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Holding Hands

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy

After exploring various treatment modalities, I came to love and appreciate Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) because it emphasizes the importance of emotions and how they influence interactions and bonding. EFT can help you and your partner see beyond the words that you use in conflict, and identify and express your emotions in a safe and structured environment, which leads to deeper connection and improved relationship satisfaction. Most importantly, the therapy is research-based, offering a structured approach that has been proven to be effective for many couples. Research outcomes show EFT is successful in helping couples recover from marital distress 70 – 75% of the time. And 90% of couples participating in EFT report improvement in their relationships.

What is EFT?

Discover the power of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a humanistic approach to psychotherapy backed by extensive research. Formulated in the 1980s and informed by the science of adult attachment, EFT has transformed our understanding of individual dysfunction and health, as well as the nature of romantic relationships and family bonds. EFT recognizes people are inherently social and wired for intimate bonding with others, and prioritizes emotions and emotional regulation as the key drivers of individual experience and relationship dynamics. Join the countless individuals and couples who have found healing and growth through EFT.

What can I expect with EFT?

At the heart of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) are three distinct stages, each tailored to meet your individual needs while adhering to a proven therapeutic model. While progress through these stages may be fluid and cyclical, they offer a roadmap to the healing and growth that is possible with EFT.
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Stage 1

The first stage of EFT involves identifying the negative patterns or cycles that keep you and your partner from experiencing the closeness and connection for which you earn. With the guidance of your therapist, you will begin to respond and reach for your partner in new ways, creating a sense of connection that replaces the distance created by these negative patterns.

Stage 2

In Stage 2 of EFT, the focus is on healing and growing a fledgling bond between you and your partner. You will begin to see one another more clearly and to honor and empathize with the more vulnerable feelings that emerge from this stage. As you begin to see your partner in a new way, the dynamics of your relationship will change.

Stage 3

Stage 3 takes you back to the old issues that felt unsolvable: money, sex, where to spend holidays, who is responsible for the laundry, etc. Whatever the issues were, your new intimacy will allow you to solve them in a way that feels good and no longer drives you apart.

What are the benefits of EFT?

 Through EFT, individuals can gain insight into the root causes of their emotions, leading to healthier emotional regulation and identification.

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  • Improved Interpersonal Understanding

EFT allows you to better understand your emotions and how you experience them in both your mind and your body.

 

  • Stronger Bonds

EFT helps couples build stronger bonds by breaking negative patterns and encouraging emotional openness and understanding. It helps partners feel safer, more connected, and more secure by addressing their core needs and creating healthier ways to interact.

The process of EFT

Book a consultation: I offer an initial 15-minute free consultation to see if my services would be a good fit for your needs and share more about the EFT model. If you decide to move forward with services after the consultation, you will be scheduled for your first session.

 

Session 1: During the first session, both partners will meet as a couple. The session will focus on getting to know one another, going over the EFT process and office policies, as well as discussing your goals for therapy in-depth.

 

Session 2 and 3: The next two sessions will be individual sessions with each partner that will offer the opportunity to learn more about each partner’s family of origin, relationship history, and to hear more individual concerns about the relationship.

 

Session 4 and beyond: After individual sessions, you will meet as a couple and begin treatment. 

Contact
Hydrangea

Get in Touch

I understand that taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting. Reach out with any questions or to schedule an appointment. I look forward to hearing from you.

301 Concourse Blvd, Suite 230
Glen Allen, VA 23059

ahickerson@selah-counselingservices.com

Phone: 757-346-2316

Fax: 757-866-5603

Thank You for reaching out! I will be in touch soon.

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