Emotional Freedom Techniques

What is Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT)?

The Emotional Freedom Techniques, or EFT (also know as Tapping), was founded in 1995 by Gary Craig, through simplifying Dr. Roger Callahan’s Thought Field Therapy (TFT). It’s a form of psychological acupressure based on the same energy meridians used in traditional acupuncture but without the needles. It involves gentle tapping with your (or your therapist’s) fingers on specific points of the head and upper body while you think about your issue and voicing your experience.

EFT is a wonderfully safe, gentle and effective method for removing the charge of strong, emotional and physical pain. It’s also used to enhance positive and nourishing feelings too. The technique is easy to learn and can therefore also be used as a safe and effective self-help tool, but please always work with a therapist on issues with a very high emotional charge.

How do I use EFT?

In therapy I integrate EFT into my practice and along with Matrix Reimprinting and Matrix Birth Reimprinting, also offer it as a ‘stand-alone’ therapy. I use EFT to gently clear the root causes of trauma symptoms, core issues, unhelpful behaviours and limiting/negative beliefs resulting in significant improvements in physical, mental and emotional well-being, and freedom from traumatic memory.

What is EFT effective for?

  • Trauma
  • PTSD
  • Anxiety and panic
  • Anger and depression
  • Stress
  • Fears and phobias
  • Addiction
  • Physical issues

Generally, EFT benefits most things. It is also very helpful in supporting clients towards their goals including general self-development (more confidence, self-esteem, peace and calm).

Scientific research for Emotional Freedom Techniques

There is now a good body of scientific evidence in favour of EFT. If you are interested please see the following:

EFT International – Science and Research Behind EFT Tapping
EFT Universe – EFT Research
PTSDUK – Efficacy of EFT

Sandwell EFT service evaluation

This UK research demonstrated significant improvements with Emotional Freedom Techniques offered through an NHS-based service for a range of psychological conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, depression, low self-esteem, anger, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic, phobia, bereavement, sadness, eating disorders, and problems following sexual abuse:

Stewart, A., Boath, E., Carryer, A., Walton, I., Hill, L.  (2013) Can Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) be effective in the treatment of emotional conditions? Results of a Service Evaluation in Sandwell. Journal of Psychological Therapies in Primary Care, 2, 71-84.

Useful reading

A Practical Guide to EFT. Judy Byrne.
The Tapping Solution. Nick Ortner.