Couples Therapy

Emotionally Focused Therapy

What is Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy?

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is a powerful and evidence-based approach to couples counseling, designed to help couples build stronger emotional bonds, resolve conflicts, and deepen their connection. Developed by Dr. Sue Johnson in the 1980s, EFT is based on the science of adult attachment and the understanding that strong, secure emotional bonds are essential for a fulfilling relationship. EFT helps partners to identify and exit negative interactional patterns and learn to emotionally respond to each other more effectively. EFT is the “gold standard” model for relationship therapy that is all about going to heart of matter – the bond between loving partners – and building security in your attachment bond. Whether you are experiencing frequent misunderstandings, difficulty navigating life’s challenges together, or feeling emotionally distant, EFT can provide a path toward healing and renewed intimacy.

How Does EFT Work? 

Emotionally Focused Therapy usually takes place over 8-20 sessions, depending on each couple’s needs and goals. Couples will meet with a therapist for an initial appointment to discuss your relationship concerns, strengths, joys, and challenges. Clients then meet with the therapist for an individual session to deepen our understanding of your individual relational history and concerns in the current relationship. Individual sessions are limited but balanced for both partners, with the goal for therapy to be focused on the relationship. The treatment process involves three main stages of assessment and de-escalation, restructuring your interactions, and integration of progress.  

Why Couples therapy?

Benefits of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy

EFT has been shown to help couples:

• Address underlying issues to reduce conflict and resentment
• Build emotional security that fosters intimacy and trust
• Enhance communication skills that help you both feel valued and heard
• Strengthen empathy and compassion for each other through emotional awareness
• Develop long-lasting insight and tools to support your relationship long after therapy has ended

Who Can Benefit From EFT?

EFT is effective for couples at all stages of a relationship, whether you’re in the early years or have been together for decades. EFT can help with various issues, including:

• Communication difficulties
• Frequent or unresolved conflict
• Trust issues or infidelity recovery
• Feelings of distance or detachment
• Adjusting to major life transitions (e.g., parenthood, relocation, loss)
• Coping with stress, anxiety, or depression within the relationship