Chichester based alternative therapy using EFT

What is Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)?

EFT, or ‘tapping’ as it is known, is a process of tapping specific points on the head and hands to move blockages and energy through the body. A bit like acupuncture without the needles, each part of the body relates to different emotions. Blockages are caused by unresolved trauma, our core beliefs and by toxins.

How did you come to EFT?

I started my professional career as a sculptor but I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety when I was 21 and prescribed antidepressants and counselling. Thirteen years and 12 counsellors later anxiety still ruled my life. I didn’t think antidepressants were a long-term solution, but I was interested in alternative therapies. I tried lots of things, most of which helped, but it wasn’t until I discovered EFT that my life completely changed. In six months I went from being too scared to have a conversation at the school gates to becoming a school governor.

When did you start training to practise EFT?

I started in 2010, training with EFT Master Karl Dawson. EFT is about changing the picture in a really gentle way. Any kind of trauma is isolating and tapping helps to bring your soul back. All sorts of things can cause us to become anxious. Fear of failure, pressure of time, fear of public speaking and also pressure caused by social media – something that makes us all feel a bit exposed. But our anxiety is nearly always related to something that goes much further back. The root is often hidden because the memory is not one we want to remember, but early life experiences impact on our present. Because EFT is a talking therapy there is a lot of overlap but tapping techniques can be really transformative.

Can anyone use EFT?

Absolutely! I am currently putting together an exam bundle for young people to help them with exam stress, but anyone can use it and it’s easy to do pretty much anywhere. There are short routines to help you when you feel anxiety building and specific points to aim for if you feel stress in a particular place; the top of the head, for instance, before studying.

Are we more open to alternative therapies like EFT than we have been in the past?

The NHS is great and if you break your leg you’re not going to sit in a corner and hum, but for mental health I think there is increasing interest in alternative therapies. I do I think we are more enlightened about holistic treatments these days.

How can people access your services?

I offer EFT by download sessions, tutorials, by remote appointment and in person in Chichester and London. I am also giving a talk on EFT Thursday, June 25 at 1.30pm at the Chichester Festival of Learning. For more information: www.stressfreelifeacademy.com