Emotionally Focused Therapists in Alberta
Sheryl Singh
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Z
I draw upon Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment theory, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Mindfulness based practices.
Hello! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with several years of experience in the mental health field. I currently work with adults, teens and children. I believe that strength is a characteristic that resides in all people. It can however, be difficult to see during times of hardship and vulnerability. I am committed to providing a non-judgemental safe space, in which clients feel empowered to make the positive changes needed to live healthy fulfilled lives.
I draw upon Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment theory, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Mindfulness based practices.
Hello! I am a Registered Provisional Psychologist with several years of experience in the mental health field. I currently work with adults, teens and children. I believe that strength is a characteristic that resides in all people. It can however, be difficult to see during times of hardship and vulnerability. I am committed to providing a non-judgemental safe space, in which clients feel empowered to make the positive changes needed to live healthy fulfilled lives.
David Rolston
Psychologist, MC, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6C
Supporting others begins with the presence of a safe space of openness and acceptance that facilitates a client’s innate yearning for healing, growth, and self actualization. My own journey has led me to the joy, mystery, and wonder of self discovery, the healing experience of healthy relationships, and finding meaning and purpose in life. The enjoyment in my work as a therapist comes from guiding clients on their journey to discover what brings them joy and to help them reconnect to their inner resources – their strengths, wholeness, peace, deeper nature, and internal guidance and wisdom.
Supporting others begins with the presence of a safe space of openness and acceptance that facilitates a client’s innate yearning for healing, growth, and self actualization. My own journey has led me to the joy, mystery, and wonder of self discovery, the healing experience of healthy relationships, and finding meaning and purpose in life. The enjoyment in my work as a therapist comes from guiding clients on their journey to discover what brings them joy and to help them reconnect to their inner resources – their strengths, wholeness, peace, deeper nature, and internal guidance and wisdom.
Jennifer J Kerr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Strathmore, AB T1P (Online Only)
By incorporating narrative therapy, mindfulness, emotionally focused therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy, I work to help you gain more confidence, acceptance, and trust in yourself/yourselves.
You're here because you're looking for support. Because you're hurting, struggling, and want something different for your life. First off, I want to say that by actively looking for support for yourself you are taking a huge step. Take a second and be proud of yourself for that! If you are struggling with things like anxiety, depression, grief, change, relationship/family challenges, and navigating emotions, and are from SK, BC, AB or MB, then I may be a good fit for you as a counsellor. I feel especially strong working with teens, young adults, and couples.
By incorporating narrative therapy, mindfulness, emotionally focused therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy, I work to help you gain more confidence, acceptance, and trust in yourself/yourselves.
You're here because you're looking for support. Because you're hurting, struggling, and want something different for your life. First off, I want to say that by actively looking for support for yourself you are taking a huge step. Take a second and be proud of yourself for that! If you are struggling with things like anxiety, depression, grief, change, relationship/family challenges, and navigating emotions, and are from SK, BC, AB or MB, then I may be a good fit for you as a counsellor. I feel especially strong working with teens, young adults, and couples.
Core Elements Counselling and holistic health
Psychologist, MPC, RPsych, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1H
Exploring Therapy Together I'm a therapist with a twist - using PACT, Gottman, EFT, and IFS to deepen bonds and heal.
My services align with individuals and couples seeking to enhance their relational dynamics, achieve family harmony, and pursue aligned personal growth. They are attracted to my empathetic, resilient, and strategic approach. My mission is to illuminate the path forward with compassion and clarity. Journey with me towards skillful relationships with self and others. Your journey to healing begins here
Exploring Therapy Together I'm a therapist with a twist - using PACT, Gottman, EFT, and IFS to deepen bonds and heal.
My services align with individuals and couples seeking to enhance their relational dynamics, achieve family harmony, and pursue aligned personal growth. They are attracted to my empathetic, resilient, and strategic approach. My mission is to illuminate the path forward with compassion and clarity. Journey with me towards skillful relationships with self and others. Your journey to healing begins here
Amrita Bhar
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T6E
My primary approaches are Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are you having difficulty coping with life? Have you experienced a significant loss or life transition? Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, or relationship problems? Your thoughts and emotions may be feeling confusing or overwhelming. I strive to provide a therapeutic environment where you can feel free to express all your thoughts and feelings, even those that seem difficult and dark. We will work together to create an experience that promotes healing, change, and growth. You can move through the suffering to a richer and more rewarding life.
My primary approaches are Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Are you having difficulty coping with life? Have you experienced a significant loss or life transition? Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, or relationship problems? Your thoughts and emotions may be feeling confusing or overwhelming. I strive to provide a therapeutic environment where you can feel free to express all your thoughts and feelings, even those that seem difficult and dark. We will work together to create an experience that promotes healing, change, and growth. You can move through the suffering to a richer and more rewarding life.
Cathy Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5P
Are you or a loved one going through a difficult time and feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you struggling in your relationships at home or work? Are you worrying about the well-being of your children and their emotional health? I am a Registered Social Worker (Master's Level) with 30 years experience as a therapist. I help adults, couples and families move through difficult times, find hope and thrive!
Are you or a loved one going through a difficult time and feeling stressed, anxious or depressed? Are you struggling in your relationships at home or work? Are you worrying about the well-being of your children and their emotional health? I am a Registered Social Worker (Master's Level) with 30 years experience as a therapist. I help adults, couples and families move through difficult times, find hope and thrive!
Jocelyn Morrison Counselling and Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BA, BSW, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort McMurray, AB T9H
I work from a strength-based, emotionally focused framework and I also use a trauma-informed approach to therapy that is rooted in anti-oppressive practice.
Looking for a therapist is a personal process. It is important to find someone who you feel comfortable working with and who has the training and experience to help you work towards your goals. I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field since 2012. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work from Dalhousie University and I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples. I also hold a Perinatal Mental Health Certification through Postpartum Support International. I am located in Fort McMurray AB and working with Nova Scotia residents virtually.
I work from a strength-based, emotionally focused framework and I also use a trauma-informed approach to therapy that is rooted in anti-oppressive practice.
Looking for a therapist is a personal process. It is important to find someone who you feel comfortable working with and who has the training and experience to help you work towards your goals. I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field since 2012. I have a Master's Degree in Social Work from Dalhousie University and I work with children, adolescents, adults and couples. I also hold a Perinatal Mental Health Certification through Postpartum Support International. I am located in Fort McMurray AB and working with Nova Scotia residents virtually.
Michelle Emmerling
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5J
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for Eating Disorders/Body Image concerns from some of the world's leading experts.
I am a Registered Psychologist with over 15 years of extensive professional training in working with a diverse range of individual, couple, and family issues from a holistic and client focused perspective. This means I tailor my work to your unique experience and concerns so that we can work together to help you become aware of different aspects of your experience and areas where you may be stuck. I believe in building a caring, genuine, and supportive therapeutic relationship where you can feel safe to explore your concerns and together we can work towards helping you live a more fulfilling life.
I have specialized training in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) for Eating Disorders/Body Image concerns from some of the world's leading experts.
I am a Registered Psychologist with over 15 years of extensive professional training in working with a diverse range of individual, couple, and family issues from a holistic and client focused perspective. This means I tailor my work to your unique experience and concerns so that we can work together to help you become aware of different aspects of your experience and areas where you may be stuck. I believe in building a caring, genuine, and supportive therapeutic relationship where you can feel safe to explore your concerns and together we can work towards helping you live a more fulfilling life.
Calgary Counselling and Psychology Centre
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2J
Their modalities include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-based Somatic Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Attachment-Focused EMDR, Gottman methods, and Sex Therapy.
The Calgary Counselling and Psychology Centre is based in South Calgary. Our psychologists have varied therapeutic orientations and clinical trainings and will work with you to find the right approach for you based on your goals. We aim to support folks in reconnecting with themselves, create meaningful relationships with others, and build a sense of empowered agency in their lives. We often work with people who are struggling with mood (e.g., anxiety and depression, panic attacks), requiring relief from historical or recent trauma, feeling disconnected from themselves and others, or are looking to heal their relationships.
Their modalities include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Mindfulness-based Somatic Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Attachment-Focused EMDR, Gottman methods, and Sex Therapy.
The Calgary Counselling and Psychology Centre is based in South Calgary. Our psychologists have varied therapeutic orientations and clinical trainings and will work with you to find the right approach for you based on your goals. We aim to support folks in reconnecting with themselves, create meaningful relationships with others, and build a sense of empowered agency in their lives. We often work with people who are struggling with mood (e.g., anxiety and depression, panic attacks), requiring relief from historical or recent trauma, feeling disconnected from themselves and others, or are looking to heal their relationships.
Assured Psychology
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2N
Emotionally Focused Therapy is the primary approach, with additional therapies based on the client’s needs.
First and foremost we see our clients as human-beings trying to do the best they can with what they have truly accessible to them at the time. At Assured Psychology we are blessed to be able to provide counselling services for individuals (adults/older teens) and couples. We are also able to offer family counselling if needed. No matter the mental health or relationship concern, we approach every client from a de-stigmatizing supportive approach.
Emotionally Focused Therapy is the primary approach, with additional therapies based on the client’s needs.
First and foremost we see our clients as human-beings trying to do the best they can with what they have truly accessible to them at the time. At Assured Psychology we are blessed to be able to provide counselling services for individuals (adults/older teens) and couples. We are also able to offer family counselling if needed. No matter the mental health or relationship concern, we approach every client from a de-stigmatizing supportive approach.
Cherub Dhillon
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Z
Cherub takes a person-centered and integrative approach, primarily drawing upon attachment-based theories, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness and also uses aspects of Positive Psychology and Cross-Cultural Psychology in her work.
Cherub believes in supporting her clients in a compassionate, empathic and non-judgmental way in their journey of overcoming various life challenges. She aims at creating a strong therapeutic alliance with the client by providing them with a safe and comforting environment where they can feel accepted, supported and understood. She is motivated to help clients in their path of self-discovery, self-acceptance and utilization of their own unique strengths as a means towards healing and positive growth.
Cherub takes a person-centered and integrative approach, primarily drawing upon attachment-based theories, Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness and also uses aspects of Positive Psychology and Cross-Cultural Psychology in her work.
Cherub believes in supporting her clients in a compassionate, empathic and non-judgmental way in their journey of overcoming various life challenges. She aims at creating a strong therapeutic alliance with the client by providing them with a safe and comforting environment where they can feel accepted, supported and understood. She is motivated to help clients in their path of self-discovery, self-acceptance and utilization of their own unique strengths as a means towards healing and positive growth.
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Dailyn Mccalla
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
I also integrate my EMDR, IFS, EFT, Synergetic Play therapy, Sex & Intimacy trainings.
Welcome, my name is Dailyn Mccalla, and I am a provisional psychologist who can provide services in Spanish and English. I am passionate about helping others find joy and meaning in life while navigating their barriers and stressors. I use this passion to help adults, youth, adolescents, couples and families reach their goals. This also allows me to support individuals with trauma, grief, addiction, relationships, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, sexual issues, non- monogamy, relational discourse & depression. I enjoy helping people navigate the intricacies of sexuality and identity.
I also integrate my EMDR, IFS, EFT, Synergetic Play therapy, Sex & Intimacy trainings.
Welcome, my name is Dailyn Mccalla, and I am a provisional psychologist who can provide services in Spanish and English. I am passionate about helping others find joy and meaning in life while navigating their barriers and stressors. I use this passion to help adults, youth, adolescents, couples and families reach their goals. This also allows me to support individuals with trauma, grief, addiction, relationships, anxiety, ADHD, ASD, sexual issues, non- monogamy, relational discourse & depression. I enjoy helping people navigate the intricacies of sexuality and identity.
Brittany Dyck
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lethbridge, AB T1H
The modalities that I draw upon include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), emotionally focused therapy (EFT), mindful self-compassion, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), and synergetic play therapy (SPT).
Welcome and thank you for taking the time to view my profile! I am deeply honoured that you are considering beginning (or continuing) your counselling journey with me. As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I aim to create a warm and welcoming space where we can come together as a team to explore any challenges you may be experiencing. I am passionate about supporting children (ages 5+), adolescents, and adults working through stress, anxiety, depression, grief, overwhelming emotions, and relationship challenges.
The modalities that I draw upon include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), emotionally focused therapy (EFT), mindful self-compassion, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), and synergetic play therapy (SPT).
Welcome and thank you for taking the time to view my profile! I am deeply honoured that you are considering beginning (or continuing) your counselling journey with me. As a Registered Provisional Psychologist, I aim to create a warm and welcoming space where we can come together as a team to explore any challenges you may be experiencing. I am passionate about supporting children (ages 5+), adolescents, and adults working through stress, anxiety, depression, grief, overwhelming emotions, and relationship challenges.
Angela McGrath
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R (Online Only)
Some of the modalities I utilize include CBT, emotionally focused therapy, internal family systems, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a counselling intern working at The Centre for Mental Health and Addictions, offering a variety of therapeutic services free of charge. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I can provide support for a wide variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, burnout, chronic stress, and navigating life transitions. I aspire to create a safe and collaborative environment for my clients to explore and address their challenges. I aim to work with you to help you organize and make sense of your issues, see new perspectives, gain deeper insight, and find solutions that work for you.
Some of the modalities I utilize include CBT, emotionally focused therapy, internal family systems, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a counselling intern working at The Centre for Mental Health and Addictions, offering a variety of therapeutic services free of charge. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I can provide support for a wide variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, burnout, chronic stress, and navigating life transitions. I aspire to create a safe and collaborative environment for my clients to explore and address their challenges. I aim to work with you to help you organize and make sense of your issues, see new perspectives, gain deeper insight, and find solutions that work for you.
Stephanie Archer
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, BEd, BPE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2L
My approach is person-centered and integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
Have you ever felt hesitant to share, face, or give compassion to certain parts of yourself for fear of judgment, pain, or shame? You aren’t alone. Stepping into this process takes courage but it can also be incredibly rewarding. My goal is to help you address areas in your wellness that may need some insight, attention, and compassionate care. I’m here to support you through the struggles and to celebrate your wins, no matter how big or small.
My approach is person-centered and integrates evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution Focused Therapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
Have you ever felt hesitant to share, face, or give compassion to certain parts of yourself for fear of judgment, pain, or shame? You aren’t alone. Stepping into this process takes courage but it can also be incredibly rewarding. My goal is to help you address areas in your wellness that may need some insight, attention, and compassionate care. I’m here to support you through the struggles and to celebrate your wins, no matter how big or small.
Lisa Brent
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canmore, AB T1W
I also have training in emotionally focused couples therapy and accelerated resolution therapy (ART, Master Practitioner).
I work with adults. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and caring environment where trust and collaboration can flourish. Research has identified that a strong therapeutic relationship—characterized by understanding and respect—influences positive therapy outcomes. I work from a client-focused and strengths-based perspective, with the goal of exploring and identifying steps toward meaningful change.
I also have training in emotionally focused couples therapy and accelerated resolution therapy (ART, Master Practitioner).
I work with adults. I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and caring environment where trust and collaboration can flourish. Research has identified that a strong therapeutic relationship—characterized by understanding and respect—influences positive therapy outcomes. I work from a client-focused and strengths-based perspective, with the goal of exploring and identifying steps toward meaningful change.
Tracy McGimpsey
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonton, AB T5L
I employ CBT, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and self-compassion theory in my practice.
Beginning therapy is a difficult experience for many people and it may take time to feel comfortable scheduling an appointment. Many people are nervous or anxious for their first therapy session and that's okay. It really makes sense considering you're opening up about difficult things to someone you've just met. I strive to provide a safe, comfortable, compassionate space for the people I work with so they can feel comfortable being themselves without judgment or fear.
I employ CBT, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and self-compassion theory in my practice.
Beginning therapy is a difficult experience for many people and it may take time to feel comfortable scheduling an appointment. Many people are nervous or anxious for their first therapy session and that's okay. It really makes sense considering you're opening up about difficult things to someone you've just met. I strive to provide a safe, comfortable, compassionate space for the people I work with so they can feel comfortable being themselves without judgment or fear.
Bryce Lechelt
Marriage & Family Therapist, BTh, MAMFT
Verified Verified
Brooks, AB T1R
In therapy, I draw from approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Therapy is a support, and we all have other various supports in our lives. At times we face challenges where we want help, whether it’s rock climbing, building a home, raising children, or thinking about life changing decisions. We’ve perhaps watched someone build a house by themselves on YouTube, but even when they do it by themselves, they use all kinds of buttresses and structures to support things while they get the home to the point where it holds itself together without those supports. Therapists work themselves out of a job because we want to see people grow and succeed, gaining the tools and confidence to thrive in life.
In therapy, I draw from approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Narrative Therapy.
Therapy is a support, and we all have other various supports in our lives. At times we face challenges where we want help, whether it’s rock climbing, building a home, raising children, or thinking about life changing decisions. We’ve perhaps watched someone build a house by themselves on YouTube, but even when they do it by themselves, they use all kinds of buttresses and structures to support things while they get the home to the point where it holds itself together without those supports. Therapists work themselves out of a job because we want to see people grow and succeed, gaining the tools and confidence to thrive in life.
Oi-Wah Whitbourne
Counsellor, MA, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2E
My latest learning of Emotionally Focused Therapy is the amazing way to help individuals and couples.
Over 30 years, I have the privilege of talking to, listening to, walking with and praying for women & couples who struggle with their family, marital, and interpersonal relationships. In 2002, I graduated with a MA in counselling. Since then I have been counselling formally in the Calgary area. I love to help women to reconnect with God in their spiritual struggles and work on their relationships with others. I have journeyed with many women who experience domestic abuse. The vicious cycle has kept many in terrifying living situations. I also enjoy working with couples who love each other but have a hard time getting along.
My latest learning of Emotionally Focused Therapy is the amazing way to help individuals and couples.
Over 30 years, I have the privilege of talking to, listening to, walking with and praying for women & couples who struggle with their family, marital, and interpersonal relationships. In 2002, I graduated with a MA in counselling. Since then I have been counselling formally in the Calgary area. I love to help women to reconnect with God in their spiritual struggles and work on their relationships with others. I have journeyed with many women who experience domestic abuse. The vicious cycle has kept many in terrifying living situations. I also enjoy working with couples who love each other but have a hard time getting along.
Michael Enman
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych, CRHSP
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3R
Located in Calgary, I am a senior Psychologist providing therapy to individuals and couples experiencing emotional and interpersonal challenges, & relationship issues (e.g., affairs, conflict, trust, communication; divorce); mental health disorders, risky/problematic substance use, and/or more general problems of living. I have advanced training in several therapeutic approaches, including, but not limited to: Cognitive-behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and couples therapy (Gottman method, Integrative Behavioural Couples Therapy, and Emotionally-focused Therapy). I regularly train PhD students, psychology residents, and provisional psychologists. Additionally, I have expertise working with families (and their adult children), and the assessment/treatment of adult ADHD.
Located in Calgary, I am a senior Psychologist providing therapy to individuals and couples experiencing emotional and interpersonal challenges, & relationship issues (e.g., affairs, conflict, trust, communication; divorce); mental health disorders, risky/problematic substance use, and/or more general problems of living. I have advanced training in several therapeutic approaches, including, but not limited to: Cognitive-behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, and couples therapy (Gottman method, Integrative Behavioural Couples Therapy, and Emotionally-focused Therapy). I regularly train PhD students, psychology residents, and provisional psychologists. Additionally, I have expertise working with families (and their adult children), and the assessment/treatment of adult ADHD.
See more therapy options for Alberta
Emotionally Focused Counsellors
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.