ABSTRACT
In withdrawer re-engagement (WRE), the first of two Stage 2 change events, the formerly withdrawn partner shares attachment fears and needs and, from an engaged and assertive position, asks for what he or she needs to remain engaged and to have a safe and secure connection with the partner. Another observable sign that the withdrawer’s primary emotion might be on the leading edge is an abrupt exit from emotional exploration. Sudden exits or interruptions from the other partner suggest that one partner detected vulnerability and stepped in to block it. Emotional handles indicate that a high level of emotional experiencing is on the leading edge of awareness. An EFT therapist recognises these handles as golden opportunities to seize in order to help partners expand present moment emotional awareness. The fundamental elements of what partners do in the withdrawer reengagement change event are deepening emotional experiencing and risking participating in vulnerable and assertive disclosures and responses.
