“It Was a Reminder of My Own Freedom” Reflections on the First LGBTQ+ Centered EFCT Externship

This study explores the impact of the first LGBTQ + centered Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy (EFCT) Externship on participating LGBTQ + therapists. Through thematic analysis, this study found that creating a identity-based training fostered a safe and accepting environment where LGBTQ + identifying therapists felt comfortable exploring aspects of their own identities and attachment styles. This safety created a deeper understanding of EFCT which increased therapists’ confidence and preparedness to work with relationships using EFCT. Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of identity-centered trainings for LGBTQ + therapists using evidence-based treatments and adds to the literature about the potential for identity centered trainings.