Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is an evidence-based form of couples therapy pioneered by Dr. Sue Johnson and colleagues in the 1980s. A substantial body of research demonstrates the effectiveness of EFT across cultures. Research studies demonstrate that after 10-12 sessions, 70-75% of couples move from distress to recovery, and 90% of couples show significant improvement (Johnson et al., 1999). 

EFT is focused on fostering secure emotional connection between partners. This is done by helping couples break rigid, negative interaction patterns and replacing them with fluid, empathic interactions that lead to permanent change.

Watch the video below for a brief overview of EFT.

Dave Jackson
Couples Therapist, Psychologist, Speaker, and Facilitator

Dave Jackson, PhD, LP, is a Licensed Psychologist (ND & MN), Certified EFT Therapist, and Certified EFT Supervisor located in Grand Forks, ND. He specializes in couples therapy and is passionate about helping others find secure, meaningful connections with their partners. His amenable and personal demeanor is an asset when helping couples have difficult and powerful conversations. He is gifted in knowing when to be serious and when to appropriately lighten the mood with his charming humor.

He is co-founder of Assessment and Therapy Associates of Grand Forks, PLLC, a group practice dedicated to providing compassionate, effective services that enhances the quality of life of their patients. As a business owner, he has extensive experience with effective communication and finding reasonable resolution.

Dave loves cycling, basketball, camping, and hiking. He enjoys going on adventures with his wife, Erin, who is a sport psychologist, and their three herding mix rescue dogs: Fromm, Bella, and Wilson.


credentials

Dave & his wife, Erin, hiking in Glacier National Park

Dave & his wife, Erin, hiking in Glacier National Park

Dave with his oldest pups, Fromm (l) and Molly (r)

Dave with his oldest pups (the OG!), Fromm (l) and Molly (r). Molly crossed the rainbow bridge in September 2021 after a wonderful 14 years of life.

Dave with his best snuggler, Eddie, who joined the family in 2018. He crossed the rainbow bridge in November 2025 after an unfortunate bout with a fast acting cancer. He was 8.5 years old and was spoiled for the 7 he lived with us!

Bella joined the family in September 2021 with ALL the puppy energy! She’s a sweet, smart, and sassy cattle dog.

Wilson joined the family in December 2025 at 9 months old. After we lost Eddie, Dave was hoping to find another velcro dog, and Wilson certainly fills that role! He’s a sweet boy who LOVES to play fetch.

The fam in June 2018 (pre-Eddie)

The OG in June 2018 (pre-Eddie & Bella)

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Image credits: tyler nix sitjgGsVIAs / Unsplash; Will O / Unsplash