The Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) is an evidence-based psycho-sensory therapeutic modality that combines tapping on acupressure points with principles of cognitive behavioral psychology and exposure therapy. EFT has been empirically shown to be effective for a variety of mental health issues, most especially anxiety and depression. It also aids in helping clients shift their negative beliefs into more empowering ones. In this course, you will learn the science behind EFT, how to do it, and the best ways to introduce this powerful tool to clients. As a simple yet profound healing modality, EFT is easily shared with clients, making it a powerful addition to your therapeutic toolbox.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to:
- Identify the science behind how the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) influences the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems
- Identify the series of acupressure points that EFT uses
- Demonstrate the basic protocol of EFT
- Discuss at least three ways to use language to help clients effectively utilize the EFT protocol
- Identify when to use and when to avoid using EFT for specific behavioral health issues
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Foundations and Theory of EFT
- Trace the development of EFT from kinesiology, acupuncture, and energy psychology
- Define EFT as a mind-body intervention using acupressure points and verbal processing
- Understand EFT as a type of exposure therapy integrating cognitive and somatic elements
- Explore EFT’s impact on nervous system regulation, cortisol reduction, and trauma memory processing
Objective #2: The EFT Protocol and Acupressure Points
- Identify the major tapping points used in EFT and their corresponding Chinese meridians
- Practice the “Basic Recipe” involving SUD rating, setup phrase, and tapping sequence
- Apply alternative language through the “Choices Method” for personalized affirmation
- Integrate structured repetition, reframing statements, and round-by-round progression
Objective #3: Integrating Language and Cognitive Techniques
- Create specific and emotionally resonant setup phrases
- Use structured sentence stems to uncover core beliefs, fears, and needs
- Address secondary emotions (e.g., sadness beneath anger) during phrasing
- Modify language dynamically throughout the tapping process
Objective #4: Advanced Applications and Adaptations of EFT
- Utilize EFT for acute anxiety, chronic stress, and trauma memory reconsolidation
- Incorporate bilateral stimulation to enhance processing and reduce reactivity
- Use Tearless Trauma Technique and sneaking up/down methods for complex trauma
- Apply EFT with visualizations such as safe place, inner guides, and emotional containers
Objective #5: When to Use and Avoid EFT in Clinical Practice
- Apply EFT to treat issues including anxiety, panic, depression, cravings, insomnia, and shame
- Explore use with children and parents using simplified language and creative formats
- Recognize indications of resistance or secondary gain that may limit effectiveness
- Avoid use with clients who cannot tolerate emotional activation or lack grounding resources
Objective #6: Special Topics in EFT Application
- Address secondary gain through reflective questions and inquiry
- Apply EFT in chronic pain work: physical beliefs, emotional responses, and self-concept
- Use tapping as a resource installation and regulation strategy in trauma work
- Adapt EFT for children through modeling, simplification, and playful approaches
Objective #7: Supplementary Practices and Evidence Base
- Introduce links to research studies validating EFT for a variety of clinical outcomes
- Highlight integrations with CBT, narrative therapy, IFS, and hypnosis
- Reinforce EFT as evidence-based and suitable for trauma-informed care
- Provide reading list and video resources for continued learning
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Dreya Blume, LCSW
Recording Date: May 27, 2024
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com