Using EFT in Sex Therapy

This workshop will help introduce practitioners to using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) with clients.  EFT is a research-based approach to therapy that creates emotional connection and secure attachment in adult relationships. According to research, lack of secure attachments results in a decline in happiness, fulfillment, and mental health.  However, when there is secure attachment in relationships, we will see more internal resilience and positive views of self and others.

EFT helps create safety in connecting with others in vulnerable, powerful, and honest ways.  Participants will learn how to hear the heart of their clients and to help them organize their thoughts and feelings so that their relationships thrive and heal.

In this workshop participants will learn how to use EFT with sexual cases like desire discrepancy, CNM and more.

Learning Objectives:

1)     Describe the basics of attachment theory

2)     Demonstrate facilitating first order change by using Stage 1 – build empathy around sexual issues

3)     Explain cycles within couples and how to externalize them – How to externalize sexual issues

4)     Be able to facilitate second order Change in Stage 2 – create change in the sexual dynamic

5)     Describe at two interventions to help clients delve deeper into their attachment needs

6)     Help clients organize and voice their feelings and sexual needs to their partners

7)     Explain EFT

8)     Discuss how to use EFT with sexual issues

Presentation will include PowerPoint slides, case discussions, audience discussions, and Q&A

Activity Schedule:

1 hour – Introduction and brief history of attachment

Q&A

1 hour – Steps of EFT – Assessment

Q&A

2.5 hours – Stage 1

Q& A

2.5 hours – Stage 2

Q& A

30 minutes – Stage 3

Q&A

Speaker Bio:

Kimberly is a Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified AASECT Sex Therapist and Supervisor, AAMFT Supervisor, Certified EFT therapist and supervisor in training.  She lives in North Carolina and runs a group practice virtually.  Her group practice, Healing Moments Counseling is located in Washington state.  She is on the board for the Health Advisory for MSAA (Multiple Sclerosis Association of America) where she adocated for sexual health and resources for those living with MS. Kimberly does a lot of speaking for MSAA about sexuality, disability, and managing relationships. During her time away from the office she loves being with her animals which include 2 horses, 2 cats, a dog, a bunny and a DOVE!  Kimberly is married, is a parent and does every part of her life through an attachment lens.