Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is an attachment-oriented, experiential therapy formulated in the early 1980s by Dr Susan Johnson. Originally a model for couples, EFT has now expanded to include treatment methods for individuals and families too.
EFT asserts that as humans we have an inherent need to feel connected to important others. When securely connected, we can thrive. When disconnection threatens, we become distressed and often get caught in rigid patterns of emotion and behaviour: our best attempts to regain a sense of acceptance, belonging, comfort or safety.
EFT seeks to understand these rigid, repetitive patterns, and – crucially – the deep fears and unmet needs that drive them. By helping clients see and step back from their negative cycles of interaction, EFT therapists invite and empower change: toward more secure, flexible patterns of reaching and responding as well as stronger emotional bonds with those that matter, resulting in increased connection and decreased distress.
EFT is an evidence-based treatment, with strong empirical support. For couples, research shows that that 70-75% of couples who complete an EFT treatment move from distress to recovery and approximately 90% show significant improvements in relationship satisfaction. Studies also indicate that these gains are maintained over time.
All therapists at Connections Count have specific training and experience in EFT. They are therefore well equipped to help you establish and improve your meaningful connections: with new ideas, with parts of yourself and with the people that matter to you. If you’d like to explore how EFT can help you, book a session now.
