What is Emotionally Focused Therapy?

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a client-centered experiential approach. It is based on the recognition that we are continuously constructing our reality based on the meaning we assign to emotions. EFT is deeply rooted in the attachment theory. According to it, ideally, our parents provided us with a sense of safety, both physical and emotional. This sense of safety then becomes a “secure base” which gives us courage to explore both the world outside and our internal world of emotions. Without a “secure base”, more rigid ways of managing the lack of physical and emotional safety have to be developed. When this happens, either access to emotions and their importance is denied or emotions are experienced as frightening and overwhelming. EFT helps with regaining emotional balance and healthy connections with others.

When can it be helpful?

EFT provides a useful framework in situations where we find it difficult to take risks in the outside world or to acknowledge the significance of the internal world of emotions within us. It pays particular attention to patterns of how we regulate emotions and connect with others. It also strives to create new corrective emotional experiences in therapy to ensure lasting changes in how we perceive ourselves and relate to others.

It can be helpful for individual and couple therapy, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment trauma, and complex trauma, 

What does it involve?

Since the EFT approach believes that it is the emotion that organizes how we construct internal experiences and interact with others, EFT therapists will look for ways to evoke and deepen emotions in sessions. Emotions are experienced in the body, so EFT therapists will also help clients identify physical sensations that accompany emotions and what actions they may suggest. This is in the service of creating corrective emotional experiences in the safety of the therapy hour.

How can I get started with Emotionally Focused Therapy?

If you are interested in Emotionally Focused Therapy to support your journey, you can reach out to book a free consultation with any of the therapists listed below.

Team Members that offer Emotionally Focused Therapy

Gloria
MSW

Natalia
M. Psy Student, ​RP (Qualifying)