Emotionally Focused Therapists in Ottawa, IL

Photo of Jamie Humphreys, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Humphreys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, IL 61350
Therapy is a tool that is to be used to improve your quality of life and help you achieve your goals. My mission is to help you identify the steps necessary to reach your individual goals and empower you to become the best version of yourself.
Therapy is a tool that is to be used to improve your quality of life and help you achieve your goals. My mission is to help you identify the steps necessary to reach your individual goals and empower you to become the best version of yourself.
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Photo of Angela Solis - Crossroads Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor
Crossroads Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor
Verified Verified
Ottawa, IL 61350
It’s no secret that life comes with struggles – or that those struggles can impact every part of a person’s life. No matter the age, gender, race, or overall walk of life, those struggles can interfere with one's mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. The good news is that counseling can help with everything from childhood trauma to day-day life. With that in mind, Crossroads Counseling Services opened its doors in April 2007 with the mission of helping residents of Plainfield, Ottawa, Morris, and Yorkville, IL deal with and overcome these issues and trauma.
It’s no secret that life comes with struggles – or that those struggles can impact every part of a person’s life. No matter the age, gender, race, or overall walk of life, those struggles can interfere with one's mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. The good news is that counseling can help with everything from childhood trauma to day-day life. With that in mind, Crossroads Counseling Services opened its doors in April 2007 with the mission of helping residents of Plainfield, Ottawa, Morris, and Yorkville, IL deal with and overcome these issues and trauma.
(815) 706-3279 View (815) 706-3279

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carla Gehle, LCPC
Carla Gehle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Grand Ridge, IL 61325
I have over a decade of experience helping motivate clients from many different backgrounds with a range of counseling needs using a solution-focused-client-centered approach to overcome their struggles in life. Using my skill set in cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing to guide my clients to their desired change. Her education includes a Masters in Counseling, Certified Behavior Change Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. I have also completed levels 1 and 2 of Gottman’s Relationship Method Therapy training.
I have over a decade of experience helping motivate clients from many different backgrounds with a range of counseling needs using a solution-focused-client-centered approach to overcome their struggles in life. Using my skill set in cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing to guide my clients to their desired change. Her education includes a Masters in Counseling, Certified Behavior Change Specialist, Certified Personal Trainer, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. I have also completed levels 1 and 2 of Gottman’s Relationship Method Therapy training.
(309) 598-1648 View (309) 598-1648
Photo of Carolyn Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marseilles, IL 61341
I am Carolyn Franklin, a licensed clinical social worker. I am a skilled therapist with over 30 years in the profession, working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have conducted individual, group, couples, and family therapies. I have worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issue, and many other concerns. I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I truly enjoy my work, and my clients have been successful. I worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family adjustments, and even individuals having difficulty making decisions.
I am Carolyn Franklin, a licensed clinical social worker. I am a skilled therapist with over 30 years in the profession, working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have conducted individual, group, couples, and family therapies. I have worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issue, and many other concerns. I welcome the opportunity to work with you. I truly enjoy my work, and my clients have been successful. I worked with clients challenged with anxiety, depression, relationship/family adjustments, and even individuals having difficulty making decisions.
(618) 268-1938 View (618) 268-1938

Online Therapists

Photo of Corey Wetzel, MA, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Corey Wetzel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045  (Online Only)
I'm highly-trained as a Licensed Professional Counselor, and trained in Gottman theory and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples counseling.
I am a firm believer that the greatest experiences and our most difficult moments include other people. Relationships with others are not always easy to navigate. Experiences we have with other people can have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. I love to support people exploring their relationship with themselves and how that can have a positive impact on our relationship with others. I have knowledge and experience working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, parenting, postpartum and identity issues.
I'm highly-trained as a Licensed Professional Counselor, and trained in Gottman theory and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples counseling.
I am a firm believer that the greatest experiences and our most difficult moments include other people. Relationships with others are not always easy to navigate. Experiences we have with other people can have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves and the world around us. I love to support people exploring their relationship with themselves and how that can have a positive impact on our relationship with others. I have knowledge and experience working with individuals and couples who have experienced trauma, loss, anxiety, depression, parenting, postpartum and identity issues.
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Photo of Maria Alejandra Ramirez, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maria Alejandra Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622  (Online Only)
Evidence based practices that inform my practice include: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness based treatment, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT for couples), Attachment, Regulation, and Competency (ARC) model.
My therapeutic approach is to fosters a space where the past, present, and future intersect in a way that healing, empowerment, and clear direction can flourish. I understand that life can at times be challenging, change can be destabilizing, and loss will cause pain. Through these life transitions one may at times need a safe space to cultivate hope and grow. I employ evidence based practices, cultural sensitivity and awareness to assist you in achieving your therapeutic goals.
Evidence based practices that inform my practice include: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness based treatment, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT for couples), Attachment, Regulation, and Competency (ARC) model.
My therapeutic approach is to fosters a space where the past, present, and future intersect in a way that healing, empowerment, and clear direction can flourish. I understand that life can at times be challenging, change can be destabilizing, and loss will cause pain. Through these life transitions one may at times need a safe space to cultivate hope and grow. I employ evidence based practices, cultural sensitivity and awareness to assist you in achieving your therapeutic goals.
(872) 231-3776 View (872) 231-3776
Photo of Philip A Kirk, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Philip A Kirk
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Are your feelings of sadness and anxiety preventing you from enjoying life? Are you struggling with relationship difficulties or life transitions? Do you feel stuck? Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner/spouse? Do you want to improve your communications? You are not alone. Seeking therapy is the 1st step toward achieving a more satisfying life and/or relief from suffering. The decision to seek therapy can be difficult but helpful when we are overwhelmed by life experiences and unhappy with relationships in our lives. Treatment is confidential. My office is located in a private, safe & comfortable setting.
Are your feelings of sadness and anxiety preventing you from enjoying life? Are you struggling with relationship difficulties or life transitions? Do you feel stuck? Do you desire closeness and greater intimacy with your partner/spouse? Do you want to improve your communications? You are not alone. Seeking therapy is the 1st step toward achieving a more satisfying life and/or relief from suffering. The decision to seek therapy can be difficult but helpful when we are overwhelmed by life experiences and unhappy with relationships in our lives. Treatment is confidential. My office is located in a private, safe & comfortable setting.
(815) 261-1617 View (815) 261-1617
Photo of Robert Ballantyne, PsyD, RYT-200, Psychologist
Robert Ballantyne
Psychologist, PsyD, RYT-200
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I have advanced training in EFT, one of the most effective couples approaches validated by research.
For the past 15+ years, I have had the pleasure of helping individuals and couples find relief from life's stressors. I work with a wide range of concerns and am especially effective with life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship, LGBTQ, grief, and family stressors. I aim to provide a safe, supportive, confidential space to help you deepen your self-understanding, change problematic patterns, and enhance self-esteem. As a feminist and multicultural therapist, I am also sensitive to the ways oppression/marginalization affect wellbeing. I welcome clients from all identities, and around half my caseload are people of color.
I have advanced training in EFT, one of the most effective couples approaches validated by research.
For the past 15+ years, I have had the pleasure of helping individuals and couples find relief from life's stressors. I work with a wide range of concerns and am especially effective with life transitions, depression, anxiety, relationship, LGBTQ, grief, and family stressors. I aim to provide a safe, supportive, confidential space to help you deepen your self-understanding, change problematic patterns, and enhance self-esteem. As a feminist and multicultural therapist, I am also sensitive to the ways oppression/marginalization affect wellbeing. I welcome clients from all identities, and around half my caseload are people of color.
(313) 307-4772 View (313) 307-4772
Photo of Carly Corso, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Corso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Some of the techniques that I incorporate into the therapeutic process include, but are not limited to: Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Integrative Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Positive Psychotherapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
I use a humanistic and strengths-based approach in efforts to focus on what is working for an individual at the time they enter therapy. Moreover, to ask the question of “What happened to you, and how did you survive?” Versus “What is wrong with you?” In using this approach, it allows me to honor the innate wisdom of an individual’s efforts to persevere, despite adverse life experiences. I aim to create a healthy alliance between the mind and body to increase the strengths that exist within each of us, discover adaptive skills of managing current stressors, and create intrinsically motivating strategies for sustainable life change.
Some of the techniques that I incorporate into the therapeutic process include, but are not limited to: Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Attachment Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Integrative Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Positive Psychotherapy, and Somatic Experiencing.
I use a humanistic and strengths-based approach in efforts to focus on what is working for an individual at the time they enter therapy. Moreover, to ask the question of “What happened to you, and how did you survive?” Versus “What is wrong with you?” In using this approach, it allows me to honor the innate wisdom of an individual’s efforts to persevere, despite adverse life experiences. I aim to create a healthy alliance between the mind and body to increase the strengths that exist within each of us, discover adaptive skills of managing current stressors, and create intrinsically motivating strategies for sustainable life change.
(815) 515-6429 View (815) 515-6429
Photo of Monique Prohaska-Slattery, LCPC, ATR, CYT, BSP, Counselor
Monique Prohaska-Slattery
Counselor, LCPC, ATR, CYT, BSP
Verified Verified
Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
In sessions I use ACT, CBT, Brainspotting, & Positive Psychology along with EFT, yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, & reiki when appropriate.
Accepting NEW Clients: Are you looking to find peace, perseverance, and resilience through everyday struggles? Imagine what it would feel like to not worry all the time or do the “what-if” dance in your mind. Imagine feeling capable to deal with whatever your day brings you. Whether your struggles are about a life transition, a relationship issue, experiencing stress, physical & emotional changes such as peri-menopause and menopause, or anything else that feels like "something's not quite right," finding a safe outlet to express yourself, build your coping skills, and find solutions is where your transformation begins.
In sessions I use ACT, CBT, Brainspotting, & Positive Psychology along with EFT, yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, & reiki when appropriate.
Accepting NEW Clients: Are you looking to find peace, perseverance, and resilience through everyday struggles? Imagine what it would feel like to not worry all the time or do the “what-if” dance in your mind. Imagine feeling capable to deal with whatever your day brings you. Whether your struggles are about a life transition, a relationship issue, experiencing stress, physical & emotional changes such as peri-menopause and menopause, or anything else that feels like "something's not quite right," finding a safe outlet to express yourself, build your coping skills, and find solutions is where your transformation begins.
(630) 473-9273 View (630) 473-9273
Photo of Sandra Stevens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with children, teens, adults and couples. She works from a person-centered approach and has training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. Bringing a background in fine arts, music, dance, and movement, Sandra utilizes an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with children, teens, adults and couples. She works from a person-centered approach and has training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. Bringing a background in fine arts, music, dance, and movement, Sandra utilizes an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals.
(708) 809-3952 View (708) 809-3952
Photo of Sarah A. Schroeder, MS, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah A. Schroeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evanston, IL 60201  (Online Only)
Modalities include play-based therapy, psychodynamic treatment, attachment-based therapy, emotionally focused therapy and mindfulness.
It's important that you find a therapist that is a right fit for you. I strive to create a safe holding environment where clients feel understood and encouraged to take their next step. I utilize a developmental framework and family systems approach, while viewing each client as a unique individual. I specialize in working with young children and families, providing individual, family, couples, and group treatment.
Modalities include play-based therapy, psychodynamic treatment, attachment-based therapy, emotionally focused therapy and mindfulness.
It's important that you find a therapist that is a right fit for you. I strive to create a safe holding environment where clients feel understood and encouraged to take their next step. I utilize a developmental framework and family systems approach, while viewing each client as a unique individual. I specialize in working with young children and families, providing individual, family, couples, and group treatment.
(872) 244-6873 View (872) 244-6873
Photo of Emily Breitweiser, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Emily Breitweiser
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Heyworth, IL 61745
I support my clients through an integrative approach using experiential and attachment-based therapies ( EFT & AEDP), neurocounseling, DBT, and ACT.
Now accepting new clients! I’m dedicated to walking alongside individuals ages 16+ and couples on their healing journeys. I specialize in supporting those facing grief, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I believe that each person is the expert on their own life, and my role is to create a safe and nurturing space where thoughts, feelings, and fears can be shared without judgment. With a warm, compassionate, and culturally sensitive trauma-informed approach, I strive to help clients feel supported and understood as they navigate their path of healing.
I support my clients through an integrative approach using experiential and attachment-based therapies ( EFT & AEDP), neurocounseling, DBT, and ACT.
Now accepting new clients! I’m dedicated to walking alongside individuals ages 16+ and couples on their healing journeys. I specialize in supporting those facing grief, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I believe that each person is the expert on their own life, and my role is to create a safe and nurturing space where thoughts, feelings, and fears can be shared without judgment. With a warm, compassionate, and culturally sensitive trauma-informed approach, I strive to help clients feel supported and understood as they navigate their path of healing.
(309) 448-4307 View (309) 448-4307
Photo of Emily Frey, PsyD, LCP, LCPC, Psychologist
Emily Frey
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60174
I meet my clients where they are at and can implement a variety of therapies depending on the need - EFT, CBT, and psychodynamic.
Do you feel like you're stuck? Or that it is difficult to manage your life or emotions? It is not easy to take the first step in seeking therapy but it can honestly change your life in the ways you are hoping. If you are struggling to find energy, motivation, quality relationships, or purpose, now is the time to take that first step to help yourself. This includes developing the capacity for emotion regulation, learning to self-soothe, assertiveness training, and building insight into the self. Dr. Emily Frey provides a warm, genuine, empathic environment for clients, while fostering sensitivity and vulnerability.
I meet my clients where they are at and can implement a variety of therapies depending on the need - EFT, CBT, and psychodynamic.
Do you feel like you're stuck? Or that it is difficult to manage your life or emotions? It is not easy to take the first step in seeking therapy but it can honestly change your life in the ways you are hoping. If you are struggling to find energy, motivation, quality relationships, or purpose, now is the time to take that first step to help yourself. This includes developing the capacity for emotion regulation, learning to self-soothe, assertiveness training, and building insight into the self. Dr. Emily Frey provides a warm, genuine, empathic environment for clients, while fostering sensitivity and vulnerability.
(847) 380-8502 View (847) 380-8502
Photo of Sarah Bedell, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Bedell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I integrate creativity and practical solutions with a relational focus, utilizing techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Life's challenges can feel isolating, but reaching out for support is a powerful step toward healing. I work with individuals, couples, and families impacted by trauma, depression, postpartum challenges, relationship difficulties, and the effects of incarceration. My goal is to help you cultivate a sense of inner safety and empower you to lead a more meaningful life. Whether you’re grappling with past experiences that influence your present, navigating the complexities of parenthood, or striving to strengthen your relationships, I’m here to support you.
I integrate creativity and practical solutions with a relational focus, utilizing techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), and Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Life's challenges can feel isolating, but reaching out for support is a powerful step toward healing. I work with individuals, couples, and families impacted by trauma, depression, postpartum challenges, relationship difficulties, and the effects of incarceration. My goal is to help you cultivate a sense of inner safety and empower you to lead a more meaningful life. Whether you’re grappling with past experiences that influence your present, navigating the complexities of parenthood, or striving to strengthen your relationships, I’m here to support you.
(630) 339-3761 View (630) 339-3761
Photo of Sunitha Rachel Chandy, PsyD, Psychologist
Sunitha Rachel Chandy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Our team has expertise in a variety of treatment styles and modalities, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based interventions, somatic experiencing, interpersonal interventions, EFT, Gottman couples therapy, attachment-based treatments, system theory, trauma-based treatment, person-centered, existential therapy, narrative therapy and motivational interviewing.
As the founder of Artesian Collaborative, it’s a privilege to work with a diverse team of psychologists, couples and family therapists, social workers, and counselors dedicated to supporting our community with the best of their fields. There’s a wealth of mental health resources, but there’s only one you. Our therapists are here to listen to your story, understand your strengths and sorrows, and support you in building the skills to reach your goals. The work you do will impact not only your life but also your relationships and community. Your culture, identity, experience, and values deserve to be seen and honored.
Our team has expertise in a variety of treatment styles and modalities, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based interventions, somatic experiencing, interpersonal interventions, EFT, Gottman couples therapy, attachment-based treatments, system theory, trauma-based treatment, person-centered, existential therapy, narrative therapy and motivational interviewing.
As the founder of Artesian Collaborative, it’s a privilege to work with a diverse team of psychologists, couples and family therapists, social workers, and counselors dedicated to supporting our community with the best of their fields. There’s a wealth of mental health resources, but there’s only one you. Our therapists are here to listen to your story, understand your strengths and sorrows, and support you in building the skills to reach your goals. The work you do will impact not only your life but also your relationships and community. Your culture, identity, experience, and values deserve to be seen and honored.
(773) 839-4606 View (773) 839-4606
Photo of Eric J. Lindquist, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eric J. Lindquist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61107
I utilize Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy to help each individual recognize how their emotions affect the relationship and contributes to the current pattern of distress in their relationship.
Life can be difficult to navigate, and the intense emotions that come with it can leave us feeling stuck. We long to have a life full of meaning, value, and fulfillment. My approach is to meet you where you are at emotionally and provide a safe place to meet those needs. I am passionate about working with both individuals and couples to help strengthen their relationships, utilize their strengths, and reach their full potential.
I utilize Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy to help each individual recognize how their emotions affect the relationship and contributes to the current pattern of distress in their relationship.
Life can be difficult to navigate, and the intense emotions that come with it can leave us feeling stuck. We long to have a life full of meaning, value, and fulfillment. My approach is to meet you where you are at emotionally and provide a safe place to meet those needs. I am passionate about working with both individuals and couples to help strengthen their relationships, utilize their strengths, and reach their full potential.
(815) 290-0638 View (815) 290-0638
Photo of Ileana Ungureanu, MD, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ileana Ungureanu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MD, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I am passionate in working with relational issues, either when helping individuals or couples and families. I believe that our relationships have an essential impact on our well-being. I am yet to hear a client or a friend or a family member talk about distress that is not somehow associated to a relational issue... Aren't we all longing to belong and to find safety and security in the arms of our loved ones (partners, parents or very dear friends that are like family)? And yet, these are precisely the people that can hurt us the most.
I am passionate in working with relational issues, either when helping individuals or couples and families. I believe that our relationships have an essential impact on our well-being. I am yet to hear a client or a friend or a family member talk about distress that is not somehow associated to a relational issue... Aren't we all longing to belong and to find safety and security in the arms of our loved ones (partners, parents or very dear friends that are like family)? And yet, these are precisely the people that can hurt us the most.
(312) 818-3684 View (312) 818-3684
Photo of Erin Wold - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Joliet
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Joliet
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Joliet, IL 60435
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Dr. Gina Bogin, PhD, LCSW, CPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Gina Bogin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
My approach is to identify strengths and protective factors so the therapeutic process can be individualized using techniques such as introspective prompts, Somatic Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques ( EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), role-play and one-on-one heart-to-heart talking.
My experience includes 29 years as a school social worker helping teens and those parenting them to manage the special challenges of depression, anxiety, sexual assault, trauma, low-self-esteem, and the stress of caring for another. Additionally, I have experience as a Victim Advocate working with those who have experienced sexual assault. As a previous caretaker for my own parents, I understand the stresses and joys of caring for a parent or spouse who are dealing with the impact of age and illness.
My approach is to identify strengths and protective factors so the therapeutic process can be individualized using techniques such as introspective prompts, Somatic Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques ( EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), role-play and one-on-one heart-to-heart talking.
My experience includes 29 years as a school social worker helping teens and those parenting them to manage the special challenges of depression, anxiety, sexual assault, trauma, low-self-esteem, and the stress of caring for another. Additionally, I have experience as a Victim Advocate working with those who have experienced sexual assault. As a previous caretaker for my own parents, I understand the stresses and joys of caring for a parent or spouse who are dealing with the impact of age and illness.
(779) 804-2552 View (779) 804-2552

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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.