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
**CURRENTLY ONLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS WITH DAYTIME AVAILABILITY** Kristen is a LCPC and Clinical Supervisor at Anchor Counseling Centers in the Sykesville office. As a therapist, Kristen creates an environment for genuine connection and growth by promoting open communication, honesty, and trust in the therapeutic process. Kristen prefers to be direct with her clients but also appreciates humor in...
Hi there, I'm elated to see you make your move towards health and well-being; I hope to be a part of that journey, no matter how small. Therapy is both challenging and rewarding in all its fullness. In the foundation of our work together, I help you in becoming present, empowered, self-aware, a better communicator, connective, and in tune with the truth of who you are -- whether you choose to...
I have been working in the Mental Health field for the past 12 years. I have training in Case Management, Rehabilitation, and I am now a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Oklahoma. I have worked with children from the age of 4 years old to adult, individually, families, and couples. I work with a range of symptoms from anxiety to trauma to major depression. I truly enjoy...
Life transitions and relationships can be both beautiful and difficult. Everyone deserves a safe space to share and explore their thoughts and feelings. Often through reflection, when we allow ourselves to slow down and notice what we are experiencing in the moment, true self discovery and capacity from within can be found and cultivated. With compassion and openness I walk along side my client...
I have been a licensed psychotherapist for over 20 years. I obtained my BA in Psychology from the University of Richmond in 1994 and my Masters in Social Work from the University of Georgia in 1997. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Integrative Behavioral Couples Therapy and have been trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) for Complex Trauma (parts work), Hakomi, Co...
Taking the first step to seek mental health treatment with the social stigma and stereotypes around the world can be challenging in it's itself. Stigma and stereotypes can cause people to not seek help for fear of the unknown and being judged by others. I offer an open safe supportive environment for clients to discuss their issues with out judgment. My goal is to have an open dialogue with...
It's never easy opening up to someone. It's never easy talking about what really matters most. I am multilingual (English, Portuguese and conversational Spanish). My experiences living in Africa, Europe and the USA (moved here in 1997) have fostered my keen appreciation for various teaching, learning, and developmental approaches to counseling/therapy. My counseling style is direct, compassiona...
PRACTICE IS FULL AT THIS TIME. We all face challenges, adversity, and times of significant struggle in our lives. I will offer a supportive relationship as I strive to understand your context, relationships (past and present), and goals. We will work together to find new ways of relating to your thoughts, experiences, and relationships that move you towards your values and goals. We will consid...
**Current moving practices & will not be able to accept new clients until Mid January/February 2021** I specialize in helping individuals cope with anxiety issues (panic, phobias, OCD, & social fears), depression, & relationship issues. I also assist couples with feeling closer & strengthening their bond with one another, even in situations where the trust has been broken. Other focus areas of...
As cliche as it may sound, I often tell my clients that therapy, like many other experiences in life "is what you make it." Some choose to make therapy a place to express strong emotions, resolve relational conflict, or discuss past traumas. Others may make therapy a way to practice applying new skills, reflect on weekly stressors, adjust communication habits, or receive educational information...
If you are seeking direction, clarity or freedom in your workplace, relationships or even within your personal path, allow Begin ANEW to assist you on your journey. When you are at your best, you perform and make decisions at your best and together we can make this happen. My mission is to help you become restored and strengthened in your time of need with a Holistic approach. Because your comf...
Are you exhausted or confused? Perhaps you are experiencing anxiety, sadness, or challenges in your relationships that feel overwhelming. Past pain or trauma can often influence our lives, and sometimes we just need to know we are not alone as we seek emotional healing. As a trained therapist, I focus on joining you on your journey to finding that true self you seek. I have experience working w...
We provide services to all children and adolescents. I specialize in developing individualized therapy for children up to age 18 with behavior problems and emotional concerns. Often times, the behavior of children can lead to a number of problems in the home and the entire family unit creating a sense of stress, anxiety, and tension. Using a behavioral approach, I place an importance on the fam...
