Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a short-term approach to counseling most often used for couples, but it also works with families and individuals. EFT emphasizes developing a stronger bond between two or more people. It examines interactions and how each individual contributes to undesirable behaviors that negatively affect their emotional bond.
EFT’s goal is to reduce distress and negative patterns in the relationship so people can grow closer and rebuild trust, love, and intimacy.
There are three distinct stages in Emotionally Focused Therapy:
De-Escalation – The therapist has people slow down their conversations and interactions to examine patterns in this stage. Is one person not expressing their emotions? Is one person avoidant? Is one person quick to anger? Your EFT therapist will hone in on these specific exchanges to help you understand what interaction and communication patterns lead to hurt feelings and disconnection.
Changing Interaction Patterns – This stage involves encouraging each person to communicate their feelings and needs. Your therapist will help you express empathy, even during tense interactions.
Consolidation – In this stage, you practice the skills you learned during counseling. This stage aims to integrate more desirable communication patterns in EFT sessions and real life.
Anyone interested in improving their interactions with loved ones could benefit from EFT.
Therapists Who Specialize in Using Emotionally Focused Therapy
Welcome to my profile! The process of change is never easy, but the first step towards living a more fulfilled life is through seeking help when needed. I am glad you are visiting my page and I hope I can offer the type of supportive counseling you need. I am a firm believer that the process of growth is one that is best accomplished when you have support, hope, determination, commitment and...
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor at Beacon Pediatric Behavioral Health. My expertise lies in working with children, teens, and families. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral concerns, adjustment issues, and trauma, as well as working with families to improve relationships and dynamics. Our agency provides a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment, providing a...
As a marriage and family therapist, I have been successful in helping individuals re-create and maintain enjoyable relationships throughout their lives. My goal as a clinician is to help you and your loved one(s) learn to build loving, trusting, understanding and safe environments and relationships that enable recovery, moving forward and healing. I love to see you and your loved one(s) smile...
The ideal client is one that realizes that they want something different in life regarding their current situation and are honest with themselves, open to new approaches and willing to exercise mentally in therapy. Issues that are rooted internally and a need to be able to manage them. Our goal is to be able to promote objectivity in the mind by examining theories and tactics that could be...
In 2015, I left my job at Google to pursue a career that better catered to my lifelong passion for human interaction and relationships. My background in tech tailors my practice to those working in Silicon Valley, but my clients yield from all walks of life. I specialize in working with couples, adult individuals, those who have experienced trauma, those struggling with questions about their...
Life is full of transitions and changes; some are welcome, and some are life shattering. What do you do when the aftermath of these changes is too much to manage? While it is common to feel anxious, overwhelmed, defeated, confused, and uncertain; you don’t have to stay in that place. Defining your new normal after these moments can require support and guidance. I provide a space of openness and...
Are you feeling disconnected with your child or teen? Are you a teacher balancing life and work? A college student feeling stuck? Feeling overwhelmed with adulthood? I can help. Life can be tough and with so many influences on how we should look, act, and feel… it doesn’t quite match up to reality! With a virtual world as our main connection it can be a challenge to feel heard, supported, and...
***WEDNESDAY DAYTIME APPOINTMENT OPENING BEGINNING FEBRUARY 3RD*** “My goal is to help others process difficult obstacles in their lives, by giving clients the skills and understanding to take back more control over their symptoms and increase overall quality of life. Difficulties with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, and domestic abuse are only some of the stress that can impact us ...
This world can be hard to live in, especially if you are a sensitive soul. You may find yourself turning to food, substances, or other means of avoidance in an effort to cope. You may feel shame because of your sensitivity, or the fact that everyone else seems to "have it together" and has figured out how to "adult," except for you. Maybe you're going through a life transition, and are feeling...
“When I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” When we accept ourselves, even our painful emotions, we can then change them to transform our lives and our relationships. Battling with depression or anxiety can leave us confused and exhausted. The more we try to get fight and get rid of these painful feelings the stronger and more debilitating they become. My role is to help to end thes...
Do you ever feel stuck, just stuck? Whether anxiety and/or depression is the result of personal trauma, navigating life as a child or an adult with ADHD, the loss of a loved one, becoming first time parent(s), parenting a child with mental health challenges, recently becoming empty nesters, loosing a job, a medical diagnosis, surviving a toxic relationship, going thru a divorce or any situation...
Often two things can be true: you are “fine” but also down, anxious, or angry. Maybe you’re noticing certain patterns or issues come up in your relationships. Perhaps you’re experiencing body sensations or pains. Some problems are manageable while others feel overwhelming, this is not uncommon. Together we can explore how things show up for you and how often they are protective; they may not ha...
Today, there are many factors, including family dynamics, conflicts in relationships, work-life situations, your family’s mental health history, etc., that can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious and/or depressed. Through both relationship-centered and evidenced-based counseling, you can successfully improve all facets of your life. My goal is to help you identify the...
I bring my extensive experience creating healthy communities and fostering positive relationships to my work with couples, families, parents, teens, and individuals. I hold the belief that “the problem” is the problem, the person’s not the problem. Working collaboratively we will explore new ways of interacting that align with your own values, cultivate a sense of self, and foster the confidenc...
Worried about a changing teenager? Teens can be challenging and I love the challenge! I have a variety of experience working with children, adolescents & families who are struggling. I help with depression including suicidal ideation, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues, and extensive trauma history. My ideal client is seeking a multicultural therapist. I utilize techniques from a verity of...