Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) Therapy

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is a gentle, evidence-informed therapeutic approach that combines elements of cognitive therapy with somatic (body-based) stimulation. Often referred to as “tapping therapy,” EFT involves lightly tapping on specific acupressure points on the body while focusing on a distressing thought, emotion, memory, or physical sensation.

This process helps regulate the nervous system, reduce emotional intensity, and support lasting psychological change.

What Is EFT?

EFT was developed in the 1990s by Gary Craig, who was one of Roger Callahan’s  Thought Field Therapy (TFT) students. Callahan and Craigs work is influenced by principles from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and traditional Chinese acupressure.

During an EFT session, you will:

• Identify a specific issue (e.g., anxiety before presentations, a painful memory, cravings, or self-doubt)
• Rate the emotional intensity
• Use a structured tapping sequence on acupressure points (such as the side of the hand, eyebrow, under eye, collarbone)
• Pair tapping with focused statements that acknowledge the issue while cultivating self-acceptance

The goal is not to suppress emotions, but to process them in a way that reduces their charge and restores emotional balance.

How Does EFT Work?

While research is ongoing, EFT is thought to work by:

• Calming the amygdala (the brain’s threat detection centre)
• Reducing the physiological stress response
• Allowing distressing memories to be processed without overwhelm
• Supporting new cognitive and emotional associations

By engaging both the mind and body, EFT helps shift emotional patterns that may feel “stuck” despite insight or willpower.

What Can EFT Help With?

EFT may be helpful for:

• Anxiety and stress
• Trauma and PTSD symptoms
• Phobias and fears
• Grief and unresolved emotional pain
• Performance anxiety
• Addictive urges and unwanted habits
• Low self-worth or negative self-talk
• Chronic stress-related physical symptoms

It can be used as a stand-alone intervention or integrated into broader psychotherapy or counselling work.

What to Expect in an EFT Session

EFT sessions are collaborative and paced to your comfort level. You remain fully conscious and in control at all times.

A typical session may include:

• Clarifying the issue and identifying core beliefs or emotions
• Guided tapping rounds
• Tracking emotional intensity as it shifts
• Exploring underlying themes or earlier experiences
• Integrating insights into everyday life

Many clients report feeling calmer, clearer, and more emotionally regulated after sessions.

Is EFT Evidence-Based?

EFT has a growing body of clinical research supporting its use for anxiety, trauma, and stress-related symptoms. It is increasingly integrated into trauma-informed and integrative psychotherapy approaches.

As with all therapeutic modalities, outcomes vary from person to person. EFT works best when tailored to the individual and delivered within a safe, therapeutic relationship.

A Gentle, Practical Approach to Emotional Change

EFT can be especially helpful if you:

• Feel overwhelmed by traditional “talk-only” therapy
• Struggle to regulate strong emotional responses
• Want practical tools you can use between sessions
• Notice stress shows up physically in your body

Because EFT is simple to learn, many clients find it empowering to use tapping techniques independently between appointments.

Integrating EFT Into Your Therapy

In our work together, EFT may be integrated alongside other approaches such as:

• Cognitive and behavioural strategies
• Trauma-informed therapy
• Somatic awareness work
• Hypnotherapy (where appropriate)

The approach is always tailored to your needs, goals, and preferences.

If you are curious about whether Emotional Freedom Technique is right for you, you are welcome to book a confidential complimentary introductory session to explore how this approach may support your wellbeing.