What is Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy?
What is EFCT?
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) is a highly researched, evidence-based model of couples therapy
developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. Rooted in attachment science, EFCT focuses on strengthening the emotional
bond between partners and transforming the negative interaction patterns that create distance and conflict.
Many couples become stuck in a predictable cycle — withdrawal and silence on one side, criticism or
escalation on the other. These patterns may look like emotional shutdown, the “cold shoulder,” repeated
arguments, blame, or name-calling. Often, couples move rapidly between both roles, leaving each partner
feeling exhausted and misunderstood.
In therapy, we slow these moments down and examine what is happening beneath the surface. When
conflict escalates, partners often report feeling lonely, rejected, unseen, or as though they “can’t do anything
right.” EFCT helps uncover the deeper emotions driving these reactions and creates new, more secure ways of
connecting.
When appropriate, I also integrate the Attachment Injury Repair Model to address relationship trauma and
affair recovery. These experiences represent significant breaks in attachment bonds. Through structured and
guided conversations, we work toward accountability, emotional processing, and meaningful repair.
This work takes place in a safe, intentional therapeutic environment.
Reach out to me. Together, we identify your cycle,
understand the attachment needs underneath it, and begin practicing clearer, more emotionally accessible
communication. The goal of EFCT is not simply to reduce conflict — it is to create a resilient, secure, and
deeply connected partnership.
If you are seeking specialized couples therapy grounded in attachment science and supported by research,
EFCT offers a clear path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can we expect with EFCT sessions?
EFCT sessions are structured, balanced, and purposeful. You can expect to be both supported and appropriately challenged as we explore the patterns shaping your relationship. We work in real time to slow down conflict, identify the negative interaction cycle, and understand the deeper emotions driving it. Over time, couples gain clarity about how they arrived at their current struggles and develop new ways of responding to one another. Most importantly, you can expect growth — individually and together — as you build a more secure emotional bond.
Where do your clients come from?
While I offer secure telehealth couples therapy, many clients choose in-person sessions at my Gaithersburg, Maryland office. I work with couples from Frederick, Germantown, Poolesville, Gaithersburg, Rockville, Potomac, Bethesda, and Chevy Chase. My office is conveniently located just off I-270 on Darnestown Road (Route 28), making it easily accessible throughout Montgomery County.
Can you help us?
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is one of the most researched and effective models of couples therapy available today. EFCT focuses on understanding the attachment dynamics between partners and creating meaningful change at the emotional level. Even if your relationship feels high-conflict, distant, or overwhelmed by repeated arguments, we can work to uncover the underlying cycle and explore new ways of connecting. My role is to provide a safe, structured environment where both partners feel heard while we move toward repair, stability, and renewed connection.