Understanding Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT)

Emotional Freedom Therapy, commonly known as EFT or tapping therapy, combines gentle acupressure with psychological techniques. Our network of EFT practitioners is growing, and we can help you explore this and related approaches.

Start your search

Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT) is a mind-body technique that involves tapping on specific meridian points while focusing on particular thoughts, feelings, or memories. Developed in the 1990s, EFT draws from traditional Chinese medicine concepts and cognitive therapy principles. During sessions, practitioners guide clients through sequences of tapping on points around the face, hands, and upper body while addressing emotional concerns. Many people find EFT helpful for managing stress, anxiety, phobias, and difficult memories.

EFT may appeal to those seeking a structured, body-based approach to emotional wellness. The technique is often used alongside other therapeutic methods and can be learned for self-application between sessions. While research into EFT continues to develop, many individuals report finding it a valuable addition to their mental health toolkit. If you're curious about somatic or body-oriented approaches, you might also consider exploring related modalities such as EMDR, somatic experiencing, or mindfulness-based therapies, which share similar principles of connecting mind and body in the healing process.

We're still growing in this area.
We don't have therapists specializing in this focus area yet, but we're always adding new providers. Try using our search page to explore more modalities and find online therapists who may be a great fit.
Search all therapists
We add therapists weekly. Sign up to receive updates.
No results found. Your criteria may be too specific.
Search finds the closest match while filters exclude profiles that do not match your criteria. Try clearing your filters and using search to find a match.
We add therapists weekly. Sign up to receive updates.
Browse All Therapists
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
No items found.
A man and woman sitting at a table looking at a phone

Therapy is hard work.

Finding the right therapist shouldn’t be. Over 10,000 Canadians found their new therapist with First Session.
About First Session
What is Emotional Freedom Therapy (EFT)?

Emotional Freedom Therapy, often called EFT or tapping, is a therapeutic technique that combines elements of cognitive therapy with acupressure. During EFT sessions, you tap on specific points on your body—typically on the face, hands, and upper body—while focusing on a particular issue or emotion. The approach is based on the idea that tapping these meridian points while processing difficult thoughts or feelings may help reduce emotional distress. EFT is typically practiced with a trained practitioner, though many people also learn self-tapping techniques to use between sessions.

What are the potential benefits of EFT?

People who practice EFT often report experiencing a greater sense of calm and emotional balance. The technique may support those dealing with stress, anxiety, or overwhelming emotions by providing a structured way to process difficult feelings. Some individuals find EFT helpful for addressing phobias, managing cravings, or working through past experiences. The physical aspect of tapping can also serve as a grounding technique, helping people feel more present and connected to their bodies during moments of distress.

Who might benefit from Emotional Freedom Therapy?

EFT may appeal to individuals who are drawn to body-based or somatic approaches to mental wellness. It can be particularly interesting for those who want to take an active, hands-on role in their therapeutic process. People dealing with stress, anxiety, phobias, or difficult memories sometimes find EFT helpful. The technique is also popular among those who appreciate having tools they can practice independently between therapy sessions. EFT is generally considered gentle and non-invasive, making it accessible to many people.

How do I find an EFT therapist in Canada?

Finding a qualified EFT practitioner involves looking for therapists who have received specific training in this technique. When searching, you might ask about a practitioner's EFT certification and experience. First Session's network of EFT practitioners is growing, and you can browse therapist profiles to learn about their training and approach. Many therapists offer free consultations, which provide an opportunity to ask about their experience with EFT and determine if their style feels like a good fit for you.

Are there approaches related to EFT I should consider?

If you're interested in EFT, you might also explore other body-oriented or somatic therapies. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) shares some similarities in how it helps process difficult experiences. Somatic Experiencing focuses on releasing tension held in the body. Mindfulness-based therapies incorporate awareness of bodily sensations into the therapeutic process. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) addresses the thought patterns that EFT also works with, though through different methods. Exploring these related modalities may help you find the approach that resonates most with you.

How can First Session help me explore EFT and other therapies?

First Session makes it easier to explore therapeutic options that fit your needs. You can browse therapist profiles to learn about their training, specialties, and approaches—including EFT and related modalities. Many therapists on our platform have credentials verified during onboarding and offer intro videos so you can get a sense of their style before reaching out. Whether you're specifically seeking EFT or want to explore similar body-based approaches, First Session can help you connect with qualified practitioners across Canada who offer online and in-person sessions.