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
Note: I am not currently accepting new clients. What is it like to be you? My approach lies in creating a meaningful relationship with my client where there is security and openness to fully explore areas of difficulty, pain, joy, and growth. Together, we can discuss and problem-solve around concerns of disconnection, anxiety and depression, trauma, identity and self-worth, and transition/loss...
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As a therapist, I am focused on providing a safe and comfortable environment for you in an effective way that helps to facilitate change and healing It is my belief that the combination of a trusting relationship paired with an empathetic and interactive approach can create a platform for personal growth that can allow you to reach your individualized goals. My role in this therapeutic process ...
Acacia Counseling and Wellness is a leading provider of outpatient, university mental health support. We specialize in providing high quality mental health services to university students, faculty and staff, as well as the greater community. Our office is conveniently located near UC Santa Cruz, and our therapists are trained across a variety of issues and modalities. We also now provide...
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I am dedicated to meeting people where they are at and helping them achieve their goals. I have experience working with children, adults, and families on a variety of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting, behavior difficulties, and life stress/transitions. I integrate DBT/CBT and play/art therapy informed treatments into my work with clients. I am a licensed clinical social...
Many people seek therapy because they have reached a point where they feel stuck, frustrated, ashamed, or lost and are unsure of what the solution is. This can be an exhausting and frightening place to be. Whether these feelings result from addiction, anxiety, depression, family issues, or life's transitions, there is hope for navigating and overcoming these challenges. I provide therapy in a...
