Upcoming EFT Events.
EFT Externship
This training is created and endorsed by award-winning EFT model founder, Dr. Susan M. Johnson. Whether you work with individuals, couples, or families, EFT can transform your practice!
Dr. Sue Johnson
Dr. Sue Johnson is a renowned author, clinical psychologist, researcher, professor, and sought-after speaker. She is a leading innovator in couple therapy and adult attachment and the primary developer of Emotionally Focused Couples and Family Therapy (EFT), a model backed by over 30 years of peer-reviewed clinical research.
As the founding Director of the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dr. Johnson also serves as a Distinguished Research Professor at Alliant University in San Diego and Professor Emeritus of Clinical Psychology at the University of Ottawa.
Her groundbreaking work in EFT has earned her numerous accolades, including the Order of Canada—her country’s highest civilian honor for outstanding achievement and service. In 2016, she was named Psychologist of the Year by the APA and has been recognized by the AAMFT for her exceptional contributions to couple and family therapy.
Bend Oregon
Bend is home to Oregon’s first urban whitewater park, offering adventure right in the heart of the city. With miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, plus the iconic Mt. Bachelor and Smith Rock just a short drive away, Bend is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Discover a vibrant blend of craft breweries, dynamic arts, and unique local experiences in Central Oregon. With its breathtaking natural beauty and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, Bend, Oregon, is a premier destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Come join us for EFT Externship training while having some time to enjoy our beautiful city.
James Hawkins, Ph.D., Our Trainer
Dr. James Hawkins, known as "Doc Hawk," is a Licensed Counselor and an ICEEFT-certified trainer, supervisor, and therapist. He holds a Master’s in Marriage and Family Counseling and a Ph.D. in Psychology and Counseling. Currently, he serves as the Clinical Coordinator at a nonprofit counseling practice in Northwest Arkansas.
In addition to his clinical work, James is the founder of Healing Conversations, a training program designed to help organizations and communities engage in meaningful and productive discussions about race. He also co-hosts two podcasts: The Leading Edge in Emotionally Focused Therapy and The Leading Edge: Transforming Leadership Through Attachment Science.
James is a contributor to successinvulnerability.com, an online training program dedicated to helping EFT therapists and supervisors enhance their clinical focus. With a deep passion for supporting individuals, couples, families, and communities in relational distress, Doc Hawk brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his work. He is married to his wife, Nicola, and together they have five daughters.
Join Us
October 15th-18th, 2025
9am-5pm
About This EFT Externship Training
Whether you work with couples, individuals, or families, EFT offers a holistic and integrative approach with a clear, structured roadmap for success. From the first session to the completion of therapy, this model provides guidance to create meaningful change both within and between sessions.
Venue Location: Westside Community Center
2051 NW Shevlin Park Road | Bend, Oregon
Earn up to 28 CEUs.
Content Description:
An Externship in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy® is an immersive four-day (24+ hour) training experience, foundational for therapists aiming to specialize in EFCT. Led by certified trainers, it offers a comprehensive introduction to the EFCT model, focusing on the science of attachment and the systematic approach to couple therapy. This training is crucial for therapists because it equips them with the necessary skills to foster secure, resilient relationships in therapy. It’s the first step in formal EFCT training, opening the door to advanced practice and certification, enhancing therapists’ efficacy and confidence in their clinical work with couples.
Program Learning Objectives
Participants will obtain a clear understanding of the basic experiential and systemic concepts of an “Emotionally Focused” approach to therapy.
Participants will be able to assess and diagram clients in the web of their interpersonal attachments and conceptualize relationship distress and repair based on theories of attachment and emotion.
Participants will develop skills in sharing and maintaining an engaged, open, and collaborative alliance with clients.
Participants will develop skills in the five moves of the basic macro-intervention – the EFT Tango –to change patterns of affect regulation, models of self and others, strategies for engaging others, and interactional patterns.
Participants will develop skills in EFT micro-interventions taken from experiential and attachment systemic models of intervention.
Participants will develop skills in overcoming common blocks and impasses in couple therapy, shaping core corrective emotional experiences that lead to constructive dependency and what Rogers termed ‘existential living".
Cost To Attend
Regular Fee (Starting June 1st, 2025): $1195
Early Bird Rate (End May 31st, 2025): $995
Current Students: $545
Associates: $795
Clergy & Military: $895
** This workshop is designed to meet the continuing education for Oregon Social Work, Psychology, Licensed Professional Counselors and Marriage Therapists. Please check with your state regarding CE requirements.