Emotionally Focused Therapy

What makes Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy effective?

• EFT is based on one of the most accepted theories in psychology

Attachment Theory, the theory upon which EFT is founded, is one of the most prolific and accepted theories within the entire field of psychology having been studied and proven extensively. The availability and consistency of our caregivers creates a lasting imprint on how we view the world and others in it. Our “attachment history” begins at birth and impacts us the rest of our lives significantly impacting our most intimate adult relationships.

• EFT helps the therapist stay neutral with a couple

Both partners feeling trust and alliance with the therapist is crucial to making any progress in couples therapy. It’s imperative that no one feels like the “bad guy.” Because of EFT’s focus on behaviors being driven by attachment longings, EFT provides a way to help both partners feel safe to open up and talk about difficult topics.

• EFT integrates neuroscience

EFT utilizes what we know about how our brain works and how we respond internally to threats. Knowing some basic information about the brain helps us understand how and why we react certain ways during arguments (like when we escalate into anger or retreat into shut down) and what we need to do to help a couple find their way out of these patterns.

• EFT creates deeper change

EFT is an approach to gain access to understanding of self needs for care and intimacy, or “secure attachment.” Therefore, success with this approach means a deep shift in the ability to be vulnerable and signal clearly to your partner in order to receive love and ensure stability and connection.