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 believe that understanding and accepting yourself is the key to healthy living. Becoming your own best friend will solicit healthy relationships and habits in all aspects of your life. I have helped individuals, couples, and families navigate through life's inevitable curves by challenging negative thought patterns and incorporating more understanding and compassion into their lives. Let me h...
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination” (Carl Rogers).I believe that therapy is the key in that process and I want to be there to provide you with that positive support and collaboration. I am passionate about working together to help you build on your strengths and become the best version of yourself. As a licensed clinical social worker, I...
**My practice is currently full. Accepting clients for a waitlist.** You are here because maybe something is not quite right in your life. You may be dealing with a major life transition or feeling overwhelmed with life challenges. Maybe there is pain from the past or worries of the future holding you back from living a balanced and fulfilling life. Seeking help is a brave step. My goal as a...
You may be considering therapy because you feel stuck or dissatisfied with some parts of your life. I am deeply invested in creating a therapeutic relationship that balances safety and connection with appropriate challenge. You can count on careful attention to your inner world as we explore the concerns that trouble you. I am genuine, warm, and collaborative. As someone who believes in the...
Perhaps you are seeking therapy for yourself due to issues related to anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, or self-esteem. Perhaps you are seeking therapy for your child because they don't listen, have social difficulties, are anxious, or angry. Or perhaps you are a couple needing help with communication. I am here to help. I strive to understand your experience and create a safe space...
My personal belief regarding the therapeutic process is that the client is the expert on their own lives, and it is my responsibility to create a safe and supportive environment in which to grow a collaborative therapeutic relationship. I have been developing my therapeutic style over the past few years, and I have come to practice from a narrative lens while incorporating emotion-focused...
My therapeutic style is influenced by solution focused brief therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, existential therapy, and positive psychology. I work primarily with trauma, anxiety and focus related issues, with individuals and families. Areas of expertise include: • Addiction & Recovery • Grief & Loss • Relationships & Connection • Trauma & Resilience • Spiritual & Existential Questioning •...
Hi! My name is Alexandra Zelek, I am a limited licensed mental health therapist at a private practice called the Galvin Growth Group in Novi, Michigan. I have had the privilege of working with a large variety of clients with many different backgrounds, struggles, diagnoses, needs, and goals. I specialize in working with youth, teen, and adult clients with mental health disorders, behavioral...
I want to work with anyone who has the goal of simply wanting to feel better than they do right now. Not feeling our emotional best is exhausting, and can lead to physical health decline, so it is worth the effort to try to feel better. The causes for not feeling our best can be for any of the reasons listed on the lower right ("issues") or, more often, unknown. I will listen to you and help yo...
Can you pinpoint the thought that spirals into feelings of hopelessness? Can you recognize the point you start judging yourself in a conversation and start feeling down on yourself? I will teach you to become a master of catching and destroying these thoughts. I am here to help you navigate through the journey of improving your mental health. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, art therapy, cop...
"Out of your vulnerabilities will come your strength.” This quote by Sigmund Freud exemplifies what therapy means to me and it's an honor to be a part of your healing journey. During this unprecedented and frightening time I am also available for TELEHEALTH sessions in order to limit everyone's exposure to COVID-19 while still providing essential mental health services. Therapy is a dynamic,...
I provide compassionate psychological services to adults and teens, specializing in anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, and relationships. Sometimes life is really hard and we get stuck in the way we think, feel, and act; or we struggle to cope with what life has thrown at us. My approach is to help you feel heard and partner with you to develop new ways to see yourself and the world...
Here at Mettle Works Behavioral Services, LLC, we offer an array of therapeutic interventions. These include individual psychotherapy, couples, families, small businesses, non profits, & corporations personalized consultation services. The purpose of the consultation is to determine which service or level of care is most appropriate. At Mettle Works, we offer individualized personal coaching,...
With over 20 years of experience, I create a safe environment to be heard, accepted and challenged for true growth and happiness. My passion is working with families, along with parents struggling with daily parenting and those with relationship issues. With a strong background in treating those with addictive behaviors, such as substance use, disordered eating, gaming, and relationship...
During these times of transitions we offer TeleHealth services through online interactions. Breathe, you are not alone. Sometimes you just need someone to hear you. I'm here to listen and assist you with the issues you are experiencing. I have a passion for helping people learn to cope with and overcome the issues that are hindering their lives. In my experience with children, teens, and adults...
