Emotionally Focused Therapists in King, NC

Photo of Nicole Powell, MEd, LCMHC
Nicole Powell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King, NC 27021
Because everyone has unique challenges and goals, I also utilize evidence-based techniques from other frameworks such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, emotionally focused therapy and parent child interaction therapy to best fit my clients' needs.
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
Because everyone has unique challenges and goals, I also utilize evidence-based techniques from other frameworks such as cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, emotionally focused therapy and parent child interaction therapy to best fit my clients' needs.
I believe that every person has the ability to grow, heal and change. As a counselor, I provide a space of nonjudgmental acceptance and authenticity which invites clients to show up exactly as they are and to be valued and supported in all aspects of their identity. I aim to partner with and empower my clients, utilizing the strengths and skills they already possess, to work toward their goals for healing and growth. My counseling orientation is grounded in a family systems approach, though I also draw significantly from attachment theory and person-centered counseling.
(336) 594-2301 View (336) 594-2301
Photo of April Milam - Hope Hcw - April Milam-Hope Holistic Counseling and Wellness, MS, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April Milam-Hope Holistic Counseling and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King, NC 27021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Helping the hurting is my focus, from the scrapes of life to the deep wounds. We all have challenges and can benefit from support, education, new skills, or other healing. A holistic approach allows for addressing the mind, body, and spirit when needed. I strive to provide a safe place to process emotions, solve problems, or seek growth. People are created for connection. Many problems come back to this core truth. I use these principles to examine blocks to this connection.
Helping the hurting is my focus, from the scrapes of life to the deep wounds. We all have challenges and can benefit from support, education, new skills, or other healing. A holistic approach allows for addressing the mind, body, and spirit when needed. I strive to provide a safe place to process emotions, solve problems, or seek growth. People are created for connection. Many problems come back to this core truth. I use these principles to examine blocks to this connection.
(336) 542-2299 View (336) 542-2299
Photo of Rachel Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
King, NC 27021
You didn't expect life to look this way. Are you paralyzed by anxiety? Overwhelmed with the state of the world and our country? Feeling disconnected from others? Feeling unseen and unheard? Are you struggling to meet the high expectations of yourself and the expectations of what the modern woman is? Have you found yourself thinking; these are supposed to be the happiest days of my life, why am I not happy? Am I a good Mom? Am I being too controlling? ​ Everyone else seems to be able to do it all. Why can't I? Am I making the "right" decisions with my children? Life does not have to stay this way.
You didn't expect life to look this way. Are you paralyzed by anxiety? Overwhelmed with the state of the world and our country? Feeling disconnected from others? Feeling unseen and unheard? Are you struggling to meet the high expectations of yourself and the expectations of what the modern woman is? Have you found yourself thinking; these are supposed to be the happiest days of my life, why am I not happy? Am I a good Mom? Am I being too controlling? ​ Everyone else seems to be able to do it all. Why can't I? Am I making the "right" decisions with my children? Life does not have to stay this way.
(336) 360-5713 View (336) 360-5713
Photo of Melissa Doerfer-Grace, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT
Melissa Doerfer-Grace
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
King, NC 27021
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
(336) 592-7011 View (336) 592-7011
Photo of Michele Hairston - Faith First Christian Counseling, MAMF, LCMHC
Michele Hairston - Faith First Christian Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMF, LCMHC
Verified Verified
King, NC 27021
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
(336) 663-0423 View (336) 663-0423
Photo of Olivia Bunce, MA, LMFTA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Olivia Bunce
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
King, NC 27021
Currently Accepting Couples and Families. Thank you for taking the first step towards healing. As a marriage and family therapist, I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I utilize systemic, evidence-based theories and practices to meet my client where they are and take them where they want to go. This simply means I view people within the context of their relationships and utilize interventions that have proven to be effective.
Currently Accepting Couples and Families. Thank you for taking the first step towards healing. As a marriage and family therapist, I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I utilize systemic, evidence-based theories and practices to meet my client where they are and take them where they want to go. This simply means I view people within the context of their relationships and utilize interventions that have proven to be effective.
(336) 891-4028 View (336) 891-4028
Photo of Caren M Jackson, MS/EdS, LCMHC
Caren M Jackson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS/EdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
King, NC 27021
Offering more in-person availability in Winston-Salem, in November 2023, for clients who prefer to meet in an office setting! Telehealth appointments also immediately available. I know that having a good fit between a client and their counselor is the most important aspect in treating and improving mental wellbeing. I look forward to hearing from you. I come from a community mental health setting and have worked with a wide range of clinical conditions. My approach to counseling includes a family systems and community framework, with a focus on understanding and improving one's relationship to self and others.
Offering more in-person availability in Winston-Salem, in November 2023, for clients who prefer to meet in an office setting! Telehealth appointments also immediately available. I know that having a good fit between a client and their counselor is the most important aspect in treating and improving mental wellbeing. I look forward to hearing from you. I come from a community mental health setting and have worked with a wide range of clinical conditions. My approach to counseling includes a family systems and community framework, with a focus on understanding and improving one's relationship to self and others.
(336) 791-8284 View (336) 791-8284
Photo of Melody Slawter, LCMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Melody Slawter
Counselor, LCMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King, NC 27021
Not accepting new clients
Our past experiences can create patterns of thinking, beliefs, and reactions that negatively affect our lives and relationships and make us feel stuck in a cycle we feel helpless to escape. My approach to therapy moves through a framework of identifying past and present factors that contribute to those patterns, strengthening healthy coping strategies, and working through those factors to develop a positive sense of self and an expansive view of future possibilities. My clinical focus is providing individual counseling for adults 18+ who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms.
Our past experiences can create patterns of thinking, beliefs, and reactions that negatively affect our lives and relationships and make us feel stuck in a cycle we feel helpless to escape. My approach to therapy moves through a framework of identifying past and present factors that contribute to those patterns, strengthening healthy coping strategies, and working through those factors to develop a positive sense of self and an expansive view of future possibilities. My clinical focus is providing individual counseling for adults 18+ who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma symptoms.
(336) 560-9569 View (336) 560-9569

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Levi Galford - Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy NE Raleigh, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy NE Raleigh
Counselor
Verified Verified
Bethania, NC 27010
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(984) 689-9710 View (984) 689-9710
Photo of Jenifer K Shadrick, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenifer K Shadrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Tobaccoville, NC 27050  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new telehealth clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with nearly a decade of professional experience working in the mental health counseling field. My experience includes working with both individuals and families of all ages. Many individuals find themselves feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and unbalanced due to struggles with personal challenges, relationships, and daily life demands. Working together, clients will discover how past/current negative habits and thought patterns impact choices, interactions with others, and possible prevention of desired future goal successes.
Currently accepting new telehealth clients. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with nearly a decade of professional experience working in the mental health counseling field. My experience includes working with both individuals and families of all ages. Many individuals find themselves feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and unbalanced due to struggles with personal challenges, relationships, and daily life demands. Working together, clients will discover how past/current negative habits and thought patterns impact choices, interactions with others, and possible prevention of desired future goal successes.
(336) 344-9414 View (336) 344-9414
Jenifer Shadrick
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Pfafftown, NC 27040  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Psychology Christian Counseling with a minor in Special Education in 2013 from Liberty University, and then went on to graduate with a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling in 2015. I work with individuals struggling with communication, impulse control, relationships, social skills, self-esteem, anxiety, addictions, and adjustment issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Psychology Christian Counseling with a minor in Special Education in 2013 from Liberty University, and then went on to graduate with a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling in 2015. I work with individuals struggling with communication, impulse control, relationships, social skills, self-esteem, anxiety, addictions, and adjustment issues.
(336) 276-2753 View (336) 276-2753

Online Therapists

Photo of Aubry N Koehler, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aubry N Koehler
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Clemmons, NC 27012
I am a PhD licensed marriage and family therapist with 12 years of experience. I use a systemic approach in understanding relationship challenges. This means, rather than looking at each individual as an island, I account for how individual, family, and cultural factors affect one another. I believe that when we understand these interactions we can better identify meaningful and sustainable solutions to the problems at hand.
I am a PhD licensed marriage and family therapist with 12 years of experience. I use a systemic approach in understanding relationship challenges. This means, rather than looking at each individual as an island, I account for how individual, family, and cultural factors affect one another. I believe that when we understand these interactions we can better identify meaningful and sustainable solutions to the problems at hand.
(336) 967-1758 View (336) 967-1758
Photo of Paiga Brown, LCSW-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Paiga Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612  (Online Only)
Everything begins with your mindset. First, I would like to congratulate you on making the right decision to take action over your life. My name is Paiga Brown, and I am here to support you as you take this journey! I have experience supporting individuals who face the challenges of dealing with anxiety and mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship issues. I specialize in working with both adults and adolescents through Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Emotionally Focused Expressive Arts Mindfulness-Based (MBCT and Expressive Therapy.
Everything begins with your mindset. First, I would like to congratulate you on making the right decision to take action over your life. My name is Paiga Brown, and I am here to support you as you take this journey! I have experience supporting individuals who face the challenges of dealing with anxiety and mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship issues. I specialize in working with both adults and adolescents through Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Emotionally Focused Expressive Arts Mindfulness-Based (MBCT and Expressive Therapy.
(336) 933-6531 View (336) 933-6531
Photo of Jessie Deussing, MACC, LCMHC, Counselor
Jessie Deussing
Counselor, MACC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27405
For more information about EFT, please visit www.
Jessie is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#12789) who completed her graduate education at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, earning an M.A. in Christian Counseling. She is a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist ( EFT). She specializes in counseling couples and individuals (18+) surrounding marital distress, attachment injuries, past harm (abuse, neglect, trauma, self-harm), pre-marital counseling, anxiety, and depression.
For more information about EFT, please visit www.
Jessie is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#12789) who completed her graduate education at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, earning an M.A. in Christian Counseling. She is a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist ( EFT). She specializes in counseling couples and individuals (18+) surrounding marital distress, attachment injuries, past harm (abuse, neglect, trauma, self-harm), pre-marital counseling, anxiety, and depression.
(336) 864-9727 View (336) 864-9727
Photo of Lyle N. F. Williams, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lyle N. F. Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204  (Online Only)
I specialize in Gestalt Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT),and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I help clients heal from emotional and relationship concerns. I believe in the values of happiness, health, and purpose. If you or someone you care about is struggling with relationship conflict, depression, stress / anxiety, or anger; and you are ready for change to happen, I may be the right therapist for you.
I specialize in Gestalt Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT),and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I help clients heal from emotional and relationship concerns. I believe in the values of happiness, health, and purpose. If you or someone you care about is struggling with relationship conflict, depression, stress / anxiety, or anger; and you are ready for change to happen, I may be the right therapist for you.
(704) 459-8474 View (704) 459-8474
Photo of Anne Hancock, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
Professional Affiliations Include: Life Member ICEEFT (International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Certified EFT ( Emotionally Focused Therapy) Couples Therapist and Supervisor, AAMFT Approved Supervisor, Former Board Member and Clinical Member (NCAMFT,) Clinical Member (CAMFT), Clinical Member (AAMFT).
At Wellness, we specialize in relationship issues and couples counseling. If you find it difficult to communicate with your partner or you are frustrated when s/he walks away, your relationship is likely in a negative cycle. All our therapists have experienced advanced training in working with couples and we would be happy to discuss what we do and how we can help. Week-to-week services are available in-office or online. 1-Day and 2 1/2-Day Intensives and Retreats are available in-office only.
Professional Affiliations Include: Life Member ICEEFT (International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Certified EFT ( Emotionally Focused Therapy) Couples Therapist and Supervisor, AAMFT Approved Supervisor, Former Board Member and Clinical Member (NCAMFT,) Clinical Member (CAMFT), Clinical Member (AAMFT).
At Wellness, we specialize in relationship issues and couples counseling. If you find it difficult to communicate with your partner or you are frustrated when s/he walks away, your relationship is likely in a negative cycle. All our therapists have experienced advanced training in working with couples and we would be happy to discuss what we do and how we can help. Week-to-week services are available in-office or online. 1-Day and 2 1/2-Day Intensives and Retreats are available in-office only.
(704) 319-5593 View (704) 319-5593
Photo of Christine Wisdom, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Wisdom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
I employ an Integrative approach to counseling, blending techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt, Internal Family Systems theory and Psycho-dynamic theory, EMDR, Gottman Therapy and EFT.
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
I employ an Integrative approach to counseling, blending techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt, Internal Family Systems theory and Psycho-dynamic theory, EMDR, Gottman Therapy and EFT.
I work with individuals and couples by listening to their stories, helping them to find meaning out of life's experiences and working together to rewrite the stories of their lives. I journey with individuals to heal past wounds and move towards wholeness. I have worked with women in life transitions to find a greater sense of self and with men with past struggles with addiction to discover a new direction for their lives. I work with men, women and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression and family conflict to work on setting boundaries with others and caring for the self.
(704) 276-6109 View (704) 276-6109
Photo of Jared Polatis, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jared Polatis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apex, NC 27502
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) & Trauma-Informed Therapy, you will work together to address the root of your concerns.
Jared is now welcoming new clients! Originally from Idaho, Jared loves the outdoors, skiing, & potatoes almost as much as helping his clients. Jared’s favorite part of being a therapist is helping people find answers when they are feeling lost or hopeless. Managing life with or without mental health issues is hard enough & too many people feel alone in their struggles. As a systemic therapist, he seeks to understand all the aspects of your life and how they impact your situation. Jared is attentive to ways your unique identity (gender, age, race, etc.) may shape your world.
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT) & Trauma-Informed Therapy, you will work together to address the root of your concerns.
Jared is now welcoming new clients! Originally from Idaho, Jared loves the outdoors, skiing, & potatoes almost as much as helping his clients. Jared’s favorite part of being a therapist is helping people find answers when they are feeling lost or hopeless. Managing life with or without mental health issues is hard enough & too many people feel alone in their struggles. As a systemic therapist, he seeks to understand all the aspects of your life and how they impact your situation. Jared is attentive to ways your unique identity (gender, age, race, etc.) may shape your world.
(984) 273-2287 View (984) 273-2287
Photo of Kalyn Hamilton, MS/EdS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Kalyn Hamilton
Counselor, MS/EdS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27407
Waitlist for new clients
I am also pursuing more couples/relational work ( EFT).
Please allow me to commend you for seeking out therapy: I am very glad that you are recognizing a personal need to find support in a mental health professional. Whether or not you decide that I am a good therapeutic fit for you and your needs, I believe wholeheartedly that every person can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. It can be supremely beneficial to have a caring but impartial perspective in your life to help you heal, grow, and fulfill your own personal needs/goals.
I am also pursuing more couples/relational work ( EFT).
Please allow me to commend you for seeking out therapy: I am very glad that you are recognizing a personal need to find support in a mental health professional. Whether or not you decide that I am a good therapeutic fit for you and your needs, I believe wholeheartedly that every person can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. It can be supremely beneficial to have a caring but impartial perspective in your life to help you heal, grow, and fulfill your own personal needs/goals.
(336) 891-9762 View (336) 891-9762
Photo of Kathleen Sheffield, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Sheffield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
This is a collaborative process where feedback is welcomed and reaching your mental health goals is our focus using CBT, EFT, Imago Relationship Theory & DBT.
Offering Relationship Intensives & Pre-Marital Retreats & Sessions! Whether you're navigating a life transition or looking for a change in some area of your life, counseling can provide long term relief and insight.You may notice mental fatigue/fog, intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, difficulty communicating needs, conflict in relationships, chronic pain, difficulty sleeping, or just feel stuck. Learning about the mind-body connection, learn how life events impact our wellbeing, exploring practical strategies for coping, communicating, and connecting. Regain balance and connection with self and others.
This is a collaborative process where feedback is welcomed and reaching your mental health goals is our focus using CBT, EFT, Imago Relationship Theory & DBT.
Offering Relationship Intensives & Pre-Marital Retreats & Sessions! Whether you're navigating a life transition or looking for a change in some area of your life, counseling can provide long term relief and insight.You may notice mental fatigue/fog, intrusive thoughts, self-doubt, difficulty communicating needs, conflict in relationships, chronic pain, difficulty sleeping, or just feel stuck. Learning about the mind-body connection, learn how life events impact our wellbeing, exploring practical strategies for coping, communicating, and connecting. Regain balance and connection with self and others.
(919) 646-6874 View (919) 646-6874

See more therapy options for King

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.