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
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!!! I graduated from Monmouth University with a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in addictions counseling. I have experience with a diverse population of clients with various backgrounds; I have worked with individuals (preteens to adults), groups, families and couples. I have an eclectic approach to counseling and utilize differe...
Our mission is to create Psychological wellness and healing. Supporting individuals and families growth and empowerment toward better health. Our practice provides specialized individual and group therapy for Anxiety, Self- Esteem, Behavioral Disorders and Social Emotional functioning. Our groups consist of Adolescents, children and adults. Groups are typically held weekly between four and six...
Welcome! I provide a safe and accepting environment in which you can work through difficult changes, choices, and life events. Life can be hard and can feel overwhelming at times. My goal is to help you develop your inner resources and build upon your strengths. I enjoy helping individuals to realize their worth and cope with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, parenting, low...
I am an advocate for social justice and aspire to reduce stigma related to mental health disorders. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or a life transition, therapy can work for you. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy and my goal is to support you in your journey back to wholeness, healing, and personal growth. You have a voice that deserves to be heard and st...
I work with a wide range of people. My clients like deep work, As a Process Oriented therapist and teacher I use dreamwork, symptoms work, bodywork, movement, relationship work, conflict work, inner work and meditation, art and creativity, and many other methods based on the individuals client's process. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped develop Process Oriented fami...
I've been a practicing counselor for over 10 years. I received my bachelor's degree in Sociology from California State University Fullerton, my master's degree from Montana State University in Marriage and Family Therapy, and I am currently a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Montana in Counselor Education and Supervision. I am a 19-year member of the Montana Air National Guard. I specialize...
My expertise is coming along side individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma - from sexual abuse and assault to traumatic grief and loss to complex trauma. One might feel everything all at once or nothing at all. On the outside, it may seem like everything is fine - you are successful and have it together but on the inside, you might be falling apart or carrying an unbearable weig...
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I am a client centered and solution focused helper with years of experience working with children and family, life span issues related to life transitions to include relationship issues, grief and loss, as well as court mandated services. Provide clinical therapy to clients seeking counseling with children and families, life span adjustment and difficulties, as well as court mandated services. ...
Elizabeth provides a safe place and recovery focused space for LGBTQIA+, teens, college students, women, men, and families. Elizabeth challenges and aids in the implementation of each client’s goals and aspirations for their growth process. She empowers her clients to not only live independently, but successfully. Elizabeth serves individuals and their families by addressing disordered eating,...
Skip's ideal client is not determined by their diagnosis, problems, or goals. Rather, it is someone who may be afraid or angry, but is still WILLING - because they are tired of hurting and struggling, and want their life to change. With a primary focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy concentrating in Mindfulness, clients are able to process the experiences from their life on deeper and more...
It is a courageous step to commit to the process of therapy and put your trust in a therapist. Critical factors in choosing a therapist include that person’s training, life experiences, and years of professional practice. Clients need a therapist who is empathic and caring, yet also someone who is going to be direct and honest with them. I am a retired Professor of Counseling with over 40 years...
Life can be an emotional roller coaster, and sometimes we feel stuck, out of control, or hopeless. We can feel inadequate and misunderstood.. What makes us successful are the coping skills we learn to use, the ability to set boundaries, and proper communication. Together, we will create a plan to address what’s holding you back, and at the same time enhance your strengths. I prefer to meet with...
You're facing overwhelming challenges. You work hard to ensure everyone else is happy. You take care of everyone at your expense. You work relentlessly to keep up appearances. You’re always exhausted, often crying alone in the shower. You constantly walk on eggshells, tension is always building, you're constantly alert waiting for the next argument or incident. You're turning into the person yo...
