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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I am a therapist with over 25 years experience providing individual psychotherapy to adults.I also provide couples counseling to help couples develop better communication skills and gain a better understanding of each other and each others needs. I have experience working in hospitals and in community mental health centers helping individuals with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, grief and...
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With over twenty years experience in LGBTQ counseling, research, and teaching, I have a unique understanding of our community. Among LGBTQ individuals anxiety and depression may involve feelings of emptiness, relationship problems, interpersonal sensitivity, or addictions. The roots of these struggles can vary, but it helps to have a therapist who grasps the alienating impact of growing up in a...
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It takes courage to ask for help, especially from someone you don't know. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and clinical pastoral counselor, I work with individuals, couples and families to resolve common human problems. I believe you will benefit from the clinical competence, experience and maturity gained from more than thirty years in practice, and wi...
We are Group of Psychotherapists who are dedicated to helping, healing, and strengthen individuals, families, and couples with their life changes and challenges.Each therapist is licensed and educated to provide an excellent level of care. The therapists at Ray of Hope Counseling Services also have additional training and hold certifications in their specialty area. Ray of Hope Counseling Servi...
I believe that in order to be happy and healthy, we must nourish the whole person. As you begin your journey towards healing, I recognize the courage it takes to come in for help. My goal is to help you discover your true potential, and form healthy relationships along the way. I strongly believe that each individual holds the power to change and create the life they desire. Together we can wor...
"Awareness is the greatest agent for change".....Eckhart Tolle I have been a Social Worker for 25+ years, working in many different settings. This brings a unique perspective to my practice. OASAS Certified for Screening and Assessments (English/Spanish), Substance Abuse Professional, Hypnotherapy....
Mark is a skilled therapist who welcomes individuals, couples and families. He has experience treating a variety of issues including anxiety, panic, depression, crisis, grief, trauma and PTSD as well as personalty disorders. He strives to assure that therapy is done in a caring, calm and non-judgemental environment. Mark enjoys working with couples using Integrative Couple Therapy and Emotion...
I am honored when my clients tell me that sessions together just feel "real!" I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with expertise in clinical and diagnostic assessments, resilience training, and CBT.I specialize in treatment of adolescence and emerging adults as well as family therapy. I offer a supportive and safe space to discuss any wide range of issues that are currently impacting you or...
GateHouse Treatment is a private addiction treatment facility providing intervention and addiction treatment services to people suffering from substance use disorders and individuals with co-occurring mental health issues. We offer treatment in a serene setting, and our staff has decades of experience treating substance abuse in those struggling with substance abuse. We provide therapy in a...
