120. Stage 2 Series: Accessing and Utilizing Vulnerability in Stage 2: Introduction to Series

28/07/2025 24 min Episodio 122
120. Stage 2 Series: Accessing and Utilizing Vulnerability in Stage 2: Introduction to Series

Listen "120. Stage 2 Series: Accessing and Utilizing Vulnerability in Stage 2: Introduction to Series"

Episode Synopsis

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.
Join Dr. James Hawkins and Dr. Ryan Rana as they dive deep into the nuanced world of Stage 2 in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). In this illuminating episode, they unpack the critical transition from Stage 1 to Stage 2, providing therapists with a comprehensive guide to understanding when and how to help couples progress in their therapeutic journey. Using their innovative SAFE acronym, they provide practical insights into assessing client readiness, deepening vulnerability, and creating transformative therapeutic experiences. Episode Outline:


Introduction




SV Focus Lab invitation


Podcast mission and purpose


Importance of continuous learning in EFT




Stage 2 Overview




Common misconceptions about Stage 2


Challenges therapists face in transitioning


The need for nuanced understanding




SAFE Acronym Breakdown


S - See the Cycle




Cognitive and experiential awareness


Understanding interpersonal impact




A - Access Vulnerability




Depth of emotional exploration


Balancing client capacity




F - Flexible Responses




Adapting to partner's protective moves


Demonstrating relational safety




E - Experiential Corrections




Importance of repeated corrective experiences


Assessing readiness for Stage 2




Practical Applications




Assessment techniques


Therapeutic strategies


Warning signs and opportunities




Conclusion




Invitation for further learning


Call to action for therapists


Key Takeaways:


Understanding Stage 2 is about nuanced, patient therapeutic work


Clients must demonstrate readiness through multiple experiences


Therapists must balance pushing boundaries while respecting client capacity


To support our mission and help us continue producing impactful content, your financial contributions via Venmo (@leftpodcast) are greatly appreciated. They play a significant role in keeping this valuable resource available and are a testament to your commitment to our cause.
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:

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!

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