Unlock the Power of EFT Tapping: A Tool for Healing and Emotional Freedom

“If we stimulate an acupuncture point, whether that’s with Tapping or using a traditional acupuncture needle, the amygdala, that stress center, deactivates – and quickly.”
— Dr. Peta Stapleton, PhD, Psychologist

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), commonly referred to as “Tapping,” is an evidence-based therapy that combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy and other modalities with the principles of Chinese acupuncture. Instead of using needles, EFT uses gentle fingertip tapping on acupuncture points. This tapping sends a message to the amygdala—the brain’s stress center—telling it that it is safe, effectively turning off the alarm response.

EFT is a unique blend of somatic therapy and cognitive therapy. It has two key components: tapping on acupuncture points and counseling or therapy. This dual approach—tapping on acupoints while engaging in counseling or therapy—creates a comprehensive method for healing the mind and body while addressing the nervous system imbalance that often underlies anxiety, depression, emotional struggles, and even physical illness.

The Science Behind EFT: Why It Works

EFT is an evidence-based therapy, with numerous studies confirming its effectiveness, particularly in treating trauma and PTSD. For a deeper dive into the research, visit Dr. Peta Stapleton’s website.

“The best way out is always through.”
— Robert Frost

The goal of EFT is to address core issues, including past traumas, beliefs, and memories. These emotional shadows are often deeply rooted in childhood experiences, forming false beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve us. To heal, we must confront the uncomfortable emotions and patterns stored in our bodies.

“You might not remember it, but your nervous system does.”
— Victoria Erickson

These deep-seated emotions often trigger the fight, flight, or freeze response, as the body perceives emotional threats similarly to physical ones. A remark at a social gathering, a canceled plan, or an unanswered email may seem harmless, but they can activate the nervous system because they echo past hurts. Your nervous system is trying to protect you from reliving those painful experiences.

How EFT Calms the Nervous System

“There are three key reasons for EFT’s efficacy: it reduces stress, diminishes the intensity of emotional trauma, and modifies how the brain processes emotional information.”
— Dawson Church, PhD

EFT Tapping provides a gentle, effective tool to calm the nervous system. By tapping on acupuncture points, we send a signal to the brain that it is safe, even in the presence of difficult emotions or memories. This allows for inner work to take place without retraumatization, much like being given a life jacket in rough waters as you’re gently pulled to shore.

EFT: Self-Help vs. Professional Guidance

In today’s world, self-help resources are readily available, including for EFT Tapping. While the shortened versions of EFT often found on social media or in apps can help manage everyday stress and emotions, it’s important to note that these versions use a simplified, general and scripted format, which lacks the depth and personalization required for deeper emotional work.

In a professional EFT session, a longer, more thorough version of Tapping is used, along with techniques such as the 9-gamut procedure. This technique provides bilateral brain stimulation, similar to what occurs during REM sleep or EMDR therapy. A certified EFT practitioner tailors the session to the specific needs of the client, using various therapeutic techniques to address the root issues. The process is collaborative and specific to what is coming up for the client in the moment so deeper, personal issues can be addressed.

When to Seek Professional EFT Support

While self-Tapping is excellent for daily stress management and improving general well-being, more complex emotional struggles, such as trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, or intense emotions, often require professional help. If you are facing these challenges, it’s essential to reach out to a certified EFT practitioner or a licensed therapist who can guide you through the deeper healing process.

What’s Next?

In Part 2, I will explain the specific EFT Tapping points and offer tips on how you can incorporate Tapping into your self-care routine. With consistent practice, you can experience more calm, emotional empowerment, and improved mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Written by Michele Venema BScN, RN, Psychotherapist, cEFT2 AEFTP
Nurse Psychotherapist/EFT Practitioner

From Shadows to SoulLight Counselling