Couples Therapy: Relationship Support for Couples

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When working with couples, I utilize Emotionally Focused Couples therapy, an effective approach that is informed by attachment theory and combines systemic and humanistic methods. This model of therapy typically spans up to 25 sessions and focuses on enhancing relationship support. By fostering a more secure emotional bond, it leads to increased relationship satisfaction, intimacy, trust, and an overall sense of security with a partner.

Having a secure attachment is beneficial for our mental health and wellbeing. It enhances our self-esteem, tolerance, resilience, and our ability to relate to others. Through attachment informed therapy, you will begin to recognize how you react to each other and how your reactive behaviors can trigger attachment fears. This process is integral in relationship support, especially in the context of Emotionally Focused Couples therapy.

In our work together, I will observe how each of you process your experiences, particularly your emotional responses. Through Attachment Informed Therapy, we will create a visual model of your relationship that encourages you to move from isolation to reconnection.

There are 4 steps to the Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) Model.

In Stage 1, we work together to de-escalate the negative cycle you are in. We then progress to understanding the positions each of you take in this cycle. Next, we explore the deeper core emotions and how they relate to your attachment experiences.

In Stage 2, we focus on restructuring your emotional bond. Here, we understand why each of you has taken your respective positions, and we create new interactions that foster safety, acceptance, and security between partners.

In Stage 3, we consolidate what has been learned so that partners can safely solve problems and cope with differences, ensuring that you receive the necessary relationship support.

A common interactional pattern for couples in the context of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is that one partner adopts a withdrawer stance while the other partner takes on the role of a pursuer. Through the process of Attachment Informed Therapy, the withdrawer becomes more engaged and active in the relationship, re-engaging with their partner, while the pursuer learns to soften their approach and express their needs more effectively. This dynamic shift provides essential relationship support for both individuals.