Overview

The Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT) Externship is an immersive four-day (24+ hour) foundational training for therapists seeking to specialize in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy®. Led by ICEEFT Certified Trainer Cindy Goodness Zane, Psyd, JD, this training introduces the EFCT model through the lens of attachment science and experiential, systemic practice. As the first step in formal EFCT training, the Externship builds confidence and clinical skill while opening the pathway to advanced training and certification.

What You’ll Learn

• Move beyond surface-level conflict and clearly understand what’s really driving couples’ distress through the lens of attachment and emotion

• Confidently map couples’ negative cycles and guide them toward repair using the EFCT model from Attachment Theory in Practice

• Stay grounded and effective with high-conflict or emotionally shut-down couples by building a strong, collaborative therapeutic alliance

• Know what to do and when in session by mastering the EFT Tango and core EFT micro-interventions

• Navigate common impasses—pursue/withdraw, reactivity, shutdown, and hopelessness—and help couples experience meaningful emotional shifts

• Create corrective emotional experiences that lead to lasting change, deeper connection, and secure bonding

Who This Training Is For?

This training is open to licensed mental health professionals and students in training, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, counselors, couple and family therapists, psychiatric nurses, physicians, clergy, and pastors. Licensed school counselors and occupational therapists who belong to a professional body with psychotherapy standards are also welcome.

Meet Your Trainer

Cindy Goodness Zane, PsyD, JD
ICEEFT Certified Trainer, Supervisor, and Therapist

Born and raised in Hawaiʻi, Dr. Zane brings a deeply relational, culturally responsive lens to her work. A former attorney turned clinical psychologist, she is passionate about helping individuals and couples strengthen their relationships. Dr. Zane trains EFT clinicians worldwide and is especially committed to supporting therapists and communities of diverse backgrounds and identities.

Registration & Location

Registration and pricing are coming soon. This will be an in-person training in the Portland, Oregon area (exact location TBD).
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