What is EFT couples therapy?
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), sometimes called Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), focuses on the improvement of the connection between partners. It is a very effective treatment method; more than 71% of couples find that they have a closer bond after EFT couples therapy.
EFT couples therapy enables you to understand your own needs and reactions, and those of your partner. This therapy helps you to strengthen your mutual bond and to become accessible again for each other. During the therapy we pay attention to interaction patterns that bring pain and distance to your relationship, and you learn to influence these patterns. EFT couples therapy is so accessible and practical that couples can overcome their patterns after just a few sessions.
How does EFT couples therapy work?
During the EFT couples therapy sessions I will guide you in overcoming your negative interaction patterns. You will learn to communicate your need for bonding and the fears that you experience upon a lack of bonding. This enables you to address your emotional needs and those of your partner. EFT couples therapy has three phases:
The 1st phase: de-escalation phase
The first EFT therapy phase is the de-escalation phase. This phase clarifies the negative interaction pattern. During this phase you will learn to recognise the pattern and to acknowledge your own and your partner’s role within this pattern.
The 2nd phase: connection phase
The second EFT therapy phase is the connection phase. During this phase you learn to express your mutual bonding needs and bonding fears, and how to deal with these needs. This creates a new emotional connection within the relationship that offers safety and changes the relationship for the better.
The 3rd phase: consolidation phase
The third EFT therapy phase is the consolidation phase. In this phase, you will learn to find new solutions for old problems. You will have a better grip on your relationship. If you revert to the old pattern, you can easily take a step back to phase one.
How does EFT couples therapy differ from other forms of therapy?
More common forms of couples therapy often focus on superficial aggravations and the communication between you as a couple. It has been made evident, however, that dealing with the mutual irritations and being able to talk to each other are not enough. EFT couples therapy focuses on the bonding between you and your partner. To what extent do you dare to be emotionally dependent on each other and connected to each other?
More about EFT couples therapy
For more information and news about EFT couples therapy, please visit the ICEEFT website. On this website you will find more information about the scientific research that proves that EFT is a form of therapy where couples seldom relapse after the completion of their therapy.