Dr. Sue Johnson, the founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), joins Dr. Rick and Forrest on the Being Well podcast to explore how insights from attachment theory can transform our relationships.
They discuss how attachment theory provides a map for understanding relationships, the challenges of making skills learned in therapy stick, and the role of vulnerability in creating authentic and fulfilling relationships. In this episode you’ll learn how to use insights from attachment theory and EFT to create secure and emotionally healthy relationships.
About our Guest: Dr. Sue Johnson is a clinical psychologist, researcher, professor, and the founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), a widely used and respected approach to couples therapy. She is considered one of the foremost experts in the field of attachment, and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the field of psychotherapy. Dr. Johnson is also the author of seven books, including the best-selling Hold Me Tight and her most recent book Edgar & Elouise.
Key Topics:
- 0:00: Introduction
- 2:00: Why Sue created Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT)
- 8:55: Relationships as bonds, not bargains
- 12:20: Attachment theory as a “map,” and getting skills to stick
- 16:50: What it feels like to be in a bonding conversation
- 26:15: Validating vulnerabilities and “finding the raw spot”
- 31:35: Changing the way you relate to yourself
- 36:20: EFT vs. Internal Family Systems
- 38:40: “The Amygdala Whisperer,” and creating a new experience
- 40:35: Inherent goodness, and naming helplessness
- 45:40: Communicating how much you value others
- 51:50: Individualism, and getting comfortable with vulnerability
- 59:05: Recap
