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
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Hi, I'm Amy Jo! As an LMSW, I practice a person-centered, strengths-based, trauma-focused approach to therapy. I have worked with individuals that have been victims of trauma, teens that struggled with compulsive behavior & emotional distress, families that struggle to overcome their differences, adults that want more out of life & to worry less, & couples longing for strengthened marriages. Wh...
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Hi, I'm Kelsey. I'm so glad you are here! I provide counseling & coaching virtually. Are you ready to experience more freedom in your life? Are you struggling with anxiety, achieving goals, experiencing communication or relational issues? You have just taken the first courageous step toward healing. Life can be difficult to navigate and we all need support, to feel like we are a priority, & hav...
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