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
Choosing to pursue therapy can be daunting. It takes effort and intention, things that don't come easily when experiencing stress or crisis. I understand this and want to support you in the step you're about to take. Perhaps you'd like to consider the "why's" behind certain decisions, or connect better with significant people in your life. Maybe you're struggling to keep the lid on hurtful or...
Are the things that once made you happy no longer making you happy? Have you been through a frightening experience that left you feeling scared, lonely, or even doubting who you are? Maybe you’ve been through a series of little things that you believe shouldn’t be bothering you, but they are. Do you feel completely misunderstood and alone? As someone who once worked in the Nashville music indus...
Dr. Gabriel has over 30 years of experience working in the mental health field with children, families and adolescents. She provides comprehensive evaluations and works with clients in traditional as well as alternative therapy modalities. Dr. Gabriel is trained to perform QEEG and uses brain mapping to understand and treat symptoms of depression, trauma, executive function and other...
I have 10 years' clinical experience providing individual and couples therapy to adults. Every step we take has its mirror in the brain; in therapy you have a chance to re-write important parts of your story and support to move in new directions. I have extensive experience as a generalist mental health provider, working with anxiety, depression, major life changes, and relationship struggles. ...
I am a passionate licensed mental health counselor that believes in helping others to foster growth and achieve their goals. I believe in taking risks, being vulnerable and shooting big in life. I am trained in both evidence based and person-centered practices. I work with my clients to create a plan for their therapy experience that is meaningful and works towards results. I work with individu...
As a therapist I create a safe and non-judgmental space where you will feel validated and supported. From a collaborative and strength-based approach, I am passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to enrich and deepen their connections to those who matter most. I focus on resolving issues related to breakdowns in communication and life transitions including marriage,...
Welcome. These are strange and anxiety provoking times indeed. Whether you're isolated in your home away from family and loved ones or feeling trapped inside with too many loved ones needing your attention, these days life can feel lonely, confusing, boring, and overwhelming all within a 24 hour span. My goal right now is to help you foster connection, headspace, and some sense of nurturing cal...
North Star Counseling Group was founded on the idea that all people will find themselves in need of guidance and support at some point in their life. Various concerns can lead a person to counseling services. Stephanie Ardagh, LCSW works with children ages 3-18. She is experienced in addressing issues of: self esteem, self injury, body image, school refusal, adjustment to divorce and loss, soci...
I work closely with individuals, couples and groups on issues of stress, relationships and life transitions. My focus is providing a safe and calm, non-judgmental atmosphere that fosters relief, rebalance and resilience for my clients. So many factors go into our stress experience, and I often assist clients with identifying new avenues and solutions to help with next steps forward. Specific...
Hello. Welcome to my section. I have enjoyed helping individuals and families for many years in the sunny Antelope Valley. I work with people who are struggling with mood swings, anxieties or who are just feeling stuck. I use many treatment modalities such as assessment testing, relaxation techniques (and hypnotherapy), family systems, behavioral strategies and cognitive behavioral therapies...
Need urgent work on your relationship? Can't do weekly counseling? Want real answers, not just a listening ear? There's a better way... With an intensive approach... You set aside several days all at once with two professionals to learn principles and tools that would take you 6 months of ordinary couples therapy to learn. You complete clinical assessments before we meet to immediately have an...
Do you find yourself struggling to communicate clearly with your loved ones? Do you ever feel like you or your partner lack the skills or tools needed to be happy or successful in a relationship? Well, you are not alone, and there is hope! Deeper emotional connection comes as a result of vulnerability, empathy, safe and open communication, all of which can be learned and practiced just like any...
My primary goal in doing psychotherapy is for my clients to have more choices and spontaneity in their lives as well as greater satisfaction. I want to help alleviate suffering, whether generated from past traumatizing experiences or from current experiences. I believe that we all have many answers and great potential inside us, but often are blocked from accessing our own wisdom so that we onl...
Washington, DC and Colorado are home to so many people deeply connected to their pets and companion animals. But what happens when your pet is terminally ill, dies, or goes missing and is never found? What emotional support is available to help you manage these painful and intense feelings? I provide therapeutic support for people going through this devastating and disorienting experience. Havi...
Are you at a point in your life where you feel you need that extra support? I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who provides a safe, supportive environment to allow individuals to grow and reach their full potential. I have worked with children ranging from ages 3 to 17, along with their families, as well as adults. I specialize in working with LGBTQ community, victims of domestic...
