Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Table of Contents: EFT
- What is EFT?
- How Does EFT Work?
- Who Can Benefit from EFT?
- Our Unique EFT Approach
- What to Expect in EFT Sessions
- EFT Beyond Sessions | Strengthening Bonds Daily
- FAQs About EFT
What is Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)?
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a research-backed psychotherapy designed to strengthen emotional bonds and improve relationships. Rooted in attachment theory, EFT helps individuals, couples, and families identify negative interaction patterns, express unmet emotional needs, and create more profound, secure connections.
A Gold-Standard Therapy for Relationships
Recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the International Centre for Excellence in EFT (ICEEFT), EFT boasts a 70–75% success rate in repairing relationships and reducing distress (2023 meta-analysis).
Key Evidence-Based Outcomes
- Couples Therapy: 90% report significant improvement in relationship satisfaction (ICEEFT, 2024).
- Depression & Anxiety: 60% reduction in symptoms when linked to relational stress.
- Trauma Recovery: EFT helps rebuild trust after infidelity or betrayal with a 65% success rate.
How EFT Differs from Other Therapies
Unlike CBT (focused on thoughts) or DBT (focused on emotional regulation), EFT targets emotional responsiveness and attachment security, making it ideal for resolving relational conflicts and fostering intimacy.
How Does EFT Work?
EFT follows three structured stages to transform relationship dynamics:
Stage | Goal | Example |
De-escalation | Identify negative cycles (e.g., "pursue-withdraw") | “Why do fights often end in silence?” |
Restructuring Bonds | Express vulnerable emotions & needs | “I feel lonely when you work late.” |
Consolidation | Create new, positive interaction patterns | “Let’s schedule weekly check-ins.” |
Core Techniques:
- Reflecting Emotions: Therapists mirror feelings to foster validation.
- Tracking Cycles: Map out how conflicts escalate (e.g., criticism → defensiveness).
- Attachment Interventions: Rebuild trust through emotional accessibility.
Modern Adaptations:
- Online EFT: 85% efficacy for virtual couples sessions (Journal of Marital Therapy, 2024).
- EFT for Individuals (EFIT): Address attachment wounds impacting self-worth.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Tailored approaches for LGBTQ+, multicultural, and blended families.
Who Can Benefit from EFT?
EFT is effective for:
Relationship Challenges
- Couples: Communication breakdown, infidelity, intimacy issues.
- Families: Parent-child conflict, sibling rivalry, divorce adjustment.
- Individuals: Fear of abandonment, social anxiety, low self-esteem.
Mental Health Conditions
- Depression/Anxiety rooted in relational stress.
- PTSD from emotional neglect or betrayal trauma.
- Attachment disorders in children/adults.
Life Transitions
- Prenatal/postpartum relationship strain.
- Blending families or navigating empty-nest syndrome.
- Career changes impacting work-life balance.
Is EFT Right for You?
Choose EFT if you:
- Feel stuck in repetitive arguments or emotional distance.
- Struggle to express needs or fear vulnerability.
- Want to heal from betrayal, grief, or past relational trauma.
- Seek deeper intimacy and trust in relationships.
Our Unique EFT Approach
At Evolution Therapies, we don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Our Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is meticulously customized to address your unique emotional landscape and relational goals. Our approach helps you:
- Couples: Reignite emotional safety, rebuild trust, and restore passion.
- Families: Repair ruptures, foster secure parent-child bonds, and resolve sibling conflict.
- Individuals: Heal attachment wounds from past trauma or neglect.
Integrative Methods for Lasting Change
- Attachment-Based Coaching: Strengthen emotional availability.
- Mindfulness Integration: Enhance present-moment connection.
- Gottman Techniques: Complement EFT with communication tools.
What to Expect in EFT Sessions
First Session
- Assessment of relationship history and emotional triggers.
- Identification of negative cycles (e.g., "criticize → withdraw").
- Collaborative goal-setting for therapy.
Duration & Outcomes
- Typical Timeline: 8–20 sessions for couples; 12+ for deep-seated trauma.
- Results You'll See:
- Reduced conflict and improved communication.
- Renewed emotional intimacy and trust.
- Greater confidence in expressing needs.
EFT Beyond Sessions | Strengthening Bonds Daily
Relationship-Building Exercises:
- Hold Me Tight® Conversations: Structured dialogues to express fears and desires.
- Daily Appreciation Rituals: Share one gratitude per day.
- Emotional Check-Ins: 10-minute nightly talks without distractions.
Tools & Resources:
- Books: Hold Me Tight by Dr. Sue Johnson (founder of EFT).
- Apps: Lasting (evidence-based couples app).
- Workshops: Virtual EFT webinars for skill reinforcement.
Schedule your free 15-minute consultation with any of our therapists today!
FAQs About EFT
What is EFT therapy good for?
EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) helps improve relationships, manage emotions, and heal past trauma.
Does EFT work for trauma?
Yes! EFT helps process and heal emotional wounds from past traumatic experiences.
Which is better, EMDR or EFT?
EMDR is excellent for processing trauma, while EFT focuses on emotions and relationships—both are effective but serve different needs.
What are the side effects of EFT ?
Some people feel emotional release or temporary discomfort, which usually leads to relief and healing.
CONTACT US
For general questions or to learn more about our treatment services, please contact us and we will get back to you as quickly as possible. If you would like to schedule an initial consultation, please get started here.