About Emotionally Focused Therapy

This page highlights Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) and how the model began. For information about EFIT or EFFT, follow the links in the dropdown menu.

The EFT model is based on the belief that all human beings need safe, secure emotional connections in their intimate relationships and in their relationship with themselves. Emotionally Focused Therapy was developed in the 1980’s by Dr. Sue Johnson. It is a collaborative, non-blaming approach to working with individuals, couples, and families that has been supported by empirical research. Relationship distress results from a perceived threat to this connection.  An EFT therapist helps individuals, couples, and families stop repetitive negative interactions and find nurturance and support by strengthening their connects with other and self.


EFT is one of the most thoroughly researched, clearly delineated, and empirically validated approaches in the field of marriage counseling.  Research studies find that after 10-12 sessions, 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery, and 90% of couples show significant improvement.  EFT has also been shown to be an effective treatment for individuals, couples, and families coping with a variety of stressors, including infidelity, depression, chronic illness, grief and loss, and past trauma.  EFT has demonstrated effectiveness across various cultures, with traditional and nontraditional families, and with gay and lesbian couples families.

Sue Johnson on EFT

The International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (ICEEFT)

ICEEFT serves as a centre of excellence for the promotion of secure, resilient individuals and successful relationships between partners and within families. Our mission includes the further expansion and refinement of the Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) model through process and outcome research. Another central aspect of our mission is to educate health professionals and to increase public awareness about the efficacy of EFT and its role in strengthening relationship bonds.

Find Out More about ICEEFT

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