Emotionally Focused Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Mandy Bowlin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mandy Bowlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing- EMDR for trauma & Emotionally Focused Therapy- EFT for relationships.
Are you having difficulty with relationships and connecting with others? Are you impacted by trauma, stressful relationships such as caregiving, family members with substance use, your own substance use, or conflict in relationships? Is you history influencing your present day life? Are you looking for a therapeutic relationship that will be comfortable for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so you can begin to find peace, increased self-worth, better boundaries, and improved ability to feel joy and be present? If you relate to these concerns send me an email and lets talk.
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing- EMDR for trauma & Emotionally Focused Therapy- EFT for relationships.
Are you having difficulty with relationships and connecting with others? Are you impacted by trauma, stressful relationships such as caregiving, family members with substance use, your own substance use, or conflict in relationships? Is you history influencing your present day life? Are you looking for a therapeutic relationship that will be comfortable for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors so you can begin to find peace, increased self-worth, better boundaries, and improved ability to feel joy and be present? If you relate to these concerns send me an email and lets talk.
(314) 274-6602 View (314) 274-6602
Photo of Ed Killeen, MDiv, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ed Killeen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Over half of my work is with couples. Through training and supervision in Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), I can see and hear needs and feelings long hidden for fear of being hurt again. I empathize and acknowledge real wrongs and real emotional damage to trust and respect. I hear both sides. I also offer hope. I can see when marital conflict itself offers evidence that partners still desire and need each other. I know how difficult a process forgiveness and then trust building really are. Slowly, when even one is ready to love again, I equip both to express their hearts with a gentle strength, and to hear with compassion.
Over half of my work is with couples. Through training and supervision in Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), I can see and hear needs and feelings long hidden for fear of being hurt again. I empathize and acknowledge real wrongs and real emotional damage to trust and respect. I hear both sides. I also offer hope. I can see when marital conflict itself offers evidence that partners still desire and need each other. I know how difficult a process forgiveness and then trust building really are. Slowly, when even one is ready to love again, I equip both to express their hearts with a gentle strength, and to hear with compassion.
(314) 309-3366 x1 View (314) 309-3366 x1
Photo of Sarah Howell
Sarah Howell
Licensed Master Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
My approach is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) for individuals, couples, and families, complemented by Gottman interventions and creative art and expressive techniques.
Are you feeling trapped in a dizzying maze of emotional distress and longing for deeper connections but struggling due to relationship struggles, unresolved trauma, or a loved one’s illness? Whether you're wrestling with the shadows of a difficult past, feeling the sting of relationship trauma, or navigating grief, I would like to walk alongside you. I understand the pain of feeling alone, stuck and craving a deeper connection. Picture yourself escaping the labyrinth of emotional distress and imagine the warmth and safety of a secure connection with yourself & others. Envision a future where you feel safe, secure, loved, & soothed.
My approach is grounded in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) for individuals, couples, and families, complemented by Gottman interventions and creative art and expressive techniques.
Are you feeling trapped in a dizzying maze of emotional distress and longing for deeper connections but struggling due to relationship struggles, unresolved trauma, or a loved one’s illness? Whether you're wrestling with the shadows of a difficult past, feeling the sting of relationship trauma, or navigating grief, I would like to walk alongside you. I understand the pain of feeling alone, stuck and craving a deeper connection. Picture yourself escaping the labyrinth of emotional distress and imagine the warmth and safety of a secure connection with yourself & others. Envision a future where you feel safe, secure, loved, & soothed.
(314) 350-8734 View (314) 350-8734
Photo of Alice Pierce, MSW, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alice Pierce
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
I tailor my approach to each client, drawing on modalities including Emotionally Focused, Mindfulness (including Mindful Self Compassion), Cognitive Behavioral, and Attachment Theory.
Do you feel overwhelmed by your life or anxious without knowing exactly why or how to address it? Maybe you worry about what’s next or are stuck in a loop in one of your relationships, repeating the same argument over and over. This could be complicated by ADHD, a life transition, or health challenges. I love helping clients who want to learn about themselves, actively address problems and heal wounds, as well as build skills and develop resilience to create the lives they want. I balance accepting who you are with gently challenging you to grow.
I tailor my approach to each client, drawing on modalities including Emotionally Focused, Mindfulness (including Mindful Self Compassion), Cognitive Behavioral, and Attachment Theory.
Do you feel overwhelmed by your life or anxious without knowing exactly why or how to address it? Maybe you worry about what’s next or are stuck in a loop in one of your relationships, repeating the same argument over and over. This could be complicated by ADHD, a life transition, or health challenges. I love helping clients who want to learn about themselves, actively address problems and heal wounds, as well as build skills and develop resilience to create the lives they want. I balance accepting who you are with gently challenging you to grow.
(314) 936-4641 View (314) 936-4641
Photo of Emily Seligson, MA, PLPC
Emily Seligson
MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
She will often draw from elements of DBT, EFT, trauma-informed therapies, and attachment theory in her work with her clients.
Many of us long for genuine connection and safety in relation to ourselves and to others. Sometimes we want to better understand who we are and where we came from, but it can feel daunting to even know where to begin. Other times, we hope for tools and awareness that can enable us to feel more regulated, as we move forward through challenging moments. Whatever it is that brought you here today, Emily finds it to be an honor to walk alongside you. Through a fostering of safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, she strives to create healthy settings for change, growth, and healing.
She will often draw from elements of DBT, EFT, trauma-informed therapies, and attachment theory in her work with her clients.
Many of us long for genuine connection and safety in relation to ourselves and to others. Sometimes we want to better understand who we are and where we came from, but it can feel daunting to even know where to begin. Other times, we hope for tools and awareness that can enable us to feel more regulated, as we move forward through challenging moments. Whatever it is that brought you here today, Emily finds it to be an honor to walk alongside you. Through a fostering of safety and trust in the therapeutic relationship, she strives to create healthy settings for change, growth, and healing.
(314) 635-9206 View (314) 635-9206
Photo of James Douglas Pettinelli - J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
My therapeutic framework is relational, interpersonal, emotionally focused and developmental.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families from a relational, trauma informed, attachment informed, developmental perspective. Trained in child psychotherapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I work to understand clients within the context of their primary and family relationships. I especially enjoy working with couples and families. I work to identify the emotional and interpersonal obstacles to further growth, and build on the strength and resilience of the individual, couple and family. .I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing the full range of emotional, social and developmental difficulties.
My therapeutic framework is relational, interpersonal, emotionally focused and developmental.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families from a relational, trauma informed, attachment informed, developmental perspective. Trained in child psychotherapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I work to understand clients within the context of their primary and family relationships. I especially enjoy working with couples and families. I work to identify the emotional and interpersonal obstacles to further growth, and build on the strength and resilience of the individual, couple and family. .I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing the full range of emotional, social and developmental difficulties.
(314) 858-5040 View (314) 858-5040
Photo of Amy Goldstein, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Goldstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CSAM, CHT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
I also have obtained special training in: (CBT), (ART) Accelerated Resolution , (EMDR) Eye movement desensitization, (PMT) Parent Management, ( EFT) Emotional Focused Therapy.
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
I also have obtained special training in: (CBT), (ART) Accelerated Resolution , (EMDR) Eye movement desensitization, (PMT) Parent Management, ( EFT) Emotional Focused Therapy.
I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment where my clients can explore their issues and challenges they face. I see a wide array of clients with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, relationship issues, anger issues etc. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better. I am currently accepting new clients, and my services are offered at a reduced rate which makes affordability an option. My location is in Creve Coeur which is 20 minutes from O'Fallon, 15 minutes to Chesterfield, and approx 25 minutes to downtown.
(636) 577-2397 View (636) 577-2397
Photo of Annie Carrera, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Annie Carrera
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Using an EFT informed approach, I help couples change their patterns.
This is a common pattern in many couples’ relationships and maybe this describes you: prior to getting married, you had a dream. A dream that your relationship would be like the ones portrayed in romantic movies, a life of bliss because you found your perfect person. Then, at some point in your marriage, you asked this question: “How did we get here?” Instead of a foundation of joy and security, you and your spouse find yourselves stuck in conflict cycles that leave you feeling bitter, distant, and hopeless.
Using an EFT informed approach, I help couples change their patterns.
This is a common pattern in many couples’ relationships and maybe this describes you: prior to getting married, you had a dream. A dream that your relationship would be like the ones portrayed in romantic movies, a life of bliss because you found your perfect person. Then, at some point in your marriage, you asked this question: “How did we get here?” Instead of a foundation of joy and security, you and your spouse find yourselves stuck in conflict cycles that leave you feeling bitter, distant, and hopeless.
(314) 474-7228 View (314) 474-7228
Photo of McKayla (Kagie) Robinson, MA, SMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
McKayla (Kagie) Robinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, SMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109  (Online Only)
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and other methods to understand these behaviors helps us replace maladaptive thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors with adaptive ones to live a healthy and happy life.
The therapeutic relationship is one of healing and hope. Facilitating that relationship is very important because I understand the value of working with someone not pushing their usually well-intentioned agenda onto your situation. Someone outside our problems who has no investment in how we handle those problems can offer limitless perspective and an abundance of compassion. In addition to being a listening ear, therapists have many resources and tools to help us navigate whatever challenges and changes life throws at us. This is the type of therapist I strive to be.
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and other methods to understand these behaviors helps us replace maladaptive thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors with adaptive ones to live a healthy and happy life.
The therapeutic relationship is one of healing and hope. Facilitating that relationship is very important because I understand the value of working with someone not pushing their usually well-intentioned agenda onto your situation. Someone outside our problems who has no investment in how we handle those problems can offer limitless perspective and an abundance of compassion. In addition to being a listening ear, therapists have many resources and tools to help us navigate whatever challenges and changes life throws at us. This is the type of therapist I strive to be.
(314) 207-9904 View (314) 207-9904
Photo of Heath Salzman, LPC, MAC, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heath Salzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and my approach to counseling is trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and rooted in interpersonal process theory.
At times, we all find ourselves pushed to the limits of what we can cope with. We work hard to escape familiar, painful cycles, only to end up where we began. Some of us are attempting to salvage marriages with spouses we dearly love, yet with whom we continue to engage in the same old arguments, losing hope that we can ever recover the connection we once had. Others may be battling crippling anxiety or trying to shake the cloud of depression that darkens our every step. We are l eft exhausted, discouraged, and hopeless.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and my approach to counseling is trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and rooted in interpersonal process theory.
At times, we all find ourselves pushed to the limits of what we can cope with. We work hard to escape familiar, painful cycles, only to end up where we began. Some of us are attempting to salvage marriages with spouses we dearly love, yet with whom we continue to engage in the same old arguments, losing hope that we can ever recover the connection we once had. Others may be battling crippling anxiety or trying to shake the cloud of depression that darkens our every step. We are l eft exhausted, discouraged, and hopeless.
(314) 907-3748 View (314) 907-3748
Photo of Kathryn Muñiz, MA
Kathryn Muñiz
MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and my approach to counseling is trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and rooted in family systems theory.
To share your story and start a journey toward healing is profoundly brave and admirable. Being entrusted to walk alongside those who are willing to take that risk is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. I count it as a tremendous honor to be invited to sit with the clients I work with, in moments of vulnerability and hurt and in those of victory and celebration.
I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and my approach to counseling is trauma-informed, attachment-focused, and rooted in family systems theory.
To share your story and start a journey toward healing is profoundly brave and admirable. Being entrusted to walk alongside those who are willing to take that risk is a privilege that I don’t take lightly. I count it as a tremendous honor to be invited to sit with the clients I work with, in moments of vulnerability and hurt and in those of victory and celebration.
(314) 900-3437 View (314) 900-3437
Photo of Megan MacKenzie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan MacKenzie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Drawing primarily from Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), modern psychodynamic theory, and intersectional queer theory, I provide a validating and non-judgmental space for people to explore how past experiences have shaped current beliefs and patterns.
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore explore identities, experience greater pleasure and intimacy, and recalibrate toward more authentic, compassionate, and courageous lives. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
Drawing primarily from Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), modern psychodynamic theory, and intersectional queer theory, I provide a validating and non-judgmental space for people to explore how past experiences have shaped current beliefs and patterns.
As a relationship, sex, and gender therapist, I help couples, relationships, and individuals explore explore identities, experience greater pleasure and intimacy, and recalibrate toward more authentic, compassionate, and courageous lives. I am passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ folks in exploring and healing from the negative impacts of internalized homophobia and transphobia as they often manifest in shame, guilt, and low self-esteem.
(314) 626-0543 View (314) 626-0543
Photo of Nicole Morgan Ely, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Nicole Morgan Ely
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123  (Online Only)
My approach to counseling is eclectic and includes person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EFT, and relational.
Virtual appointments only. I believe that we live in a complex world of beauty and brokenness. My goal is to come alongside you in your suffering while encouraging you towards growing in hope and healing. Relationships are important and I care deeply about my clients and I strive to bring light to my client's strengths to help them face their challenges and start feeling better.
My approach to counseling is eclectic and includes person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EFT, and relational.
Virtual appointments only. I believe that we live in a complex world of beauty and brokenness. My goal is to come alongside you in your suffering while encouraging you towards growing in hope and healing. Relationships are important and I care deeply about my clients and I strive to bring light to my client's strengths to help them face their challenges and start feeling better.
(314) 325-1405 View (314) 325-1405
Photo of Alwyn S Whitehead Jr, PsyD, Psychologist
Alwyn S Whitehead Jr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109  (Online Only)
PTSD symptoms respond best to EFT (tapping), as used for Veterans.
My clients seek help with a specific difficulty. It may be depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, or their path in life. They want to feel happy and fulfilled but have been blocked by some difficulty. When they reach out to accept help they have made the first step in their journey of healing and happiness! We all deserve happiness and modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) provides tools and processes to unblock the natural flow of healing available to us. Plus, anyone can become proficient in using them and applying them to many situations in their life.
PTSD symptoms respond best to EFT (tapping), as used for Veterans.
My clients seek help with a specific difficulty. It may be depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationships, or their path in life. They want to feel happy and fulfilled but have been blocked by some difficulty. When they reach out to accept help they have made the first step in their journey of healing and happiness! We all deserve happiness and modern Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) provides tools and processes to unblock the natural flow of healing available to us. Plus, anyone can become proficient in using them and applying them to many situations in their life.
(314) 897-4635 View (314) 897-4635
Photo of Courtney Loosemore, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Courtney Loosemore
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Courtney is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and EMDR.
"You are loved and you are safe" are words we long to feel as we walk through our days, months and years. Yet, many of us walk through our days feeling fearful, powerless and alone. It is a brave journey to enter into your story and Courtney counts it a privilege to come along side you as you grow towards hope in the midst of the darkness. Courtney desires to partner with you and together explore how you can begin to live life more fully and see growth in areas of struggle.
Courtney is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) and EMDR.
"You are loved and you are safe" are words we long to feel as we walk through our days, months and years. Yet, many of us walk through our days feeling fearful, powerless and alone. It is a brave journey to enter into your story and Courtney counts it a privilege to come along side you as you grow towards hope in the midst of the darkness. Courtney desires to partner with you and together explore how you can begin to live life more fully and see growth in areas of struggle.
(314) 632-6815 View (314) 632-6815
Photo of Brad Werner, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brad Werner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131  (Online Only)
As the only Certified Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy Supervisor in St.
Couples often say to me - "We can't seem to communicate anymore. Why are we having such a hard time understanding each other?" Have you ever felt like this in your relationship? I can help you make the changes necessary to feel connected again as well as create a more hopeful future. We will work with your thoughts, feelings, and actions, in order to recognize and then disrupt your negative cycles of conflict. Then together, we will create new opportunities for increasing closeness. Ultimately, you will see what is not "working", learn "why", and begin to apply new strategies to bring safety and security back to your relationship.
As the only Certified Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy Supervisor in St.
Couples often say to me - "We can't seem to communicate anymore. Why are we having such a hard time understanding each other?" Have you ever felt like this in your relationship? I can help you make the changes necessary to feel connected again as well as create a more hopeful future. We will work with your thoughts, feelings, and actions, in order to recognize and then disrupt your negative cycles of conflict. Then together, we will create new opportunities for increasing closeness. Ultimately, you will see what is not "working", learn "why", and begin to apply new strategies to bring safety and security back to your relationship.
(314) 272-4164 View (314) 272-4164
Photo of Richard B Boswell - Richard B. Boswell, LCSW, L.L.C, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard B. Boswell, LCSW, L.L.C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is highly specialized using evidence-based methods that help couples, families and individuals. I am certified by both the Gottman Institute and the International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy to help couples. I also work with individuals experiencing the challenge of depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, parenting issues or those needing to improve their relationships with the important people in their lives.
My practice is highly specialized using evidence-based methods that help couples, families and individuals. I am certified by both the Gottman Institute and the International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy to help couples. I also work with individuals experiencing the challenge of depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, parenting issues or those needing to improve their relationships with the important people in their lives.
(314) 334-8835 View (314) 334-8835
Photo of Deborah Lynn Gegg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Lynn Gegg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119
Waitlist for new clients
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and/or Emotionally Focused Therapy to help clients achieve their goals.
Anxiety, stress, depression, family and relationship challenges or divorce... I am a compassionate clinical social worker, educated at Washington University, with over 15 years of experience in the St. Louis area. My approach is empathetic and non-judgmental as I help you find solutions that meet the needs of your situation. I am both passionate and well-versed in step-parenting and parenting issues, remarriage and life transitions, including divorce, grief and aging.
I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and/or Emotionally Focused Therapy to help clients achieve their goals.
Anxiety, stress, depression, family and relationship challenges or divorce... I am a compassionate clinical social worker, educated at Washington University, with over 15 years of experience in the St. Louis area. My approach is empathetic and non-judgmental as I help you find solutions that meet the needs of your situation. I am both passionate and well-versed in step-parenting and parenting issues, remarriage and life transitions, including divorce, grief and aging.
(314) 501-9295 View (314) 501-9295
Photo of Rosalind P Denson, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rosalind P Denson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63113  (Online Only)
I offer a person centered, emotionally focused, strength-based approach.
In this life, there will be struggles and challenges, but be encouraged, you do not have to face them alone. Support is here. I would count it a privilege to walk with you as you face a crisis, cope with a life transition, manage stress, anxiety, or grief, and/or seek spiritual direction.
I offer a person centered, emotionally focused, strength-based approach.
In this life, there will be struggles and challenges, but be encouraged, you do not have to face them alone. Support is here. I would count it a privilege to walk with you as you face a crisis, cope with a life transition, manage stress, anxiety, or grief, and/or seek spiritual direction.
(314) 916-6680 View (314) 916-6680
Photo of Suzanna L Brown, LPC, CCATP, CCTP, ASAM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzanna L Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCATP, CCTP, ASAM
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
I hold specialties/certifications in Addictions, Anxiety, Trauma, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
My counseling style is one that explores the intricasies of each person's unique life challenges and strengths to intellectively build their own path through the world. It is my hope that each person knows their value better when they leave than when they came, has gained a holistic persective on their own mental health goals, found more emotional maturity, identified resiliance skills, and leaves with useful tools to measure and continue their own growth throughout life.
I hold specialties/certifications in Addictions, Anxiety, Trauma, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
My counseling style is one that explores the intricasies of each person's unique life challenges and strengths to intellectively build their own path through the world. It is my hope that each person knows their value better when they leave than when they came, has gained a holistic persective on their own mental health goals, found more emotional maturity, identified resiliance skills, and leaves with useful tools to measure and continue their own growth throughout life.
(573) 697-6130 View (573) 697-6130
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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.