by Sue Johnson · 2008
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for couples, by the modality's founder.
Best for: Couples stuck in disconnection cycles, particularly when surface conflicts mask deeper attachment fears.
Ad / Affiliate link: We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our full reading list.
Sue Johnson developed Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) — one of the most-researched couples therapy models, with strong evidence for sustained improvement. This is her book for couples.
EFT's core insight is that most chronic couple conflict isn't really about the surface issue (money, sex, in-laws). It's about whether each partner feels safe and connected with the other — and when that safety is missing, partners get caught in protective cycles that look like attack-or-withdraw but are actually attachment distress.
The book walks couples through structured conversations to identify their cycle, reach the deeper feelings underneath, and rebuild secure connection. It's a frequent recommendation alongside couples work — and useful even when only one partner is willing to read it.
A note. This is reading material, not clinical treatment. If you’re working through something difficult, books complement therapy — they don’t replace it. Book a session with our team for personalised support.
More books in relationships & couples.
Kent Hoffman, Glen Cooper & Bert Powell
Circle of Security Parenting, written for parents by the developers of the model.
John M. Gottman & Nan Silver
The most-researched couples-therapy framework, in the general-reader version.
Bert Powell, Glen Cooper, Kent Hoffman & Bob Marvin
The clinician's manual for delivering the Circle of Security protocol.
Daniel J. Siegel
The scientific foundation of interpersonal neurobiology — the theoretical basis for the Circle of Security model.
Amir Levine & Rachel Heller
Translates adult attachment theory for general readers — an excellent psychoeducation resource for clients.
Susan M. Johnson
Integrates EFT with attachment theory across individual, couples, and family therapy.
Our team sees adults, adolescents, and children in person at Bella Vista and via telehealth across NSW. Medicare rebates with a GP Mental Health Care Plan; NDIS self- and plan-managed; private health depending on fund.