What is EFT "Tapping"?

EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) is a brief self-applied stress reduction technique using elements of cognitive therapy, with physical stimulation of acupuncture points.

It is often referred to as ‘Tapping’ as it uses a two finger tapping process on known acupuncture points.

EFT can address a range of issues by simply focusing on the issue you would like to address with an acceptance statement, along with a simple two finger tapping technique.

Research, including randomised clinical trials and meta analyses has established effectiveness for phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, pain and more.

How Does EFT Work?

The proposed mechanisms behind EFT include deactivation of the amygdala (stress centre in the brain) and hippocampus (memory centre), as well as recent research into vagal nerve improvement. Ultimately the research to date points to regulation of the autonomic nervous system.

EFT has also been shown to significantly lower cortisol levels, which is the stress hormone, in clinical trial research.

Research on gene expression indicates EFT has has the ability to down regulate genes associated with the stress response, and up-regulate or improve immune functioning.

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Free Video Series

The Science Behind Tapping

Access our Free Online Series "The Science Tapping" with World Leading Researcher Dr Peta Stapleton who has over 30 years experience in teaching and delivering EFT based education.

EFT has research including randomised clinical trials, meta analyses and more for conditions such as (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, phobias and PTSD.

This three part series explores all of the latest findings and discoveries in clinical EFT.

Access "The Science Of Tapping"

This 3 part series is taken from EFT HQ, The World's largest online resource of Clinical EFT.

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Growth and Acceptance

As of 2020: 18 randomised control trials, 50+ randomised control trials, 50+ pre-post outcome studies, 50+ trials in non-English journals
2014–2016: 2 meta-analyses show energy psychology effective for depression and anxiety
2017: Meta-analysis shows EFT effective for PTSD
2019: Meta analysis shows tapping on the acupressure points is an active ingredient in the process (changes not due to the therapeutic relationship, other factors such as deep breathing etc)
2018-2019: Two studies on DNA changes after EFT First fMRI study on EFT published
2019: Blue Knot Foundation for (trauma) includes EFT in PTSD clinical guidelines in Australia
2020: EFT approved under the National Insurance Disability Scheme NDIS) for therapy in Australia 2020: Australian Psychological Society features EFT during National Psychology Week as emerging approach for pain
2020: APA journal (USA) published EFT cortisol replication study
2020: A major review of psychological treatments for PTSD – Energy psychology (combined somatic/cognitive therapies) was the 2nd most effective at reducing PTSD symptoms at the end of treatment to waitlist (after EMDR which was found to be most effective). Further, energy psychology had the greatest cost savings over no treatment, followed by EMDR, trauma-focused CBT and then other treatments
2021: APA approved EFT to be reviewed for trauma and PTSD and inclusion on the evidence based psychological treatments list (Dr Peta is leading this).

Disclaimer

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is considered experimental in nature. While it is gaining in scientific support and is accepted as a legitimate psychological technique, it is not yet widely accepted as a formally validated scientific technique.

All workshops and trainings are intended to promote awareness of the benefits of learning and applying Clinical EFT (the version tested in clinical research trials). However, the general public must take full responsibility for their use of it. The content on this website and any materials we provide you about EFT are provided for general informational purposes only. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional psychological, psychiatric, or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, psychologist, or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or mental health issue. Never disregard professional advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

If you experience any unusual symptoms practicing the technique you should seek the advice of a health professional immediately. Although the results of our research and others in the academic world indicate that many people benefit from the use of Clinical EFT with their food cravings, weight loss, anxiety and depression, the responses to the technique are quite specific to each individual. The effectiveness of EFT may vary from person to person, and such we make no guarantees about individual outcomes. A lack of result or progress may mean you need advice or intervention from a health professional. For assistance to locate an appropriate health professional, please email us at [email protected].

Before making any dietary changes or discontinuing, reducing or increasing prescription medications it is recommended that you consult with your doctor, pharmacist or other qualified medical or health professional first.

While Dr Peta Stapleton is a registered psychologist, all EFT trainings, courses and products (free or for purchase) offered by the Company are not a psychological service. Any reliance you place on the information provided on this website or any other content is strictly at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage, including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss or damage arising from your use of our trainings, courses or products.

Please visit our terms and conditions of using this website here https://www.evidencebasedeft.com/terms-and-conditions