What is Emotionally Focused Therapy?

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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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 you searching for the skills to help yourself, your marriage or family through life’s challenges? Do you desire the tools needed for a relationship with effective communication and a loving connection? Are there areas of your life you would like to improve? The first steps in overcoming life’s challenges are (1) realizing you need help and (2) reaching out to effective resources. Expressing…

Leon Ginn

Baltimore

Maryland

Ginn Counseling, LLC, provides virtual therapy to individuals, couples, and families in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and all of Pennsylvania. Click here to meet our therapist, Leon Ginn, MSPC, LPC. https://www.ginncounseling.com/

Stephanie Mason, LMFT

Torrance

California

Together, we will create a space of emotional safety where you feel seen, heard and understood. My specialty is in Complex Trauma, Chronic Pain, PTSD and Low Self Esteem. Call today for a free consultation!

Tim Parker PhD, LMFT

Cedar Park

Texas

I work with couples, individuals, and families who want to live a life in line with what they value. Too often we feel down, depressed, or anxious because how we are currently living does not line up with what we value. I help guide clients to a values aligned life.