Emotional Freedom Technique
Emotional Freedom Technique is an evolved modality that is shown to be evidence-supported in treating many concerns including anxiety, emotional disturbances, food cravings, and disturbing memories. While other modalities predate EFT including Thought Field Therapy (TFT) created by Dr. Roger Callahan, EFT was created by Gary Craig who wanted to simplify the process of TFT and thus created EFT.
EFT combines the use of psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and use of Meridians which is also used in acupuncture. Different from using needles to release chi (energy) from the meridian point, EFT uses a firm tapping on the identified meridian points. In a session, the therapist instructs the client on the tapping points and guides them through a series of statements to help focus on the problem at hand and release the energy through the associated tapping points. After a round of tapping, the therapist will check in with the state of the problem by asking the client to check with their body for any somatic responses, gauge their emotional reaction, or visualize the problem at hand. If there is alleviation it distress, tappint will continue until complete alleviation has occurred. If there is no alleviation after two rounds, then the therapist will pause the tapping for further problem solving.
In 2019, I was able to complete EFT Level 1 and Level 2 trainings through the Association of Comprehensive Energy Psychology. Currently I am in the process of becoming an ACEP-Certified EFT Practitioner. To maintain my familiarity with the technique, I maintain status as a member of the ACEP organization and keep up to date on the latest releases of research on the use of EFT and maintain my familiarity with use of the modality.
Special Note: Because of the nature and complexity of anxiety, emotional disturbances, and experiences of trauma, I will not make any guarantees or promises of EFT in being the appropriate modality for your needs prior to an initial appointment. While EFT best used clinically in your therapy sessions, I have provided example videos below to create familiarity with EFT.
While EFT stands to have growing research that supports it as an effective modality, it is not yet to be identified as an Evidence-Based Treatment. If EFT is suggested in your sessions, you have the right to refuse use of this modality. Please refer here for more current information in the research of EFT.
