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Emotion Focused Individual Therapy

TRAUMA-INFORMED THERAPY IN BATAVIA and NAPERVILLE, IL AND ONLINE

Sound like you?

"I feel overwhelmed by my emotions and don’t know how to regulate them."

"I keep pushing people away because I’m afraid they’ll abandon me."

"The past still controls me, even though I try to move forward."

"I want to feel connected, but I don’t trust anyone enough to let them in."

It feels like you’re stuck in a cycle of emotional overwhelm and disconnection. You’ve spent years trying to manage the impact of past experiences, but nothing seems to bring lasting relief. Emotions like fear, sadness, and anger feel unmanageable, leaving you drained and uncertain about how to move forward. You’ve worked hard to keep relationships afloat, yet you still find yourself feeling misunderstood, unsupported, or even alone. The pain of unresolved attachment wounds impacts not only your emotional well-being but also your ability to trust yourself and others fully.

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Meet Our Team of EFIT Therapists

At Creating Space Therapy, our EFIT therapists are highly trained in helping clients navigate the challenges of emotional overwhelm, attachment wounds, and unresolved trauma. Using Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), they guide clients through an evidence-based process that fosters emotional regulation, heals attachment injuries, and builds healthier relational patterns. Our EFIT therapists bring compassion, expertise, and a client-centered approach to every session, creating a safe and supportive space for your healing journey. Whether you’re seeking to understand and manage your emotions, repair the effects of past experiences, or deepen your connections with others, our EFIT specialists are here to help you find resilience and lasting relief.

Tracy Teichman LSW

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What is Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)?

Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach designed to help individuals understand, regulate, and transform their emotional experiences. Developed by Dr. Susan Johnson, EFIT focuses on the core role emotions play in shaping thoughts, behaviors, and relationships. This therapy is rooted in attachment theory, emphasizing how past relational experiences influence emotional patterns and connection with others.

EFIT helps clients explore their emotional responses in a safe, supportive environment, enabling them to identify and process deep-rooted feelings tied to attachment wounds or past trauma. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EFIT delves into the emotional core of an individual’s challenges, empowering them to reframe negative patterns and build healthier, more secure connections with themselves and others. Whether you're seeking to heal unresolved trauma, navigate emotional struggles, or foster more meaningful relationships, EFIT offers a structured path toward emotional resilience and personal growth.

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Why We Use EFIT as a Trauma-Informed Approach

At Creating Space Therapy, we understand that trauma leaves an imprint not just on the mind but on the emotions and relationships as well. That’s why we use Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) as a core, trauma-informed approach. EFIT is uniquely designed to address the emotional and relational impacts of trauma, offering a compassionate framework to help clients feel safe, seen, and supported as they process their experiences.

Trauma often disrupts emotional regulation and attachment bonds, leaving individuals feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or stuck in survival mode. EFIT directly addresses these challenges by focusing on the healing power of emotions and the role of secure relationships in recovery. Through EFIT, clients are guided to understand and process their emotions in a way that fosters empowerment and resilience, creating a path toward lasting change.

This approach also aligns with our commitment to trauma-informed care by prioritizing safety, trust, and collaboration. EFIT allows clients to engage in healing at their own pace, addressing the deep emotional wounds caused by trauma in a way that honors their unique story and journey. It’s more than therapy—it’s a transformative process that helps individuals reclaim their emotional strength and rebuild a sense of connection, both within themselves and with others.

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The EFIT Process

The process of Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) is designed to help you better understand, regulate, and transform your emotional experiences. Guided by a compassionate therapist, EFIT focuses on creating a safe space where you can explore the core emotions that shape your thoughts, behaviors, and relationships.

The first stage of EFIT involves identifying emotional patterns and attachment wounds that may be causing distress or holding you back. Together with your therapist, you’ll uncover the underlying emotions tied to your experiences and begin to make sense of them. This understanding sets the foundation for meaningful change.

In the second stage, the focus shifts to deepening emotional awareness and learning to regulate difficult feelings. Your therapist will guide you through techniques that help you access, process, and reframe negative emotional responses. By working through these emotions, you’ll begin to feel more empowered and in control of your inner world.

The final stage of EFIT centers on transformation and connection. As you develop new ways of experiencing and expressing emotions, you’ll start to see changes in how you relate to yourself and others. This process fosters stronger emotional resilience, deeper self-compassion, and healthier, more secure relationships.

At every step, the EFIT process is tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that you feel supported and understood as you work toward healing and growth.

Signs That EFIT May Be Right for You

If you’re stuck in the same painful patterns, wondering why your relationships always seem to fall apart or why your emotions feel so out of control, EFIT might be exactly what you need. When emotions run the show, it’s easy to feel like you’re caught in a storm—hurting yourself and the people around you.

You’ve been through failed relationship after failed relationship and don’t know how to stop the cycle.

Your emotions always feel too big, and they overwhelm you and the people you care about.

You feel like no matter how hard you try, no one truly understands or supports you.

You find yourself pushing people away, even though you crave connection.

Stressful situations leave you feeling like you’re either exploding or completely shutting down.

You’re exhausted from feeling stuck in the same patterns and just want things to be different.

It may feel impossible now, but you can learn to take control of your emotions and create the connections you’ve been longing for. And we can help you get there.

EFIT THERAPY CAN HELP YOU -

Learn to Regulate Your Emotions

Together, we’ll help you understand what’s behind your emotional reactions and give you tools to feel more in control. You’ll no longer feel like your emotions are running the show

Heal the Pain of Past Experiences

We’ll gently explore the hurts that have shaped you and work through them in a way that feels safe. Those old wounds don’t have to define your future anymore.

Build Healthier Relationships

You’ll learn how to express your needs and feelings in ways that bring you closer to others instead of pushing them away. Relationships can feel safe and fulfilling again.

Find Peace Within Yourself

EFIT will help you quiet the inner critic and build a stronger sense of self-worth. You’ll start to feel more grounded and confident in who you are.

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Transform Your Life with Personalized EFIT Therapy

At Creating Space Therapy, we understand how difficult it can be to feel stuck in emotional pain or disconnected from the relationships that matter most. That’s why our approach to Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) is designed to meet you where you are, offering a safe space to work through your challenges. With compassion and expertise, our therapists will guide you toward deeper emotional understanding, greater self-awareness, and the healthy connections you deserve.

Rooted in Attachment and Connection

We focus on the emotional bonds that shape your life, helping you heal attachment wounds and rebuild trust. Whether it’s with yourself or others, we help you create the connection you’ve been missing.

Compassionate, Trauma-Informed Care

We understand the lasting effects of trauma and ensure therapy is paced in a way that feels safe and manageable. You’ll feel supported every step of the way as we create space for healing.

Empowering Emotional Awareness

Our EFIT therapists go beyond surface-level solutions to help you explore and transform your emotional experiences. Together, we’ll work to reduce emotional overwhelm and foster resilience so you can thrive.

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Understanding What is Attachment Trauma.

Attachment trauma can leave deep emotional scars, impacting how you connect with others and navigate relationships. These wounds, often rooted in early experiences of abandonment, neglect, or betrayal, can make it difficult to trust, feel secure, or build meaningful connections. Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) offers a path to healing by addressing the emotional pain at the core of attachment trauma and helping you rewrite the patterns that keep you stuck.

What is attachment trauma?

Attachment trauma occurs when the relationships you relied on for safety and support were unstable, neglectful, or harmful. These experiences, often starting in childhood, can make it hard to trust others or feel emotionally secure in relationships. You may notice patterns like avoiding closeness, feeling overly dependent, or fearing abandonment.

Why do I keep repeating the same relationship patterns?

Attachment trauma often shapes how we interact with others, creating patterns based on our early experiences. For example, if you learned to protect yourself by pushing people away, you might find it hard to let others in now. EFIT helps uncover the emotions and fears behind these patterns, giving you the tools to respond differently and create healthier connections.

Why are my emotions so overwhelming in relationships?

Attachment trauma can heighten emotional sensitivity, especially when it feels like your needs or fears are being triggered. EFIT helps you understand these emotional responses and teaches you how to regulate them. Together, we’ll work to calm the emotional storm and replace those intense reactions with a sense of control and balance.

Can attachment wounds really heal?

Yes, attachment wounds can heal. While the pain of past experiences doesn’t disappear overnight, EFIT provides a compassionate and structured way to process and transform these emotions. By addressing the root of the pain, you can build trust in yourself and others, forming secure and meaningful relationships.

EFIT isn’t just about managing attachment trauma; it’s about helping you build the resilience and connection you need to move forward with confidence and peace.

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Addressing Common Concerns About EFIT

It’s completely normal to have questions or uncertainties about starting a new form of therapy like Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT). Trying something unfamiliar can feel intimidating, especially when it involves exploring emotions and past experiences. At Creating Space Therapy, we’re here to address your concerns and ensure you feel supported as you take this step toward healing.

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Will exploring my emotions make things worse?

It’s understandable to worry about opening up old wounds. EFIT is designed to move at your pace, providing a safe space to explore emotions without becoming overwhelmed. Our therapists are skilled in creating a balance between processing your feelings and helping you feel grounded.

What if I can’t handle the emotions that come up?

EFIT teaches you tools to regulate your emotions, so you feel more in control during and after sessions. You won’t face these emotions alone—your therapist will guide and support you every step of the way.

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What if I don’t know how to talk about my feelings?

Many clients come to therapy unsure of how to put their emotions into words, and that’s okay. EFIT helps you connect with and understand your feelings, even if it feels difficult at first. We’ll work together to make this process feel natural and manageable.

How long will it take to see progress?

Everyone’s journey is unique, but many clients begin to notice shifts within the first several sessions. EFIT is a highly effective and evidence-based therapy that works to create meaningful, lasting change at a pace that feels right for you.

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You Deserve to Healing and Connection

WE'RE HERE FOR YOU.

You might feel like things will never get better, but healing is possible. Emotion Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) offers a way to break free from overwhelming emotions and painful patterns. Together, we’ll help you feel more grounded and connected, creating the relationships and inner peace you’ve been longing for. Change is always possible, and you don’t have to face this alone.

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QUESTIONS? WE'VE GOT ANSWERS.

Frequently asked questions-

Is Creating Space Therapy Better Than AI Therapy Chatbots?

While AI chatbots may be able to provide basic support, they can't replace the deep, human connection that's essential for true healing. At Creating Space Therapy, our certified therapists in Batavia and Naperville, as well as through online telehealth, offer personalized care tailored to your unique needs. We understand the complexities of human emotions and experiences, something that AI simply cannot replicate. Our therapists provide empathy, understanding, and adaptive care that evolves with you, ensuring that you receive the support you need at every step of your healing journey. With us, you're not just interacting with a program—you’re connecting with someone who genuinely cares about your well-being.
What types of therapy do you offer?

At Creating Space Therapy, we offer a wide range of therapeutic services, including grief counseling, trauma therapy, EMDR therapy, bibliotherapy, and specialized therapy for children and teens. Our certified therapists in Batavia, Naperville, and online are skilled in various modalities, ensuring that we can tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
How do I know which therapist is right for me?

Choosing the right therapist is a personal decision, and we’re here to help you find the best fit. Our team of certified therapists brings a diverse set of skills and specialties. Whether you’re seeking help with grief, trauma, or other challenges, we’ll guide you to the therapist whose expertise aligns with your needs, whether in Batavia, Naperville, or online.
What should I expect during my first therapy session?

Your first therapy session at Creating Space Therapy is an opportunity to begin building a trusting relationship with your therapist. We’ll discuss your goals, concerns, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. Our aim is to create a comfortable, safe space where you feel heard and supported, whether you’re visiting our Batavia or Naperville offices or connecting through online telehealth.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

Yes, online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy. At Creating Space Therapy, our online telehealth sessions are designed to provide the same level of care and connection as face-to-face meetings. Our certified therapists are experienced in delivering compassionate, high-quality therapy through secure video sessions, ensuring you receive the support you need, no matter where you are in Illinois.

Free Download!

Get our completely free eBook that teaches you concrete skills to cope with the big, heavy, deep emotions that come with grief and trauma. We hope to help ease your suffering by guiding you in developing healthy coping skills.