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
I earned my Masters degree from Wayne State University's Marriage and Family Therapy Program. I have worked extensively with adults, children and adolescents, specializing in assessment and individual and group therapy, while working in the Court system for 27 years. In addition, I have provided therapy in various outpatient settings. I have worked contractually at Thrive Therapy Group for 4...
****Currently not accepting new clients******I have been in the field for 10 years and truly love what I do. My goal is to help clients live the best quality of life they can. I address clients with compassion as we work together to address body, mind, and spirit in the healing process. I have experience working with teens, adults and couples dealing with a range of issues including: anxiety,...
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Besides seeing individual clients, one of my specialty areas is couples therapy. I am a Certified Gottman Therapist, a way of working with couples which was developed by John Gottman and Julie Schwartz Gottman after extensive longitudinal research with thousands of couples. I have completed an extra Gottman training on treating affairs and trauma, and work with couples going through a variety o...
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I provide a therapeutic experience in which I authentically engage my heart and my mind to offer a transformative and healing process. With my approach, I listen to every single person very carefully, and then offer an honest, well-informed, compassionate, and flexible response, connection, and relationship that enables many individuals and couples to find healing well beyond their original hop...
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I am an experienced doctor of psychology and licensed psychotherapist, who specializes in treating individuals across the life span, couples, and families experiencing a wide-range of difficulties. My passionate, friendly and patient approach is aimed at developing a therapeutic relationship with my clients that will inspire hope, help them recognize their strengths and develop the insight and...
CONGRATULATIONS on making the decision to seek help! It is one of the most difficult but yet liberating decisions a person can make. It takes wisdom and courage and you definitely have it. It would be an honor to assist you! EVERYBODY NEEDS SOMEBODY SOMETIMES! Our Licensed Clinicians have over 20 years of experience working in mental health and Christian counseling. We understand how life's...
I am sorry, but I'm unable to accept new patients until further notice. I'm an experienced male therapist who's probably been where you are now, and can help you get back to living well. Relationships, divorce, parenting, work... they can be awful. I'll help you find clarity, assess your options, and make changes. As adults, we have to honorably juggle our responsibilities, duties, and desires....
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I can help you get unstuck from stagnation in your life by working through inner conflicts or ambivalence that may be blocking your progress. I can support you in navigating a challenging work, relationship, or life-stage transition. I can be your ally in identifying your authentic life passions, goals, calling, direction, and/or purpose, thereby realizing your full potential. If you are feelin...
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What if I can't be helped, what if I fall apart, what if I feel judged, what if I am so broken, no one can help me? These are the types of questions I hear that stop people from trying counseling and speaking with someone about the pain and difficulties in their life. You can start with simply calling and we will talk about what you are looking for and if you think I will be someone you would f...
