213: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Attachment with Dr. James Hawkins
Jun 4, 2024
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Dr. James Hawkins discusses Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and attachment on the podcast. Topics include success tied to vulnerability, bringing important issues forward, love and protection balance, the key role of validation, and typical client frequency in therapy.
Accessing vulnerability is key to facilitating change and connection in couples therapy.
Validating emotions and exploring vulnerability can lead to profound shifts in how couples relate to each other.
Deep dives
The Vital Role of Vulnerability in Relationships
Learning to find comfort in vulnerability can transform the dynamic of a relationship. Dr. James Hawkins emphasizes the importance of accessing and addressing vulnerability to facilitate change and connection in couples therapy. Recognizing and soothing vulnerability can lead to profound shifts in how couples relate to each other.
The Impact of Sue Johnson's Work on Therapeutic Approach
Reflecting on the legacy of Sue Johnson, Dr. James Hawkins discusses the influence of Johnson's passion for helping individuals lead fulfilling lives. Johnson's emphasis on accessing and validating emotions, particularly in moments of distress and pain, serves as an inspiration for therapists to prioritize understanding and soothing vulnerability in clients.
Navigating Vulnerability and Emotional Expression
Encouraging clients to navigate their vulnerability by expressing deeper emotions can be a transformative aspect of therapy. Dr. James Hawkins underscores the importance of staying proximal to clients' attachment distress and aiding them in recognizing and sharing inner experiences, fostering greater emotional connection and security in relationships.
Supporting Clients' Protective Mechanisms and Emotional Exploration
Acknowledging clients' protective mechanisms while encouraging exploration of emotions creates a safe space for growth in therapy. Dr. James Hawkins highlights the significance of patiently engaging with resistance and facilitating a balance between self-protection and emotional expression for clients seeking healing and connection in relationships.
In this episode, Shane talks with Dr. James Hawkins about Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and attachment. James is a Licensed Counsellor, and an ICEEFT-certified trainer, supervisor, and therapist. Hear how success and vulnerability are tied together, how to bring the most important things to the forefront, how love and protection fit together, why validation is so key, and how often he sees a typical client.