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
Almost everyone finds themselves where life is hard, where there is a need for some help to get unstuck, and to receive support. When we feel supported, we begin to feel more hopeful and to feel better. It is not easy to ask for help, it takes inner strength and courage. I work hard to create a nonjudgmental, safe, and supportive environment for you to get the help you need and deserve. I work...
Not accepting new clients at this time. My clients are usually the people everyone else leans on. They find it hard to express or even acknowledge their own feelings because they're taking care of others at home/work/school. They also have a history of rough experiences they don't feel safe talking about. My clients are strong but need help creating boundaries so they aren't used/dismissed by...
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I believe that everyone could benefit from therapy, there is no problem too big or too small to be brought to session. I can help you explore and discover new insights in order to understand the roots of your current problem and learn how to develop new ways of being. My approach to therapy is strength based and insight oriented with a touch of humor and whimsy. I specialize in working with tee...
**CURRENTLY AT CAPACITY.** Welcome! You have already shown your courage and determination to achieve a healthier and more fulfilling life. I am honored and privileged to walk with individuals who desire more clarity, support, and encouragement through many of the struggles we experience in this life. I provide client-centered, strength-based psychotherapy for adolescents, adults, and families a...
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7/8/19- Currently Waitlisting New Clients. I believe healing starts when you feel safe and know you are being heard. So that is the environment I work to create; a place where you feel safe; a place where you can discuss what is important to you without judgment; a place where understanding, empathy, and honesty are the highest priorities. If you are struggling, I want to hear your story. I bri...
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My ideal client would be someone who has reached the point where their heart has broken open and they are considering the benefits to making positive changes in their life. This person is ready to examine the areas in their life that have become blind spots, and are willing to address those blind spots in a safe, compassionate and fruitful way. At this time, I am moving towards using my...
In today's generation there are many false standards, stigmas, judgements and morals that we all compare ourselves to. We forget and get lost in who we really are and what we want to bring into our lives and what we don't want to. My goal is to help people get back to their roots and who they truly want to be and also what truly makes them happy. I strongly believe in people being able to...
I work with people, not labels. It’s about you, not a diagnosis. And it’s about me, not a degree. It becomes about us working together for your goals, whatever those are-I can help. We’re so surprised when we feel something but it “doesn’t make sense”. We “should” ourselves & judge. We waste a helluva lot of time doing this. How often have you tried to think yourself out of a feeling? I know!! ...
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been practicing for 23 years, the last 17 of those years in private practice. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, adults, families, and couples, utilizing a variety of approaches in treating a number of issues including depression, anxiety, anger management, adjustment difficulties, women's issues, marital conflict, and sexual abuse issue...
Congratulations on taking your first step towards growth and wellness! We are proud of you for considering counseling for yourself or a family member. Davidson Family Therapy is strengthening families through compassion & creativity in the Lake Norman community. We are here to help you every step of the way, by promoting healing and personal development. We celebrate and honor the creativity...
IMMEDIATE APPOINTMENT AVAILABILITY! Weekend and evening openings! Something that sets me apart from other therapists is that I bring valuable life experience that greatly compliments my therapeutic style. I know first hand personally and professionally, the value in having a safe, warm place to process our daily struggles and I strive to provide that to every one of my clients. My clients find...
