A Relational Approach to Emotionally Focused Therapy

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is an evidence-based couple's approach to increasing a couple's relational connection through attachment and interaction patterns. Although EFT is empirically researched, most of the research is rooted in Western cultures, therefore limiting its applicability to marginalized couples. This article integrates EFT with relational cultural theory (RCT), emphasizing relational images and disconnection in a couple's relationships. This integration provides counselors with a culturally responsive framework to address the cultural values of marginalized couples. This article details the major tenets of EFT and RCT, provides a detailed case illustration integrating EFT and RCT with a Latine couple, and provides recommendations for counselors.