1 The origins of clinical psychoenergetics
Developed in the 1990s by Gary Craig from Dr Roger Callahan's Thought Field Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques belong to mind-body and energy therapies. They rest on the principle that emotional disturbances, anxiety and trauma are accompanied by blocked energy circulation and overactivation of the sympathetic nervous system.
2 The meridian-tapping protocol with verbal expression
The technique combines tactile stimulation of precise points along energy meridians, at the crown, eyebrows, temple, under the eyes, under the nose, chin, collarbones and karate-chop point on the side of the hand, while speaking an affirmation of self-acceptance aloud, such as 'Even though I have this intense anxiety in my throat, I deeply and completely love and accept myself'.
3 Neurophysiological effects and somatic desensitisation
Recent neurobiology studies have demonstrated that gentle mechanical tapping sends stress-reducing signals directly to the brain's amygdala, significantly lowering blood levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. The brain progressively dissociates the painful memory from the physical anxiety response.
4 The place of this approach within care
This approach appeals through its speed and accessibility: easy to learn and practise independently on oneself, it is an excellent technique for immediate soothing in the face of acute stress, stage fright or passing fears.
5 Independent use and complementarity with psychotherapy
EFT is a valuable self-regulation tool that clients can use anywhere as soon as anxiety begins to rise. In therapy, it facilitates access to blocked emotions and accelerates the desensitisation of painful memories.