Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is a unique form of “psychological acupuncture” that uses the ancient Chinese meridian system to relieve psychological stress and physiological pain. EFT balances the energy system with a tapping procedure which stimulates designated meridian endpoints on the face and body. Restoring the balance of the energy system neutralizes emotional conflicts at their source, which then allows the body and mind to resume their natural healing abilities. EFT is safe, easy to apply, and is non-invasive.

Designed by Gary Craig, a personal performance coach in California, EFT belongs to a new class of treatments referred to as Energy Psychology. Gary has dedicated his work and life to teaching people how to overcome emotional and physical blocks to success and has been emotionally, spiritually and financially generous with his discoveries. EFT is one of the most effective, efficient, gentle treatment techniques I have come across since joining the mental health field nearly fifteen years ago.

Over 5000 years ago in ancient China, it was discovered that our bodies have meridians, or pathways, through which energy (Chi) flows. It was also observed that when there is an imbalance or blockage in the flow of Chi within the meridians, different types of emotional disturbances appear along with their corresponding mental issues or problems.

In past 10-20 years the work of several researchers, most notably Dr. Roger J. Callahan and Gary Craig, has proven that the reverse is equally true; that when the energy in the meridians is brought back into balance, the emotions are integrated and restored to their natural state of balance.

Incredible as it may seem, every dis-empowering, negative belief or negative context that we hold is connected with a corresponding imbalance in our energy system and a resulting negative emotion. Correcting the imbalance in the energy system releases the emotion AND the negative belief at the same time.

The EFT process is simple: While holding a problem in mind and feeling the feelings associated with that problem (tuning in to it), you tap with your fingers on specific acupuncture points. This opens the meridians and balances your energy.

EFT, used in conjunction with hypnotherapy is an extremely successful technique. The tapping process can be used with clients who are in hypnosis. Once the emotional charge is released, they are asked to imagine themselves in the future 'free' of this emotional intensity. They often see themselves behaving in completely new, emotionally healthy ways. Because the subconscious mind does not differentiate between visualization and reality, the emotional freedom they've imagined can become the natural way of being for this person.

EFT has been successful with:

Addictive Cravings (food, cigarettes, alcohol, drugs)
Allergies
Anxiety and Panic Attacks
Anger
Compulsions and Obsessions
Depression and Sadness
Dyslexia
Enhancing one's self image
Fears and Phobias
Grief and Loss
Guilt
Insomnia
Negative Memories
Nightmares
Pain and Symptom Management (fibromyalgia, arthritis, back & neck pain)
Physical Healing
Peak Performance (golf, tennis, public speaking, performing in public)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Sexual Abuse Issues

and more...