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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Whether you are dealing with a crisis, seeking help for an addiction, or simply would like some guidance and support in our busy and stressful world, I provide a safe and honest space for you to work towards your personal goals, as well as assessment and referral for more intensive services if needed. I specialize in mental health and substance abuse. I use a variety of holistic and evidence-ba...
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I hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Chicago and have more than 25 years experience in the social service/mental health field. I am a Certified Therapist in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, anger issues, ptsd, physical and sexual abuse, neglect, grief and loss. I typically engage in the...
{Not accepting clients at this time; email if you’d like to be added to a waitlist} I am a Baltimore-based psychotherapist treating individuals, couples and families for almost a decade. My expertise is in adjustment and trauma related disorders, mood disorders, and anxiety, particularly in adolescents and young adults. My empathic, creative approach allows me to pay close attention to the...
At The Heights Counseling and Wellness, we understand that the process of wellness can often be a daunting journey. It can feel like you are alone, climbing uphill, without the necessary support to keep moving forward. Whether it's seeking individual counseling during challenging times; desiring to begin a journey of wellness; or looking to support your staff, The Heights Counseling and Wellne...
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or relationship problems? If you are I can help. I offer convenient daytime, evening, and Saturday appointment times. For first time clients I offer a free 20 minute phone or Zoom video consultation. In our sessions I will use evidence based practices to help you overcome the challenges you are facing. We will work together to develop the tools,...
Depression, Anxiety, PTSD/Trauma, Codependency, Substance Abuse, or Alcoholism, causing stumbling blocks? If any of these are issues you would like help addressing, then let's talk. Perhaps PTSD, depression or anxiety are roadblocks in your life. Perhaps you are self medicating with substances to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, or trauma. Or perhaps you are struggling with codependent...
Located on the campus of The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, one of the nation's foremost educators of counselors and psychologists, Interwoven Community Counseling Center offers high-quality, affordable counseling services to the general community at our Merchandise Mart location. Let our expertise help you negotiate personal challenges and life's difficult times. We're here to help...
Are you struggling in your marriage? Are you thinking about getting married and need some guidance to have the marriage you always dreamed about? Has your spouse or significant other cheated? Are you feeling down and you just don't know why? Have you experienced a trauma such as abuse, rape, natural disasters or car wrecks, infidelity? Do you want to be secure in your marriage or relationship?...
I am not currently accepting new patients, however if your need is not imminent I would be happy to add you to my waitlist. We all face challenges throughout our lives that can leave us feeling stuck, distressed, isolated or confused. During these times, therapy can help us to move towards the relief, change, and fulfillment we may be longing for. As a therapist, I strive to meet you wherever y...
