EFT for Trauma and PTSD. What Research Says About Tapping and Post-Traumatic Stress

There is growing interest in EFT for emotional trauma and PTSD.

The body can remain in a state of alert after shock, abuse, violence, or intense relational experiences. Reactions may persist long after the event.

Emotional trauma is not only a difficult memory.

It is stored in the nervous system.

Even when the event is over, the body may continue to react as if the danger is still present.

In some cases, these symptoms meet criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder.

In other situations, they reflect relational or developmental trauma that significantly impacts daily life without necessarily meeting formal diagnostic criteria.

Therapeutic work focuses on two essential goals.

Reducing emotional intensity.

Restoring a sense of internal safety.

EFT, Emotional Freedom Techniques, is a structured method combining:

In research settings, this protocol is referred to as Clinical EFT.

EFT is commonly used for emotional trauma, PTSD symptoms, intense anxiety, and body-based reactions linked to difficult memories.

It is integrated within a broader therapeutic framework.

Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have examined the effectiveness of EFT for post-traumatic stress symptoms.

A meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychology reports significant reductions in PTSD symptoms following Clinical EFT protocols compared to waitlist or usual care.

Link: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1195286

The website Evidence Based EFT summarizes clinical studies focused on trauma and PTSD and provides practice guidelines based on available research.

Link: https://www.evidencebasedeft.com/ptsd-and-trauma

Research includes:

EFT International also provides a scientific research library dedicated to trauma and PTSD.

Link: https://eftinternational.org/eft-science-topics/trauma-ptsd/

The body of research is growing, although it remains smaller than that of EMDR or trauma-focused CBT.

Clinical trials have been conducted with U.S. veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress symptoms, showing significant reductions in PTSD scores following EFT treatment.

The U.S. Department of Defense has published an evidence brief reviewing research on EFT for PTSD.

Link:

https://health.mil/Reference-Center/Publications/2021/04/26/PHCoE-Evidence-Brief-Emotional-Freedom-Technique-for-Posttraumatic-Stress-Disorder-508

In the United Kingdom, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has referenced EFT within its research recommendations for PTSD, indicating a need for further data before formal guideline inclusion.

These elements reflect scientific and institutional interest, without constituting universal recognition as a standard treatment.

Discussions within the scientific community focus on:

Responsible use of EFT involves integrating it within a structured therapeutic framework, particularly in cases of complex trauma.

I am trained in Person-Centered Psychotherapy, accredited by the FF2P, as well as in EFT, NLP, Ericksonian hypnosis, and sophrology.

I am accredited by EFT International and a member of a professional association in person-centered therapy.

I do not provide medical diagnoses.

When I use EFT, it is integrated within a broader therapeutic process centered on relationship, emotional safety, and gradual regulation of trauma-related responses.

EFT is one tool among others, used with discernment and progressive pacing.

If you wish know more about my practice and take a first session please visit the page: work with me