Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for Couples is a short-term treatment approach (typically 10-12 sessions) developed by Sue Johnson and Les Greenberg whose goal is to reconnect partners. Based on John Bowlby’s attachment research, it works with human’s innate need to feel attached and comforted by significant others.
Adult attachment is believed to have the same survival function as the mother-child bond which can provide the same love, comfort, support, and protection throughout our lives.
When couples feel distress, they may become anxious, fearful, angry, or numb. They can develop habitual models of reacting which may include toxic behaviors in an attempt to protest disconnection.
Through EFT for Couples, partners can begin to recognize and express their needs for love and comfort more directly rather than through hidden or unconscious patterns of anger, blame, and/or withdrawing. When defensiveness and hurtful patterns are understood through the lens of attachment, there is de-escalation. By creating an environment of safety, conflict and differences can then be handled more productively and collaboratively. We can rest more fully into ourselves through our connection with another.
Note: If one or more partners has a history of trauma, depression, or addiction, the course of treatment length may be longer.
Somatica for Couples
Somatica is a relationship and sexuality coaching method developed by Danielle Harel and Celeste Hirschman. Trained in Somatica for Couples, Valerie helps couples develop open and communicative relationships, fire up the passion, learn to navigate differing desires, manage disappointment, and bring more fulfillment and adventure to your sex life.
Hakomi for Couples
Hakomi is a mindfulness-based experiential approach to self-awareness and healing. It’s use of experiments, self-inquiry, curiosity, and non-judgment helps couples deepen into their understanding of self and other and allows healing at core levels, healing old wounds, resolving trauma, and helping couples to support each other in their growth process. Using an embodied approach, couples are often surprised at the playfulness, wisdom, and movement that happens.