Emotionally Focused Therapists in Aurora, OH

Photo of Betsy Miller - Aurora Counseling and Consulting LLC, MS, LPCC-S, LSW
Aurora Counseling and Consulting LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC-S, LSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, OH 44202
There are times in our life when we can feel "stuck" and unable to move forward to live the life we desire and deserve. It takes strength and courage to reach out for help, but the rewards of therapy are life-changing. We at Aurora Counseling assist clients in idenifying what may be holding them back. We empower clients to gain insight into underlying issues, heal deep wounds, and create the life they desire and deserve. We are passionate about our therapeutic work and enjoy forming strong alliances with our clients, partnering with you throughout your personal journey of growth and discovery.
There are times in our life when we can feel "stuck" and unable to move forward to live the life we desire and deserve. It takes strength and courage to reach out for help, but the rewards of therapy are life-changing. We at Aurora Counseling assist clients in idenifying what may be holding them back. We empower clients to gain insight into underlying issues, heal deep wounds, and create the life they desire and deserve. We are passionate about our therapeutic work and enjoy forming strong alliances with our clients, partnering with you throughout your personal journey of growth and discovery.
(440) 271-8387 View (440) 271-8387
Photo of Cindy Kaufman, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cindy Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Aurora, OH 44202
I believe that each person has the ability to make positive changes by learning and practicing new skills and strategies to apply in whatever areas of their life they want to improve. I enjoy partnering with individuals, couples, and families to find their inner strength and move forward in the process of achieving their goals. I often blend elements from different evidence based approaches and tailor treatment according to your unique needs. I have expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy
I believe that each person has the ability to make positive changes by learning and practicing new skills and strategies to apply in whatever areas of their life they want to improve. I enjoy partnering with individuals, couples, and families to find their inner strength and move forward in the process of achieving their goals. I often blend elements from different evidence based approaches and tailor treatment according to your unique needs. I have expertise in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Humanistic Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Couples and Family Therapy
(440) 530-9191 View (440) 530-9191
Photo of Mindfully Strongsville - Mindfully - Strongsville, OH, LPC, LPCC, LISW
Mindfully - Strongsville, OH
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, LPCC, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, OH 44202
Mindfully Northeast Ohio, formerly known as Nancy Lowrie and Associates, is dedicated to helping our clients heal, grow, and thrive. We focus on matching clients with providers who specialize in the challenges they are facing. By providing the best fit from the start, we help our clients meet their goals with greater success and our providers find deeper fulfillment in their work.
Mindfully Northeast Ohio, formerly known as Nancy Lowrie and Associates, is dedicated to helping our clients heal, grow, and thrive. We focus on matching clients with providers who specialize in the challenges they are facing. By providing the best fit from the start, we help our clients meet their goals with greater success and our providers find deeper fulfillment in their work.
(440) 577-5512 View (440) 577-5512
Photo of Christopher Kline, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher Kline
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Aurora, OH 44202
Christopher D. Kline, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist who has had the pleasure of working with adults and adolescents for over 20 years in a number of different settings, from university counseling centers, community-based outreach programs, and private psychology practice, to working with corporate executives and teams. Dr. Kline received his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Akron, a Masters of Arts in Community Counseling from the University of Akron, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the College of Wooster.
Christopher D. Kline, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist who has had the pleasure of working with adults and adolescents for over 20 years in a number of different settings, from university counseling centers, community-based outreach programs, and private psychology practice, to working with corporate executives and teams. Dr. Kline received his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from the University of Akron, a Masters of Arts in Community Counseling from the University of Akron, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the College of Wooster.
(440) 683-6441 View (440) 683-6441
Photo of Lauren Kustec, LPCC
Lauren Kustec
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Aurora, OH 44202
Lauren Kustec is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Akron and her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Franciscan University of Steubenville. Lauren has experience working with individuals, couples, and families from various backgrounds and of all ages. Lauren has provided treatment to individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, and other mental health issues that impact daily living.
Lauren Kustec is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The University of Akron and her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Franciscan University of Steubenville. Lauren has experience working with individuals, couples, and families from various backgrounds and of all ages. Lauren has provided treatment to individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, adjustment disorders, PTSD, personality disorders, and other mental health issues that impact daily living.
(440) 754-7967 View (440) 754-7967
Photo of Jill L Jividen, MEd, LPCC-S, , Counselor
Jill L Jividen
Counselor, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Aurora, OH 44202
Waitlist for new clients
Good therapy is about feeling safe, secure, and at peace in our bodies; the journey to Self-Awareness. It's knowing you are not your symptoms of depression, anxiety, substance abuse etc...but understanding that this is how people learn to protect and how they cope. I am passionate about helping you go inside safely to begin to develop a relationship with yourself. You will learn that you really do have everything it takes inside to heal in a way that is lasting. I would be honored to listen, educate and teach about why you do the things you do without judgement, in a way that can then transform your life forever.
Good therapy is about feeling safe, secure, and at peace in our bodies; the journey to Self-Awareness. It's knowing you are not your symptoms of depression, anxiety, substance abuse etc...but understanding that this is how people learn to protect and how they cope. I am passionate about helping you go inside safely to begin to develop a relationship with yourself. You will learn that you really do have everything it takes inside to heal in a way that is lasting. I would be honored to listen, educate and teach about why you do the things you do without judgement, in a way that can then transform your life forever.
(330) 295-3359 View (330) 295-3359
Photo of Kalie Fish, MEd, LPCC, Counselor
Kalie Fish
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Aurora, OH 44202
Waitlist for new clients
You're tired. Tired of suffering in silence from a history of trauma, a stressful life, crippling anxiety and depression. You're tired of feeling like you can't quite get close to anyone because trusting yourself and others is hard. You're tired of feeling low, stressed, overwhelmed, overstimulated, and like no matter what you do on your own you can't seem to find a way to feel better. Your tried and true coping skills just aren't working for you anymore, and you can't think of new ideas for coping. Any hobbies you used to enjoy, you can't seem to get into anymore because they don't bring your the joy they once have.
You're tired. Tired of suffering in silence from a history of trauma, a stressful life, crippling anxiety and depression. You're tired of feeling like you can't quite get close to anyone because trusting yourself and others is hard. You're tired of feeling low, stressed, overwhelmed, overstimulated, and like no matter what you do on your own you can't seem to find a way to feel better. Your tried and true coping skills just aren't working for you anymore, and you can't think of new ideas for coping. Any hobbies you used to enjoy, you can't seem to get into anymore because they don't bring your the joy they once have.
(330) 583-4062 View (330) 583-4062
Photo of Cindy Pavlish - Chagrin Valley Counseling, LPCC-S
Chagrin Valley Counseling
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Aurora, OH 44202
Hello my name is Cindy Pavlish & I am happy you are here! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor w/ Supervisory Designation (LPCC-S) with the state of Ohio. I have helped clients 15+ years manage life challenges, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, life transitions, depression, coping skills, career & more. I offer the respect, expertise & empathy you deserve. I am honored to help guide you via your own personal journey towards self-awareness, improved wellness by providing you with opportunities to create healthy lifestyle adjustments, improve self-confidence, promote well-being, foster acceptance & develop inner peace.
Hello my name is Cindy Pavlish & I am happy you are here! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor w/ Supervisory Designation (LPCC-S) with the state of Ohio. I have helped clients 15+ years manage life challenges, relationship issues, anxiety, stress, life transitions, depression, coping skills, career & more. I offer the respect, expertise & empathy you deserve. I am honored to help guide you via your own personal journey towards self-awareness, improved wellness by providing you with opportunities to create healthy lifestyle adjustments, improve self-confidence, promote well-being, foster acceptance & develop inner peace.
(440) 740-3341 View (440) 740-3341

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kara-Myung Purves, MA, IMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kara-Myung Purves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
Hudson, OH 44236
I also provide CBT, EFT, & DBT Therapy.
I provide personalized care and work collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families, tailoring my approach to your needs and goals. I believe that the strength and potential for healing and growth lie within each person. The goal is to create a safe and supportive space for exploring experiences and developing healthy coping mechanisms and practical skills, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life. Please see my website for more details.
I also provide CBT, EFT, & DBT Therapy.
I provide personalized care and work collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families, tailoring my approach to your needs and goals. I believe that the strength and potential for healing and growth lie within each person. The goal is to create a safe and supportive space for exploring experiences and developing healthy coping mechanisms and practical skills, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life. Please see my website for more details.
(330) 576-5259 View (330) 576-5259
Photo of Married Life Coaching And Counseling Christie Orosz, LPCC-S
Married Life Coaching And Counseling Christie Orosz
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hudson, OH 44236
Christie Orosz, LPCC-S is Level 2 Gottman Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy trained, completing both externship and core skills intensive trainings.
Our goal at Married Life Counseling is to come along side you, as if to sit in the passenger seat of your car for a time to help you navigate the journey of individual, marriage & family life using Emotionally Focused Therapy, strengthening communication skills, understanding patterns, and finding clarification of personal & relationship goals. You are not alone in the struggle to navigate relationships & we are honored to work with you in finding practical solutions & real change for your unique situation. Call us today or click the link on our website to schedule a phone consultation to see if we are a good fit & how we can help.
Christie Orosz, LPCC-S is Level 2 Gottman Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy trained, completing both externship and core skills intensive trainings.
Our goal at Married Life Counseling is to come along side you, as if to sit in the passenger seat of your car for a time to help you navigate the journey of individual, marriage & family life using Emotionally Focused Therapy, strengthening communication skills, understanding patterns, and finding clarification of personal & relationship goals. You are not alone in the struggle to navigate relationships & we are honored to work with you in finding practical solutions & real change for your unique situation. Call us today or click the link on our website to schedule a phone consultation to see if we are a good fit & how we can help.
(330) 931-4341 View (330) 931-4341
Photo of Rachel M. Croce, MA, IMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel M. Croce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chagrin Falls, OH 44022  (Online Only)
I am trained in Level 1 Gottman and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT), using these techniques to increase intimacy, create secure bonds, and strengthen communication among couples.
I am a Couple & Family Therapist, licensed independently in both Massachusetts and Ohio. I work with couples, families, and individuals in therapeutic settings to assess, diagnose and treat trauma, infidelity, divorce, anxiety, relational hurts, depression, parent/child dysfunctions, grief and loss, life transitions, and other mental health symptoms.
I am trained in Level 1 Gottman and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT), using these techniques to increase intimacy, create secure bonds, and strengthen communication among couples.
I am a Couple & Family Therapist, licensed independently in both Massachusetts and Ohio. I work with couples, families, and individuals in therapeutic settings to assess, diagnose and treat trauma, infidelity, divorce, anxiety, relational hurts, depression, parent/child dysfunctions, grief and loss, life transitions, and other mental health symptoms.
(440) 226-0257 View (440) 226-0257
Photo of Hayley Whitman, MA, LPCC, IMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hayley Whitman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, IMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudson, OH 44237
I utilize scientifically proven methods, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman to help people stop repeating the negative cycle, get a fresh perspective, and move forward without the baggage.
I help people recovering from traumatic experiences in relationships and I offer guidance and practical skills to take home. People come because they had a difficult childhood and were hurt by people they were supposed to trust. People who have felt anxious most of their lives and don't know how to stop repeating mistakes. Sometimes clients come as a couple trying to heal from infidelity, built up walls, and pain. These couples are tired of feeling lonely inside a relationship. Couples who want useful communication skills to start healing and feeling connected again, to move forward. Look at my website to find out more.
I utilize scientifically proven methods, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Gottman to help people stop repeating the negative cycle, get a fresh perspective, and move forward without the baggage.
I help people recovering from traumatic experiences in relationships and I offer guidance and practical skills to take home. People come because they had a difficult childhood and were hurt by people they were supposed to trust. People who have felt anxious most of their lives and don't know how to stop repeating mistakes. Sometimes clients come as a couple trying to heal from infidelity, built up walls, and pain. These couples are tired of feeling lonely inside a relationship. Couples who want useful communication skills to start healing and feeling connected again, to move forward. Look at my website to find out more.
(234) 206-2529 x1 View (234) 206-2529 x1
Photo of Sharon M Blackledge, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon M Blackledge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Hudson, OH 44236
22+ years as an Independently Licensed Social Worker, completed hundreds of hours of advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and I am one of just a handful of certified EFT therapists in the state of Ohio.
As a certified Emotionally Focused therapist I help you move from disconnection and frustration to a more secure, trusting and loving bond within your most significant relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families in identifying negative cycles and stuck patterns, which create barriers to meaningful connection. By discovering and sharing underlying emotions, you’ll begin to have new conversations right in the therapy room, which help you redefine the contours of your relationships and experience continued improvement after treatment has ended. To learn more about my practice visit: www.sharonblackledgecounseling.com
22+ years as an Independently Licensed Social Worker, completed hundreds of hours of advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and I am one of just a handful of certified EFT therapists in the state of Ohio.
As a certified Emotionally Focused therapist I help you move from disconnection and frustration to a more secure, trusting and loving bond within your most significant relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families in identifying negative cycles and stuck patterns, which create barriers to meaningful connection. By discovering and sharing underlying emotions, you’ll begin to have new conversations right in the therapy room, which help you redefine the contours of your relationships and experience continued improvement after treatment has ended. To learn more about my practice visit: www.sharonblackledgecounseling.com
(234) 204-3969 View (234) 204-3969
Photo of Mimi Hanley, MA MFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mimi Hanley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA MFT, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Moreland Hills, OH 44022
EFT is one of the few approaches to couple therapy shown by research to be effective - over 70% successful - even with highly distressed couples.
I am passionate about the transformative power of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT) to help couples reconnect and stop their negative cycle of painful disconnection, conflict, anger and hurt. EFT combines theory and structure into an effective model that helps guide couples back to a secure and loving relationship. I use EFT because I’ve seen its powerful results in couples’ lives. EFT has shown unparalleled success in helping distressed couples to restore and deepen their emotional connection.
EFT is one of the few approaches to couple therapy shown by research to be effective - over 70% successful - even with highly distressed couples.
I am passionate about the transformative power of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy ( EFT) to help couples reconnect and stop their negative cycle of painful disconnection, conflict, anger and hurt. EFT combines theory and structure into an effective model that helps guide couples back to a secure and loving relationship. I use EFT because I’ve seen its powerful results in couples’ lives. EFT has shown unparalleled success in helping distressed couples to restore and deepen their emotional connection.
(216) 487-1957 View (216) 487-1957
Photo of Peg Tipka, LPCC-S, ATR, Counselor
Peg Tipka
Counselor, LPCC-S, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudson, OH 44236
Gottman and EFT based couples counseling, Guided Imagery, CBT Techniques, Hypnosis, and Client Centered relational and somatic approaches are utilized in the context of a caring relationship allowing you to explore safely - and move forward becoming the best version of yourself.
Grounded in the belief that experiences and events we have endured do not have to define the person we become. These experiences are part of our story but can only limit us if we allow. We'll explore your past experiences, patterns and processes to determine how it is effecting your current life, and co-create a path as you envision what is next .
Gottman and EFT based couples counseling, Guided Imagery, CBT Techniques, Hypnosis, and Client Centered relational and somatic approaches are utilized in the context of a caring relationship allowing you to explore safely - and move forward becoming the best version of yourself.
Grounded in the belief that experiences and events we have endured do not have to define the person we become. These experiences are part of our story but can only limit us if we allow. We'll explore your past experiences, patterns and processes to determine how it is effecting your current life, and co-create a path as you envision what is next .
(330) 441-4771 View (330) 441-4771
Photo of Lee London-Trail, LICDC-S, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lee London-Trail
Licensed Professional Counselor, LICDC-S, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Twinsburg, OH 44087
I have been on my own personal growth journey for the past 29 years and have integrated my learning in a way that it is easily shared with others. I practice mind/body/spirit healing and have been able to help others address all aspects of their addictive patterns, dependency issues, and mood/anxiety challenges. I facilitate a range of groups, including: Women's Empowerment, Parenting, and Step Family. I utilize many different techniques (per the client's comfort level). Some examples: meditation, mindfulness, psychodrama, guided visualizations, EFT, EMDR and Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy.
I have been on my own personal growth journey for the past 29 years and have integrated my learning in a way that it is easily shared with others. I practice mind/body/spirit healing and have been able to help others address all aspects of their addictive patterns, dependency issues, and mood/anxiety challenges. I facilitate a range of groups, including: Women's Empowerment, Parenting, and Step Family. I utilize many different techniques (per the client's comfort level). Some examples: meditation, mindfulness, psychodrama, guided visualizations, EFT, EMDR and Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy.
(216) 485-3185 View (216) 485-3185
Photo of Jill Gilberd - Jill Gilberd - Couples and Marriage Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Gilberd - Couples and Marriage Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chagrin Falls, OH 44022  (Online Only)
I have practiced treating a wide range of mood, attachment, trauma, and adjustment challenges by utilizing EFT, CBT and other evidence-based approaches.
I chose the path of therapy because I am passionate about working with couples to repair, reconnect and rebuild from past ruptures. There are moments in life when we experience challenges that we feel unprepared to manage and our relationships can suffer. I believe that in those moments, counseling can offer the support, insight, and tools to work through those challenges. My hope is to support you both; creating a safe space to work collaboratively where you both can develop new awareness about yourselves as well as one another, heal from past wounds and improve the level of security and vulnerability within the relationship.
I have practiced treating a wide range of mood, attachment, trauma, and adjustment challenges by utilizing EFT, CBT and other evidence-based approaches.
I chose the path of therapy because I am passionate about working with couples to repair, reconnect and rebuild from past ruptures. There are moments in life when we experience challenges that we feel unprepared to manage and our relationships can suffer. I believe that in those moments, counseling can offer the support, insight, and tools to work through those challenges. My hope is to support you both; creating a safe space to work collaboratively where you both can develop new awareness about yourselves as well as one another, heal from past wounds and improve the level of security and vulnerability within the relationship.
(216) 350-1764 View (216) 350-1764
Photo of Kelly Lucas, MFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Lucas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Streetsboro, OH 44241
When I first started my Masters Degree Program I found the following and remind myself and my clients of this... "I am here to listen, Not to work miracles, To help you discover what you feel, Not to make the feelings go away, To discuss steps with you, Not to rescue you and leave you still vulnerable, To help you learn to choose, Not to make it unnecessary for you to make difficult choices, To provide support for change." I am here to walk with you and provide guidance, empathy and encouragement along your journey.
When I first started my Masters Degree Program I found the following and remind myself and my clients of this... "I am here to listen, Not to work miracles, To help you discover what you feel, Not to make the feelings go away, To discuss steps with you, Not to rescue you and leave you still vulnerable, To help you learn to choose, Not to make it unnecessary for you to make difficult choices, To provide support for change." I am here to walk with you and provide guidance, empathy and encouragement along your journey.
(330) 863-8136 View (330) 863-8136
Photo of Amanda Essinger - Connecting Roots, LLC, IMFT, RPT™, Marriage & Family Therapist
Connecting Roots, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, RPT™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, OH 44240
The focus of our practice is rooted in strengthening connection for couples and families. Within the couples and families we work with, our therapy services cater to every stage of life, blending traditional and contemporary techniques to help achieve personal goals. Our focus is on encouraging self-discovery, cultivating meaningful relationships, and empowering individuals to take ownership of their narrative, establishing enduring connections to live confidently and fearlessly. Please feel free to email us to learn more or request an appointment!
The focus of our practice is rooted in strengthening connection for couples and families. Within the couples and families we work with, our therapy services cater to every stage of life, blending traditional and contemporary techniques to help achieve personal goals. Our focus is on encouraging self-discovery, cultivating meaningful relationships, and empowering individuals to take ownership of their narrative, establishing enduring connections to live confidently and fearlessly. Please feel free to email us to learn more or request an appointment!
(330) 859-4500 View (330) 859-4500
Photo of Derek Stegner, LPCC
Derek Stegner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Verified Verified
Hudson, OH 44236  (Online Only)
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
I have many years of experience working with early childhood trauma and severe, persistent mental illness, varying from ages of 5 years to 70+. My goal is to empower and advocate for positive change within you, as the individual, and the system as a whole. The place that we will create together is a safe and judgement free space. I work through an Existential foundation, to help those I work with seek meaning and purpose, with skills built from experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, all within the context of a trauma-informed approach.
(330) 359-1833 View (330) 359-1833

See more therapy options for Aurora

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.