I started doing couples therapy with firefighters and first responders and their spouses while I was also a firefighter. We were all trying to put the pieces back together after September 11th, and while there were plenty of therapists willing to work with individuals coming through the trauma, very few would work with couples. I know what it’s like to be in the fire literally, and I also learned how to be in the fire of guiding highly reactive and traumatized couples. I specialize in helping couples and therapists find their way through the intense heat and confusion of reactive relationships.
When I started counseling, I knew Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) was the best model I could use, but I struggled knowing the right way to use it for me. I saw videos of Sue Johnson and then trained with her, and wondered how on earth I was going to make my College Point Queens, firefighter, tough guy voice sound anything like her sweet, soft tone. Over time I found my own way to be myself in the room with couples, and now I train clinicians all over the world to support their knowledge of EFT. I’m committed to helping clinicians find their own voice in EFT, so they can be the best possible therapists for the couples and families who need us. There is a clearer way to practice EFT, and I can help you find it.
About George
Prior to a career in the field of mental health, George spent 20 years as a NYC Firefighter and NYC Police Officer. George received his M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy from Iona College, where he graduated at the top of his class. He holds a B.A. in Political Science from Queens College. His experience as a FDNY Peer Counselor, particularly following the events of 9/11, sparked his passion to help those impacted by trauma.
He is a certified Trainer/Supervisor/Therapist in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and founder of the New York Center for Emotionally Focused Therapy where he serves as President. He is a Supervisor with the American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy (AAMFT) and teaches classes at the Ackerman Institute for the Family in Manhattan. He is a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist currently practicing in Connecticut and New York. George is the director of training at the Greenwich Center for Hope & Renewal in Connecticut and is on the Board of the Porter Cason Institute at Tulane University in New Orleans.
George brings a unique and varied experience to his practice. Whether he is providing marriage therapy to Wall Street executives, leading a conference for the United States Military or equipping therapists from around the globe, his ability to inspire is far-reaching. George is also committed to bringing EFT to underprivileged populations and pushing the leading edge of effective therapy.