Emotionally Focused Therapists in Huntersville, NC

Photo of Erin Byrne, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Erin Byrne
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Waitlist for new clients
Utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy and collaboration, we can work through whatever stage of relationship you are in.
Counseling is a way to activate change, feel empowered, and create your own happiness, and I am here to join you on that journey! Whether you are coming in to work on yourself, or coming as a couple to work on your relationship, I am here to help. I utilize an integrative approach which includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques and collaboration. Together, we can work towards your goals and make positive changes.
Utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy and collaboration, we can work through whatever stage of relationship you are in.
Counseling is a way to activate change, feel empowered, and create your own happiness, and I am here to join you on that journey! Whether you are coming in to work on yourself, or coming as a couple to work on your relationship, I am here to help. I utilize an integrative approach which includes cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques and collaboration. Together, we can work towards your goals and make positive changes.
(704) 343-8486 View (704) 343-8486
Photo of L. JoAnn Mullinix, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
L. JoAnn Mullinix
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
At Sanctuary Counseling Group, we believe in creating therapeutic relationships with our clients that promote the healing of heart, mind, and soul. Therapy is a Sacred Space. As a systemic therapist, I welcome individuals, couples, children, and family systems into the room. I believe in creating a non-judgmental and open context that will often draw from Emotionally Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Experiential Therapy, and Mindfulness-based strategies. I received my Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pfeiffer University and was selected as the Student of the Year by the faculty.
At Sanctuary Counseling Group, we believe in creating therapeutic relationships with our clients that promote the healing of heart, mind, and soul. Therapy is a Sacred Space. As a systemic therapist, I welcome individuals, couples, children, and family systems into the room. I believe in creating a non-judgmental and open context that will often draw from Emotionally Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Experiential Therapy, and Mindfulness-based strategies. I received my Master of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pfeiffer University and was selected as the Student of the Year by the faculty.
(980) 326-5034 View (980) 326-5034
Photo of Kimberly Coons, MA, LMFT, CSAT-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Coons
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I find great joy and success in working with couples through Emotionally Focused Therapy.
"Conflict is the inflammation, disconnection is the virus." Since hearing this quote from Sue Johnson I have not seen a couple, family or individual where this does not ring true. I want to help reconnect you to those you love, while holding a healthy, non judgmental therapeutic relationship. I will work with you to identify, explore and share emotions that often times feel to vulnerable and raw. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with focus on systems and attachment theory I like to work with individuals, families and couples of all ages.
I find great joy and success in working with couples through Emotionally Focused Therapy.
"Conflict is the inflammation, disconnection is the virus." Since hearing this quote from Sue Johnson I have not seen a couple, family or individual where this does not ring true. I want to help reconnect you to those you love, while holding a healthy, non judgmental therapeutic relationship. I will work with you to identify, explore and share emotions that often times feel to vulnerable and raw. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with focus on systems and attachment theory I like to work with individuals, families and couples of all ages.
(704) 706-2505 View (704) 706-2505
Photo of Karen McCabe Barry, MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen McCabe Barry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
I've trained extensively in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) to specialize in relationships and attachment based issues.
Currently I'm only accepting individuals for virtual session. As a marriage and family therapist I work with individuals, couples and family groups.Being an LMFT means being "systemic". I enjoy working with people with a variety of concerns such as: life transitions, relationships, sexual dysfunction, divorce/remarriage and health. I treat mental health issues as well as provide coaching. My focus is integrative, strength-based and client centered, meaning I'll work with you at your speed to achieve your goals. I view coaching and therapy as a collaborate process. Your motivation and our relationship is key.
I've trained extensively in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) to specialize in relationships and attachment based issues.
Currently I'm only accepting individuals for virtual session. As a marriage and family therapist I work with individuals, couples and family groups.Being an LMFT means being "systemic". I enjoy working with people with a variety of concerns such as: life transitions, relationships, sexual dysfunction, divorce/remarriage and health. I treat mental health issues as well as provide coaching. My focus is integrative, strength-based and client centered, meaning I'll work with you at your speed to achieve your goals. I view coaching and therapy as a collaborate process. Your motivation and our relationship is key.
(704) 981-6854 View (704) 981-6854
Photo of Karen Rogich, LCMHCA, MAC, MEd
Karen Rogich
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MAC, MEd
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28070
Karen is trained in EMDR, EFT, Nutrition and integrative Mental Health Counseling, and Somatic Attachment Therapy.
Karen Rogich is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate practicing in the heart of Charlotte, NC. Karen’s therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy, which is insight-oriented. This model explores how our early life experiences relate to current life functioning and relationships to offer choices for change. In her practice, therapy is tailored to each individual. Karen utilizes an integrative model incorporating somatic work, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, health and nutrition, to help clients make lasting changes for meaningful life. Karen enjoys working with adults and couples.
Karen is trained in EMDR, EFT, Nutrition and integrative Mental Health Counseling, and Somatic Attachment Therapy.
Karen Rogich is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate practicing in the heart of Charlotte, NC. Karen’s therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy, which is insight-oriented. This model explores how our early life experiences relate to current life functioning and relationships to offer choices for change. In her practice, therapy is tailored to each individual. Karen utilizes an integrative model incorporating somatic work, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, health and nutrition, to help clients make lasting changes for meaningful life. Karen enjoys working with adults and couples.
(704) 666-8823 View (704) 666-8823
Photo of Brandon Williams, LCMHCA , MA
Brandon Williams
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA , MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070
I incorporate humanistic principles, mindfulness-based practices, emotionally focused therapy, and Somatic Experiencing techniques all within a trauma-informed framework to support your growth and capacity to change how you respond to stress.
We are living in trying times and for many it can feel like it's hard to find the good in our communities, our world, and in ourselves. If you are looking to find inner resilience to navigate personal and/or societal challenges, I can help support you as you discover resources and a wisdom you never know you had. My goal is to help you find an ability to meet chaos with creativity, worry with calm and contentment, pain with personal resolution, helplessness with sustainable action, and fragmentation with a balanced view of life that leads towards a more integrated past, present, and hopeful future.
I incorporate humanistic principles, mindfulness-based practices, emotionally focused therapy, and Somatic Experiencing techniques all within a trauma-informed framework to support your growth and capacity to change how you respond to stress.
We are living in trying times and for many it can feel like it's hard to find the good in our communities, our world, and in ourselves. If you are looking to find inner resilience to navigate personal and/or societal challenges, I can help support you as you discover resources and a wisdom you never know you had. My goal is to help you find an ability to meet chaos with creativity, worry with calm and contentment, pain with personal resolution, helplessness with sustainable action, and fragmentation with a balanced view of life that leads towards a more integrated past, present, and hopeful future.
(980) 414-0701 View (980) 414-0701
Photo of Latasha M. Baydar, MACC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Latasha M. Baydar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling to mend your relationships or marriage? If so, I want you to know that I understand the difficulties you're facing. It can be incredibly challenging, especially when traditional approaches haven't yielded the results you desire. Despite the tough moments, your presence here indicates a belief that positive change is possible, and I'm here to help you navigate that journey. I am dedicated to supporting individuals and couples dealing with anxiety and relational conflicts, providing a safe space to explore and overcome these challenges.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or struggling to mend your relationships or marriage? If so, I want you to know that I understand the difficulties you're facing. It can be incredibly challenging, especially when traditional approaches haven't yielded the results you desire. Despite the tough moments, your presence here indicates a belief that positive change is possible, and I'm here to help you navigate that journey. I am dedicated to supporting individuals and couples dealing with anxiety and relational conflicts, providing a safe space to explore and overcome these challenges.
(704) 908-6781 View (704) 908-6781
Photo of Katherine Waldron, LCMHC, CTP, MA, NCC
Katherine Waldron
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CTP, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
I’m licensed in the states of NC & SC. I see clients in person & virtually in NC & offer telehealth services in for people in SC. I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQIA+, and trauma. I’m an LGBTQIA+ allied therapist and provide trauma-informed therapy. I am a Certified Trauma Professional and as a trauma professional and childhood trauma survivor myself, my goal is to provide a unique, compassionate, and evidence-based approach when providing treatment. I enjoy helping individuals find ways to create and find safety within themselves. I thank you for stopping by and I hope to support you on your journey through this process.
I’m licensed in the states of NC & SC. I see clients in person & virtually in NC & offer telehealth services in for people in SC. I have experience working with ADHD, LGBTQIA+, and trauma. I’m an LGBTQIA+ allied therapist and provide trauma-informed therapy. I am a Certified Trauma Professional and as a trauma professional and childhood trauma survivor myself, my goal is to provide a unique, compassionate, and evidence-based approach when providing treatment. I enjoy helping individuals find ways to create and find safety within themselves. I thank you for stopping by and I hope to support you on your journey through this process.
(704) 327-0826 View (704) 327-0826
Photo of Dani Garrett, MA, NCC, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Dani Garrett
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Waitlist for new clients
Life can become overwhelming, overstimulating, and heavy. You may carry grief, sorrow, anger, stress, and worry in your mind and body. Maybe you experience waves in life where you lose your sense of self, your connection to the world around you, and you may lose meaning or hope during those difficult seasons. I seek to provide guidance for those who are open to the process of self-discovery and healing. My experience lies in working with CPTSD, PTSD, chronic stress, depression, anxiety, self-identity, life transitions, and spiritual concerns. I am passionate about providing gender affirming and culturally sensitive care.
Life can become overwhelming, overstimulating, and heavy. You may carry grief, sorrow, anger, stress, and worry in your mind and body. Maybe you experience waves in life where you lose your sense of self, your connection to the world around you, and you may lose meaning or hope during those difficult seasons. I seek to provide guidance for those who are open to the process of self-discovery and healing. My experience lies in working with CPTSD, PTSD, chronic stress, depression, anxiety, self-identity, life transitions, and spiritual concerns. I am passionate about providing gender affirming and culturally sensitive care.
(704) 850-5228 View (704) 850-5228
Photo of Kyla D. Harvey, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyla D. Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Utilizing a dynamic therapeutic style, that draws from multiple theories, Kyla encourages clients to reconnect and balance emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. Through therapy, clients are inspired to look beyond the constructs of their traumatic experiences in an environment that fosters transparency, honesty, and sustainable growth. I work with issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, anger management, women issues, emotional disturbances, and other life stressors. I believe that childhood experiences play a major role in our lives as adults.
Utilizing a dynamic therapeutic style, that draws from multiple theories, Kyla encourages clients to reconnect and balance emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially. Through therapy, clients are inspired to look beyond the constructs of their traumatic experiences in an environment that fosters transparency, honesty, and sustainable growth. I work with issues such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, anger management, women issues, emotional disturbances, and other life stressors. I believe that childhood experiences play a major role in our lives as adults.
(704) 610-2960 View (704) 610-2960
Photo of Scarlett Harrison, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scarlett Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
I believe life is full of changes, and having someone to walk alongside you can provide relief and essential support. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is client-focused and strength-based, and I’m dedicated to supporting clients as they navigate life changes and trauma. I work with individuals across the lifespan, from age 8 and up, and have experience with adolescent/college-aged individuals, anxiety, depression, parent/child intervention, life transitions, trauma, family therapy, grief/loss/bereavement.
I believe life is full of changes, and having someone to walk alongside you can provide relief and essential support. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My approach is client-focused and strength-based, and I’m dedicated to supporting clients as they navigate life changes and trauma. I work with individuals across the lifespan, from age 8 and up, and have experience with adolescent/college-aged individuals, anxiety, depression, parent/child intervention, life transitions, trauma, family therapy, grief/loss/bereavement.
(980) 332-2878 x113 View (980) 332-2878 x113
Photo of Courtenay McFarlin, MDiv, MA, BS, Pastoral Counselor
Courtenay McFarlin
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, MA, BS
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Life is a journey and we are all just trying to find our way home. We tend to pick up a lot of "stuff" along the way that can get heavy and make the journey hard. Sometimes, we all just need to know that we can stop, unload our packs, and have the time and space to sort out the stuff that is weighing us down, allowing us to continue on with a lighter load. Welcome to Joyful Oak Counseling. My name is Courtenay McFarlin and it's an honor to walk with others as we take the time and space to sort through all that life has given us. It is my joy to guide others to restored hope, nurtured faith, and grounded love."
Life is a journey and we are all just trying to find our way home. We tend to pick up a lot of "stuff" along the way that can get heavy and make the journey hard. Sometimes, we all just need to know that we can stop, unload our packs, and have the time and space to sort out the stuff that is weighing us down, allowing us to continue on with a lighter load. Welcome to Joyful Oak Counseling. My name is Courtenay McFarlin and it's an honor to walk with others as we take the time and space to sort through all that life has given us. It is my joy to guide others to restored hope, nurtured faith, and grounded love."
(704) 610-3069 View (704) 610-3069
Photo of Christine Macellaro, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Christine Macellaro
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Do you sometimes wonder why you never feel good enough? Do you find yourself questioning, “why me”? Why you; because you are powerful and resilient! As a therapist, I help clients understand how the urge to please, be perfectionistic, and over-perform can hinder one’s ability to be their genuine self. As your therapist, I will empower you to prioritize authentic connections, develop your own identity, establish boundaries, and reclaim your sense of belonging by learning to put yourself first; without guilt. My focus in the counseling session is for you to reclaim your life and come back home to yourself; where you truly belong.
Do you sometimes wonder why you never feel good enough? Do you find yourself questioning, “why me”? Why you; because you are powerful and resilient! As a therapist, I help clients understand how the urge to please, be perfectionistic, and over-perform can hinder one’s ability to be their genuine self. As your therapist, I will empower you to prioritize authentic connections, develop your own identity, establish boundaries, and reclaim your sense of belonging by learning to put yourself first; without guilt. My focus in the counseling session is for you to reclaim your life and come back home to yourself; where you truly belong.
(980) 350-7568 View (980) 350-7568
Photo of Dr. Wanda P Briggs, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
Dr. Wanda P Briggs
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PhD, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
The life you had is gone. And you are alone facing an uncertain future. The storm of suffering has so consumed you, the struggles of everyday living bear no resemblance of who you are. The changes are present everywhere. There’s nowhere to put down this burden of loss and nowhere to escape this pain. There’s just you, alone and unsure how to move forward. Your mind desperately grasps at questions: Will I always feel this way? How long can I stand this? Will I survive?
The life you had is gone. And you are alone facing an uncertain future. The storm of suffering has so consumed you, the struggles of everyday living bear no resemblance of who you are. The changes are present everywhere. There’s nowhere to put down this burden of loss and nowhere to escape this pain. There’s just you, alone and unsure how to move forward. Your mind desperately grasps at questions: Will I always feel this way? How long can I stand this? Will I survive?
(980) 276-2795 View (980) 276-2795
Photo of Brelonda R Walker - Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, DBH, LCMHCS, BCIM, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28070  (Online Only)
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
The clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions, PLLC are qualified, credentialed, and licensed professionals whose primary mission is to provide quality therapeutic care and organizational training to the surrounding community. Their goal is to empower people; to enrich lives; to give you control of your outcomes; and to restore your body, mind and spirit back to their optimal states of functioning. The certified and licensed clinicians at Integrated Holistic Solutions have over 28 years of experience and are trained in equipping clients with the tools necessary to maximize their environment and enhance their well-being.
(704) 896-6044 x1 View (704) 896-6044 x1
Photo of Annie Day (Elizabeth Day), MA, LCMHCA, MBA
Annie Day (Elizabeth Day)
LCMHC Associate, MA, LCMHCA, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Are you feeling exhausted, defeated, or overwhelmed? Does your best feel like it's never enough? I’m glad you’re here. Our darkest or most hectic times are often when we feel the most isolated and unheard. Therapy can help you find the light you need, and help you reconnect to the world and yourself. Pause, and give yourself credit for taking a step toward bettering your mental health today. I believe that you already have the strength & resilience within you to heal and grow, sometimes we all just need some help. Above all else, I want you to know that it’s okay not to be okay & that it’s possible for things to get better.
Are you feeling exhausted, defeated, or overwhelmed? Does your best feel like it's never enough? I’m glad you’re here. Our darkest or most hectic times are often when we feel the most isolated and unheard. Therapy can help you find the light you need, and help you reconnect to the world and yourself. Pause, and give yourself credit for taking a step toward bettering your mental health today. I believe that you already have the strength & resilience within you to heal and grow, sometimes we all just need some help. Above all else, I want you to know that it’s okay not to be okay & that it’s possible for things to get better.
(704) 228-9172 View (704) 228-9172
Photo of Odelta Clontz, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Odelta Clontz
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
While starting therapy can seem daunting, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space in which we'll explore your concerns together. Therapy is a journey of rediscovering clarity, purpose, and joy. I have experience working with a culturally diverse population and provide individual counseling to adolescents and adults. My focus is on counseling clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, stressor related issues, anger management, interpersonal skills deficits, and cultural integration difficulties. As every client is unique, I tailor my therapeutic approach to match the client's needs, values, and goals.
While starting therapy can seem daunting, I offer a warm, nonjudgmental space in which we'll explore your concerns together. Therapy is a journey of rediscovering clarity, purpose, and joy. I have experience working with a culturally diverse population and provide individual counseling to adolescents and adults. My focus is on counseling clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, stressor related issues, anger management, interpersonal skills deficits, and cultural integration difficulties. As every client is unique, I tailor my therapeutic approach to match the client's needs, values, and goals.
(704) 343-6126 View (704) 343-6126
Photo of O'Neil Walker, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
O'Neil Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
My ideal client would be someone struggling with life based on what they were taught or the environment in which they were raised. Sometimes what we feel worked for us in one environment or situation will not work in the same environment or a new one based on time or the growth of others. I believe we all owe it to ourselves to make self-reflection a consistent habit and aim to grow as much as we can. My clients often want to feel comfortable in their own skin, communicate well with others and live a life full of success and peace. I focus on personal acceptance, healthy relationships (Family/romantic) and peace for my clients.
My ideal client would be someone struggling with life based on what they were taught or the environment in which they were raised. Sometimes what we feel worked for us in one environment or situation will not work in the same environment or a new one based on time or the growth of others. I believe we all owe it to ourselves to make self-reflection a consistent habit and aim to grow as much as we can. My clients often want to feel comfortable in their own skin, communicate well with others and live a life full of success and peace. I focus on personal acceptance, healthy relationships (Family/romantic) and peace for my clients.
(704) 237-6751 View (704) 237-6751
Photo of Howard Slutzky, PsyD, Psychologist
Howard Slutzky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078
Whatever it is that has prompted you to seek the support of a therapist at this time, I commend you for taking such an important first step. I see this as a sign of strength, and a commitment to address the challenges and obstacles you are currently facing. Having been in my own counseling at pivotal times throughout my life, I have a deep respect for the therapeutic process. It is only through vulnerability and authentic connection that we can truly cultivate the best versions of ourselves, and the counseling process provides a powerful vehicle for doing so. It would be my honor to assist you in this capacity.
Whatever it is that has prompted you to seek the support of a therapist at this time, I commend you for taking such an important first step. I see this as a sign of strength, and a commitment to address the challenges and obstacles you are currently facing. Having been in my own counseling at pivotal times throughout my life, I have a deep respect for the therapeutic process. It is only through vulnerability and authentic connection that we can truly cultivate the best versions of ourselves, and the counseling process provides a powerful vehicle for doing so. It would be my honor to assist you in this capacity.
(704) 728-0267 View (704) 728-0267
Photo of Walanda Johnson - The Healing Collab, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Healing Collab
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
Is it difficult to connect in relationships? Do you find yourself making the same unhealthy choices in your dating relationships? Is making and keeping meaningful friendships a challenge? Are your work relationships causing you stress? Proven studies show that relationships heal us both physically and mentally. They enrich our lives in ways we could never imagine. If you have been feeling lonely, tired of going with the flow yet feeling discouraged in securing healthy relationship with others, you have landed in the right space.
Is it difficult to connect in relationships? Do you find yourself making the same unhealthy choices in your dating relationships? Is making and keeping meaningful friendships a challenge? Are your work relationships causing you stress? Proven studies show that relationships heal us both physically and mentally. They enrich our lives in ways we could never imagine. If you have been feeling lonely, tired of going with the flow yet feeling discouraged in securing healthy relationship with others, you have landed in the right space.
(619) 762-4827 View (619) 762-4827
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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.