Mending broken bonds in military couples using emotionally focused therapy for couples: Tips and discoveries

J Clin Psychol. 2020 May;76(5):865-870. doi: 10.1002/jclp.22921. Epub 2020 Jan 18.

Abstract

Military families face specific challenges related to military service, deployments, separations, and coming together. The process of reintegration back to civilian life can be challenged by posttraumatic stress and other readjustment difficulties that can affect not only the veteran but the family as a whole. Strengthening bonds and relationships is an important step in recovery. In this paper, the authors review the application of emotionally focused therapy to couples therapy with military couples and identify factors that can facilitate the therapeutic process with this unique population.

Keywords: EFT; attachment; couples; emotionally focused couple therapy; military; trauma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Couples Therapy / methods*
  • Emotion-Focused Therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Military Family*
  • Military Personnel
  • Object Attachment