What is Emotionally Focused Therapy?
Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFT) is an approach developed by Dr. Sue Johnson and colleagues. The International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT) trains therapists in the model, and Dr. Johnson’s book Hold Me Tight introduced EFT to a general audience.
What are the core ideas?
ICEEFT says EFT “is grounded in attachment science, which highlights our very human need for safety and connection.” Attachment theory holds that adults, like children, need a secure emotional bond with the people closest to them. For how a specific therapist applies this, ask them.
What are EFT sessions like?
A Gottman Institute article contrasting the approaches describes EFT therapists as acting as a “secure base” so that a partner can take the risk of expressing vulnerable feelings and needs. Ask the therapist how they structure sessions.
Who may find it a good fit?
If you and your partner feel emotionally disconnected, or keep getting stuck in a pursue-withdraw pattern, you may want to ask an EFT therapist how the model works with that. If you want homework and skills practice, ask how much of that the therapist uses.
How do I find an EFT-trained therapist?
Training ranges from an introductory externship to certification. ICEEFT has its own “Find an EFT Therapist” directory. Once our listings open, you can filter by “Emotionally Focused Therapy”; therapists describe their training in their own words.
Official source
For training standards, certification and the organization's own description, see International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT). We are not affiliated with it.
Sources
- ICEEFT, Hold Me Tight and EFT (checked November 5, 2026)
- ICEEFT, home page (checked November 5, 2026)
- The Gottman Institute, blog: integrating Gottman Method and Sue Johnson's EFT (checked November 5, 2026)
Neutral overview for general education, not a recommendation of any method.