Dr Susan Johnson: Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy
What Is Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy?
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is a structured, short-term form of psychotherapy developed to help couples strengthen their emotional bond, improve communication, and resolve conflict. Founded by Dr. Sue Johnson in the 1980s, EFT is grounded in attachment theory, which emphasizes the importance of emotional connection and security in adult relationships.
Core Principles of EFT
Attachment Theory: EFT is based on the idea that humans are biologically wired for emotional attachment. Our relationships with loved ones serve as a primary source of safety, comfort, and support.
Emotional Awareness: The therapy encourages partners to become more aware of their own and each other's emotional needs and patterns.
Restructuring Interactions: EFT aims to help couples recognize negative cycles of interaction, understand their underlying emotions, and develop new, more supportive ways of relating.
How Does EFT Work?
EFT typically unfolds in three stages:
1. De-escalation: The therapist helps the couple identify and understand the negative patterns and cycles that lead to conflict and emotional distance.
2. Changing Interaction Patterns: Partners are guided to express their deeper emotional needs and vulnerabilities, fostering empathy and responsiveness.
3. Consolidation: The couple learns new ways to interact, communicate, and support each other, building a stronger, more resilient relationship.
Goals of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy
Enhance emotional attachment and closeness
Improve communication and conflict resolution
Address emotional injuries and strengthen trust
Build a secure foundation for lasting intimacy
Who Can Benefit From EFT?
EFT is effective for couples experiencing distress, frequent arguments, emotional disconnection, or those recovering from betrayals such as infidelity. It is also beneficial for couples who wish to deepen their intimacy and understanding of each other, even if their relationship is not in crisis.
Why Choose Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy?
Research has shown that EFT is one of the most successful approaches for couples therapy, with high rates of improvement and lasting change. Its focus on emotional safety, empathy, and connection helps couples heal past wounds and develop healthier, more loving relationships.
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy provides a supportive space for partners to reconnect, understand one another, and build a stronger relationship. By addressing the emotional roots of conflict and fostering secure attachment, EFT empowers couples to move forward with greater resilience, intimacy, and trust.
