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
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My name is Alaina and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. In treatment with me, clients can expect a compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental approach. One of my priorities in the therapy room is to create a safe environment for individuals to make discoveries, gain clarity, and make real progress toward their therapy goals. I specialize in all areas of maternal health therapy, including...
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I have worked in the mental health field since 1992, beginning in Boston, MA moving to Augusta, GA and finally settling in Cleveland, OH. My early work was trauma based with children and adolescents. My practice has since grown to include families and couples. I now see clients from the age of 10, adolescents, adults, families and couples. Emotional distress, from slight unease to life disrupti...
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Hi, I'm Joe and I've been in private practice for over 25 years. I have provided therapy to people at several locations around Southeastern Wisconsin during that time and I have seen people with many different issues. I feel i know many different ways to help people help themselves. That is where my focus is, that of meeting the person where they are so that change can begin. When I listen to...
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