Emotionally Focused Therapists in Crystal River, FL

Photo of Janice Luiszer Lemieux - Jill Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crystal River, FL 34429
You’re courageous to take the first step on your wellness journey. Your emotional well-being is critical to your overall health and just as important as your physical well-being. Self-care is essential when dealing with life's challenges. Our therapeutic relationship is based on a supportive, nonjudgmental, and confidential alliance. When in crisis, there’s always an opportunity for tremendous growth, and my goal is to work closely with you to identify your strengths, help you achieve your goals, and heal from emotional distress.
You’re courageous to take the first step on your wellness journey. Your emotional well-being is critical to your overall health and just as important as your physical well-being. Self-care is essential when dealing with life's challenges. Our therapeutic relationship is based on a supportive, nonjudgmental, and confidential alliance. When in crisis, there’s always an opportunity for tremendous growth, and my goal is to work closely with you to identify your strengths, help you achieve your goals, and heal from emotional distress.
(352) 290-2791 View (352) 290-2791
Photo of Christal Rose Ward, LMFT, LMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christal Rose Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Crystal River, FL 34428
Hello there and welcome to my site! My name is Christal and I would love to welcome you to this platform. What is your story? Everyone has one, and it's the details of that story that has led you here today. My approach to therapy is simple. I help client's "Do Their Work." If you're ready for a breakthrough, and are ready to do your work, then I'm your counselor. It's as simple as that!
Hello there and welcome to my site! My name is Christal and I would love to welcome you to this platform. What is your story? Everyone has one, and it's the details of that story that has led you here today. My approach to therapy is simple. I help client's "Do Their Work." If you're ready for a breakthrough, and are ready to do your work, then I'm your counselor. It's as simple as that!
(352) 290-2177 View (352) 290-2177
Photo of Cynthia A Nuce - All Ways Mental Health Care, LLC, LCSWs, LMFTs, LMHCs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
All Ways Mental Health Care, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWs, LMFTs, LMHCs
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal River, FL 34428
Welcome to Florida's premier therapy group! We are a dedicated team of LCSWs, LMHCs, LMFTs who have been personally interviewed and background checked before ever seeing clients. We have male and female therapists available. We are available to all of Florida via Telehealth and in-person sessions in Crystal River (Citrus County) - nearby to Marion & Hernando counties. When you call, someone from our staff will do a brief interview and then match you with the perfect therapist. You can always read about each therapist on our website and decide for yourself; or perhaps someone has referred you to a particular person. It's All Ways!
Welcome to Florida's premier therapy group! We are a dedicated team of LCSWs, LMHCs, LMFTs who have been personally interviewed and background checked before ever seeing clients. We have male and female therapists available. We are available to all of Florida via Telehealth and in-person sessions in Crystal River (Citrus County) - nearby to Marion & Hernando counties. When you call, someone from our staff will do a brief interview and then match you with the perfect therapist. You can always read about each therapist on our website and decide for yourself; or perhaps someone has referred you to a particular person. It's All Ways!
(352) 309-1595 View (352) 309-1595
Photo of Ronnye M Drexler - Solution Focused Counseling and Consultation, LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Solution Focused Counseling and Consultation, LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal River, FL 34429  (Online Only)
I am accepting new patients. Has the Covid-19 caused difficulties in your life. Well we are here to help. Are you anxious, feeling stuck, or depressed? Do you have family conflict or parent-child issues? There is hope for a more peaceful productive life. It is my goal to provide a safe nonjudgmental place to empower people with the insight and skills needed to move forward. I have experience and success in helping people with various types of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, family problems, hard to handle teens. I am accepting new clients.
I am accepting new patients. Has the Covid-19 caused difficulties in your life. Well we are here to help. Are you anxious, feeling stuck, or depressed? Do you have family conflict or parent-child issues? There is hope for a more peaceful productive life. It is my goal to provide a safe nonjudgmental place to empower people with the insight and skills needed to move forward. I have experience and success in helping people with various types of anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, substance abuse, relationship issues, family problems, hard to handle teens. I am accepting new clients.
(352) 464-9620 View (352) 464-9620

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of David S Moss, LMHC, CTT, Counselor
David S Moss
Counselor, LMHC, CTT
Verified Verified
Lecanto, FL 34461
In addition, I have extensive training in treating sex addiction from Patrick Carnes and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy from Susan Johnson.
Are your relationships broken, and you are wondering, "How did it ever get to this point?" Or have you ever thought: "If people knew this about me, they would shun me?" What if you are anxious and/or depressed? If we are brutally honest, most of what hurts us comes down to this question: "Am I worthy enough to be loved; to be known?" I want you to know you are not alone! There is hope! Because here is the truth, most everyone is worthy to be loved and known, you just have to learn to believe it!
In addition, I have extensive training in treating sex addiction from Patrick Carnes and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy from Susan Johnson.
Are your relationships broken, and you are wondering, "How did it ever get to this point?" Or have you ever thought: "If people knew this about me, they would shun me?" What if you are anxious and/or depressed? If we are brutally honest, most of what hurts us comes down to this question: "Am I worthy enough to be loved; to be known?" I want you to know you are not alone! There is hope! Because here is the truth, most everyone is worthy to be loved and known, you just have to learn to believe it!
(352) 480-0009 View (352) 480-0009
Photo of Ruth Jean Jacques, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruth Jean Jacques
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Citrus Springs, FL 34433
Hello, my name is Ruthie Jacques I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a strong background in working with individuals, couples, and families struggling with a wealth of issues. I believe that you are the expert in your own life. I am simply a qualified friend who walks you through a myriad of issues. There is no such thing as an expert! I am here to help. I have been in the field for many years and have a wealth of experience and comfort working with family conflict, couple's issues, addiction, adolescents, and life transitions.
Hello, my name is Ruthie Jacques I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a strong background in working with individuals, couples, and families struggling with a wealth of issues. I believe that you are the expert in your own life. I am simply a qualified friend who walks you through a myriad of issues. There is no such thing as an expert! I am here to help. I have been in the field for many years and have a wealth of experience and comfort working with family conflict, couple's issues, addiction, adolescents, and life transitions.
(786) 982-8290 View (786) 982-8290
Photo of Teresa Armato, LMHC, Counselor
Teresa Armato
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lecanto, FL 34461
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Being from a family-of-origin with deep-rooted generational trauma, I am able to genuinely connect with my clients from a deeper level of trauma understanding. I work with First Responders and their families, as well as teens and young adults. I have successfully completed the Cultural Competency Training sponsored by the UCF Psychology Clinic Advanced Clinical Training Services. This certifies my competence in understanding the First Responder culture.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Being from a family-of-origin with deep-rooted generational trauma, I am able to genuinely connect with my clients from a deeper level of trauma understanding. I work with First Responders and their families, as well as teens and young adults. I have successfully completed the Cultural Competency Training sponsored by the UCF Psychology Clinic Advanced Clinical Training Services. This certifies my competence in understanding the First Responder culture.
(352) 605-9392 View (352) 605-9392
Photo of Sue-Jacqueline Spencer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue-Jacqueline Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beverly Hills, FL 34465  (Online Only)
Life is way too short to feel unhappy and dissatisfied. Change is possible, but you have to want to make those changes. I have been helping people solve problems for many, many years. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree in Social Work, a Masters Degree in Sociology, and I am also a Qualified Supervisor for social work interns. Seeking help is a courageous first step and you do not have to go through these difficulties alone.
Life is way too short to feel unhappy and dissatisfied. Change is possible, but you have to want to make those changes. I have been helping people solve problems for many, many years. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Masters Degree in Social Work, a Masters Degree in Sociology, and I am also a Qualified Supervisor for social work interns. Seeking help is a courageous first step and you do not have to go through these difficulties alone.
(352) 641-3799 View (352) 641-3799

Online Therapists

Photo of Christina Chewning - Christina Chewning, LMHC, CCTP
Christina Chewning
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Safety Harbor, FL 34695
Evidence-based techniques include Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy & (EFT), Brainspotting, and First Responder knowledge.
Dedicated to helping individuals and couples from all walks of life navigate through difficult challenges and life adjustments. Are you overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety, fear, stress, or grief? Are you struggling with communication and conflict resolution skills? I understand many struggles on a personal level and have extensive, relevant training to help. I utilize a variety of evidence-based counseling techniques to personalize treatment for the specific needs of each client. I offer both individual and couples counseling to support your journey towards healing and growth.
Evidence-based techniques include Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy & (EFT), Brainspotting, and First Responder knowledge.
Dedicated to helping individuals and couples from all walks of life navigate through difficult challenges and life adjustments. Are you overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety, fear, stress, or grief? Are you struggling with communication and conflict resolution skills? I understand many struggles on a personal level and have extensive, relevant training to help. I utilize a variety of evidence-based counseling techniques to personalize treatment for the specific needs of each client. I offer both individual and couples counseling to support your journey towards healing and growth.
(727) 263-0262 View (727) 263-0262
Photo of Denise Grubb, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Grubb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Johns, FL 32259  (Online Only)
I employ a blend of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Gottman Method, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Mind-Body approaches.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience in counseling couples, families, and individuals. My passion lies in guiding clients through their personal and relational challenges. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents, addressing issues related to family systems, mental health, and substance abuse.
I employ a blend of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Gottman Method, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Mind-Body approaches.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with extensive experience in counseling couples, families, and individuals. My passion lies in guiding clients through their personal and relational challenges. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents, addressing issues related to family systems, mental health, and substance abuse.
(904) 736-2524 View (904) 736-2524
Photo of Sarah Newcomer, MS, IMFT, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Newcomer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, IMFT, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33612  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, backed by science.
I only have day/before 4pm Mon-Fri availability at this time. Email me for a free consult. I'm licensed in the states of Ohio, Florida, and New Jersey. Go to my website to get a consult and learn more: Feeling lost in love and intimacy? Tired of arguments and bedroom boredom? I understand the ache of longing for connection amidst blocks. Let's rekindle that spark! As one of only five Ohio-based Marriage and Family therapists who are certified in sex therapy, I'm uniquely equipped to help you break free from stagnation and reignite passion.
I utilize evidence-based Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, backed by science.
I only have day/before 4pm Mon-Fri availability at this time. Email me for a free consult. I'm licensed in the states of Ohio, Florida, and New Jersey. Go to my website to get a consult and learn more: Feeling lost in love and intimacy? Tired of arguments and bedroom boredom? I understand the ache of longing for connection amidst blocks. Let's rekindle that spark! As one of only five Ohio-based Marriage and Family therapists who are certified in sex therapy, I'm uniquely equipped to help you break free from stagnation and reignite passion.
(614) 698-1226 View (614) 698-1226
Photo of Dr. Laura C Franco, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Laura C Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brandon, FL 33511
We only use scientifically based approaches like EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Discernment Counseling.
As the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice dedicated to offering a comprehensive range of services—such as individual and couple's psychotherapy, medication management, and Discernment Counseling—I am proud to lead a team of skilled and experienced clinicians. I often tell new clients that it takes immense courage to reach out and begin their journey toward better mental health. By deciding to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are taking a significant step in regaining control over your life. I commend you for starting this journey and for taking the time to find a clinician you feel you can trust
We only use scientifically based approaches like EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Discernment Counseling.
As the owner of Life Solutions Services, a practice dedicated to offering a comprehensive range of services—such as individual and couple's psychotherapy, medication management, and Discernment Counseling—I am proud to lead a team of skilled and experienced clinicians. I often tell new clients that it takes immense courage to reach out and begin their journey toward better mental health. By deciding to contact a therapist and schedule your first appointment, you are taking a significant step in regaining control over your life. I commend you for starting this journey and for taking the time to find a clinician you feel you can trust
(954) 280-1966 View (954) 280-1966
Photo of Rafa Gonzalez, LMHC, CSAT, QS-MHC, QS-MFT, Counselor
Rafa Gonzalez
Counselor, LMHC, CSAT, QS-MHC, QS-MFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Windermere, FL 34786  (Online Only)
I have been trained in Trauma Focused CBT, Self-Compassion in Psychotherapy, and Emotional Focused Therapy for couples (EFT).
My passion is to help individuals understand their experiences and struggles. Clients can expect a holistic integration of science and traditional approaches to promote a more balanced, vision-centered, and organized life. I enjoy helping clients produce a more productive life, reduce anxiety and depression, while helping them recognize and take control of their undesired hurts, habits, and hangups. As a Latino, I understand the acculturation process that immigrants experience and bring a balanced approach and insight.
I have been trained in Trauma Focused CBT, Self-Compassion in Psychotherapy, and Emotional Focused Therapy for couples (EFT).
My passion is to help individuals understand their experiences and struggles. Clients can expect a holistic integration of science and traditional approaches to promote a more balanced, vision-centered, and organized life. I enjoy helping clients produce a more productive life, reduce anxiety and depression, while helping them recognize and take control of their undesired hurts, habits, and hangups. As a Latino, I understand the acculturation process that immigrants experience and bring a balanced approach and insight.
(407) 753-4010 View (407) 753-4010
Photo of Jennifer Schaap, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Schaap
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tampa, FL 33609
For couples I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and for trauma I use ART, inner child, inner child components and mindfulness tools.
My goal is to help you love yourself for who you truly are. This can take the form of identifying who you truly are rather than attempting to fit into the boxes you feel others want you to be. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced trauma. And helping couples reconnect and understand each other deeper to stop the same arguments from occurring . I want to help you feel more confident navigating the world while feeling safe, less anxious, and able to stop those constant negative thoughts that can be paralyzing at times. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and other trauma modalities
For couples I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and for trauma I use ART, inner child, inner child components and mindfulness tools.
My goal is to help you love yourself for who you truly are. This can take the form of identifying who you truly are rather than attempting to fit into the boxes you feel others want you to be. I have a passion for working with individuals who have experienced trauma. And helping couples reconnect and understand each other deeper to stop the same arguments from occurring . I want to help you feel more confident navigating the world while feeling safe, less anxious, and able to stop those constant negative thoughts that can be paralyzing at times. I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and other trauma modalities
(727) 910-5324 View (727) 910-5324
Photo of Melanie Rosario, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie Rosario
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tampa, FL 33602
Using evidence-based methods like the Gottman and EFT techniques, I help improve relationships and foster personal growth.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, leaving you feeling stuck and uncertain about how to move forward. I am here to help you navigate these difficult moments. I assist and guide my clients through personal transitions, healing unresolved trauma, and overcoming the emotional complexities of unhealthy relationships. This includes addressing the profound impact of trauma, navigating new life stages such as pregnancy, postpartum, and divorce, as well as the complexities of co-parenting. Together, we will work on forming healthier relationships with both yourself and others, paving the way for emotional growth and fulfillment.
Using evidence-based methods like the Gottman and EFT techniques, I help improve relationships and foster personal growth.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, leaving you feeling stuck and uncertain about how to move forward. I am here to help you navigate these difficult moments. I assist and guide my clients through personal transitions, healing unresolved trauma, and overcoming the emotional complexities of unhealthy relationships. This includes addressing the profound impact of trauma, navigating new life stages such as pregnancy, postpartum, and divorce, as well as the complexities of co-parenting. Together, we will work on forming healthier relationships with both yourself and others, paving the way for emotional growth and fulfillment.
(321) 800-4227 View (321) 800-4227
Photo of Maisie Alicea, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maisie Alicea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Casselberry, FL 32707
), Gottman Method Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
I have a passion to help clients embark on their journey of self-discovery and growth, navigating the highs and lows of life with courage and resilience. Each session is a collaborative exploration, where you are empowered to voice your concerns, explore your emotions, and chart a path towards healing and wholeness. I provide a sense of warmth and empathy to every therapeutic interaction. With my genuine and compassionate approach, I create a safe space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued. I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth.
), Gottman Method Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
I have a passion to help clients embark on their journey of self-discovery and growth, navigating the highs and lows of life with courage and resilience. Each session is a collaborative exploration, where you are empowered to voice your concerns, explore your emotions, and chart a path towards healing and wholeness. I provide a sense of warmth and empathy to every therapeutic interaction. With my genuine and compassionate approach, I create a safe space where clients feel heard, understood, and valued. I am here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth.
(321) 342-1721 View (321) 342-1721
Photo of Maria Theresa Na Nieves - Enriched Life Counseling and Consulting, LLC, MS, RMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Enriched Life Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clermont, FL 34711
As a trained Emotionally Focused Therapist, I guide individuals, couples and families to build emotional connection that will promote safe and secure relationships.
Relationships are challenging. We are wounded by the people we love, but they are also the solution for healing our brokenness. I believe creating healthy relationships will promote security and safety within ourselves and with our loved ones. As your therapist, I will walk alongside on your journey to a connected relationships. Together, we will discover the sacred relationship within yourself and the people you love and care, so you can live a life to its fullest.
As a trained Emotionally Focused Therapist, I guide individuals, couples and families to build emotional connection that will promote safe and secure relationships.
Relationships are challenging. We are wounded by the people we love, but they are also the solution for healing our brokenness. I believe creating healthy relationships will promote security and safety within ourselves and with our loved ones. As your therapist, I will walk alongside on your journey to a connected relationships. Together, we will discover the sacred relationship within yourself and the people you love and care, so you can live a life to its fullest.
(352) 254-3895 View (352) 254-3895
Photo of April Eckhardt, LMFT, BC-TMH, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Eckhardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BC-TMH, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange Park, FL 32065  (Online Only)
***ONLINE - TELEHEALTH ONLY; Ability to see anyone in the state of Florida*** Life is hard. Sometimes daily activities can seem daunting with little hope of positive change. There are challenges and transitions in life that can lead to anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress. We may have an unfulfilling relationship where there is a desperate attempt for emotional connection, communication or healing from an infidelity. I utilize research-based therapies, such as EFT and EMDR, which can provide long lasting and effective change.
***ONLINE - TELEHEALTH ONLY; Ability to see anyone in the state of Florida*** Life is hard. Sometimes daily activities can seem daunting with little hope of positive change. There are challenges and transitions in life that can lead to anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress. We may have an unfulfilling relationship where there is a desperate attempt for emotional connection, communication or healing from an infidelity. I utilize research-based therapies, such as EFT and EMDR, which can provide long lasting and effective change.
(904) 409-3188 View (904) 409-3188
Photo of Jamie Gunning, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Gunning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orlando, FL 32803
I have specialized training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, Level 2 Emotional Freedom Technique, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy and Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I offer competent and compassionate care for individuals and couples who are seeking peace and contentment in their lives. I celebrate and support diversity. I offer a safe and healing space where people can feel free to explore what holds them back, keeps them stuck and disconnects them from themselves and the world around them. Clients who visit me experience compassionate care that addresses their issues from a holistic perspective of mind, body and soul.
I have specialized training in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, Level 2 Emotional Freedom Technique, Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy and Level 2 Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I offer competent and compassionate care for individuals and couples who are seeking peace and contentment in their lives. I celebrate and support diversity. I offer a safe and healing space where people can feel free to explore what holds them back, keeps them stuck and disconnects them from themselves and the world around them. Clients who visit me experience compassionate care that addresses their issues from a holistic perspective of mind, body and soul.
(407) 917-8590 View (407) 917-8590
Photo of Dorothy Milana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dorothy Milana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winter Garden, FL 34787  (Online Only)
I empower my clients to own their process and their emotions with Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Are you finding yourself in a rough patch? Does it feel like the world is caving in on you and you just can't find your way to the top? Do you feel weighted down by the stressors of daily life and need some extra support? Whether you're finding yourself face to face with the struggle of anxiety, depression or grief, I've got an empathic approach to help you get to the other side. Through my work with my clients, they are able to achieve results that will last and a sense of stability in their life that helps them to reach new levels of growth and success in all areas of their life.
I empower my clients to own their process and their emotions with Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Are you finding yourself in a rough patch? Does it feel like the world is caving in on you and you just can't find your way to the top? Do you feel weighted down by the stressors of daily life and need some extra support? Whether you're finding yourself face to face with the struggle of anxiety, depression or grief, I've got an empathic approach to help you get to the other side. Through my work with my clients, they are able to achieve results that will last and a sense of stability in their life that helps them to reach new levels of growth and success in all areas of their life.
(813) 519-6713 View (813) 519-6713

See more therapy options for Crystal River

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.