124. Stage 2 Series: 16 Stones-How Deep is Deep Enough-Hovering in Stage 2, Step 5

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:

1. 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

2. 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

3. Exploring "Stones" (Painful Experiences)

• Look for deepest fears

• Uncover negative self-views

• Explore barriers to seeking comfort

• Address attachment injuries, trauma, marginalization experiences

4. 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.

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• Facebook: Follow our page @pushtheleadingedge
• Ryan: Follow @ryanranaprofessionaltraining on Facebook and visit his website
• James: Follow @dochawklpc on Facebook and Instagram, or visit his website at dochawklpc.com
• George Faller: Visit georgefaller.com

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!