Overcoming Obstacles When Incorporating EFT in Psychotherapy and Counselling

Editor's Note: This article was co-authored with George Brooks.

Clients typically seek out counsellors and psychotherapists for traditional therapy rather than specifically for Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). However, like any other approach, EFT can be effectively integrated into professional therapeutic practice. Counsellors and psychotherapists possess therapeutic skills that equip them to work with EFT, but it can be challenging to know how to apply these skills effectively in this context.

We have noticed that integrating EFT can present a series of challenges for counsellors and psychotherapists, especially those with an existing practice. Many of these professionals come to EFT training with real enthusiasm, only to find this integrative process too complex—and as a result, they may end up not using EFT at all.

Why It's Worth Incorporating EFT

Integrating EFT into therapeutic practice can offer numerous benefits:

• One key advantage is EFT's ability to quickly resolve deep-seated issues, often more effectively than traditional talk therapy. Many counsellors and psychotherapists using EFT in their practice regularly report this to trainers, mentors, and supervisors. This reported shorter timeframe and greater effectiveness can be attributed to the somatic aspect that is present for EFT. By way of contrast, in traditional talk therapy, clients may experience improvement when they rationalise memories, but may find that uncomfortable bodily sensations persist when they revisit these same memories with EFT. Body memory can show up in nervous system reactions to present circumstances, and EFT effectively facilitates the release of this aspect for long-term positive change.
• EFT is gaining a reputation as a gentle approach, by which difficult and even traumatic memories can be effectively resolved without having to relive them. Research conducted by Masha Bennett, presented at one of Gwyneth Moss’s Gatherings, suggested that using EFT with difficult memories not only protects clients from overwhelming emotions but also reduces the risk of vicarious trauma amongst practitioners.
• EFT can be a highly empowering tool for clients, allowing them to take an active role in their own healing process. By learning to tap on their own between sessions or even after the conclusion of therapy, clients can gain a greater sense of control and self-efficacy.

Obstacles to Overcome When Incorporating EFT

Integrating EFT can also pose various challenges:

• Because counsellors and psychotherapists have been taught that resolving deep-seated issues takes time, they may be hesitant to trust in how quickly and effectively EFT works.
• Because EFT is considered a relatively new and unconventional approach, professionals wishing to integrate it into their practice may encounter resistance from colleagues, as well as issues with insurance coverage and reimbursement. Fortunately, a robust and growing evidence base supports EFT's effectiveness for issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, pain, and performance.
• The significant amount of time and resources required for training and certification may be a barrier for some professionals to integrate EFT into their practice.
• Some counsellors and psychotherapists may have concerns about the potential risks or side effects of using a technique that involves physical touch, issues of client consent, boundaries, and the potential for misunderstandings or inappropriate interactions.
• Questions about the appropriate scope of practice and the need for additional licensing or credentials may also hold counsellors and psychotherapists back from pursuing the integration of EFT into their practice.

Even counsellors and psychotherapists who have completed EFT training may still encounter challenges including:

• Concerns that you may appear silly or unprofessional
• Uncertainty about how and when to introduce EFT to clients
• Managing client hesitations
• Questions about how to teach clients EFT for self-regulation between sessions
• Lack of clarity about when to use EFT and when to return to traditional therapy
• Concerns over a potential lack of support from a supervisor who doesn't use EFT in their own practice

A Game Plan for Incorporating EFT

Some steps practitioners can take for successful and ethical integration include:

• Seek credentialled training and certification with an established body like EFTi.
• Develop a clear, informed consent process.
• Remember, you already have a set of therapeutic skills that lend themselves to delivering EFT.
• Start slowly and integrate gradually so you become comfortable with the techniques and gauge the client’s receptiveness before fully integrating EFT into your practice.
• Educate clients to address any concerns or misconceptions.
• Collaborate with peers who are also integrating EFT into their practice.
• Get appropriate mentoring and supervision from accredited experts.
• Stay informed stay open to adapting your approach with the latest developments and best practices in the field of EFT.

As the fields of psychotherapy and counselling continue to evolve, integrating innovative, somatic approaches like EFT is becoming increasingly relevant. Although there are challenges, the benefits of incorporating EFT are significant. By embracing EFT and committing to the necessary training, accreditation, and ongoing professional development, you can offer your clients a powerful and transformative therapeutic experience.

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Falguni Mather is a certified accredited EFT master trainer based in Hong Kong.

George Brooks is a certified accredited EFT master trainer based in the United Kingdom.

Image credit: Zan Lazarevic on Unsplash