Developed by leading Canadian psychologists Dr. Susan Johnson and Dr. Leslie Greenberg, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is a process that guides couples as they break old destructive communication patterns and rebuild their connection with one another.
EFT is a well-researched, effective model of treatment increasing in popularity because of the positive results it achieves including:
The rapid resolution of issues (counselling is short term, lasting 10- 20 sessions)
An unparalleled success rate (70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery while 90% show significant improvement). This compared favorably to the next leading model of therapy, which has a success rate of 35%
Continued improvement of 70 % after therapy. A two-year follow-up of extremely distressed couples with depression and parental distress showed stable results
Proven effective for treating couples with histories of sexual abuse, depression, grief, chronic illness, eating disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, traumatic childhood backgrounds, low sexual desire, or extramarital affairs
The extent of distress at the beginning of therapy is a very low predictor (4%) of successful outcomes
An improvement in overall health and a lessening of stress related to increased marital satisfaction
Collaborative and respectful, Emotionally Focused Therapy works by developing a strong therapeutic alliance with both individuals. It increases a couple’s ability to deal with conflict, helps them resolve old problems, and creates a deeper sense of emotional, physical and sexual intimacy and safety.
Emotionally Focused Therapy is not a quick fix for relationship problems but offers consistent and lasting positive change. It is one of only two theories of couples therapy approved by the American Psychological Association and is a method practiced throughout the world.
The EFT Process
Stage 1: Tracking Your Communication Patterns
At this stage we help clients identify the negative patterns and underlying emotions that are causing havoc in their relationship. Conflict will lessen as compassion, understanding and trust begin to grow.
Stage 2: Developing Healthy Communication
This stage is where true growth begins to occur. Clients work through old negative beliefs and insecurities that have kept them stuck in dysfunctional patterns. Clients develop an awareness of deeper feelings and learn how to ask to get their needs met in the relationship. Clients begin to feel safe, cared for, and supported as their relationship helps to heal old wounds and becomes a safe haven for emotional support.
Stage 3: Solidifying Changes
Clients will be able to use new healthy communication techniques to address old challenges and unresolved issues. They will become connected emotionally and physically as a couple and will embrace a new found level of intimacy.
