What is EFT?
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), often referred to as "Tapping" is a stress reduction technique that includes elements of cognitive therapy alongside the physical stimulation of known acupuncture points. It is a somatic (body-based) stress-management tool.
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EFT can address a range of issues by tapping on specific points on the body while focusing on a specific issue or problem. In doing so, we are able to target specific areas of the brain associated with emotional regulation, such as the Amygdala (stress centre in the brain) and the Hippocampus (memory centre). In studies, EFT has been shown to significantly lower cortisol levels, which is the stress hormone.
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While traditional talk therapies get you talking about your issues, they often don’t acknowledge what you are feeling in your body. Somatic tools, such as EFT, acknowledge your body’s experience and offer a way to regulate those sensations. EFT has been shown to work as effectively as "gold standard" approaches to therapy (such as CBT and EMDR) for certain challenges, often with quicker results in fewer sessions. Acknowledging and processing the feelings held in your body is powerful!
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Researched for more than 20 years and with research ongoing across a range of conditions, Clinical (Evidence Based - EB-EFT) EFT's effectiveness has been established for phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, pain and more.
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How is EFT used in a session?
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Clinical EFT is facilitated by a trained practitioner.
Together, you work with the practitioner to identify specific issues, with the practitioner guiding you through the tapping process.
This process supports you to focus on the issue at hand whilst using appropriate language and somatic processes to create change and facilitate healing.
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EFT has been found to help to reduce or in many cases eliminate negative emotions, leaving you feeling calmer, clearer and more in control.
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EFT is considered to be a safe and non-invasive therapy.
What's the difference between Tapping & Clinical EFT?
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You may have seen or heard the term “tapping” which is often used interchangeably with the term EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques), but there are some important differences between the two.
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The "Tapping" you may have come across is a popular self-help technique that works by tapping on specific points on the body while focusing on a specific issue or problem, often quickly shifting to a positive statement.
This type of tapping is a wonderful self-help tool (one that first introduced me to EFT and has been very helpful to me over the years).
This type of self-help "Tapping" is perfect for lighter and less complex issues and as a stress-reduction technique.
Clinical, evidence-based EFT refers to the application of EFT as an evidence-based psychological intervention, as opposed to a self-help technique.
In a clinical setting, EFT is typically administered by a trained therapist or practitioner who follows a specific protocol and uses assessment tools to measure the client’s progress.
The practitioner works with the client to identify specific issues or problems, then develops a treatment plan that incorporates EFT alongside other tools and techniques.
This process allows us to go deeper, safely and gently getting to the core of any issues and creating long-lasting change.
EFT provides a gentle way to process difficult and/or traumatic emotions and situations, regulating the nervous system and supporting a deep sense of calm and safety in the body.
Dr. Peta Stapleton has led the Australian research into Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) or ‘tapping’, which is used to treat a number of conditions including chronic pain, obesity, anxiety and stress.
Dr Stapleton has 20 years experience as a registered Clinical and Health Psychologist in Queensland. She is the founder of Evidence Based EFT, providing high-level training and education for therapists and practitioners across the world.
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In this video she presents a TEDx talk about EFT as part of a 4th wave of therapy, including a demonstration.
“Heather is an absolute joy to work with, always extremely patient, and willing to share her gifts with zero judgement”
Sanela - Sydney, NSW
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