Tapping on acupoints has its origins in Traditional Chinese Medicine frameworks. For thousands of years acupuncture (the gentle stimulation of acupoints with needles) has been one component used to support returning the body to a state of balance and wellbeing. The underpinning concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine is that acupoints are connected by pathways or meridians that create an energy flow (known as Qi) through the body that is responsible for overall health. Within this framework, it is believed that blockages in Qi can be associated with imbalances in health. The stimulation of acupoints is thought to improve the flow of Qi, thereby improving health and wellbeing.

Over the past 50 years or so, there have been advances in investigating the stress reduction effects of tapping on acupoints. From this exploration, there have been a range of acupoint-tapping approaches that have emerged – Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is one.

There are many EFT approaches that can be readily accessed on social media platforms, often combining a similar tapping sequence of acupoints with a series of positive affirmations relating to a range of commonly experienced challenges. Whilst these online resources may look like clinical EFT, there are some key differences.

• Clinical EFT protocols have been researched and evaluated in over 100 outcome studies, using the scientific method and adhering to the same clinical protocols. This means there is a growing body of scientific data that supports the effectiveness of using these techniques for a range of presenting issues.

• Clinical EFT is generally delivered by trained practitioners.

• Clinical EFT begins with a focus on a negative experience and the associated distress it causes, to support in safely working with the nervous system response and reducing the overall intensity of emotion or stress. Once supported to release any stuck stress responses using this method, the individual can be supported to connect with their own inner wisdom that then guides any secondary positive reframes in their thinking or ‘next steps’.

• Clinical EFT’s signature is working in very specific and measurable ways that are unique to an individual’s situation, allowing progress to be easily tracked and reviewed.

• It is this very specific, challenge-focused entry point to the tapping that is associated with the clinically significant results seen when working with a range of presenting issues.

As such, whilst it is possible to introduce clinical EFT protocol on pre-recorded online materials, actual training or personal work requires a tailored, interactive approach with a trained practitioner.

In addition to being a registered clinical psychologist, Erin is also a certified Clinical EFT practitioner through the Evidence Based EFT (EBEFT) peak training body. Many existing licensed health professionals may want to seek clinical EFT skills training only. However, in addition to EBEFT Practitioner training workshops, certified Clinical EFT Practitioners have completed further training regarding the application of clinical EFT to support individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress responses. Certified Clinical EFT Practitioners have also engaged in extensive EFT case work with clients under mentorship. They have also engaged in their own clinical EFT ‘self-work’ including having individual sessions with another certified clinical EFT practitioner. Certified clinical EFT practitioners have agreed to and signed a Code of Conduct and have demonstrated evidence of holding practitioner insurance. To maintain their listing on the online Clinical EFT Practitioner Register, certified clinical EFT practitioners also must engage in ongoing continuing education every year.

This level of training, mentoring, professional commitment and ongoing education aims to support certified clinical EFT practitioners in offering a high-quality service to their clients.

Yes, Erin offers clinical EFT sessions through online consultations.

Both certified clinical EFT practitioners and clinical psychologists can offer effective stress-reduction approaches that then also support individuals in building emotional awareness, emotional regulation, relational connection, supporting the re-working of thinking patterns and behavioural responses.

However, a clinical EFT practitioner has not been trained to assess or diagnose underlying mental health problems. Clinical psychologists are trained in assessing, understanding (or formulating) and diagnosing mental illnesses and psychological problems that individuals may present with. Using a range of techniques and therapies, clinical psychologists tailor programs with an individual to treat complex mental health problems.

As Erin is both a clinical psychologist and a certified clinical EFT practitioner, she is trained and experienced in offering the full spectrum of care from assessment, diagnosis, treatment of mental health challenges, whilst also supporting individuals in their broader personal growth and development journeys.

If clinical EFT protocols are incorporated and implemented within a broader clinical psychology treatment plan, then clinical psychology Medicare or private health rebates may be available for eligible individuals for these sessions.

Erin can provide clinical psychology services and clinical EFT services to clients under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) if they are ‘self-managed’ or ‘plan-managed’. This means that full fees are paid by the client or plan-manager and then receipts submitted by the client or plan manager themselves to NDIS for reimbursement.

Unfortunately, Erin is not able to see clients under the NDIS who are NDIA-managed.