Emotionally Focused Therapy

"EFT is a short term (8-20 sessions), structured approach to couples therapy formulated in the early 80's by Sue Johnson and Les Greenberg. EFT is also used with families. A substantial body of research outlining the effectiveness of EFT now exists. Research studies find that 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery and approximately 90% show significant improvements. The major contraindication for EFT is on-going violence in the relationship. EFT is being used with many different kinds of couples in private practice, university training centres and hospital clinics and many different cultural groups. These distressed couples include partners suffering from disorders such as depression, post traumatic stress disorders and chronic illness.

Strengths of Emotionally Focused Therapy

       EFT is based on clear, explicit conceptualisations of marital distress and adult love. These conceptualisations are supported by empirical research on the nature of marital distress and adult attachment.

       EFT is collaborative and respectful of clients combining experimental Rogerian techniques with structural systemic interventions

       Change strategies and interventions are specified.

       Key moves and moments in the change process has been mapped into nine steps and three change events.

       EFT has been validated by 20 years of empirical research. There is also research on the change process and predictors of success.

       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 create a shift in partner’s inter-actional positions and initiate new cycles of interaction.

       To foster the creation of a secure bond between partners.

A Snapshot of the Change Process
In a therapy session, a husband’s numb withdrawal expands into a sense of intimidation and helplessness. He can now assert his need for respect and become more accessible to his wife.

He moves from "There is no point in talking to you. I don't want to fight." to "I do want to be close. I want you to give me a chance. Stop poking me and let me learn to dance with you."

His wife’s critical anger then expands into fear and sadness. She can now ask for and elicit comfort.

She moves from "You just don't care. You don't get it." to "It is so difficult to say – but I need you to hold me – reassure me – can you?"

New cycles of bonding interactions occur and replace negative cycles such as pursue-withdraw or criticise-defend. These positive cycles then become self-reinforcing and create permanent change.

The relationship becomes a safe haven and a healing environment for both partners. "

Copyright: The Centre for Emotionally Focused Therapy http://www.eft.ca/about/about.htm