Emotionally Focused Therapists in Clarksburg, MD

Photo of Tracie Strucker, PhD, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracie Strucker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871  (Online Only)
Are you looking for ways to be in control of your eating? Do you feel like overeating causes more stress than it solves? You know what’s healthy, but being consistent when you’re overwhelmed and exhausted... Hi, I’m Tracie, I specialize in helping women break the cycle of emotional eating and eating disorders. Food problems aren’t solved with healthy eating. They’re sparked by stress and need solutions that give you skills that last. I can help you with strategies that put you in control. You deserve a therapist who’s specially trained with a proven 25 year track record of solving emotional eating and eating disorders for good!
Are you looking for ways to be in control of your eating? Do you feel like overeating causes more stress than it solves? You know what’s healthy, but being consistent when you’re overwhelmed and exhausted... Hi, I’m Tracie, I specialize in helping women break the cycle of emotional eating and eating disorders. Food problems aren’t solved with healthy eating. They’re sparked by stress and need solutions that give you skills that last. I can help you with strategies that put you in control. You deserve a therapist who’s specially trained with a proven 25 year track record of solving emotional eating and eating disorders for good!
(301) 298-1758 View (301) 298-1758
Photo of Aimee Ascolese, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Ascolese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
My ideal client would put as much effort as they are ready to in that moment, day, or week to continue prioritizing their mental health needs. Over time, I hope to support each person in identifying what is helpful vs. harmful to their overall well-being. I look forward to supporting individuals navigating life transitions, women's issues, those in need of validation and perspective-taking, struggling with anxiety, searching for answers and healing from traumatic experiences, feeling "stuck," and individuals hoping for support with executive functioning challenges, sensory challenges, or complex social interactions.
(240) 660-4163 View (240) 660-4163
Photo of Rebecca Austin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
(240) 512-8045 View (240) 512-8045
Photo of Jeanne Garrett, NCC , LGPC, Counselor
Jeanne Garrett
Counselor, NCC , LGPC
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871
Do you grapple with an unshakeable sense of discontentment, feeling that something vital is missing in life? Do you recognize a void within yourself despite your achievements that is driving you to seek therapy? Do you seek to unravel the complexities of your identity, motivations, and desires, hoping to uncover the root cause of your dissatisfaction? You may want to address surface-level issues and embark on a journey of self-exploration and understanding. I specialize in anxiety, depression, college mental health, ADHD, and life transitions, making me equipped to address a wide range of concerns.
Do you grapple with an unshakeable sense of discontentment, feeling that something vital is missing in life? Do you recognize a void within yourself despite your achievements that is driving you to seek therapy? Do you seek to unravel the complexities of your identity, motivations, and desires, hoping to uncover the root cause of your dissatisfaction? You may want to address surface-level issues and embark on a journey of self-exploration and understanding. I specialize in anxiety, depression, college mental health, ADHD, and life transitions, making me equipped to address a wide range of concerns.
(240) 257-7391 View (240) 257-7391
Photo of Logan Ross, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Logan Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871
My ideal client would be someone who recognizes unhealthy patterns and is ready to make a change, whether this is a disruption in day-to-day functioning, relationships, self-esteem, or addiction. Even if your goal isn't clear at the moment, I will help guide you along the way until you're able to see the finish line you envision. Clients should be ready to be challenged and encouraged to get outside of their comfort zone.
My ideal client would be someone who recognizes unhealthy patterns and is ready to make a change, whether this is a disruption in day-to-day functioning, relationships, self-esteem, or addiction. Even if your goal isn't clear at the moment, I will help guide you along the way until you're able to see the finish line you envision. Clients should be ready to be challenged and encouraged to get outside of their comfort zone.
(240) 774-1636 View (240) 774-1636
Photo of Bianca Johnson, NCC , LGPC , Counselor
Bianca Johnson
Counselor, NCC , LGPC
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) with years of experience working with teens, couples, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, anger issues, parenting difficulties, depression, chronic stress, relationship issues, and pregnancy-related concerns. My ideal client is motivated to learn more about themselves, open to self-reflection, willing to engage in the therapeutic process, and committed to making positive changes in their lives. Additionally, they are motivated to work on their issues, have good communication skills, and are willing to be honest and vulnerable in the therapeutic relationship.
I am a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC) with years of experience working with teens, couples, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, anger issues, parenting difficulties, depression, chronic stress, relationship issues, and pregnancy-related concerns. My ideal client is motivated to learn more about themselves, open to self-reflection, willing to engage in the therapeutic process, and committed to making positive changes in their lives. Additionally, they are motivated to work on their issues, have good communication skills, and are willing to be honest and vulnerable in the therapeutic relationship.
(240) 266-9421 View (240) 266-9421
Photo of Johanté Wood, LCPC
Johanté Wood
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871
My ideal client would be someone either navigating life stressors, anxiety, or depression. My client is someone hoping to reconnect with their strengths as well as create a better balance in their life. My client could potentially be experiencing trauma or issues with attachment concerns and relationships. My client expresses their goals of needing to manage emotions better, find balance within their routine, and build more confidence, which is helpful for communication of desires/ interests. The client wants to accomplish these goals for the first time or as a result of transition/trauma.
My ideal client would be someone either navigating life stressors, anxiety, or depression. My client is someone hoping to reconnect with their strengths as well as create a better balance in their life. My client could potentially be experiencing trauma or issues with attachment concerns and relationships. My client expresses their goals of needing to manage emotions better, find balance within their routine, and build more confidence, which is helpful for communication of desires/ interests. The client wants to accomplish these goals for the first time or as a result of transition/trauma.
(240) 981-4373 View (240) 981-4373
Photo of Antoinette Fobbs, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antoinette Fobbs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871
My ideal client would be a mom or wife, an individual who does not have any coping skills and blames themselves for things that are out of their control, such as anxiety, depression, unstable mood, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, lack of motivation, & no insight in their situation. Their needs would be support, empathy, understanding, and active listening. They have goals to work on themselves, improve communication skills, increase coping skills, and alleviate anxiety and depressive symptoms. The client would want to change and work on themselves to become better and stronger individuals for themselves & their families.
My ideal client would be a mom or wife, an individual who does not have any coping skills and blames themselves for things that are out of their control, such as anxiety, depression, unstable mood, low self-esteem, lack of confidence, lack of motivation, & no insight in their situation. Their needs would be support, empathy, understanding, and active listening. They have goals to work on themselves, improve communication skills, increase coping skills, and alleviate anxiety and depressive symptoms. The client would want to change and work on themselves to become better and stronger individuals for themselves & their families.
(240) 255-4171 View (240) 255-4171
Photo of Comfort Tetteh, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Comfort Tetteh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksburg, MD 20871
Our interpretation of events can be inaccurate and can hurt us. You will have no regrets tomorrow by giving yourself a chance to live today. I believe Life is always worth living. Whether you are hurting, stressed out, overwhelmed or feeling stuck emotionally because of bad relationships, dysfunctional family systems, school, work, past traumatic experiences, there is hope. Come and share your thoughts and feelings, clarify them and put things in perspective. Unearth maladaptive behavior patterns, develop coping skills, make decisions about change and get the best out of life.
Our interpretation of events can be inaccurate and can hurt us. You will have no regrets tomorrow by giving yourself a chance to live today. I believe Life is always worth living. Whether you are hurting, stressed out, overwhelmed or feeling stuck emotionally because of bad relationships, dysfunctional family systems, school, work, past traumatic experiences, there is hope. Come and share your thoughts and feelings, clarify them and put things in perspective. Unearth maladaptive behavior patterns, develop coping skills, make decisions about change and get the best out of life.
(240) 767-6411 View (240) 767-6411
Photo of Ericka Jennings, LGPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ericka Jennings
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksburg, MD 20871
I’m Ericka Jennings, LGPC, NCC, and I bring a unique blend of experience as both an educator and counselor to support individuals in their journey toward healing and growth. My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating complex emotional, academic, or life transition challenges. Whether it's a child struggling with school-related issues like anxiety or a professional feeling stuck in their career path, my clients often seek a space where they can feel heard and understood. Their goals often include overcoming barriers to success, strengthening relationships, and building a deeper sense of self-confidence.
I’m Ericka Jennings, LGPC, NCC, and I bring a unique blend of experience as both an educator and counselor to support individuals in their journey toward healing and growth. My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating complex emotional, academic, or life transition challenges. Whether it's a child struggling with school-related issues like anxiety or a professional feeling stuck in their career path, my clients often seek a space where they can feel heard and understood. Their goals often include overcoming barriers to success, strengthening relationships, and building a deeper sense of self-confidence.
(240) 895-9258 View (240) 895-9258
Photo of Ella Mae Gray, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Ella Mae Gray
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksburg, MD 20871
I will ALWAYS remain open for in person appointments throughout the pandemic! For the latest in appointment availability and wait list times, take a moment and visit my website at www.guidingprinciplesllc.com! Guiding Principles Counseling Services was founded on the belief that people can change, and must tap into their inner strength and moral compass to guide them toward change. Here at Guiding Principles I foster a warm, comfortable, compassionate and nonjudgmental environment, where a client can begin to emotionally unpack their concerns, and leave with specific cognitive behavioral tools to utilize in their everyday lives.
I will ALWAYS remain open for in person appointments throughout the pandemic! For the latest in appointment availability and wait list times, take a moment and visit my website at www.guidingprinciplesllc.com! Guiding Principles Counseling Services was founded on the belief that people can change, and must tap into their inner strength and moral compass to guide them toward change. Here at Guiding Principles I foster a warm, comfortable, compassionate and nonjudgmental environment, where a client can begin to emotionally unpack their concerns, and leave with specific cognitive behavioral tools to utilize in their everyday lives.
(301) 684-6535 View (301) 684-6535
Photo of Elizabeth Melchione, LCPC, CCATP, NCC, Counselor
Elizabeth Melchione
Counselor, LCPC, CCATP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksburg, MD 20871  (Online Only)
Hello! I’m passionate about guiding individuals and couples through their personal journeys toward healing and self-discovery. My expertise spans self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, self-worth, depression, codependency, and grief. I work with both traditional and non-traditional couples, fostering healthier connections and deeper understanding in relationships.
Hello! I’m passionate about guiding individuals and couples through their personal journeys toward healing and self-discovery. My expertise spans self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, self-worth, depression, codependency, and grief. I work with both traditional and non-traditional couples, fostering healthier connections and deeper understanding in relationships.
(301) 327-2650 View (301) 327-2650
Photo of Julie Yook, MA, LCPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Julie Yook
Art Therapist, MA, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871  (Online Only)
우리는 과거를 돌이킬 수는 없지만 고통스러운 기억에서 자유로울 수는 있습니다. 우리의 뇌는 스스로 치유하는 능력을 가지고 있습니다. We as human beings may encounter overwhelming challenges that can leave us feeling powerless or hopeless. These emotional disturbances and negative thoughts often come from old self-beliefs and deeply rooted emotions from unresolved past experiences that are adverse or even traumatic. We all have the inherent ability to build resilience and embrace challenges for growth and healing. I help my clients reconnect with their resilience, improve insight into their issues, and ultimately find their own path to happiness, hope and a sense of wholeness.
우리는 과거를 돌이킬 수는 없지만 고통스러운 기억에서 자유로울 수는 있습니다. 우리의 뇌는 스스로 치유하는 능력을 가지고 있습니다. We as human beings may encounter overwhelming challenges that can leave us feeling powerless or hopeless. These emotional disturbances and negative thoughts often come from old self-beliefs and deeply rooted emotions from unresolved past experiences that are adverse or even traumatic. We all have the inherent ability to build resilience and embrace challenges for growth and healing. I help my clients reconnect with their resilience, improve insight into their issues, and ultimately find their own path to happiness, hope and a sense of wholeness.
(240) 896-1547 View (240) 896-1547
Photo of Kelly L Dalrymple, MEd, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Kelly L Dalrymple
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarksburg, MD 20871
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking counseling for a variety of reasons, such as healing from trauma, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, life transitions/adjustment, relationship issues, suicidal ideation and self-harm, LGBTQ+ issues, behavioral issues, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem, and self-exploration. Starting therapy is intimidating, so I like to start with building a trusting and collaborative relationship that will help empower clients in their healing process. The human experience can be difficult to navigate so It is my goal to provide a safe space where clients don’t have to face it alone.
I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking counseling for a variety of reasons, such as healing from trauma, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, life transitions/adjustment, relationship issues, suicidal ideation and self-harm, LGBTQ+ issues, behavioral issues, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem, and self-exploration. Starting therapy is intimidating, so I like to start with building a trusting and collaborative relationship that will help empower clients in their healing process. The human experience can be difficult to navigate so It is my goal to provide a safe space where clients don’t have to face it alone.
(301) 477-8869 View (301) 477-8869
Photo of Dr. Jerome Anderson, DSW, LCSW, BCD, CCFC, CCHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jerome Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, BCD, CCFC, CCHP
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I provide services focused on severe and persistent mental health concerns and mild mental health conditions, such as professional counseling, psychotherapy, and consulting services for clinical assistance in mental health symptom management, behavioral redirection, lifestyle adjustment, and crisis abatement. All therapeutic approaches are scientific & evidence-based. The treatment modalities utilized but not limited to are cognitive-behavioral principles and strengths-based theory. I am licensed to provide these services in Washington DC, Maryland, Missouri, and Illinois.
I provide services focused on severe and persistent mental health concerns and mild mental health conditions, such as professional counseling, psychotherapy, and consulting services for clinical assistance in mental health symptom management, behavioral redirection, lifestyle adjustment, and crisis abatement. All therapeutic approaches are scientific & evidence-based. The treatment modalities utilized but not limited to are cognitive-behavioral principles and strengths-based theory. I am licensed to provide these services in Washington DC, Maryland, Missouri, and Illinois.
(240) 226-3693 View (240) 226-3693
Photo of Victoria Bailey Blecker, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Bailey Blecker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871
Not accepting new clients
I have had the privilege for over 15 years of working with individuals, couples and families facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obesity, substance abuse, divorce, loss and life transitions. My past experience at The Renfrew Center in Philadelphia taught me to value the empowerment of my clients to grow and create happier, more fulfilling lives for themselves through the therapeutic process.
I have had the privilege for over 15 years of working with individuals, couples and families facing a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, obesity, substance abuse, divorce, loss and life transitions. My past experience at The Renfrew Center in Philadelphia taught me to value the empowerment of my clients to grow and create happier, more fulfilling lives for themselves through the therapeutic process.
(301) 605-9892 View (301) 605-9892

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Joshua Groah, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua Groah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20874  (Online Only)
With nearly 15 years of experience working with adults and couples, my clients regain a sense of control and contentment through the use of evidence based practices like CBT, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Mindfulness and EMDR.
Often times we find reasons to devalue our own needs because acknowledging pain is hard. I encourage you to take this moment to put your happiness and well-being first. People reach out to me when they feel less in control of their lives. When stressful changes in life leave them feeling restless at night; they aren't able to turn off their mind. They often feel on edge, as if they might cry or lose their cool at any moment. It becomes difficult to feel joy from their usual pleasures. When clients sit down with me they want to regain a sense of normalcy and peace.
With nearly 15 years of experience working with adults and couples, my clients regain a sense of control and contentment through the use of evidence based practices like CBT, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Mindfulness and EMDR.
Often times we find reasons to devalue our own needs because acknowledging pain is hard. I encourage you to take this moment to put your happiness and well-being first. People reach out to me when they feel less in control of their lives. When stressful changes in life leave them feeling restless at night; they aren't able to turn off their mind. They often feel on edge, as if they might cry or lose their cool at any moment. It becomes difficult to feel joy from their usual pleasures. When clients sit down with me they want to regain a sense of normalcy and peace.
(301) 638-8350 View (301) 638-8350
Photo of Larry Letich, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larry Letich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878  (Online Only)
In addition, I'm a certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist ( EFT), a method proven to help mend distressed relationships and restore frayed bonds.
Are you a smart, feelingful, sometimes intense man or woman who knows you can make more of your life than you have? Are you going through a turbulent time, frustrated with yourself and life, struggling in a relationship, knowing you're not fully using your talents and intelligence? It could be adult ADHD is tripping you up in ways you don't realize. Or it could be other emotional, relational or family issues. You want someone who listens closely to what you feel and what's going on in your life and your relationships, not just to "validate" you but to understand, see the whole picture and help you move forward on all levels.
In addition, I'm a certified Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist ( EFT), a method proven to help mend distressed relationships and restore frayed bonds.
Are you a smart, feelingful, sometimes intense man or woman who knows you can make more of your life than you have? Are you going through a turbulent time, frustrated with yourself and life, struggling in a relationship, knowing you're not fully using your talents and intelligence? It could be adult ADHD is tripping you up in ways you don't realize. Or it could be other emotional, relational or family issues. You want someone who listens closely to what you feel and what's going on in your life and your relationships, not just to "validate" you but to understand, see the whole picture and help you move forward on all levels.
(240) 230-3495 View (240) 230-3495
Photo of Carol Mettus - Carol Mettus LLC, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Mettus LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy, Brief and Short-Term Therapy.
Do you feel stuck suffering with anxiety and depression ?Are you dealing with a relationship, work/college issue, or going through a life change such as a divorce, recent move, or loss? Are negative feelings stopping you from living the life you want to live? If so, you are not alone in this. It is possible to change your life. I will help you to heal yourself and learn the skills to change. Change is possible and there is always Hope.
I am trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy, Brief and Short-Term Therapy.
Do you feel stuck suffering with anxiety and depression ?Are you dealing with a relationship, work/college issue, or going through a life change such as a divorce, recent move, or loss? Are negative feelings stopping you from living the life you want to live? If so, you are not alone in this. It is possible to change your life. I will help you to heal yourself and learn the skills to change. Change is possible and there is always Hope.
(240) 823-5198 View (240) 823-5198
Photo of Ellen Levine, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Waitlist for new clients
I provide therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children, working with issues including relationship difficulties, life changes, trauma, grief, and emotion regulation. During therapy, I aim to meet you where you’re at and create an emotionally safe space where you can fully express yourself and heal, no matter what challenges you’re facing. I integrate techniques from client-centered, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method, and mindfulness- and attachment-based therapies to help clients deal with stress, anxiety, depression, and life events impacting well-being.
I provide therapy to adults, couples, adolescents, and children, working with issues including relationship difficulties, life changes, trauma, grief, and emotion regulation. During therapy, I aim to meet you where you’re at and create an emotionally safe space where you can fully express yourself and heal, no matter what challenges you’re facing. I integrate techniques from client-centered, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, EFT, the Gottman Method, and mindfulness- and attachment-based therapies to help clients deal with stress, anxiety, depression, and life events impacting well-being.
(301) 701-4234 View (301) 701-4234

See more therapy options for Clarksburg

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.