Emotionally Focused Therapists in Clarendon Hills, IL

Photo of Donald Price, LCPC
Donald Price
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
I discovered my passion to make a difference in others’ lives when I began my career in Behavioral Health over 20 years ago. I am privileged to meet people and together we find the solutions to whatever life problems come into our lives. I have been consistently told by clients that they feel safe and comfortable talking about whatever brings them in and that they feel better when they leave a session. It’s my goal to provide you the ability to leave a session with more than you came with as part of the process of change and healing.
I discovered my passion to make a difference in others’ lives when I began my career in Behavioral Health over 20 years ago. I am privileged to meet people and together we find the solutions to whatever life problems come into our lives. I have been consistently told by clients that they feel safe and comfortable talking about whatever brings them in and that they feel better when they leave a session. It’s my goal to provide you the ability to leave a session with more than you came with as part of the process of change and healing.
(331) 204-1896 View (331) 204-1896
Photo of Alexandra Petrohilos, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Alexandra Petrohilos
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
While it may be difficult for you to seek help for yourself or your family, my goal is to work together in a supportive and encouraging way to meet your needs.  With over 20 years of professional experience, and as a former classroom teacher and school counselor I have developed my practice and included therapists to focus and specialize in working with school-aged children and adolescents to overcome challenges while providing support and psycho-education for the entire family. We also specialize in women's counseling and provide counseling and therapy to children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, and women.
While it may be difficult for you to seek help for yourself or your family, my goal is to work together in a supportive and encouraging way to meet your needs.  With over 20 years of professional experience, and as a former classroom teacher and school counselor I have developed my practice and included therapists to focus and specialize in working with school-aged children and adolescents to overcome challenges while providing support and psycho-education for the entire family. We also specialize in women's counseling and provide counseling and therapy to children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples, and women.
(331) 200-3659 View (331) 200-3659
Photo of Sarah Reynertson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Reynertson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
Do you often feel sad and struggle to get through the day? Do you have difficulty finding the energy to engage in self care practices? Have you been through trauma or loss which has negatively impacted you? Do you just feel stuck and need support, guidance, and encouragement with navigating how to move forward? I primarily work with adult and adolescent populations in navigating life transitions and stressors which leave us feeling stuck, depressed, and anxious while struggling to function in the ways we desire. I enjoy supporting others in navigating their life journey and finding ways to create positive change.
Do you often feel sad and struggle to get through the day? Do you have difficulty finding the energy to engage in self care practices? Have you been through trauma or loss which has negatively impacted you? Do you just feel stuck and need support, guidance, and encouragement with navigating how to move forward? I primarily work with adult and adolescent populations in navigating life transitions and stressors which leave us feeling stuck, depressed, and anxious while struggling to function in the ways we desire. I enjoy supporting others in navigating their life journey and finding ways to create positive change.
(833) 613-0241 View (833) 613-0241
Photo of Bailey Coyne, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bailey Coyne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
Bailey Coyne, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor that specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and athletes of all ages. She is dedicated towards helping clients gain insight and develop effective coping strategies. Lastly, Bailey is has completed her level one training in EMDR and is also completing the final steps to become a CMPC (Certified Mental Performance Coach).
Bailey Coyne, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor that specializes in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and athletes of all ages. She is dedicated towards helping clients gain insight and develop effective coping strategies. Lastly, Bailey is has completed her level one training in EMDR and is also completing the final steps to become a CMPC (Certified Mental Performance Coach).
(224) 313-4872 View (224) 313-4872
Photo of Cesar Rocha, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cesar Rocha
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Media and Theatre and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My formal training in the counseling field ranges from working with children with trauma, adults with depression and anxiety, couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and wellness groups. I have worked with clients who want to change and with mandated clients. I have helped clients set and accomplish their goals. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I use different therapeutic approaches depending on the need of the client.
I completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Media and Theatre and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My formal training in the counseling field ranges from working with children with trauma, adults with depression and anxiety, couples therapy, substance abuse counseling, and wellness groups. I have worked with clients who want to change and with mandated clients. I have helped clients set and accomplish their goals. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I use different therapeutic approaches depending on the need of the client.
(630) 454-9036 View (630) 454-9036
Photo of Ann Schulz, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Schulz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
Making the decision to work on your life takes so much courage. My passion involves working with individuals who want to pursue personal growth. My approach is open, honest and with a dash of humor. I believe the core of this work is developing a relationship of trust and honesty. Whatever you are facing in your life- whether it be relationships difficulties, self-esteem, depression, anxiety or anything that is challenging your wellbeing, we can work together to help you have the life you want based on your values.
Making the decision to work on your life takes so much courage. My passion involves working with individuals who want to pursue personal growth. My approach is open, honest and with a dash of humor. I believe the core of this work is developing a relationship of trust and honesty. Whatever you are facing in your life- whether it be relationships difficulties, self-esteem, depression, anxiety or anything that is challenging your wellbeing, we can work together to help you have the life you want based on your values.
(708) 766-7640 View (708) 766-7640
Photo of Karen C Shockley, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Karen C Shockley
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
I provide individual counseling to late adolescents and adults, with a special interest in adjustment and periods of transition. My clinical focus is on issues of mood and depression, stress and anxiety, adjustment to life transitions, relationship distress, grief, self-esteem and identity issues, self-harm, and trauma-related issues. I begin with a person-centered approach - believing in each person's potential - and utilize strategies appropriate to each client's unique situation, including CBT, family dynamics, relationship building, relaxation methods, DBT, and narrative therapy.
I provide individual counseling to late adolescents and adults, with a special interest in adjustment and periods of transition. My clinical focus is on issues of mood and depression, stress and anxiety, adjustment to life transitions, relationship distress, grief, self-esteem and identity issues, self-harm, and trauma-related issues. I begin with a person-centered approach - believing in each person's potential - and utilize strategies appropriate to each client's unique situation, including CBT, family dynamics, relationship building, relaxation methods, DBT, and narrative therapy.
(630) 749-2511 View (630) 749-2511
Photo of Margaret Engel, LPC, ATR-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Engel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-P
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
Starting a healing journey takes courage and trust. Everyday life doesn't always provide the safety and support to discover our truest selves. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or major life changes, I am here to utilize your strengths and create a therapeutic environment that will best help you develop the skills to have a fuller life. As an art therapist, I integrate the creative process through art making when it aligns with the client's needs.
Starting a healing journey takes courage and trust. Everyday life doesn't always provide the safety and support to discover our truest selves. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or major life changes, I am here to utilize your strengths and create a therapeutic environment that will best help you develop the skills to have a fuller life. As an art therapist, I integrate the creative process through art making when it aligns with the client's needs.
(630) 642-6636 View (630) 642-6636
Photo of Samantha Sperlak - Olive and Sage Wellness, MA, LCPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olive and Sage Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarendon Hills, IL 60514
Are you a woman that is feeling frustrated that penetrative sex feels painful and less enjoyable than you thought it would be? Perhaps you are feeling frustrated by the consistent pattern of unfulfilling and frustrating relationship issues in your life and have wondered to yourself, ‘maybe I need to work on me’? Or maybe you are struggling to manage overwhelming feelings with pregnancy or navigating the minefields of pregnancy, prenatal, or postpartum? Either way, you're feeling disheartened that your life does not look like you imagined it would and you're looking for a change.
Are you a woman that is feeling frustrated that penetrative sex feels painful and less enjoyable than you thought it would be? Perhaps you are feeling frustrated by the consistent pattern of unfulfilling and frustrating relationship issues in your life and have wondered to yourself, ‘maybe I need to work on me’? Or maybe you are struggling to manage overwhelming feelings with pregnancy or navigating the minefields of pregnancy, prenatal, or postpartum? Either way, you're feeling disheartened that your life does not look like you imagined it would and you're looking for a change.
(708) 292-6053 View (708) 292-6053

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Erica Rose Cummings, NBC-HWC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erica Rose Cummings
Pre-Licensed Professional, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Darien, IL 60561
I will utilize an eclectic approach that incorporates psychodynamic theory, emotionally focused therapy, Gottman techniques, and a person-centered approach to help empower clients to find a new normal that promotes health, a sense of safety, and feelings of fulfillment.
There are few times in an individual's and family's life as transformational as when a new life gets added to the family. I am here to help support parents and families as they navigate pregnancy, post-partum, and parenting challenges. This includes perinatal mental health, changes in relationship/family dynamics, setting up a system/routine that works for all caregivers, adjusting division of labor expectations at home, how to get on the same page with your partner regarding parenting choices and techniques, intimacy-related issues, establishing boundaries with extended family, and more.
I will utilize an eclectic approach that incorporates psychodynamic theory, emotionally focused therapy, Gottman techniques, and a person-centered approach to help empower clients to find a new normal that promotes health, a sense of safety, and feelings of fulfillment.
There are few times in an individual's and family's life as transformational as when a new life gets added to the family. I am here to help support parents and families as they navigate pregnancy, post-partum, and parenting challenges. This includes perinatal mental health, changes in relationship/family dynamics, setting up a system/routine that works for all caregivers, adjusting division of labor expectations at home, how to get on the same page with your partner regarding parenting choices and techniques, intimacy-related issues, establishing boundaries with extended family, and more.
(331) 234-3843 View (331) 234-3843
Photo of Angelica Chrzascik, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angelica Chrzascik
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willowbrook, IL 60527
While working with couples, I also lean into emotionally focused theory and Gottmam techniques(Level 1 training).
As a therapist, my goal is to provide my clients with trauma-informed care to guide treatment and walk with them through the process of healing. My passion for mental health stems from the belief that every person is capable of changing their life for the better. I work with teens, adults, and couples with a range of concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and more. As we work together, I aim to build your toolbox of skills to reach for and increase your sense of peace as I provide a space to comfortably discuss any topic. It would be an honor to join you on your journey
While working with couples, I also lean into emotionally focused theory and Gottmam techniques(Level 1 training).
As a therapist, my goal is to provide my clients with trauma-informed care to guide treatment and walk with them through the process of healing. My passion for mental health stems from the belief that every person is capable of changing their life for the better. I work with teens, adults, and couples with a range of concerns such as trauma, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and more. As we work together, I aim to build your toolbox of skills to reach for and increase your sense of peace as I provide a space to comfortably discuss any topic. It would be an honor to join you on your journey
(708) 934-8714 View (708) 934-8714
Photo of Patricia Yadgir, MS, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Yadgir
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
Utilizing an eclectic approach with CBT, EFT and ACT, you'll gain knowledge that will help you realize you can be in charge of how you feel.
Deciding to get therapy might be a big step for you. But it can truly be a life changing decision. With over 25 years' experience as a therapist, I have learned that the client/therapist relationship is essential to therapeutic progress. So, in addition to having experience and expertise, my job is to make you feel comfortable, safe and heard so that the work we do together will be successful. I am goal-oriented and solution-focused in my practice. Whether working with individuals or couples, we will explore tools and new ways of thinking that will allow you to leave therapy with the changes that you came in looking for.
Utilizing an eclectic approach with CBT, EFT and ACT, you'll gain knowledge that will help you realize you can be in charge of how you feel.
Deciding to get therapy might be a big step for you. But it can truly be a life changing decision. With over 25 years' experience as a therapist, I have learned that the client/therapist relationship is essential to therapeutic progress. So, in addition to having experience and expertise, my job is to make you feel comfortable, safe and heard so that the work we do together will be successful. I am goal-oriented and solution-focused in my practice. Whether working with individuals or couples, we will explore tools and new ways of thinking that will allow you to leave therapy with the changes that you came in looking for.
(331) 216-1507 View (331) 216-1507
Photo of Mary Gigi Borge, MA , LCPC, EMDR, NCC
Mary Gigi Borge
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA , LCPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Waitlist for new clients
I offer approaches focused on creating healthy relationships (IFS, EFT, Gottman), healing from trauma (EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, IFS, experiential therapy), and supporting clients in their pursuits (Strengths-based coaching, CBT, Mindfulness).
Whether you seek relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, PTSD, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I am excited to collaborate with clients who desire to live their unique lives fully, participate in their healing process and seek to establish genuine, compassionate relationship with themselves and others! I believe most of us are doing our best to become who we hope to be, and can benefit from seeking appropriate support. Therefore, I don’t see a diagnosis, but an amazing human who wants to thrive despite life’s many challenges.
I offer approaches focused on creating healthy relationships (IFS, EFT, Gottman), healing from trauma (EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, IFS, experiential therapy), and supporting clients in their pursuits (Strengths-based coaching, CBT, Mindfulness).
Whether you seek relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, PTSD, relationship difficulties or other challenges, I am excited to collaborate with clients who desire to live their unique lives fully, participate in their healing process and seek to establish genuine, compassionate relationship with themselves and others! I believe most of us are doing our best to become who we hope to be, and can benefit from seeking appropriate support. Therefore, I don’t see a diagnosis, but an amazing human who wants to thrive despite life’s many challenges.
(630) 407-1782 View (630) 407-1782
Photo of Christine Aiello, MS, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Aiello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521  (Online Only)
I help individuals and couples with relationship conflict, sexual concerns, and adjustment to life transitions. Clients often come to therapy with some common issues: feeling disconnected in their relationship, having the same argument on repeat, unsatisfying sex, discomfort or awkwardness talking about sex and intimacy, mismatched desire, painful intercourse, wondering "is this normal?" and more. With advanced training in relationship and sex therapy, I’ll help you to identify your needs and goals, build skills and knowledge, and improve connection, trust, empathy, and intimacy in your life and relationships.
I help individuals and couples with relationship conflict, sexual concerns, and adjustment to life transitions. Clients often come to therapy with some common issues: feeling disconnected in their relationship, having the same argument on repeat, unsatisfying sex, discomfort or awkwardness talking about sex and intimacy, mismatched desire, painful intercourse, wondering "is this normal?" and more. With advanced training in relationship and sex therapy, I’ll help you to identify your needs and goals, build skills and knowledge, and improve connection, trust, empathy, and intimacy in your life and relationships.
(312) 766-7025 View (312) 766-7025
Photo of Gabrielle T. Abogado, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Gabrielle T. Abogado
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515  (Online Only)
I also use a variety of therapies and techniques specializing in client centered therapy, mindfulness, CBT, EFT, DBT, solution focused, narrative, and behavioral therapy.
I am here to support and promote mental health and healing the whole you by providing psychotherapy to you in a collaborative and therapeutic environment. When you are experiencing mental or emotional distress or personal difficulties I am here to help you overcome those challenges. As we build a strong therapeutic relationship I will help you learn how to manage and cope with emotional distress, trauma/PTSD, managing anxiety, anger management, self-image, depression, stress, LGBTQ+ issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, addiction, life changes, eating disorders, and/or crisis management.
I also use a variety of therapies and techniques specializing in client centered therapy, mindfulness, CBT, EFT, DBT, solution focused, narrative, and behavioral therapy.
I am here to support and promote mental health and healing the whole you by providing psychotherapy to you in a collaborative and therapeutic environment. When you are experiencing mental or emotional distress or personal difficulties I am here to help you overcome those challenges. As we build a strong therapeutic relationship I will help you learn how to manage and cope with emotional distress, trauma/PTSD, managing anxiety, anger management, self-image, depression, stress, LGBTQ+ issues, relationship problems, parenting issues, addiction, life changes, eating disorders, and/or crisis management.
(630) 556-8546 View (630) 556-8546
Photo of Wendi Lev - Wendi Lev, LCSW, ACSW, CADC-Lev Counseling Chicago, LCSW, ACSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendi Lev, LCSW, ACSW, CADC-Lev Counseling Chicago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
Drawing on my training in and ability to integrate CBT, ACT, DBT, psychodynamic, the Gottman Method & EFT couples counseling, addictions, sex therapy, and coaching, I strive to relieve symptoms and build toward long-term gains promptly.
Are you the person you want to be? Are you having difficulty in your relationship or career? Do you often feel as if you are not good enough? As a man, do you avoid or deny your feelings? Are you stung by a recent breakup/divorce? Ask yourself a different question. Are you ready to feel empowered and thrive? My goal is to help you increase self-awareness & make positive lasting changes in thoughts and behavior. I provide integrated therapy and consulting customized to your unique situation, goals, personality, strengths, and history. To help you become a better version of yourself and reach your unlimited potential.
Drawing on my training in and ability to integrate CBT, ACT, DBT, psychodynamic, the Gottman Method & EFT couples counseling, addictions, sex therapy, and coaching, I strive to relieve symptoms and build toward long-term gains promptly.
Are you the person you want to be? Are you having difficulty in your relationship or career? Do you often feel as if you are not good enough? As a man, do you avoid or deny your feelings? Are you stung by a recent breakup/divorce? Ask yourself a different question. Are you ready to feel empowered and thrive? My goal is to help you increase self-awareness & make positive lasting changes in thoughts and behavior. I provide integrated therapy and consulting customized to your unique situation, goals, personality, strengths, and history. To help you become a better version of yourself and reach your unlimited potential.
(773) 312-7918 View (773) 312-7918
Photo of Lindsey Rogers, LCPC, Counselor
Lindsey Rogers
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60521
When working with couples, I utilize Gottman techniques and EFT to address issues such as communication, parenting issues, and trust.
Have you been considering therapy for a while but something has gotten in the way? Did you try therapy in the past without arriving at your desired outcome? I look forward to working with you to take that next step and achieve your goals. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, and my clients describe me as positive, warm, and directive. I focus on building rapport and making clients feel comfortable, knowing that the therapeutic relationship can be so integral in facilitating change.
When working with couples, I utilize Gottman techniques and EFT to address issues such as communication, parenting issues, and trust.
Have you been considering therapy for a while but something has gotten in the way? Did you try therapy in the past without arriving at your desired outcome? I look forward to working with you to take that next step and achieve your goals. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based, and my clients describe me as positive, warm, and directive. I focus on building rapport and making clients feel comfortable, knowing that the therapeutic relationship can be so integral in facilitating change.
(331) 241-7928 View (331) 241-7928
Photo of Nicole Massey-Hastings, PsyD, LCP, PMH-C, Psychologist
Nicole Massey-Hastings
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
My goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting change and resilience. I am results-oriented. Many clients and parents report significant change in 4-8 sessions.I work with clients from many different walks of life and provide comprehensive counseling services for adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. My approach is collaborative, understanding, and caring, as well as evidence-based. I use a state-of-the art outcome assessment to ensure that your counseling is effective and individualized. Please see my website regarding my exclusive approach for families: The Harmonizing Your Home Program.
My goal is to help you build a more satisfying life by creating long-lasting change and resilience. I am results-oriented. Many clients and parents report significant change in 4-8 sessions.I work with clients from many different walks of life and provide comprehensive counseling services for adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families. My approach is collaborative, understanding, and caring, as well as evidence-based. I use a state-of-the art outcome assessment to ensure that your counseling is effective and individualized. Please see my website regarding my exclusive approach for families: The Harmonizing Your Home Program.
(630) 948-0374 View (630) 948-0374
Photo of Jenny Diamond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Diamond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515  (Online Only)
You may be at a point where you have exhausted all of your resources and known means of coping, and are seeking support in a trusting and nonjudgmental environment. Perhaps you're returning to therapy or trying it out for the first time. Either way, I can offer a neutral sounding board for challenges you are facing, and we can work together to develop strategies that work best for you and your experiences. You may also be a parent seeking ways to improve communication with your child/teen and guide them in a world where the influence of peers, social media, and other factors play a huge part in how they perceive life around them.
You may be at a point where you have exhausted all of your resources and known means of coping, and are seeking support in a trusting and nonjudgmental environment. Perhaps you're returning to therapy or trying it out for the first time. Either way, I can offer a neutral sounding board for challenges you are facing, and we can work together to develop strategies that work best for you and your experiences. You may also be a parent seeking ways to improve communication with your child/teen and guide them in a world where the influence of peers, social media, and other factors play a huge part in how they perceive life around them.
(630) 749-2207 View (630) 749-2207
Photo of William P. Russell, LCSW, LMFT, BCD, Marriage & Family Therapist
William P. Russell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, BCD
Verified Verified
Downers Grove, IL 60515  (Online Only)
For over 35 years I have worked with individuals, couples and families to solve problems, improve relationships and make life transitions. In this time I have learned to respect the uniqueness of each individual and family, as well as the abilities and courage they bring to the challenges they face. My approach is friendly, straightforward and solution-focused, but with appreciation for the variety and complexity of factors that may be involved with the issues that folks bring to therapy. I enjoy collaborating with clients to manage stress and modify the patterns of thinking, feeling and acting that concern them.
For over 35 years I have worked with individuals, couples and families to solve problems, improve relationships and make life transitions. In this time I have learned to respect the uniqueness of each individual and family, as well as the abilities and courage they bring to the challenges they face. My approach is friendly, straightforward and solution-focused, but with appreciation for the variety and complexity of factors that may be involved with the issues that folks bring to therapy. I enjoy collaborating with clients to manage stress and modify the patterns of thinking, feeling and acting that concern them.
(847) 440-3982 View (847) 440-3982

See more therapy options for Clarendon Hills

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.