Winny Lu Aldridge
Certified EFT Trainer-in-Training, Supervisor, and Therapist
How the EFT Community in Singapore Began and Grew
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) first came to Singapore in 2007, when Dr. Ting Liu introduced this meaningful, evidence-based approach to supporting couples. At the time, EFT was new to many of us, but her visit planted the seeds for a movement that would steadily grow and flourish.
We are deeply grateful to Dr. Ting Liu, whose dedication and generosity have been vital in nurturing EFT’s presence here. Despite her busy schedule, she has made regular visits over the years, always encouraging us with hope and care that more people in Singapore would benefit from EFT. What makes Dr. Ting’s guidance especially precious is her deep understanding of and sensitivity to Asian culture. Her culturally attuned approach has made a real difference in how we learn and practice EFT in our local context. We truly appreciate all she has done and continues to do for our community.
In those early days, learning EFT wasn’t easy. Resources and supervision opportunities were limited, and there was no local community to turn to. Only a few practitioners pursued certification through the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (ICEEFT).
But slowly, a small group of therapists began training together, supporting one another, and embracing the transformative power of EFT. In 2019, some of us formed an informal support group that eventually grew into the Singapore Community for Emotionally Focused Therapy (SGEFT). We proudly became an ICEEFT-affiliated community in 2021.
Today, we have over 60 members and continue to grow. It has been truly heartwarming to see more therapists embracing EFT and experiencing the deep connection it brings to their work. We meet regularly for Peer Support Groups, with members taking turns to facilitate learning in both online and in-person sessions. Together, we share referrals, ask questions, and deepen our understanding of EFT.
EFT is more relevant than ever, as individuals, couples, and families face growing emotional and relational challenges in modern Singapore. Many therapists now use EFT not only in couple therapy, but also with individuals and families.
We offer regular training in all three main EFT approaches:
- EFCT – Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy
- EFIT – Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy
- EFFT – Emotionally Focused Family Therapy
While EFT is a proven and effective approach, becoming a skilled EFT practitioner takes more than just attending EFT training. Ongoing supervision and peer support are essential. Join us in our peer learning group. Let’s LEARN and GROW together in this powerful modality.
From the early seeds of EFT sown in Singapore by Dr. Ting Liu, a vibrant and supportive community has grown. Our journey has been shaped by heart, connection, and resilience. We take pride in being a diverse and inclusive group, welcoming members of all backgrounds, regardless of religion, language, gender, or culture. As we move forward, I look forward to continuing this journey together and sharing the healing impact of EFT with more people throughout Singapore and across Southeast Asia.