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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Hi, I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25 years of therapeutic experience. I use Cognitive & Dialectical Behavioral therapies, but I understand the importance of psychodynamic intervention as well. These therapies are used for the treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder both with individuals and couples.Within a population of 18 years and...
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I am genuinely passionate about supporting people through stressful life experiences to live healthier, happier lives. I help couples and families overcome disconnection to rebuild and strengthen their closeness. I also specialize in treating individuals, including, children, adolescents, and adults, who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and low self-esteem. I work collaborativel...
Have you experienced a crisis in your life, due to trauma, illness or loss? Do you need relief from internal pain and suffering? I can help. I have successfully treated hundreds of people using a combination of energy healing and spiritual counseling. My practice is based in Santa Barbara Ca, but I work on Skype and phone with people around the world. Energy work is received long distance and i...
I am incredibly passionate about psychotherapy, and not only that, I believe in it with all my heart. I value the individuality of each and every one of my clients, and I believe the relationship we form is the basis for real change and growth. I am committed to understanding my clients very deeply, and in helping them understand themselves. In addition to gaining insight and awareness, I...
Anolani Na'au Pono, Center for Well-Being is a place of wellness that advocates and promotes "healing" from within. Here we strive to work collaboratively with youths, adults, seniors and/or families as they navigate behavioral, emotional and mental health challenges that impedes, interrupts and/or disrupts their sense of wellness and well being. Consistent with Native Hawaiian concepts of "Us,...
