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 specialize in working with teens and young adults looking for relief from depression, anxiety, trauma, self-injury and other self-sabotaging behaviors. I often work with clients in life transition, school issues, new careers, communication skills and relationship struggles. I work along-side my clients to collaboratively and empathetically encourage personal growth and allow clients to thrive...
Ruth Saperstein is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in working with couples and individuals. Ruth works with couples with relationship issues, and Individuals with anxiety and OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder). Ruth is also experienced in the treatment of struggling adolescents. Ruth is highly trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, Acceptance and...
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I am a therapist of color with 7+ years of experience as a Smith College Counseling Services staff therapist where I treat traditional-age students, Ada Comstock Scholars and graduate students and supervise MSW interns. My experience includes work in a community mental health outpatient clinic and as a crisis clinician in the Northampton area. I also provide clinical consultation to Smith Schoo...
I believe all individuals have an untold story within, and there is no greater honor as a therapist than to both hear and hold their story and pain with them. I am a collaborative therapist who believes in clients' autonomy and views clients as the experts of their own lives. Through a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and...
I have been in private practice in Burlintgon, Vermont, since 1989. Using a psychodynamic approach, I work with individuals and couples to find the right balance within themselves and in relationship with others. While holding their own needs with compassion, clients explore troubling emotions and behavior through Dialogue Therapy, Non-violent Communication, Mindfulness practice, Expressive Art...
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Relationships are challenging! Negative cycles can leave you feeling confused, overwhelmed, unfulfilled, and hopeless. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe we all have the resources to work through challenging life events. I work with couples on improving communication and connection as well infidelity and sexual issues. I also work with individuals looking to heal from traumatic event...
You may be ready to take a courageous first step and choose a therapist for your needs. I treat your concerns in a non-judgmental environment of respect and confidentiality. I am certified in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This type of approach helps to better understand how your thoughts contribute to behaviors that may lead to emotional distress. CBT is effective to help anxiety, fears,...
we all could benefit from a better understanding of ourselves and others. Unfortunately some times we could use a guide on this journey of discovery. By understanding our past and our present we can work toward a healthier and happier future. People are not things that can be broken or fixed. We are all unique and dynamic individuals who sometimes could use a helping hand. I Believe that 90% of...
Justine Astacio, LMHC, Founder of Lotus Theory has created a custom fit formula that assist client's with achieving holistic health and overall balance. I encourage clients to sustain their balance by incorporating everything they love, while maintaining a total body healthy lifestyle. It is important to remember that the relationship between our mind and body is constant and cyclical. Theories...
****AT THIS TIME, I AM NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS**** My ideal client is a person or family who is seeking change and who is looking for a therapist with an energetic, actively-involved, solution-focused style. When working with children, I use play therapy and will invite parents to play with us while teaching them what I'm doing and why I'm doing it. I will also teach the parents how to reinforce...
Are you a complete mess? Are stress, anxiety, and frustration draining you? I get it! Coping is challenging and can leave you feeling lost, exhausted and even hopeless. There is hope. My job is to walk alongside you on the journey back to a stronger, better you. I commend you for taking the first step in reclaiming your life. Counseling offers a safe place to receive the support you need to tak...
I am multi-faceted and have the ability to work with various diagnoses and behavioral concerns including schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. I believe everyone has the ability to reach their goals and transcend to whoever or whatever they choose. I am committed to assist with finding strength, personal resources and empowerment to get wherever you want to go... A few of therapeutic mod...
