The Process of Using the Self of the Therapist in EFT: A Grounded Theory Study

Abstract

This qualitative study explores Self of the Therapist (SOT) implementation in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) by therapists aged 28-50. Involving 15 certified EFT therapists with a minimum of one year’s experience, the research utilized semi-structured interviews and grounded theory for data analysis. The findings revealed 21 subcategories and 9 main categories, emphasizing the recognition of SOT. The study offers an intermediate theory on SOT’s application in EFT, providing insights that highlight the critical role of therapist self-awareness in effective therapeutic outcomes. These insights are invaluable for therapists and researchers aiming to enhance EFT practices.

Keywords:

• Self of the therapist
• grounded theory
• EFT
• emotionally focused therapy
• therapeutic relationship

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s)

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.