Practicing Emotionally Focused Therapy online: Calling all relationships

J Marital Fam Ther. 2021 Apr;47(2):424-439. doi: 10.1111/jmft.12507. Epub 2021 Mar 18.

Abstract

In the midst of a global pandemic, couples are dealing a range of impacts that call for a cohesive unit while the virus frays at the edges of our most important relationships. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is an evidence-based approach to working with relationships rooted in attachment theory. As a process-oriented psychotherapy, EFT is an ideal approach to working with relationships during this pandemic helping to solidify an "in it together" approach required to survive both as a couple and the pandemic. In this paper, we briefly review the adaptations for moving a couple therapy practice online through an EFT lens, drawing on an EFT macro-intervention called the "Tango" as a focus in this process. We conclude the paper with a case example providing the reader with an illustration of the process and ideas for what to pay attention to when working online with a couple from an EFT perspective.

MeSH terms

  • Couples Therapy*
  • Emotion-Focused Therapy*
  • Humans