Marriage & Couples Counseling
Marriage & Couples Counseling in Nacogdoches/Deep East Texas
When "communication tools" aren't enough, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) helps you uncover the heart of what’s keeping you stuck and build a bond that lasts.
Does it feel like you’re having the same argument over and over?
You’ve probably tried the "I-statements." You’ve tried to "listen better." But in the heat of the moment, those tools feel flimsy. You aren’t just fighting about the dishes or the schedule; you’re fighting to feel seen, valued, and safe.
You might feel like you’re constantly walking on eggshells, or perhaps you’ve gone quiet because it feels safer than starting another conflict. This is 'The Cycle'—and it’s the enemy, not your partner.
How Emotionally Focused Therapy Makes a Difference
Many forms of therapy focus on changing a behavior or learning a new skill. But if the underlying emotional bond isn't secure, those changes don't stick. Using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), we look at the heart of the matter. We don't just talk about the conflict; we reshape the emotional responses that drive it. This fundamental shift in how you relate to one another creates a secure base where you no longer have to "manage" the relationship because the connection is naturally there.
In therapy we will focus on:
Identifying the "Negative Cycle" that keeps you stuck.
Accessing the deeper emotions underneath the anger or withdrawal.
Creating new & different moments of vulnerability and safety.
Healing from "Attachment Injuries" (infidelity, broken trust, or seasons of neglect).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My partner doesn't want to come. Can I come alone?
A: It’s very common for one partner to feel more ready for therapy than the other. While I do offer individual sessions, it’s important to know that to protect the neutrality and effectiveness of future couples work, I cannot transition from being your individual therapist to being your 'couple's' therapist.
If there is a chance your partner might join you later, I recommend we start with a consultation to discuss the best path forward. If we begin individual work now and you later decide to pursue couples therapy, I will provide a trusted referral to a colleague to ensure your relationship gets a fresh, unbiased start.
Q: How long does EFT take?
A: Emotionally Focused Therapy is a relational process, not a quick fix. The length of therapy depends on many factors, including how long patterns of conflict or disconnection have been present, the complexity of the challenges you’re facing, and the goals you and your partner have for your relationship. For most couples, a minimum of 8 sessions is typically needed to begin creating meaningful movement toward a more secure and connected bond. From there, the pace and length of therapy are tailored to each couple’s unique story, needs, and capacity for change—ensuring the work supports not just improvement, but lasting transformation.
Q: We’ve tried therapy before and it didn't work. How is this different?
A: I hear this often, and it’s a valid concern. Couples therapy requires a specialized framework that differs significantly from individual counseling. If previous attempts felt ineffective, it may have been the methodology rather than a lack of potential for change.
I utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which is widely considered the most empirically validated approach in the field. Extensive research indicates that EFT helps over 70% of couples achieve full recovery, with 90% experiencing a substantial increase in relationship satisfaction. Because EFT rewires the way you relate to one another, these results aren't just a temporary fix—90% of couples stay on track two or more years later.
“The key to lasting change in relationships is emotional safety and secure connection.”
– Dr. Sue Johnson
Fees
Individual Counseling: $130/ hour
Couples Counseling: $150/ hour
Cox Christian Counseling works with many insurance plans.
Insurance coverage varies, and client responsibility is determined by each individual plan’s benefits.
INSURANCES ACCEPTED:
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
United Healthcare
Aetna
Cigna
A minimum of 24 hours notice is required to cancel/reschedule appointments without being charged a missed session fee.
Get In Touch
If you're interested in working together to transform your relationship, click on the link, complete the form, and I will contact you within 48 business hours.