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
Thank you for viewing my profile. Whether this is the first time you are seeking therapy or you are thinking about returning after a long hiatus, the idea of finding a therapist can be daunting. The experience of therapy is highly personal and it is important to find someone who feels like a good fit. I value the importance of creating a safe and warm environment that fosters growth through...
Hello! My name is Ameera Khan. I have my Master’s in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in children and adolescents from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. My particular area of expertise is working with children and adolescents to improve any presenting behavioral or social skills related issues through both individual, and group therapy. I have also worked with families, a...
As an Associate Professional Clinical Counselor and EMDR trained therapist, I understand life can become challenging. It is helpful to have a safe, confidential place to work through any challenges that may arise; Issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, relational issues, substance use and more can interfere with everyday living.. Balancing life often leaves us depleted and a...
I am trained in several different therapeutic approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, person-centered therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, etc. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults. I utilize a holistic approach by exploring and educating clients about emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing. I have a...
The clinicians in the institute's SF office consist of licensed psychologists and post-doctoral candidate. We specialize in depth psychologies, using a combination of psychodynamic, relational, humanistic, multicultural and, in the case of children, play therapy approaches. We believe that each individual, couple or family brings with them their unique experiences and philosophies and we prefer...
Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient, individualized, psychological care. We treat a number of mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. Our counseling focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space,...
Pain is an experience that can feel scary, isolating, and everlasting. Whether it be emotional, physical, mental, or relational, pain takes on many forms and can disguise itself in different ways. Has a painful event left you feeling overwhelmed? Are you, or somebody you know, battling with a serious medical condition? Do you face challenges in life that leave you feeling stuck? I have extensi...
James Baldwin said, “Love takes off masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within.” Do you yearn for connection, to have a community of loved ones, however large or small? You are not alone. Each of us desires connection, and yet trauma and broken relationships between loved ones often get in the way - this brokenness can affect our closest, most intimate relationship...
I want to help you along your path of self-discovery and growth. Starting therapy can be tricky, but I am a compassionate and kind therapist who will do my best to help you feel at ease about this process. My background in social work helps me immensely in looking for and enhancing your strengths and creating treatment plans to help you reach your goals. We all go through challenging times, and...
You are worth it! I am a firm believer that everyone can benefit from therapy. While some may say that it is a source of weakness; I consider it a great feat of strength and bravery. Not everyone is willing to face their fears and dig deep into their emotions to tackle the difficulties that come with life. Reaching out can be your first step on the path to a happier and healthier life. I offer...
My name is Scott Graybow. I am a psychotherapist with over 14 years of clinical experience and extensive post-graduate training. I welcome the opportunity to help you work on the issues that bring you to therapy. I understand therapy to be a cooperative effort in which we work together to help you engage with your mind, your environment, and your relationships. Therapy is pragmatic yet deeply...
As a doctor of clinical psychology, I work with clients to provide an open, safe, non-judgmental environment in which we work together to improve their lives. Together, clients and I set individualized goals, complete an individualized treatment, and focus on the most effective and up-to-date treatment methods for any problems that clients may be experiencing. I am a professor at OSU and have...
From an early age I have had a passion for people that has driven me to engage people in the world they live in. I have a deep desire to help others find hope and healing as they deal with the struggles of life. Throughout my life I have pursued numerous ways to engage people in developing hope and healing, and it is through counseling that I have found that I can help others navigate the...
Are you feeling overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained, stuck and you don’t know what to do or where to turn next? Moving forward can sometimes feel daunting but you can do it. Begin to take back your power today! You can learn to manage the chaos, calm those defeating thoughts, ease the tension in your body and begin to feel positive. Your story has a purpose and is as unique as you a...
Hi. My name is Garrett, and it's brave of you to reach out. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I provide services for Illinois residents by phone, online, and in office (Lincolnwood, IL). In therapy, my goal is to foster a safe environment for which we can develop a trusting relationship to help face your opportunities for growth. One of the greatest tools in therapy is the client-therapis...
