EFT (also known as "tapping") is rooted in both Eastern and Western theories. From an eastern perspective, EFT works similarly to acupuncture (without the needles) by releasing emotions that are “stuck” energetically and are blocking the flow of chi in our bodies. From a western perspective, EFT is a form of bilateral stimulation that helps facilitate emotional grounding, expression and integration. It is most commonly used in trauma therapy. However, it is also quite effective for other non-trauma related treatment concerns.

 

EFT an evidence-based method that combines tapping on acupressure points and is combined with elements of cognitive and exposure therapies to help integrate and find closure with distressing life experiences. In the cases of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, EFT has been shown to be more effective and have better treatment outcomes than medication therapy and traditional talk therapy.

 

“It’s weird.” That’s how I typically describe it to clients starting out. And admittedly, it is. But it works. We now know it’s important to keep the body involved in the conversation during therapy, particularly when we are processing high-emotion events, such as trauma. Tapping on various points while talking about the emotion of the events helps keep our brain “online” rather than becoming overwhelmed and emotionally dysregulated.

 

EFT is an effective way of clearing out “stuck” emotions related to a distressing event. And once these feelings are released, the associated (and often limiting ) beliefs related to these feelings and events are released as well. This leaves room to develop new more positive and empowering beliefs, and is an important component of therapy.

 

If you believe you might benefit from Emotional Freedom Technique and would like to try tapping for yourself, please contact me today to learn more. I am be happy to speak with you about how I may be able to help.