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
I wholeheartedly believe that everybody needs somebody in their lives that makes them feel less alone. I strive to create a warm, supportive and safe atmosphere throughout the process of building our therapeutic relationship. My aspiration is to encourage necessary risk taking throughout the therapy process, nurture genuine vulnerability and walk with clients towards experiencing what it feels...
I believe life is more about the journey than the destination, and I am here to help you have a serene and joyful journey no matter the obstacles you face. I strive to create a therapeutic safe space for you to process your thoughts and emotions, while also helping you heal and become the best version of yourself. Opening up to a stranger can be scary. I believe in the importance of trust and...
COVID 19 Update - We are all worried and struggling to find a sense of balance and normalcy during this COVID 19 pandemic. This is a perfect time to make use of your support systems. I am offering Executive Function Support Coaching, Parenting Support to everyone, and therapy or coaching for those who live in MA, NH, and ME on a sliding scale. The first introductory session is FREE. I look forw...
Deciding to seek therapy can seem overwhelming and yet could be the most important decision you make for yourself and your loved ones. Facing our fears and recognizing we need help facing life’s challenges is the first step in healing our wounded self or our dysfunctional family interactions. I see this desire to change or get to the root of our difficulties as a sign of mental health, not as...
Ever wonder how you got to this point? We all have expectations on what we thought life would be like. Sometimes the decisions we make and must face can be overwhelming and life changing. For many, the decision to enter therapy is one of the hardest. However, you are not alone. Trusting a professional to help you through this difficult time may be scary and intimidating. I have had the pleasure...
Welcome to Soul Shine Child & Family Therapy! My name is Emmie Perry & I am so grateful for the opportunity to share my life’s mission with you & your family. Soul Shine is a safe & playful space for children, along with their caregivers, to connect, integrate & shine. I work from a holistic, systemic & strengths-based approach to facilitate secure attachment, growth & healing within the...
I specialize in working with children demonstrating challenging behaviors and feelings at home or school, including difficulty following directions, emotional dysregulation, self-esteem concerns, and interpersonal conflict. I use an individualized and strengths-based approach with all my clients to ensure both child and parent feel understood. My various experiences in both intensive and long-t...
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Registered Expressive Arts Therapist practicing in Wellesley, MA. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, and behavioral patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a meaningful and fulfilling life. My approach is eclectic and I draw on many different techniques to meet the needs of the...
I am excited to work with clients of any population. As a veteran, I have experience working with the military, substance abuse, PTSD, and anxiety. My current areas of interest include anxiety, depression, substance abuse, personality disorders, and family or couples therapy. I also have a particular passion for working with adolescents and young adults struggling with behavioral problems and...
Today, you are one step closer to a more resilient you, where you feel empowered and on a progressive path to growth and well-being. My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating! At some point, we all face challenges and life transitions but you can learn to build upon strengths to attain the personal growth you are committed to achieving. Here is...
Life can be filled of wonderful things and also many things that cause stress. Sometimes it can be hard to take time for yourself when the demands of others are in the forefront of your life. With a masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a Holistic Specialization from Lesley University, I understand the connection between the mind and body and how stress can take a toll on our physic...
As a client-centered therapist, I believe you are the expert in your own life. I consider it to be a privilege and blessing to be a part of your journey to find fulfillment in your life. I work from a holistic framework, holding the central hypothesis that every person has the innate potential for personal awareness and growth. I strive to maintain the creative and dynamic process of therapy...
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. Most people view therapy as a one sided conversation, with minimal opportunity for interaction. I want to help you accomplish whatever solutions and life changes you are seeking while enjoying the process as much as possible. Simply put, therapy does not always have to be a painful experience. Reaching out to ...
As an active therapist, I help individuals, couples, families, and children identify and transform the story that has been governing their life. It is my belief, that with the right support everyone has the innate capability to show up and transform their life. Past or present circumstances may have created pain or a belief of powerlessness, but these circumstances do not define you. You can...
