0700 - Helping Families Thrive with Emotionally Focused Family Therapy: An Introduction to EFFT

Course Description

Hours: 12

Developed by the late Dr. Sue Johnson, emotionally focused family therapy (EFFT) is an evidence-based, attachment-focused approach that helps families strengthen emotional bonds, navigate conflict and build lasting resilience. Rooted in attachment science, EFFT helps therapists understand the emotional patterns that keep families stuck and provides practical interventions that foster connection, safety and healing.

Families face many challenges – stress, conflict, transitions, loss, mental health concerns and life changes. While these experiences can strain relationships, they also present opportunities for growth when family members are supported in creating stronger emotional connections. EFFT offers therapists a clear roadmap for helping families move from cycles of disconnection to relationships characterized by accessibility, responsiveness and engagement. This engaging two-day workshop will introduce participants to the foundations of the EFFT model. Through interactive teaching, clinical video, case examples and experiential learning, you’ll gain a practical understanding of the EFFT framework.

Whether you work with families with young children or families with adolescents or adult children, this workshop will help you better understand the emotional and attachment needs that shape family relationships and provide practical strategies for promoting healthier, more secure connections.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Describe the foundations of the EFFT model.
• Understand family relationships through the lens of attachment science.
• Recognize the negative interaction patterns that maintain family distress.
• Use emotion as a guide for creating meaningful therapeutic change.
• Help parents and caregivers become more emotionally accessible and responsive.
• Begin applying EFFT interventions to strengthen connection and resilience within families.
• Whether you are new to emotionally focused therapy or are looking to expand your clinical practice into family work, this workshop offers a practical, compassionate and engaging introduction to one of today’s leading attachment-based approaches to working with families.

“Families are remarkably resilient. When emotional safety and secure connection are restored, parents and children discover new ways of reaching for one another, responding with greater compassion, and creating relationships where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.” - Robin Williams Blake, RP

Notes

Time Zone: All listed class times are held in ET (Ontario, Canada)

For more information contact the Faculty of Social Work Professional Development office:

Email: fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca
Phone: 548-889-4967

Cancellations and Transfers
Be sure to carefully review our cancellation and transfer information before registering.

Website: wlu.ca/fswpd

Applies Towards the Following Certificates

• Family and Couples Counselling : Family and Couples Counselling