EFT Couples Therapy Switzerland
We support secure, resilient, and thriving couple relationships by enabling and promoting access to Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) in Switzerland.
What Is Emotionally
Focused Couples Therapy (EFT)?
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is a scientifically grounded and empirically validated treatment approach that has proven highly effective in helping couples in emotional distress. In this model, the therapist helps a couple identify and transform destructive negative cycles within their relationship, while strengthening the emotional attachment bond between the partners.
EFT is based on attachment theory and was developed by Dr. Sue Johnson. The approach is structured and process-oriented — a typical EFT couples therapy comprises 10 — 20 sessions. Studies show that 70 — 90% of couples experience a significant improvement in their relationship.
Note: EFT is not related to the “Emotional Freedom Technique” or “tapping,” which uses the same abbreviation.
When Is Couples Therapy Right for You?
Many couples ask themselves: Do we need couples therapy? If you are asking yourself this question, it is usually the right time. Couples counseling and marriage counseling are not a sign of weakness — they are an active step toward strengthening your relationship.
- You keep arguing about the same issues without resolution
- You feel emotionally distant or like roommates
- After a breach of trust, you cannot find your way back to each other
- Communication problems: conversations end in blame or silence
- You are considering separation but feel uncertain
- Closeness and intimacy have been lost
The sooner you seek support, the better the outlook. Find an EFT couples therapist now in your region.
Strengths of Emotionally
Focused Couples Therapy
- EFT is based on clear, explicit concepts of relationship distress and adult love, grounded in attachment theory
- EFT is collaborative and respectful, combining experiential Rogerian techniques with systemic interventions
- EFT is underpinned by a specific model of change and specific intervention techniques
- Key markers and interventions are mapped across nine steps and three stages of therapy
- EFT has been validated through over 30 years of empirical research — with studies on change processes and outcome predictors
- EFT has been successfully applied with many different populations — including couples dealing with depression, PTSD, or chronic illness
Learn more: What is EFT? · About Sue Johnson · Book Recommendations
Dr. Sue Johnson on EFT Couples Therapy
Dr. Sue Johnson was a clinical psychologist, researcher, and the founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Her life’s work revolutionized couples therapy worldwide. Learn more about Sue Johnson and her legacy.
The Path to EFT
Certification in Switzerland
EFT training in Switzerland follows the international ICEEFT standard. In four progressive stages, you become a certified EFT couples therapist:
Basic Training Externship
The official ICEEFT basic training is your first step into Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. In 4 intensive days, you will learn the fundamentals of the EFT model, the three stages and nine steps. With live demonstrations, video analyses, and hands-on exercises.
Go to Externship
Advanced Training Core Skills
The practice-oriented deepening of your EFT competencies in small groups. 3 blocks of 3 days each with intensive supervision, video feedback, and detailed work on therapeutic skills. Starting each summer.
Go to Core Skills
Online Group Supervision
Certification-relevant supervision with ICEEFT-recognized supervisors. Available both in group and individual formats. Here you receive detailed feedback on your cases and interventions.
Go to Supervision
Certification
The completion of your EFT training: submission of two video sequences with case conceptualizations to ICEEFT. Upon successful review, you receive the international EFT certification as a couples therapist.
Go to TrainingUpcoming EFT Events
März 2026
April 2026
Looking for a Couples Therapist?
Find a certified EFT therapist in your region — in Zurich, Bern, Basel, Lucerne, and throughout Switzerland.
Want to Strengthen Your Relationship?
Experience the “Hold Me Tight” workshop for couples.
Deepen your emotional connection, resolve entrenched conflict patterns, and find your way back to each other — structured, safe, and scientifically grounded.
Want to Train in EFT?
Discover our training and continuing education programs for professionals — from the Externship to certification.
Want to Join the EFT Network?
Become a member of EFT Couples Therapy Switzerland.
Benefit from professional exchange, visibility, quality standards, and a strong network of certified EFT therapists.
The EFT training was the starting point for my work in couples counseling — and another milestone on my professional journey. Not a day goes by in my practice without feeling grateful for this approach. EFT makes it possible to quickly and effectively foster understanding and de-escalate conflicts in couples settings.Agnes Silvani, MA Sexologist & Lecturer in Anatomy and Physiology
As a lawyer and mediator, I often accompany people through difficult phases — when communication is stuck or separation looms. Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) has opened a new depth for me: it reveals what truly drives conflicts — the emotional movements, needs, and wounds beneath the surface.Nathalie Gadola-Dürler, MA Sexologist & lic. iur. Family Mediator
The training in EFT couples therapy is a valuable addition to my work as a sexologist with couples. EFT meets couples where they often get stuck — in emotionally charged cycles. EFT not only makes these patterns visible but opens up new possibilities for couples.Sarah Graf, MA Sexologist, Events & Yoga
Looking for support in your couple relationship?
Find the right therapist!
Bettina Hoen
- zertifiziert in EFT Paartherapie
- Deutsch, English
- +41 78 605 70 61
- www.psychologist-bettinahoen.ch
- bh@psychologist-bettinahoen.ch
- Baar
Julia Riel
- zertifiziert in EFT Paartherapie
- Deutsch, English
- +41 76 805 88 68
- www.julia-riel.ch
- j.riel@positivechange-beratung.ch
- Kreuzlingen
Alexine Thompson-de Benoit
- Trainer/in
- Français, English, Italiano
- +41 79 960 92 52
- www.institut-tce.com
- athompson.mft@gmail.com
- Paudex
Sara Frank
- zertifiziert in EFT Paartherapie
- Deutsch, English
- +41 77 479 27 04
- www.sara-frank.ch
- kontakt@sara-frank.ch
- Hünenberg
Ben Kneubühler
- Trainer/in
- Deutsch, Français, English
- +41 79 767 10 00 (nur SMS)
- der-psychologe.ch
- mail@der-psychologe.ch
- Zürich
Would you like to become a member of EFT Switzerland and be listed in the therapist directory?
EFT professionals who are interested in being listed in the directory and/or engaging in professional exchange with colleagues can register here.
Find the right book on Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy
Hold Me Tight
Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love
A practical book for couples that shows how conscious emotional connection can strengthen lasting love.
The Practice of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy
An empirically grounded guide for therapists on the effective practice of couples therapy.
Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT)
A scientifically supported introduction to emotionally focused work with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, and trauma.
EFT Couples Therapists in Your Region
Find a certified EFT couples therapist near you:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does EFT couples therapy cost in Switzerland?
Costs vary depending on the therapist and region. A typical session (50–90 min.) ranges between CHF 180 and CHF 250. Couples therapy may be partially covered by supplementary health insurance if the therapist is accredited. Check directly with your insurance provider and your chosen therapist.
How long does EFT couples therapy take?
EFT is a short-term therapy approach. Most couples experience significant improvements within 10–20 sessions. The results are scientifically proven and remain stable long-term — even years after completing therapy.
What is the difference between couples therapy and marriage counseling?
Couples therapy (such as EFT) works on the deeper emotional patterns within a relationship and is scientifically grounded. Marriage counseling often focuses more on practical communication techniques. EFT goes a step further: it helps couples understand the emotions behind their conflicts and build a secure emotional attachment bond.
Can couples therapy be done online?
Yes! Many EFT therapists in Switzerland offer online couples therapy via video. Studies show that online sessions can be just as effective as in-person sessions — especially for couples who do not live in the same location or have scheduling constraints.
Who is behind EFT Couples Therapy Switzerland?
EFT Couples Therapy Switzerland is led by Ben Kneubühler, a certified EFT therapist, supervisor, and trainer. The goal is to raise awareness of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy in Switzerland and build a network of qualified therapists.
