Family Counselling & Therapy

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a core approach in my counselling work. It is an evidence-based approach that is used to help couples, families, and individuals.

Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) is a type of therapy that supports parents and children in improving how they relate to each other. It is based on attachment science and focuses on helping families break out of negative patterns, so they can reconnect in a way that supports the child’s emotional wellbeing, resilience, and growth.

The process of change in EFFT happens in three main stages:

• Stage 1: Understanding the Cycle
  We begin by helping you and your child notice the negative cycles of communication that are causing disconnection or distress. Parents are supported in taking the first steps to shift these patterns.
   
• Stage 2: Building Connection
  The child is supported in sharing deeper feelings and needs, while the parent is supported in responding in ways that strengthen emotional safety, connection, and trust.
   
• Stage 3: Strengthening the Relationship
  Together, you work on new ways of relating that help resolve old problems and create lasting, positive patterns. The goal is to deepen your bond and build a relationship based on trust, closeness, and emotional security.
   

EFFT starts with an assessment phase that includes one or two initial sessions with the whole family, followed by separate individual sessions with the parent(s) and child. EFFT can be helpful for families with teenagers or adult children, and can also work well with younger children who are comfortable with talking about their emotions.