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
Life is all about relationships; the one we have with ourselves and those with others. Relationships can be messy and complicated. I find great satisfaction in helping clients move beyond the mess and find restoration. What may seem insurmountable at the time can become attainable as one heals past hurts, gains knowledge and insight and learns new skills in a supportive and encouraging...
OFFERING ONLINE COUNSELING SERVICES. I am a bilingual SPANISH/ENGLISH counselor committed to helping individuals and families accomplish goals. My clinical focus is working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing a varied of emotional, relational and systemic difficulties leading to anxiety, depression adjustment issues, trauma related complaints and behavioral misconduct at school....
Are you a high-functioning woman or pregnant or postpartum woman who typically "has it all together," yet is struggling underneath the surface? Do you find yourself easily overwhelmed with stress, anxiety, or other overwhelming emotions? Maybe you struggle seeking out support, even during times of challenge. You're ready to feel at peace and to know your worth; I'm here to recognize your unique...
*** Not accepting new patients*** I always strive to create a therapeutic environment that is accepting, challenging, and conducive for change. Therapy is a process that is unique for each individual. I feel passionate about understanding what each person’s journey has been, and how counseling will interact with their needs and goals. I feel my talents are especially useful when working with...
Dr. Laura Garrison is an author, educator and Holistic Health Practitioner with over two decades of experience working with challenged and at-risk populations. With a Doctorate in Holistic Health, Laura specializes in integrative yoga-based therapeutics with emphasis on restorative modalities. She is certified as an Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist, as a Yoga Therapist by the International...
Currently a doctoral candidate at Adler University, pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education & Supervision, Claudia Hernandez holds a degree in Master of Art in Counseling, with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adler University. Her counseling experience has been in both inpatient and outpatient settings, with experience in working with mild to severe...
Being unable to meet our goals is disappointing. Not knowing why is devastating. We seek answers on the outside and look to others for the "right" and the "wrong" of the situation, but everyone is different. Everyone has different approaches, and everyone has inner resources. The problem is not that you are flawed, incapable, or unable to achieve your goals. The problem is that you're simply...
( English | español ) Societal norms, social oppression, and even loved ones can contribute to us feeling like we are not enough. This can have a significant impact on our thoughts and feelings about ourselves, and our negative automatic thoughts can be persistent and isolating. They can affect the way we approach others and how we navigate the world. I strive to create a warm, affirming, and...
*Not Accepting New Clients - I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing at Grow Well Cleveland, LLC. I am a graduate of Cleveland State University, and earned my Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I believe therapeutic counseling offers space for those seeking to make changes in their personal lives. Committed to providing specific care for each individual's unique need...
It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to reach out and ask for help when struggling or suffering in life, so I want to acknowledge that you have taken a very brave first step by looking into therapy and prioritizing your mental health. If you feel stuck or lost in your life, you do not have to do this on your own! Therapeutic relationships can be truly life changing and transformative. I...
Congratulations on taking this step in your journey of wellness. I look forward to having the pleasure of walking alongside you in this journey of empowerment! My background has been in in home services, specifically in foster care and adoptions. I have had the opportunity to work in diverse populations, including Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County treating depression, anxiety, bipolar, moo...
One of the biggest challenges in the journey toward personal fulfillment is feeling as though our needs are not being met. It can be overwhelming when trying to figure out how to make effective changes in our lives and reach our goals. As a firm believer that people need people, I am passionate in providing services to individuals who are ready to take the vulnerable, yet courageous step in...
Life can be a lot of things. Sometimes that's a variety of emotions or thought processes that are far from ideal and moving forward seems impossible. My approach to therapy is that we are collaborators, working toward the resolution you see for yourself. My areas of specialty include trauma and anxiety. I offer a diverse set of interventions pulled from an eclectic knowledge of theory in mental...
Access what you need personally or for your relationship through secure video conferencing with Relationship Intelligence Online! In person options also available. Online services include individual and marital therapy, relationship workshops, and emotional consultations. All services are tailored to your specific goals and needs related to the following: deepening relational connection,...
I am an Associate Professional Counselor at Center Point GA, Inc. in Oakwood/Flowery Branch, GA. I am warm, compassionate, and dedicated to helping people overcome life’s many challenges. I earned my Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from Georgia Gwinnett College and Master’s of Science in Clinical Counseling Psychology from Brenau University. I specialize in anxiety, depression, interpersona...
