There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The most effective therapy for couples is based
on a couple’s unique circumstances, needs and their goals. However, here are a few effective approaches to couples’ therapy that has been validated in research and the literature.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): EFT is well established in the literate and research as an effective couples counselling approach. The EFT approach focuses on improving emotional communication between partners in a safe and supportive environment, helping them identify and express their feelings
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps couples identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that undermine a healthy relationship. This approach can be helpful but the therapeutic relationship and recognizing the importance of emotions and conflict resolution will deepen intimacy and reduce emotional stonewalling.
Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) for couples disguises itself as a couples therapy and not just couples counselling. That means this approach aims to heal the relationship and not just offer skills development and practical educational models to improve couples relationships.
The Gottman Method: Based on over 40 years of researching successful relationships, the Gottman Method helps couples strengthen their friendship, manage conflict, and create shared meaning.
Imago Relationship Therapy: Helping couples uncover the root causes of their conflicts and healing past wounds can occur with counselling that supports the teaching of effective and empathetic communicating.
4 Reasons Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a successful Type of Therapy
Emotion Focused: EFT is based on the idea that emotions are at the core of our experiences and relationships. In counselling, EFT focuses on helping couples identify and express their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. By creating a safe space, EFT helps couples break free from unhealthy patterns of communication creating new and enhanced, positive emotional bonds.
Evidence-Based. An evidence-based structured therapy approach, EFT has over 20 years of research showing its effectiveness. Numerous studies identify EFT effectiveness in treating a wide range of relationship issues, including but not limited to, communication difficulties, attachment challenges and infidelity.
Structured Approach. With a structured focus, EFT provides an approach to counselling that focuses on specific goals and objectives. A counsellor will help a couple to identify their negative patterns of communication and behavior, then guide the couple through a series of steps in order to create new and positive patterns and goal achievement.
Supportive and Non-Judgmental: A critical element to EFT therapy is the creation of a safe and supportive environment for couples where they can explore and identify their emotional experiences. It is vital a therapist is non-judgmental and works collaboration with a couple in order to help them achieve their goals.
