Emotionally Focused Therapists in Payette, ID

Photo of Paige Bunker, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paige Bunker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Payette, ID 83661
Are you feeling overwhelmed by relationship challenges, past trauma, or the weight of anxiety and depression? You are not alone. Welcome, this is where healing begins. I am here to help you navigate through difficult times. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and embark on a journey towards healing and growth. Take the first steps towards a brighter tomorrow by reaching out today.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by relationship challenges, past trauma, or the weight of anxiety and depression? You are not alone. Welcome, this is where healing begins. I am here to help you navigate through difficult times. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and embark on a journey towards healing and growth. Take the first steps towards a brighter tomorrow by reaching out today.
(208) 289-0786 View (208) 289-0786

Online Therapists

Photo of Jared L. Bryson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jared L. Bryson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646  (Online Only)
Telehealh ONLY. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Idaho w/ over 18 years of experience working w/ children, adolescents, adults, couples, & families seeking support with an array of personal and/ or relationship challenges. I have specialized training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy for helping clients resolve trauma. I take a strength-based approach in teaching (DBT) mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional awareness-building, & relationship effectiveness training. I also use cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, & emotionally-focused approaches to help clients find their version of change.
Telehealh ONLY. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in the state of Idaho w/ over 18 years of experience working w/ children, adolescents, adults, couples, & families seeking support with an array of personal and/ or relationship challenges. I have specialized training in Accelerated Resolution Therapy for helping clients resolve trauma. I take a strength-based approach in teaching (DBT) mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional awareness-building, & relationship effectiveness training. I also use cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, & emotionally-focused approaches to help clients find their version of change.
(208) 549-5591 View (208) 549-5591
Photo of Bruce Pagano II - Growing Hope Counseling, LCPC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR-T
Growing Hope Counseling
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCTP, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
Nampa, ID 83651
I use a variety of trauma-informed, client-focused approaches to help clients meet their individual goals; including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Eye movement desensitization & reprocessing therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
At Growing Hope Counseling, we believe that the client is the expert of them and that a therapist is a compassionate guide to aid the person on they journey. We desire to see all people find healing and walk in wholeness. We use a number of client-focused counseling methods to meet individual needs and ensure holistic care. Our hope and purpose is to provide a safe and compassionate environment that ensures the dignity and respect of ALL people.
I use a variety of trauma-informed, client-focused approaches to help clients meet their individual goals; including Emotionally Focused Therapy, Eye movement desensitization & reprocessing therapy, and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
At Growing Hope Counseling, we believe that the client is the expert of them and that a therapist is a compassionate guide to aid the person on they journey. We desire to see all people find healing and walk in wholeness. We use a number of client-focused counseling methods to meet individual needs and ensure holistic care. Our hope and purpose is to provide a safe and compassionate environment that ensures the dignity and respect of ALL people.
(208) 487-5746 View (208) 487-5746
Photo of Jessica Del Vecchio, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Del Vecchio
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Nampa, ID 83651  (Online Only)
My approach integrates humanistic principles, emotionally focused therapy, and trauma-centered psychotherapy, creating a safe space for healing and growth.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, struggling to find your balance amidst trauma, stress, or the significant changes that come with perinatal mental health? You're not alone. If you're nodding along, you might be looking for genuine empathy and support in a therapeutic environment. That's where I step in. Specializing in perinatal mental health, trauma, and compassion fatigue for birth workers. With over a decade of experience, I offer support tailored to your unique needs.
My approach integrates humanistic principles, emotionally focused therapy, and trauma-centered psychotherapy, creating a safe space for healing and growth.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, struggling to find your balance amidst trauma, stress, or the significant changes that come with perinatal mental health? You're not alone. If you're nodding along, you might be looking for genuine empathy and support in a therapeutic environment. That's where I step in. Specializing in perinatal mental health, trauma, and compassion fatigue for birth workers. With over a decade of experience, I offer support tailored to your unique needs.
(208) 776-1789 View (208) 776-1789
Photo of Dani Murillo Pantoja, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dani Murillo Pantoja
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83706  (Online Only)
Using a mindful, culturally inclusive approach, I integrate attachment theory, systemic perspectives, feminist principles, and emotionally focused therapy.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected? Clients I work with are adults grappling with relational trauma and systemic oppression. They often face anxiety, depression, and the impact of past and present traumas. They seek to overcome these challenges to lead more fulfilling lives. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to navigate life's complexities. Their goals include building self-awareness, developing resilience, and fostering a deeper connection with themselves and others. They are looking for a supportive ally to help them on their journey towards healing and empowerment.
Using a mindful, culturally inclusive approach, I integrate attachment theory, systemic perspectives, feminist principles, and emotionally focused therapy.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected? Clients I work with are adults grappling with relational trauma and systemic oppression. They often face anxiety, depression, and the impact of past and present traumas. They seek to overcome these challenges to lead more fulfilling lives. They want to feel heard, validated, and empowered to navigate life's complexities. Their goals include building self-awareness, developing resilience, and fostering a deeper connection with themselves and others. They are looking for a supportive ally to help them on their journey towards healing and empowerment.
(208) 271-3809 View (208) 271-3809
Photo of Peter Billings, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Peter Billings
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
I really admire people who come in for counseling. My goal is to help you build on that courage to find your own unique solutions. A lot of the pain we feel as people has to do with the state of our relationships. That's why I specialize in working with couples using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). This well-researched model helps couples get free of repetitive negative patterns that hurt, and replace them with skills for building a deeply satisfying, trusting connection. I have used EFT to help many couples repair deeply damaged relationships and go on to thrive together.
I really admire people who come in for counseling. My goal is to help you build on that courage to find your own unique solutions. A lot of the pain we feel as people has to do with the state of our relationships. That's why I specialize in working with couples using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). This well-researched model helps couples get free of repetitive negative patterns that hurt, and replace them with skills for building a deeply satisfying, trusting connection. I have used EFT to help many couples repair deeply damaged relationships and go on to thrive together.
(208) 925-1763 View (208) 925-1763
Photo of Andrea Morris, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
I have completed advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples and work with couples to change negative patterns and foster deeper connection.
We all have times when we feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. You may feel unsure where to even start to begin healing or change. I partner with individuals, couples, and families to get clarity. In our work together, clients develop a new understanding of themselves and begin making movement toward change. My training and experience includes couples' issues, blended families, life transitions, parent/teen issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss. With couples, I hold space for you to feel safe, gain insight about yourself and your partner, and grow your relationship stronger.
I have completed advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples and work with couples to change negative patterns and foster deeper connection.
We all have times when we feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected. You may feel unsure where to even start to begin healing or change. I partner with individuals, couples, and families to get clarity. In our work together, clients develop a new understanding of themselves and begin making movement toward change. My training and experience includes couples' issues, blended families, life transitions, parent/teen issues, depression, anxiety, grief and loss. With couples, I hold space for you to feel safe, gain insight about yourself and your partner, and grow your relationship stronger.
(208) 914-7073 View (208) 914-7073
Photo of Merridith Manning, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Merridith Manning
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
I utilize an attachment based approach along with EFT or emotionally focused therapy to help repair relationships.
Are you looking for a renewal in your life. Maybe in your coping strategies, connection with others or goal setting. Perhaps you need to reconnect with purpose and motivation. Maybe you have not felt like yourself in quite a while and are feeling down and/or anxious. At Impact Counseling our therapists provide community mental health in an empathetic and collaborative environment to help you make the necessary changes to feel like yourself again. Some issues treated include trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, sexual behavior problems, mood disorders and more.
I utilize an attachment based approach along with EFT or emotionally focused therapy to help repair relationships.
Are you looking for a renewal in your life. Maybe in your coping strategies, connection with others or goal setting. Perhaps you need to reconnect with purpose and motivation. Maybe you have not felt like yourself in quite a while and are feeling down and/or anxious. At Impact Counseling our therapists provide community mental health in an empathetic and collaborative environment to help you make the necessary changes to feel like yourself again. Some issues treated include trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual abuse, sexual behavior problems, mood disorders and more.
(208) 427-2473 View (208) 427-2473
Photo of Jeremy Wayne Irvin - Idaho Gender and Sex Therapy (Jeremy Irvin, LCSW), LCSW, MEd, CST, CSTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Idaho Gender and Sex Therapy (Jeremy Irvin, LCSW)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, CST, CSTS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
Welcome! I know that taking your first steps into finding a therapist can seem like a daunting task. Every therapist is slightly different, so the most important thing that you can do is to find a therapist who is right for you. Personally, I believe that therapy works best when we are able to work together in a friendly, collaborative environment, where you can feel seen, heard, and known. I also believe that there is no “one size fits all” model, and therefore I tailor my therapy sessions to each client's individual needs.
Welcome! I know that taking your first steps into finding a therapist can seem like a daunting task. Every therapist is slightly different, so the most important thing that you can do is to find a therapist who is right for you. Personally, I believe that therapy works best when we are able to work together in a friendly, collaborative environment, where you can feel seen, heard, and known. I also believe that there is no “one size fits all” model, and therefore I tailor my therapy sessions to each client's individual needs.
(208) 639-2401 View (208) 639-2401
Photo of Carol Ann Conrad - Carol Ann Conrad, EdD, PLLC, EdD, LCPC, Psychologist
Carol Ann Conrad, EdD, PLLC
Psychologist, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706  (Online Only)
Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (and now individuals!) is the most empirically validated treatment found today to help couples heal, with a 90% improvement rate! Trained EFT therapists help couples understand and reorganize their emotional responses to be accessible, responsive and engaged to find more security in their attachment to each other.
Are you at a loss for what to do to find connection in your relationship? Unhappy, isolated, burdened, or grieved at the state of your marriage? Perhaps there have been some big hurts in the relationship and you don't know how to find your way back to each other? I specialize in working with couples and individuals who struggle in their relationships to connection or have childhood and/or adult trauma backgrounds that make trust more challenging. Specialized training: Certified as an Emotionally Focused Couple Therapist and Supervisor, expertise in working with couples and individuals in restoring trust in self and others.
Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (and now individuals!) is the most empirically validated treatment found today to help couples heal, with a 90% improvement rate! Trained EFT therapists help couples understand and reorganize their emotional responses to be accessible, responsive and engaged to find more security in their attachment to each other.
Are you at a loss for what to do to find connection in your relationship? Unhappy, isolated, burdened, or grieved at the state of your marriage? Perhaps there have been some big hurts in the relationship and you don't know how to find your way back to each other? I specialize in working with couples and individuals who struggle in their relationships to connection or have childhood and/or adult trauma backgrounds that make trust more challenging. Specialized training: Certified as an Emotionally Focused Couple Therapist and Supervisor, expertise in working with couples and individuals in restoring trust in self and others.
(208) 469-4829 View (208) 469-4829
Photo of Madison Johnson, LPC, Intern, LPC Intern
Madison Johnson
LPC Intern, LPC, Intern
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83705
In our therapeutic work together, I integrate the concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a splash of Attachment Theory and the Gottman method.
As a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern with training focused on relationships, I aim to help you build confidence and security as you navigate the complexities of all of the relationships within your life. Do you often find yourself struggling to connect meaningfully with others? Or have difficulties communicating with your partner and want to find a way to get on the same page? Do you feel discouraged by dating and are left wondering if you are actually the ‘problem’? I am here to help you not only gain a better understanding of yourself but also a better understanding of who you want to be moving forward.
In our therapeutic work together, I integrate the concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a splash of Attachment Theory and the Gottman method.
As a Clinical Mental Health Counseling Intern with training focused on relationships, I aim to help you build confidence and security as you navigate the complexities of all of the relationships within your life. Do you often find yourself struggling to connect meaningfully with others? Or have difficulties communicating with your partner and want to find a way to get on the same page? Do you feel discouraged by dating and are left wondering if you are actually the ‘problem’? I am here to help you not only gain a better understanding of yourself but also a better understanding of who you want to be moving forward.
(208) 517-9118 View (208) 517-9118
Photo of Adrienne Patridge, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adrienne Patridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702
Available for Individuals Only in October 2024: 11:00 Wednesdays; 10:00 Thursdays......Great struggle in our most meaningful relationships can quickly become the new normal when we experience adversity. No one is immune to this reality. Relationships are healthy when we as individuals are healthy, and I will work with you to achieve a healthy way of being. I enjoy helping both couples and individuals create stronger connections with those who mean most to them. I specialize in couples treatment by using emotionally focused couples therapy (EFCT) to help couples recognize their cycle, and strengthen their bond.
Available for Individuals Only in October 2024: 11:00 Wednesdays; 10:00 Thursdays......Great struggle in our most meaningful relationships can quickly become the new normal when we experience adversity. No one is immune to this reality. Relationships are healthy when we as individuals are healthy, and I will work with you to achieve a healthy way of being. I enjoy helping both couples and individuals create stronger connections with those who mean most to them. I specialize in couples treatment by using emotionally focused couples therapy (EFCT) to help couples recognize their cycle, and strengthen their bond.
(208) 487-8214 View (208) 487-8214
Photo of Patricia Safavi, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Safavi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83712
My primary focus is attachment-based & emotionally focused therapies to help clients feel empowered.
Do you feel stuck in a cycle that you can't get out of? Maybe with yourself , your relationship or family members? I specialize in a unique approach called Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) that helps people get out of negative cycles by processing troubling events, patterns, and feelings. I emphasize the importance of nurturing a space where clients can talk openly so they can achieve their interpersonal and therapeutic intention. I meet with individuals, teens, young adults, couples and families.
My primary focus is attachment-based & emotionally focused therapies to help clients feel empowered.
Do you feel stuck in a cycle that you can't get out of? Maybe with yourself , your relationship or family members? I specialize in a unique approach called Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) that helps people get out of negative cycles by processing troubling events, patterns, and feelings. I emphasize the importance of nurturing a space where clients can talk openly so they can achieve their interpersonal and therapeutic intention. I meet with individuals, teens, young adults, couples and families.
(208) 858-4476 View (208) 858-4476
Photo of Margaret Flynn, PsyD, Psychologist
Margaret Flynn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boise, ID 83702  (Online Only)
Are you are stuck in unhelpful patterns in your life or relationships? Do you want to feel differently about yourself or your partner? Is conflict or distance in your romantic relationship causing stress? Is there a sexual health concern you are not sure where to start to address? Let’s talk! In my practice with couples, I work from an Emotionally Focused Therapy framework, an evidence-based treatment facilitating change from distress to a secure bond. With increased security in your relationship, you can more productively navigate conflict and feel more confident in the world knowing your partner has your back.
Are you are stuck in unhelpful patterns in your life or relationships? Do you want to feel differently about yourself or your partner? Is conflict or distance in your romantic relationship causing stress? Is there a sexual health concern you are not sure where to start to address? Let’s talk! In my practice with couples, I work from an Emotionally Focused Therapy framework, an evidence-based treatment facilitating change from distress to a secure bond. With increased security in your relationship, you can more productively navigate conflict and feel more confident in the world knowing your partner has your back.
(628) 200-4308 View (628) 200-4308
Photo of Danielle Louie, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Louie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83706
Utilizing IFS, EFIT, EFT, and Sandtray, I help clients heal from trauma, while offering a compassionate approach to grief and loss.
Embarking on a journey of growth is a courageous step. I specialize in guiding individuals through depression, anxiety, trauma (relational, C-PTSD, abuse), relationship issues, grief, and identity development . My practice is rooted in cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, ensuring you feel heard and supported. Together, we’ll harness your unique strengths and inner resources to navigate the pain and uncover your authentic self. Witnessing my clients' transformation and empowerment is truly a privilege. Let’s walk this path of healing and self-discovery together – it’s truly my passion!
Utilizing IFS, EFIT, EFT, and Sandtray, I help clients heal from trauma, while offering a compassionate approach to grief and loss.
Embarking on a journey of growth is a courageous step. I specialize in guiding individuals through depression, anxiety, trauma (relational, C-PTSD, abuse), relationship issues, grief, and identity development . My practice is rooted in cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, ensuring you feel heard and supported. Together, we’ll harness your unique strengths and inner resources to navigate the pain and uncover your authentic self. Witnessing my clients' transformation and empowerment is truly a privilege. Let’s walk this path of healing and self-discovery together – it’s truly my passion!
(208) 944-1709 View (208) 944-1709
Photo of Brian Smith, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Brian Smith
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kuna, ID 83634  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, and groups who believe personal change is possible and valuable in their lives. I use an emotion focused approach, as put forth in the work of Dr. Les Greenberg, and have received formal training in Dr. Sue Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples. I believe that people are agents of their own positive change, and that many are unaware of how emotions relate to their thoughts and behavior. My clinical practice has taught me to respect the experience, worldview, and value system of each individual without imposing my own. I am an LGBTQ+ ally.
I work with individuals, couples, and groups who believe personal change is possible and valuable in their lives. I use an emotion focused approach, as put forth in the work of Dr. Les Greenberg, and have received formal training in Dr. Sue Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples. I believe that people are agents of their own positive change, and that many are unaware of how emotions relate to their thoughts and behavior. My clinical practice has taught me to respect the experience, worldview, and value system of each individual without imposing my own. I am an LGBTQ+ ally.
(208) 914-6409 View (208) 914-6409
Photo of Joshua C Bode, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua C Bode
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83702
Currently Accepting New Patients! My ideal client is someone who is motivated for change and ready to be open and honest with themselves about the things in their lives that have become barriers to their overall happiness. I am currently offering services on Monday and Wednesday evenings and offer appointment times of 4:15, 5, 6, 7, and 8 pm.
Currently Accepting New Patients! My ideal client is someone who is motivated for change and ready to be open and honest with themselves about the things in their lives that have become barriers to their overall happiness. I am currently offering services on Monday and Wednesday evenings and offer appointment times of 4:15, 5, 6, 7, and 8 pm.
(208) 516-1903 View (208) 516-1903
Photo of Chelise King, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelise King
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Meridian, ID 83646
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Idaho State University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I believe that mental health challenges are personal and coming to counseling elicits vulnerability. I am eager to provide a nurturing environment which encourages honesty and authenticity. There is no judgement in our space together. Your voice is crucial to the healing process and our work together will be collaborative. I understand that it takes courage to start counseling and I acknowledge that step towards healing and growth.
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Idaho State University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC). I believe that mental health challenges are personal and coming to counseling elicits vulnerability. I am eager to provide a nurturing environment which encourages honesty and authenticity. There is no judgement in our space together. Your voice is crucial to the healing process and our work together will be collaborative. I understand that it takes courage to start counseling and I acknowledge that step towards healing and growth.
(208) 285-3478 View (208) 285-3478
Photo of Susie Orme, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susie Orme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boise, ID 83709
Hello! The cornerstone of my practice is to meet you where you are at and work together to help you build upon your strengths and develop resilience and resourcefulness in challenging times. My therapeutic style is compassionate, collaborative, and goal-oriented. I strive to create a brave, inclusive space where you have the self-determination to express your authentic voice, seek greater knowledge and awareness, and move towards lasting change. I enjoy developing meaningful connections and serving people of all identities, communities, and cultures on concerns related to gender, sexual orientation, and overall sexual health.
Hello! The cornerstone of my practice is to meet you where you are at and work together to help you build upon your strengths and develop resilience and resourcefulness in challenging times. My therapeutic style is compassionate, collaborative, and goal-oriented. I strive to create a brave, inclusive space where you have the self-determination to express your authentic voice, seek greater knowledge and awareness, and move towards lasting change. I enjoy developing meaningful connections and serving people of all identities, communities, and cultures on concerns related to gender, sexual orientation, and overall sexual health.
(208) 427-2553 View (208) 427-2553
Photo of John Szudera, LCPC, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Szudera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCPC, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
73 Endorsed
Meridian, ID 83646
I provide online therapy in Colorado & Idaho, as well as in-office therapy in Broomfield, CO. I use holistic approaches to address the treatment for couples, families, and individuals to address familial relationships, coupleship discourse (all orientations), CNM/poly relationships, neurodiversity, autism, anxiety, depression, & ADHD. I am a firm believer that relationships and connection are intrinsic to personal development and each person’s values are important in the development of a course of treatment based on the goals and desired outcome clients have selected.
I provide online therapy in Colorado & Idaho, as well as in-office therapy in Broomfield, CO. I use holistic approaches to address the treatment for couples, families, and individuals to address familial relationships, coupleship discourse (all orientations), CNM/poly relationships, neurodiversity, autism, anxiety, depression, & ADHD. I am a firm believer that relationships and connection are intrinsic to personal development and each person’s values are important in the development of a course of treatment based on the goals and desired outcome clients have selected.
(208) 273-9521 View (208) 273-9521

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Emotionally Focused Therapists

Who is emotionally focused therapy for?

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

Why do people need emotionally focused therapy?

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

What happens in emotionally focused therapy?

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

What problems does emotionally focused therapy treat?

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