Emotion-Focused Family Therapy
What is Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT)?
Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) is an extension of Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) that involves family members in the therapeutic process. It aims to empower parents and caregivers to play a primary role in their loved one's emotional healing and recovery. EFFT focuses on strengthening family relationships, improving emotional communication, and addressing relational patterns that contribute to emotional distress.
How EFFT Works
EFFT involves working with families to identify and address problematic emotional and relational patterns. Therapists teach family members how to support their loved ones emotionally, respond to emotional distress, and facilitate emotional healing. Techniques used include role-playing, emotion coaching, and creating corrective emotional experiences within the family context. The goal is to enhance the family's emotional resilience and improve their ability to navigate challenges together.
Conditions Treated by EFFT
EFFT is effective for a variety of emotional and relational issues within families, including:
Eating disorders
Anxiety and depression in children and adolescents
Behavioral problems
Family conflict
Trauma
Who Can Benefit from EFFT?
EFFT is suitable for families who want to play an active role in supporting their loved ones' emotional well-being and recovery. It is particularly beneficial for parents and caregivers who wish to strengthen their emotional bonds and improve their ability to respond to their family members' emotional needs. EFFT can be conducted with families of all shapes and sizes, including those dealing with chronic emotional issues or situational crises.