S1 ep 2: Exploring Attachment in Emotionally Focused Therapy

In this episode of the Emotionally Focused Therapy Podcast, hosts Michael Preston and Michael Barnett delve into the foundational aspects of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) through the lens of attachment theory. They explore how attachment influences emotional connections in relationships, the importance of significant others in the therapeutic process, and the biological underpinnings of attachment.

The conversation emphasizes the depth of emotional experiences in therapy, the role of distress as a gateway to healing, and the transformative power of understanding and navigating attachment dynamics. The hosts aim to provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of how these elements interconnect within the EFT framework, ultimately guiding therapists in their practice.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Connection

02:21 Understanding Attachment Theory

04:44 The Importance of Depth Psychotherapy

08:34 The Role of Attachment in Healing

10:52 Navigating Personal Histories

14:19 The Biological Basis of Attachment

17:32 The Impact of Early Relationships

20:10 The Power of Significant Others

21:04 The Foundation of Attachment and Emotional Safety

22:55 Navigating Emotional Scars in Relationships

24:25 The Power of Distress in Therapy

26:08 Entering the Distress: A Therapeutic Approach

28:18 Building Emotional Awareness and Connection

30:08 The Interconnection of Stages in EFT

31:55 The Role of Emotion in Attachment Therapy

35:23 Understanding and Expressing Distress

39:32 The Revolutionary Experience of Connection