Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy
Emotionally Focused Therapy, or EFT, is the approach I use with every couple I see, at my office or online anywhere in Ontario. This page covers where it came from and what a session feels like, so you can decide whether it suits you.
Where EFT Comes From
EFT was developed in the 1980s by Dr. Sue Johnson and Dr. Les Greenberg. It draws on attachment research, the study of how adults, like children, need to feel that the people closest to them will respond when they reach out.
What an EFT Session Feels Like
Sessions are slower than most people expect. When something sharp gets said, I'll often stop and ask what was happening inside you just before you said it.
At some point I'll ask one of you to turn and say something straight to the other, with me there to help. For a lot of people, that's the hardest moment in a session.
YOUR THERAPIST
Meet Sherriden Brown
I started training in Emotionally Focused Therapy in 2020 and became certified in it in 2026. Couples often worry I'll take sides. What I pay attention to is the pattern the two of you get caught in, which is usually what's hurting you both, and that's something you can change together.
More about my training and background is on my About page.
EFT and Gottman
EFT Compared With the Gottman Method
Two well-known approaches to couples work, and how they differ.
The Gottman Method comes from John and Julie Gottman's research on how couples argue and repair. It tends to teach skills, like gentler ways to bring up a hard topic, and often uses questionnaires and exercises.
EFT focuses on the feelings under the argument. The idea is that once you feel safer with each other, the way you talk tends to change too. Both have research behind them, and I'm trained and certified in EFT, so that's how I work.
Certification
Training and Certification in EFT
What the certification levels mean.
Therapists start with basic EFT training. Certification is the next step, where ICEEFT recognizes a therapist's skill in the model. Beyond that is certified supervisor, for therapists who mentor others working toward certification.
I use EFT in marriage counselling and couples counselling. The one-on-one version is called Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy.
PRACTICAL DETAILS
Before You Book
What couples usually ask me before the first session.
Fees and Insurance
Sessions are $230 for 50 minutes, in person or online. I direct bill the main insurers. OHIP doesn't cover psychotherapy.
Your First Call
The first call is free and takes 15 minutes. One of you can book it, or both of you can be on the line.
Session Times
Usually weekdays between 9 and 6, with the odd later morning or earlier evening. Pick a time that works for you both when you book online.
Talk to a Certified EFT Therapist
If you'd like to know whether EFT suits the two of you, book the free 15-minute call and ask me.
FAQs
Questions About Emotionally Focused Therapy
A few things people ask about EFT itself.
Is EFT the same as Emotional Freedom Technique?
The two only share initials. Emotional Freedom Technique is a tapping practice. Emotionally Focused Therapy is a talk therapy for couples and individuals.
Should we read anything before we start?
You don't have to. If you'd like to, Sue Johnson's book Hold Me Tight was written for couples and explains the ideas behind EFT in plain language.