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.

In this episode of "Leading Edge in Emotionally Focused Therapy", Dr. James Hawkins and Dr. Ryan Rana dive deep into Stage Two therapy, exploring the critical question: "How deep is deep enough?" They discuss the nuanced process of helping couples explore painful emotional experiences and turn over metaphorical "stones" of past trauma and attachment injuries. Top Points:

Stage Two Depth Requires Repetition

Re-engagement for withdrawers typically takes 3-9 sessions

Therapists must repeatedly explore painful experiences

Build momentum from session to session

Key Stage Two Strategies

Enter difficult conversations from a positive foundation

Use scene-setting techniques to evoke deeper emotions

Convert individual pain into co-regulation opportunities

Exploring "Stones" (Painful Experiences)

Look for deepest fears

Uncover negative self-views

Explore barriers to seeking comfort

Address attachment injuries, trauma, marginalization experiences

Critical Therapeutic Approach

Walk with clients through their emotional "basement"

Help clients build confidence in facing difficult memories

Ensure partners can provide comfort in vulnerable moments

Create "experiential bridges" for future emotional support

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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.

 Stay connected with us:

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!