In remembrance of 9/11 The New York Center Of Emotionally Focused Therapy made this video. George Faller, LMFT – retired firefighter shares his experience of the day and how he became a Couples/Family Therapist after the tragedy. George is now an international trainer for EFT.

Understanding Couple Therapy for Trauma Survivors

Trauma disrupts individuals and their closest relationships, often making connection and trust challenging. Survivors frequently develop survival strategies, like withdrawal or hypervigilance, that create emotional distance. We do marriage therapy for trauma survivors based on EFT. Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), pioneered by Dr. Sue Johnson, helps couples repair this distance by fostering trust and emotional safety. Through EFT, trauma survivors and their partners can rebuild strong, supportive bonds.

Trauma Reshapes Relationships

Trauma changes how people perceive safety and closeness. Survivors often struggle with trusting their partners or may unintentionally push them away to protect themselves. These reactions stem from survival instincts rather than relationship shortcomings. Marriage therapy provides tools to help couples understand these patterns and work through the impact of trauma together.

How EFT Heals Trauma in Relationships

EFT actively addresses the behaviors that disconnect couples. Therapists guide partners to recognize how trauma influences their actions and feelings. For example, a partner’s withdrawal may signal fear rather than disinterest. EFT helps couples replace these protective habits with meaningful connection. This process deepens understanding, increases empathy, and strengthens emotional bonds.

To learn more about the principles of EFT, explore this introduction to Emotionally Focused Therapy.

Rebuilding Trust and Intimacy

Marriage therapy with EFT transforms relationships into safe havens where healing can occur. Partners learn to communicate openly, respond with compassion, and create a secure attachment. For trauma survivors, this connection builds the trust and resilience needed to overcome the lingering effects of past experiences.

If you and your partner are ready to heal together, visit our contact page or call us to schedule a consultation. You can also explore our approach to marriage therapy and how it helps couples navigate challenges.

Through EFT, couples can reclaim closeness and create a supportive, fulfilling relationship—even after trauma.