Emotion-Focused Therapy for Resolving Emotional Injuries in Older Adults: A Hermeneutic Single-Case Efficacy Design Study

BackgroundRecent years have seen significant growth in the psychological study of forgiveness in aging, with evidence indicating that forgiveness has the potential to facilitate a more positive aging process. Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) has emerged as a therapeutic approach with positive outcomes in treating various psychological issues, such as the resolution of emotional injuries. Yet, up until now, there are no preestablished EFT intervention protocols specifically designed to address the resolution of emotional injuries in older adults (above 65 years old).Aims and MethodThis study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of an EFT protocol for resolving emotional injuries reported by an older adult. To conduct this evaluation, we employed the interpretive approach of the Hermeneutic Single-Case Efficacy Design. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected at different times during the therapy and at two follow-up points.ResultsFrom the beginning of therapy to the second follow-up, the client's level of forgiveness and letting go improved. The quality of life score improved, and the depression score decreased.ConclusionsThe results corroborated significant changes regarding the resolution of client's emotional injuries throughout the psychotherapy sessions. This pioneering case study on EFT, aging, and forgiveness is discussed concerning its potential contributions for future research.