The Benefits of Emotionally Focused Therapy
EFT is usually a short-term, structured approach to couples therapy formulated in the early 80's by Drs. Sue Johnson and Les Greenberg.
Strengths of Emotionally Focused Therapy
EFT is based on clear, explicit conceptualizations of relationship distress and adult love, supported by empirical research on the nature of relationship distress and adult connections.
EFT is collaborative and respectful of clients combining experiential Rogerian techniques with structural systemic interventions.
Change strategies and interventions are specified.
Key moves and moments in the change process have been mapped into nine steps and three change events.
EFT has been validated by over 20 years of empirical research. There is also research on the change processes and predictors of success.
EFT has been applied to many different kinds of problems and populations.
Goals of Emotionally Focused Therapy
(1) To expand and re-organize key emotional responses – the music of the attachment dance.
(2) To create a shift in partners' interactional positions and initiate new cycles of interaction.
(3) To foster the creation of a secure bond between partners.
Description adapted from www.iceeft.com
We've included two short YouTube clips of Dr. Sue Johnson, the founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy, discussing her book Hold Me Tight, and the most dangerous signs of relationship distress. Sue's work is on the forefront of couples therapy, and she describes some realities in relationships that may surprise you.
Travis has worked with Sue since the fall of 2006, and was supervised by her personally through advanced trainings in EFT. He recently completed a DVD training for couples therapists focused on the needs of gay and lesbian couples, where Sue shows her work with one gay couple, and one lesbian couple. Travis joins in the commentary with other EFT therapists about the couple. The DVD is one of the best examples of working effectively using Emotionally Focused Therapy.