Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in Toronto for Couples and Individuals
What Is Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)?
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a structured, evidence based approach to couples therapy developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. It focuses on adult attachment and bonding. EFT helps couples recognize and restructure emotional responses that undermine connection, transforming patterns of distress into secure emotional bonds.
Unlike traditional talk therapy that may focus on surface communication, EFT dives deep into the emotional experiences and attachment needs of each partner. The goal is not just to fix problems but to create a safe and emotionally responsive relationship.
Why Choose EFT for Couples and Individuals?
EFT has been proven to be effective for:
Couples experiencing emotional distance or disconnection
Partners struggling with communication breakdowns
Rebuilding trust after betrayal
Healing from attachment injuries or emotional trauma
Individuals facing relationship anxiety, abandonment fears, or repeating unhealthy patterns
At Rafati Counselling Services, we specialize in helping both couples and individuals transform their relationships by healing emotional wounds, increasing emotional responsiveness, and creating lasting bonds.
Meet Your Therapist: Pantea Rafati, MACP, RP, Couples Therapist
Pantea Rafati is a seasoned psychotherapist with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. She is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA).
Her therapeutic style is warm, intuitive, and collaborative. With advanced training in EFT, she helps couples and individuals:
Recognize and interrupt negative cycles
Safely express their needs and emotions
Rebuild secure emotional attachment
How Does EFT Work? The 3 Stages of EFT
EFT unfolds in a structured process with 3 main stages:
De-Escalation
Identifying negative interaction patterns (pursue/withdraw, blame/defend)
Understanding the emotions and needs beneath these behaviors
Building insight into the attachment needs driving conflict
Restructuring the Bond
Deepening emotional engagement
Expressing primary emotions (e.g., fear, loneliness, hurt)
Creating moments of vulnerability and empathy
Consolidation
Practicing new patterns of interaction
Strengthening emotional safety and trust
Developing shared meaning and secure bonds
EFT for Couples: Common Issues We Address
Chronic arguments or recurring conflicts
Emotional withdrawal or stonewalling
Infidelity and rebuilding trust
Parenting disagreements and life transitions
Feelings of loneliness within the relationship
By helping you access and share deeper emotions, EFT creates the conditions for healing emotional injuries and establishing new, positive cycles of interaction.
EFT for Individuals
Even without a partner present, EFT can help individuals:
Understand their attachment patterns
Process emotions from past or current relationships
Prepare for healthier future connections
Heal from relationship trauma or loss
Whether you’re navigating the end of a relationship or hoping to break free from recurring patterns, EFT for individuals offers a path to greater self-awareness and emotional resilience.
Is EFT Right for You?
You might benefit from EFT if:
You feel stuck in repetitive arguments
You long for closeness but fear vulnerability
Your relationship feels safe but distant
You or your partner shut down during conflict
You’ve experienced emotional betrayal or abandonment
Rafati Counselling Services provides a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions, understand your needs, and transform your relationship dynamics.
Why Choose Rafati Counselling Services for EFT in Toronto?
Rafati Counselling Services is a trusted choice for Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in Toronto, led by Pantea Rafati, a highly trained and compassionate EFT therapist. The practice is known for its inclusive and welcoming approach, providing a safe and affirming space for individuals and couples of all backgrounds, relationship types, and identities.
With a deep commitment to emotional safety and empowerment, clients can expect a supportive environment where they feel heard, respected, and understood. Confidentiality and compassion are at the core of the therapeutic experience, fostering genuine connection and meaningful personal growth.
If you’re ready to stop feeling stuck and start creating meaningful change in your relationship, Emotionally Focused Therapy can help.
Contact Rafati Counselling Services today to book your first session with Pantea Rafati.
