What is emotionally focused therapy (EFT)?
Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is a treatment developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. Sometimes called EFT therapy, this reflective approach often focuses on the connection between emotional responses and physical needs in relationships. It may help you with control and navigating unhelpful emotions. Emotion focused therapy primarily focuses on adult relationships, including marital distress and relationships with family members, as well as secure attachment and bonding.
The core principles of emotionally focused therapy (EFT) hold that short-term therapy can change problematic interpersonal relationships, improve negative interaction patterns, and help individuals deal with an insecure attachment bond.
A substantial body of EFT research shows that this therapeutic approach is highly effective, and EFT patients can demonstrate remarkable improvement. EFT can be explored in person or through online methods. EFT can be either an individual therapy experience or undertaken with others; EFT can be a way to repair family bonds, while emotionally focused couples therapy can be a helpful couple intervention that may help both people with increasing awareness of their feelings and restructuring interactions with each other.
EFT links emotions and your health
EFT is a step-by-step active process
EFT typically includes nine steps. During an eft session, individuals, couples, or families may explore the experience and corresponding behaviors, which could help identify roles played in relationships. The effect of specific actions on the connection might also be discussed.
In couples therapy, the eft therapist may assess how a couple interacts. The counselor may develop and encourage a change process to form a secure base and stronger adult attachment bonds between the individuals. Negative cycle interactions are de-escalated and changed through this method. Therapeutic approaches to EFT interventions with couples typically involve providing a safe haven where couples can have a non-judgmental, open discussion and can express their feelings without fear.
At the beginning of EFT, you may identify primary concerns in a relationship and establish the triggers for conflict. You may discuss arguments, attachment theory, and the process of coming to an agreement. At this stage, the counselor might identify any fears and unpleasant feelings contributing to negativity or conflict. EFT practitioners may help you describe your desires and come up with new ways to see negative feelings. Your therapist may also recommend resources like the Hold Me Tight book, which discusses EFT couples and family therapy options.
Next, the counselor might help a couple change negative patterns by allowing them to voice their feelings. Distressed couples are then taught how to express and accept the other party's needs. The final stage is when the couples are shown new communication methods to voice their problems and develop new solutions. Finally, the couple may learn how to use their newly acquired skills outside the counseling session.
ETF may improve your romantic relationships
Emotionally focused couples therapy is often one of the most effective methods of reducing conflict in relationships and may help couples confront communication issues. EFT couple therapy may be utilized for the following conflicts:
Intimacy issues
Insecure attachment
Commitment issues
Difficulty communicating
Emotional suppression
Misunderstandings
Marital conflict
Divorce
Differing values
Impulse control
In many instances, when couples deal with significant relationship concerns, they experience anger and resentment. Through EFT, couples may become more aware of their feelings, the effect of their actions on the relationship, and how they can overcome conflict and communicate in a healthy way.
Based on attachment theory
Emotionally focused therapy applies principles from attachment theory. As outlined in a book called Attachment theory in practice: Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) with individuals, couples, and families by Johnson, S.M., attachment styles formed in infancy later affect how individuals bond as adults. The healthiest attachment style is secure attachment. Individuals who struggle with insecure attachment styles can work toward a more secure attachment style through therapy. The International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy states that EFT is “uniquely capable of establishing and restoring supportive bonds among individuals, couples, and families.”
Therapy may help you feel self-reliant
Emotionally focused therapy may be used to work with individuals. It can help someone become more self-assured or confident in relationships. This focus therapy may also help individuals expand and broaden their responses in their key relationships.
If an individual has attachment issues, trauma, or a personality disorder, this EFT may benefit them by helping them notice their feelings in response to triggers and memories.
Therapy might improve family communication
Families may utilize Emotionally Focused Therapy. Therapists may work to assess the underlying feelings in the family's interaction patterns and help them communicate based on these observations. EFT may improve the family process for navigating conflict. It may help each family member understand how to compromise and validate others in the family. In the family setting, EFT may be valuable in dealing with complex situations such as divorce, blended families, or behavioral problems in teens.
Strengths of EFT
EFT may help clients increase their awareness and learn how to deal with their hidden feelings instead of avoiding them. EFT is performed by certified counselors who typically undergo specialized training at university training centers and are required to stay updated on the latest empirical research around developing EFT techniques. Additionally, studies support the effectiveness of EFT for individuals, families, and couples. Though EFT is commonly used for improving adult relationships, it can also be effective for treating mental health problems such as PTSD.
Limitations
Some other therapists have criticized EFT, arguing that more research is needed to determine its effectiveness. This critique is not uncommon for a therapeutic technique – within the field of psychological research, there are often ongoing discussions and studies addressing the efficacy of various treatments.
EFT focuses primarily on relational and attachment-based difficulties. It may not benefit those seeking support for individual concerns or non-interpersonal conflicts. Additionally, the process of understanding your emotions better is typically a lifelong learning endeavor, so understand that EFT will likely not “fix” all of your relationships. Discuss your options with a medical professional when making a choice about which technique is best for you.
Finding EFT providers
There are many ways of finding an EFT counselor, whether in non-public practice or otherwise. When searching for a therapist, ask about a potential counselor's training and level of education regarding EFT. EFT therapists often understand that knowing their background can be crucial to patients and may be willing to talk with you about their area of study.
If you face barriers to treatment, such as distance, costs, or availability, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp may benefit you. With online therapy, you won't have to commute to the clinical practice or try to fit your appointment in with a busy schedule. You can meet a therapist anytime, including at night or early in the morning. Studies show that online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy in treating many conditions. Additionally, if you're looking for online couples counseling, platforms like Regain may offer value.
Takeaway
If you, your relationship, or your family are struggling with interpersonal concerns or attachment, EFT might be rewarding. EFT often focuses on attachment styles, emotions, and behavior and how these can impact your body and mind. If you're ready to start, consider contacting a counselor.
What is EFT good for?
This therapy is particularly effective in addressing a variety of emotional and interpersonal issues.
EFT is known for its effectiveness in treating depression, interpersonal trauma, and relationship distress. EFT can help individuals explore and change maladaptive processes that may contribute to depressive symptoms. By focusing on controlling and transforming emotions, EFT facilitates a more adaptive and healthy emotional response, leading to improved mood and functioning.
How successful is EFT?
EFT has gained recognition for its efficacy, particularly in its ability to help individuals learn self-control and change processes related to emotional experiences. EFT's success is largely attributed to its focus on emotions central to identity development, decision-making, and relationship-building.
According to clinical synthesis, the success of EFT lies in its nuanced approach to processing and its focus on attachment-related dynamics, making it a promising tool for individuals seeking to understand and change experiences and relational patterns.
What is CBT vs EFT?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and emotion-focused therapy are two different approaches to psychotherapy that have gained popularity in recent years. While both modalities aim to improve individuals' well-being, their underlying principles and techniques differ.
As a behavioral modality, CBT is more structured and directive than EFT, which takes a more exploratory and process-oriented approach. Unlike CBT, which focuses on changing thoughts and behaviors, EFT targets the underlying experiences that give rise to these thoughts and behaviors. EFT seeks to help individuals gain awareness, acceptance, and transformation, leading to long-lasting changes in their thinking and behavior.
Is EFT a recognized therapy?
Yes, EFT is a recognized form of therapy that has gained recognition and support from the mental health community. It has been extensively researched and has shown promising results in treating many emotional and interpersonal issues.
EFT is recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) as a clinical technique, and many mental health practitioners are trained in EFT.
Are there any negative effects of EFT?
Overall, the potential negative effects of EFT are minimal compared to its potential benefits and long-term positive outcomes. It is essential for individuals considering EFT to talk openly with their provider about any concerns or difficulties they may encounter during this process. With proper support and guidance, EFT can be a safe and effective way to address concerns and enhance overall well-being.
How does EFT heal trauma?
EFT has been shown to be effective in healing trauma through its focus on processing and attachment dynamics. Trauma can lead to deep-rooted wounds, causing individuals to struggle with managing their feelings and relationships. EFT seeks to help individuals identify and process past experiences, particularly those related to attachment injuries or unmet needs.
How long does it take for EFT to work?
EFT is not a one-size-fits-all approach, and the time it takes for this to work may vary for each individual. Some may see results in a matter of weeks, while others may require more time to achieve their goals. Trusting the process and continuing to work with a counselor who can support and guide individuals throughout their journey toward healing is important.
How long does EFT usually take?
An EFT session typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the provider's approach and individual's needs. The length of therapy can vary significantly from person to person, as it depends on various factors, such as the complexity of concerns, personal readiness for change, and engagement in therapy.
In some cases, individuals may need more therapy time than initially anticipated to achieve a desired outcomes. This is especially true for those dealing with complex issues or who have experienced significant trauma.
What are four types of EFT?
Making sense of feelings and processing them effectively is key to EFT's success. Four types of EFT exist to help individuals address various concerns and relationship dynamics.
- Individual EFT: This therapy focuses on helping individuals work through emotional concerns and achieve a greater sense of well-being. It involves one-on-one sessions with a counselor who can provide personalized support and guidance.
- Couples EFT: Some love relationships may be strained due to underlying emotional issues or attachment injuries. Couples EFT involves working with both partners to improve their relationship dynamics and strengthen an emotional connection.
- Family EFT: This type of therapy involves working with families to address unresolved emotional conflicts or concerns affecting a family's dynamic. Family EFT can help strengthen relationships and promote healthier communication and interaction methods.
- Group EFT: In group EFT, individuals with similar emotional concerns come together in a supportive environment to work through emotions. Group therapy can provide a sense of community and offer valuable insights from peers with similar struggles.
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