Emotionally Focused Therapists in Troutman, NC
![Photo of Keith Cheney, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d983c22-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Don't over-think therapy. It's just not that complicated. When things get difficult, it's often hard to ask for help. We all face challenges, and we often overcome them on our own. Sometimes it takes much longer than we'd like, and that's when therapy comes into play. Why spend months or years taking on a situation or challenge by yourself, when you could work through it in far less time? Insanity is doing the same things, over and over, and expecting different results. Try something new, and break those old patterns.
Don't over-think therapy. It's just not that complicated. When things get difficult, it's often hard to ask for help. We all face challenges, and we often overcome them on our own. Sometimes it takes much longer than we'd like, and that's when therapy comes into play. Why spend months or years taking on a situation or challenge by yourself, when you could work through it in far less time? Insanity is doing the same things, over and over, and expecting different results. Try something new, and break those old patterns.
![Photo of Laura Bethany Bruce, MA, LCMHCA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13ed570f-59c2-471b-b18d-42e61b50ae6e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Bethany Bruce
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Troutman, NC 28166 (Online Only)
Are you finding yourself in the “vicious cycle” of anxiety or depression? Do you feel like some days you are functioning on auto pilot? This can be incredibly draining. I have found that sometimes our experiences, whether good or bad, can shape the way our thought patterns affect our moods and decisions and too often these thought patterns tangle themselves in an ever-weaving web. I primarily practice from a cognitive processing perspective, which is intended to help you untangle that web and begin to remove yourself from the vicious cycle of maladaptive, anxiety and depression-invoking thoughts.
Are you finding yourself in the “vicious cycle” of anxiety or depression? Do you feel like some days you are functioning on auto pilot? This can be incredibly draining. I have found that sometimes our experiences, whether good or bad, can shape the way our thought patterns affect our moods and decisions and too often these thought patterns tangle themselves in an ever-weaving web. I primarily practice from a cognitive processing perspective, which is intended to help you untangle that web and begin to remove yourself from the vicious cycle of maladaptive, anxiety and depression-invoking thoughts.
![Photo of Megan LeAnn Byerly, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84236860-e795-442b-a053-21684de7bda3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan LeAnn Byerly
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troutman, NC 28166
I think it is safe to assume that if you have found yourself here on my page, you are looking for the right counselor to pursue mental health counseling services with whether it be for yourself, family member, friend, or another loved one. Well, hopefully I will be that perfect fit counselor you are looking for! My name is Megan Byerly, LCMHC, and I am an undergraduate from Western Carolina, double majoring in Psychology and Recreational Therapy. I then obtained my graduate degree from Lenoir-Rhyne University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have been working in the field for over 5 years, in various settings.
I think it is safe to assume that if you have found yourself here on my page, you are looking for the right counselor to pursue mental health counseling services with whether it be for yourself, family member, friend, or another loved one. Well, hopefully I will be that perfect fit counselor you are looking for! My name is Megan Byerly, LCMHC, and I am an undergraduate from Western Carolina, double majoring in Psychology and Recreational Therapy. I then obtained my graduate degree from Lenoir-Rhyne University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have been working in the field for over 5 years, in various settings.
![Photo of Rhonda Flowers-Corpening Ph.d., PhD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/008565dc-bd94-4cd2-acda-4c9b8a3fe1f2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rhonda Flowers-Corpening Ph.d.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Troutman, NC 28166 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I believe in the three (3) C’s of life: CHOICE, CHANCE, AND CHANGE! I believe that you must make the CHOICE to take the CHANCE that will cause your life to CHANGE! If needed, let me help you embrace the positive and creative possibilities of life. I am passionate, yet direct in my therapeutic approach to empowering people to believe that a journey of a thousand miles begins with taking the first step.
I believe in the three (3) C’s of life: CHOICE, CHANCE, AND CHANGE! I believe that you must make the CHOICE to take the CHANCE that will cause your life to CHANGE! If needed, let me help you embrace the positive and creative possibilities of life. I am passionate, yet direct in my therapeutic approach to empowering people to believe that a journey of a thousand miles begins with taking the first step.
![Photo of Madison Haskell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fa93228-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madison Haskell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Troutman, NC 28166 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Is it time to see yourself in a different light? Do you want to finally grasp the relief you’ve long been searching for or understand yourself better to be the person you have long wanted to be? If so, I invite you to take a chance and jump into a place where you can not only heal, but learn to thrive. I thoroughly enjoy working with adolescents and beyond, as well as couples and families who may need a helping hand in finding the balance they crave. Together, let’s tackle the depths of depression, anxiety and social anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, difficulties in understanding and expressing emotions, and more.
Is it time to see yourself in a different light? Do you want to finally grasp the relief you’ve long been searching for or understand yourself better to be the person you have long wanted to be? If so, I invite you to take a chance and jump into a place where you can not only heal, but learn to thrive. I thoroughly enjoy working with adolescents and beyond, as well as couples and families who may need a helping hand in finding the balance they crave. Together, let’s tackle the depths of depression, anxiety and social anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, difficulties in understanding and expressing emotions, and more.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Christine Wisdom, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f713be38-9410-4a13-9a07-b63a433a4040/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Wisdom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
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.
![Photo of Karen McCabe Barry, MFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52d50277-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Abbegail Luhrs, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f55eafcc-7b40-47be-b9cc-54e97014e67d/2/320x400.jpeg)
When working with clients I utilize multiple theoretical orientations such as CBT and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
You're feeling overwhelmed and that you've tried everything to find happiness in your life again. You are unhappy, anxious, exhausted, sad and unsure what to do next. You no longer feel like yourself and you're having issues in relationships. I understand and want to help you find peace and identify the issues that have caused this. I offer a warm and supportive environment that promotes healing. I understand that the people in our lives can cause us pain and hurt. I invite you to begin the journey of growth and healing with me.
When working with clients I utilize multiple theoretical orientations such as CBT and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
You're feeling overwhelmed and that you've tried everything to find happiness in your life again. You are unhappy, anxious, exhausted, sad and unsure what to do next. You no longer feel like yourself and you're having issues in relationships. I understand and want to help you find peace and identify the issues that have caused this. I offer a warm and supportive environment that promotes healing. I understand that the people in our lives can cause us pain and hurt. I invite you to begin the journey of growth and healing with me.
![Photo of Kimberly Coons, MA, LMFT, CSAT-C, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40d29218-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly Coons
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
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.
![Photo of Sherri Robbins, MA, LCMHCS, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dd53aa7-af6b-41e5-915b-1afc562226a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sherri Robbins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
My main treatment approaches are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (a form of Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Gottman Marriage Method, and EMDR therapy.
I am licensed in Maryland and North Carolina: offering virtual sessions for those in Maryland and in-person and virtual in North Carolina. I see families, couples, and individuals from teens to adults, from all backgrounds and beliefs, who are dealing with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, family and relationship issues, and identity struggles. www.soundmindlkn.com
My main treatment approaches are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (a form of Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Gottman Marriage Method, and EMDR therapy.
I am licensed in Maryland and North Carolina: offering virtual sessions for those in Maryland and in-person and virtual in North Carolina. I see families, couples, and individuals from teens to adults, from all backgrounds and beliefs, who are dealing with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, family and relationship issues, and identity struggles. www.soundmindlkn.com
![Photo of Karen Rogich, LCMHCA, MAC, MEd](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec440296-ec4f-4db9-b0c1-ce5abe006d3d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Rogich
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MAC, MEd
Verified Verified
Mooresville, NC 28115
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.
![Photo of Travis M Bradey, MA, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48809cfc-a30d-40b8-8c75-beaaa8dc2a14/1/320x400.jpeg)
Travis M Bradey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
Anxiety, Relationships, neurodivergence or just looking for answers?…Since 2012, my passion has been therapy/counseling, second only to being a father to my amazing kids. I have amassed extensive experiences and training along that way. As a result, I can match each client with tools and philosophy that get them closer to where they are trying to go. My approach to all things centers on finding solutions in life, and my sessions are no different. From day one, I seek solutions while being present with those who allow me to be a part of their journey.
Anxiety, Relationships, neurodivergence or just looking for answers?…Since 2012, my passion has been therapy/counseling, second only to being a father to my amazing kids. I have amassed extensive experiences and training along that way. As a result, I can match each client with tools and philosophy that get them closer to where they are trying to go. My approach to all things centers on finding solutions in life, and my sessions are no different. From day one, I seek solutions while being present with those who allow me to be a part of their journey.
![Photo of Ann Bennett, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b2e93712-003a-41e6-82c3-8d7157c49ff4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are the communication and connection in your marriage or relationship less than ideal or missing altogether? Or maybe you have more conflict than friendship and you're just feeling stuck. Perhaps you struggle with feeling anxious or overwhelmed and you are ready for a change. I offer a free consultation to new clients to discuss how I can help you achieve your goals, even if you don't know exactly what those goals are yet. In addition to traditional sessions, I now offer intensives for couples looking to jump-start their healing. For premarital counseling, this is a fun, productive way to start your journey with a strong foundation.
Are the communication and connection in your marriage or relationship less than ideal or missing altogether? Or maybe you have more conflict than friendship and you're just feeling stuck. Perhaps you struggle with feeling anxious or overwhelmed and you are ready for a change. I offer a free consultation to new clients to discuss how I can help you achieve your goals, even if you don't know exactly what those goals are yet. In addition to traditional sessions, I now offer intensives for couples looking to jump-start their healing. For premarital counseling, this is a fun, productive way to start your journey with a strong foundation.
![Photo of Luis F. Puertas, LCMHC, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b427091-3ab9-48d4-be77-605a5182c190/2/320x400.jpeg)
Luis F. Puertas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
My ideal client is someone who is open to self-reflection and personal growth, seeking a collaborative therapeutic journey. They value introspection, are committed to making positive changes in their life, and are motivated to explore and address various aspects of their mental and emotional well-being. As a therapist, my ideal client would be individuals, couples, or families seeking support for ADHD management, relational dynamics, or men's mental health challenges. They would value evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
My ideal client is someone who is open to self-reflection and personal growth, seeking a collaborative therapeutic journey. They value introspection, are committed to making positive changes in their life, and are motivated to explore and address various aspects of their mental and emotional well-being. As a therapist, my ideal client would be individuals, couples, or families seeking support for ADHD management, relational dynamics, or men's mental health challenges. They would value evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
![Photo of Laura Ketchie, MA, LPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cfeea9a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Ketchie
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28115
Life can be difficult, but people are resilient. My counseling approach towards each individual is strength-based. I believe that everyone has positive qualities and strengths. Sometimes, it just may be hard for someone to recognize when they are going through a hard time. My job is to come alongside my clients in a safe environment where my clients can share their feelings without being judged. I will help to point out any faulty thinking or behavioral patterns that may be causing difficulties in life. I mainly work with women struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma histories.
Life can be difficult, but people are resilient. My counseling approach towards each individual is strength-based. I believe that everyone has positive qualities and strengths. Sometimes, it just may be hard for someone to recognize when they are going through a hard time. My job is to come alongside my clients in a safe environment where my clients can share their feelings without being judged. I will help to point out any faulty thinking or behavioral patterns that may be causing difficulties in life. I mainly work with women struggling with depression, anxiety and trauma histories.
![Photo of Emily Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e90c823e-7f01-4620-abc4-ff198e3fc77a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
I work with individuals ages 10 and up, Families, Mood Disorders, Behavior Disorders, Life Transitions, Trauma, and Grief. Mental health can be confusing for children and helping them understanding what they are feeling and experiencing is something that I am passionate about. I believe that building a relationship with the whole family is important in helping children overcomer challenges and reach their goals in all aspects of life.
I work with individuals ages 10 and up, Families, Mood Disorders, Behavior Disorders, Life Transitions, Trauma, and Grief. Mental health can be confusing for children and helping them understanding what they are feeling and experiencing is something that I am passionate about. I believe that building a relationship with the whole family is important in helping children overcomer challenges and reach their goals in all aspects of life.
![Photo of Delia Vicidomini, MA, LCMHCA, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/883b96e8-6c0f-460a-b743-77aa2ff57367/1/320x400.jpeg)
Delia Vicidomini
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
Life can come at you in different directions, in a variety of ways, in which in turn can have one feel overwhelmed, isolated, and anxious. I am here to help you and your loved ones to navigate these life obstacles and challenges to promote a better quality of life. When working with me, I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you in order to reflect, process, and heal through the challenges together. I am here to provide insight, challenge, and guide you through your goals to the life you deserve.
Life can come at you in different directions, in a variety of ways, in which in turn can have one feel overwhelmed, isolated, and anxious. I am here to help you and your loved ones to navigate these life obstacles and challenges to promote a better quality of life. When working with me, I will provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you in order to reflect, process, and heal through the challenges together. I am here to provide insight, challenge, and guide you through your goals to the life you deserve.
![Photo of Michael Gebelein, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb2d25e6-e5d5-4c8f-b3f7-942d4aae0325/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You are seeking balance and calm in your life so that you can be the person that you have always wanted to be. You have tried other ways of coping, but you have now taken the courageous step of finding meaningful and intentional ways of achieving those goals. I believe in you, and I’m here to help you.
Life can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You are seeking balance and calm in your life so that you can be the person that you have always wanted to be. You have tried other ways of coping, but you have now taken the courageous step of finding meaningful and intentional ways of achieving those goals. I believe in you, and I’m here to help you.
![Photo of Kimberly O Owen - Sage Healing and Wellness.com, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92a382e7-ba44-4682-9e9e-e849b3953194/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sage Healing and Wellness.com
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
I am in the business of healing, not learning the latest coping skills that "pop psychology" uses as bandages. I am a customer service driven clinician who puts my clients first. Your experience in therapy will be a safe place for your uniqueness without feeling odd or misunderstood. Spiritual formation has been apart of my individual growth therefore I weave it into my therapy in addition to researched based mod
I am in the business of healing, not learning the latest coping skills that "pop psychology" uses as bandages. I am a customer service driven clinician who puts my clients first. Your experience in therapy will be a safe place for your uniqueness without feeling odd or misunderstood. Spiritual formation has been apart of my individual growth therefore I weave it into my therapy in addition to researched based mod
![Photo of Sara Yang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05ce43bb-1fea-4e76-bc72-a226ba755fdc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I am originally from Los Angeles, raised in Charlotte, NC, and proud to be Korean-American. As a Licensed Clinical Social worker and also an ally in the LGBTQIA+ community, I have experience in school-based therapy with children and psychotherapy with young adults. My passion lies in fostering healthy lifestyles and guiding clients through challenges like the journey of identity, cultural clashes, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, behavioral concerns, and transitions.
Hi there! I am originally from Los Angeles, raised in Charlotte, NC, and proud to be Korean-American. As a Licensed Clinical Social worker and also an ally in the LGBTQIA+ community, I have experience in school-based therapy with children and psychotherapy with young adults. My passion lies in fostering healthy lifestyles and guiding clients through challenges like the journey of identity, cultural clashes, anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, behavioral concerns, and transitions.
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Nearby Emotionally Focused Therapists Searches for Troutman
- Conover
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- Davidson
- Denver
- Hickory
- Huntersville
- Kannapolis
- Lincolnton
- Mooresville
- Salisbury
- Sherrills Ford
- Statesville
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.