The therapy process

Starting couples therapy with an EFT professional involves embarking on an adventure to individually self-(re)discover.

And this self-(re)discovery opens up millions of possibilities to reconnect with the person we chose to share our life with.

The therapy process begins with the couple deciding to find help (which is already a difficult step), and the therapist has a detailed map of the stages and tools to use to accompany the couple on their journey to reconnect and resolve the difficulties they encounter, improve communication and understanding of behaviors and motives, emotions and reasons that move each one.

The number of sessions needed is closely related to the moment the couple arrives, the point at which each person finds themselves, and the connection with emotions and awareness of oneself.

Usually, a structure is used consisting of an initial couple’s session, at least one individual session with each member of the couple (there may be more depending on each person’s history), and the continuation of the couple’s sessions with the therapist.

Generally, sessions are between 50 and 90 minutes, depending on the couple. It is recommended that they be – especially at the beginning – weekly sessions that allow for continuity in the work done and the individualized perception of change. However, depending on the possibilities/needs of each couple, there may be variations in these details, which are discussed with the therapist in the first session.

Stages

The ‘map’ that therapists follow to guide couples towards reconnection consists of different moments of therapy, in which they advance and deepen, structured in three distinct stages that follow one another over time:

#1 Assessment

of the conflict issues and patterns that hinder connection: the behaviors, emotions, and thoughts that maintain emotional separation are explored with the couple.

#2 Deepening

in the emotions for the acceptance of one’s own and the partner’s vulnerability, facilitating a deep emotional reconnection.

#3 Consolidation

of the change in the perception, expression, and understanding of emotions in the couple, generating a relationship.