Emotionally Focused Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Leslie Shasha, PhD, Psychologist
Leslie Shasha
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am an advanced emotionally focused therapist ( EFT) for couples.
I keep an open mind, I am flexible and I am a good listener. I like to take all theories into account and apply them to one particular person. I do not believe in formulas, each individual is unique and deserves a unique understanding. I also like to have a plan of action that I discuss with my client in the beginning of treatment. Clients have told me that they have gained better understanding of their dynamics and developed stronger sense of self after treatment.
I am an advanced emotionally focused therapist ( EFT) for couples.
I keep an open mind, I am flexible and I am a good listener. I like to take all theories into account and apply them to one particular person. I do not believe in formulas, each individual is unique and deserves a unique understanding. I also like to have a plan of action that I discuss with my client in the beginning of treatment. Clients have told me that they have gained better understanding of their dynamics and developed stronger sense of self after treatment.
(718) 858-9712 View (718) 858-9712
Photo of Anne Stern, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Working for two decades with individuals and couples has continually shown me the value of therapy, and I have abundant respect for the courage it takes to seek help. I integrate relational, mindfulness, EFT, IFS and other talk therapy perspectives and, when it feels right for my clients, EMDR and Somatic Experiencing. These latter two modalities address trauma as well as many other areas of life. A certified EMDR consultant, I facilitate trainings and provide individual/group supervision for fellow therapists working with EMDR.
Working for two decades with individuals and couples has continually shown me the value of therapy, and I have abundant respect for the courage it takes to seek help. I integrate relational, mindfulness, EFT, IFS and other talk therapy perspectives and, when it feels right for my clients, EMDR and Somatic Experiencing. These latter two modalities address trauma as well as many other areas of life. A certified EMDR consultant, I facilitate trainings and provide individual/group supervision for fellow therapists working with EMDR.
(917) 563-2373 View (917) 563-2373
Photo of Erin Cadet, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Cadet
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Therapy with me is about reclaiming, unearthing, dismantling and essentially taking a sledgehammer to all the things in life that are no longer serving you or your relationships. I do relational work to help individuals, couples and other relational structures to figure out how to process, regulate, and articulate their feelings, improve communication and work through sexual challenges. I believe in an eclectic approach to therapy. I incorporate a variety of modalities from Narrative Therapy, CBT, EFT and Solution Focused, to name a few. Regardless of the modality I operate from a social justice, anti-racist, intersectional lens.
Therapy with me is about reclaiming, unearthing, dismantling and essentially taking a sledgehammer to all the things in life that are no longer serving you or your relationships. I do relational work to help individuals, couples and other relational structures to figure out how to process, regulate, and articulate their feelings, improve communication and work through sexual challenges. I believe in an eclectic approach to therapy. I incorporate a variety of modalities from Narrative Therapy, CBT, EFT and Solution Focused, to name a few. Regardless of the modality I operate from a social justice, anti-racist, intersectional lens.
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Photo of Dr. Regina Bordieri, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Regina Bordieri
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience helping couples & families cope with life transitions & heal past relationship injuries. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples escape negative cycles, reduce conflict & reconnect - research consistently shows 90% report significant improvements. I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, and relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis. I offer flexible scheduling options including Sat & Sun every weekend & online schedule to self-book appointments.
I have extensive experience helping couples & families cope with life transitions & heal past relationship injuries. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to help couples escape negative cycles, reduce conflict & reconnect - research consistently shows 90% report significant improvements. I also offer short-term, skills-based relationship coaching, premarital counseling, and relationship enhancement programs, Discernment Counseling for couples considering divorce, & therapy for couples coping with a bipolar diagnosis. I offer flexible scheduling options including Sat & Sun every weekend & online schedule to self-book appointments.
(619) 332-0627 View (619) 332-0627
Photo of Chelsea Thornton, LMSW
Chelsea Thornton
Licensed Master Social Work, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
I frequently utilize CBT, EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), ARA (the Ackerman Relational Approach), and mindfulness techniques as we learn and embrace the many overlapping identities that exist within you.
Whatever you may be feeling in this moment, remember that you are a multifaceted and complex individual, changing with every new experience and emotion each day. Navigating life hasn’t been an easy task, and perhaps, the decision to search for a therapist has convinced you that you may even be failing at it. In this therapeutic space, you are never a failure. I’m devoted to providing you the environment, empathy, and support you need to better understand the circumstances that may be preventing you from living a more positive, cohesive life. I consider my style to be relational, holistic, and client-centered.
I frequently utilize CBT, EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), ARA (the Ackerman Relational Approach), and mindfulness techniques as we learn and embrace the many overlapping identities that exist within you.
Whatever you may be feeling in this moment, remember that you are a multifaceted and complex individual, changing with every new experience and emotion each day. Navigating life hasn’t been an easy task, and perhaps, the decision to search for a therapist has convinced you that you may even be failing at it. In this therapeutic space, you are never a failure. I’m devoted to providing you the environment, empathy, and support you need to better understand the circumstances that may be preventing you from living a more positive, cohesive life. I consider my style to be relational, holistic, and client-centered.
(332) 378-1838 View (332) 378-1838
Photo of Alisha Bennett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisha Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Hello! I’m Alisha - a transracial, transnational adoptee from South Korea, educator and mother. As a dedicated therapist, I employ a multidisciplinary psychodynamic approach enriched by elements from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy models. My mission is to guide you on a transformative journey toward greater happiness, improved well-being, and enhanced connections in your life.
Hello! I’m Alisha - a transracial, transnational adoptee from South Korea, educator and mother. As a dedicated therapist, I employ a multidisciplinary psychodynamic approach enriched by elements from Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy models. My mission is to guide you on a transformative journey toward greater happiness, improved well-being, and enhanced connections in your life.
(929) 298-4684 View (929) 298-4684
Photo of Leanne Sinsky, LMSW, LSW
Leanne Sinsky
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Are you having trouble in your relationship? Whether you're dealing with fighting and disconnection or simply seeking to strengthen your relationship, I'm here to offer the support you need. I practice with an attuned approach, tailored to your specific needs. As an Emotionally Focused (EFT) Therapist, I assist couples in breaking free from destructive cycles. I aid couples in enhancing communication, connection, and trust. I am trained in sex therapy and can help individuals and couples address matters related to sex and intimacy as well.
Are you having trouble in your relationship? Whether you're dealing with fighting and disconnection or simply seeking to strengthen your relationship, I'm here to offer the support you need. I practice with an attuned approach, tailored to your specific needs. As an Emotionally Focused (EFT) Therapist, I assist couples in breaking free from destructive cycles. I aid couples in enhancing communication, connection, and trust. I am trained in sex therapy and can help individuals and couples address matters related to sex and intimacy as well.
(347) 297-5540 View (347) 297-5540
Photo of Erica Oberhand, PsyD, Psychologist
Erica Oberhand
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215  (Online Only)
CBT, IFT, relational psychodynamic, EFT, Gottman Method, etc) to your unique needs.
Whether you're exploring your identity, coping with ADHD or anxiety, regaining your footing after a traumatic event, or addressing other challenges, therapy can help. In a safe, affirming environment, I'll help you and your loved one(s) feel more secure, confident, and connected.
CBT, IFT, relational psychodynamic, EFT, Gottman Method, etc) to your unique needs.
Whether you're exploring your identity, coping with ADHD or anxiety, regaining your footing after a traumatic event, or addressing other challenges, therapy can help. In a safe, affirming environment, I'll help you and your loved one(s) feel more secure, confident, and connected.
(740) 570-1318 View (740) 570-1318
Photo of Paula K Solomon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula K Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11218  (Online Only)
Sue Johnson, creator of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Dr.
I am a seasoned therapist, who has been in practice for over 25 years. I have the ability to to connect with a wide range of people, from adolescents to older adults, individuals and couples, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. I will help you manage anxiety, and depression, and view issues as problems to be solved. Through engagement and support, I have helped people with divorce/separation, marital distress and infidelity, and the challenges of parenting children and adolescents. I also work with people in 12-step groups with family-of-origin issues, like co-dependency.
Sue Johnson, creator of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Dr.
I am a seasoned therapist, who has been in practice for over 25 years. I have the ability to to connect with a wide range of people, from adolescents to older adults, individuals and couples, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. I will help you manage anxiety, and depression, and view issues as problems to be solved. Through engagement and support, I have helped people with divorce/separation, marital distress and infidelity, and the challenges of parenting children and adolescents. I also work with people in 12-step groups with family-of-origin issues, like co-dependency.
(929) 238-8141 View (929) 238-8141
Photo of Suzanne Eng, Pre-Licensed Professional
Suzanne Eng
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11249
I offer a gentle space for you to bring your thoughts and feelings without judgment. In session, we can collaborate and I can offer a fresh perspective for your feelings and thoughts. I offer CBT and emotionally focused therapy techniques to help ease the pain and discomfort you may be feeling. We can together examine your thinking using psychodynamic methods which supports your emotional well being. I promote autonomy and independence as well as exploring your family connections. Understanding how you connect with others oftentimes involves understanding yourself. In this space, I hope to help you know yourself better.
I offer a gentle space for you to bring your thoughts and feelings without judgment. In session, we can collaborate and I can offer a fresh perspective for your feelings and thoughts. I offer CBT and emotionally focused therapy techniques to help ease the pain and discomfort you may be feeling. We can together examine your thinking using psychodynamic methods which supports your emotional well being. I promote autonomy and independence as well as exploring your family connections. Understanding how you connect with others oftentimes involves understanding yourself. In this space, I hope to help you know yourself better.
(347) 826-1676 View (347) 826-1676
Photo of Sarah Kaufman, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
In addition to working with individual clients, I work with couples and have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
You deserve to feel heard, understood, and valued. I’m passionate about helping people uncover new insights about themselves, empowering them to live more free and authentic lives. I tend to be conversational, collaborative, and engaged during sessions, encouraging open dialogue that fosters honest sharing. I also value feedback and regularly check in because I find it deepens our work together. My goal is to support you on your unique journey of personal growth and self-discovery.
In addition to working with individual clients, I work with couples and have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
You deserve to feel heard, understood, and valued. I’m passionate about helping people uncover new insights about themselves, empowering them to live more free and authentic lives. I tend to be conversational, collaborative, and engaged during sessions, encouraging open dialogue that fosters honest sharing. I also value feedback and regularly check in because I find it deepens our work together. My goal is to support you on your unique journey of personal growth and self-discovery.
(347) 657-5922 View (347) 657-5922
Photo of Marie Mercado, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Marie Mercado
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222
I am dually trained in psychodynamic + CBT, DBT, EFT, and interpersonal/relational psychoanalytic psychotherapies.
Clinical psychologist and native NYer located in north BK. I know how hard it is to find an active and mindful therapist who truly appreciates your troubles and your strengths, and who can also help you make effective life changes. Based upon your needs, I work to get you unstuck and feeling empowered, resilient, healthy and strong. My integrative style is effective for adults and couples coping with neurodivergence, relationship and identity issues, difficult life circumstances, alt and non-traditional lifestyles, transitions, and familial difficulties. While I may not be accepting new clients, my practice is! bkintegrative.com
I am dually trained in psychodynamic + CBT, DBT, EFT, and interpersonal/relational psychoanalytic psychotherapies.
Clinical psychologist and native NYer located in north BK. I know how hard it is to find an active and mindful therapist who truly appreciates your troubles and your strengths, and who can also help you make effective life changes. Based upon your needs, I work to get you unstuck and feeling empowered, resilient, healthy and strong. My integrative style is effective for adults and couples coping with neurodivergence, relationship and identity issues, difficult life circumstances, alt and non-traditional lifestyles, transitions, and familial difficulties. While I may not be accepting new clients, my practice is! bkintegrative.com
(929) 543-5536 View (929) 543-5536
Photo of Meghan Sunayna Mehta, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Sunayna Mehta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Are you struggling to feel fulfilled in life? Does waking up and functioning day to day seem unnecessarily difficult? Are you experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, or the lasting effects of grief or trauma? Therapy can help. I utilize and have training in a range of therapeutic modalities including Trauma Focused-CBT, DBT, EMDR, Psychodynamic therapy, Expressive Art Therapy, the Gottman method for couples, as well as EFT. I tailor unique plans for each individual client or couple in order to empower them to better understand themselves, achieve their goals and feel more fulfilled.
Are you struggling to feel fulfilled in life? Does waking up and functioning day to day seem unnecessarily difficult? Are you experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, or the lasting effects of grief or trauma? Therapy can help. I utilize and have training in a range of therapeutic modalities including Trauma Focused-CBT, DBT, EMDR, Psychodynamic therapy, Expressive Art Therapy, the Gottman method for couples, as well as EFT. I tailor unique plans for each individual client or couple in order to empower them to better understand themselves, achieve their goals and feel more fulfilled.
(929) 538-3584 View (929) 538-3584
Photo of Amy Mazur, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Mazur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, and Mindfulness, I will help you navigate the obstacles that you may stumble upon.
As humans, we all have an innate need for personal growth. As I see it, many of us live with a feeling that we have either been standing in one place for too long, or our lives around us are changing at a pace that we cannot control. In either event, it's common to feel overwhelmed, scared, anxious or depressed. However, these life events and circumstances can be amazing opportunities for growth.
Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Problem Solving Therapy, and Mindfulness, I will help you navigate the obstacles that you may stumble upon.
As humans, we all have an innate need for personal growth. As I see it, many of us live with a feeling that we have either been standing in one place for too long, or our lives around us are changing at a pace that we cannot control. In either event, it's common to feel overwhelmed, scared, anxious or depressed. However, these life events and circumstances can be amazing opportunities for growth.
(917) 722-4744 View (917) 722-4744
Photo of Ryan Cyrus, LCSW, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Cyrus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is rooted in principles of psychoanalysis mindfulness, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I believe that my role as a therapist is to help clients discover, engage, confront, and express all the (sometimes contradictory and conflicting) parts of the self. I believe that this brings about greater insight and understanding of who we are in the world. What follows is greater effectiveness and fulfillment, a stronger sense of meaning and purpose, and more levity and resilience in life.
My approach is rooted in principles of psychoanalysis mindfulness, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I believe that my role as a therapist is to help clients discover, engage, confront, and express all the (sometimes contradictory and conflicting) parts of the self. I believe that this brings about greater insight and understanding of who we are in the world. What follows is greater effectiveness and fulfillment, a stronger sense of meaning and purpose, and more levity and resilience in life.
(929) 470-2687 View (929) 470-2687
Photo of Daniel Schonbuch, MA, LMFT
Daniel Schonbuch
MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11225  (Online Only)
If you are looking for warm and compassionate therapy and to find more meaning in your life, you have come to the right place. I offer online therapy (zoom, phone, etc.) and specialize in treating Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD for individuals and marriage counseling for couples. My approach includes EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Logotherapy (Viktor Frankl). My warm and empathetic approach has helped thousands of individuals and couples overcome emotional difficulties and get "unstuck" and to start enjoying their lives. I accept insurance and have low fee options if you are paying out of pocket.
If you are looking for warm and compassionate therapy and to find more meaning in your life, you have come to the right place. I offer online therapy (zoom, phone, etc.) and specialize in treating Depression/Anxiety, Trauma, PTSD for individuals and marriage counseling for couples. My approach includes EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Logotherapy (Viktor Frankl). My warm and empathetic approach has helped thousands of individuals and couples overcome emotional difficulties and get "unstuck" and to start enjoying their lives. I accept insurance and have low fee options if you are paying out of pocket.
(347) 768-7593 View (347) 768-7593
Photo of Beatrice Ann Segal, LSCW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beatrice Ann Segal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Most recently, I was certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT) developed by Dr Susan Johnson.
Have you felt like you are missing your partner, or have lost the ability to talk to each other? Do you long to feel more connected? If you cannot understand why so many of your interactions with your partner or children end up in arguments then I might be able to help. I work with families who are experiencing this kind of distance and escalations. My clients state that after our work together: they communicate better, feel more connected and 'in sync" with each other and are better able to meet each other's needs. I have heard comments such as, "I feel like I am falling in love again" and "thank you, I got my child back".
Most recently, I was certified in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT) developed by Dr Susan Johnson.
Have you felt like you are missing your partner, or have lost the ability to talk to each other? Do you long to feel more connected? If you cannot understand why so many of your interactions with your partner or children end up in arguments then I might be able to help. I work with families who are experiencing this kind of distance and escalations. My clients state that after our work together: they communicate better, feel more connected and 'in sync" with each other and are better able to meet each other's needs. I have heard comments such as, "I feel like I am falling in love again" and "thank you, I got my child back".
(929) 269-8815 View (929) 269-8815
Photo of Sarah Shuster, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Shuster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11231
I am training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR, powerful forms of therapy designed to promote connection, healing, and growth.
I am currently providing in-person and video sessions for individual therapy and couples work. My therapeutic approach is focused on making room for feelings of relief, self-acceptance, and a sense of inner calm. My clients arrive to therapy because of a tension between their external life feels outs of alignment their inner desires. Or, their relationships a source of pain for them, leaving them feeling stuck, like they are just replaying the same patterns over and over again. My clients have curiosity about their own roles in their dynamics in family relationships, romantic relationships, and friendships.
I am training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR, powerful forms of therapy designed to promote connection, healing, and growth.
I am currently providing in-person and video sessions for individual therapy and couples work. My therapeutic approach is focused on making room for feelings of relief, self-acceptance, and a sense of inner calm. My clients arrive to therapy because of a tension between their external life feels outs of alignment their inner desires. Or, their relationships a source of pain for them, leaving them feeling stuck, like they are just replaying the same patterns over and over again. My clients have curiosity about their own roles in their dynamics in family relationships, romantic relationships, and friendships.
(929) 207-8079 View (929) 207-8079
Photo of Frankie Day, LMSW
Frankie Day
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11205  (Online Only)
Her therapeutic approach is tailored to the unique experience of the client, using elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Exposure Response Prevention and more.
Using a holistic approach, Frankie creates a space where her clients feel empowered to bring their whole selves into the therapeutic space, without fear of being judged or pathologized. Frankie specializes in treating OCD and anxiety, and is experienced in working with clients experiencing complex trauma, body image issues, sex & intimacy challenges, and life transitions.
Her therapeutic approach is tailored to the unique experience of the client, using elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Exposure Response Prevention and more.
Using a holistic approach, Frankie creates a space where her clients feel empowered to bring their whole selves into the therapeutic space, without fear of being judged or pathologized. Frankie specializes in treating OCD and anxiety, and is experienced in working with clients experiencing complex trauma, body image issues, sex & intimacy challenges, and life transitions.
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Photo of Dr. Andrew Seidman, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Andrew Seidman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11237  (Online Only)
My treatment approach is integrative, but I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and strengths-based approaches.
I am a psychologist with expertise in working with anxiety, life transitions, grief, family-of-origin, people living with a chronic illness (cancer, pain), ADHD, identity formation, relationships, depression, men's issues, and existentialism (values, meaning-making). Outside of my clinical practice, I am a Professor of Psychology at Brooklyn College, with extensive teaching experience at the university-level and research program (over 20 peer-reviewed publications), including funding from the National Institute of Mental Health.
My treatment approach is integrative, but I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and strengths-based approaches.
I am a psychologist with expertise in working with anxiety, life transitions, grief, family-of-origin, people living with a chronic illness (cancer, pain), ADHD, identity formation, relationships, depression, men's issues, and existentialism (values, meaning-making). Outside of my clinical practice, I am a Professor of Psychology at Brooklyn College, with extensive teaching experience at the university-level and research program (over 20 peer-reviewed publications), including funding from the National Institute of Mental Health.
(646) 466-5350 View (646) 466-5350
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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.