Sue Johnson

Dr. Sue Johnson was a clinical psychologist, researcher, author, and professor recognized as the primary developer of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). Throughout her career, Johnson integrated attachment theory into psychotherapy, influencing how clinicians approach love, conflict, and emotional connection in couples, families, and individuals. She developed EFT with Dr. Les Greenberg as a method for addressing relational distress in couples and families. The approach became one of the most evidence-based and widely practiced models in psychotherapy, later adapted for individual therapy as Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) and for family therapy as Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT).

EFT's effectiveness has been demonstrated in decades of peer-reviewed clinical research. Colleagues have noted that Johnson shifted the focus of therapy to the underlying emotional life of couples, which had often been overlooked in favor of cognitive and behavioral approaches. Johnson served as founding director of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy and as distinguished research professor at Alliant University in San Diego, California, as well as professor emeritus of clinical psychology at the University of Ottawa, Canada. She also consulted for Veterans Affairs and the U.S. and Canadian militaries.

Johnson authored several books for both professional and general audiences. For the general public, "Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love" presents her research on enhancing, repairing, and sustaining relationships. The book has sold over 1 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 30 languages. "Love Sense: The Revolutionary New Science in Romantic Relationships" explores the scientific understanding of love and attachment. Her professional works include "Attachment Theory in Practice: EFT with Individuals, Couples and Families," "A Primer for Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy," and "The Practice of Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy: Creating Connection."

Johnson received numerous awards for her development of EFT and contributions to couple and family therapy and adult attachment, including the Order of Canada, the Lifetime Achievement Award from Psychotherapy Networker, the Outstanding Contribution to the Field of Couple and Family Therapy Award from the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, and the Research in Family Therapy Award from the American Family Therapy Academy. She was also named Family Psychologist of the Year by the American Psychological Association's Society for Couples and Family Therapy. Johnson's influence continues through the therapists she trained and the global reach of EFT, which has shaped the understanding of the science of love and connection in psychotherapy.