Carla Bonetti
Psychologist
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy
Carla is certified in EFT for couples by the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT).
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is a short term treatment approach aimed at reconnecting couples. Based on John Bowlby’s Attachment research, EFT represents the belief that we have an innate need to feel attached and comforted by significant others, and that our romantic relationships will play a significant role in meeting these needs.
Unfortunately, due to adverse experiences in past relationships and self perpetuating negative cycles of interaction, many couples develop difficulties with trust, expression of emotions and connection. They may then fail to feel attached and safe in their relationships.
Using EFT, Carla will help couples recognise and eventually express their need for love, support, protection and comfort. These feelings are often hidden or disguised by harsh and angry words used in repetitive self defeating patterns of conflict. Once these feelings of connection are reestablished, couples will be well equipped to manage any conflict or painful feelings that inevitably arise in close relationships.
Research indicates that EFT moves couples from distress to recovery in 70-75% of cases, usually within 10-12 sessions, and creates improvements in 90% of couples attending therapy. EFT has been successfully used in private practice, university training centres and hospitals, to assist distressed couples, including partners suffering from disorders such as depression, post-traumatic disorder and chronic illness.