Emotionally focused therapy for couples (EFT; Johnson 2005) is a respected, well-researched therapy that is remarkably effective for building safe, rewarding marriages. It is especially useful when one or both partners have experienced childhood trauma, and when both partners are committed to strengthening their marriage. EFT is not about blaming or proving who’s right. It is about strengthening the connection.

Understandably, trauma survivors often lack resources to deal with the echoes of childhood trauma that contaminate their marriage. They often:

EFT teaches new, constructive behaviors. More importantly, EFT addresses attachment patterns and needs, and shows partners how to get past the bickering and open their hearts to love. Here’s what can happen.

Understanding

Initially, partners identify what has brought them closer, what damages their relationship, and what they hope for their relationship. They come to understand how unfulfilled attachment needs drive common conflict patterns.........

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