What is Emotion Focused Therapy?

Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) is an evidence-based approach that helps people understand, process, and transform their emotional experiences. It recognizes that one’s attachment patterns are closely linked to emotions; and that emotions are not just reactions, but inherently linked to one’s behaviour. Hence, this approach offers a valuable source of meaning and change. By working through emotions in a safe, supportive space, clients can create lasting change in their relationships, as well as improved emotional regulation and awareness. 

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There are two primary models known as EFT. While they share a common name and an emphasis on emotion, they offer distinct approaches:

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1. Emotion-Focused Therapy – developed by Dr. Leslie Greenberg, focuses on helping individuals access and process emotions to support personal healing and growth. It is an empirically supported, humanistic psychotherapy approach that emphasizes the centrality of emotion in human functioning and therapeutic change. EFT posits that emotions are fundamental to the construction of the self and are pivotal in guiding adaptive behavior. The therapy integrates principles from person-centered therapy, Gestalt therapy, and contemporary emotion theory to facilitate emotional processing.

 

Key components of EFT include:

• Emotion Awareness and Expression: Clients are encouraged to become aware of and express their emotions in a safe therapeutic environment.

• Emotion Regulation: EFT assists clients in developing strategies to regulate maladaptive emotions, enhancing emotional resilience.

• Transforming Emotion: The therapy focuses on transforming maladaptive emotions by accessing adaptive emotional responses, leading to meaningful change.​

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2. Emotionally Focused Therapy – developed by Dr. Sue Johnson, centers on strengthening emotional bonds and improving patterns of connection in personal relationships.This approach is grounded in a fusion of the attachment theory, systems theory and Gestalt therapy. Generally, EFT aims to identify and reorganize key emotional responses, work towards secure attachment patterns, understand past trauma and foster the creation of new, beneficial interaction patterns. 

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The therapy is organized into three stages:

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1. De-escalation: Identify negative interaction patterns, predominant concerns and underlying attachment issues.

2. Restructuring Interactions: Clients are encouraged to explore deeper, emotional needs. Clients are facilitated by the therapist to understand and better express their needs and emotions to practice self-acceptance.

3. Consolidation: Clients manage existing problems by applying new solutions. New communication patterns and strategies are developed to create healthier connections.

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EFT has been empirically validated and is recognized as an evidence-based approach for treating relational distress, with studies demonstrating its effectiveness across diverse populations.

 

Both models stated are widely respected and supported by decades of clinical research.

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How does EFT help?

EFT supports people in:

• Understanding, managing and expressing one’s emotions and needs

• Identifying patterns of emotional response that may no longer serve them

• Healing from emotional wounds rooted in past experiences

• Improving emotional resilience and connection in relationships

• Creates safer, more connected relationships

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In sessions, the therapist helps clients explore emotions that may feel overwhelming, stuck, or confusing. This makes space for clarity, change, and emotional growth.

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Who is EFT for?

Emotion Focused Therapy can be helpful for:

• Individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD or complex trauma

• People feeling stuck in recurring emotional patterns

• Those wanting to deepen self-understanding and emotional awareness

• Couples or families who want to improve their relationship and communication

• Anyone who is looking to improve how they relate to others

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EFT is used with individuals, couples, and families.