Emotionally Focused Therapists in Sarasota, FL

Photo of Dr. Johana Kuemerle-Pinillos, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Johana Kuemerle-Pinillos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Waitlist for new clients
I use evidence models such as EFT and EMDR to support your journey.
Most people go into relationships with big hopes, a vision of a good future, and the desire to have a fulfilling life. However, somewhere in the process difficulties start to arise, and this hope soon becomes frustration and disappointment. You start to feel discouraged, and might begin to have thoughts of ending the relationship because it is all too much. Whether you are in a new relationship, or you have been together for decades, you are not alone. Every couple experiences a range of difficulties, you might be struggling with communication, constant arguing, or even infidelity. Regardless, I can help you, FREE 15 min consult!
I use evidence models such as EFT and EMDR to support your journey.
Most people go into relationships with big hopes, a vision of a good future, and the desire to have a fulfilling life. However, somewhere in the process difficulties start to arise, and this hope soon becomes frustration and disappointment. You start to feel discouraged, and might begin to have thoughts of ending the relationship because it is all too much. Whether you are in a new relationship, or you have been together for decades, you are not alone. Every couple experiences a range of difficulties, you might be struggling with communication, constant arguing, or even infidelity. Regardless, I can help you, FREE 15 min consult!
(941) 231-5153 View (941) 231-5153
Photo of Julie Marchman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Marchman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34235  (Online Only)
I also have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), an attachment theory approach especially effective in healing couple relationships and strengthening parent-child relationships.
Pursuing therapy is a wise move when life is tough. It's good to reach out for help when we are stuck. I use a gentle and compassionate approach to effectively help individuals, couples, and families overcome their hurdles. I will seek to earn your trust through authenticity and acceptance. I am a Christian who helps people of all faiths and backgrounds. I offer teletherapy to clients in both Florida and Kentucky.
I also have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), an attachment theory approach especially effective in healing couple relationships and strengthening parent-child relationships.
Pursuing therapy is a wise move when life is tough. It's good to reach out for help when we are stuck. I use a gentle and compassionate approach to effectively help individuals, couples, and families overcome their hurdles. I will seek to earn your trust through authenticity and acceptance. I am a Christian who helps people of all faiths and backgrounds. I offer teletherapy to clients in both Florida and Kentucky.
(941) 254-2675 View (941) 254-2675
Photo of Linda B Domenitz, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda B Domenitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231  (Online Only)
I am certified as an Internal Family Systems therapist and have extensive background in Gestalt Therapy, Focusing, Attachment and Trauma and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile.. How do you know that the unknown person you are reaching will be able to be attuned to you in the ways that you need? It's hard to discern this just from reading someone's profile. Most of my clients feel they know me before they reach out because they are referred by current or former clients. I like that but what about individuals who don't have the benefit of that pre-service information? I usually suggest potential clients schedule a FREE meeting for this reason. I hope you will consider doing exactly that.
I am certified as an Internal Family Systems therapist and have extensive background in Gestalt Therapy, Focusing, Attachment and Trauma and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Thank you for visiting my profile.. How do you know that the unknown person you are reaching will be able to be attuned to you in the ways that you need? It's hard to discern this just from reading someone's profile. Most of my clients feel they know me before they reach out because they are referred by current or former clients. I like that but what about individuals who don't have the benefit of that pre-service information? I usually suggest potential clients schedule a FREE meeting for this reason. I hope you will consider doing exactly that.
(941) 206-0718 View (941) 206-0718
Photo of Callie B Parsons, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Callie B Parsons
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34232  (Online Only)
I utilize a narrative approach along with an emotionally focused approach to therapy.
When an individual or a couple chooses to enter into a therapeutic relationship, they are in essence choosing courage. Willingly putting one’s self in a vulnerable state of self-reflection and honesty is a hard thing for most people. But when this happens in a safe and judgement-free environment, wholeness and freedom can ensue.
I utilize a narrative approach along with an emotionally focused approach to therapy.
When an individual or a couple chooses to enter into a therapeutic relationship, they are in essence choosing courage. Willingly putting one’s self in a vulnerable state of self-reflection and honesty is a hard thing for most people. But when this happens in a safe and judgement-free environment, wholeness and freedom can ensue.
(941) 205-7370 View (941) 205-7370
Photo of Lauren Consul, LMFT, CST, JD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Consul
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, JD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
I also have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy and love working with individuals, couples, and polycules.
Sex related challenges, infidelity, non-monogamy, and attachment issues. These are my expertise and what I'm here to help you with. Maybe you're struggling with mismatched libidos, sexual dysfunction or pain, or a non-existent sex life. Perhaps you discovered your partner was unfaithful and have no clue how, or if, you can recover. You may be wanting to explore sexually or need help navigating some form of non-monogamy. Whatever it is; you are not alone. I'm here to support and guide you. You deserve to have satisfying, secure, and connected experiences in your relationships and sex. Let's work to make that happen.
I also have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy and love working with individuals, couples, and polycules.
Sex related challenges, infidelity, non-monogamy, and attachment issues. These are my expertise and what I'm here to help you with. Maybe you're struggling with mismatched libidos, sexual dysfunction or pain, or a non-existent sex life. Perhaps you discovered your partner was unfaithful and have no clue how, or if, you can recover. You may be wanting to explore sexually or need help navigating some form of non-monogamy. Whatever it is; you are not alone. I'm here to support and guide you. You deserve to have satisfying, secure, and connected experiences in your relationships and sex. Let's work to make that happen.
(786) 947-5496 View (786) 947-5496
Photo of Dr. Johana Kuemerle-Pinillos, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Johana Kuemerle-Pinillos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34233  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use evidence models such as EFT and EMDR to support your journey.
Most people go into relationships with big hopes, a vision of a good future, and the desire to have a fulfilling life. However, somewhere in the process difficulties start to arise, and this hope soon becomes frustration and disappointment. You start to feel discouraged, and might begin to have thoughts of ending the relationship because it is all too much. Whether you are in a new relationship, or you have been together for decades, you are not alone. Every couple experiences a range of difficulties, you might be struggling with communication, constant arguing, or even infidelity. Regardless, I can help you. FREE 15 min consult!
I use evidence models such as EFT and EMDR to support your journey.
Most people go into relationships with big hopes, a vision of a good future, and the desire to have a fulfilling life. However, somewhere in the process difficulties start to arise, and this hope soon becomes frustration and disappointment. You start to feel discouraged, and might begin to have thoughts of ending the relationship because it is all too much. Whether you are in a new relationship, or you have been together for decades, you are not alone. Every couple experiences a range of difficulties, you might be struggling with communication, constant arguing, or even infidelity. Regardless, I can help you. FREE 15 min consult!
(860) 901-0327 View (860) 901-0327
Photo of Eleni Paris - Eleni Paris, LMFT, LLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eleni Paris, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
I work from a strength-based, family systems approach specializing in Solution-Oriented, Emotionally Focused, and Narrative Therapies, implementing essential communication techniques.
Regain hope, build trust, and experience that well-deserved growth within your most important relationships - and for yourself. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families rebuild their relationships and re-establish what they lost from various hardships. Healthy connections to our loved ones are vital to our well-being, and you deserve to heal, find solutions, and experience growth within them. Whether it is with your spouse, your parents, your children, or even with yourself...we all need and desire that peace and fulfillment.
I work from a strength-based, family systems approach specializing in Solution-Oriented, Emotionally Focused, and Narrative Therapies, implementing essential communication techniques.
Regain hope, build trust, and experience that well-deserved growth within your most important relationships - and for yourself. I specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families rebuild their relationships and re-establish what they lost from various hardships. Healthy connections to our loved ones are vital to our well-being, and you deserve to heal, find solutions, and experience growth within them. Whether it is with your spouse, your parents, your children, or even with yourself...we all need and desire that peace and fulfillment.
(727) 910-5906 View (727) 910-5906
Photo of Dr. Sharon Diane Forrest, EdD, MBA, BA, LMFT, PCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Sharon Diane Forrest
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, MBA, BA, LMFT, PCC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
Are you overwhelmed by depression, guilt, anger, fear, alcoholism, drug addition, grief, or heartbreak and feel out of control of your life or relationships? My practice focuses on the individual, family, and marriage in a Christ-centered counseling setting. With a Doctorate in Education-Pastoral Counseling/ MBA in Business, I provide a unique form of therapy addressing your spiritual and professional needs collectively. I seek to assist you in re-shaping the circumstances that have temporarily gotten you off track. You may have experienced a setback but working together we can make this a SET UP for something GREAT!
Are you overwhelmed by depression, guilt, anger, fear, alcoholism, drug addition, grief, or heartbreak and feel out of control of your life or relationships? My practice focuses on the individual, family, and marriage in a Christ-centered counseling setting. With a Doctorate in Education-Pastoral Counseling/ MBA in Business, I provide a unique form of therapy addressing your spiritual and professional needs collectively. I seek to assist you in re-shaping the circumstances that have temporarily gotten you off track. You may have experienced a setback but working together we can make this a SET UP for something GREAT!
(941) 803-1243 View (941) 803-1243
Photo of Amanda Michelle Burns, CAP, ICADC, CTRP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Amanda Michelle Burns
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAP, ICADC, CTRP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
Hello! My name is Amanda Burns. I am an Internationally Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor. I am also recognized as a Certified Addiction Professional from the Florida Board and received certification from Florida State in Trauma and Resiliency. I graduated from University of South Florida Summa Cum Laude in 2018 with a Bachelors in Psychology. I am located in Sarasota Florida and currently work within Sarasota Addiction Specialists.
Hello! My name is Amanda Burns. I am an Internationally Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor. I am also recognized as a Certified Addiction Professional from the Florida Board and received certification from Florida State in Trauma and Resiliency. I graduated from University of South Florida Summa Cum Laude in 2018 with a Bachelors in Psychology. I am located in Sarasota Florida and currently work within Sarasota Addiction Specialists.
(941) 269-2143 View (941) 269-2143
Photo of Megan Livesey, MS, LMHC
Megan Livesey
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety or stress and is struggling to balance personal life and work. They need practical strategies to manage their emotions, gain self-awareness, and improve their overall well-being. Their goals include reducing negative emotions, building confidence, and fostering healthier relationships. They want these changes to achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life where they feel in control, empowered, and capable of thriving in their personal and professional lives.
My ideal client is someone who feels overwhelmed by anxiety or stress and is struggling to balance personal life and work. They need practical strategies to manage their emotions, gain self-awareness, and improve their overall well-being. Their goals include reducing negative emotions, building confidence, and fostering healthier relationships. They want these changes to achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life where they feel in control, empowered, and capable of thriving in their personal and professional lives.
(941) 239-2181 View (941) 239-2181
Photo of Meredith Malak Master Of Science, MS
Meredith Malak Master Of Science
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
Compassionate Counseling for Life's Challenges Welcome to my profile on Psychology Today! With over 15 years of experience in the field of psychology, I am dedicated to providing compassionate counseling to adults and families as they navigate the complexities of life's obstacles. My mission is to support individuals on their journey towards healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. Specialties: I specialize in assisting individuals who are grappling with a range of mental health challenges.
Compassionate Counseling for Life's Challenges Welcome to my profile on Psychology Today! With over 15 years of experience in the field of psychology, I am dedicated to providing compassionate counseling to adults and families as they navigate the complexities of life's obstacles. My mission is to support individuals on their journey towards healing, self-discovery, and personal growth. Specialties: I specialize in assisting individuals who are grappling with a range of mental health challenges.
(941) 909-3633 View (941) 909-3633
Photo of Colleen P Panunzio, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Colleen P Panunzio
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
Thank you for checking out my profile! I welcome any questions that you may have prior to scheduling. I'm accepting new patients and I have been in private practice for 24 years. I offer a direct and genuine approach in a supportive environment to help people identify their unhealthy patterns of behaviors that contribute to the difficulties in our lives. I believe in a person's ability to change. My goal is to provide the most effective therapeutic services in a safe, caring, and empathetic environment. I believe that while an understanding of the past is essential, positive change occurs in the present.
Thank you for checking out my profile! I welcome any questions that you may have prior to scheduling. I'm accepting new patients and I have been in private practice for 24 years. I offer a direct and genuine approach in a supportive environment to help people identify their unhealthy patterns of behaviors that contribute to the difficulties in our lives. I believe in a person's ability to change. My goal is to provide the most effective therapeutic services in a safe, caring, and empathetic environment. I believe that while an understanding of the past is essential, positive change occurs in the present.
(941) 220-0361 View (941) 220-0361
Photo of Jessica Barbalato, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Barbalato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34243  (Online Only)
My name is Jessica Barbalato and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years experience in the field. I received my Master of Social Work from Fordham University and have experience working with diverse populations in various settings. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues/life transitions, trauma as well as identity issues. My belief is that strong relationship between client and therapist can be the catalyst for healing, change and growth. As a therapist, I would describe myself as warm, empathetic, charismatic, funny and non-judgemental. I conduct all sessions via teletherapy.
My name is Jessica Barbalato and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years experience in the field. I received my Master of Social Work from Fordham University and have experience working with diverse populations in various settings. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, adjustment issues/life transitions, trauma as well as identity issues. My belief is that strong relationship between client and therapist can be the catalyst for healing, change and growth. As a therapist, I would describe myself as warm, empathetic, charismatic, funny and non-judgemental. I conduct all sessions via teletherapy.
(941) 205-7322 View (941) 205-7322
Photo of Danielle Green, MA, MDiv, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
I provide a safe environment to explore and resolve beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that stand in the way of living a fully conscious and authentic life. Specialties include work with anxiety, depression, trauma, divorce, death, attachment ruptures, and ancestral/ inter-generational shame, and PTSD. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have studied at the Graduate Theological Union - University of California, Berkeley, The Graduate School for Marriage and Family Therapy, Ca.Institute of Integral Studies (San Francisco), and The Jung Institute in Zurich, Switzerland. I hold two Masters degrees and a Ph D in Psychology.
I provide a safe environment to explore and resolve beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that stand in the way of living a fully conscious and authentic life. Specialties include work with anxiety, depression, trauma, divorce, death, attachment ruptures, and ancestral/ inter-generational shame, and PTSD. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have studied at the Graduate Theological Union - University of California, Berkeley, The Graduate School for Marriage and Family Therapy, Ca.Institute of Integral Studies (San Francisco), and The Jung Institute in Zurich, Switzerland. I hold two Masters degrees and a Ph D in Psychology.
(941) 203-3351 View (941) 203-3351
Photo of Lynn A Arters, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynn A Arters
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
We live in complicated times. The stresses put upon our relationships with those we care about most can, at times, feel overwhelming. Many couples and families are dealing with any number of difficult or impossible relational issues. Whatever your need, you have the power to make the changes necessary to have the future you desire. Whether your marriage or family is in crisis and is in need of immediate conflict resolution, or you need long-term help and support, Lynn’s years of experience with marriages and families will help you get back on track.
We live in complicated times. The stresses put upon our relationships with those we care about most can, at times, feel overwhelming. Many couples and families are dealing with any number of difficult or impossible relational issues. Whatever your need, you have the power to make the changes necessary to have the future you desire. Whether your marriage or family is in crisis and is in need of immediate conflict resolution, or you need long-term help and support, Lynn’s years of experience with marriages and families will help you get back on track.
(833) 768-7754 View (833) 768-7754
Photo of Andrea Verier, MA, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Andrea Verier
Counselor, MA, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34239
Are you ready to collaborate and embrace change at your own pace? Let's get started! Whether you battle Depression or Anxiety, have an Eating Disorder or an old painful narrative from Trauma, or perhaps you are trying to repair a Relationship or reasonably end one, I appreciate the chance to help you re-calibrate and unfold your truest self. With utmost respect for your past, and present, we will create a more hopeful future. I am experienced in coordinating on your behalf with a host of other healthcare and well-being professionals from many disciplines.
Are you ready to collaborate and embrace change at your own pace? Let's get started! Whether you battle Depression or Anxiety, have an Eating Disorder or an old painful narrative from Trauma, or perhaps you are trying to repair a Relationship or reasonably end one, I appreciate the chance to help you re-calibrate and unfold your truest self. With utmost respect for your past, and present, we will create a more hopeful future. I am experienced in coordinating on your behalf with a host of other healthcare and well-being professionals from many disciplines.
(941) 257-4225 View (941) 257-4225
Photo of Madison Ahles, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison Ahles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34236
It’s hard to imagine a more accurate stereotype than the image of an unhappy adult reclined on a chaise lounge while venting about an unhappy childhood. Though the stereotype might be overly simplified, the reality is your childhood and adolescent years go on to color the rest of your life, shaping your personality, relationships, goals, and opinions. The importance of these years is what drew me to the field. From my very first placement as a graduate school intern, I was especially drawn towards the prospect of helping children and young adults navigate their way through a time that can feel like a rollercoaster.
It’s hard to imagine a more accurate stereotype than the image of an unhappy adult reclined on a chaise lounge while venting about an unhappy childhood. Though the stereotype might be overly simplified, the reality is your childhood and adolescent years go on to color the rest of your life, shaping your personality, relationships, goals, and opinions. The importance of these years is what drew me to the field. From my very first placement as a graduate school intern, I was especially drawn towards the prospect of helping children and young adults navigate their way through a time that can feel like a rollercoaster.
(941) 205-7181 View (941) 205-7181
Photo of Jennifer Humphries, LMHC, MA, QS, Counselor
Jennifer Humphries
Counselor, LMHC, MA, QS
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34234
Hello and welcome! I have over 20 years working with individuals, couples, children and families. (I am a Qualified Supervisor for LMHC Florida interns and available to supervise online and in person). Counseling is offered online. My professional experience includes working with clients in the following areas (including but not limited to): couples counseling, divorce/separation/parent coaching, anxiety, child welfare, family conflict, depression, life skills, domestic violence, life transitions, career counseling, trauma and abuse, ADHD, substance abuse, and much more. See JenniferHumphries.com for more information!
Hello and welcome! I have over 20 years working with individuals, couples, children and families. (I am a Qualified Supervisor for LMHC Florida interns and available to supervise online and in person). Counseling is offered online. My professional experience includes working with clients in the following areas (including but not limited to): couples counseling, divorce/separation/parent coaching, anxiety, child welfare, family conflict, depression, life skills, domestic violence, life transitions, career counseling, trauma and abuse, ADHD, substance abuse, and much more. See JenniferHumphries.com for more information!
(941) 770-3981 View (941) 770-3981
Photo of Susan Albrecht, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Albrecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34236
My intention is to partner with you to overcome any challenges that prevent you from living your life in a joyful, creative totally involved way. Together we clarify issues that cause your distress; set goals, achieve results. How you'd like your life and relationships to look is the focus of a supportive counseling relationship. We pay attention to your mind, body and spirit as you take personal responsibility for your life and move towards conscious awareness. For 30 years I have worked with individuals, couples and families and a variety of problematic situations they present.. I look forward to your call.
My intention is to partner with you to overcome any challenges that prevent you from living your life in a joyful, creative totally involved way. Together we clarify issues that cause your distress; set goals, achieve results. How you'd like your life and relationships to look is the focus of a supportive counseling relationship. We pay attention to your mind, body and spirit as you take personal responsibility for your life and move towards conscious awareness. For 30 years I have worked with individuals, couples and families and a variety of problematic situations they present.. I look forward to your call.
(941) 270-9948 View (941) 270-9948
Photo of Silvana McDevitt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Silvana McDevitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231
I am a LCSW specialized in working with older children, teens, and adults who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, boundary challenges, interpersonal problems, and trauma. I also enjoy working with neurodiverse clients in developing skills and strategies to help them navigate their daily lives. I strive to work with clients to blend practical strategies, coping skills, thought restructuring, mindfulness, problem solving, and other approaches to help them overcome day-to-day stressors and process previous traumatic or stressful events.
I am a LCSW specialized in working with older children, teens, and adults who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, boundary challenges, interpersonal problems, and trauma. I also enjoy working with neurodiverse clients in developing skills and strategies to help them navigate their daily lives. I strive to work with clients to blend practical strategies, coping skills, thought restructuring, mindfulness, problem solving, and other approaches to help them overcome day-to-day stressors and process previous traumatic or stressful events.
(941) 231-5168 View (941) 231-5168
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.