Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a short-term therapy approach primarily aimed at enhancing emotional connection and attachment in romantic relationships. Based on attachment theory, EFT helps couples identify and understand their emotional patterns and how these affect their interactions. The therapy is structured in three phases: de-escalation, where negative interaction patterns are identified; restructuring interactions, which involves expressing emotions and needs positively to create bonding experiences; and consolidation and integration, which reinforces positive changes and teaches effective communication and problem-solving skills. EFT has been proven effective in improving relationship satisfaction and emotional bonds.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) can be beneficial in various situations and for different types of relationship issues. Here are some instances when individuals or couples might benefit from EFT:
The theory behind Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is that people are capable of change and that positive change is possible even in the face of adversity. SFBT is based on the belief that humans are hardwired for survival and that we are constantly seeking to satisfy five basic needs: survival, love and belonging, power, fun, and freedom.
Somatic therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the connection between the body and the mind. It aims to help individuals understand and work through emotional and psychological difficulties by exploring the physical sensations and experiences that are associated with them. The goal is to help individuals become more aware of and attuned to their bodies, which can help them better understand and manage their emotions and thoughts. It can help people deal with unresolved emotional issues that are affecting their physical health. It involves working with the body to release tension and restore balance and can be helpful for people who have chronic physical pain, anxiety, or other emotional problems.
ADHD is considered a neurodivergent condition. This means that it is a neurological difference that affects how a person thinks, learns, and behaves. Consider neurodivergence as a spectrum with different levels of severity. ADHD falls somewhere on this spectrum. Some people with ADHD have mild symptoms, while others have more severe symptoms that significantly impact their daily life. However, all levels of severity are valid and should be respected.
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes extreme mood swings. These mood swings can result in periods of mania, during which a person may feel overly happy and energetic, and periods of depression, during which a person may feel very sad and hopeless. Bipolar disorder can also lead to changes in thinking and behavior, as well as problems with relationships and work. The cause of bipolar disorder is not known, but it is thought to be related to changes in the brain. Bipolar disorder appears to be genetic, meaning that it runs in families. Bipolar disorder can also be triggered by stressful life events.
An emotional disturbance is a problem with the way a person feels or handles their emotions. It can cause problems with how they think, how they act, and how they relate to other people. Emotional disturbances can range from mild to severe and can last for a short time or be a lifelong problem. Some emotional disturbances are caused by things like trauma or stress, while others may be caused by a medical condition or medication.
Counselling is for people who want to make changes in their lives but need some help to do so. Counselling can help you learn about yourself, set goals, and figure out how to make the changes you want. It can also provide support and guidance during difficult times. If you’re considering counselling as an option for treatment, be sure to find a therapist who is registered with the College of Alberta Psychologists and has a valid licence to practise. With the right therapist, counselling can be a valuable tool for making positive changes in your life.
The most important stage of counselling is the initial stage, during which the counselor establishes rapport with the client. This is important because it helps to create a foundation of trust and understanding between the counselor and the client.
Common concussion symptoms can include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, confusion, sensitivity to light or noise, and changes in mood or behavior. In some cases, concussion symptoms may not appear for hours or even days after the injury occurred. If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have a concussion, it is important to seek medical attention.
Humanistic therapy is a client-centred approach in psychology that emphasizes an individual’s capacity for personal growth, self-awareness, and self-actualization. It places great importance on the present moment and the unique experiences of each person. Therapists create a supportive, non-judgmental environment to help clients explore their feelings and thoughts, fostering self-discovery and insight. The goal is to empower individuals to recognize their strengths, develop a positive self-concept, and make choices aligned with their authentic values. Humanistic therapy aims to promote personal growth, self-fulfillment, and meaningful life through a holistic and client-driven approach.
Hoarding is the excessive accumulation of items, coupled with difficulty or refusal to part with them, which often results in clutter, disorganization, and potentially hazardous living environments. Different types of hoarding include compulsive hoarding (often linked to mental health issues like OCD), collecting (which becomes hoarding when it’s excessive and disorganized), animal hoarding (accumulating large numbers of pets without providing proper care), digital hoarding (amassing digital files and data), and others.
Individuals who hoard usually feel a strong attachment to their possessions and experience distress at the thought of losing them. This behaviour can be driven by emotional attachments, fear of losing memories, or perceived future utility of the items.
Hoarding can have a significant impact on an individual’s life, affecting personal relationships, mental health, and the functionality and safety of living spaces. For example, excessive clutter can create fire hazards or make a home unsanitary.
Addressing hoarding often requires a multi-faceted approach that includes psychological therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, support from family and friends, and sometimes medications to treat underlying mental health conditions. Interventions are often gradual and focused on helping the individual to develop decision-making skills and reduce the distress associated with discarding items.
