What is EFT?

EFT or Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples is a well-validated, structured approach that is designed to help couples understand each other’s emotions and respond effectively to each other’s needs. It is based on adult attachment theory and is widely used as one of the most successful approaches to creating loving relationships and lasting bonds.

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In EFT, couples learn to identify their negative communication cycle, how to express deeper underlying emotions, reach towards each other, and be responsive in more loving and positive ways. When couples can clearly communicate and respond to attachment needs, it can create the safety, trust and support that couples long for.

 

What will we actually do at the workshop?

I will present information about love and attachment to help you make sense of the cycles of disconnection in which couples often find themselves. I will also show videos of actual couples working through common cycles of conflict, and ask you to privately engage in structured conversations/exercises with your partner. At times during the weekend, we will assemble as a group and have the opportunity to discuss your experience with the exercises. This group sharing is optional and no one is required at any time to share with the group.

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Is this workshop right for us?

This workshop is appropriate for couples who want to create a more loving bond – married, unmarried, the long married, or the recently married – anyone who wants to work on their relationship. Only a few situations would indicate that this workshop wouldn’t be the best approach right now:  where there is violence in a relationship, where there is active untreated addiction, or where there is an active affair.

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This workshop focuses on health and growth. It is geared toward couples looking to understand their patterns of communication and improve their bond. The goal is to help make sense of the strong emotions or distancing that happens when there is disconnection in your relationship. We are not trying to find out “who’s to blame,” but instead focusing on “how do we restore or deepen the connection?"  One thing that I love about the weekend experience is that you get to make a lot of progress and gain much more understanding in just two days, as opposed to traditional therapy.  

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Is group participation required at the workshop?

This educational workshop is not group therapy and there is no requirement for group participation. I understand that many people are very private and can be anxious about being in a group. 

When we are together as a group, the time is spent primarily with the workshop leaders presenting material or watching videos. Then, couples spread out in the space to have private couple conversations. There is an opportunity to share experiences afterwards with the group, with some people choosing to do so. Any group sharing is at your discretion and comfort level.

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What is the format of the workshop?

SCHEDULE

Saturday 9 AM-5 PM, and Sunday 9 AM-5 PM

Information presented to the group, videos, and private conversations with your significant other will be the format.  The Book, "Hold Me Tight" is the foundation for the material in the book.  It is recommended that you have the book and read the first part of the book on your own prior to the workshop.