Couples Therapy

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT)

Couples therapy can be a powerful way of understanding and changing the patterns that keep you and your partner stuck. Often, couples find themselves caught in unhelpful cycles, whether that is ongoing conflict, withdrawal, or distance, that leave both people feeling frustrated and disconnected. Rather than focusing on blame or “who is at fault,” therapy looks at the dynamics between you. By recognising and shifting these patterns, couples can improve communication, increase empathy, and discover healthier ways of relating to one another.

As your psychologist, I take a neutral stance, offering guidance without taking sides. Many couples worry that therapy will feel daunting or even confrontational, but my approach is warm and non-judgemental. This helps create a supportive environment where both partners can feel safe enough to share their experiences and begin to try out new ways of connecting.

The main approach I use is Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFCT). EFCT places the emotional bond at the heart of the work, helping couples uncover the vulnerable feelings that often lie beneath arguments. While disagreements may appear to be about day-to-day issues, underneath there are usually deeper needs such as reassurance, belonging, or fear of rejection. By slowing down conversations and tuning into these emotions, partners can begin to express themselves more openly and respond to one another with greater care and understanding.

EFCT is particularly effective for couples who feel caught in repeating cycles of conflict or distance. The aim is to build a more secure emotional connection, where both partners feel valued, supported, and truly seen. With this stronger foundation, couples are better able to navigate challenges together and cultivate lasting intimacy. Along the way, we clarify your shared goals and develop practical strategies to enhance collaboration, closeness, and resilience.

Evidence Behind the Therapy

"Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFCT) significantly improves emotion regulation and reduces relationship distress, with lasting effects observed in couples" (Panabad, Ghaffari, & Fadaei, 2024)

Johnson et al. (1999) found that 70-73% of couples recover from distress and relationship conflict in 10 to 12 sessions of EFCT.

Positive outcomes from EFCT are maintained, such as secure connections and reduced negative conflict, at two-years following treatment (Jacobson & Addis, 1993; Clothier et al., 2002).