What is EFT? An introduction to “tapping” from a Florida therapist

Have you ever felt “stuck”? Like you just can’t get over whatever is holding you down? You can’t get past the hurt you feel, no matter how hard you try. Perhaps, you’re holding onto something so tightly you don’t even know it’s also holding you back. It’s become a part of the fabric of your life, like breathing. Can you think of something like that? 

Processing trauma and stress is hard. It can be mentally exhausting and emotionally taxing. Dealing with emotional distress is necessary. But, it is heavy and exhausting and not always a great time. It involves a lot of therapy appointments with a trained, professional therapist to process the heavy things. As a therapist, I will of course recommend finding the perfect fit for you. Personally, I like to also encourage my clients to build a whole toolbox of coping skills and strategies to process their feelings and experiences. I’ve written about mindfulness, journaling, healthy morning, afternoon, sleep routines, and more.

EFT: Emotional Freedom Technique, or Tapping

This technique for managing stress, anxiety, and trauma triggers are not new but has started gaining popularity in recent years. Stress is now a worldwide epidemic and now that we are adding a global pandemic on top of it, people are desperate for solutions. I would definitely encourage you to check out “The Tapping Solution” to learn all of the in-depth information about EFT, but this post will help frame EFT for those of you who may want more info before diving in.

Can EFT replace my medication?

Of course, some of my clients need medication to balance chemicals and hormones in order to live their best lives. Emotional Freedom Technique, or EFT, can work as a replacement for medication. Tapping also helps if you are desperate to heal or are wanting to take control of your treatment. With proper guidance and practice, EFT can serve as an alternative to medication. Further, it can replace PRN–or, as needed–medications for your anxious moments. It acts as a more natural “chill pill” than your medication. Tapping also works faster than medication, as the effects are immediate with tapping. I certainly do NOT recommend diagnosing yourself and/or stopping your medication(s) on your own. Please consult with your care provider(s) and mental health team before making those drastic changes.

Why EFT? Why Tapping?

What I want you to consider while reading this is looking into tapping as a possible tool to add to your box of coping skills. It works as a calming technique to help you ground yourself in the middle of a crisis. Further, it allows you to process heavy information and accept it for what it is and where you are. This is even something you can do while talking with a therapist! Especially if you’re doing online therapy in the comfort and familiarity of your own space. EFT helps you to take control of your therapy sessions. And, it allows you to feel empowered about your mental health.

Emotional Freedom Tapping is a series of taps that you can perform on yourself.

EFT helps whenever you are feeling anxious or emotionally distressed. When practicing EFT, you tap on meridian points, or pressure points, on your face and body to release tension. While tapping, you repeat a phrase of acceptance about your current situation. For example, you may say, “Even though I have PTSD, I deeply and completely accept myself.” Statements like this allow for your brain to sit and process that information. You can work to rewire your brain and teach yourself to accept the circumstances you are in. Additionally, it can help you come to terms with your past trauma and current progress.

Tapping techniques work as a therapeutic technique in a structured setting with a therapist. Yet, it can also work as a coping skill to use in times of stress. Tapping can help to recenter yourself and reconnect.

Have Questions? Reach Out!

EFT has been shown to help with stress reduction, PTSD symptoms, trauma response, grief and loss, depression, and so much more. I’d love to write more about EFT for specific issues and concerns. What do you want to know more about? What would be helpful for you to hear more of? Leave a comment below. I truly want to provide value and skills to help with your life. If you want to talk more about stress, anxiety, imposter syndrome, and more, let’s get connected.

Begin Therapy for Women in Florida

If you are looking for a therapist who specializes in helping women, I am here to support you. Let’s get you grounded. Feeling more fulfilled and full of life. To begin counseling in-person or online therapy for women in Florida, follow these three steps:

1. Contact Counseling Solutions of Boward to schedule your free 20-minute consultation on a video platform,

2. Meet with me, Enid, and let’s get started! 

3. Finally, feel the peace and fulfillment you’ve been searching for since becoming a mother.