Emotionally Focused Therapists in Buford, GA

Photo of Kristi Burgess, LPC, MDiv, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristi Burgess
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MDiv, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518  (Online Only)
Caught in the same pattern of repetitive conflict that leaves you both feeling distant and alone? Couples who find themselves in predictable and distressing arguments want to stop the cycle and repair the damage. A new, positive pattern of relating can create safety and security in your relationship and help you move from disconnection toward a heart-to-heart connection. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT) has been proven to help 75 percent of couples improve and maintain their connection over time.
Caught in the same pattern of repetitive conflict that leaves you both feeling distant and alone? Couples who find themselves in predictable and distressing arguments want to stop the cycle and repair the damage. A new, positive pattern of relating can create safety and security in your relationship and help you move from disconnection toward a heart-to-heart connection. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT) has been proven to help 75 percent of couples improve and maintain their connection over time.
(678) 974-0852 View (678) 974-0852
Photo of Reva Manon Kraus - Northeast Georgia Counseling, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Northeast Georgia Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
For deep personal and emotional hurts, I have been trained in and use the Emotionally Focused principles ( EFT) of Sue Johnson.
My clients deal with a wide range of issues: emotions that often feel intense and out of control, suicidal behaviors, anxiety, depression, trauma and self harming behaviors. For this I use DBT and mindfulness to help them stabilize, make new choices and have a life they feel is worth living. I also work with seniors dealing with aging issues, depression, anxiety, and the grief of losing friends to death. Along with that, I work with grief and caregiver burn out. I use CBT reframing, mindfulness and EFT principles to support and assist. I have a wide range of experience with helping clients dealing with chronic illness and death.
For deep personal and emotional hurts, I have been trained in and use the Emotionally Focused principles ( EFT) of Sue Johnson.
My clients deal with a wide range of issues: emotions that often feel intense and out of control, suicidal behaviors, anxiety, depression, trauma and self harming behaviors. For this I use DBT and mindfulness to help them stabilize, make new choices and have a life they feel is worth living. I also work with seniors dealing with aging issues, depression, anxiety, and the grief of losing friends to death. Along with that, I work with grief and caregiver burn out. I use CBT reframing, mindfulness and EFT principles to support and assist. I have a wide range of experience with helping clients dealing with chronic illness and death.
(770) 271-5040 View (770) 271-5040
Photo of Rebecca Lynn Crowe, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Lynn Crowe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30515
I incorporate many elements of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 24 years of rich experience providing hope and healing to individuals of all ages. I will meet you where you are and will strive to strengthen our relationship by providing the highest quality of care. I love listening to people's stories and offering encouragement and hope to the discouraged and hopeless. I am committed to helping you find the life you were meant to live by collaborating with you to determine the best treatment methods to meet your individual needs.
I incorporate many elements of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 24 years of rich experience providing hope and healing to individuals of all ages. I will meet you where you are and will strive to strengthen our relationship by providing the highest quality of care. I love listening to people's stories and offering encouragement and hope to the discouraged and hopeless. I am committed to helping you find the life you were meant to live by collaborating with you to determine the best treatment methods to meet your individual needs.
(678) 394-3130 View (678) 394-3130
Photo of Karen S Barnes, MA, LMFT, LPC, CSAT, CCPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen S Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, CSAT, CCPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I am a Certified EFT Therapist, have completed Level 2 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and am EMDR trained.
Perhaps along the way your relationship has changed. The connection you once had seems shallow and distant. It's hard to find your way back to one another. Whether you are experiencing loss, betrayal, sexual addiction, sexual difficulties, or general relationship struggles - you are not alone. It is normal to hurt - it is possible to heal. As a CSAT - Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, an APSATS trained CCPS - Certified Clinical Partner Specialist, Certified ERCEM Specialist, and Certified Clinical Disclosure Guide I will journey with you to establish trust, find your voice, and rebuild intimacy.
I am a Certified EFT Therapist, have completed Level 2 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and am EMDR trained.
Perhaps along the way your relationship has changed. The connection you once had seems shallow and distant. It's hard to find your way back to one another. Whether you are experiencing loss, betrayal, sexual addiction, sexual difficulties, or general relationship struggles - you are not alone. It is normal to hurt - it is possible to heal. As a CSAT - Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, an APSATS trained CCPS - Certified Clinical Partner Specialist, Certified ERCEM Specialist, and Certified Clinical Disclosure Guide I will journey with you to establish trust, find your voice, and rebuild intimacy.
(770) 629-8988 View (770) 629-8988
Photo of Luke Durain, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Luke Durain
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I often lead couples through the active listener and empathy exercises, as well as drawing from an evidence-based model called Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I have extensive experience providing therapy for adults, teens, and couples. I have experience helping individuals navigate difficulties with depression, anxiety, trauma, spiritual concerns, or relationship issues. I tailor my approach to provide a variety of practical coping skills (such as mindfulness and CBT), as well as taking an in-depth relational approach to more complex topics (such as psychodynamic or Internal Family Systems).
I often lead couples through the active listener and empathy exercises, as well as drawing from an evidence-based model called Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I have extensive experience providing therapy for adults, teens, and couples. I have experience helping individuals navigate difficulties with depression, anxiety, trauma, spiritual concerns, or relationship issues. I tailor my approach to provide a variety of practical coping skills (such as mindfulness and CBT), as well as taking an in-depth relational approach to more complex topics (such as psychodynamic or Internal Family Systems).
(770) 822-4505 View (770) 822-4505
Photo of Courtney Briscoe, APC, Counselor
Courtney Briscoe
Counselor, APC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I am an empathetic, creative, compassionate, and caring therapist who loves working with individuals from all walks of life. I earned a Bachelor of science in psychology from Young Harris College in 2016 and a Master of Arts in professional counseling from Truett McConnell University in 2022. I am under the direction and clinical supervision of Rebecca Muyres LPC, RPT-S, CPCS. I specifically enjoy incorporating art, music, and play into counseling, as I believe these creative outlets are therapeutic and bring about healing in a joyful, light-hearted manner.
I am an empathetic, creative, compassionate, and caring therapist who loves working with individuals from all walks of life. I earned a Bachelor of science in psychology from Young Harris College in 2016 and a Master of Arts in professional counseling from Truett McConnell University in 2022. I am under the direction and clinical supervision of Rebecca Muyres LPC, RPT-S, CPCS. I specifically enjoy incorporating art, music, and play into counseling, as I believe these creative outlets are therapeutic and bring about healing in a joyful, light-hearted manner.
(470) 206-2098 View (470) 206-2098
Photo of Raymond Allen Harrison, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Raymond Allen Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30519  (Online Only)
My name is Raymond Harrison, and I am a licensed therapist in Georgia. You can look at my profile to learn a little bit more about my background and approach. Please also feel free to ask any questions you may have about psychotherapy. Online counseling is new, and I have found it to be effective for issues like the ones you mentioned in your message. Previous individuals have described me as caring, and sympathetic, with a good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles.
My name is Raymond Harrison, and I am a licensed therapist in Georgia. You can look at my profile to learn a little bit more about my background and approach. Please also feel free to ask any questions you may have about psychotherapy. Online counseling is new, and I have found it to be effective for issues like the ones you mentioned in your message. Previous individuals have described me as caring, and sympathetic, with a good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles.
(470) 928-5624 View (470) 928-5624
Photo of Alexis Mardosa, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Mardosa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30519  (Online Only)
My name is Alexis, I have over ten years experience as a licensed professional counselor and board registered certified art therapist. I provide high quality counseling services tailored to your specific needs. I specialize in chronic and pervasive mental health diagnoses like: anxiety, depression, bi-polar, and ADHD, as well as, relationship difficulties, trauma, divorce, and cognitive or learning disabilities. I offer a safe and non-judgmental virtual space dedicated to your personal growth, healing, and overall well-being. Art therapy has been proven to reduce symptoms faster than talk therapy alone.
My name is Alexis, I have over ten years experience as a licensed professional counselor and board registered certified art therapist. I provide high quality counseling services tailored to your specific needs. I specialize in chronic and pervasive mental health diagnoses like: anxiety, depression, bi-polar, and ADHD, as well as, relationship difficulties, trauma, divorce, and cognitive or learning disabilities. I offer a safe and non-judgmental virtual space dedicated to your personal growth, healing, and overall well-being. Art therapy has been proven to reduce symptoms faster than talk therapy alone.
(404) 640-5795 View (404) 640-5795
Photo of Jennifer Drury, LMFT, CAADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Drury
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Waitlist for new clients
Rainer Maria Rilke's quote "The only journey is the one within" expresses my hope for my clients in their path to wellness. I have experience in working with individuals and couples seeking help with adjustment/phase of life issues, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, relationship concerns, and low self esteem. I am passionate about being an ally of the LGBTQA+ community, and identify as an affirming and sex-positive therapist. I enjoy supporting those who are experiencing major life changes, such as going to college, grieving a loss, becoming a new parent, transitioning to their true self, or embracing retirement.
Rainer Maria Rilke's quote "The only journey is the one within" expresses my hope for my clients in their path to wellness. I have experience in working with individuals and couples seeking help with adjustment/phase of life issues, depression, anxiety, substance use, trauma, relationship concerns, and low self esteem. I am passionate about being an ally of the LGBTQA+ community, and identify as an affirming and sex-positive therapist. I enjoy supporting those who are experiencing major life changes, such as going to college, grieving a loss, becoming a new parent, transitioning to their true self, or embracing retirement.
(678) 883-1197 View (678) 883-1197
Photo of Julie Trujillo, LPC, CACIII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Trujillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CACIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518  (Online Only)
Do you need help adjusting to all of the Changes? Are Anxiety, Fear, and Stress getting to you? Do you need help getting Unstuck? I can help you move forward! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a background in Anxiety, Addictions, Anger, Domestic Violence, Relationships and Criminal Justice. I have experience helping patients improve their marriage/relationship, resolve grief, reduce anxiety, control anger and improve life satisfaction. I have experience working with High Performing Professionals. ***I am NOT currently providing court ordered treatment or evaluations in Georgia.
Do you need help adjusting to all of the Changes? Are Anxiety, Fear, and Stress getting to you? Do you need help getting Unstuck? I can help you move forward! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a background in Anxiety, Addictions, Anger, Domestic Violence, Relationships and Criminal Justice. I have experience helping patients improve their marriage/relationship, resolve grief, reduce anxiety, control anger and improve life satisfaction. I have experience working with High Performing Professionals. ***I am NOT currently providing court ordered treatment or evaluations in Georgia.
(770) 691-2119 View (770) 691-2119
Photo of Malisa Funderburk, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Malisa Funderburk
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
I am a compassionate therapist who creates a safe space to be real and meets you where you are without judgment. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Georgia State University and my Master’s in Professional Counseling from Truett McConnell University in 2023. I am under the clinical supervision of Cheryl A. O’Connell-Clinical Director LPC, CPCS, BC-TMH and the site direction of Rebecca Muyres, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS. Life is challenging and is not meant to be walked alone. My desire is to come alongside you as you journey through difficult challenges and experience hope, healing, and abundance in your life.
I am a compassionate therapist who creates a safe space to be real and meets you where you are without judgment. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Georgia State University and my Master’s in Professional Counseling from Truett McConnell University in 2023. I am under the clinical supervision of Cheryl A. O’Connell-Clinical Director LPC, CPCS, BC-TMH and the site direction of Rebecca Muyres, LPC, RPT-S, CPCS. Life is challenging and is not meant to be walked alone. My desire is to come alongside you as you journey through difficult challenges and experience hope, healing, and abundance in your life.
(470) 688-2973 x507 View (470) 688-2973 x507
Photo of Robert Hunter - Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent, MD
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
(470) 215-1788 View (470) 215-1788
Photo of Jamie H Yates, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie H Yates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
VOTED BEST OF GWINNETT 2020, 2021, and 2022! COME SEE WHY! As a licensed professional counselor and life coach I have over 15 years experience working with a very diverse population. From individuals struggling with significant mental health issues to others working on adjustment to new life circumstances, I can offer guidance, support, compassion, and expert care during difficult times in your life. Let me help you develop the tools and skills that will help to ease whatever struggles you may have. Together we can develop and implement a plan to live a positive and fulfilling life!
VOTED BEST OF GWINNETT 2020, 2021, and 2022! COME SEE WHY! As a licensed professional counselor and life coach I have over 15 years experience working with a very diverse population. From individuals struggling with significant mental health issues to others working on adjustment to new life circumstances, I can offer guidance, support, compassion, and expert care during difficult times in your life. Let me help you develop the tools and skills that will help to ease whatever struggles you may have. Together we can develop and implement a plan to live a positive and fulfilling life!
(850) 367-7748 View (850) 367-7748
Photo of Kathryn Miller, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I believe life is about balance. Balancing our relationships, health, work, and hobbies. But sometimes, life can throw us off due to our experiences, relationships, and emotions. Together, we will take a holistic view of your life, what's working well, and where you might need support to help you regain equilibrium. Honoring yourself, your past experiences, and your needs can lead to the healing and growth you are looking for.
I believe life is about balance. Balancing our relationships, health, work, and hobbies. But sometimes, life can throw us off due to our experiences, relationships, and emotions. Together, we will take a holistic view of your life, what's working well, and where you might need support to help you regain equilibrium. Honoring yourself, your past experiences, and your needs can lead to the healing and growth you are looking for.
(470) 410-2842 View (470) 410-2842
Photo of Veronica Pausa, APC, Counselor
Veronica Pausa
Counselor, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
HELLO! Can I just start by saying that this step you are taking to search for counseling is courageous! There might be many unknowns coming to mind as you consider the struggles your facing, the counselor you choose and their working style, and maybe even wondering if you will be received amid your concerns (I know I have felt this way before).
HELLO! Can I just start by saying that this step you are taking to search for counseling is courageous! There might be many unknowns coming to mind as you consider the struggles your facing, the counselor you choose and their working style, and maybe even wondering if you will be received amid your concerns (I know I have felt this way before).
(470) 664-5215 x705 View (470) 664-5215 x705
Photo of Jessica Salgado, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Salgado
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30519  (Online Only)
Before I tell you about how I practice, let me tell you that I am happy you are seeking help. This first step is major and life changing, I applaud you for the strength you are using. Change is normal and at times expected, but it can also cause stress and wreak havoc in our lives, disrupting it. Sometimes the change is traumatic and unexpected and can cause our moods to shift, or behavior to change. Therapy can help when the changes that occur in your life that affect your everyday life. Are you seeking help for your child, adolescent, or yourself?
Before I tell you about how I practice, let me tell you that I am happy you are seeking help. This first step is major and life changing, I applaud you for the strength you are using. Change is normal and at times expected, but it can also cause stress and wreak havoc in our lives, disrupting it. Sometimes the change is traumatic and unexpected and can cause our moods to shift, or behavior to change. Therapy can help when the changes that occur in your life that affect your everyday life. Are you seeking help for your child, adolescent, or yourself?
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Rachel Zimmerman, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Rachel Zimmerman
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by new parents, I offer support and guidance to ease the adjustment period. Whether it is coping with sleep deprivation, managing conflicting parenting styles, or addressing communication breakdowns, I provide a safe space for parents to explore their concerns and develop effective strategies to nurture their child's growth while maintaining their own well-being. Additionally, I offer a compassionate space for individuals experiencing perinatal mood disorders, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, working collaboratively to develop coping mechanisms and restore emotional security.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by new parents, I offer support and guidance to ease the adjustment period. Whether it is coping with sleep deprivation, managing conflicting parenting styles, or addressing communication breakdowns, I provide a safe space for parents to explore their concerns and develop effective strategies to nurture their child's growth while maintaining their own well-being. Additionally, I offer a compassionate space for individuals experiencing perinatal mood disorders, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, working collaboratively to develop coping mechanisms and restore emotional security.
(470) 444-4547 x707 View (470) 444-4547 x707
Photo of Thomas L Mcclain - Obtain the Promise Services & Consulting LLC, MS, LPC, CCTP, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Obtain the Promise Services & Consulting LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30519  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The ability of an individual to obtain the goals and aspirations that they once believed were obtainable often triggers struggles. You have been given a promise, but find life has dealt you a bad hand. I focus on assisting you to identify how that lost promise has affected you emotionally, spiritually, and psychologically. Together, we work to obtain the promise of living life on purpose. We desire to make therapy more accessible through teletherapy. Please visit https://obtainthepromise.com/
The ability of an individual to obtain the goals and aspirations that they once believed were obtainable often triggers struggles. You have been given a promise, but find life has dealt you a bad hand. I focus on assisting you to identify how that lost promise has affected you emotionally, spiritually, and psychologically. Together, we work to obtain the promise of living life on purpose. We desire to make therapy more accessible through teletherapy. Please visit https://obtainthepromise.com/
(404) 977-4895 View (404) 977-4895
Photo of Brooke Harris - Art of Healing: Integrative Christian Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Art of Healing: Integrative Christian Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
My name is Brooke and I thank you for considering me to share your life experiences, greatest joys and lowest moments. I consider it the highest honor. I specialize in anxiety, grief/loss, relationship struggles, ADHD, identity formation, trauma and life transitions. I also specialize in Christian counseling, but that is optional to you as I am trained without that aspect as well. My hope is to assess your goals and partner with you to achieve them! This process can be overwhelming and daunting but have no fear! We can do so much together.
My name is Brooke and I thank you for considering me to share your life experiences, greatest joys and lowest moments. I consider it the highest honor. I specialize in anxiety, grief/loss, relationship struggles, ADHD, identity formation, trauma and life transitions. I also specialize in Christian counseling, but that is optional to you as I am trained without that aspect as well. My hope is to assess your goals and partner with you to achieve them! This process can be overwhelming and daunting but have no fear! We can do so much together.
(470) 839-3113 View (470) 839-3113
Photo of Busola S Adegunwa - Bee Good Therapy, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bee Good Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30519  (Online Only)
Do you wake up already feeling behind? Are you constantly battling anxiety, overwhelm, or a sense that you're just not 'enough'? You're not alone, and more importantly, you don't have to navigate this journey by yourself. You're Here Because You Want More for Yourself You're tired of the disappointment you feel in yourself, the weight of daily tasks that feel like too much, and the sinking feeling that you're not living up to your own expectations, let alone anyone else's. What you need isn't another influencer tadvice that doesn't apply to your unique situation.
Do you wake up already feeling behind? Are you constantly battling anxiety, overwhelm, or a sense that you're just not 'enough'? You're not alone, and more importantly, you don't have to navigate this journey by yourself. You're Here Because You Want More for Yourself You're tired of the disappointment you feel in yourself, the weight of daily tasks that feel like too much, and the sinking feeling that you're not living up to your own expectations, let alone anyone else's. What you need isn't another influencer tadvice that doesn't apply to your unique situation.
(404) 900-3847 View (404) 900-3847
1
Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

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

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

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

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

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

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

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