, drawing from Mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are past pains and future worries affecting your ability to enjoy the present? Struggling to find joy and meaning in life? My passion is to empower you to heal from past wounds, grow authentically, thrive in relationships, and experience resilient peace. In a safe, supportive atmosphere, I use a psychobiological approach, collaborating to restore your instinctual resilience. With a trauma-informed and holistic perspective, I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I primarily use EMDR, drawing from Mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are past pains and future worries affecting your ability to enjoy the present? Struggling to find joy and meaning in life? My passion is to empower you to heal from past wounds, grow authentically, thrive in relationships, and experience resilient peace. In a safe, supportive atmosphere, I use a psychobiological approach, collaborating to restore your instinctual resilience. With a trauma-informed and holistic perspective, I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
(406) 272-7935 View (406) 272-7935
Photo of Charles J. Habeck - Charles J. Habeck Psy.D., LCPC, LAC,PC, PsyD, LCPC, LAC, MAC, Counselor
Charles J. Habeck Psy.D., LCPC, LAC,PC
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LAC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
The struggle is real- for all of us. I am committed to helping a person grow toward improved insights and coping skills to resolve their problems and related emotions, in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. My goal is for one to learn more about themselves and to function at a higher level in the whole-person dimensions of their life. Whether one is motivated for short-term and situational concerns, or more internally motivated for deeper understanding of self and life-stage fulfillment, the counselor/ client relationship remains paramount as an agent of change.
The struggle is real- for all of us. I am committed to helping a person grow toward improved insights and coping skills to resolve their problems and related emotions, in a non-judgmental and supportive manner. My goal is for one to learn more about themselves and to function at a higher level in the whole-person dimensions of their life. Whether one is motivated for short-term and situational concerns, or more internally motivated for deeper understanding of self and life-stage fulfillment, the counselor/ client relationship remains paramount as an agent of change.
(406) 415-2010 View (406) 415-2010
Photo of Rachael Maher, MS, LCPC, LMFT, Counselor
Rachael Maher
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
We use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), one of the most powerful types of relationship therapy for long-term success, in our work with our clients.
Are you struggling to feel heard in your relationship? Are you feeling disconnected and lonely? Does it seem as though no matter how hard you try, you can never get it right? Do you find yourself arguing instead of conversing and frustrated that the conflict goes nowhere? If the answer the any of these questions is a loud and resounding YES, you might benefit from counseling at Little Bear Counseling. I and my highly qualified team especially enjoy working with challenging relationship dynamics. We have recently expanded our team and have NEXT Day openings for individuals, couples and families.
We use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), one of the most powerful types of relationship therapy for long-term success, in our work with our clients.
Are you struggling to feel heard in your relationship? Are you feeling disconnected and lonely? Does it seem as though no matter how hard you try, you can never get it right? Do you find yourself arguing instead of conversing and frustrated that the conflict goes nowhere? If the answer the any of these questions is a loud and resounding YES, you might benefit from counseling at Little Bear Counseling. I and my highly qualified team especially enjoy working with challenging relationship dynamics. We have recently expanded our team and have NEXT Day openings for individuals, couples and families.
(406) 356-6351 View (406) 356-6351
Photo of Susan 'sunny' Mavor - Sunny Mavor Online Counseling, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Sunny Mavor Online Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have been in practice since 2005, and have developed a specialty in Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals, a powerful and effective method for healing yourself and your relationship in the midst of challenges.
Hi - Welcome to ONLINE counseling. I have a unique practice that supports people from all over Montana --- after 15 years of seeing couples and individuals in person in my Bozeman office, I'm now working exclusively with individuals online. I have had the honor of helping hundreds of Montanans conquer their depression or anxiety, regain their confidence, improve their communication skills, renew their relationship by working on themselves ... and to get back to being the person they want to be. I think you'll be surprised at how comfortable online therapy feels - it's just like sitting in the same room.
I have been in practice since 2005, and have developed a specialty in Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals, a powerful and effective method for healing yourself and your relationship in the midst of challenges.
Hi - Welcome to ONLINE counseling. I have a unique practice that supports people from all over Montana --- after 15 years of seeing couples and individuals in person in my Bozeman office, I'm now working exclusively with individuals online. I have had the honor of helping hundreds of Montanans conquer their depression or anxiety, regain their confidence, improve their communication skills, renew their relationship by working on themselves ... and to get back to being the person they want to be. I think you'll be surprised at how comfortable online therapy feels - it's just like sitting in the same room.
(406) 306-1415 View (406) 306-1415
Photo of Becca Barcom, MA, PCLC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Becca Barcom
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PCLC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
I have completed specialty trainings in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Level I, EFT Couples Counseling Externship, and Attachment Focused EMDR.
We as humans experience life’s highest highs, lowest lows, and everything in between. I work collaboratively with clients to make meaning out of whatever life sends your way- my clients and I create a trusting relationship to explore any emotions, thoughts, or sensations that arise. I believe everyone has the capability to build resilience and make meaning of the world and our place in it. By drawing on the connection with ourselves, others, and the natural world, everyone can experience healing. No matter what you've faced, we will work together towards your goals and personal growth.
I have completed specialty trainings in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Level I, EFT Couples Counseling Externship, and Attachment Focused EMDR.
We as humans experience life’s highest highs, lowest lows, and everything in between. I work collaboratively with clients to make meaning out of whatever life sends your way- my clients and I create a trusting relationship to explore any emotions, thoughts, or sensations that arise. I believe everyone has the capability to build resilience and make meaning of the world and our place in it. By drawing on the connection with ourselves, others, and the natural world, everyone can experience healing. No matter what you've faced, we will work together towards your goals and personal growth.
(406) 732-8350 View (406) 732-8350
Photo of Christy Franklin - Christy Franklin Professional Services, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP, Counselor
Christy Franklin Professional Services
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Looking for a therapist can be difficult, finding one that is good fit can be even harder. I am from the Flathead Valley, I grew up here and I am as real as it gets. If you are looking for a therapist that "gets it" and will "get you," you have come to the right place. Having difficulty in your relationships? I am an Emotionally Focused trained therapist, the gold standard when treating marriage, couples and family, and relationships in general. Experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, racing thoughts, PTSD, depression, childhood and adulthood trauma, perinatal and postpartum issues, the loss of a loved one or a pet? I can help!
Looking for a therapist can be difficult, finding one that is good fit can be even harder. I am from the Flathead Valley, I grew up here and I am as real as it gets. If you are looking for a therapist that "gets it" and will "get you," you have come to the right place. Having difficulty in your relationships? I am an Emotionally Focused trained therapist, the gold standard when treating marriage, couples and family, and relationships in general. Experiencing anxiety, panic attacks, racing thoughts, PTSD, depression, childhood and adulthood trauma, perinatal and postpartum issues, the loss of a loved one or a pet? I can help!
(406) 407-9479 View (406) 407-9479
Photo of Susan Jedd, LCPC, Counselor
Susan Jedd
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101  (Online Only)
I am trained as a grief counselor and also in EMDR. I also work with couples as an EFT therapist and have a strong belief that relationship is at the center of our well-being; whether it's our relationship with others or with ourselves and am versed in Internal Family Systems Therapy. I also belong to team of practitioners who meet weekly to consider the needs of our clients. We offer an excellent and holistic approach for your care.
I am trained as a grief counselor and also in EMDR. I also work with couples as an EFT therapist and have a strong belief that relationship is at the center of our well-being; whether it's our relationship with others or with ourselves and am versed in Internal Family Systems Therapy. I also belong to team of practitioners who meet weekly to consider the needs of our clients. We offer an excellent and holistic approach for your care.
(406) 630-5390 View (406) 630-5390
Photo of Somer Radvanyi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Somer Radvanyi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I use a client-centered hybrid approach drawing from models/skills such as solution focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, structural therapy, DBT, emotionally focused, and others.
I'm licensed in WA, ID & MT. I'm an AAMFT Supervisor Candidate. Burdens of trauma can impact your love life, work life, friendships, and how you see yourself in the world. Each person is doing the very best they can. Within you are strengths I want to build on. Working together we will come up with strategies tailored to you. I work with military families, couples, adults, teens, and foster youth with various challenges (ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, social difficulties, etc.) I provide private pay for family/reunification therapy.
I use a client-centered hybrid approach drawing from models/skills such as solution focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, structural therapy, DBT, emotionally focused, and others.
I'm licensed in WA, ID & MT. I'm an AAMFT Supervisor Candidate. Burdens of trauma can impact your love life, work life, friendships, and how you see yourself in the world. Each person is doing the very best they can. Within you are strengths I want to build on. Working together we will come up with strategies tailored to you. I work with military families, couples, adults, teens, and foster youth with various challenges (ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, social difficulties, etc.) I provide private pay for family/reunification therapy.
(509) 992-8276 View (509) 992-8276
Photo of Stephen J Burrows, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephen J Burrows
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
I thoroughly enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. My main emphasis is on a strong therapeutic alliance. I find this to be the most important aspect of my practice, as well as, the most fulfilling. I am a huge advocate of finding the right therapist. I believe this makes a significant difference in not only the therapeutic relationship, but also in therapeutic outcomes. I consider this environment best developed on an individual basis, with attention given to specific client driven goals and outcomes. Hence, I believe in the aspect of unconditional positive regard.
I thoroughly enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. My main emphasis is on a strong therapeutic alliance. I find this to be the most important aspect of my practice, as well as, the most fulfilling. I am a huge advocate of finding the right therapist. I believe this makes a significant difference in not only the therapeutic relationship, but also in therapeutic outcomes. I consider this environment best developed on an individual basis, with attention given to specific client driven goals and outcomes. Hence, I believe in the aspect of unconditional positive regard.
(406) 926-0406 View (406) 926-0406
Photo of Shawnet Kelly, MS, LCPC, LAC, Counselor
Shawnet Kelly
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Addictions Counselor. The time that you spend in your therapy session with me is your time to work on the issues that you are dealing with along with my support. My part in your journey is to help you with goals for therapy and provide you with the tools that you can utilize outside of therapy so that you can continue to learn and grow.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Licensed Addictions Counselor. The time that you spend in your therapy session with me is your time to work on the issues that you are dealing with along with my support. My part in your journey is to help you with goals for therapy and provide you with the tools that you can utilize outside of therapy so that you can continue to learn and grow.
(406) 719-7674 View (406) 719-7674
Photo of Dr. Michael J Kurtz, PsyD, MSCP, Psychologist
Dr. Michael J Kurtz
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
My focus is above all to offer therapy which empowers individuals. This starts with genuinely respecting your autonomy and right to choose your own path. Whether you're getting by "good enough" in your life but still find yourself discontent and aren't sure why, or you're dealing with mental illness (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma) which is beginning to unravel your relationships and your life. You may seek short-term symptom relief, and this will always be respected, on the other hand, you may choose to dive deeper to clarify and work on the root of a reoccurring problem. Either way, I'm here to help.
My focus is above all to offer therapy which empowers individuals. This starts with genuinely respecting your autonomy and right to choose your own path. Whether you're getting by "good enough" in your life but still find yourself discontent and aren't sure why, or you're dealing with mental illness (e.g., anxiety, depression, trauma) which is beginning to unravel your relationships and your life. You may seek short-term symptom relief, and this will always be respected, on the other hand, you may choose to dive deeper to clarify and work on the root of a reoccurring problem. Either way, I'm here to help.
(406) 626-8704 View (406) 626-8704
Photo of Kirsten Pett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kirsten Pett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
You are the only expert in *your* life. As Carl Rogers did, I believe that all people have the ability to bring about meaningful change in their lives, and a my role is to guide you to a greater understanding of that power, while gaining new, positive skills. Level UP! I continually strive to demonstrate empathy and unconditional positive regard. Life is hard enough as it is - getting help shouldn't be just another stressor on top of your never-ending To Do List. Stop listening to that voice in your head that tells you that you aren't good enough/strong enough/smart enough/busy enough/making enough. That voice is wrong.
You are the only expert in *your* life. As Carl Rogers did, I believe that all people have the ability to bring about meaningful change in their lives, and a my role is to guide you to a greater understanding of that power, while gaining new, positive skills. Level UP! I continually strive to demonstrate empathy and unconditional positive regard. Life is hard enough as it is - getting help shouldn't be just another stressor on top of your never-ending To Do List. Stop listening to that voice in your head that tells you that you aren't good enough/strong enough/smart enough/busy enough/making enough. That voice is wrong.
(406) 384-5788 View (406) 384-5788
Photo of Lindsey Suchy, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Lindsey Suchy
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Are you seeking a space to be heard? To express without fear of judgment? A neutral party to listen and reflect? In my experience, listening is a skill that is not easily mastered. I offer the kind of listening your friends and your family cannot provide, as they may be too close to you and too close to the situation to be able to hear and see things clearly. Counseling provides a space for you to be seen, and to learn to embrace your unique perception. You need to be heard to understand how you think, and to be able to see how you are perceived by others. This will help you find harmony in your relationships.
Are you seeking a space to be heard? To express without fear of judgment? A neutral party to listen and reflect? In my experience, listening is a skill that is not easily mastered. I offer the kind of listening your friends and your family cannot provide, as they may be too close to you and too close to the situation to be able to hear and see things clearly. Counseling provides a space for you to be seen, and to learn to embrace your unique perception. You need to be heard to understand how you think, and to be able to see how you are perceived by others. This will help you find harmony in your relationships.
(406) 313-8388 View (406) 313-8388
Photo of Jesse J Harris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse J Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Do you find that life's struggles have you down more than usual? Hi, I am the owner of Sandstone Counseling Services, LLC. I have a Master's in Social Work, and am a licensed clinician. Throughout schooling and work in the field, I have worked with everyone from hospice patients, "SED" (seriously emotionally disturbed) youth, schools, foster children, adults, and families. I have also done an abundance of custody work in Yellowstone County over the past 20+ years. I work with a variety of individuals ages 10 and up. I believe in meeting people where they are and working our way through whatever brings them to my office.
Do you find that life's struggles have you down more than usual? Hi, I am the owner of Sandstone Counseling Services, LLC. I have a Master's in Social Work, and am a licensed clinician. Throughout schooling and work in the field, I have worked with everyone from hospice patients, "SED" (seriously emotionally disturbed) youth, schools, foster children, adults, and families. I have also done an abundance of custody work in Yellowstone County over the past 20+ years. I work with a variety of individuals ages 10 and up. I believe in meeting people where they are and working our way through whatever brings them to my office.
(406) 662-0676 View (406) 662-0676
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Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

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

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

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

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

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

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

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