Couples Therapy Los Angeles

What is Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)?

“EFT is a well-known humanistic approach to psychotherapy formulated in the 1980s and developed in tandem with the science of adult attachment, a profound developmental theory of personality and intimate relationships. This science has expanded our understanding of individual dysfunction and health as well as the nature of love relationships and family bonds.

Attachment views human beings as innately relational, social and wired for intimate bonding with others. The EFT model prioritizes emotion and emotional regulation as the key organizing agents in individual experience and key relationship interactions.

EFT is best known as a cutting edge, tested and proven couple intervention, but it is also used to address individual depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress (EFIT – Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy) and to repair family bonds (EFFT – Emotionally Focused Family Therapy).”

Why should I choose a therapist who uses EFT as their treatment modality?

EFT has been validated by over 30 years of empirical research.

EFT is based on clear, explicit research-based conceptualizations of individual growth, health and dysfunction, and relationship distress and adult love.

EFT is collaborative and respectful of clients, combining experiential Rogerian techniques with structural systemic interventions.

Change strategies and interventions are specified.

EFT has been applied to many different kinds of problems and populations.

Do I Need Couples Therapy?

It’s common to wonder whether couples therapy is the right step for your relationship. The truth is, couples therapy can be beneficial at any stage of a partnership—whether you’re dating, engaged, or have been together for decades. Here are some signs that couples therapy might be a good choice for you:

• Communication Challenges: You often feel misunderstood or struggle to express your needs and feelings to each other. Conversations may frequently turn into arguments or result in emotional disconnection.

• Emotional Distance: You feel like you’re growing apart or no longer share the same level of closeness and intimacy as before.

• Conflict Resolution Issues: Disagreements seem to repeat without resolution, or you avoid addressing issues altogether for fear of conflict.

• Life Transitions: You’re navigating major changes such as marriage, parenthood, relocation, or career shifts, and they’re affecting your connection.

• Loss of Physical Intimacy: Physical affection and sexual connection have decreased or become a source of tension.

• Trust Issues: You’re struggling with feelings of doubt, insecurity, or suspicion, whether due to past betrayals or current concerns.

• Different Goals or Values: You and your partner have different visions for the future, or conflicting values related to finances, parenting, or lifestyle.

• Healing from Infidelity or Betrayal: One or both partners are working through the emotional aftermath of infidelity or another form of broken trust.

• Blending Families: You’re adjusting to the dynamics of a blended family or co-parenting situation.

• Feeling “Stuck”: You feel like the relationship is stagnant, and you’re unsure how to move forward in a positive direction.

Remember: Seeking couples therapy doesn’t mean your relationship is failing. In fact, it’s a proactive step toward building a stronger and healthier bond. A trained couples therapist provides a safe, neutral space to address your concerns, develop better communication, and rediscover your connection.