Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT) Therapists

Emotion-Focused Family Therapy is an evidence-based approach that positions parents and caregivers as central figures in their child's recovery and emotional development. Developed from research on attachment and emotion, EFFT helps families understand the role of emotions in behaviour and teaches practical skills for responding to difficult feelings. The approach recognizes that parents, when supported with the right tools, can provide powerful healing experiences for their children.

EFFT may be helpful for families where a child or adolescent is struggling with emotional regulation, anxiety, depression, or eating difficulties. It can also support families who want to strengthen their emotional connections or improve communication patterns. Parents who feel uncertain about how to respond when their child is distressed often find EFFT's practical coaching approach particularly valuable.

In EFFT, therapists work primarily with parents and caregivers, teaching them specific emotion coaching skills to use at home. Sessions typically focus on understanding the emotional blocks that can interfere with caregiving, practicing new ways of responding to a child's distress, and building confidence in navigating difficult moments. Some sessions may include the whole family, while others focus on parents alone.

The length of EFFT varies depending on each family's unique situation and goals. Some families find meaningful progress in several months, while others benefit from longer-term support. Your therapist can discuss a general timeline during your initial sessions and adjust the approach based on how your family responds to the work.

Finding a good therapeutic fit matters, especially for family work. On First Session, each therapist has a profile with an intro video where you can hear them speak about their approach and get a sense of their personality. Reading about their training in EFFT and other modalities can also help. Many families find it useful to book an initial consultation to see how the therapist connects with different family members.

Booking a session on First Session is straightforward. Browse therapist profiles to find practitioners trained in EFFT, watch their intro videos, and check their availability. Once you find someone who seems like a good match, you can book directly through their profile. Many therapists offer both online and in-person sessions, giving your family flexibility in how you attend.