Emotionally Focused Therapists in Edina, MN

Photo of Michelle Suarez - Kaleidoscope Counseling, LMFT, MSEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaleidoscope Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pia Mellody's PIT model, the DIR/Floortime model and am certified in Play Therapy.
I am a passionate therapist who believes in the power of change. As a mother of two, a wife, a child development specialist and a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, I, personally and professionally understand the highs and lows in parenting and relationships. Together, we will put the joy back into parenting, your partnership and in life! With over a decade of experience working with families, individuals and couples, I am able to help empower you, engage your children and build your relationships.
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Pia Mellody's PIT model, the DIR/Floortime model and am certified in Play Therapy.
I am a passionate therapist who believes in the power of change. As a mother of two, a wife, a child development specialist and a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, I, personally and professionally understand the highs and lows in parenting and relationships. Together, we will put the joy back into parenting, your partnership and in life! With over a decade of experience working with families, individuals and couples, I am able to help empower you, engage your children and build your relationships.
(612) 213-2473 View (612) 213-2473
Photo of Lyndsey Rikard Osler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lyndsey Rikard Osler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
I'm trained in the Gottman Method (level 3), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (externship level) and IFS.
Clients who see me are frustrated with their marriage or committed partnership. They're arguing frequently and feel disconnected from their partner. They're tired of trying to get through to them and have often lost trust and faith in one another. I often see overwhelmed parents that can't find the time for each other anymore in my practice. We all want to feel heard and respected in our partnerships. Conflict is normal, but unhealthy patterns of fighting over the same thing over and over is not. I help couples figure out a better way to get through to one another. I help couples feel more connected and heard.
I'm trained in the Gottman Method (level 3), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (externship level) and IFS.
Clients who see me are frustrated with their marriage or committed partnership. They're arguing frequently and feel disconnected from their partner. They're tired of trying to get through to them and have often lost trust and faith in one another. I often see overwhelmed parents that can't find the time for each other anymore in my practice. We all want to feel heard and respected in our partnerships. Conflict is normal, but unhealthy patterns of fighting over the same thing over and over is not. I help couples figure out a better way to get through to one another. I help couples feel more connected and heard.
(952) 260-3589 View (952) 260-3589
Photo of Lauryn Nelson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauryn Nelson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55439
My approach is trauma-informed and I gravitate towards mindfulness, Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
My goal is to create a nonjudgmental and warm space for you to explore all parts of yourself. I aim to create a curious, affirming, and shame-free environment so that you feel welcome and safe in session. Our time together might mean exploring your family of origin stories, unraveling your relationship patterns, or diving deeper into your emotions at a pace that feels comfortable to you. I have worked with clients and couples who have experienced complex PTSD, narcissistic abuse, life transitions, low self-worth, or relationship issues.
My approach is trauma-informed and I gravitate towards mindfulness, Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
My goal is to create a nonjudgmental and warm space for you to explore all parts of yourself. I aim to create a curious, affirming, and shame-free environment so that you feel welcome and safe in session. Our time together might mean exploring your family of origin stories, unraveling your relationship patterns, or diving deeper into your emotions at a pace that feels comfortable to you. I have worked with clients and couples who have experienced complex PTSD, narcissistic abuse, life transitions, low self-worth, or relationship issues.
(952) 522-6881 View (952) 522-6881
Photo of Renee Segal, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renee Segal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55424
Waitlist for new clients
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy, an empirically supported method.
Research shows consistently that no matter what counseling method is used, the connection between you & your therapist is the essential factor in feeling better about yourself and your life. I create a safe and supportive relationship with people. It is important that you feel heard, acknowledged & supported. This is the significant ingredient for your personal relationship transformation. In addition to deep listening, learning how to be resilient and knowing that you can support yourself through life's challenges will give you a sense of empowerment and self-esteem. I am active in the sessions, warm, supportive & practical.
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy, an empirically supported method.
Research shows consistently that no matter what counseling method is used, the connection between you & your therapist is the essential factor in feeling better about yourself and your life. I create a safe and supportive relationship with people. It is important that you feel heard, acknowledged & supported. This is the significant ingredient for your personal relationship transformation. In addition to deep listening, learning how to be resilient and knowing that you can support yourself through life's challenges will give you a sense of empowerment and self-esteem. I am active in the sessions, warm, supportive & practical.
(612) 360-2440 View (612) 360-2440
Photo of Leah Austin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leah Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55343
Some of the approaches I use are: Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Strength-based, Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples therapy, Co-parenting, Parent Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Intergenerational therapy.
I believe that everyone has a unique story. One that includes challenges and successes. I want to get to know you, where you have been and where you hope to go. Whether you are seeking therapy as an individual, couple, or family you will be provided with a safe, non-judgmental place to explore and gain insight/skills to live your best life. I am honored to work collaboratively with you from a holistic/strengths/relationship based approach. I have a special interest in the parent-child relationship as this can be one of the most challenging relationships, but the most satisfying.
Some of the approaches I use are: Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Strength-based, Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples therapy, Co-parenting, Parent Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Intergenerational therapy.
I believe that everyone has a unique story. One that includes challenges and successes. I want to get to know you, where you have been and where you hope to go. Whether you are seeking therapy as an individual, couple, or family you will be provided with a safe, non-judgmental place to explore and gain insight/skills to live your best life. I am honored to work collaboratively with you from a holistic/strengths/relationship based approach. I have a special interest in the parent-child relationship as this can be one of the most challenging relationships, but the most satisfying.
(952) 800-3053 View (952) 800-3053
Photo of Hanna Zipes Basel, MSW, LICSW, LADC, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hanna Zipes Basel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55343  (Online Only)
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Therapy.
Couples therapy is my passion. Given the chaos and the way in which human relationships are being undermined in our world today, I feel this work is particularly needed. As far as human happiness goes, I see time and time again that it is the quality of a person’s relationships that makes it or breaks it. This is really the foundation of my couples therapy practice. More than ever, the world needs couples who have each other’s backs, and can bring empathy and intelligent action into the world.
I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Gottman Therapy.
Couples therapy is my passion. Given the chaos and the way in which human relationships are being undermined in our world today, I feel this work is particularly needed. As far as human happiness goes, I see time and time again that it is the quality of a person’s relationships that makes it or breaks it. This is really the foundation of my couples therapy practice. More than ever, the world needs couples who have each other’s backs, and can bring empathy and intelligent action into the world.
(503) 300-2720 View (503) 300-2720
Photo of Jeana Wescott, MDiv, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeana Wescott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55424
I'm Level 3 trained in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Gottman Method to Treating Affairs, EFT Externship for Emotionally Focused Therapy, and EFIT for individual therapy.
I help couples find healing, repair past hurts, and learn to communicate and fight better. Connection and communication off? Recently discover your partner had an affair and now you're marriage is in crisis? Going through divorce and finding yourself single again? Like my clients, you deserve to be in a relationship you feel good about. I'm passionate about working with couples and individuals to help you understand your stuck cycles and teach you the skills to get the relationship you desire.
I'm Level 3 trained in the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Gottman Method to Treating Affairs, EFT Externship for Emotionally Focused Therapy, and EFIT for individual therapy.
I help couples find healing, repair past hurts, and learn to communicate and fight better. Connection and communication off? Recently discover your partner had an affair and now you're marriage is in crisis? Going through divorce and finding yourself single again? Like my clients, you deserve to be in a relationship you feel good about. I'm passionate about working with couples and individuals to help you understand your stuck cycles and teach you the skills to get the relationship you desire.
(763) 710-6435 View (763) 710-6435
Photo of Dorothee M Ischler - Center for Healing and Resilience, DMFT, LP, LMFT, Psychologist
Center for Healing and Resilience
Psychologist, DMFT, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435
In my work with couples, I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy (level three trained) and attachment-based interventions ( EFT).
You are feeling alone and overwhelmed. You are anxious and the negative thoughts in your head are becoming louder and more difficult to control. Your sleep is poor and when you wake you feel tired already. You want help from a holistic perspective. I will teach you how to manage your mind and your nervous system so that you can function better during the day and sleep well at night. I will help you heal the root causes of your anxiety. Your relationships and your health will improve. A "fresh look" look at your difficulties might bring hope into a situation that you have considered to be hopeless.
In my work with couples, I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy (level three trained) and attachment-based interventions ( EFT).
You are feeling alone and overwhelmed. You are anxious and the negative thoughts in your head are becoming louder and more difficult to control. Your sleep is poor and when you wake you feel tired already. You want help from a holistic perspective. I will teach you how to manage your mind and your nervous system so that you can function better during the day and sleep well at night. I will help you heal the root causes of your anxiety. Your relationships and your health will improve. A "fresh look" look at your difficulties might bring hope into a situation that you have considered to be hopeless.
(507) 608-5740 View (507) 608-5740
Photo of Jessica Schiller, MA, LAMFT, LADC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Schiller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LAMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55343
Waitlist for new clients
I use collaborative, attachment, somatic, and strength-based approaches, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems techniques among others.
I believe through trusting, compassionate relationships and connecting with the wisdom of the body and the inner Self, it is possible to find wholeness, growth, and fulfillment. I have been a Licensed Alcohol and Drug counselor since 2008, working with substance use and trauma, before completing my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with couples and individuals ages 17 and older. Anxiety, trauma, attachment injuries, healing from the impacts of addiction, and couples work focusing on reducing protective responses & increasing feelings of safety and security are specialty areas of mine.
I use collaborative, attachment, somatic, and strength-based approaches, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems techniques among others.
I believe through trusting, compassionate relationships and connecting with the wisdom of the body and the inner Self, it is possible to find wholeness, growth, and fulfillment. I have been a Licensed Alcohol and Drug counselor since 2008, working with substance use and trauma, before completing my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I work with couples and individuals ages 17 and older. Anxiety, trauma, attachment injuries, healing from the impacts of addiction, and couples work focusing on reducing protective responses & increasing feelings of safety and security are specialty areas of mine.
(612) 706-9630 View (612) 706-9630
Photo of Abigail L Barthel, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Abigail L Barthel
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55423
I utilize cognitive-behavioral, exposure, and mindfulness-based approaches (CBT, ACT, DBT, EFT).
I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, OCD, trauma/PTSD, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I also work frequently with individuals experiencing emotion dysregulation (e.g., self-harm, suicidal ideation, anger, impulsivity) and interpersonal stress. I utilize CBT, ACT, and DBT interventions in my practice and have received extensive training in each of these treatment modalities. Additionally, I provide CPT and PE for individuals with PTSD. I enjoy working with teens, adults, and couples (12+).
I utilize cognitive-behavioral, exposure, and mindfulness-based approaches (CBT, ACT, DBT, EFT).
I work with individuals and couples experiencing anxiety, OCD, trauma/PTSD, and Borderline Personality Disorder. I also work frequently with individuals experiencing emotion dysregulation (e.g., self-harm, suicidal ideation, anger, impulsivity) and interpersonal stress. I utilize CBT, ACT, and DBT interventions in my practice and have received extensive training in each of these treatment modalities. Additionally, I provide CPT and PE for individuals with PTSD. I enjoy working with teens, adults, and couples (12+).
(952) 395-5174 View (952) 395-5174
Photo of Gail M. Yost, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gail M. Yost
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
Experienced and utilize Emotionally Focused Couple/FamilyTherapy (EFCT/EFFT), and Mindfulness.
It is an amazing feeling when you feel heard and understood. Knowing your story will be held with great care and compassion only adds to feeling emotionally safe. Would you like to have that feeling? No longer feeling emotionally exhausted or being held back by anxiety, depression, or a disturbing experience. Let's explore new possibilities. If you are ready for change, give me a call. During this pandemic and beyond, Gail Yost and Associates is now offering telehealth/virtual visits for your convenience and care. We understand that times like this can be challenging on many levels and want to be sure that you feel supported.
Experienced and utilize Emotionally Focused Couple/FamilyTherapy (EFCT/EFFT), and Mindfulness.
It is an amazing feeling when you feel heard and understood. Knowing your story will be held with great care and compassion only adds to feeling emotionally safe. Would you like to have that feeling? No longer feeling emotionally exhausted or being held back by anxiety, depression, or a disturbing experience. Let's explore new possibilities. If you are ready for change, give me a call. During this pandemic and beyond, Gail Yost and Associates is now offering telehealth/virtual visits for your convenience and care. We understand that times like this can be challenging on many levels and want to be sure that you feel supported.
(651) 433-6353 View (651) 433-6353
Photo of Ande Nelson, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ande Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55343
I have been practicing EMDR for many years, and recently completed EFIT training ( Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy).
My ideal client might be afraid to begin with. They may think I will tell them they are crazy, or look at them in shock for what they tell me. When I reassure them their trauma has taken a toll, but they are not crazy, and I can help them, they will relax. They will learn to trust me and open up. By opening up about their lives and what they have been through and working through their trauma, they will come out on the other side realizing they no longer need to experience the pain, and can experience the joy they always strived for.
I have been practicing EMDR for many years, and recently completed EFIT training ( Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy).
My ideal client might be afraid to begin with. They may think I will tell them they are crazy, or look at them in shock for what they tell me. When I reassure them their trauma has taken a toll, but they are not crazy, and I can help them, they will relax. They will learn to trust me and open up. By opening up about their lives and what they have been through and working through their trauma, they will come out on the other side realizing they no longer need to experience the pain, and can experience the joy they always strived for.
(218) 321-6133 View (218) 321-6133
Photo of Justina Kopp, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Justina Kopp
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55435
I believe the human person holds incredible power in our ability to cope, heal, and transform, and I am honored to walk with people as they pursue wellness and growth. I believe that cultivating well-being and healing in one person has the power to change their family, community, and beyond. My approach is nonjudgmental, compassionate, and collaborative. Let’s work together to get you where you want to be.
I believe the human person holds incredible power in our ability to cope, heal, and transform, and I am honored to walk with people as they pursue wellness and growth. I believe that cultivating well-being and healing in one person has the power to change their family, community, and beyond. My approach is nonjudgmental, compassionate, and collaborative. Let’s work together to get you where you want to be.
(952) 283-0097 View (952) 283-0097
Photo of Leslie Root, LMFT, EMDR, Love-ad, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Root
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, Love-ad
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
Sick and tired of being sick and tired? Feeling like your life and relationships are stuck? I want you to know change is possible. Through our work together, we will discover the reasons you continue to struggle, and map out a path to personal recovery. My desire is to help you, your partner, and your family, grow closer, and experience the love, and intimacy that is available to you. The secret to happiness is inside of you, just waiting to be acknowledged. Let me help you embrace emotional freedom by giving you the tools for success in love and life!
Sick and tired of being sick and tired? Feeling like your life and relationships are stuck? I want you to know change is possible. Through our work together, we will discover the reasons you continue to struggle, and map out a path to personal recovery. My desire is to help you, your partner, and your family, grow closer, and experience the love, and intimacy that is available to you. The secret to happiness is inside of you, just waiting to be acknowledged. Let me help you embrace emotional freedom by giving you the tools for success in love and life!
(651) 356-8476 View (651) 356-8476
Photo of Larissa Barbaro-Kukade, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Larissa Barbaro-Kukade
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
I believe that the path to healing requires a safe, and trusting relationship between client and therapist. As a psychologist, my main goal is create a warm and welcoming space for clients to feel understood, heard, respected, and safe. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them better understand themselves and the challenges they have faced, improve interpersonal relationships, and promote healing. My approach to therapy is integrative, and client-centered; meeting my clients where they are. We work together to reach their goals and find lasting change, fulfillment, and healing.
I believe that the path to healing requires a safe, and trusting relationship between client and therapist. As a psychologist, my main goal is create a warm and welcoming space for clients to feel understood, heard, respected, and safe. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them better understand themselves and the challenges they have faced, improve interpersonal relationships, and promote healing. My approach to therapy is integrative, and client-centered; meeting my clients where they are. We work together to reach their goals and find lasting change, fulfillment, and healing.
(952) 234-6824 x116 View (952) 234-6824 x116
Photo of Mark Gemmell, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Mark Gemmell
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55436
"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." Ralph Waldo Emerson. Many people that pursue psychotherapy do so because they feel stuck. The goal of therapy is the clarification of what we actually think and feel toward the goal of getting unstuck, and becoming who you are meant to be. Life presents challenges. If this is where you are, you're probably right on track. I also have extensive experience in addictive behaviors that prevent us from moving forward. (LIVE VIDEO OPTION AVAILABLE. OFFICE LOCATION: EDINA)
"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." Ralph Waldo Emerson. Many people that pursue psychotherapy do so because they feel stuck. The goal of therapy is the clarification of what we actually think and feel toward the goal of getting unstuck, and becoming who you are meant to be. Life presents challenges. If this is where you are, you're probably right on track. I also have extensive experience in addictive behaviors that prevent us from moving forward. (LIVE VIDEO OPTION AVAILABLE. OFFICE LOCATION: EDINA)
(612) 999-2239 View (612) 999-2239
Photo of Patricia Holdahl, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Holdahl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55439
Same sh#t different day? You want to feel better and your life to be better. I want that for you, too. Sometimes we know exactly what is happening and why things are as they are. Other times, it may seem more mysterious, or outside of our awareness. Understanding yourself will help to put you in the driver's seat of your own life so you can move in the direction you'd like to be going. It is both courageous and intensely rewarding to peer deeply, inquisitively at one's own self. This is what you require to grow, move forward and thrive in your life. I can help you to gain self-compassion, understanding, growth and acceptance.
Same sh#t different day? You want to feel better and your life to be better. I want that for you, too. Sometimes we know exactly what is happening and why things are as they are. Other times, it may seem more mysterious, or outside of our awareness. Understanding yourself will help to put you in the driver's seat of your own life so you can move in the direction you'd like to be going. It is both courageous and intensely rewarding to peer deeply, inquisitively at one's own self. This is what you require to grow, move forward and thrive in your life. I can help you to gain self-compassion, understanding, growth and acceptance.
(952) 234-8699 View (952) 234-8699
Photo of Daphne L DeMaris, MA, LPC, LPCC, MHC, Counselor
Daphne L DeMaris
Counselor, MA, LPC, LPCC, MHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435  (Online Only)
Are you tired of feeling anxious or depressed? Do life circumstances all too easily stress you out? If you want to find peace and gain control of your emotions; I can help you move what may seem like an emotional mountain. Together we will uncover the life events, thoughts and physical health issues that contribute. Together we will build strategies for greater health. Find that tiny mustard seed of faith. Have hope because Jesus took a beating for your healing. Don't leave that healing in God's storehouse of blessings. Reach out for it! Don't just seek to stop pain. Seek the fullness of healing God has for you in this life.
Are you tired of feeling anxious or depressed? Do life circumstances all too easily stress you out? If you want to find peace and gain control of your emotions; I can help you move what may seem like an emotional mountain. Together we will uncover the life events, thoughts and physical health issues that contribute. Together we will build strategies for greater health. Find that tiny mustard seed of faith. Have hope because Jesus took a beating for your healing. Don't leave that healing in God's storehouse of blessings. Reach out for it! Don't just seek to stop pain. Seek the fullness of healing God has for you in this life.
(651) 448-4192 View (651) 448-4192
Photo of Michael Kosim, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michael Kosim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edina, MN 55435
I help middle-age couples who are stuck in the same fight over and over again break their cycle. People who see me long for their best friend to come back and want to reconnect with their partner.
I help middle-age couples who are stuck in the same fight over and over again break their cycle. People who see me long for their best friend to come back and want to reconnect with their partner.
(612) 230-7171 View (612) 230-7171
Photo of Janice Maidman, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Janice Maidman
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Edina, MN 55424
MORE THAN JUST LISTENING When you change, the world around you changes. . Are you stuck somewhere in your life? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner or with your family? Does it seem that you are sad for no reason or are constantly worrying for no reason? Have you had losses and feel stuck in moving on ? Is your mind busy with self critical or negative talk? Wherever you are on your journey, I can meet you and we together can create changes you are looking for.
MORE THAN JUST LISTENING When you change, the world around you changes. . Are you stuck somewhere in your life? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner or with your family? Does it seem that you are sad for no reason or are constantly worrying for no reason? Have you had losses and feel stuck in moving on ? Is your mind busy with self critical or negative talk? Wherever you are on your journey, I can meet you and we together can create changes you are looking for.
(952) 955-9282 View (952) 955-9282
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.