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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I am passionate about helping Iowa children, adults and families find their path to hope and healing. I provide clients with a safe, nonjudgmental therapy space where they can feel comfortable building the skills they need to thrive and take care of their mental health. Together, we build a treatment plan that works best for them and help clients achieve their personal goals. I have experience...
Everyday life can be difficult. Even more so when you are feeling anxious, depressed, confused, overwhelmed, or defeated. I welcome the opportunity to help you navigate struggles to feel happier and more fulfilled. Whatever your struggle may be, from anxiety or depression, to a difficulty with relationships and coping with everyday life, I am here to help. I strive to create a space where clien...
Life can throw us some curve balls that can really make us feel like we’re stuck with no way out. Annelise believes that, with some guidance and work, that “stuck” feeling can change. By using a mix of techniques from Emotion-Focused, Strategic, Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, and Structural Therapy, she believes she can help her clients achieve their goals and grow as individuals and/o...
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