Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) is an evidence-based treatment approach that is based on the idea that how we understand our emotions guides how we live. EFT helps individuals learn how to effectively identify, understand, use, and manage emotions in healthy ways. According to EFT, emotions can be maladaptive (or harmful) if they make us feel stuck, depressed , or anxious . Additionally, EFT believes that our emotions act as signals, highlighting what is important and what we need. Therefore, it can be important and helpful to look deeper into what these emotions are trying to tell us. EFT relies on four assumptions about our emotions: 

• Emotions are experienced physically 
• Emotions cause physiological changes in our bodies 
• Emotions influence our thinking 
• Emotions can guide our future action 

During EFT, therapists work with individuals to connect with all aspects of emotions including thoughts, beliefs, metaphors, physical sensations, stories, needs, and motives. EFT is often done in individuals but can also be used with couples and families.

EFT for Couples 

In Emotion-Focused Couples Therapy, therapists work with couples to become more aware of emotional responses, underlying attachment patterns, and identity needs, as well as helping couples to communicate more effectively. 

EFT for Families 

Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), therapists work with families to empower parents to help children process emotions and learn how to repair relationship wounds.