Emotionally Focused Therapists in Belchertown, MA
![Photo of Dr. Andreya Wilde Phd, PhD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8da6ac3d-493d-45d8-8307-c002c2d0c39b/1/320x400.jpeg)
WHAT GOOD IS A THERAPY IF YOU CAN'T COMPLETELY TRUST YOUR THERAPIST? CONFIDENTIALITY MUST BE "CARVED IN STONE". There is an illusion of privacy that truly doesn't exist when using insurance for your therapy. Personal details and a "Clinical Diagnosis" labeling you with a MENTAL ILLNESS is entered into permanent files, and can be accessed far more easily than you realize. FOR YOU TO FEEL SAFE & AUTHENTIC IN YOUR THERAPY, I DO NOT TAKE INSURANCE, OR KEEP CLINICAL NOTES & HAVE NO "PAPER TRAIL". What I Do Have is a Deep Devoted Love for this Work, and Great Respect for your Very Personal Choices on Your Life's Journey.
WHAT GOOD IS A THERAPY IF YOU CAN'T COMPLETELY TRUST YOUR THERAPIST? CONFIDENTIALITY MUST BE "CARVED IN STONE". There is an illusion of privacy that truly doesn't exist when using insurance for your therapy. Personal details and a "Clinical Diagnosis" labeling you with a MENTAL ILLNESS is entered into permanent files, and can be accessed far more easily than you realize. FOR YOU TO FEEL SAFE & AUTHENTIC IN YOUR THERAPY, I DO NOT TAKE INSURANCE, OR KEEP CLINICAL NOTES & HAVE NO "PAPER TRAIL". What I Do Have is a Deep Devoted Love for this Work, and Great Respect for your Very Personal Choices on Your Life's Journey.
![Photo of Kate Dahlstedt, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a97114-3316-48f1-95fc-12300a143d2d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ready to dive deep? As a graduate of Hartford Family Institute, I am a seasoned guide with 40 years of experience. I’m here to help you untangle life's complexities in a friendly, down-to-earth manner. Would you like more joy and satisfaction in your life? Are you longing to be your more authentic self? I would be happy to meet and give you my genuine, compassionate attention. I have 40 years of experience helping people take a deep dive into how they got to where they are, untangle the gnarled web beneath the surface and understand themselves in new and empowering ways.
Ready to dive deep? As a graduate of Hartford Family Institute, I am a seasoned guide with 40 years of experience. I’m here to help you untangle life's complexities in a friendly, down-to-earth manner. Would you like more joy and satisfaction in your life? Are you longing to be your more authentic self? I would be happy to meet and give you my genuine, compassionate attention. I have 40 years of experience helping people take a deep dive into how they got to where they are, untangle the gnarled web beneath the surface and understand themselves in new and empowering ways.
![Photo of Steve Opalenik, M Ed, LMHC, CMHIMP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/632dff21-a24d-4e8c-81ad-f935fa70224a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in using mindfulness, meditation, movement, nutrition, supplementation, and holistic modalities. I enjoy working with people seeking to make a change in their health and discover their inner-potential. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults, elderly, couples and families.
I specialize in using mindfulness, meditation, movement, nutrition, supplementation, and holistic modalities. I enjoy working with people seeking to make a change in their health and discover their inner-potential. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults, elderly, couples and families.
![Photo of Sarah Teitelbaum, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/460f337b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My role as a psychologist is to help you learn, get unstuck, and take control in your life. By creating a safe, nonjudgmental space, I hope to encourage your sense of connection, empowerment, and insight as we address your concerns. I believe the quality of the therapist-client relationship is the most important foundation of good therapy, and I work collaboratively with clients using several approaches, including CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based psychotherapy.
My role as a psychologist is to help you learn, get unstuck, and take control in your life. By creating a safe, nonjudgmental space, I hope to encourage your sense of connection, empowerment, and insight as we address your concerns. I believe the quality of the therapist-client relationship is the most important foundation of good therapy, and I work collaboratively with clients using several approaches, including CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based psychotherapy.
![Photo of Paul Harris Sandman, EdD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40ac7b93-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
My ideal clients are interested in improving their self awareness of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I treat any of the following issues: depression, anxiety, anger, substance abuse, relationship issues, sexual behaviors, trauma, domestic violence, low self-esteem, eating disorders, attention deficit difficulties, autism, schizophrenia, stress management, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, child behavior and attitude problems, school behavior, low motivation, weight loss, quitting smoking, grief and loss of a loved one, divorce, parenting issues, co-dependency, pain management, social skills development, bi-polar disorder, abusive family situations, work problems, shame/inappropriate guilt, and negative thinking but treat many more issues.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kerry Lusignan - Northampton Center For Couples Therapy, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e583d17d-37a0-4123-aaec-64f764bccb2b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Northampton Center For Couples Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002
When your relationship is in crisis, your whole life is in crisis. Is there anything more ungrounding than a rocky connection between two people? If your marriage or partnership isn’t working, you know all too well the dis-ease of not being on the same page. At worst, you feel hopeless. Receiving specialized help and guidance is the most effective way to move through this painfully discordant time. My hand-picked therapists and I specialize exclusively in treating couples using evidence-informed gold-standard models, including Gottman Method Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Pragmatic Experiential Therapy.
When your relationship is in crisis, your whole life is in crisis. Is there anything more ungrounding than a rocky connection between two people? If your marriage or partnership isn’t working, you know all too well the dis-ease of not being on the same page. At worst, you feel hopeless. Receiving specialized help and guidance is the most effective way to move through this painfully discordant time. My hand-picked therapists and I specialize exclusively in treating couples using evidence-informed gold-standard models, including Gottman Method Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Pragmatic Experiential Therapy.
![Photo of Celia Mackinnon, LMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46dbc2c2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Celia Mackinnon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicopee, MA 01022
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for considering my profile. I am licensed both as a Mental Health Counseler and a Marriage and Family Therapist. A guiding belief in my work is an unconditional regard for the individual value of each person. I have a variety of training (Pyschodynamic, cognitive behavioral, relational EFT, EMDR etc.)and use an ecelectic approach. I have been working with children and their families in a varity of settings, for almost 30 years. I have extensive experience working with a variety of diagnosis. I also have a bachelor degree in working with Young Children with Special Needs.
Thank you for considering my profile. I am licensed both as a Mental Health Counseler and a Marriage and Family Therapist. A guiding belief in my work is an unconditional regard for the individual value of each person. I have a variety of training (Pyschodynamic, cognitive behavioral, relational EFT, EMDR etc.)and use an ecelectic approach. I have been working with children and their families in a varity of settings, for almost 30 years. I have extensive experience working with a variety of diagnosis. I also have a bachelor degree in working with Young Children with Special Needs.
![Photo of Alexis Truslow, MS, CAS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5337b160-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Evidence-based treatment approaches include: EMDR, EFT, CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
Alexis is an interactive, client-centered therapist whose approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. She considers the interrelationship between the mind and body paramount. Alexis has over 30 years of experience specializing in adult therapy, couples therapy, relationship coaching, life coaching, and clinical consultation.
Evidence-based treatment approaches include: EMDR, EFT, CBT and Motivational Interviewing.
Alexis is an interactive, client-centered therapist whose approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. She considers the interrelationship between the mind and body paramount. Alexis has over 30 years of experience specializing in adult therapy, couples therapy, relationship coaching, life coaching, and clinical consultation.
![Photo of Sandra L Kelly, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3094d8b2-ac1a-49c7-9d2c-29c7e5999df2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra L Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01004 (Online Only)
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Emotionally Focused Techniques (tapping).
Do you want to make change but are feeling unmotivated, stuck, anxious, unfilled, or depressed? Change is both challenging and rewarding. My role is to help you identify these feelings and to help provide additional perspective, support, and help you to live a more fulfilling, authentic existence. Using a variety of therapeutic approaches, I can help you to clarify and connect with your core values (what matters most), and take action to move in the direction of fulfillment.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and Emotionally Focused Techniques (tapping).
Do you want to make change but are feeling unmotivated, stuck, anxious, unfilled, or depressed? Change is both challenging and rewarding. My role is to help you identify these feelings and to help provide additional perspective, support, and help you to live a more fulfilling, authentic existence. Using a variety of therapeutic approaches, I can help you to clarify and connect with your core values (what matters most), and take action to move in the direction of fulfillment.
![Photo of Paula Shulman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d6e84b4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a dynamic, experiential approach that helps people access core emotions and find fulfilling connection thru secure attachment.
I support people to transform life's challenges into a mosaic of internal wisdom. I passionately embrace the power of loving relationships to help shift from feeling burdened by past wounds to compassionate self-acceptance. I facilitate secure attachment and fulfilling relationships. My natural empathy offers a safe space to heal emotional wounds, ruptured relationships, limiting behaviors, non-supporting beliefs, attachment injuries, trauma, loss, grief. In Internal Family Systems (IFS), we access our Core/Wise Self (intrinsic wholeness) - compassion, confidence, calm, creativity, courage, curiosity, connection. In deep Self-attunement, we gently invite wounded internal parts to come forth and heal.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a dynamic, experiential approach that helps people access core emotions and find fulfilling connection thru secure attachment.
I support people to transform life's challenges into a mosaic of internal wisdom. I passionately embrace the power of loving relationships to help shift from feeling burdened by past wounds to compassionate self-acceptance. I facilitate secure attachment and fulfilling relationships. My natural empathy offers a safe space to heal emotional wounds, ruptured relationships, limiting behaviors, non-supporting beliefs, attachment injuries, trauma, loss, grief. In Internal Family Systems (IFS), we access our Core/Wise Self (intrinsic wholeness) - compassion, confidence, calm, creativity, courage, curiosity, connection. In deep Self-attunement, we gently invite wounded internal parts to come forth and heal.
![Photo of Yao Deng, LMHCA, MS, MPhil, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7de257f-f347-4e3b-a8cd-ef96e791a2cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Yao Deng
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA, MS, MPhil
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01002 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Yao Deng, graduated from the University of Pennsylvania counseling program. As a counselor with a background in studying abroad, I offer counseling services in both Chinese and English. In therapy, I adopt an integrative approach, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Existential-Humanistic principles, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. My areas of expertise include anxiety, personal growth, cultural conflicts, trauma experiences, interpersonal and relationship issues, as well as family dynamics. I am committed to being an LGBTQ+ friendly counselor.
Hello, I'm Yao Deng, graduated from the University of Pennsylvania counseling program. As a counselor with a background in studying abroad, I offer counseling services in both Chinese and English. In therapy, I adopt an integrative approach, incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Existential-Humanistic principles, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. My areas of expertise include anxiety, personal growth, cultural conflicts, trauma experiences, interpersonal and relationship issues, as well as family dynamics. I am committed to being an LGBTQ+ friendly counselor.
![Photo of Alexandra Casamassima, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1641a351-5df5-4545-b8cb-064d0938bb6b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Casamassima
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002 (Online Only)
Women face unique challenges throughout the lifespan, and I specialize in supporting them as they grow through these tough transitions - whether it be college stress, a "quarter life crisis", or pregnancy and parenting. I have a holistic approach that aims to empower women facing a wide range of issues or symptoms, including anxiety and stress management, depression, "burnout", OCD, and pregnancy/postpartum mental health. Please see my website for additional details about my practice.
Women face unique challenges throughout the lifespan, and I specialize in supporting them as they grow through these tough transitions - whether it be college stress, a "quarter life crisis", or pregnancy and parenting. I have a holistic approach that aims to empower women facing a wide range of issues or symptoms, including anxiety and stress management, depression, "burnout", OCD, and pregnancy/postpartum mental health. Please see my website for additional details about my practice.
![Photo of Jenna McGivney, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7c670de-5ee9-4295-873a-4378e819c6cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Humans are resilient. We break bones and recover. We are not defined by our fractures, so why be defined by our adversities? By the same token, trauma may feel like a fracture to one’s personality, but trauma does not define an individual. On the contrary, but rather, an individual is defined by the characteristics that silently evolve in the aftermath. My approach is relational, psychodynamic-oriented, and skills-based to teach how to manage emotions, tolerate distress, and improve relationships. I aim to tailor treatment based on needs and readiness in order to foster resilience, enhanced insight, and achieve personal growth.
Humans are resilient. We break bones and recover. We are not defined by our fractures, so why be defined by our adversities? By the same token, trauma may feel like a fracture to one’s personality, but trauma does not define an individual. On the contrary, but rather, an individual is defined by the characteristics that silently evolve in the aftermath. My approach is relational, psychodynamic-oriented, and skills-based to teach how to manage emotions, tolerate distress, and improve relationships. I aim to tailor treatment based on needs and readiness in order to foster resilience, enhanced insight, and achieve personal growth.
![Photo of Dr. Max Wu, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eb8e43e-c8cd-4a34-8082-257f28ea590e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life stress, pressure and uncertainty can be overwhelming, and I’m here to help. In therapy, we can collaborate to develop your strengths, increase awareness of your values and needs, explore your emotions, and clarify your goals. By building a therapeutic relationship of warmth, compassion, and patience, I aim to help you improve your well-being and interpersonal relationships, at your pace. Together we will notice both situational and systemic messages that influence your concerns and work towards increased security and sustainable change. I value authentic communication and invite your feedback throughout the process.
Life stress, pressure and uncertainty can be overwhelming, and I’m here to help. In therapy, we can collaborate to develop your strengths, increase awareness of your values and needs, explore your emotions, and clarify your goals. By building a therapeutic relationship of warmth, compassion, and patience, I aim to help you improve your well-being and interpersonal relationships, at your pace. Together we will notice both situational and systemic messages that influence your concerns and work towards increased security and sustainable change. I value authentic communication and invite your feedback throughout the process.
![Photo of Emily Bloch, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d89ca663-022a-4035-8b5b-173637396828/2/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Bloch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Amherst, MA 01004
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with people feeling challenged by relationships, work, parenting (from pregnancy through empty nest), and aging, as well as people struggling with trauma, grief, and loss. I start from the position that past experiences and attachments have profound effects on our everyday lives, and our abilities to move forward. I have an interest in working with those who navigate multiple cultures and communities (through, for example, racial identity, class background, immigration, religion, gender, and sexuality), as well as those who work in education, healthcare, nonprofit, and creative fields.
I specialize in working with people feeling challenged by relationships, work, parenting (from pregnancy through empty nest), and aging, as well as people struggling with trauma, grief, and loss. I start from the position that past experiences and attachments have profound effects on our everyday lives, and our abilities to move forward. I have an interest in working with those who navigate multiple cultures and communities (through, for example, racial identity, class background, immigration, religion, gender, and sexuality), as well as those who work in education, healthcare, nonprofit, and creative fields.
![Photo of Sarah Lukens, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22f1f47a-2426-46ae-bcdc-019139b2adbe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. I provide individual and couples therapy, and specialize in treating anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, and depression. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that fosters bravery and invites people to reveal their authentic selves. Because I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is lively and collaborative, I use a direct and open manner in treatment. I will work with you to create a therapy that is effective for you as an individual. I am licensed in both Massachusetts and Colorado, and currently offer in-person therapy in Amherst, MA and teletherapy in both states.
Accepting New Clients. I provide individual and couples therapy, and specialize in treating anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, and depression. I am committed to creating a therapeutic space that fosters bravery and invites people to reveal their authentic selves. Because I believe that therapy is most beneficial when it is lively and collaborative, I use a direct and open manner in treatment. I will work with you to create a therapy that is effective for you as an individual. I am licensed in both Massachusetts and Colorado, and currently offer in-person therapy in Amherst, MA and teletherapy in both states.
![Photo of Jonathan Stein - Jonathan Stein, CTP, CDT, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/194bf3d7-f4dc-480e-a908-e68f820415ee/1/320x400.jpeg)
At the core of my approach to holistic mental health and life coaching is a deep knowing that each person has an innate capacity for healing, happiness, and thriving in all aspects of life - physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. When we honor the wholeness of our being and integrate all of these dimensions, we naturally open to greater well-being.
At the core of my approach to holistic mental health and life coaching is a deep knowing that each person has an innate capacity for healing, happiness, and thriving in all aspects of life - physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. When we honor the wholeness of our being and integrate all of these dimensions, we naturally open to greater well-being.
![Photo of Michaela Szekalski, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ae02367-edeb-46a7-8064-1b4326553c5a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling like anxiety or your past is holding you back from living your best life? Trust me, I get it—I’ve been there too. Therapy is all about learning to navigate these challenges and becoming the person you want to be. I’m excited to work with clients who are ready to grow and make positive changes.
Feeling like anxiety or your past is holding you back from living your best life? Trust me, I get it—I’ve been there too. Therapy is all about learning to navigate these challenges and becoming the person you want to be. I’m excited to work with clients who are ready to grow and make positive changes.
![Photo of Jenni Brennan, MSW, LICSW, CEIS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40dc406c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenni Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CEIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002 (Online Only)
I approach all counseling sessions from a strengths-based perspective, assisting you to identify and draw upon your inherent resources. Authenticity, transparency and acceptance are deeply valued by me, resulting in truly honest and supportive counseling sessions. By collaborating closely together, you and I will define and work toward realistic goals in order to maximize your time in counseling. Available to see residents of Massachusetts or Florida via Telehealth.
I approach all counseling sessions from a strengths-based perspective, assisting you to identify and draw upon your inherent resources. Authenticity, transparency and acceptance are deeply valued by me, resulting in truly honest and supportive counseling sessions. By collaborating closely together, you and I will define and work toward realistic goals in order to maximize your time in counseling. Available to see residents of Massachusetts or Florida via Telehealth.
![Photo of Dr. Stephanie Jordan, LMHC, EdD, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09e16002-fbd2-4d72-abca-9486e13b3e2c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stephanie Jordan
Counselor, LMHC, EdD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Amherst, MA 01002 (Online Only)
Sometimes when life is difficult, we try to take on everything ourselves. I am here to let you know that you do not have to do it all alone.When the pain become too heavy, I will be here for you as you speak your truth.I believe that we are the experts of our own lives and story. I will provide validation, where you can become your own catalyst for change.Our therapeutic work will be an empowering safe place for healing, self-discovery and navigating life’s challenges. I use therapeutic modalities specific to a client’s individual needs.
Sometimes when life is difficult, we try to take on everything ourselves. I am here to let you know that you do not have to do it all alone.When the pain become too heavy, I will be here for you as you speak your truth.I believe that we are the experts of our own lives and story. I will provide validation, where you can become your own catalyst for change.Our therapeutic work will be an empowering safe place for healing, self-discovery and navigating life’s challenges. I use therapeutic modalities specific to a client’s individual needs.
See more therapy options for Belchertown
Nearby Emotionally Focused Therapists Searches for Belchertown
- Amherst
- Chicopee
- Easthampton
- Florence
- Hadley
- Hampden
- Holyoke
- Ludlow
- Northampton
- South Hadley
- Springfield
- Wilbraham
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.