What is EFT?

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is an approach to couples therapy that grows out of John Bowlby’s attachment theory, which recognizes that we are hardwired for strong emotional bonds with others. Bowlby’s research demonstrates that these secure bonds remain vital throughout our lives.​ Yet traumatic relationship histories and negative interaction cycles with our partners can make connecting difficult, and we often fall into defeating patterns of criticism, anger, or withdrawal.
EFT addresses these core issues in our most important relationships. Formulated by Drs. Sue Johnson and Les Greenberg, EFT is a highly researched, effective, evidence-based treatment, and is designed to help you create emotional safety with your partner. EFT understands that if you care about each other, you can also impact, frustrate, and upset each other. The aim of EFT is to help you learn not only how to be more open and trusting with each other, but also how to reach for each other to feel close. When you feel securely connected, you are more able to recognize and eventually to express your needs for love, support, and protection.
A substantial body of research outlining the effectiveness of EFT now exists. Research studies find that 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery and approximately 90% show significant improvements. EFT is being used with many different kinds of couples in private practice, university training centers, and hospital clinics, and many different cultural groups throughout the world. These distressed couples include partners suffering from depression, post-traumatic stress disorders, and chronic illness. EFT is also used with families (EFFT) and individuals (EFIT).