One of the approaches Couples Therapists offer to their clients is EFT or Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples. This is an evidence-based method for couples experiencing marital distress, including relationships where one partner suffers from chronic illness, post-traumatic stress and depression.
EFT focuses on developing emotional intelligence, which works very well with couples who need help. When you experience your emotions, you can know how you feel and what you want in certain situations.
With the use of EFT, you can make sense of what your emotions are, how to understand them and modify reactions when needed. EFT is wonderful for clients who need to address some difficult emotions, as they can do so in a safe and caring environment with professional guidance to deal with the process.
Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples uses research based on attachment in adults and distress in marriages and combines experiential Rogerian techniques and structured, systemic interventions. When negative cycles occur in relationships, there becomes a need for an effective method such as EFT.
EFT helps both partners reach a stage where they can create more positive cycles, which then makes the relationship feel safe and enriching rather than angst-ridden and volatile. This occurs when, in therapy, partners learn to express their needs and feelings better rather than following the typical criticize-defend or withdraw-pursue patterns that occur.
For example, where the woman may once state angrily in an argument, “You don’t care”, she can begin to speak out from her feelings with statements like “I need you to reassure me”. Men move from withdrawing behaviours and statements like “We can’t discuss this; I don’t want to fight” to “I want to learn to help you and be close”.
Couples can benefit significantly from EFT. They will, in particular, experience great relief as the recovery rate from marital stress is 70-73%. In just 10-12 sessions, there is a vast improvement seen. With EFT, you can find freedom from what is holding you back from enjoying meaningful, full, open interactions with others.
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