

The Emotionally Focused Therapy Podcast
The Art, Heart, and Science of EFT
The Emotionally Focused Therapy Podcast explores the art, heart, and science of EFT. Hosted by EFT Trainers Michael Barnett and Silvina Irwin and EFT Supervisor Michael Preston, each episode offers deep insights and real conversations for therapists learning and leaning into EFT.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 17, 2026 • 54min
S1 Ep 17: Breaking Down the Tango. Move 3 in Stage 2
Discover how emotionally focused therapy (EFT) leverages deep, experiential work to create transformative change in relationships. In this episode, we explore the nuance of stage two enactments, how to recognize when clients are ready, and the vital role of daring to go into painful, disowned fears to foster healing.In this episode:The distinct focus of EFT stage two: enactments of attachment fears and needsThe importance of creating disconfirming experiences to rewire neural networksHow to gauge client readiness for heightened emotional workThe critical role of therapist self-awareness and practice in depth workStrategies for managing the challenges of zoom-based EFT sessionsThe significance of trust, alliance, and stabilizing stages before deep interventionsEncouragement for therapists learning to do this transformative, experiential depth workFor information on the EFT Triage Conference visit:www.efttriage.comTo learn more about working with or training with Michael Barnett or Dr. Silvina Irwin visit their websiteswww.michaelbarnettlpc.comwww.drsilvinairwin.comwww.eftcla.orgTo learn more about working with Michael Preston for EFT Supervision visit Michael's website.www.michaelprestonlpc.comFor more info on Michael's Tango Course visitwww.michaelprestonlpc.com/tangoAttribution:Intro MusicPalms Down by Blue Dot Palms Down by Blue Dot Sessionsdfrv4qmi

9 snips
Mar 3, 2026 • 56min
S1 Ep 16: Breaking Down the Tango. Move 1-2 Stage 2
They unpack the shift from stabilizing negative cycles to pursuing deep attachment healing. They explain how therapists change roles when inviting raw emotion and revisiting painful moments. They describe techniques like imagery, heightening, and linking present distress to family history. They break down two key moves that elicit attachment fears and surface underlying working models.

Feb 17, 2026 • 33min
Special Episode: Externship Parking Lot Questions Pt 2
In this episode, EFT trainers and supervisors delve into critical aspects of practicing EFT, from handling client risks during stages two and three to maintaining self-care as a therapist. Discover practical strategies, the importance of supervision, and how to keep couples engaged and resilient post-therapy.Key TopicsNavigating client backslides and reactivity in stage two — importance of stability and understanding intervention limits.The role of supervision in deepening EFT skills and supporting complex cases.Strategies for ensuring long-term change: protective routines, meaningful life rituals, and ongoing reflection.Self-care essentials for EFT therapists: balancing work demands with personal resilience, creative outlets, and community support.Benefits and logistics of live sessions: how they provide insight, reinforce learning, and empower clients.Handling high-escalation moments: engaging couples in intense emotional episodes safely and effectively.Maintaining client gains after treatment: consolidating skills and life integration practices.The significance of therapists’ ongoing growth and the value of peer support and supervision.To learn more about working with or training with Michael Barnett or Dr. Silvina Irwin visit their websiteswww.michaelbarnettlpc.comwww.drsilvinairwin.comwww.eftcla.orgTo learn more about working with Michael Preston for EFT Supervision visit Michael's website.www.michaelprestonlpc.comTo join the Waitlist for the Michael's Tango Deliberate Practice Group visitwww.michaelprestonlpc.com/tangowaitlistAttribution:Intro MusicPalms Down by Blue Dot Palms Down by Blue Dot Sessionsdfrv4qmi

Feb 3, 2026 • 32min
Special Episode: Externship Parking Lot Questions Pt 1
In this episode, Michael Preston, Dr. Silvina Irwin, and Michael Barnett tackle questions the came up at a recent Externship in Los Angeles. Whether you're grappling with attachment styles, client setbacks, or pivotal relational moments, this episode offers nuanced insights to deepen your understanding and clinical skills.To learn more about working with or training with Michael Barnett or Dr. Silvina Irwin visit their websiteswww.michaelbarnettlpc.comwww.drsilvinairwin.comwww.eftcla.orgTo learn more about working with Michael Preston for EFT Supervision visit Michael's website.www.michaelprestonlpc.comFor more info on Michael's Tango Course visitwww.michaelprestonlpc.com/tangoAttribution:Intro MusicPalms Down by Blue Dot Palms Down by Blue Dot Sessionsdfrv4qmi

Jan 13, 2026 • 49min
S1 Ep 15: Move 4 and 5 Challenges in Stage 1
In this episode, we explore the intricacies of 'move four' and its implications, delving into the strategic aims and potential outcomes. The conversation highlights the importance of creating safe spaces and the dynamics of partnership exposure, offering insights into the dance of professional relationships.To learn more about working with or training with Michael Barnett or Dr. Silvina Irwin visit their websiteswww.michaelbarnettlpc.comwww.drsilvinairwin.comwww.eftcla.orgTo learn more about working with Michael Preston for EFT Supervision visit Michael's website.www.michaelprestonlpc.comFor more info on Michael's Tango Course visit www.michaelprestonlpc.com/tangoAttribution:Intro MusicPalms Down by Blue Dot Palms Down by Blue Dot Sessions

Dec 30, 2025 • 43min
S1 Ep 14: Move 3 Challenges in Stage 1
In this episode, we explore the intricacies of Tango Move 3 in Stage One, addressing audience questions and delving into the therapist's self-awareness. We discuss the challenges of enactments, the importance of understanding blocks, and the opportunities for growth in therapeutic settings. Takeaways: Understanding Tango Stage One is crucial for therapists.Audience questions provide valuable insights into common challenges.Therapist self-awareness is key to effective therapy.Enactments can sometimes land flat, requiring reflection.Blocks in therapy can be opportunities for growth.New therapists should embrace learning from mistakes.Therapeutic growth often comes from unexpected moments.Packaging enactments is an important skill for therapists.Coherent understanding aids in effective therapy.Sideways moments can lead to profound growth.To learn more about working with or training with Michael Barnett or Dr. Silvina Irwin visit their websiteswww.michaelbarnettlpc.comwww.drsilvinairwin.comwww.eftcla.orgTo learn more about working with Michael Preston for EFT Supervision visit Michael's website.www.michaelprestonlpc.comFor more info on Michael's Tango Course visitwww.michaelprestonlpc.com/tangoAttribution:Intro MusicPalms Down by Blue Dot Palms Down by Blue Dot Sessions

Dec 16, 2025 • 49min
S1 Ep 13: Move 2 Challenges in Stage 1
In this episode, we explore community-driven questions, focusing on Move 2 of the Tango in Emotionally Focused Therapy.We discuss the importance of hightening emotion and addressing self of therapists tolerance levels. The discussion highlights the significance of developing new skill as well as therapists being able to accept where they are in their own emotional process. To learn more about working with or training with Michael Barnett or Dr. Silvina Irwin visit their websiteswww.michaelbarnettlpc.comwww.drsilvinairwin.comwww.eftcla.orgTo learn more about working with Michael Preston for EFT Supervision visit Michael's website.www.michaelprestonlpc.comFor more info on Michael's Tango Course visitwww.michaelprestonlpc.com/tangoAttribution:Intro MusicPalms Down by Blue Dot Palms Down by <a href="https://app.sessions.blue/browse/track/356196">Blue Dot Sessions</a>

Dec 2, 2025 • 44min
S1 Ep 12: Move 1 Challenges in Stage 1
In this episode, we explore community-driven questions, focusing on Move 1 of the Tango in Emotionally Focused Therapy.We discuss the importance of understanding multiple perspectives in systemic issues. The discussion highlights the significance of integrating diverse viewpoints to move forward effectively.To learn more about working with or training with Michael Barnett or Dr. Silvina Irwin visit their websites www.michaelbarnettlpc.comwww.drsilvinairwin.comwww.eftcla.orgTo learn more about working with Michael Preston for EFT Supervision visit Michael's website.www.michaelprestonlpc.comFor more info on Michael's Tango Course visitwww.michaelprestonlpc.com/tangoAttribution: Intro MusicPalms Down by Blue Dot https://app.sessions.blue/browse/trac....

Nov 18, 2025 • 46min
S1 Ep 11: Breaking Down The Tango. Move 3-5 Stage 1
In this episode of the Emotionally Focused Therapy podcast, hosts Michael Preston, Michael Barnett, and Dr. Silvina Irwin delve into the intricacies of EFT, focusing on the 'Tango' moves in therapy. They explore how these moves help couples connect emotionally and create new relational experiences. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability, emotional engagement, and the systemic nature of EFT, providing listeners with insights into the therapeutic process and its impact on relationships.To learn more about working with or training with Michael Barnett and Dr. Silvina Irwin visit their websites www.michaelbarnettlpc.com or www.drsilvinairwin.comTo learn more about working with Michael Preston for EFT Supervision visit Michael's website.www.michaelprestonlpc.comFor more info on Michael's Tango Course visitwww.michaelprestonlpc.com/tangoAttribution: Intro MusicPalms Down by Blue Dot.

Nov 11, 2025 • 22min
Welcoming Dr. Silvina Irwin!
This EFT Podcast Mini episode introduces Dr. Silvina Irwin to the show.We are so excited to have Dr. Irwin lend her wisdom to the show. She will be joining us as a regular co-host to the show. She has been and EFT Trainer in Los Angels for nearly a decade and helped bring EFT trainings to the Spanish speaking community!Learn more about her in today's episode!Leave a comment to join us in welcome Dr. Silvina Irwin to The Emotionally Focused Therapy Podcast!Learn More about Dr. Irwin and her work @ www.drsilvinairwin.com


