Emotionally Focused Therapy

Couples are known for experiencing all sorts of emotions, especially when dealing with issues regarding dating or marriage. But when those displays of emotions or lack thereof of take a toll on the relationship for the worst, what type of alternatives can couples choose? For some, counseling is the best option. Counseling serves as a way to discuss particular issues that may interfere or hinder the relationship. Often time’s therapy causes couples to focus on the problem instead of resolution. In Emotional Focused Therapy clients are required to focus on change (Greenmam & Johnson, 2012). The Emotionally Focused procedure takes place over a series of stages even though the therapy sessions are brief. According to Johnson; (2004, 2008),

Stage II is known as the “Withdrawer Re-Engagement and Blamer Softening stage (Bradley & Furrow, 2004; Johnson, 2004).” This stage exemplifies how couples interact back and forth with one another emotionally (Gottman & Silver, 1994). Lastly, stage II illustrates how couples react to one another after they have received constructive criticism from therapy (Johnson, 2004; Johnson & Greenman, 2006). Research suggests that Emotionally Focused Therapy encompasses ideas from psychologist such as Carl Rodgers and Gestalt (Greenmam & Johnson, 2012). Both used theories, which go hand and hand such as empathy and emotional regard. (Greenmam & Johnson, 2012). This display of emotional regard prompts clients to recognize their feelings when undergoing emotional turmoil in a relationship (Greenmam & Johnson, 2012). Research also suggest that during therapy couples are required to

EFT is a powerful form of therapy for couples because it provides a blueprint for recognizing as well as voicing concerns between couples, but most of all it focuses on change. I believe this intervention is particularly useful because it is brief yet effective. It is also highly goal-oriented particularly when dealing with attachment issues. I believe that in order for therapy to be effective couples should focus on how they can counteract concerns together by focusing on the issues that need to be changed. That way couples can determine ways that might benefit each other in the long run. I also like the fact that EFT uses concepts much like therapist Carl Rodgers and Gestalt used, such as empathy and emotional regard. These two techniques throughout therapy set the tone for building a rapport between therapist and client and speak volumes in regards to treatment. Both are needed to provide insight into emotional feelings. It also acts in a positive manner, which enables couples to gain clarity, not to mention that each encounter allows clients to provide an initial framework for