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
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC) with a Master of Arts (MA) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University Chicago. In addition to my education, I have led divorce recovery groups, helping many people work through their pain. Some of the other groups I have led include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT),...
I have always had an interest in not only how our minds, bodies, and spirits are connected, but also what takes place when an imbalance exists and then how to implore healing. I look at an individual through a holistic lens, and use this approach, when appropriate. As part of this holistic approach, I have the belief that as a part of the world and universe in which we live, that we are all,...
I love working with clients who are motivated to make change in their lives. I understand that it takes courage to enter therapy and share your closest secrets with a stranger. With a BA in Women's Studies and a PhD in clinical psychology, I am trained as a scientist-practitioner and have taught college-level psychology classes for over a decade. I draw on the latest research to guide my...
As we are facing uncertainty you may feel overwhelmed. You may have a loved with special needs and trying to navigate through day to day life while home. I am here if you want to talk about it. Life can present many challenges. Are you looking for extra support, guidance and a listening ear? I am passionate about helping individuals who are struggling emotionally. While we can't change difficul...
I continue to be amazed by the power of relationships to heal the deepest, most persistent sources of pain. I am committed to helping people make contact with the parts of themselves that are whole, healthy and untouched by whatever difficulties or trauma they may have experienced. I do this by paying close attention to your thoughts and feelings in the present while also including your body in...
Finding the right therapist is no different than finding the perfect dentist, doctor, or other medical professional. In many ways, it may even be more important to you. Your therapist may know more about you than any other person in your life. I take this responsibility very seriously. I realize that you are trusting me with one of your most precious assets, your mental health. There have been...
Our goal is regaining peace, joy and resilience in the crisis, challenge and hurt of our client's lives. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and trained in the following therapies: CBT, DBT, Solution Focused, Behavior Modification, Somatic experiencing, EMDR, Narrative therapy, Mindfulness, Sensorimotor, Addiction treatment, Attachment Commitment thera...
Stephanie prefers to cater to her clients needs and incorporates several therapeutic modalities such as CBT, ACT, DBT, Mindfulness, and traditional Psychotherapy. Stephanie is a dedicated, compassionate, and empathic therapist who likes to foster a safe place and judgement free, welcoming environment for her clients where they have the freedom to express themselves and their needs while also...
Steve uses an integrative approach to best tailor to his clients individual needs, goals, and expectations. Techniques vary with a focus around CBT, a person-centered approach, and REBT. He also utilizes a Positive Confrontational approach, where he therapeutically challenges and confronts clients' negative perceptions, beliefs, assumptions, and automatic thoughts. Steve works with clients from...
Feeling disconnected from your partner, like you are living parallel lives? We are social creatures and desire connection with others. You may be feeling hurt, confused, or stressed and need the support of someone that can listen and help you navigate the needs and wants of the relationship while learning the skills to resolve conflict. I will help you to learn to understand what your partner i...
Do you desire to move beyond your circumstance or issues and gain a new and healthy perspective in life? No matter your challenge or situation, whether it is stagnation, life transitions, anxiety, depression, leadership struggles, faith/spiritual guidance, parenting issues, communication barriers, grief or loss, identity issues, marital conflict or just navigating life. Together we will work on...
Congratulations! You have chosen to seek help. It is important to find a therapist you can build a relationship with. I am described as an interactive, insightful, intuitive, genuine, non-judgemental therapist. My expertise comes from a unique balance of professional and personal training and experience. I have a passion for what I do and love coming to work everyday. I would love to join you i...
Do you dream of more satisfaction in your relationships and in your life? Do the demands of life leave you struggling and feeling alone, exhausted and overwhelmed? Have you ever suspected wounds from the past to be affecting your daily life? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I want to work with you. I can assist couples and individuals in working though their concerns in a...
Wanting change is hard. The idea of applying change can be terrifying and can even seem like a dream. Therapy is learning to become vulnerable, authentic, to feel balanced and whole. If you are struggling professionally, in your personal relationships, marriage/family, struggling with anxiety, depression and trauma. I am passionate in helping individuals, and couples to enhance their relationsh...
We all need support in our lives. My name is Jessica, a relational counselor with a passion for helping people find hope and healing in the most difficult circumstances. Counseling can provide support for personal growth, self-awareness, trauma, anxiety/depression and relationships. Additionally, as a Certified Grief Counselor and Certified Child Life Specialist, I offer specialized support for...
