Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy: How to Strengthen Your Relationship
Estimated Read Time: 8 minutes
What Is Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT)?
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is like the relationship GPS you didn’t know you needed. It’s a proven approach to helping couples navigate emotional disconnection, miscommunication, and those nagging arguments over whose turn it is to do the dishes. Developed with a deep understanding of emotional bonding, EFT focuses on strengthening your emotional connection with your partner by identifying and reshaping negative interaction patterns.
Think of it as tuning up the "engine" of your relationship so it purrs like a dream again.
Where Did EFT Come From?
EFT was developed in the 1980s by Dr. Sue Johnson and Dr. Les Greenberg. Drawing from attachment theory (think: how we connect with our loved ones from cradle to partnerhood), EFT emphasizes the importance of secure emotional bonds. The therapy has been backed by extensive research, making it one of the most scientifically validated approaches for couples therapy.
Translation: It’s not just a passing trend—it’s got some serious academic street cred.
How Does EFT Work?
EFT helps couples identify the negative cycles they fall into during conflict. You know the ones: you fight, someone retreats, the silent treatment ensues, and the dog becomes the only one getting cuddles. EFT works to break these cycles by helping partners recognize their emotions, share them vulnerably, and respond to each other with empathy.
An EFT therapist guides you through three stages:
De-escalation: Identifying and stopping harmful patterns of interaction.
Restructuring Bonds: Sharing emotions and building trust.
Consolidation: Strengthening new, healthier patterns.
It’s like Marie Kondo-ing your relationship—if it doesn’t spark joy, we’re throwing it out (well, figuratively).
What Makes EFT Different from Other Types of Marriage Counselling?
Unlike some forms of couples therapy that focus primarily on communication techniques or behavioral changes, EFT dives deeper. It goes beyond surface-level issues to address the emotional undercurrents driving conflicts.
Where other approaches might tell you to use "I" statements or take turns talking (which are great but limited), EFT helps you understand why you’re feeling triggered in the first place. The result? A stronger foundation of emotional safety and connection.
Can Couples Therapy Actually Work?
Yes! Studies show that EFT has a success rate of up to 75% for distressed couples, with 90% experiencing significant improvement. Whether you're navigating trust issues, communication breakdowns, or just feeling like roommates instead of soulmates, EFT offers real, lasting change.
But it’s not magic—it requires effort, openness, and the willingness to sometimes feel uncomfortable. (Spoiler: growth is rarely cozy, but it’s so worth it!)
How Much Does Couples Counselling Cost?
The cost of couples therapy can vary, but in Canada, sessions typically range from $200 to $250. At Transformation Counselling, we offer competitive rates for couples therapy Online and in Kitchener-Waterloo with our highly trained EFT therapists. Our rates are between $170 to $200 per session.
Investing in your relationship is like maintaining a car—regular tune-ups are way cheaper than a total breakdown.
How Often Should You Go to Couples Therapy?
Most couples start with weekly sessions to build momentum and create lasting change. As progress is made, sessions may become bi-weekly or monthly. The timeline depends on your unique situation and goals.
At Transformation Counselling, we tailor the frequency of sessions to suit your needs. Remember, consistency is key—it’s not a sprint but a marathon toward healthier, happier love.
Where Can You Do Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy in Kitchener-Waterloo?
If you’re searching for couples therapy near me or marriage counselling near me, look no further than Transformation Counselling. Our experienced team of EFT-trained psychotherapists specializes in helping couples reconnect and thrive.
Whether you prefer in-person sessions or couples therapy online, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Serving the Kitchener-Waterloo community, we’re passionate about helping you rediscover the joy in your relationship.
Ready to Transform Your Relationship?
Your relationship deserves the best care, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy can help you build the connection you’ve been longing for. Don’t wait until you’re at a breaking point—take the first step toward a healthier, happier partnership today.
Book an appointment with one of our compassionate EFT couples therapists at Transformation Counselling. Our friendly admin team will match you with the perfect fit for your unique needs. Let’s start turning things around—your love story deserves a happy ending.
References
Johnson, S. M. (2004). The Practice of Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy: Creating Connection.
Greenberg, L. S., & Johnson, S. M. (1988). Relating Process To Outcome In Marital Therapy. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy.
ICEEFT: International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy