What is Emotionally Focused Therapy?

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

Lindsey Hall-Menendez

Phoenix

Arizona

I OFFER IN-PERSON AND TELEHEALTH SESSIONS! Whether you feel like you’re struggling with handling your emotions, experiencing contention, have feelings of being stuck, or if you just want to see change in your life, a fulfilling path is possible for you. My goal is to make therapy a safe place where closeness, trust, joy, fulfillment, and authenticity can be built in the way you need it. I work...
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Lisa J Pierce

Seattle

Washington

Have you ever wondered why a misunderstanding or hurtful experience with someone important in your life produces such strong, painful emotions? Do you have memories of past traumatic experiences pop up and bite you on a regular basis? Would you like to have more fulfilling relationships? If your answer to any of these questions is “Yes,” I specialize in relationships and trauma. Relationships a...
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 10+ years of experience in the mental health field. I am specially trained and certified to treat clients with Tic/Tourette's Disorder by using CBIT for therapy interventions. I gained this certification in 2017 through the Tourette's Association of America. I specialize in ODD, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Trauma, PTSD, Adjustment...
My name is Shannon (she/her/hers). I believe in the power of hope and in trusting our inner wisdom to guide us through everyday life. I have a heart for working with individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing transition(s), with specialized training and experience working with adolescents and adults. I am genuinely honored to accompany people as they find their way through a wide...

Shelise Decal

San Diego

California

Humans have a biological need to feel safe and worthy of love. In a world that repeatedly invalidates sensitivity and vulnerability, it’s not surprising that many of us struggle to feel happy, attain goals and find fulfilling romantic relationships. Some of us turn to substances, while others over function. If we are parents, we may find that we accidently repeat hurtful dynamics with our own...
Hi, I'm Jeffrey Spike, AKA Spike the Psych. I have been a licensed educational psychologist since 2012, while working full time for LAUSD. I was the recipient of the Los Angeles Association of School Psychologists (LAASP) Outstanding Psychologist of the Year award. With 14 years of experience as a psycho-educational assessor, Spike the Psych has successfully identified the primary strengths and...
As a pre-licensed therapist who has experience in many areas within counseling, my hope is to always help the patient know that they are accepted. Patients can know that they are safe and protected within our therapeutic alliance. I will make every effort to remain ethical and lead the patient in a positive and effective journey that will benefit their life. My hope is to prioritize the patient...
One of the amazing aspects of therapy is that it provides a unique opportunity for people to have a space where the focus is on their needs and growth. Very few other spaces exist where your needs and well-being can be the priority. This is a key part of the healing power of therapy, which is why I believe it is so important you find a therapist who is a good fit for you. [DURING COVID-19: I am...
Do you feel like you need to take a closer look at your life? Maybe something doesn't feel quite right, and you're looking for guidance to identify and overcome that challenge. Therapy with me is a process which involves examining your feelings and experiences to illuminate a path to a better quality of life. Getting the help you need through therapy can be courageous and empowering. It would b...
I have been in private practice since 2005. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, brief solution therapy, mood disorders, behavior modification, anxiety, personality disorders, grief & loss, addiction, postpartum issues, divorce/blended families, & also have a therapy dog for those that may be fearful of starting therapy or have difficulty engaging in sessions....

Vieve Pritchard

Portland

Oregon

I believe that we as individuals inherently hold the wisdom of who we are and what we need. As life happens we can forget the powerful beings we innately are and lose our sense of self. Sometimes we may fragment parts of ourselves due to relationships, insecurities, societal expectations, trauma and more. My goal is to create a warm and trusting environment to help you gain insight into why you...
Although we share many commonalities, humans are quite complex and unique - I help Clients discover who they are, who they want to be and how to work towards improving their life experience on the journey toward becoming their best self. At this time I am not accepting new Clients; please see our practice website to connect with another therapist. Soy un hablante nativo de Español. Trabajaremos...
I am an over 50 years young, divorced, faith based, a confidential and compliant, clinical counselor and breast cancer survivor, with a successful new private practice, in the DMV ( District of Columbia and Maryland). I welcome clergy, celebrities, and the very special everyday client, that simply needs someone to talk too. Talk To Me Inc is here...to help and respectfully help and empower the...

Zhanna Gerlovina

Brooklyn

New York

My goal is to help people learn to trust themselves - to find mental and emotional clarity amongst deeply ingrained "shoulds" and "musts". My therapeutic style is warm, genuine, open and interactive. If you are trying to change a pattern or unhealthy cycle, I can help you explore underlying beliefs and narratives. And then, we can work at your pace to explore solutions to change and grow. In...