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
Julia's approach is strengths-based and person-centered. She utilizes a combination of various treatment modalities including humanistic, feminist, solution-focused, and psychodynamic therapy. Julia draws upon CBT techniques and incorporate aspects of mindfulness when appropriate. She specializes in developing coping skills and empowers her clients to feel that they have the ability to handle a...
Hi, I’m glad you’re here! I think you’ll find that my therapy practice is a welcoming and productive space where you can be truly heard. Together, we will explore the aspects of your life that are bothering you and getting in your way— even if you’re not exactly sure what those obstacles are. We'll delve into your habits, thought processes, and interpersonal relationships to find and change the...
I specialize in working with preschool-aged children who might be struggling with social, emotional, or behavioral development. My clients learn coping skills to experience increased success in school and at home. I help children overcome conflict and develop positive relationships with their peers, family, and teachers. I will work with your family to increase easy communication and positive...
My name is Sandra Gunn and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist in Idaho. I have worked extensively with families, children and couples for many years in private practice. I have also worked in the Non Profit sector advocating for children's safety and strong family systems. My many years as a business owner has given me hands on life experiences, both with managing children, work, and...
Is your child struggling? angry? cutting? stressed? Is your teen only communicating by fighting? Is it "just a phase" or something else? It’s a blend of behaviors and emotions that keep children fighting with their parents or retreating to their rooms. Teens struggle understanding how to reconnect with parents and how to build on family values. My interest is to assist teens and children to...
I have more than 20 years of experience in career counseling, disabilities services and substance abuse. I also have experience with counseling school age students, foster parents and family dealing with adoptions. I am experience with individual and family dealing anxiety, anger management, school related issues, family therapy, behavioral issues and parenting issues. I am here to work with yo...
Life is a journey full of ups and downs, twists and turns, dry valleys, and scenic mountaintops. At times, it can be difficult to navigate. We may resist going in a direction that feels unknown because it is uncomfortable to do things we've never done before; however, it is in the places of discomfort that we can create the most growth and discover our most authentic selves. Maybe you feel stuc...
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (PSY31363) providing Individual, Family and Couples psychotherapy in a private practice setting in both West Los Angeles & Glendale. I work primarily with adolescents, young adults & adults struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral/emotional disturbance, relationship/family dilemmas. I provide a flexible approach to understand and respond to t...
Whatever emotional pain you may be experiencing, you can find relief and support - Distress can be a catalyst for change. In the safety of the therapeutic space, we will explore your unique blend of culture, identity and experience, clarify thoughts and feelings, and identify inner and outer factors that promote your wellbeing or increase your distress. I view therapy as a journey we take toget...
I am impressed by the resilience and strength demonstrated by those I work with and trust in their ability to meet those challenges they may be facing. Motivation and courage to make desired changes is fostered in the context of a nurturing relationship. I provide a counseling environment of this nature through: Asking questions that help to elicit self-awareness and insight, listening...
Life is filled with good times and bad, struggles and joy, ups and downs. I approach therapy with the goal to lessen overall misery and increase joy. I have met incredible people in my life, and I have enjoyed hearing and helping people through their journeys. We are all human, and I think it's important to be very human in therapy. Even as a psychologist, I struggle at times too. Therapy is a...
Welcome. My name is Deanne Edwards and I’ve been honored to be in the helping field since 1994. I work to create an inviting, safe space for you to share your story, your pain, your strengths and your heart in hopes of finding a new and transformative experience through our work together. Looking for help takes courage and I will do my best to help you find a way through difficult times and...
When life is challenging, you do not have to cope on your own. As your counselor, I will join you in your pursuit of healing and wholeness; provide a safe place for you to open up; help you make sense of what is going on; and offer caring support to promote growth and positive change. Together, we will choose a therapeutic approach that is tailored to your unique situation and your goals....
Addiction and its accompanying issues make life a struggle for both the client and for those who love them. Those in active addiction intuitively know there is a gap between the life they're demonstrating and the possibilities their potential affords - if they could only get out of their own way. My methods promote profound fundamental change: the shedding of self-destructive attributes, the...
My practice is dedicated to offering individuals the supports necessary to navigate through difficulties and guide towards a more authentic way of moving forward in their lives. I specialize in maternal mental health including anxiety and depression, trauma, parenting issues, feelings of being stressed, loss/grief and life transitions. I have been working with children, mothers and families for...
