Emotionally Focused Therapists in Cedar Park, TX

Photo of Tara Joyner - Tara Joyner, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Joyner, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I combine Gottman method, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to find a therapeutic approach best-fit for each client.
My practice focuses mainly on topics surrounding relationship difficulties, depression/anxiety, sexual problems, and infertility. I work with male and female clients equally and work with all couple types. I believe you are the expert on your background, experiences, values, and goals. The therapeutic relationship relies on honesty, mutual respect, sharing, and openness. Making a connection is vital to the process. My ultimate goal is to help you define and attain the goals you want in life, and direct you on a healthy path to achieve them.
I combine Gottman method, Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to find a therapeutic approach best-fit for each client.
My practice focuses mainly on topics surrounding relationship difficulties, depression/anxiety, sexual problems, and infertility. I work with male and female clients equally and work with all couple types. I believe you are the expert on your background, experiences, values, and goals. The therapeutic relationship relies on honesty, mutual respect, sharing, and openness. Making a connection is vital to the process. My ultimate goal is to help you define and attain the goals you want in life, and direct you on a healthy path to achieve them.
(512) 337-3858 View (512) 337-3858
Photo of Stefani Goldberg, MS, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stefani Goldberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Are you having conflicts in your relationships? Does your past prevent you from living a fulling life or having healthy/secure relationships? Are you a new mom and struggling to connect with your baby, feel the societal pressure that this should be the most joyous time of your life? If you answered yes, we sound like we would work well together. I am committed to providing a nurturing, emotionally focused, and holistic approach to therapy. I work with people on developing self-compassion and strength to process emotions, and to become aware of self-destructive patterns/beliefs that hinder you from living life vibrantly.
Are you having conflicts in your relationships? Does your past prevent you from living a fulling life or having healthy/secure relationships? Are you a new mom and struggling to connect with your baby, feel the societal pressure that this should be the most joyous time of your life? If you answered yes, we sound like we would work well together. I am committed to providing a nurturing, emotionally focused, and holistic approach to therapy. I work with people on developing self-compassion and strength to process emotions, and to become aware of self-destructive patterns/beliefs that hinder you from living life vibrantly.
(512) 400-2659 View (512) 400-2659
Photo of Kevin Leapley, MA, LPC, CSAT, CEFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin Leapley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT, CEFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78630
I specialize in treating sexual addiction/problematic sexual behaviors. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) that believes the real issue is not the need for more sex but the desire for real connection yet turning to counterfeit connection due to past relational hurts, abuse, rejection, neglect, and abandonment. I am also a certified emotionally focused couples therapist and I specialize working with couples hurting from infidelity and betrayal. I believe that the relationship can be restored and become stronger than ever.
I specialize in treating sexual addiction/problematic sexual behaviors. I am a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist (CSAT) that believes the real issue is not the need for more sex but the desire for real connection yet turning to counterfeit connection due to past relational hurts, abuse, rejection, neglect, and abandonment. I am also a certified emotionally focused couples therapist and I specialize working with couples hurting from infidelity and betrayal. I believe that the relationship can be restored and become stronger than ever.
(512) 856-9957 View (512) 856-9957
Photo of Bianca Bentzin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bianca Bentzin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78630
Accepting New COUPLES clients. I provide caring support to individuals and couples. I strive to join clients where ever they are on their emotional and mental health journey without judgment or agenda. With couples therapy, I use my training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy & Gottman Couples Therapy to help couples learn to break unhealthy relationship patterns, learn new ways to communicate and deepen their emotional connection. I also work with individuals who are transitioning out of a relationship or into a new one and individuals seeking healing from anxiety, grief, trauma, loss or life transitions.
Accepting New COUPLES clients. I provide caring support to individuals and couples. I strive to join clients where ever they are on their emotional and mental health journey without judgment or agenda. With couples therapy, I use my training in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy & Gottman Couples Therapy to help couples learn to break unhealthy relationship patterns, learn new ways to communicate and deepen their emotional connection. I also work with individuals who are transitioning out of a relationship or into a new one and individuals seeking healing from anxiety, grief, trauma, loss or life transitions.
(737) 204-3449 View (737) 204-3449
Photo of Amanda Fernie, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Fernie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Through guidance and understanding individuals can improve their mental health and relationships. To assist clients in reaching their treatment goals, I use a variety of evidence-based practices with an emphasis on emotionally focused therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness. We'll work together to set goals for treatment and decide the best ways to make progress toward those goals based on your individual style and preference.
Through guidance and understanding individuals can improve their mental health and relationships. To assist clients in reaching their treatment goals, I use a variety of evidence-based practices with an emphasis on emotionally focused therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness. We'll work together to set goals for treatment and decide the best ways to make progress toward those goals based on your individual style and preference.
(512) 859-5294 View (512) 859-5294
Photo of Linda E Reed, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda E Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
I use a combination of research proven techniques: Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, and a Strengths Based approach to help you.
Are you struggling? Do you feel alone in your pain? Is life, in general, overwhelming? Are you tired of trying? Is there a relationship in which you deeply desire connection, yet no matter how much you try, it never seems good enough? Maybe you are beginning to think you are not enough. Whether the relationship is past or current, involves a parent, a partner, a child or it may be your relationship with yourself- it's just not working out for you. You want more. You want better. Of course you do! Your desire for connection and understanding is real and needed. Life is hard. We all get stuck. Are you ready for something different?
I use a combination of research proven techniques: Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, CBT, and a Strengths Based approach to help you.
Are you struggling? Do you feel alone in your pain? Is life, in general, overwhelming? Are you tired of trying? Is there a relationship in which you deeply desire connection, yet no matter how much you try, it never seems good enough? Maybe you are beginning to think you are not enough. Whether the relationship is past or current, involves a parent, a partner, a child or it may be your relationship with yourself- it's just not working out for you. You want more. You want better. Of course you do! Your desire for connection and understanding is real and needed. Life is hard. We all get stuck. Are you ready for something different?
(512) 982-0817 View (512) 982-0817
Photo of Lace Moon, MSSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lace Moon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
I use a diverse approach to therapy including mindfulness, somatic experiencing, meditation, EFT (tapping), ecotherapy, EMDR, and CBT.
I specialize in working with stress, anxiety disorders, women's issues, and trauma. I believe that through self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-love we can strengthen and grow the relationships in our lives and within ourselves. You may be struggling with issues related to relationships, confidence, anxiety, or major life changes. I am passionate about helping women navigate the most important relationships in their lives. I understand that the patterns are wired so deep in our nervous system that even when we consciously want to change how we show up it can feel impossible. The psychedelic experience allows you to uncover.
I use a diverse approach to therapy including mindfulness, somatic experiencing, meditation, EFT (tapping), ecotherapy, EMDR, and CBT.
I specialize in working with stress, anxiety disorders, women's issues, and trauma. I believe that through self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-love we can strengthen and grow the relationships in our lives and within ourselves. You may be struggling with issues related to relationships, confidence, anxiety, or major life changes. I am passionate about helping women navigate the most important relationships in their lives. I understand that the patterns are wired so deep in our nervous system that even when we consciously want to change how we show up it can feel impossible. The psychedelic experience allows you to uncover.
(512) 960-1751 View (512) 960-1751
Photo of Alex Parnell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Parnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78630
Through EFT, we'll explore and validate your emotional experiences to enhance your relationships and personal well-being.
Welcome! I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all my clients. My holistic approach intertwines Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Attachment Theory, and Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) to foster deep emotional healing and develop secure relationships.
Through EFT, we'll explore and validate your emotional experiences to enhance your relationships and personal well-being.
Welcome! I am a compassionate and dedicated therapist committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all my clients. My holistic approach intertwines Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT), Attachment Theory, and Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) to foster deep emotional healing and develop secure relationships.
(737) 204-3266 View (737) 204-3266
Photo of Gregorio Lozano, LPC, Counselor
Gregorio Lozano
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78641
I use a well-established method called Emotionally Focused Therapy which helps you reconnect with your partner, or with other people in general in a healthy way.
Hi, my name is Gregorio but people call me Greg. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas where I offer online counseling. I work with people who are in relationships that make them feel overwhelmed with painful emotions. I help people understand themselves and their partners so that they can be able to connect to them or with each other. Together we will work towards gaining a different perspective, with new tools to help you connect with your partner. My belief is that all behaviors serve a purpose and all behaviors have an origin. This insight about ourselves and others helps us understand our relationships.
I use a well-established method called Emotionally Focused Therapy which helps you reconnect with your partner, or with other people in general in a healthy way.
Hi, my name is Gregorio but people call me Greg. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas where I offer online counseling. I work with people who are in relationships that make them feel overwhelmed with painful emotions. I help people understand themselves and their partners so that they can be able to connect to them or with each other. Together we will work towards gaining a different perspective, with new tools to help you connect with your partner. My belief is that all behaviors serve a purpose and all behaviors have an origin. This insight about ourselves and others helps us understand our relationships.
(210) 934-4071 View (210) 934-4071
Photo of Kerry Willimason - Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Each therapist on our staff of 12 has unique specialties, including therapy for adults and teens, play therapy, marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery, EFT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, family therapy, and premarital counseling.
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., is a professional Christian counseling practice seeking to help people live and love more abundantly through practicing faith-based and traditional counseling methods. Each therapist on our staff is committed to helping you discover life beyond broken relationships, impaired thinking, painful behavior patterns, and debilitating intense emotions. You will be seen and known in your relational, emotional, psychological, or spiritual struggle, experiencing what it's like to be accepted, understood, and deeply challenged as your therapist joins you on a journey toward God's hope and healing.
Each therapist on our staff of 12 has unique specialties, including therapy for adults and teens, play therapy, marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery, EFT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, family therapy, and premarital counseling.
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., is a professional Christian counseling practice seeking to help people live and love more abundantly through practicing faith-based and traditional counseling methods. Each therapist on our staff is committed to helping you discover life beyond broken relationships, impaired thinking, painful behavior patterns, and debilitating intense emotions. You will be seen and known in your relational, emotional, psychological, or spiritual struggle, experiencing what it's like to be accepted, understood, and deeply challenged as your therapist joins you on a journey toward God's hope and healing.
(512) 960-3584 View (512) 960-3584
Photo of Ashley VanYperen, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley VanYperen
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I am specifically trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and Perinatal Mental Health.
Have you recently experienced a shift in your religious/spiritual beliefs? Are you struggling to understand what your purpose is, what your values are, and where to go from here? I am a former member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (aka the LDS/Mormon church). I have first-hand knowledge and experience with how difficult of a journey it can be to have your religious/spiritual beliefs change. Figuring out who you are-and what you now believe in-can be a painful, difficult journey, but you do not have to do it by yourself. I will be there to help guide you every step of the way.
I am specifically trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and Perinatal Mental Health.
Have you recently experienced a shift in your religious/spiritual beliefs? Are you struggling to understand what your purpose is, what your values are, and where to go from here? I am a former member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (aka the LDS/Mormon church). I have first-hand knowledge and experience with how difficult of a journey it can be to have your religious/spiritual beliefs change. Figuring out who you are-and what you now believe in-can be a painful, difficult journey, but you do not have to do it by yourself. I will be there to help guide you every step of the way.
(702) 903-7902 View (702) 903-7902
Photo of Michele Flores, LPC, LCAT, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele Flores
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAT, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
I utilize Internal Family Systems, emotionally focused and psychodynamic therapy, and energy psychology to help you gain an understanding of yourself and release prior patterns that are no longer serving you.
Do you desire a healthy relationship with yourself and others, but fall into patterns of people pleasing, negative self-talk, anxiety, or feeling less than? Do you find yourself showing up for others, while struggling to show up for yourself? Have you felt unable to express yourself because of family or societal pressures? Do you feel uncertain about communication and boundaries in relationships? Let’s journey inward to explore how these experiences are shaping your relationship with yourself and others to reconnect with your self-knowing and sense of self.
I utilize Internal Family Systems, emotionally focused and psychodynamic therapy, and energy psychology to help you gain an understanding of yourself and release prior patterns that are no longer serving you.
Do you desire a healthy relationship with yourself and others, but fall into patterns of people pleasing, negative self-talk, anxiety, or feeling less than? Do you find yourself showing up for others, while struggling to show up for yourself? Have you felt unable to express yourself because of family or societal pressures? Do you feel uncertain about communication and boundaries in relationships? Let’s journey inward to explore how these experiences are shaping your relationship with yourself and others to reconnect with your self-knowing and sense of self.
(210) 940-2435 View (210) 940-2435
Photo of Melissa A Emmerth, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa A Emmerth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
There are times in all of our lives when struggles arise. As a therapist, I will support you through your struggles and help you reach your goals. I understand the feeling of being hopeless and wanting things to be different, but not knowing how to get there. Therapy is a useful means for self-growth and it can provide you with a chance to reflect and find answers to help you create a more fulfilling life. In therapy, we will talk about how your experiences, thoughts, feelings, actions, and relationships affect you and your life. Together we will identify areas where you feel stuck and find new positive ways of responding.
There are times in all of our lives when struggles arise. As a therapist, I will support you through your struggles and help you reach your goals. I understand the feeling of being hopeless and wanting things to be different, but not knowing how to get there. Therapy is a useful means for self-growth and it can provide you with a chance to reflect and find answers to help you create a more fulfilling life. In therapy, we will talk about how your experiences, thoughts, feelings, actions, and relationships affect you and your life. Together we will identify areas where you feel stuck and find new positive ways of responding.
(512) 572-9559 View (512) 572-9559
Photo of Cartelia T Kennedy, MEd, LPC, SEP, RYT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cartelia T Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, SEP, RYT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow.I specialize in treating adults, young adults, adolescents 14-19, and families. Through therapy, there is always a way to address the issues you face and learn coping strategies to help move you toward what is important in your life.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, or any other issue, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow.I specialize in treating adults, young adults, adolescents 14-19, and families. Through therapy, there is always a way to address the issues you face and learn coping strategies to help move you toward what is important in your life.
(512) 648-4713 x101 View (512) 648-4713 x101
Photo of Stephanie Bassett, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Bassett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I provide in person and online psychotherapy to all ages. I work during the week and on weekends. I treat individuals with a wide variety of issues. I research and plan for the best information and help I can provide to a person as soon as I can. I am open and honest with the consumer. And confront them when they are denial with themselves at times with their problems.
I provide in person and online psychotherapy to all ages. I work during the week and on weekends. I treat individuals with a wide variety of issues. I research and plan for the best information and help I can provide to a person as soon as I can. I am open and honest with the consumer. And confront them when they are denial with themselves at times with their problems.
(512) 843-8526 View (512) 843-8526
Photo of Dr. Tim Parker, PhD, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Tim Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Being a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) means that I incorporate many facets of your life into therapy. Often people think that MFTs only work with couples and families, while we do often work a lot with these clients, we also work with individuals and bring our systemic approach to therapy with them as well. Personally, it just makes sense to me to take into account all of the different systems you are connected to as I work to help you be where you want to be. I will work collaboratively with you and bring more than a decade of experience as a therapist into our sessions.
Being a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) means that I incorporate many facets of your life into therapy. Often people think that MFTs only work with couples and families, while we do often work a lot with these clients, we also work with individuals and bring our systemic approach to therapy with them as well. Personally, it just makes sense to me to take into account all of the different systems you are connected to as I work to help you be where you want to be. I will work collaboratively with you and bring more than a decade of experience as a therapist into our sessions.
(512) 957-2687 View (512) 957-2687
Photo of Dr. Joy Morgan, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Joy Morgan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613  (Online Only)
When life feels tough, and the day-to-day can feel like a struggle, it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. You may be telling yourself that you can solve whatever is troubling you on your own, or that only weak people go to therapy. The truth is that life can be tough and everyone needs helps sometimes. Reaching out for help is a very brave step. I will help support you in gaining insight into yourself, identifying the areas of your life that you would like to change, and we will work as a team to help you create a life that feels better to you. You are not alone. I am here to help.
When life feels tough, and the day-to-day can feel like a struggle, it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. You may be telling yourself that you can solve whatever is troubling you on your own, or that only weak people go to therapy. The truth is that life can be tough and everyone needs helps sometimes. Reaching out for help is a very brave step. I will help support you in gaining insight into yourself, identifying the areas of your life that you would like to change, and we will work as a team to help you create a life that feels better to you. You are not alone. I am here to help.
(512) 399-4646 View (512) 399-4646
Photo of Robert L Turner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert L Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cedar Park, TX 78613
I sincerely appreciate that you have taken the time to consider giving me the opportunity to be a help to you or your loved ones. The focus of my practice is Trauma and Dissociation and Trauma related struggles. I currently offer counseling services for Individual Adults/Teens 16 and older. Are you struggling with uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, anxiety, depression, flashbacks or feeling disconnected? Do you have a history of childhood trauma or abuse? Have you had a recent traumatic event? Are you using coping strategies that are ineffective? Are you struggling to maintain good relationships?
I sincerely appreciate that you have taken the time to consider giving me the opportunity to be a help to you or your loved ones. The focus of my practice is Trauma and Dissociation and Trauma related struggles. I currently offer counseling services for Individual Adults/Teens 16 and older. Are you struggling with uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, anxiety, depression, flashbacks or feeling disconnected? Do you have a history of childhood trauma or abuse? Have you had a recent traumatic event? Are you using coping strategies that are ineffective? Are you struggling to maintain good relationships?
(512) 977-8857 View (512) 977-8857
Photo of Catherine Dilger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Dilger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Catherine Dilger is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who provides counseling to individual adults and couples. Catherine offers a safe haven for healing and growth. She specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, LGBTQ+ and ethical non-monogamy, and relationship issues. She will work with you to identify your goals and will tailor her approach to your needs, drawing from a variety of evidence-based modalities. Catherine strives to help individuals and couples thrive and she can help you identify and remedy what is standing in the way of what you want for yourself.
Catherine Dilger is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who provides counseling to individual adults and couples. Catherine offers a safe haven for healing and growth. She specializes in anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, LGBTQ+ and ethical non-monogamy, and relationship issues. She will work with you to identify your goals and will tailor her approach to your needs, drawing from a variety of evidence-based modalities. Catherine strives to help individuals and couples thrive and she can help you identify and remedy what is standing in the way of what you want for yourself.
(737) 205-3099 View (737) 205-3099
Photo of Katherine Frenzel, LPC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katherine Frenzel
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Katherine Frenzel is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate supervised by Angela Hardin, LPC-S. Katherine has over 4 years of experience providing mental health services to a variety of clientele, including adults struggling with substance abuse, children and adolescents in the foster care system, and those struggling with mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Katherine is passionate about helping clients address underlying issues and walking alongside them as they seek healing and growth. She is equipped to work with clients struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, low self-esteem, and trauma symptoms.
Katherine Frenzel is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate supervised by Angela Hardin, LPC-S. Katherine has over 4 years of experience providing mental health services to a variety of clientele, including adults struggling with substance abuse, children and adolescents in the foster care system, and those struggling with mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Katherine is passionate about helping clients address underlying issues and walking alongside them as they seek healing and growth. She is equipped to work with clients struggling with mood disorders, life transitions, low self-esteem, and trauma symptoms.
(737) 373-3032 View (737) 373-3032
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.