emotion focused therapy (EFT)

What is EFT?

EFT is a short term (8-20 sessions), structured approach to couples therapy formulated in the early 80's by Sue Johnson and Les Greenberg. The strategies and techniques of EFT are also used with families. A substantial body of research outlining the effectiveness of EFT now exists. This research suggests that EFT is associated with large treatment effect sizes. EFT appears to move couples from distress to recovery in 10-12 sessions for 70-75% of cases, and creates improvements in 90% of couples coming for therapy. The major contraindiction for EFT is on-going violence in the relationship. EFT has been used with many different kinds of couples in private practice, university training centers and hospital clinics. These distressed couples include partners suffering from disorders such as depression, post traumatic stress disorders and chronic illness.

Strengths of Emotionally Focused Therapy

·         EFT is based on clear, explicit conceptualizations of marital distress and adult love. These conceptualizations are supported by empirical research on the nature of marital distress and adult attachment.

·         Change strategies and interventions are specified.

·         The change process and change events have been mapped into nine steps and three change events.

·         EFT has been validated by 15 years of empirical research. There is also research on the change process and predictors of success.

·         EFT has been applied to many different kinds of problems and populations.