What is EFT?
EFT – Emotional Freedom Technique – is a mind-body technique and a modality of energy psychology that helps to harmonize the body’s energy systems, process negative emotions, reduce stress, and release trauma and limiting beliefs. EFT changes a person's internal emotional state, and when that state shifts, so does their perception of events, experiences, themselves, and their life. As a result, the quality of life improves over time.
Why is EFT a powerful tool?
Sometimes, simply talking about a problem doesn’t help. Even when we realize that our thoughts, actions, or perceptions are negative or unhelpful, we often can’t force ourselves to change—no matter how hard we try. EFT helps us go deeper, allowing us to acknowledge our true emotions and pain. When we allow ourselves to feel them without resistance, those emotions begin to move, transform, and eventually release, along with the tension stored in the body. During an EFT session, we consciously work with the body’s energy system by tapping on acupuncture points, based on the principles of Chinese medicine.
Suppressed and rejected emotions create energy blockages
Emotions are energy in motion. They draw our attention to desires, discomforts, or unresolved situations. When we listen to our emotions, they guide us toward a more authentic and aligned life. But often, we suppress or reject our negative emotions, avoiding them entirely. Over time, this emotional suppression can lead to deeper problems—not just psychologically and emotionally, but also physically and energetically. Interestingly, when we block negative emotions, we often block positive ones too.
The body can be healed through the mind—and the mind through the body
Many people have heard the idea that changing your thoughts can heal the body. But few realize the opposite is also true: we can heal the mind by working with the body.
A brief history of EFT
EFT was developed by American engineer Gary Craig, who was passionate about helping people overcome emotional limitations. Fascinated by psychology, Craig worked with NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) for many years before discovering a ground-breaking technique called TFT (Thought Field Therapy), developed by clinical psychologist Roger Callahan.
After studying with Callahan, Craig developed his own version—Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)—which he believed made the process more accessible. He later refined it with Adrienne Fowlie and tested the method on traumatized war veterans, many of whom reported significant improvements in their quality of life after EFT sessions.
You can read more about the origins and success of EFT in the book Emotional Healing in Minutes by Valerie and Paul Lynch.
Is EFT based on the placebo effect?
Some people claim that EFT works only because of the placebo effect. However, belief in EFT’s effectiveness isn’t necessary for it to work. Even if clients initially find the tapping movements strange or unfamiliar, changes often begin once they simply let go and follow the process.
Is EFT a miracle cure?
EFT is not a miracle—it’s personal work. And that’s important to keep in mind.
While I personally consider EFT the most powerful tool I use for shifting my inner state or changing my reality, practicing it still requires presence, energy, and intention.
Some issues can be resolved in a single session. Others take time and emotional courage. Sometimes, only a small part of a deeper issue can be addressed in one session, which is why ongoing work is often recommended.
An EFT therapist acts as a supportive guide—someone who helps you uncover the root of the problem and makes it easier to go within and do the deeper emotional work.
EN 
LV