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* In the course of your life, you may have internalized negative beliefs or thoughts about yourself. You may be tired of feeling like no one sees the real you. You may be exhausted of having to live a facade in front of others. You might be wanting to get rid of some of the unhealthy patterns you've been repeating, and you feel ready now for a change. You have come to the...
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***Update*** I am not accepting new clients at this time. Perhaps, you are facing a time in your life where your current reality or past experiences are getting in the way of living the life you desire. Maybe, you are feeling overwhelmed and stuck in anxiety, depression and want relief and freedom. Are you looking for support as you grieve the losses and challenges of life? Do you desire closen...
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Kristen brings a sense of calm and genuine attention to each session; allowing you to feel welcomed and at ease. She ensures that your individual needs are cared for within a thoughtful and compassionate space where you will to be heard and understood. Together, you and Kristen will uncover and bolster your unique strengths that will empower you to both heal and thrive. With the acknowledgement...
**** We offer Telehealth and accept Medi-cal & Partnership*** I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Shasta County. I work with people of all ages and strive to create supportive and validating relationships while we explore and identify useful skills and understandings to achieve your therapy goals. My specialties include: depression, anxiety and panic disorder...
I have deep respect for each person’s unique life journey. Because of this, I practice with a strengths-based, client-centered approach. During sessions, I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can talk through their challenges and work towards practical solutions that make sense to them. In addition to working towards practical solutions, when appropriate, I also try to...
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**Accepting New Clients-Immediate Openings for video and tele-counseling** The corona-virus has swooped in and changed the landscape of our daily lives. If you are experiencing acute stress related to this, I will be providing short term counseling as needed for anxiety that arises out of the uncertainty we all are now facing. At the same time, if you struggle with anxiety, depression or more...
The Passages Counseling Program is not accepting new clients at this time. Our specialty is helping those who are experiencing a difficult life transition or struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety or grief. Trained EMDR Therapists have the tools to assist with intrusive thoughts or traumatic memories that interfere with finding happiness in life. We are experienced grief therapists for tho...
Skilled in counseling children, adolescents, adults and families impacted by legal involvement with DCF, probation, the Courts (including divorce, custody & visitation), criminal and civil proceedings, domestic violence and employment issues. Education and training in law & psychology, I see my role as a counselor to assist others in creating stability and/or healthy relationships with self and...
Whether a child, adolescent, teen, or adult- life can present its own sets of challenges. Oftentimes, these challenges evoke feelings such as anxiety, anger, self-doubt, lack of control, shame, guilt, and sadness. Yet, for some individuals it may show up as physical body pains or unexplained changes in behavior. It can get messy, right? My goal is to hold a space where clients can gain more...
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming sometimes, so congratulations on taking the first steps towards a better you! Therapy is a wonderful way to learn self care and introspection, and I’m excited to help you on your journey. I’ve always been curious and interested in how the brain works. It fascinates me how this organ is capable of so many functions, some of which are still unknown. This...
