Emotionally Focused Therapists in Columbia City, IN

Photo of Mackenzie Rice, LMHC, MA, PsyD, Counselor
Mackenzie Rice
Counselor, LMHC, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Columbia City, IN 46725
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Intrapersonal Therapy (IPT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Client-Centered Therapy (CCT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and other treatment modalities for individuals struggling with addiction.
I view therapy as a healing journey that is uniquely tailored to your needs. My approach is to create a supportive and collaborative environment where we work together to address the challenges you're facing. I believe in empowering you to take an active role in your healing, helping you build the skills and resilience needed to achieve your personal goals in therapy. My aim is to guide you towards a path of growth and well-being, where you feel more confident and capable of navigating life's challenges.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Intrapersonal Therapy (IPT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Client-Centered Therapy (CCT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and other treatment modalities for individuals struggling with addiction.
I view therapy as a healing journey that is uniquely tailored to your needs. My approach is to create a supportive and collaborative environment where we work together to address the challenges you're facing. I believe in empowering you to take an active role in your healing, helping you build the skills and resilience needed to achieve your personal goals in therapy. My aim is to guide you towards a path of growth and well-being, where you feel more confident and capable of navigating life's challenges.
(260) 829-3067 View (260) 829-3067
Photo of Anne Devine, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Devine
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbia City, IN 46725
Waitlist for 5:00 or later appointments. As a Certified Sex Therapist, I help committed couples fix their sexual issues and create connected, happy relationships. My clients may worry about speaking to an outsider about their struggles, but I'm not afraid to tackle the hard things about relationships and intimacy with knowledge, humor, and compassion. A poor sex life can cause arguments, pulling away, and sometimes the end of partnerships. If you're ready to work for the sex life you want and deserve, I'd love to help you achieve it. To learn more about me, visit my website at annedevine.net, or watch my videos on Youtube.
Waitlist for 5:00 or later appointments. As a Certified Sex Therapist, I help committed couples fix their sexual issues and create connected, happy relationships. My clients may worry about speaking to an outsider about their struggles, but I'm not afraid to tackle the hard things about relationships and intimacy with knowledge, humor, and compassion. A poor sex life can cause arguments, pulling away, and sometimes the end of partnerships. If you're ready to work for the sex life you want and deserve, I'd love to help you achieve it. To learn more about me, visit my website at annedevine.net, or watch my videos on Youtube.
(260) 440-3912 View (260) 440-3912
Photo of Joel Mcarthur - McArthur Counseling Center, LMHC, LCAC, Counselor
McArthur Counseling Center
Counselor, LMHC, LCAC
Verified Verified
Columbia City, IN 46725
McArthur Counseling center aims to provide personalized treatment for every client. We pride ourselves in being a "full service" agency offering all types of counseling, testing and medication options. Our counselors have a variety of specialties including: anger management, depression, marital problems, anxiety, developmental disorders and substance abuse, just to name a few. Our on staff Psychologist is licensed to administer over 35 different psychological and educational testing instruments. Our on staff Psychiatrist and Nurse Practitioners offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management services with day and evening hours.
McArthur Counseling center aims to provide personalized treatment for every client. We pride ourselves in being a "full service" agency offering all types of counseling, testing and medication options. Our counselors have a variety of specialties including: anger management, depression, marital problems, anxiety, developmental disorders and substance abuse, just to name a few. Our on staff Psychologist is licensed to administer over 35 different psychological and educational testing instruments. Our on staff Psychiatrist and Nurse Practitioners offer psychiatric evaluations and medication management services with day and evening hours.
(574) 231-7292 View (574) 231-7292
Photo of Chase G Parnell, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Chase G Parnell
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Columbia City, IN 46725
Need help? Are you feeling too afraid, angry, or alone? Reaching out for assistance can be an important step to building internal strength and gaining control over one's emotions. Many may feel guilt or shame in being out of control with these feelings, yet seeking help may be the most effective path to gaining the skills and growing as individuals.
Need help? Are you feeling too afraid, angry, or alone? Reaching out for assistance can be an important step to building internal strength and gaining control over one's emotions. Many may feel guilt or shame in being out of control with these feelings, yet seeking help may be the most effective path to gaining the skills and growing as individuals.
(260) 297-3706 View (260) 297-3706
Photo of Michelle Korporal, LCSW, CADACII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Korporal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADACII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia City, IN 46725
I have experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. I have worked in community mental health, home-based case management, private practice, and medical settings.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. I have worked in community mental health, home-based case management, private practice, and medical settings.
(260) 204-8287 View (260) 204-8287
Photo of Laura Jacobs, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Jacobs
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Columbia City, IN 46725
The counseling process can and should involve exploring goals and needs. It is ok to have an idea of how counseling can help, and it's okay to let me help you explore that topic. Not everyone knows what they want or why. And, sometimes, what we want and need changes. The ideal client is willing to show up and do some exploring.
The counseling process can and should involve exploring goals and needs. It is ok to have an idea of how counseling can help, and it's okay to let me help you explore that topic. Not everyone knows what they want or why. And, sometimes, what we want and need changes. The ideal client is willing to show up and do some exploring.
(260) 908-9495 View (260) 908-9495
Photo of Michelle Hively, MSEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Hively
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia City, IN 46725
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families identify how past experiences impact current perceptions of self, relationships, and safety in the world. I work with meeting clients where they are at and support them in this journey. I utilize psychoeducation and mindfulness techniques to help clients gain awareness of the mind-body connection. I have been trained in models including; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Flash Technique for working through trauma, Restoration Therapy, and I have completed Levels 1 and 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I am passionate about helping adolescents, adults, couples, and families identify how past experiences impact current perceptions of self, relationships, and safety in the world. I work with meeting clients where they are at and support them in this journey. I utilize psychoeducation and mindfulness techniques to help clients gain awareness of the mind-body connection. I have been trained in models including; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Flash Technique for working through trauma, Restoration Therapy, and I have completed Levels 1 and 2 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
(260) 217-5329 View (260) 217-5329

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jason Cussen, MBA, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jason Cussen
Counselor, MBA, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46818  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks personal growth and healing from issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems. They need emotional support, coping strategies, self-understanding, and guidance for healthy relationships. Their goals include symptom reduction, trauma healing, improved relationships, enhanced self-worth, and greater life satisfaction. Motivated by desires for personal growth, joyful moments, connection, resilience, and clarity, they seek therapy to achieve a healthier, improved life rhythm.
My ideal client seeks personal growth and healing from issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems. They need emotional support, coping strategies, self-understanding, and guidance for healthy relationships. Their goals include symptom reduction, trauma healing, improved relationships, enhanced self-worth, and greater life satisfaction. Motivated by desires for personal growth, joyful moments, connection, resilience, and clarity, they seek therapy to achieve a healthier, improved life rhythm.
(260) 368-5696 View (260) 368-5696

Online Therapists

Photo of Michele O'Mara, LCSW, PhD, IMAGO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele O'Mara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, IMAGO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fishers, IN 46037  (Online Only)
I'm Certified in Imago and Discernment, trained on all 3 Levels of Gottman Method, and have EFT training.
Couple's counseling and sexual health is my passion. Infidelity, cheating, and emotional affairs. Lack of sexual desire. Communication, loss of connection, and healing old hurts and resentments are common issues addressed in my practice. I'd love to meet you (I do see individuals), or you and your partner (same-sex couples, heterosexual couples, polyamorous couples). You can schedule with me directly online from my webpage: micheleomara.com
I'm Certified in Imago and Discernment, trained on all 3 Levels of Gottman Method, and have EFT training.
Couple's counseling and sexual health is my passion. Infidelity, cheating, and emotional affairs. Lack of sexual desire. Communication, loss of connection, and healing old hurts and resentments are common issues addressed in my practice. I'd love to meet you (I do see individuals), or you and your partner (same-sex couples, heterosexual couples, polyamorous couples). You can schedule with me directly online from my webpage: micheleomara.com
(317) 207-2795 View (317) 207-2795
Photo of Lotus Of Life - Lotus of Life Counseling, MSW, LCSW, LMHC, LMHCA, Interns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lotus of Life Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMHC, LMHCA, Interns
Verified Verified
Westfield, IN 46074
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused, Existential Therapy, and Solutions Focused, Gottman Couples Therapy.
Lotus of Life Counseling provides services for children, adults, and couples. Our team has extensive experience and specializes in various areas, including chronic health conditions, grief and loss, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, depression, school, academic and career issues, social and emotional challenges, disordered eating, LGBTQ+ matters, couples counseling, perinatal and infant loss, and more. We offer appointments at our locations in Westfield and the East Side of Indy, as well as through virtual sessions. Please contact us to find out which provider would best meet your needs!
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused, Existential Therapy, and Solutions Focused, Gottman Couples Therapy.
Lotus of Life Counseling provides services for children, adults, and couples. Our team has extensive experience and specializes in various areas, including chronic health conditions, grief and loss, Autism Spectrum Disorder, anxiety, depression, school, academic and career issues, social and emotional challenges, disordered eating, LGBTQ+ matters, couples counseling, perinatal and infant loss, and more. We offer appointments at our locations in Westfield and the East Side of Indy, as well as through virtual sessions. Please contact us to find out which provider would best meet your needs!
(317) 854-5804 View (317) 854-5804
Photo of Ashley Mangus, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Mangus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Emotion Focused (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Gottman and Attachment-Based Therapy.
I believe that in order to be happy and healthy, we must nourish the whole person. As you begin your journey towards healing, I recognize the great courage it takes to seek help. My goal is to help you discover your true potential and form healthy relationships along the way. I strongly believe that each of us holds the power to change and create the life that we desire. You may feel stuck, not know exactly where to go for help, who the best person would be to talk to, or what to expect from therapy. These are normal questions and concerns. I want to assure you...You are at the right place.
I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Emotion Focused (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Gottman and Attachment-Based Therapy.
I believe that in order to be happy and healthy, we must nourish the whole person. As you begin your journey towards healing, I recognize the great courage it takes to seek help. My goal is to help you discover your true potential and form healthy relationships along the way. I strongly believe that each of us holds the power to change and create the life that we desire. You may feel stuck, not know exactly where to go for help, who the best person would be to talk to, or what to expect from therapy. These are normal questions and concerns. I want to assure you...You are at the right place.
(317) 527-4918 View (317) 527-4918
Photo of Amber Behrouzvaziri, LMHC, Counselor
Amber Behrouzvaziri
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carmel, IN 46032
I am trained in EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Are you tired of just being listened to and actually want to feel and get better? Do you want real solutions and progress? Do you want lasting relief from trauma and relationship woes? All of these things are possible with the right therapist. If you have had unhelpful therapy experiences in the past, please know it can be different. I have had clients tell me a few months of our work together has been more helpful than the years of therapy they have had in the past. Whether you are healing from trauma, working through grief, working through a breakup/divorce or wanting to improve your relationship, I am here to support you.
I am trained in EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
Are you tired of just being listened to and actually want to feel and get better? Do you want real solutions and progress? Do you want lasting relief from trauma and relationship woes? All of these things are possible with the right therapist. If you have had unhelpful therapy experiences in the past, please know it can be different. I have had clients tell me a few months of our work together has been more helpful than the years of therapy they have had in the past. Whether you are healing from trauma, working through grief, working through a breakup/divorce or wanting to improve your relationship, I am here to support you.
(463) 223-9540 View (463) 223-9540
Photo of Dawn Clay, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Clay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250  (Online Only)
I am also certified in and actively work with Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT, also known as “tapping”), HeartMath Institute, Sound Healing, and Biofield Tuning.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have 18 years experience working in a medical setting providing therapeutic support and resources to patients and families receiving hospital, home healthcare, and hospice services. When my own health issues created the need for me to step away from my professional role, I became more devoted to caring for my inner self. Through my own journey, I have become more holistically minded and embrace a mind-body-spirit approach in everything life brings to me. It is my goal to use my gifts and talents to help others heal in a more fully integrated way. In addition to my Clinical licensure.
I am also certified in and actively work with Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT, also known as “tapping”), HeartMath Institute, Sound Healing, and Biofield Tuning.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have 18 years experience working in a medical setting providing therapeutic support and resources to patients and families receiving hospital, home healthcare, and hospice services. When my own health issues created the need for me to step away from my professional role, I became more devoted to caring for my inner self. Through my own journey, I have become more holistically minded and embrace a mind-body-spirit approach in everything life brings to me. It is my goal to use my gifts and talents to help others heal in a more fully integrated way. In addition to my Clinical licensure.
(463) 363-3832 View (463) 363-3832
Photo of Elvery N Tinsley, MS Ed, LMHCA, Counselor
Elvery N Tinsley
Counselor, MS Ed, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
My holistic approach combines evidence-based techniques such as Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Mindfulness practices.
Are you struggling to feel connected in your relationships? Many of my clients feel disconnected or overwhelmed as partners, parents, or individuals. Whether you're a couple seeking to strengthen your bond, a woman navigating life’s transitions, or a teen coping with pressures, I understand your unique challenges and am here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your feelings. Together, we can build deeper connections, enhance self-awareness, and develop skills for thriving relationships.
My holistic approach combines evidence-based techniques such as Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Mindfulness practices.
Are you struggling to feel connected in your relationships? Many of my clients feel disconnected or overwhelmed as partners, parents, or individuals. Whether you're a couple seeking to strengthen your bond, a woman navigating life’s transitions, or a teen coping with pressures, I understand your unique challenges and am here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your feelings. Together, we can build deeper connections, enhance self-awareness, and develop skills for thriving relationships.
(317) 207-0497 View (317) 207-0497
Photo of Brad Unruh, IMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brad Unruh
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46060  (Online Only)
I have advanced training in Internal Family Systems and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am trained to target emotional experiences to activate internal healing and external connection. I assist couples by facilitating an environment that safely moves folks towards security in self and towards one another in vulnerability so that bonding can replace the need for self-preservation. With individuals, I welcome all parts of each person as one establishes security in and expansion of self which helps parts of self recognize: "parts cope, self heals." I view people as "stuck" and not "sick," and therefore I believe just as there is a healer in me, there is a healer in you.
I have advanced training in Internal Family Systems and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I am trained to target emotional experiences to activate internal healing and external connection. I assist couples by facilitating an environment that safely moves folks towards security in self and towards one another in vulnerability so that bonding can replace the need for self-preservation. With individuals, I welcome all parts of each person as one establishes security in and expansion of self which helps parts of self recognize: "parts cope, self heals." I view people as "stuck" and not "sick," and therefore I believe just as there is a healer in me, there is a healer in you.
(614) 368-0961 View (614) 368-0961
Photo of Alexandra L. McKay, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alexandra L. McKay
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47905
For couples, EFT provides a nurturing framework to explore emotions and attachment patterns.
Are you seeking a supportive space to heal, care for yourself, or explore the dynamics of your relationships? I specialize in guiding individuals, couples, and families through interpersonal and personal difficulties. Common concerns my advanced training equips me to work with include anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, intimacy issues, and trauma. My therapeutic approach integrates the evidence-based approaches of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), offering a holistic and personalized path to wellness.
For couples, EFT provides a nurturing framework to explore emotions and attachment patterns.
Are you seeking a supportive space to heal, care for yourself, or explore the dynamics of your relationships? I specialize in guiding individuals, couples, and families through interpersonal and personal difficulties. Common concerns my advanced training equips me to work with include anxiety, depression, relationship conflict, intimacy issues, and trauma. My therapeutic approach integrates the evidence-based approaches of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), offering a holistic and personalized path to wellness.
(765) 945-2226 View (765) 945-2226
Photo of Leslie Inlow, LCSW, LCAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Inlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Noblesville, IN 46060
My approach is called Emotionally Focused Therapy, which is an evidence based treatment for couples who are disconnected and unhappy in the relationship.
You and your partner can’t seem to stop fighting. It seems like things are going along fine, and then something small happens. You may be on a walk or in the car, and all of a sudden there’s a shift and you’re arguing again. Most of the time, you don’t even know what you’re arguing about! Perhaps there has even been a deep pain of some kind, infidelity or another betrayal or rupture to your bond. You realize you need some help to work through it if you don't want to lose your relationship.
My approach is called Emotionally Focused Therapy, which is an evidence based treatment for couples who are disconnected and unhappy in the relationship.
You and your partner can’t seem to stop fighting. It seems like things are going along fine, and then something small happens. You may be on a walk or in the car, and all of a sudden there’s a shift and you’re arguing again. Most of the time, you don’t even know what you’re arguing about! Perhaps there has even been a deep pain of some kind, infidelity or another betrayal or rupture to your bond. You realize you need some help to work through it if you don't want to lose your relationship.
(317) 674-1124 View (317) 674-1124
Photo of Kathy A Harting, LMHC, Counselor
Kathy A Harting
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I am also a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, with additional training in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Most people seek therapy to reduce hurts that are causing suffering; increase a sense of wellbeing, love with more generosity and gain wisdom and skill. The greatest benefits of therapy come from self-reflection, increased ability for emotional expression and flexibility and exploration of things that block those desires - fears, old hurts, walls built up, addiction, traumas, etc. Whatever your struggles, your goals for change are often determined by our perseverance together. It is often not easy, but it is worth the effort.
I am also a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, with additional training in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Most people seek therapy to reduce hurts that are causing suffering; increase a sense of wellbeing, love with more generosity and gain wisdom and skill. The greatest benefits of therapy come from self-reflection, increased ability for emotional expression and flexibility and exploration of things that block those desires - fears, old hurts, walls built up, addiction, traumas, etc. Whatever your struggles, your goals for change are often determined by our perseverance together. It is often not easy, but it is worth the effort.
(317) 666-8864 View (317) 666-8864
Photo of Suzanne Coyle, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne Coyle
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46208
I completed an Externship in Emotionally Focused Therapy with Sue Johnson at Ackerman Institute in New York where I received my family systems training well as the Advanced Core Skills Training in EFT.
Enabling individuals, couples, and families to make meaning out of their life stories is my main goal. Focusing on the meaning of your relationships can enrich your life. I enjoy working with couples as well as famiies of all sort--families of procreation, adoption, and choice. In addition to counseling, I consult with family businesses, non-profits, and congregations. In my role as Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Christian Theological Seminary, I supervise students to move toward their licensure as therapists. I provide private supervision and coaching on a limited basis through my credential as an AAMFT Approved Supervisor.
I completed an Externship in Emotionally Focused Therapy with Sue Johnson at Ackerman Institute in New York where I received my family systems training well as the Advanced Core Skills Training in EFT.
Enabling individuals, couples, and families to make meaning out of their life stories is my main goal. Focusing on the meaning of your relationships can enrich your life. I enjoy working with couples as well as famiies of all sort--families of procreation, adoption, and choice. In addition to counseling, I consult with family businesses, non-profits, and congregations. In my role as Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program at Christian Theological Seminary, I supervise students to move toward their licensure as therapists. I provide private supervision and coaching on a limited basis through my credential as an AAMFT Approved Supervisor.
(317) 622-0871 View (317) 622-0871
Photo of Jahrae Hampton, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Jahrae Hampton
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Wayne, IN 46802
I utilize mindfulness skills, self-compassion, attachment theory, and a person-centered lens applied through the framework of Emotionally Focused Therapy as well incorporating EMDR and Somatic practices to empower my clients to learn and embrace self-acceptance as they heal.
Do you struggle to understand yourself? Do you struggle to move through healthy conflict resolution with your partner? As your therapist, I can help you with these issues and attend to any early attachment issues that may be impacting you. You will learn how to work through limiting negative beliefs and how your past experiences impact you today. My clients often seek therapy because they want to uncover the meanings behind their emotions; together, we can often uncover the meaning behind these emotions by better understanding past traumas encountered.
I utilize mindfulness skills, self-compassion, attachment theory, and a person-centered lens applied through the framework of Emotionally Focused Therapy as well incorporating EMDR and Somatic practices to empower my clients to learn and embrace self-acceptance as they heal.
Do you struggle to understand yourself? Do you struggle to move through healthy conflict resolution with your partner? As your therapist, I can help you with these issues and attend to any early attachment issues that may be impacting you. You will learn how to work through limiting negative beliefs and how your past experiences impact you today. My clients often seek therapy because they want to uncover the meanings behind their emotions; together, we can often uncover the meaning behind these emotions by better understanding past traumas encountered.
(260) 204-8378 x4 View (260) 204-8378 x4

See more therapy options for Columbia City

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.