A Simple Guide to Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFC-T)

Understanding How Emotionally Focused Couples Counselling Works in Couples Counselling.

Every relationship faces ups and downs, and sometimes we need a little help to navigate those tough moments. That’s where Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) comes in. It’s like a guide that helps couples understand their feelings better and build a strong, lasting connection. Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Understanding Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy:

Imagine your relationship as a dance, with both partners moving to the rhythm of emotions. EFT helps you understand this dance and change it for the better. Developed by Dr. Sue Johnson and Dr. Les Greenberg, EFT focuses on the idea that we all crave emotional bonds with our partners.

Key Principles of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy:

  1. Why Emotions Matter: EFT believes that emotions are at the heart of any relationship. It helps you see how your feelings impact your connection with your partner and shows you how to make those emotions work for your relationship.
  2. Three Steps to Change: EFT follows three simple steps. First, it helps you understand and calm down when things get heated. Then, it guides you and your partner to create new, positive ways of relating. Finally, it helps cement these changes for a stronger, more connected relationship.
  3. Breaking the Dance: Think of the arguments or disagreements in your relationship as a dance. EFT helps you both recognize and change the steps in this dance, so you can break free from negative patterns and create a happier connection.
  4. Feelings Matter: EFT teaches you that your feelings are important and valid. It shows you how to express them in a way that helps your partner understand you better, leading to a more loving and connected relationship.

Benefits of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy:

  1. Talk More: EFT helps you talk to your partner more effectively. By focusing on what you feel deep down, you can have more meaningful and understanding conversations.
  2. Fixing Fights: When disagreements happen, EFT gives you tools to handle them better. You’ll learn to address differences in a way that brings you closer rather than pushing you apart.
  3. Lasting Change: EFT isn’t just a quick fix. It aims to make lasting changes in how you and your partner relate to each other. The skills you learn stick with you, making your relationship stronger over time.

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is like a friend guiding you through the twists and turns of your relationship. By focusing on your feelings and understanding the dance of emotions, EFT helps you build a love that stands strong through the years. As you and your partner embrace this journey, you’ll discover a renewed closeness, deeper understanding, and a relationship that thrives and lasts.

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Get in contact if you’re seeking counselling for yourself, or you and your partner.