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
Are your life experiences challenging, painful and/or overwhelming? Struggling with your self-worth? We'll focus on you learning to identify and heal from painful experiences that prevent you from living your best quality of life. In a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment we will address your healing, strength discovery and relationships. Everyone is unique, so I use a holistic approa...
Living life to the fullest is sometimes easier said than done. I believe people are innately good and wish to do their very best. Sometimes we get to places where doing our best, or living our best lives, is the most difficult thing we can face. My goal, as a clinical counselor, is to help people see their potential and help them identify ways to reach that potential. I specialize in an array o...
With a bachelors and masters degree in Clinical Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University, Kristen enjoys working with clients of varied ages, cultures, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, and life experiences. As a Certified Trauma Practitioner, Kristen has a unique skill set to help clients of all ages address issues of trauma and/or abuse. She understands the importance of building...
Kristin has a wide array of experience and is a highly regarded and knowledgeable clinician. She works with children, youth, and families using an eclectic approach tailored to the unique needs of each client and family. She's been providing high-quality services for over 10 years. Kristin assists clients coping with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and sexual trauma. She utilizes a ble...
Your difficulties around intimacy leave you feeling stuck and extremely hopeless. Your relationship is seriously lacking in the sex department. You’re struggling to feel close and loved again? The lack of intimacy has lead you to question your relationship and you may have even considered leaving. Are you struggling with a lack of desire or performance anxiety? Maybe your feeling a loss of cont...
Has your anger cost you? Does your anxiety get in the way of being your best self? Do your "recreational" activities no longer feel as exciting as they used to? I specialize in dealing with people who struggle with anger management, anxiety and addiction. I work from a perspective that is inclusive, validating and non-judgmental to help others become "unstuck". If you are open and willing, I am...
Jenny Elledge is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in couples counseling, trauma work, PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, faith transitions, mixed-faith relationships, life transitions and parenting issues. She offers both therapy and coaching services in-office and online settings for couples, families, and individuals. Jenny Elledge is committed to meeting clients where they are and...
I am pleased to offer easy-to-use TeleHealth/teletherapy services to all patients. It takes a great deal of courage to share your experiences with someone, and I am honored to walk this journey with you! Together we can explore how current (and past) stressors and uncertainties may be impacting your lived experience. I aim to co-create an open and warm therapeutic space of collaboration where w...
I manage substance abuse issues, related PTSD and trauma, return to employment, disability issues, and the anxiety that evolves with need for change with confidence and strength needed to allow you to "do it." If you are returning from incarceration and need re-integration, my experience from corrections allows you support and understanding. If you are suffering with mood disorders and thoughts...
*Not currently accepting new clients. When the schedule has openings, this site will be updated.* Is there something keeping you from living a happy, balanced, peaceful life? Would you like to improve your relationships? Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, or stress? Have past traumas kept you from moving forward? Is it time to get some help? At Refuge Counseling, we are a shelter from ...
My goal as a social worker is to help individuals, of all ages, in need improve the quality of their lives and their well-being. Problems that I might help people with may include behavioral, health, and social issues. As a clinical social worker I offer counseling services to those individuals in need. Social workers who specialize in mental health issues work with clients battling mental...
My approach focuses on helping you understand yourself and develop a compassionate relationship with your Self. With humor and gentleness, I will help you find blind spots and obstacles and help you clear the way to your best life. Along the way, I can teach you how to listen and trust your Self, empower you and give you tools to navigate life's most difficult obstacles. I especially enjoy work...
I have been a psychotherapist for over 30 years. I have been trained in numerous modalities including CBT, DBT, and trauma focused treatment. I enjoy working with children and adults suffering from the symptoms of anxiety and mood disorders. I am also a 500 hr. Registered Yoga Teacher. Together with my clients, I create a customized treatment plan that often includes Cognitive Behavioral...
What do we have to gain from therapy? Therapy can help with a variety of challenges. For some it can help with improving communication within our relationships. Therapy can offer us time to reflect on what it is we want, are needing, or what we feel is missing. Therapy can also assist with understanding what we can do as parents to effectively guide our children and teens in challenging times....
