Learning emotion-focused therapy: Certified emotion-focused therapists perspectives.

Abstract

Emotion-focused therapy (EFT) is an increasingly popular form of humanistic therapy that is spreading internationally through standard training curricula. The empirical investigations of training in EFT has, however, received little attention. This study investigated certified EFT therapists’ experience of learning EFT, including their experience of didactic training, experiential exercises, supervision, and self-study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten certified EFT therapists respectively. All the interviews were recorded and transcribed, and data was analysed using a descriptive and interpretive approach. Results showed that therapists had both positive and challenging experiences during their learning process: the therapy proved complex to learn, experiential exercises (chair work) were challenging but important for learning, self-study played an important role, experiencing different trainers was valuable, and the role of structured supervision to scaffold learning was emphasised. In conclusion, learning EFT is a rewarding yet challenging process for therapists to go through.