Emotionally Focused Therapists in Mead, WA

Photo of Bill Frye, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bill Frye
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021
I am a clinical fellow with the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy and trained in Gottman therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Are you frustrated and feeling hopeless in your relationships? Do you argue with your partner without solving or even understanding what the problem really is? I specialize in working with couples who are struggling to connect. If you are desperate for communication and building trust, counseling can make a big difference. Whether you are looking for an individual, couples, or a family therapist I can be helpful as you discover new answers to the frustrations that have become exhausting. Let me help you focus your energy on actually solving problems, being understood, and feeling peace in your life.
I am a clinical fellow with the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy and trained in Gottman therapy and Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT).
Are you frustrated and feeling hopeless in your relationships? Do you argue with your partner without solving or even understanding what the problem really is? I specialize in working with couples who are struggling to connect. If you are desperate for communication and building trust, counseling can make a big difference. Whether you are looking for an individual, couples, or a family therapist I can be helpful as you discover new answers to the frustrations that have become exhausting. Let me help you focus your energy on actually solving problems, being understood, and feeling peace in your life.
(509) 588-0810 View (509) 588-0810
Photo of Taunnia Bockmier, LICSW, CMHS, CTHP, SUDP, CFTG, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taunnia Bockmier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, CTHP, SUDP, CFTG
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021  (Online Only)
Connecting with others in a positive holistic way can be a key to helping you experience a healthier and happier life. Choosing someone to empower, educate, and walk your path with you is an important step to gaining that experience. I approach counseling with the belief that YOU have the strengths and inner-knowledge you need to reach your goals. Healthy connection is the key to a happier life and I incorporate a holistic, mindful and nature-focused practice to facilitate your connection to yourself, others, and the world around you! I am here to assist in facilitating change and healing by encouraging connections in your process!
Connecting with others in a positive holistic way can be a key to helping you experience a healthier and happier life. Choosing someone to empower, educate, and walk your path with you is an important step to gaining that experience. I approach counseling with the belief that YOU have the strengths and inner-knowledge you need to reach your goals. Healthy connection is the key to a happier life and I incorporate a holistic, mindful and nature-focused practice to facilitate your connection to yourself, others, and the world around you! I am here to assist in facilitating change and healing by encouraging connections in your process!
(208) 502-4769 View (208) 502-4769
Photo of Linda Higley, PhD, Psychologist
Linda Higley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mead, WA 99021
I see myself as having the privilege to walk with my clients for part of their life's journey. There are times when we may find ourselves unable to see options, and unsure of the best way to proceed. In my office I provide a safe place to explore problems and to work with my clients. I practice from a strengths-based focus - this means we will identify your strengths, your skills and your abilities to make changes in your life. I love my work and I dedicate myself to my clients' successes.
I see myself as having the privilege to walk with my clients for part of their life's journey. There are times when we may find ourselves unable to see options, and unsure of the best way to proceed. In my office I provide a safe place to explore problems and to work with my clients. I practice from a strengths-based focus - this means we will identify your strengths, your skills and your abilities to make changes in your life. I love my work and I dedicate myself to my clients' successes.
(509) 878-3150 View (509) 878-3150
Photo of Jordan McCann, LMHC, Counselor
Jordan McCann
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021
My experience is primarily with children, young adults and couples. I also work with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy and have extensive training in couples counseling techniques. I enjoy humor and like to use it in therapy when appropriate.
My experience is primarily with children, young adults and couples. I also work with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy and have extensive training in couples counseling techniques. I enjoy humor and like to use it in therapy when appropriate.
(509) 414-7999 View (509) 414-7999
Photo of Teresa M. Eggleston, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Teresa M. Eggleston
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021
Are you wanting to reclaim your authentic self? You want to be more in control of your anger and emotions, not be taken for a ride again and again. You "know better" yet are frustrated that you keep doing the same thing. Or maybe you're in a relationship that's disconnected and you want to revive the love and intimacy? These can be challenging issues to face alone. Unfortunately, many people learn to tune-out or dissociate in these situations, which can cause more difficulty and lead to feeling stuck or hopeless. I focus on integrative practices that address your mind, body, spirit and emotions - it's not all in your head.
Are you wanting to reclaim your authentic self? You want to be more in control of your anger and emotions, not be taken for a ride again and again. You "know better" yet are frustrated that you keep doing the same thing. Or maybe you're in a relationship that's disconnected and you want to revive the love and intimacy? These can be challenging issues to face alone. Unfortunately, many people learn to tune-out or dissociate in these situations, which can cause more difficulty and lead to feeling stuck or hopeless. I focus on integrative practices that address your mind, body, spirit and emotions - it's not all in your head.
(509) 902-6234 View (509) 902-6234
Photo of Benjamin P Menard, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Benjamin P Menard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mead, WA 99021
Hello, my name is Benjamin Menard. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker beginning my private practice in Spokane. My specialty is non-directive play therapy for children ages 4 – 12 and talk therapy from ages 13 - and up. I use this client-centered approach with the theory that children use their play to communicate more effectively than language and typical talk therapy. I see play therapy as a way to meet children where they are and learn from them about their world.
Hello, my name is Benjamin Menard. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker beginning my private practice in Spokane. My specialty is non-directive play therapy for children ages 4 – 12 and talk therapy from ages 13 - and up. I use this client-centered approach with the theory that children use their play to communicate more effectively than language and typical talk therapy. I see play therapy as a way to meet children where they are and learn from them about their world.
(509) 850-0512 View (509) 850-0512
Photo of Dana Fuller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana Fuller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mead, WA 99021
You have your own personal journey that has brought you too today. Each individual, couple, and family have unique circumstances and personal aspects to bring to the therapy process. You are recognizing it would be helpful to talk with someone that can help sort out the thoughts, emotions, and life situations that led you here. Working together we can determine what is significant to your journey. We will build a relationship that is safe and open to explore vulnerable aspects of your life that will lead to personal insights, improve coping skills, and create lasting change.
You have your own personal journey that has brought you too today. Each individual, couple, and family have unique circumstances and personal aspects to bring to the therapy process. You are recognizing it would be helpful to talk with someone that can help sort out the thoughts, emotions, and life situations that led you here. Working together we can determine what is significant to your journey. We will build a relationship that is safe and open to explore vulnerable aspects of your life that will lead to personal insights, improve coping skills, and create lasting change.
(509) 253-7986 View (509) 253-7986
Photo of Conner Schilling, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Conner Schilling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021
Welcome! My name is Conner. I am passionate about stories, life being the greatest of them all. Sometimes along the way you feel stuck, trapped in a world that feels exhausting, confusing, even unbearable. These feelings may be new to you, whereby you find yourself in uncharted territory at a critical moment in time, unsure of what to do. Or perhaps you have found yourself in this position previously, wondering why these feelings keep resurfacing. The best part about this story of life is that what happens next has yet to be written.
Welcome! My name is Conner. I am passionate about stories, life being the greatest of them all. Sometimes along the way you feel stuck, trapped in a world that feels exhausting, confusing, even unbearable. These feelings may be new to you, whereby you find yourself in uncharted territory at a critical moment in time, unsure of what to do. Or perhaps you have found yourself in this position previously, wondering why these feelings keep resurfacing. The best part about this story of life is that what happens next has yet to be written.
(509) 246-6235 View (509) 246-6235
Photo of Emily Fisher, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Emily Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mead, WA 99021
Are you experiencing difficulties within your relationship? Are you a loved one of a family member struggling with substance abuse and trying to find your place? I work with individuals and couples looking for a place to grow individually or to connect more in their relationships. I help my clients identify negative patterns, aiming to foster a relationship to help them feel less alone, lost, or frustrated with their current issues. My work is highly attachment-based, a framework that focuses on the impact of early relationships on an individual's emotional and psychological well-being and how that shows up in the present.
Are you experiencing difficulties within your relationship? Are you a loved one of a family member struggling with substance abuse and trying to find your place? I work with individuals and couples looking for a place to grow individually or to connect more in their relationships. I help my clients identify negative patterns, aiming to foster a relationship to help them feel less alone, lost, or frustrated with their current issues. My work is highly attachment-based, a framework that focuses on the impact of early relationships on an individual's emotional and psychological well-being and how that shows up in the present.
(509) 408-3374 View (509) 408-3374

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michael Chessar - Michael Chessar Counseling Service, MA, LMHC, LMFT, NCC, Counselor
Michael Chessar Counseling Service
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99205
My practice is evidence based emphasizing modalities including; Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Terapy and Psycho-Dynamic therapy specifically tailored to YOUR needs and goals.
You deserve to live a full enriching life. Here you have the opportunity to be heard in a safe confidential setting. Here you can gain confidence, effectiveness and self expression in relationships and area's of life important to you, Don't let anxiety, depression or the past stop you. I enjoy and appreciate working with Individuals, Couples and Families on their journey. I invite you to try a FREE TELEPHONE CONSULTATION.
My practice is evidence based emphasizing modalities including; Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Terapy and Psycho-Dynamic therapy specifically tailored to YOUR needs and goals.
You deserve to live a full enriching life. Here you have the opportunity to be heard in a safe confidential setting. Here you can gain confidence, effectiveness and self expression in relationships and area's of life important to you, Don't let anxiety, depression or the past stop you. I enjoy and appreciate working with Individuals, Couples and Families on their journey. I invite you to try a FREE TELEPHONE CONSULTATION.
(509) 774-3994 View (509) 774-3994
Photo of Sara Garcia, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sara Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99202
I specialize in addressing attachment wounds, trauma & relational conflict using Emotionally Focused Therapy & Lifespan Integration.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed & anxious about the present, stuck or fearful of the future, or lost in grieving the past, you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Your grief, pain, sorrows, and disappointments are worthy of care and attention. I am passionate about walking alongside individuals and couples navigating life's challenges & I'm particularly passionate about helping couples experience secure bonding that lasts a lifetime. I absolutely love helping couples understand and transform their emotional responses, creating deeper connections and secure attachments, without either person having to sacrifice who they are.
I specialize in addressing attachment wounds, trauma & relational conflict using Emotionally Focused Therapy & Lifespan Integration.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed & anxious about the present, stuck or fearful of the future, or lost in grieving the past, you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. Your grief, pain, sorrows, and disappointments are worthy of care and attention. I am passionate about walking alongside individuals and couples navigating life's challenges & I'm particularly passionate about helping couples experience secure bonding that lasts a lifetime. I absolutely love helping couples understand and transform their emotional responses, creating deeper connections and secure attachments, without either person having to sacrifice who they are.
(509) 550-0412 View (509) 550-0412
Photo of Kathryn Bradford, MA, LMHCA, LMFTA, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kathryn Bradford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMHCA, LMFTA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99205
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), equipping me to work with a diverse range of clients from teens to couples and families.
Acknowledging our needs with grace and compassion is especially challenging when you or a loved one is experiencing parenting struggles, life transitions, the weight of anxiety or depression, or conflict in relationships. You're searching for a way through, and don't have to do it alone. I believe we're all worthy of being seen, known and deeply understood. My hope is for you to encounter a sense of that during our work together.
I have advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy ( EFT), equipping me to work with a diverse range of clients from teens to couples and families.
Acknowledging our needs with grace and compassion is especially challenging when you or a loved one is experiencing parenting struggles, life transitions, the weight of anxiety or depression, or conflict in relationships. You're searching for a way through, and don't have to do it alone. I believe we're all worthy of being seen, known and deeply understood. My hope is for you to encounter a sense of that during our work together.
(509) 285-9632 View (509) 285-9632
Photo of Cassandra Nolan, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassandra Nolan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99202
I am trained in Gottman Method (Level 1 and Level 2), Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Lifespan Integration (Level 1).
Hi, I’m Cassie. I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on anxiety, relational issues, interpersonal conflict, and stress management related to life adjustments. With a warm and collaborative approach, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and mutual respect. My therapeutic style is relaxed and gently direct, creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and supported. I believe that my role as a therapist is not to “fix” you, but rather empower you by providing you with tools to identify alternative perspectives and restructure unhealthy patterns.
I am trained in Gottman Method (Level 1 and Level 2), Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), and Lifespan Integration (Level 1).
Hi, I’m Cassie. I specialize in working with adults and couples, focusing on anxiety, relational issues, interpersonal conflict, and stress management related to life adjustments. With a warm and collaborative approach, I prioritize building a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and mutual respect. My therapeutic style is relaxed and gently direct, creating a safe and non-judgmental space where clients feel heard and supported. I believe that my role as a therapist is not to “fix” you, but rather empower you by providing you with tools to identify alternative perspectives and restructure unhealthy patterns.
(509) 245-2748 View (509) 245-2748
Photo of Nicole Williams, LMFTA, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nicole Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, MA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99202
I am formally trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Lifespan Integration (LI).
I am here if you are experiencing hardship, seeking support, feeling stuck, or pursuing a higher level of functioning. I seek to create a safe and welcoming space for my clients to reflect upon how the past is present and ultimately move toward a more authentic lived experience. I prioritize taking a whole person approach to therapy and seek to work collaboratively with my clients to explore how their mind and body can come together to work toward their goals.
I am formally trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, The Gottman Method, and Lifespan Integration (LI).
I am here if you are experiencing hardship, seeking support, feeling stuck, or pursuing a higher level of functioning. I seek to create a safe and welcoming space for my clients to reflect upon how the past is present and ultimately move toward a more authentic lived experience. I prioritize taking a whole person approach to therapy and seek to work collaboratively with my clients to explore how their mind and body can come together to work toward their goals.
(509) 287-4072 View (509) 287-4072
Photo of Brianna Safe, MA, LMHC, NCC
Brianna Safe
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99202
My approach is grounded in Attachment Theory, Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT), and somatic approaches to trauma and healing.
As a therapist, I am committed to the belief that people change in the presence of other people. This is what makes the therapeutic experience so transformative – the relational work of therapy provides a new context where you can seek to understand & unlearn old patterns that no longer serve you, while learning to navigate through your inner & outer world with more courage & ease. My approach is highly relational, viewing the need for connection to self, others & the world around us as foundational to human wellness. Together, we work to create shared experiences based in curiosity, vulnerability & (when appropriate!) humor.
My approach is grounded in Attachment Theory, Emotionally-Focused Therapy ( EFT), and somatic approaches to trauma and healing.
As a therapist, I am committed to the belief that people change in the presence of other people. This is what makes the therapeutic experience so transformative – the relational work of therapy provides a new context where you can seek to understand & unlearn old patterns that no longer serve you, while learning to navigate through your inner & outer world with more courage & ease. My approach is highly relational, viewing the need for connection to self, others & the world around us as foundational to human wellness. Together, we work to create shared experiences based in curiosity, vulnerability & (when appropriate!) humor.
(509) 361-6238 View (509) 361-6238
Photo of Tegan Brindley, MA MFC, LMCHA, LMFTA, NCC
Tegan Brindley
MA MFC, LMCHA, LMFTA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
I take a person centered, emotionally focused approach helping people thrive in different areas of life.
I am passionate about working with people through a variety of diagnoses and life circumstances. Whether you are going through a difficult transition, overcoming a trauma, coping with anxiety or depression or just want to become more self aware and live into your fullest potential, I am here to help process and give tools for healing and health.
I take a person centered, emotionally focused approach helping people thrive in different areas of life.
I am passionate about working with people through a variety of diagnoses and life circumstances. Whether you are going through a difficult transition, overcoming a trauma, coping with anxiety or depression or just want to become more self aware and live into your fullest potential, I am here to help process and give tools for healing and health.
(509) 401-8622 View (509) 401-8622
Photo of Rachel Farkas, LMHCA, Counselor
Rachel Farkas
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
As a trained Emotionally Focused Therapist, I know the transformative power of the therapeutic relationship.
You feel overwhelmed and disconnected despite appearing to have it all together. You grapple with constant worry and feelings of emptiness, at times questioning your own self-worth. This inner turmoil may strain your relationships, leaving you feeling isolated and alone, especially if past experience makes it difficult for you to trust. You're ready to start feeling emotionally connected to your loved ones and at peace with who you are. Whether you're navigating a major life transition or overcoming past challenges, you don't have to face it alone. Seeking therapy is a courageous step toward healing and I want to help you get there.
As a trained Emotionally Focused Therapist, I know the transformative power of the therapeutic relationship.
You feel overwhelmed and disconnected despite appearing to have it all together. You grapple with constant worry and feelings of emptiness, at times questioning your own self-worth. This inner turmoil may strain your relationships, leaving you feeling isolated and alone, especially if past experience makes it difficult for you to trust. You're ready to start feeling emotionally connected to your loved ones and at peace with who you are. Whether you're navigating a major life transition or overcoming past challenges, you don't have to face it alone. Seeking therapy is a courageous step toward healing and I want to help you get there.
(509) 785-6483 View (509) 785-6483
Photo of Mariann “Annie” Kinkle, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mariann “Annie” Kinkle
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
I integrate techniques from several counseling modalities including Attachment theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Theory, Bowenian Family Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Person-Centered Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome to my profile. I currently work with individuals struggling with depression, self-harm, anxiety, PTSD, emotional regulation, trauma, grief, low self-worth and life transition issues. I am skilled in working with individuals, couples, or families where there is a history of childhood trauma or attachment injuries that are negatively impacting functioning. I work with couples to manage communication and conflict and help improve relationship bonds. I help families develop healthy boundaries, reduce stress and conflict, increase empathy, and improve interactions between family members.
I integrate techniques from several counseling modalities including Attachment theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Theory, Bowenian Family Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Person-Centered Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Welcome to my profile. I currently work with individuals struggling with depression, self-harm, anxiety, PTSD, emotional regulation, trauma, grief, low self-worth and life transition issues. I am skilled in working with individuals, couples, or families where there is a history of childhood trauma or attachment injuries that are negatively impacting functioning. I work with couples to manage communication and conflict and help improve relationship bonds. I help families develop healthy boundaries, reduce stress and conflict, increase empathy, and improve interactions between family members.
(509) 341-0723 View (509) 341-0723
Photo of Aislinn Moira Noone, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Aislinn Moira Noone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
I utilize several modalities such as Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Lifespan Integration (LI).
Sometimes life can feel like a rollercoaster that we somehow can’t seem to exit, don’t know how we got on it in the first place, and are then having to white knuckle it as best as possible. That is why I went into this field to not only learn tools to help others work through challenges, but also provide a space to feel safe, seen, and fully understood without judgement. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you, help you grow, and help curate security with yourself, your relationships, and feel more emotionally balanced.
I utilize several modalities such as Emotion Focused Therapy ( EFT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Lifespan Integration (LI).
Sometimes life can feel like a rollercoaster that we somehow can’t seem to exit, don’t know how we got on it in the first place, and are then having to white knuckle it as best as possible. That is why I went into this field to not only learn tools to help others work through challenges, but also provide a space to feel safe, seen, and fully understood without judgement. My goal as a therapist is to walk alongside you, help you grow, and help curate security with yourself, your relationships, and feel more emotionally balanced.
(509) 778-5508 View (509) 778-5508
Photo of Kelsey Ralph, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelsey Ralph
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99202
I will incorporate the relevance of your environment, family & social network to provide appropriate treatment, while utilizing elements of several therapeutic modalities including Psychodynamic, Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT) & Bowen Family Systems Therapy.
I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, codependency and perfectionism. Problematic behaviors, thoughts and perceptions have their roots in past relationships or experiences that were emotionally or psychologically damaging. In our work together, I will help you to explore your family of origin, relationship history and current circumstances to overcome some of these emotional and psychological barriers.
I will incorporate the relevance of your environment, family & social network to provide appropriate treatment, while utilizing elements of several therapeutic modalities including Psychodynamic, Emotion-Focused Therapy ( EFT) & Bowen Family Systems Therapy.
I specialize in working with individuals who are experiencing relationship difficulties, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, codependency and perfectionism. Problematic behaviors, thoughts and perceptions have their roots in past relationships or experiences that were emotionally or psychologically damaging. In our work together, I will help you to explore your family of origin, relationship history and current circumstances to overcome some of these emotional and psychological barriers.
(509) 563-7087 View (509) 563-7087

See more therapy options for Mead

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.