Emotion focused therapy

EFT can be helpful for a broad range of psychological issues. Its strength lies in its adaptability and universal appeal, given that everyone experiences emotions to varying degrees and in various contexts. Some of the typical applications of EFT include:

Depression
Anxiety Disorders
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Interpersonal Issues and Relationship Conflicts
Eating Disorders
Borderline Personality Disorder

EFT is particularly helpful for those who struggle with understanding, managing, or expressing their emotions. For individuals experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety, EFT can help by allowing them to explore the foundations of their distress, and help them identify negative patterns of emotion regulation and develop healthier ways of managing emotions. Similar to trauma survivors, it can allow them to process their experiences and reduce their distress in a safe environment. EFT is also highly effective in couples therapy, as it can support couples understand and reshape their emotional responses to one another, promoting healthier interactions and more fulfilling relationships.

As with any other therapy, EFT sessions are tailored to the client’s unique needs and requirements. The first session will always involve understanding the client’s current emotional state and the issues they wish to address. The therapist will ask questions to identify patterns of emotion regulation and pinpoint areas to target within therapy. After this assessment session, EFT typically follows by helping the client become more aware of their emotions. The therapist may use techniques such as mindfulness exercises, visualization, and guided imagery to encourage emotional awareness. Once the client has gained a deeper understanding of their emotions, they will work towards transforming these emotions by reframing or altering emotional responses that may be causing them distress. This could involve techniques like “empty-chair” work (a conversation with an imagined person or part of oneself) or “two-chair” work (a conversation between two parts of oneself). The final stage of therapy involves integrating these new emotional experiences into the client’s self-concept and life narrative. The therapist helps the client develop strategies to maintain these changes throughout different contexts of the client’s life.

If you would like to talk to someone about EFT sessions, please get in touch with the Private Therapy Clinic on Whatsapp message at: +447511116565 email, chat bot or book online to arrange an appointment.

Greenberg, L. (2004). Emotion–focused therapy. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, 11(1), 3–16. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.388