Welcome to the Leading Edge in Emotionally Focused Therapy, hosted by Drs. James Hawkins, Ph.D., LPC, and Ryan Rana, Ph.D., LMFT, LPC—Renowned ICEEFT Therapists, Supervisors, and Trainers. We're thrilled to have you with us. We believe this podcast, a valuable resource, will empower you to push the boundaries in your work, helping individuals and couples connect more deeply with themselves and each other.

This podcast episode focuses on the critical concept of "timing" in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), specifically when and how therapists should "play it" during therapeutic sessions. Hosts Dr. James Hawkins and Dr. Ryan Reyna discuss the importance of recognizing and responding to vulnerable emotions and caregiving moments in couples therapy. Main Points:

Key Ingredients of a Secure Bond

Vulnerable, live emotion

Accessible, responsive, and engaged (ARE) caregiving system

Timing Considerations

Earlier in therapy: Play moments quickly (less room for vulnerability)

Later in therapy: More space to let emotions develop

Clinical decision-making about when to intervene

Critical Moments to "Play It"

When vulnerable emotion emerges

When a caregiving response is present

Before the moment passes or the cycle interrupts vulnerability

Risks of Not Playing the Moment

Clients may exit the vulnerable space

Emotional opportunities can be lost

Cycle of interaction can revert to negative patterns

Practical Advice

Catch and recognize emotional moments

Make clinical decisions about intervention

Prioritize creating space for emotional connection

The episode includes a role-play demonstration illustrating these principles, emphasizing the importance of therapist attunement and timely intervention.

Upcoming events, if you would like to train with James or Ryan…

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We aim to equip therapists with practical tools and encouragement for addressing relational distress. We're also excited to be part of the team behind Success in Vulnerability (SV)—your premier online education platform. SV offers innovative instruction to enhance your therapeutic effectiveness through exclusive modules and in-depth clinical examples.

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If you like the concepts discussed on this podcast you can explore our online training program, Success in Vulnerability (SV).

Thank you for being part of our community. Let's push the leading edge together!