What is EFT? Emotion Focused Couple Therapy explained

EFT is a model for couple work which draws on attachment and systemic thinking. Devised by Susan Johnson it has become widely used around the world. Outcome studies and couples’ own feedback suggest that it is an effective and user-friendly model. The central focus of the day will be helping practitioners to recognise a pursuer-withdrawer cycle. We will work on understanding how to de-escalate the cycle and recruit both partners to the idea that the cycle – rather than their partner – is the enemy.
 
The day will include PowerPoint, discussion and practical small group exercises to work on skills. We will explore these themes:

• The attachment theory which underpins EFT.
• The concept of the cycle that keeps couples bound to their particular pattern of conflict.
• Discerning the primary emotions, the self-talk and the reactive behaviours which make up the cycle.
• How EFT uses ‘enactments’ to promote bonding.
• How different configurations of attachment patterns play out – with the pursuer/ withdrawer pattern being the most common.

This day will provide an initial insight into EFT but it will not enable participants to become practitioners. There will be guidance about how counsellors can set about a full training in this model.