What is EFT?

Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) is a structured, evidence-based approach to couples work developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. It grows out of attachment theory, the idea that a need for safe, secure connection is fundamental to human wellbeing rather than a sign of dependency or weakness.

EFT focuses on the cycle a couple is caught in, that self-repeating pattern of pursuit, withdrawal, conflict, or emotional distance that plays out between partners, often without either person fully understanding why it keeps happening. Rather than targeting individual arguments, EFT works to help partners identify the deeper fears and needs driving those patterns, and to create the kind of emotional safety that allows real connection to happen.

EFT is one of the most extensively researched approaches in couples therapy, with strong evidence for its effectiveness, including with couples in significant distress. Research indicates that over 70% of couples undergoing EFT transition from distress to recovery, with approximately 90% demonstrating significant improvement.

Why choose EFT?

EFT offers a clear, structured path to transforming both emotional health and relationships. With consistently strong outcomes and evidence of long-term effectiveness, it is widely considered a gold standard in couples therapy. The changes couples make in EFT tend to last, because the work addresses underlying emotional patterns rather than just surface conflicts, so the improvements hold up over time.

If you're looking to strengthen your relationship, improve emotional wellbeing, and create real and lasting change, EFT provides a proven framework for doing that.

How is EFT different from other approaches to couples therapy?

Many approaches focus primarily on communication skills or problem-solving. EFT goes deeper, working with the emotional underpinnings of conflict and helping partners understand not just what they argue about, but why those arguments feel so threatening. The goal is a more secure emotional bond, not just better conflict management.

I offer a free 15-minute video or phone consultation, a no-pressure way to talk through what's going on and see whether working together feels right.