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
There is a special place in my heart for helping people who have been hurt by life events. Most of us want to forget or bury the painful memories, and yet by sharing these stories one can open the door to healing. I feel honored to bear witness as individuals bravely tell their stories and reclaim their personal power. I have almost 20 years of experience with EMDR, Sexual Assault, Abuse, PTSD,...
Life can feel very overwhelming for a variety of reasons. Have you found yourself thinking "it would be nice to talk to someone", but have reservations? I have lots of experience working with people who have depression, anxiety, past issues or trauma, relationship struggles or fears, peer or family conflict, parenting struggles etc. Have you lost someone due to substance use or in love with an...
I am the owner and psychotherapist at Essential Therapy Chicago. I've had years of experience helping clients grow and find emotional healing in private practice settings. In my work, I aim to create an open, welcoming therapy environment where clients feel empowered to make positive changes in their personal lives and relationships. I work with clients to identify their strengths and to set go...
WBC Counseling is a privately owned company of experienced and diverse mental health professionals. What really sets us apart is our focus on including the entire support team in the treatment process to encourage more immediate and lasting change. We do that by providing on-site behavioral modification sessions for our clients. Our caring, qualified and experienced therapists take the time to...
My training as a mental health professional has taught me to be highly attuned to individuals needs, with a strong desire to help my clients overcome difficulties. Being knowledgeable about a number of treatment modalities is essential. I specialize in treating symptoms without focusing on labels. I know asking for help can be challenging. I aim to build and maintain positive and effective...
We are a group of licensed Mental Health Clinicians and provide high quality psychotherapy and counseling services. Dedicated to the total well being of all clients, we help to foster awareness of core issues and recurring themes. We blend traditional psychotherapy with trauma treatment, such as EMDR, hypnotherapy, yoga therapy and energy healing. This holistic and comprehensive approach...
My work focuses on helping clients heal from relational trauma. Most of my clients have experienced some trauma in their lives from abuse, assault, bullying, or breakdowns in parental or romantic relationships. My other specialties include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and spiritual health. I want clients to be free from shame, negative self-beliefs, and emotional pain. I aim to hel...
I believe in the fundamental wholeness of all people, in mind/body/spirit connection, and in the desire and capacity of all of us to grow and heal. My purpose is to guide, support and empower you to find your strengths and personal resources for your own best solutions. All of us do experience hard times in life. With a broader and experienced outside perspective, you can overcome obstacles and...
Through conversations, the possibilities for new solutions to a client’s identified problems are opened and explored. Clients are the experts in their own lives and through the stories that are shared, clients are able to co-create new possibilities for moving forward. As a therapist, I encourage clients to develop greater self-awareness and mental wellness through their life experiences; throu...
Everyone needs help sometimes. Life comes with challenges and finding support is important in order to face them, especially when the challenges feel like more than we can handle on our own. I truly believe that every person has the strength they need to face these challenges with the right support in place. I am here to offer whatever support is needed: a safe place to freely speak your mind...
Welcome! My practice is focused on providing you with the skills you need, as well as a judgment-free space to process your thoughts and emotions. I work with patients who want personalized therapy focused on their individual needs. Many of my patients report issues of anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I also provide psychological testing for those who may need accommodations in school or at work....
It is okay to not be okay! Whether it be depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma or life transitions, we can create a space for healing to begin. As a therapist, my goals are to have a space of nonjudgement to help you feel supported, heard and validated. Through demonstrating compassion and helping you develop self-compassion, I hope to help people find a happier and more fulfilling life. To do...
**DUE TO COVID19, I AM OFFERING TELE-THERAPY WITH SLIDING SCALE OPTIONS. SESSION PRICES CAN BE DISCUSSED BASED ON TEMPORARY CIRCUMSTANCES IF NEED BE.** We all have stories, narratives, truths. The way we interpret and experience the world is unique to each individual. It’s about understanding how the fabric of your life is woven and can be potentially rewoven. It is nearly impossible to avoid...
When you're struggling with an issue that's causing you pain, you want a therapist who will make you feel comfortable, and provide you a safe healing space. Every day, I help people work through childhood issues, trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and emotional baggage they've carrying around for years. Many people allow the wounds of childhood, caused by adverse childhood events, hold them back...
I am a Resident in Counseling approved by the Virginia Board of Counseling working towards Licensure. I am currently under the supervision of Marla Peyser, LPC. I am also a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. I have worked in outpatient, hospital, and college settings with teens, young adults, and adults. I have worked with individuals experiencing substance use, abuse struggles, trauma, stres...
