Emotionally Focused Therapists in Buffalo, MN

Photo of Jacqui Theisen - Serenity Mental Health Services, MS, NCC, LPCC, Counselor
Serenity Mental Health Services
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, MN 55313
Our therapists offer many different treatment strategies, including, but not limited to: Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), spirituality and holistic health approaches, Mindfulness, Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT), Solutions Focused.
At Serenity Mental Health Services, we enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life. We are passionate about what we do, and feel great joy when we see individuals make positive changes towards their recovery goals. We have experience in treating many diagnoses, utilizing several different treatment modalities. We work with individuals, families, couples, and groups. We also offer ARMHS, and CTSS!
Our therapists offer many different treatment strategies, including, but not limited to: Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), spirituality and holistic health approaches, Mindfulness, Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT), Solutions Focused.
At Serenity Mental Health Services, we enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life. We are passionate about what we do, and feel great joy when we see individuals make positive changes towards their recovery goals. We have experience in treating many diagnoses, utilizing several different treatment modalities. We work with individuals, families, couples, and groups. We also offer ARMHS, and CTSS!
(320) 313-1384 View (320) 313-1384
Photo of Barb Suick, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barb Suick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
I have training in the Gottman method and EFT ( Emotionally Focused Therapy) for couples counseling as well as Discernment Counseling.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples seeking to build and sustain healthy relationships. I use a strengths-based approach that helps clients gather the resources within to work toward positive change. I believe we all need a little help now and then for life's curveballs and challenges and I am passionate about helping others feel empowered to better themselves and their quality of life. I am an EMDR trained therapist for work with trauma and pain. I work with the Veterans Resilience Project to treat veterans with PTSD. I have daytime openings for new in-person clients in Annandale, MN.
I have training in the Gottman method and EFT ( Emotionally Focused Therapy) for couples counseling as well as Discernment Counseling.
I enjoy working with individuals and couples seeking to build and sustain healthy relationships. I use a strengths-based approach that helps clients gather the resources within to work toward positive change. I believe we all need a little help now and then for life's curveballs and challenges and I am passionate about helping others feel empowered to better themselves and their quality of life. I am an EMDR trained therapist for work with trauma and pain. I work with the Veterans Resilience Project to treat veterans with PTSD. I have daytime openings for new in-person clients in Annandale, MN.
(320) 334-5111 View (320) 334-5111
Photo of Brett Nikula, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brett Nikula
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
Healing hard relationships is both my passion and a privilege. No one taught you the skills you need to have a successful relationship, and it can be challenging to find support when it feels too personal to go to friends or family. Seeking professional help is the best option, and I am ready to help you heal the hurt you have experienced in your relationships. You know you need, and want more out of your relationship, and it's not too late. At Pivotal Approach Therapy, I have specialized training to help couples learn the crucial relationship and communication skills so their connection can bring happiness and last a lifetime.
Healing hard relationships is both my passion and a privilege. No one taught you the skills you need to have a successful relationship, and it can be challenging to find support when it feels too personal to go to friends or family. Seeking professional help is the best option, and I am ready to help you heal the hurt you have experienced in your relationships. You know you need, and want more out of your relationship, and it's not too late. At Pivotal Approach Therapy, I have specialized training to help couples learn the crucial relationship and communication skills so their connection can bring happiness and last a lifetime.
(763) 324-9302 View (763) 324-9302
Photo of Johanna Schultz, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Johanna Schultz
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
My approach to therapy is that I believe in the inherent value, purpose, and dignity of each person and that through therapy, individuals can develop or re-establish this believe about themselves. I am here to actively and non-judgmentally listen to your story and work collaboratively to build upon your internal strengths and reaching your goals. I desire to create a space that is safe and supportive where you feel comfortable expressing yourself, your concerns, and aspirations. I have experience and enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan.
My approach to therapy is that I believe in the inherent value, purpose, and dignity of each person and that through therapy, individuals can develop or re-establish this believe about themselves. I am here to actively and non-judgmentally listen to your story and work collaboratively to build upon your internal strengths and reaching your goals. I desire to create a space that is safe and supportive where you feel comfortable expressing yourself, your concerns, and aspirations. I have experience and enjoy working with individuals across the lifespan.
(320) 322-6799 View (320) 322-6799
Photo of Karen M. Kahler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen M. Kahler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, MN 55313
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who utilizes empathy, kindness, active listening, respect and systemic approach with clients to build a trusting relationship. Within this relationship is where clients are able to find their center, rise to the challenges they are facing, work on and achieve their goals, and find a sense of balance. I believe we all need connection, compassion, and encouragement to grow. I offer both in person and virtual sessions. Let me know how I can be of support for you.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who utilizes empathy, kindness, active listening, respect and systemic approach with clients to build a trusting relationship. Within this relationship is where clients are able to find their center, rise to the challenges they are facing, work on and achieve their goals, and find a sense of balance. I believe we all need connection, compassion, and encouragement to grow. I offer both in person and virtual sessions. Let me know how I can be of support for you.
(952) 649-5379 View (952) 649-5379
Photo of Carissa Quigley, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carissa Quigley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, MN 55313  (Online Only)
Carissa is very positive, and very relaxed. She’s not one to rush, or push. Working with her is like taking a long walk with a friend in a state park: your making movement at a chill pace. Carissa is a gifted and talented therapist and has a very calming and centering vibe about her. She is the type of person that is up for talking about, addressing, or accomplishing just about anything. She’s “go with the flow” in all the best ways. This is what makes her such a perfect fit for teens and young adults as she goes at their pace.
Carissa is very positive, and very relaxed. She’s not one to rush, or push. Working with her is like taking a long walk with a friend in a state park: your making movement at a chill pace. Carissa is a gifted and talented therapist and has a very calming and centering vibe about her. She is the type of person that is up for talking about, addressing, or accomplishing just about anything. She’s “go with the flow” in all the best ways. This is what makes her such a perfect fit for teens and young adults as she goes at their pace.
(952) 800-3234 View (952) 800-3234
Photo of Deanne Shaw, MA LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deanne Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Buffalo, MN 55313  (Online Only)
We live in a multi stress world and sometimes we need extra support. I provide couples, individual, and family therapy for adolescents and adults. I am a compassionate therapist who values the therapeutic connection. I am passionate about working with adolescence who have emotional/behavioral difficulties. I have years of experience assisting individuals, couples and families working through their life challenges. My experience includes (but is not limited to) mood disorders, trauma recovery, survivors of abuse, women's issues, parent-child conflict(s), marital issues, and transitional/adjustment issues.
We live in a multi stress world and sometimes we need extra support. I provide couples, individual, and family therapy for adolescents and adults. I am a compassionate therapist who values the therapeutic connection. I am passionate about working with adolescence who have emotional/behavioral difficulties. I have years of experience assisting individuals, couples and families working through their life challenges. My experience includes (but is not limited to) mood disorders, trauma recovery, survivors of abuse, women's issues, parent-child conflict(s), marital issues, and transitional/adjustment issues.
(612) 324-5154 View (612) 324-5154
Photo of Melissa A. Raatz, MSW, LICSW, CHT, ART, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa A. Raatz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CHT, ART, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo, MN 55313
I believe all clients hold the key to their own success and can be guided to that end in a safe, trusting, honest environment. Building relationship and skills for growth, understanding and healing are among my goals in therapy. My personal journey through adoption, trauma, abuse, raising a child with mental health concerns, spiritual enlightenment, natural mental health, divorce, and remarriage have become the gifts I share though therapy. I believe the keys essential to reaching any goal lies within each of us believing in ourselves and knowing that someone also believes in us.
I believe all clients hold the key to their own success and can be guided to that end in a safe, trusting, honest environment. Building relationship and skills for growth, understanding and healing are among my goals in therapy. My personal journey through adoption, trauma, abuse, raising a child with mental health concerns, spiritual enlightenment, natural mental health, divorce, and remarriage have become the gifts I share though therapy. I believe the keys essential to reaching any goal lies within each of us believing in ourselves and knowing that someone also believes in us.
(763) 401-7618 View (763) 401-7618
Photo of Kevin Smith - Northwinds Counseling Services, P.A., LMFT, LPCC, LGSW
Northwinds Counseling Services, P.A.
LMFT, LPCC, LGSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
At Northwinds, we consider it a privilege to help our clients as they go through life-changing experiences. With integrity, compassion, and a deep devotion to the worth of each individual we see, we are here to help you make positive adjustments to the stressful life challenges you are facing. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling. Our primary model of treatment is Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, though we frequently draw from other treatment models as needed. LMFT: Kevin Smith, Amy Halverson, John Torkelson, and Terri Jorstad; LPCC: Jordan Leuthold, Michelle Rhea, Raven Winter & Rindie Eagle; LGSW: Allison Brockway
At Northwinds, we consider it a privilege to help our clients as they go through life-changing experiences. With integrity, compassion, and a deep devotion to the worth of each individual we see, we are here to help you make positive adjustments to the stressful life challenges you are facing. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling. Our primary model of treatment is Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, though we frequently draw from other treatment models as needed. LMFT: Kevin Smith, Amy Halverson, John Torkelson, and Terri Jorstad; LPCC: Jordan Leuthold, Michelle Rhea, Raven Winter & Rindie Eagle; LGSW: Allison Brockway
(763) 280-5780 View (763) 280-5780
Photo of Christina Muraski, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Muraski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Buffalo, MN 55313
Not accepting new clients
Christina specializes in working in early childhood mental health and sees young children from birth and up to age 6 and works closely with their caregivers providing parenting skills and focusing on strengthening relationships. Christina is a Registered Play Therapist and sees children up to the age of 12. Christina believes that play therapy offers a way to empower children and provides a space for them to heal from traumatic experiences, express their emotions in productive ways, and feel encouraged to move beyond their difficult situations, and all through their natural language which is PLAY.
Christina specializes in working in early childhood mental health and sees young children from birth and up to age 6 and works closely with their caregivers providing parenting skills and focusing on strengthening relationships. Christina is a Registered Play Therapist and sees children up to the age of 12. Christina believes that play therapy offers a way to empower children and provides a space for them to heal from traumatic experiences, express their emotions in productive ways, and feel encouraged to move beyond their difficult situations, and all through their natural language which is PLAY.
(320) 347-3759 View (320) 347-3759

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Knapp, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Knapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
I am trained in EFT, one of the most evidence-based approaches to couples therapy, and Family EFT, which focuses on parenting and parent-child interactions in a family unit.
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
I am trained in EFT, one of the most evidence-based approaches to couples therapy, and Family EFT, which focuses on parenting and parent-child interactions in a family unit.
We are not meant to live in isolation. From the moment we are born, our identity and sense of self is tied in with those around us. Over time, it may shift from parents to peer groups to intimate partners, but how we interact with others is at the core of our emotional well-being. Parenting comes with a unique set of questions, self-doubt, and high stakes. For many of us, it may activate unresolved hurt or resentment from our own childhood or invite feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. Our intimate relationships are another significant part of our lives. Clients can learn how to connect, improve understanding, and strengthen their intimate relationships by moving past the cycles that break down communication and build walls of hurt and defensiveness. Couples can re-establish that “spark,” share a vision of a connected future, and feel both valued and validated by their partners. Experiencing trauma impacts our ability to connect with and receive connection from others. Sometimes we get so stuck in that trauma that it shifts our view of the world and can permanently alter our perception. Therapy is a place to process through this experience, so you can move forward with life.
(763) 334-6512 View (763) 334-6512
Photo of Kelly May, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly May
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, MN 55373
I use a client centered approach to help clients focus on attainable goals to work towards, as well as combining other modalities such as; cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and emotionally focused approaches.
Life often will throw us curve balls that we don’t expect, or things we never thought of having to deal with. In these times we tend to feel like we aren’t in control, we may feel alone, and not sure how to navigate through these times. So if you’re searching for an encouraging, non-judgmental, welcoming and comforting space to help guide you through these times, I look forward to walking along side of you in your journey.
I use a client centered approach to help clients focus on attainable goals to work towards, as well as combining other modalities such as; cognitive behavioral, solution focused, and emotionally focused approaches.
Life often will throw us curve balls that we don’t expect, or things we never thought of having to deal with. In these times we tend to feel like we aren’t in control, we may feel alone, and not sure how to navigate through these times. So if you’re searching for an encouraging, non-judgmental, welcoming and comforting space to help guide you through these times, I look forward to walking along side of you in your journey.
(612) 979-1645 View (612) 979-1645
Photo of Carin Snell, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carin Snell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
I am a client-centered therapist who enjoys helping others find hope and joy in life. I enjoy working collaboratively to help clients discover the best way to overcome their problems. I am down-to-earth, great at connecting with others, and provide an environment that is supportive, safe, and nurturing. I have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma, and I am trained in EMDR.
I am a client-centered therapist who enjoys helping others find hope and joy in life. I enjoy working collaboratively to help clients discover the best way to overcome their problems. I am down-to-earth, great at connecting with others, and provide an environment that is supportive, safe, and nurturing. I have experience working with clients who have experienced trauma, and I am trained in EMDR.
(763) 314-4753 View (763) 314-4753
Photo of Rindie Eagle, MA, LPCC
Rindie Eagle
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Some Monday openings. If you find yourself struggling to keep the "perfect" mask on, I can help you become empowered to make the changes you want in your life to feel better and become recharged. We will use a strengths-based approach to identify the strengths you already have, and then you will learn how to use them in your favor to make the changes you want in your life in order to reduce the anxiety or depression that is draining your system. Go to this link to get on the waitlist: jotform.com/rindie/appointments
Some Monday openings. If you find yourself struggling to keep the "perfect" mask on, I can help you become empowered to make the changes you want in your life to feel better and become recharged. We will use a strengths-based approach to identify the strengths you already have, and then you will learn how to use them in your favor to make the changes you want in your life in order to reduce the anxiety or depression that is draining your system. Go to this link to get on the waitlist: jotform.com/rindie/appointments
(763) 634-5444 View (763) 634-5444
Photo of Neko J. Vanevenhoven - Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi, Marriage & Family Therapist
Authentic Roots Therapy PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LP, LPCC, LADC, Supervi
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men.
Authentic Roots Therapy is a mental health collaborative where licensed professionals provide individual, couple, & family mental health therapy in Minneapolis, Minnesota. We specialize in working with children, couples, families, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals who are questioning, curious, transitioning, or identifying as transgender/non-binary, mothers in postpartum, faith communities, individuals experiencing traumatic symptomatology, and highly sensitive men.
(763) 703-1621 View (763) 703-1621
Photo of Nathan Hoffman, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Nathan Hoffman
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Michael, MN 55376
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist, I take a person-centered approach to therapy and work with individuals to help them gain awareness and understanding of their mental health, while helping them identify their strengths and values. I work to meet individuals where they are and I believe that openness, honesty, trust, and respect are foundational in a therapeutic relationship. I am committed to helping individuals move towards improving their mental health and overall well-being by utilizing a holistic approach that focuses on physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
As a therapist, I take a person-centered approach to therapy and work with individuals to help them gain awareness and understanding of their mental health, while helping them identify their strengths and values. I work to meet individuals where they are and I believe that openness, honesty, trust, and respect are foundational in a therapeutic relationship. I am committed to helping individuals move towards improving their mental health and overall well-being by utilizing a holistic approach that focuses on physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
(763) 247-7937 View (763) 247-7937
Photo of Jacob Lukkarila, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jacob Lukkarila
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Monticello, MN 55362
I believe in every painful situation there is hope and an opportunity for progress in the midst of that pain. I treat a variety of individuals, couples and families. I use a systemic approach to treat a variety of different needs. I am passionate about walking alongside my clients in their highs and lows and encouraging them and walking alongside them as they grow. I understand that every individual is different and has different goals they are trying to achieve! Ultimately, I believe that everyone can find peace and hope in the craziness of life.
I believe in every painful situation there is hope and an opportunity for progress in the midst of that pain. I treat a variety of individuals, couples and families. I use a systemic approach to treat a variety of different needs. I am passionate about walking alongside my clients in their highs and lows and encouraging them and walking alongside them as they grow. I understand that every individual is different and has different goals they are trying to achieve! Ultimately, I believe that everyone can find peace and hope in the craziness of life.
(763) 294-9163 View (763) 294-9163
Photo of David Olmscheid, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Olmscheid
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monticello, MN 55362
Where there is hurt, there is hope. This belief has fueled my passion for counseling over the last ten years. I work with my clients to empower them to resolve the stressors and hardships in their life. I also strive to help my clients achieve their goals. I have experience working through grief, depression, anxiety, anger issues, and conflict resolution with couples and individuals. I also have experience working with at-risk adolescent males and foster children.
Where there is hurt, there is hope. This belief has fueled my passion for counseling over the last ten years. I work with my clients to empower them to resolve the stressors and hardships in their life. I also strive to help my clients achieve their goals. I have experience working through grief, depression, anxiety, anger issues, and conflict resolution with couples and individuals. I also have experience working with at-risk adolescent males and foster children.
(844) 221-1191 View (844) 221-1191
Photo of Nick Flottmeier, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nick Flottmeier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Monticello, MN 55362
As a dedicated pre-licensed clinician, I am passionately committed to the field of mental health and relational well-being. I aim to help individuals and families navigate all of life's challenges including depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. Throughout my career journey, I have actively engaged in clinical training and coursework which has helped me develop skills in assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention. Drawing from various theoretical frameworks, including family systems theory and cognitive-behavioral techniques, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
As a dedicated pre-licensed clinician, I am passionately committed to the field of mental health and relational well-being. I aim to help individuals and families navigate all of life's challenges including depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. Throughout my career journey, I have actively engaged in clinical training and coursework which has helped me develop skills in assessment, diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention. Drawing from various theoretical frameworks, including family systems theory and cognitive-behavioral techniques, I tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
(763) 312-2762 View (763) 312-2762
Photo of Niloufer Merchant, EdD, LP, Psychologist
Niloufer Merchant
Psychologist, EdD, LP
Verified Verified
Monticello, MN 55362
Not accepting new clients
In addition to talk therapy, I use a variety of proven therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, EFT tapping, Flash, Brainspotting, CBT, Polyvagal Theory and mindfulness.
Are you struggling with emotional and/or relationship issues and not sure how to deal with them? Seeking help is not easy and I recognize it takes courage to take that first step to reach out to a professional. For that reason, I use gentle, compassionate, and affirming methods to create a safe environment and work at a pace that is most comfortable to you. Sometimes it’s easy to talk about the issues and at other times, it feels too private or painful to reveal. When memories are too painful to share I can even work with them silently. I also incorporate many holistic approaches, honoring the mind, body and spirit connection.
In addition to talk therapy, I use a variety of proven therapeutic approaches such as EMDR, EFT tapping, Flash, Brainspotting, CBT, Polyvagal Theory and mindfulness.
Are you struggling with emotional and/or relationship issues and not sure how to deal with them? Seeking help is not easy and I recognize it takes courage to take that first step to reach out to a professional. For that reason, I use gentle, compassionate, and affirming methods to create a safe environment and work at a pace that is most comfortable to you. Sometimes it’s easy to talk about the issues and at other times, it feels too private or painful to reveal. When memories are too painful to share I can even work with them silently. I also incorporate many holistic approaches, honoring the mind, body and spirit connection.
(320) 547-4019 View (320) 547-4019

See more therapy options for Buffalo

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.