Emotionally-Focused Therapy

What is EFT
(Emotionally-Focused Therapy)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a structured, short-term therapeutic approach primarily designed for couples and families. Developed by Dr. Sue Johnson in the 1980s, EFT focuses on the emotional bonds between individuals and aims to enhance attachment and emotional connection.

How EFT Works

Assessment and Engagement: The therapist assesses the couple’s relationship dynamics and emotional experiences, helping both partners feel heard and understood.
Identifying Negative Cycles: The therapist guides the couple in recognizing negative interaction patterns that contribute to emotional disconnection and distress. This often involves understanding how each partner reacts to the other’s emotional needs.
Accessing Underlying Emotions: EFT encourages partners to access and express their underlying emotions, such as fear, vulnerability, or sadness, which are often masked by anger or withdrawal.
Creating New Interaction Patterns: The therapist helps couples create new, more positive interaction patterns by fostering emotional responsiveness and support. This involves expressing needs and feelings in a way that invites connection rather than conflict.
Consolidation and Integration: In the final stages, couples work on consolidating their new patterns of interaction and integrating the skills learned during therapy into their everyday lives, enhancing their emotional bond.

Who can benefit from EFT?

EFT is effective for various relationship issues, including:

Couples struggling with communication and intimacy
Families experiencing conflict or disconnection
Individuals dealing with attachment-related issues
Clients coping with trauma or emotional distress affecting relationships

How can EFT help me?

Improved Communication: EFT helps partners communicate more effectively and openly about their feelings and needs.
Strengthened Emotional Bonds: The therapy fosters a deeper emotional connection, enhancing intimacy and trust.
Resolution of Conflict: EFT provides tools to resolve conflicts and reduce cycles of criticism and withdrawal.
Increased Emotional Awareness: Individuals learn to recognize and express their emotions more effectively, leading to healthier interactions.