Emotionally Focused Therapists in Minnetonka, MN

Photo of Tracy Davis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
We each have unique experiences, challenges, and strengths that shape how we move through the world. Whatever your daily challenges, silent struggles, and unseen battles are, I am committed to walking with you through life's journey. I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to accompany you as you move forward towards becoming your best self. I believe my role as a therapist is to work collaboratively with you to meet your unique goals. I take a systemic, emotionally focused, and attachment-based approach to therapy.
We each have unique experiences, challenges, and strengths that shape how we move through the world. Whatever your daily challenges, silent struggles, and unseen battles are, I am committed to walking with you through life's journey. I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to accompany you as you move forward towards becoming your best self. I believe my role as a therapist is to work collaboratively with you to meet your unique goals. I take a systemic, emotionally focused, and attachment-based approach to therapy.
(952) 522-4997 View (952) 522-4997
Photo of Jesse Beulke, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jesse Beulke
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
In my work, I draw from the lenses of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Symbolic-Experiential Therapy.
It can be difficult to cut through the noise of our fast-paced environment and find genuine peace, purpose, and clarity. Our life experience profoundly impacts our mental health, yet we are not defined by our trauma. I approach my work through a lens of resiliency and hope, and aim to work with each client to balance finding practical solutions with exploring and processing one’s past and present experience. I believe in the importance of developing a therapeutic relationship in which each person can be understood, motivated and empowered to move forward with hope through life’s challenges.
In my work, I draw from the lenses of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Symbolic-Experiential Therapy.
It can be difficult to cut through the noise of our fast-paced environment and find genuine peace, purpose, and clarity. Our life experience profoundly impacts our mental health, yet we are not defined by our trauma. I approach my work through a lens of resiliency and hope, and aim to work with each client to balance finding practical solutions with exploring and processing one’s past and present experience. I believe in the importance of developing a therapeutic relationship in which each person can be understood, motivated and empowered to move forward with hope through life’s challenges.
(651) 409-4624 View (651) 409-4624
Photo of Emma G Johnson, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emma G Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305
I tend to pull from Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
My work primarily focuses on adolescents, young adults, couples, premarital couples, and parent-child relationships. I have extensive experience in anxiety, depression, trauma, relational wounds, spiritual journey issues, church hurt, people in ministry, conflict resolution, family of origin issues, perinatal mental health, and exploring the impact of hormones on daily functioning.
I tend to pull from Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
My work primarily focuses on adolescents, young adults, couples, premarital couples, and parent-child relationships. I have extensive experience in anxiety, depression, trauma, relational wounds, spiritual journey issues, church hurt, people in ministry, conflict resolution, family of origin issues, perinatal mental health, and exploring the impact of hormones on daily functioning.
(952) 333-4421 View (952) 333-4421
Photo of Leah Austin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leah Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305
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 Patti Brown, MA, LMFT, CNTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patti Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CNTP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55343
I have training in many trauma-focused approaches including EMDR, PIT, DART, as well as a lot of couples’ work including RLT, PACT and EFT.
IN PERSON OR TELETHERAPY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE The times are changing and we all need resiliency to get through the current challenges. Stressors are at an all-time high level, leaving many people unprepared for the situations they are experiencing. Under stress, our behavior can fall back to our default settings that were shaped in our early childhood. These patterns may not serve us or our families well. Learning new skills can give us the tools to develop appropriate responses and forge new neuropathways that will enhance the way we connect with the people close to us. Happiness comes from secure connected relationships
I have training in many trauma-focused approaches including EMDR, PIT, DART, as well as a lot of couples’ work including RLT, PACT and EFT.
IN PERSON OR TELETHERAPY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE The times are changing and we all need resiliency to get through the current challenges. Stressors are at an all-time high level, leaving many people unprepared for the situations they are experiencing. Under stress, our behavior can fall back to our default settings that were shaped in our early childhood. These patterns may not serve us or our families well. Learning new skills can give us the tools to develop appropriate responses and forge new neuropathways that will enhance the way we connect with the people close to us. Happiness comes from secure connected relationships
(612) 395-4719 View (612) 395-4719
Photo of Lukas Urbach, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lukas Urbach
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
My approach incorporates evidence-based techniques from various therapeutic modalities, including but not limited to Emotionally Focused Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
My passion lies in guiding couples and individuals on a journey of growth and positive transformation. I specialize in providing support to those facing life's challenges, from managing stress to healing trauma and resolving relationship conflicts. My commitment to you is to create a safe and nurturing space where you can openly express yourself and collaboratively explore solutions. Together, we will work on improving your mental well-being, building stronger, healthier relationships, and helping you realize your full potential. My ultimate purpose is to empower you to lead a more fulfilling and content life.
My approach incorporates evidence-based techniques from various therapeutic modalities, including but not limited to Emotionally Focused Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
My passion lies in guiding couples and individuals on a journey of growth and positive transformation. I specialize in providing support to those facing life's challenges, from managing stress to healing trauma and resolving relationship conflicts. My commitment to you is to create a safe and nurturing space where you can openly express yourself and collaboratively explore solutions. Together, we will work on improving your mental well-being, building stronger, healthier relationships, and helping you realize your full potential. My ultimate purpose is to empower you to lead a more fulfilling and content life.
(763) 265-7144 View (763) 265-7144
Photo of Samantha Iverson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Iverson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55345
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with additional training/experience in EMDR, DBT and PrepareEnrich Premarital Inventory.
I work with individuals who want to continue becoming the best version of themselves, confidently express their thoughts, feelings and emotions, and have compassion for themselves even when they've made a misstep. I also meet with individuals and couples looking to build more assurance in their ability to communicate (especially about the hard stuff), become highly skilled in handling conflict, understand how attachment impacts how we show up in relationships, and see one another with more grace, understanding and positivity. Visit my website to learn more: www.ivysagecounseling.com. Or, email me to book an intro call.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with additional training/experience in EMDR, DBT and PrepareEnrich Premarital Inventory.
I work with individuals who want to continue becoming the best version of themselves, confidently express their thoughts, feelings and emotions, and have compassion for themselves even when they've made a misstep. I also meet with individuals and couples looking to build more assurance in their ability to communicate (especially about the hard stuff), become highly skilled in handling conflict, understand how attachment impacts how we show up in relationships, and see one another with more grace, understanding and positivity. Visit my website to learn more: www.ivysagecounseling.com. Or, email me to book an intro call.
(612) 448-3120 View (612) 448-3120
Photo of Gail M. Yost, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gail M. Yost
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55343
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 Abigail Amundson, MA, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abigail Amundson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305  (Online Only)
Panic? Anxiety? Obsessions/compulsions? It's time to change your thoughts and start living again. It is my hope that we can build a foundation of trust to begin to get to the root of any emotional turmoil you may be feeling. I can be here to help you with any short term or long term problems you may be facing. Life transitions, anxiety, depression, or obsessed thoughts can be managed with the right understanding of your cognitive processes. Through therapy it is my belief that you can weather the struggles of life and grow stronger. If you want to learn more about my practice check out my website: www.cadenzacounselingplc.com
Panic? Anxiety? Obsessions/compulsions? It's time to change your thoughts and start living again. It is my hope that we can build a foundation of trust to begin to get to the root of any emotional turmoil you may be feeling. I can be here to help you with any short term or long term problems you may be facing. Life transitions, anxiety, depression, or obsessed thoughts can be managed with the right understanding of your cognitive processes. Through therapy it is my belief that you can weather the struggles of life and grow stronger. If you want to learn more about my practice check out my website: www.cadenzacounselingplc.com
(612) 324-6437 View (612) 324-6437
Photo of Lois Fischer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lois Fischer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience working with individual adults, adolescents, couples and families. I work from a client-centered perspective. I believe that seeking help does not mean one is “sick, bad, stupid or crazy”. We all feel stuck in life sometimes, which can often bring out hopelessness. Life’s challenges are unavoidable; I am passionate about helping others overcome those obstacles that might feel impossible. While we may be experts on ourselves, we can all benefit from the perspective of someone outside of ourselves to help us find the changes we long to see in our lives.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience working with individual adults, adolescents, couples and families. I work from a client-centered perspective. I believe that seeking help does not mean one is “sick, bad, stupid or crazy”. We all feel stuck in life sometimes, which can often bring out hopelessness. Life’s challenges are unavoidable; I am passionate about helping others overcome those obstacles that might feel impossible. While we may be experts on ourselves, we can all benefit from the perspective of someone outside of ourselves to help us find the changes we long to see in our lives.
(952) 592-9736 x108 View (952) 592-9736 x108
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
Minnetonka, MN 55305
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 Monica Lindahl, MA, LMFT, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Lindahl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305  (Online Only)
Are seemingly small tasks overwhelming? Do changes feel too much to handle? Is food a source of comfort for you? Maybe you feel so much stress that it is easier just to deal with it by hiding, procrastinating, overeating, or drinking alcohol. As a team we can address these concerns and more. Every individual is different, and I tailor my approach to what is most helpful to YOU. This is a collaborative process - you know you best, and we will work together to get you to where you want to be. You won't be alone as you're guided to self-compassion and a sense of peace.
Are seemingly small tasks overwhelming? Do changes feel too much to handle? Is food a source of comfort for you? Maybe you feel so much stress that it is easier just to deal with it by hiding, procrastinating, overeating, or drinking alcohol. As a team we can address these concerns and more. Every individual is different, and I tailor my approach to what is most helpful to YOU. This is a collaborative process - you know you best, and we will work together to get you to where you want to be. You won't be alone as you're guided to self-compassion and a sense of peace.
(612) 439-2238 View (612) 439-2238
Photo of David S Alter, PhD, ABPP, ABPH, LP, Psychologist
David S Alter
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, ABPH, LP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55305
Are you interested in how to use the connections between your mind, brain and body to improve your health, enrich your relationships, and increase your overall life? Working with these connections has been the focus of my 30 years of practice as a psychologist. Since every client's presenting concern in some way or another impacts upon their brain, their mind and their body - whether that involves depression, anxiety, pain, sleep, relationship challenges, or digestive concerns - my orientation to therapy is well positioned to help people get better now and to be better positioned to stay healthier in the future.
Are you interested in how to use the connections between your mind, brain and body to improve your health, enrich your relationships, and increase your overall life? Working with these connections has been the focus of my 30 years of practice as a psychologist. Since every client's presenting concern in some way or another impacts upon their brain, their mind and their body - whether that involves depression, anxiety, pain, sleep, relationship challenges, or digestive concerns - my orientation to therapy is well positioned to help people get better now and to be better positioned to stay healthier in the future.
(763) 400-5950 View (763) 400-5950
Photo of Jill Magnuson, MA, LP, Psychologist
Jill Magnuson
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Minnetonka, MN 55345
I am an experienced Licensed Psychologist with an extensive background providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My primary specialities include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, life transition, relationship issues, and grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is eclectic with a cognitive behavioral and DBT foundation. I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy which I use to address a multitude of mental health symptoms in addition to trauma. I continue to be privileged to work with people who seek to improve the quality of their life and find peace, confidence and strength within themselves.
I am an experienced Licensed Psychologist with an extensive background providing counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, and families. My primary specialities include depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, life transition, relationship issues, and grief and loss. My therapeutic approach is eclectic with a cognitive behavioral and DBT foundation. I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy which I use to address a multitude of mental health symptoms in addition to trauma. I continue to be privileged to work with people who seek to improve the quality of their life and find peace, confidence and strength within themselves.
(952) 260-0350 View (952) 260-0350
Photo of Christina L Kress, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina L Kress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55345
Waitlist for new clients
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
Are you (or your family) stuck? Have you been trying the same things over and over and nothing is changing? Time to try a more direct approach! I can help. My work with clients is rooted in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT is not for the faint-hearted! It is direct, evidence-based and it works. DBT has been proven useful in treating mood disorders, suicidal ideation, and for change in behavioral patterns such as self-harm, and substance abuse. At Minnetonka Counseling I lead adolescent and family DBT groups, adult DBT groups as well as advance DBT workshops for DBT graduates.
(651) 967-8762 View (651) 967-8762
Photo of Melissa Raatz - Know Thyself Healing & Therapy, MSW, LICSW, LMFT, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Know Thyself Healing & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LMFT, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
Know Thyself Healing and Therapy believes all clients hold the key to their own success and can be guided to that end in a safe, trusting, honest environment. Building relationships and skills for growth, understanding and healing are among our goals in therapy. We connect with our own personal journeys through life’s challenges to connect with clients at a deeper level. We believe this allows us to not only empathize with our clients, but also partner with them on their specific healing journey. We believe the keys essential to reaching any goal lies within each of us believing in ourselves and knowing that someone believes in us.
Know Thyself Healing and Therapy believes all clients hold the key to their own success and can be guided to that end in a safe, trusting, honest environment. Building relationships and skills for growth, understanding and healing are among our goals in therapy. We connect with our own personal journeys through life’s challenges to connect with clients at a deeper level. We believe this allows us to not only empathize with our clients, but also partner with them on their specific healing journey. We believe the keys essential to reaching any goal lies within each of us believing in ourselves and knowing that someone believes in us.
(952) 236-4341 View (952) 236-4341
Photo of Ira Shai, MA, MS
Ira Shai
MA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
People say you are a good person with a perfect life, yet you don't feel like it. People say it will work out, yet nothing changes. Some people even say you should wait it out, pray it off, or let it be, yet your heart is not letting you forget about it. In the end, you feel alone. You may feel afraid or ashamed to even talk about it with people close to you. You wonder if others will truly understand you and your situation. You struggle to open up because you do not want to be judged. And I get it.
People say you are a good person with a perfect life, yet you don't feel like it. People say it will work out, yet nothing changes. Some people even say you should wait it out, pray it off, or let it be, yet your heart is not letting you forget about it. In the end, you feel alone. You may feel afraid or ashamed to even talk about it with people close to you. You wonder if others will truly understand you and your situation. You struggle to open up because you do not want to be judged. And I get it.
(651) 927-4414 View (651) 927-4414
Photo of Emily Laconic, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Laconic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
Have you awakened and are struggling to navigate the 3D world? Do you identify as having an awakened consciousness, an empath, spiritual, a WooWoo or on the Red Road? Are you feeling isolated and disconnected because your vibration has increased and created more challenges in relationships? While on this life's journey, have you realized that you experienced trauma in childhood and don't know how to take the next step to heal these wounds? These experiences could be causing anxiety and depression, deflating your self worth and disrupting your focus and sleep.
Have you awakened and are struggling to navigate the 3D world? Do you identify as having an awakened consciousness, an empath, spiritual, a WooWoo or on the Red Road? Are you feeling isolated and disconnected because your vibration has increased and created more challenges in relationships? While on this life's journey, have you realized that you experienced trauma in childhood and don't know how to take the next step to heal these wounds? These experiences could be causing anxiety and depression, deflating your self worth and disrupting your focus and sleep.
(952) 522-2950 View (952) 522-2950
Photo of Debbie Locketz, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Locketz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55345  (Online Only)
Do you feel overwhelmed and nervous about events or decisions you make? Are you someone who works really hard , but still finds yourself struggling, feeling anxious about daily tasks, and often is very hard on yourself. You may not understand why you feel the way you do. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready to make a change . You’re ready to gain deeper insight into yourself and your past experiences. Most of all, you’re ready to start creating new patterns in your life. I want to help you get there.
Do you feel overwhelmed and nervous about events or decisions you make? Are you someone who works really hard , but still finds yourself struggling, feeling anxious about daily tasks, and often is very hard on yourself. You may not understand why you feel the way you do. You may not even remember a time you didn’t feel like this. Either way, one thing is for sure: you’re ready to make a change . You’re ready to gain deeper insight into yourself and your past experiences. Most of all, you’re ready to start creating new patterns in your life. I want to help you get there.
(952) 900-3266 View (952) 900-3266
Photo of Lindsay Johnson, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lindsay Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55305
I hope to be a source of light, hope, and comfort to people walking through life's valleys. I believe fear, guilt, and shame often drive much of our suffering, and I delight in helping people break the chains of their false beliefs and identities and experience the truth and love that sets us free. I am here to assure you that you need not walk this road alone, you are not trapped, and you are not powerless in the face of the challenges life has thrown at you. For those willing, I love to bring Jesus into the healing process, as I believe He is the ultimate healer.
I hope to be a source of light, hope, and comfort to people walking through life's valleys. I believe fear, guilt, and shame often drive much of our suffering, and I delight in helping people break the chains of their false beliefs and identities and experience the truth and love that sets us free. I am here to assure you that you need not walk this road alone, you are not trapped, and you are not powerless in the face of the challenges life has thrown at you. For those willing, I love to bring Jesus into the healing process, as I believe He is the ultimate healer.
(952) 592-4965 View (952) 592-4965
1
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.