WHY EFT?

Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples

Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT) is the evidenced-based structured approach to treating relational distress in couples and families.  Developed by Dr. Sue Johnson, EFT provides a well researched road map for helping couples and families move from distress to recovery.  As noted by the International Center for Excellence in EFT, research studies find that 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery and approximately 90% show significant improvements.  In fact, recent brain imaging studies have shown remarkable brain changes among couples who have successfully completed EFT therapy.  EFT is contraindicated for couples with on-going violence in the relationship.  The model is based on the science of human love and attachment.  Specifically, it draws upon the work of John Bowlby and attachment theory; the traditions of humanistic and experiential psychology as developed by Carl Rogers; and the developing fields of brain and neuroscience.  

Strengths of Emotionally Focused Therapy

• EFT is based on clear conceptualizations of marital distress and adult love. It is supported by empirical research on the nature of marital distress and adult attachment.

• EFT is non-pathologizing, collaborative and respectful of clients with the alliance between therapist and clients being a key element.

• Change strategies and interventions are clear and specific, addressing recurring patterns of negative interaction and the underlying emotions that drive those patterns.

• EFT has been applied to many different kinds of problems and populations.

GOALS OF EmOTIONALLY FOCUSED THERAPY

• To expand and re-organize key emotional responses – the music of the attachment dance.

• To facilitate a shift in partners' interactional positions and initiate new cycles of interaction.

• To foster the creation of a secure bond between partners.