Emotionally Focused Therapists in Missoula, MT

Photo of Suzy Rizza, MA, PCLC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Suzy Rizza
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PCLC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59804
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize EMDR, emotionally focused therapy, and reality therapy.
Many of us will go through times in our lives that feel like too much to navigate on our own - life transitions, grief, relationship difficulties. In those times, it can be useful to have someone to help explore how we learned to cope and encourage positive change, resilience, and healthy relationships. My primary goal is to provide space for you to be heard, seen, understood and know that you are not alone in your struggles (because we seldom are)! I have experience working with intimate relationships, intimate partner violence, life transitions, and parenting issues.
I utilize EMDR, emotionally focused therapy, and reality therapy.
Many of us will go through times in our lives that feel like too much to navigate on our own - life transitions, grief, relationship difficulties. In those times, it can be useful to have someone to help explore how we learned to cope and encourage positive change, resilience, and healthy relationships. My primary goal is to provide space for you to be heard, seen, understood and know that you are not alone in your struggles (because we seldom are)! I have experience working with intimate relationships, intimate partner violence, life transitions, and parenting issues.
(406) 505-4902 View (406) 505-4902
Photo of Beth Cavaliere, LCPC, Counselor
Beth Cavaliere
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59802
I have twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples in a psychodynamic approach. My orientation includes attachment theory, schema therapy, psychoanalysis, emotionally focused therapy, and mindfulness. My goal is to help you reduce your emotional suffering, better understand yourself, improve your relationships, and become a happier and more relaxed person.
I have twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples in a psychodynamic approach. My orientation includes attachment theory, schema therapy, psychoanalysis, emotionally focused therapy, and mindfulness. My goal is to help you reduce your emotional suffering, better understand yourself, improve your relationships, and become a happier and more relaxed person.
(406) 415-2338 View (406) 415-2338
Photo of Kelly P Scariano, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly P Scariano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59802
For couples, we will use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) while developing healthy communication, rebuilding intimacy and trust as they fall in love again.
Hello! My name is Kelly Scariano and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missoula. I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults to help them create lasting and powerful change in their lives. I specialize in relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety and grief/loss. By assisting clients in gaining insight and self-awareness we work together to identify and resolve unhealthy behaviors, which are getting in the way of forming lasting and loving relationships. I am known for my warmth, compassion and insight. I create safety, trust and a strong working relationship with each individual or couple.
For couples, we will use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) while developing healthy communication, rebuilding intimacy and trust as they fall in love again.
Hello! My name is Kelly Scariano and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missoula. I am passionate about working with adolescents and adults to help them create lasting and powerful change in their lives. I specialize in relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety and grief/loss. By assisting clients in gaining insight and self-awareness we work together to identify and resolve unhealthy behaviors, which are getting in the way of forming lasting and loving relationships. I am known for my warmth, compassion and insight. I create safety, trust and a strong working relationship with each individual or couple.
(406) 204-0498 View (406) 204-0498
Photo of Katrina O'Neil, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina O'Neil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
Are you overwhelmed and looking for answers, but just don't know where to begin? Every individual has a story; so do families and communities. As we compile these accounts, we realize that the fragments form a collage; not the entire picture, but pieces which symbolize the possibility for a whole. Therapy can be a safe space for exploring and integrating the past in an effort to become more present. You are the expert in your own life experiences and I can be your partner in honoring that narrative.
Are you overwhelmed and looking for answers, but just don't know where to begin? Every individual has a story; so do families and communities. As we compile these accounts, we realize that the fragments form a collage; not the entire picture, but pieces which symbolize the possibility for a whole. Therapy can be a safe space for exploring and integrating the past in an effort to become more present. You are the expert in your own life experiences and I can be your partner in honoring that narrative.
(406) 564-1513 View (406) 564-1513
Photo of Sami J. Lemons-Velez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sami J. Lemons-Velez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
If you are navigating complex intimate relationship dynamics, I encourage you to seek the support of an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) certified therapist for specialized care.
It all begins with a question. Often clients consider therapy in the midst of challenging circumstances unfolding in their life - confused, bewildered - seeking a reassuring presence to walk alongside them. I offer a warm, engaging presence to help you sift, sort and begin making sense of the emotional terrain you are walking. Together, we will gently explore questions such as "given this experience, who am I now?" I believe we each possess a sacred landscape within - with gifts, hopes, dreams, and strengths beneath the surface - not lost, but often covered by the grit of storms that sometimes move through our lives.
If you are navigating complex intimate relationship dynamics, I encourage you to seek the support of an Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) certified therapist for specialized care.
It all begins with a question. Often clients consider therapy in the midst of challenging circumstances unfolding in their life - confused, bewildered - seeking a reassuring presence to walk alongside them. I offer a warm, engaging presence to help you sift, sort and begin making sense of the emotional terrain you are walking. Together, we will gently explore questions such as "given this experience, who am I now?" I believe we each possess a sacred landscape within - with gifts, hopes, dreams, and strengths beneath the surface - not lost, but often covered by the grit of storms that sometimes move through our lives.
(406) 732-7956 View (406) 732-7956
Photo of Theresa O'Keefe, MS, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa O'Keefe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
With a focus on attachment and trauma, I use EMDR, EFT, Expressive Arts and various other models to create emotional healing.
My “Therapist Mission Statement” is to aid you on your journey of emotional healing, courageous vulnerability, and attachment security. I work from a perspective that prioritizes the importance of emotions, self-esteem, and relationships. Clients have described me as “warm, collaborative, easy to talk to, and insightful”. I strive to facilitate therapy that is as helpful and comfortable as possible. I believe in crafting each session to the specific needs of the individual or couple. At different times I will be your cheerleader, emotional witness, process consultant, reality-checker, co-regulator, and emotional translator.
With a focus on attachment and trauma, I use EMDR, EFT, Expressive Arts and various other models to create emotional healing.
My “Therapist Mission Statement” is to aid you on your journey of emotional healing, courageous vulnerability, and attachment security. I work from a perspective that prioritizes the importance of emotions, self-esteem, and relationships. Clients have described me as “warm, collaborative, easy to talk to, and insightful”. I strive to facilitate therapy that is as helpful and comfortable as possible. I believe in crafting each session to the specific needs of the individual or couple. At different times I will be your cheerleader, emotional witness, process consultant, reality-checker, co-regulator, and emotional translator.
(406) 820-1443 x8 View (406) 820-1443 x8
Photo of Hillary Funk Welzenbach, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Hillary Funk Welzenbach
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
I have training in Hakomi, Sensorimotor, and the Discipline of Authentic Movement and Emotionally Focused Couples therapy - all body oriented mindfulness based treatment modalities.
Offering in person indoor and outdoor sessions as well as telehealth. If we have a chance to work together I will offer you my presence and attention. We will work together to help you see yourself more clearly, make choices that support your healthy growth, and address your goals so that your experience of life is more positive. I see families, couples, and individual adults. I have experience helping folks with personal growth, depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, marriage issues, divorce, parenting, family conflict. I also offer movement therapy groups using The Discipline of Authentic Movement.
I have training in Hakomi, Sensorimotor, and the Discipline of Authentic Movement and Emotionally Focused Couples therapy - all body oriented mindfulness based treatment modalities.
Offering in person indoor and outdoor sessions as well as telehealth. If we have a chance to work together I will offer you my presence and attention. We will work together to help you see yourself more clearly, make choices that support your healthy growth, and address your goals so that your experience of life is more positive. I see families, couples, and individual adults. I have experience helping folks with personal growth, depression, anxiety, trauma, sexual abuse, marriage issues, divorce, parenting, family conflict. I also offer movement therapy groups using The Discipline of Authentic Movement.
(406) 564-4009 View (406) 564-4009
Photo of Katherine Gillispie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Gillispie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
In collaboration with you, my practice is focused on delivering couples and individual therapy for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or relationship challenges. I provide therapy and interventions through an attachment lens, with your needs and priorities in mind. My approach is relational & warm with understanding and empathy while I assist you in building on already present strengths, attunement, and resiliency within. Among other therapy modalities I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR).
In collaboration with you, my practice is focused on delivering couples and individual therapy for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, and/or relationship challenges. I provide therapy and interventions through an attachment lens, with your needs and priorities in mind. My approach is relational & warm with understanding and empathy while I assist you in building on already present strengths, attunement, and resiliency within. Among other therapy modalities I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR).
(406) 529-9516 View (406) 529-9516
Photo of Becca Barcom, MA, PCLC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Becca Barcom
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PCLC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
I have completed specialty trainings in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Level I, EFT Couples Counseling Externship, and Attachment Focused EMDR.
We as humans experience life’s highest highs, lowest lows, and everything in between. I work collaboratively with clients to make meaning out of whatever life sends your way- my clients and I create a trusting relationship to explore any emotions, thoughts, or sensations that arise. I believe everyone has the capability to build resilience and make meaning of the world and our place in it. By drawing on the connection with ourselves, others, and the natural world, everyone can experience healing. No matter what you've faced, we will work together towards your goals and personal growth.
I have completed specialty trainings in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Level I, EFT Couples Counseling Externship, and Attachment Focused EMDR.
We as humans experience life’s highest highs, lowest lows, and everything in between. I work collaboratively with clients to make meaning out of whatever life sends your way- my clients and I create a trusting relationship to explore any emotions, thoughts, or sensations that arise. I believe everyone has the capability to build resilience and make meaning of the world and our place in it. By drawing on the connection with ourselves, others, and the natural world, everyone can experience healing. No matter what you've faced, we will work together towards your goals and personal growth.
(406) 732-8350 View (406) 732-8350
Photo of Lida Running Crane, NCC, LCPC, LAC, Counselor
Lida Running Crane
Counselor, NCC, LCPC, LAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59808
Hi my name is Lida Running Crane and I have recently transitioned to private practice after being a clinician at a local agency working primarily with our local urban Indigenous community for just short of nine years. I subsequently co-founded Aitapissko Counseling Collective LLC, the shared professional home in which my colleagues and I continue to offer quality mental health and addiction counseling to our local community. I earned my masters in counseling from the University of Montana in 2016 with my NCC, became an LCPC in 2018, and an LAC in 2020.
Hi my name is Lida Running Crane and I have recently transitioned to private practice after being a clinician at a local agency working primarily with our local urban Indigenous community for just short of nine years. I subsequently co-founded Aitapissko Counseling Collective LLC, the shared professional home in which my colleagues and I continue to offer quality mental health and addiction counseling to our local community. I earned my masters in counseling from the University of Montana in 2016 with my NCC, became an LCPC in 2018, and an LAC in 2020.
(406) 964-6019 View (406) 964-6019
Photo of Mitch Guerette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mitch Guerette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59803
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that all people are capable of healing from past trauma and making changes to improve their lives. I feel fortunate to be able to help people through these processes. I work hard to earn my clients' trust by offering them authenticity, understanding, and unconditional positive regard. I have been in the mental health field for 16 years and I have been practicing therapy in Missoula for the past 14 years.
I believe that all people are capable of healing from past trauma and making changes to improve their lives. I feel fortunate to be able to help people through these processes. I work hard to earn my clients' trust by offering them authenticity, understanding, and unconditional positive regard. I have been in the mental health field for 16 years and I have been practicing therapy in Missoula for the past 14 years.
(406) 412-1786 View (406) 412-1786
Photo of Christopher Beard, Counsel, MA, LCPC
Christopher Beard
Counsel, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59801
One thing in life is certain, life doesn't unfold like we thought it would. I have over 22 years of experience. I have worked in a mental health hospital, adolescent boys ranch, Cancer Treatment Center, counseling office and counseled as a pastor. My goal is to provide a secure place to offer help, hope, and healing. My mission: to assist clients in cultivating relationships that promote freedom, intimacy, engagement and truth. I meet with individuals, couples (EFT) and families experiencing emotional, relational, spiritual, and marital distress by providing a range of high-quality mental health services that promote wholeness.
One thing in life is certain, life doesn't unfold like we thought it would. I have over 22 years of experience. I have worked in a mental health hospital, adolescent boys ranch, Cancer Treatment Center, counseling office and counseled as a pastor. My goal is to provide a secure place to offer help, hope, and healing. My mission: to assist clients in cultivating relationships that promote freedom, intimacy, engagement and truth. I meet with individuals, couples (EFT) and families experiencing emotional, relational, spiritual, and marital distress by providing a range of high-quality mental health services that promote wholeness.
(406) 203-0923 View (406) 203-0923
Photo of Jack L Cowden, MA, PCLC, Counselor
Jack L Cowden
Counselor, MA, PCLC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59804
With couples, I also use an EFT framework.
Counseling can help us understand our experiences and relationships, work towards our goals, address specific symptoms, and manage diagnoses. Counseling can also go beyond any narrow definition or focus. It can be for anyone who is interested in what could arise from this radically open yet controlled and limited relationship. Whatever the client's unique experiences and concerns, I approach counseling as a process that combines pragmatism with openness, kindness and encouragement, and I think of wellbeing as something that is defined by the client—by their values, relationships, history, desires, contexts, and more.
With couples, I also use an EFT framework.
Counseling can help us understand our experiences and relationships, work towards our goals, address specific symptoms, and manage diagnoses. Counseling can also go beyond any narrow definition or focus. It can be for anyone who is interested in what could arise from this radically open yet controlled and limited relationship. Whatever the client's unique experiences and concerns, I approach counseling as a process that combines pragmatism with openness, kindness and encouragement, and I think of wellbeing as something that is defined by the client—by their values, relationships, history, desires, contexts, and more.
(406) 637-7562 View (406) 637-7562
Photo of Kora Perugini, MA, PCLC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kora Perugini
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PCLC, NCC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59801
In my therapeutic practice, I prioritize building strong and compassionate relationships with each of my clients. I work with adults, teens, and couples across their lifespan on topics of present distress to prolonged hardship. My clinical experience includes working with individuals on issues and experiences surrounding depression, grief and loss, sexuality and gender, family and intimate relationships, religious trauma, and anxiety. I am currently in speciality trainings for Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. My approach incorporates Attachment & Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and a systems lens.
In my therapeutic practice, I prioritize building strong and compassionate relationships with each of my clients. I work with adults, teens, and couples across their lifespan on topics of present distress to prolonged hardship. My clinical experience includes working with individuals on issues and experiences surrounding depression, grief and loss, sexuality and gender, family and intimate relationships, religious trauma, and anxiety. I am currently in speciality trainings for Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. My approach incorporates Attachment & Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and a systems lens.
(406) 501-4805 View (406) 501-4805
Photo of Glenn Blumenson, PhD, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Glenn Blumenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59802
I have trained at the Ackerman Institute for the Family as well as the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Each of us experience times in our lives wherein we struggle to be our best selves. Whether your goal is to better navigate your own emotional landscape or improve interactions with your loved ones, I would be honored to help you along your journey. I work with Individuals, Couples and Families around issues such as Anxiety, Depression, Illness, Relationship concerns, Sexual Health/Sexuality, and Communication. My calm, caring and collaborative approach helps create a comfortable environment that promotes desired change.
I have trained at the Ackerman Institute for the Family as well as the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Each of us experience times in our lives wherein we struggle to be our best selves. Whether your goal is to better navigate your own emotional landscape or improve interactions with your loved ones, I would be honored to help you along your journey. I work with Individuals, Couples and Families around issues such as Anxiety, Depression, Illness, Relationship concerns, Sexual Health/Sexuality, and Communication. My calm, caring and collaborative approach helps create a comfortable environment that promotes desired change.
(406) 534-7393 View (406) 534-7393
Photo of Glenyss Carney, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Glenyss Carney
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
Using a well-researched "map" from Emotionally Focused Therapy, we will find our way through the landscape of fights or not fighting/not communicating, heal the places where hearts got broken by actions or inaction, and find greater trust and love, clear communication, and heart-felt connection.
Do you feel stuck in communicating with your partner, having the same arguments over and over; you can't seem to work through things? I can help you identify that negative pattern, and learn to step out of it and rediscover love and happiness. I do that with couples by looking at the ways that they get stuck or disconnected. Maybe you are also struggling with feeling the need for more comfort or understanding or needing to regain lost trust. What you and I will do is look at what prevents those things from happening right now in your relationship.
Using a well-researched "map" from Emotionally Focused Therapy, we will find our way through the landscape of fights or not fighting/not communicating, heal the places where hearts got broken by actions or inaction, and find greater trust and love, clear communication, and heart-felt connection.
Do you feel stuck in communicating with your partner, having the same arguments over and over; you can't seem to work through things? I can help you identify that negative pattern, and learn to step out of it and rediscover love and happiness. I do that with couples by looking at the ways that they get stuck or disconnected. Maybe you are also struggling with feeling the need for more comfort or understanding or needing to regain lost trust. What you and I will do is look at what prevents those things from happening right now in your relationship.
(406) 204-4949 View (406) 204-4949
Photo of Cyndi McNeil, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cyndi McNeil
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801
I am specially trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, which is considered the "Gold Standard" of couples therapy.
When the world whispers "Give up", Hope whispers "Try one more time". If you are looking to improve your life and your relationships, I can help. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I work with children, adults, and couples to heal old wounds and transform their lives for the better. You are not alone in your challenges, and you do not have to carry your burden by yourself. Together, we can work to make sense of your life, achieve greater happiness, richer relationships, peace of mind, and inner strength.
I am specially trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, which is considered the "Gold Standard" of couples therapy.
When the world whispers "Give up", Hope whispers "Try one more time". If you are looking to improve your life and your relationships, I can help. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I work with children, adults, and couples to heal old wounds and transform their lives for the better. You are not alone in your challenges, and you do not have to carry your burden by yourself. Together, we can work to make sense of your life, achieve greater happiness, richer relationships, peace of mind, and inner strength.
(406) 204-4506 View (406) 204-4506
Photo of Susan 'sunny' Mavor - Sunny Mavor Online Counseling, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Sunny Mavor Online Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Missoula, MT 59801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have been in practice since 2005, and have developed a specialty in Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals, a powerful and effective method for healing yourself and your relationship in the midst of challenges.
Hi - Welcome to ONLINE counseling. I have a unique practice that supports people from all over Montana --- after 15 years of seeing couples and individuals in person in my Bozeman office, I'm now working exclusively with individuals online. I have had the honor of helping hundreds of Montanans conquer their depression or anxiety, regain their confidence, improve their communication skills, renew their relationship by working on themselves ... and to get back to being the person they want to be. I think you'll be surprised at how comfortable online therapy feels - it's just like sitting in the same room.
I have been in practice since 2005, and have developed a specialty in Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals, a powerful and effective method for healing yourself and your relationship in the midst of challenges.
Hi - Welcome to ONLINE counseling. I have a unique practice that supports people from all over Montana --- after 15 years of seeing couples and individuals in person in my Bozeman office, I'm now working exclusively with individuals online. I have had the honor of helping hundreds of Montanans conquer their depression or anxiety, regain their confidence, improve their communication skills, renew their relationship by working on themselves ... and to get back to being the person they want to be. I think you'll be surprised at how comfortable online therapy feels - it's just like sitting in the same room.
(406) 306-1415 View (406) 306-1415
Photo of Somer Radvanyi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Somer Radvanyi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59803
I use a client-centered hybrid approach drawing from models/skills such as solution focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, structural therapy, DBT, emotionally focused, and others.
I'm licensed in WA, ID & MT. I'm an AAMFT Supervisor Candidate. Burdens of trauma can impact your love life, work life, friendships, and how you see yourself in the world. Each person is doing the very best they can. Within you are strengths I want to build on. Working together we will come up with strategies tailored to you. I work with military families, couples, adults, teens, and foster youth with various challenges (ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, social difficulties, etc.) I provide private pay for family/reunification therapy.
I use a client-centered hybrid approach drawing from models/skills such as solution focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, structural therapy, DBT, emotionally focused, and others.
I'm licensed in WA, ID & MT. I'm an AAMFT Supervisor Candidate. Burdens of trauma can impact your love life, work life, friendships, and how you see yourself in the world. Each person is doing the very best they can. Within you are strengths I want to build on. Working together we will come up with strategies tailored to you. I work with military families, couples, adults, teens, and foster youth with various challenges (ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, social difficulties, etc.) I provide private pay for family/reunification therapy.
(509) 992-8276 View (509) 992-8276
Photo of Amy Gazy, SWLC, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amy Gazy
Pre-Licensed Professional, SWLC, MSW
Verified Verified
Missoula, MT 59802
It is an honor to have the opportunity to accompany you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. If you’re ready to take the first step towards positive change, I am here to help. Whether you are seeking support through life’s challenges, looking to explore personal growth, or simply need a listening ear, know that you are in a safe and welcoming environment. As your counselor I want to walk alongside you with compassionate support and guidance to navigate whatever may be weighing on your heart and mind.
It is an honor to have the opportunity to accompany you on your journey towards healing and self-discovery. If you’re ready to take the first step towards positive change, I am here to help. Whether you are seeking support through life’s challenges, looking to explore personal growth, or simply need a listening ear, know that you are in a safe and welcoming environment. As your counselor I want to walk alongside you with compassionate support and guidance to navigate whatever may be weighing on your heart and mind.
(406) 296-5014 View (406) 296-5014

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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.