Book Review: The Hold Me Tight Workbook by Dr. Sue Johnson
A Practical Guide to Deepening Connection and Healing Together
Author: Dr. Sue Johnson
Published: 2019
Focus: Guided relationship exercises based on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Affiliate Link to Get the Book: Amazon, Bookshop.org
What’s in the Hold Me Tight Workbook?
The Hold Me Tight Workbook is the hands-on companion to the original book Hold Me Tight. It’s designed for couples who want to put the concepts of Emotionally Focused Therapy into action, whether on their own or alongside couples therapy.
The workbook follows the same structure as the original book, built around the seven essential conversations that help couples break negative cycles, understand each other’s emotional needs, and grow closer. But this time, it comes with step-by-step exercises, guided reflections, discussion prompts, and journaling space to work through together.
It’s less about reading and more about doing—together.
Why Is the Workbook Helpful?
1. It Brings the Theory to Life
The original Hold Me Tight book is rich in insight, but it can feel theoretical at times. The workbook makes it real. It turns ideas into conversations, moments of insight into moments of connection.
2. It Creates Structure for Deep Conversations
Many couples want to talk more deeply but don’t know where to start. This workbook gives you a safe, structured way to begin. Each exercise builds trust, fosters vulnerability, and helps you listen with curiosity instead of defensiveness.
3. It Can Be Used With or Without a Therapist
While it's a powerful tool to use during couples therapy, you don't have to be in therapy to benefit. If you're looking for a self-guided way to work on your relationship, this workbook is one of the most research-backed options out there.
4. It Makes Healing Tangible
When you're stuck in conflict or distance, it can feel overwhelming. This workbook breaks the process into manageable steps, helping you move from confusion to clarity, disconnection to closeness.
Who Should Use the Hold Me Tight Workbook?
Couples Who Are Ready to Dive In: If you're both motivated to grow and heal together, this workbook gives you the roadmap. It’s especially helpful for couples who are open to vulnerability and want tools to navigate emotional stuck points.
Partners Looking to Repair After Conflict: If you've been through a hard season—infidelity, major life stress, or ongoing disconnection—this workbook can help rebuild emotional safety and trust.
Couples in Therapy (Especially EFT): The workbook is an excellent supplement to Emotionally Focused Therapy, reinforcing the themes and giving couples something to work on between sessions.
Self-Starters or DIY Couples: Even if you’re not in therapy, this is a fantastic way to create meaningful rituals of connection and strengthen your bond from home.
Key Topics You’ll Explore Together
Identifying your negative cycle
Expressing fears and needs safely
Creating emotional responsiveness
Repairing attachment injuries
Deepening physical and emotional intimacy
Strengthening your secure bond
Final Thoughts: Why I Recommend It
The Hold Me Tight Workbook is not just an activity book—it’s a journey into the heart of your relationship. It invites couples to be brave, honest, and compassionate with each other, and offers just enough guidance to make difficult conversations feel possible and productive.
It’s a wonderful resource to use between sessions, or as a stand-alone way to reconnect and heal. For couples who want not just to understand their relationship, but to transform it, this workbook is a powerful, practical ally.
Interested in working through this workbook with support? Let's talk about how we can use it together in therapy. Providing services to couples in Colorado and Hawaii.
Your relationship deserves the space to thrive.