Abstract: Gifted students can encounter anxiety-provoking stressors throughout their day. Developing effective anxiety management skills allows them to better navigate these challenges. Concepts from neuroscience help us better understand responses to anxiety and can assist gifted youth and those working with them in recognizing how and when to best apply anxiety management strategies. This article reviews these concepts and integrating them into the classroom environment to assist with this learning process. In addition, it examines an evidenced-based anxiety management intervention that has been found to be efficacious for gifted youth, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). Results of recent EFT research are reviewed and the steps to learning EFT are outlined

Abstract: Anxiety and depression are highly prevalent disorders that result in human suffering. The consequences to the individual include increased health care utilization, disability, and decreased income; depression, at its current prevalence, impacts global economic output as well. Access Bars, a noninvasive energy therapy technique, was evaluated for its effects on anxiety and depression using both subjective self-report and objective brain-scanning measures.
Methods: Participants, N = 7, aged 25–68, were assessed as having mild to severe anxiety and/or depression. The assessment methods were standardized self-report measures: Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory–II (BDI II), State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and the Maryland State and Trait Depression (MTSD) scale. Electroencephalogram (EEG) data were acquired for objective analysis of brain function via QEEG and sLORETA. Evaluations were performed prior to one 90-minute Access Bars session and immediately following the session. All participants tested positive for trait anxiety on pretest.
Results: Lower scores were reported in all self-report measures post session. BAI mean scores dropped from 23.3 to 3.6 (–84.7%), p = 0.004. BDI II mean scores were reduced from 22.3 to 3.9 (–82.7%), p = 0.02. STAI-S (State) means dropped from 38.9 to 25.9 (–33.5%), p = 0.027. MTSD-S (State) means were reduced from 23.6 to 4.7 (–80%), p = 0.015. Brain maps derived from QEEG results showed notable changes in frequency bands from 6 Hz (theta) to 21 Hz (beta). These frequency bands in pretest results showed extreme values of –3 to –1 standard deviations (SD) below the norm and changed toward normal in posttest results. QEEG FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) Z Score coherence paired t-tests demonstrated an improvement in QEEG coherence, p < 0.05.
Conclusion: Treatment with Access Bars was associated with a significant decrease in the severity of symptoms of anxiety and depression and an increase in EEG coherence. These results suggest that Access Bars may be useful as a treatment for anxiety and depression

Abstract: Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) combines elements of exposure and cognitive therapies with acupressure for the treatment of psychological distress. Randomized controlled trials retrieved by literature search were assessed for quality using the criteria developed by the APA’s Division 12 Task Force on Empirically Validated Treatments. As of December 2015, 14 studies (n=658) met inclusion criteria. Results were analyzed using an inverse variance weighted meta-analysis. The pre-post effect size for the EFT treatment group was 1.23 (95% CI: 0.82-1.64, p < 0.001), while the effect size for combined controls was 0.41 (0.17-0.67, p=0.001). EFT treatment demonstrated a significant decrease in anxiety scores, even when accounting for the effect size of control treatment. However, there was too little data available comparing EFT to standard of care treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, and further research is needed to establish the relative efficacy of EFT to established protocols.

Abstract: Stress and anxiety have been identified as significant issues experienced by student nurses during their education. In fact, some studies have suggested that the stress experienced by nursing students is greater than that experienced by medical students, other non-nursing healthcare students, degreed nurses, and the female population in general. Recently there has been interest in the role of energy therapies in reducing anxiety and stress. A recently introduced energy type therapy is Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). EFT combines the tapping of meridian points with a focus on the feared object or negative emotion to provide desensitization to the fear. In addition, there is repetition of a statement of self-acceptance, suggested to contribute to cognitive restructuring. EFT is currently receiving much attention in the treatment of compulsive behavior, phobias, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The purpose of this study was to determine the efficacy of EFT in decreasing anxiety and stress in a convenience sample of nursing students enrolled in an associate degree nursing program. Utilizing a one group pretest-posttest design, participants received group instruction in the technique and were encouraged to repeat it daily. Data collection instruments included a demographic questionnaire, pretest State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). STAI and PSS were re-administered at the second, third and the fourth week. A qualitative questionnaire was also administered at the end of the 4 weeks. The qualitative data provided participant feedback rich in expression of improved feelings of calm, relaxation, and diminished agitation and tension. Notably some participants also identified a decrease in negative somatic symptoms as well as an improved ability to fall asleep. Most participants also described that the technique provided them with a feeling of control over stress and anxiety, another tool for stress management and coping. For PSS data the reduction in self-reported stress was profound with a mean difference baseline to week 4 of 5.677 (p<.005). PSS data supported claims in the literature that the stress experienced by nursing students is greater than that reported by the female population in general. For STAI state data, reduction in anxiety when comparing baseline to week 4 was also profound with a mean difference of 13.033 (p<.005). Similar to PSS and STAI state results, the reduction in STAI trait scores baseline compared to week 4 was also considerable with a mean difference of 7.533 (p<.05). This result is surprising and differs with expectations and results in the literature, since trait anxiety is expected to be more stable over time. Findings suggested that EFT can be an effective tool for stress management and anxiety relief in nursing students. The ease and convenience of the technique further enhanced by its immediate impact are valued benefits. Utilization of effective stress management techniques may improve retention of nursing students. Improved academic and professional retention is critical in nursing and in healthcare. The benefit of effective coping techniques are expected to carry over as nursing students move to practice, increasing resilience, successful health maintenance and professional longevity.

Abstract: A randomized controlled trial of veterans with clinical levels of PTSD symptoms found significant improvements after Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). Although pain, depression, and anxiety were not the primary targets of treatment, significant improvements in these conditions were noted. Subjects (N = 59) received six sessions of EFT coaching supplementary to primary care. They were assessed using the SA-45, which measures nine mental health symptom domains and also has two general scales measuring the breadth and depth of psychological distress. Anxiety and depression both reduced significantly, as did the breadth and depth of psychological symptoms. Pain decreased significantly during the intervention period (−41%, p < .0001). Subjects were followed up at three and six months, revealing significant relationships between PTSD, depression, and anxiety at several assessment points. At follow-up, pain remained significantly lower than at pretest. The results of this study are consistent with other reports showing that, as PTSD symptoms are reduced, general mental health improves, and pain levels drop. The ability of EFT to produce reliable and long-term gains after relatively brief interventions indicates its utility in reducing the estimated trillion-dollar cost of treating veteran mental health disorders in the coming years.

Abstract: Anxiety can cause many concerns for those affected, and previous research on anxiety and gifted students has been inconclusive. This study examined the anxiety levels of gifted students, as well as the effectiveness of two interventions: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). Using the Revised Children’s Manifest Anxiety Scale-2 (RCMAS-2) to measure students’ anxiety levels, Phase I of this study examined anxiety in gifted youth (n = 153) participating in private and public gifted education programs, grades 6 -12, in two Northeastern states. ANOVAs were used to assess differences in the anxiety levels, and results indicated that gender (F [1, 149] = 13.52, p < .001, 􀀀2 = .08) and school setting (F [2, 149] = 21.41, p < .001, 􀀀2 = .23) were significant factors in the anxiety levels of the gifted students in this study. In Phase II, a randomized controlled research design was used to investigate the effectiveness of CBT and EFT interventions for gifted adolescents. Utilizing permuted randomized assignment, participants (n = 63) identified with moderate to high levels of anxiety on the pre treatment RCMAS-2 were assigned to one of three treatment groups: a) CBT, the current gold standard of anxiety treatment, b) EFT, an innovative modality presently showing increased efficacy in anxiety treatment, and c) a wait-listed control group. Students assigned to CBT or EFT treatment groups received three individual sessions of the identified therapy from upper-level counseling, psychology, or social work students enrolled in graduate programs at a large Northeastern research university. Treatment outcomes were measured by administration of the RCMAS-2 post treatment and analyzed using ANCOVA with pre treatment RCMAS-2 scores serving as the covariate. Using a Bonferroni correction of p = .016, EFT participants (n = 20, M = 52.163, SE = 1.42) showed significant reduction in anxiety levels when compared to the control group (n = 21, M = 57.93, SE = 1.39, p = .005). CBT participants (n = 21, M = 54.82, SE = 1.38) did not differ significantly from either the EFT or control groups (p = .12 and p = .18, respectively).

Abstract: Objectives: Previous research has shown Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to be effective in reducing presentation anxiety in student populations. Generalizability is a critical issue in research, and this study compared whether EFT is as effective in a cohort of younger, predominantly male students undertaking a sports science degree as in a cohort of all female, predominantly older complementary therapy students undertaking a foundation degree in complementary therapy. Method: Two convenience samples of students were used. A cohort of students undertaking a foundation degree in complementary therapy (also known as CAM or Complementary and Alternative Medicine) and a cohort of students undertaking a sports science degree were informed of the research and invited to give their informed consent. Those who agreed were given a 15-min assignment workshop outlining the requirements for their assessed presentation by their module leads (authors Carryer and Boath). Results: Table 1 shows the sociodemographic details of each student cohort. There was a significant difference in gender and age between the two cohorts of students. Men were predominant in the sports science degree group, whereas the complementary therapy group were all women. Complementary therapy students were also significantly older. Discussion: This study demonstrates that EFT is effective in reducing presentation anxiety in cohorts of students regardless of age or gender. The findings are remarkably similar to previous research (Boath et al., 2012a, 2012b, 2013). Conclusions: The results demonstrate a statistically significant reduction in anxiety level for both cohorts of students, as well as a clinically significant reduction in anxiety for the sports science students.

Abstract: This study examined whether self-intervention with Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), a brief exposure therapy that combines a cognitive and a somatic element, had an effect on healthcare workers’ psychological distress symptoms. Participants were 216 attendees at 5 professional conferences. Psychological distress, as measured by the SA-45, and self-rated pain, emotional distress, and craving were assessed before and after 2-hours of self-applied EFT, utilizing a within-subjects design. A 90-day follow-up was completed by 53% of the sample with 61% reporting using EFT subsequent to the workshop. Significant improvements were found on all distress subscales and ratings of pain, emotional distress, and cravings at posttest (all p<.001). Gains were maintained at follow-up for most SA-45 scales. The severity of psychological symptoms was reduced (-45%, p<.001) as well as the breadth (-40%, p<.001), with significant gains maintained at follow-up. Greater subsequent EFT use correlated with a greater decrease in symptom severity at follow-up (p<.034, r=.199), but not in breadth of symptoms (p<.0117, r=.148). EFT provided an immediate effect on psychological distress, pain, and cravings that was replicated across multiple conferences and healthcare provider samples.

Abstract: Protocols to treat veterans with brief courses of therapy are required, in light of the large numbers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with depression, anxiety, PTSD and other psychological problems. This observational study examined the effects of six sessions of EFT on seven veterans, using a within-subjects, time-series, repeated measures design. Participants were assessed using a well-validated instrument, the SA-45, which has general scales measuring the depth and severity of psychological symptoms. It also contains subscales for anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behavior, phobic anxiety, hostility, interpersonal sensitivity, paranoia, psychosis, and somatization. Participants were assessed before and after treatment, and again after 90 days. Interventions were done by two different practitioners using a standardized form of EFT to address traumatic combat memories. Symptom severity decreased significantly by 40% (p<.001), anxiety decreased 46% (p<.001), depression 49% (p<.001), and PTSD 50% (p<.016). These gains were maintained at the 90-day follow-up.

Abstract: The effectiveness of the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), a treatment for anxiety and fear, was assessed. One hundred nineteen university students were assigned and tested in an independent four-group design. The groups differed in the treatment each received: applied treatment of EFT (Group EFT); a placebo treatment (Group P); a modeling treatment (Group M); and a control (Group C). Participants' self-reported baseline and post-treatment ratings of fear were measured. Group EFT showed a significant decrease in self-report measures at post-treatment. However, Group P and Group M showed a similar significant decrease. Group C did not show a significant decrease in post-treatment fear ratings. These results do not support the idea that the purported benefits of EFT are uniquely dependent on the "tapping of meridians." Rather, these results suggest that the reported effectiveness of EFT is attributable to characteristics it shares with more traditional therapies.

Abstract:
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of EFT on panic.
Methods: Three patients with panic disorders were treated with oriental medical treatments which involved acupuncture, herbal medications, moxibustion and emotional freedom techniques. Participants were diagnosed with panic disorder using, the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV), and assessed with the Panic Disorder Severity Scale (PDSS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) upon admission and discharge.
Results: After treatment, both physical and psychological symptoms decreased.
Conclusions: This study suggested that EFT is an effective method for treating patients with panic disorders.

Abstract:
EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) has been the subject of much research over the past decade, with many studies of conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression showing significant treatment effects. In addition to elements drawn from established cognitive and exposure therapies, EFT uses the manual stimulation of acupuncture points (acupressure) through fingertip tapping. This study investigated the utility of EFT to address professional burnout in a population of school teachers. Participants were K–12 full time, public school teachers. They were assessed usingthe Maslach Burnout Inventory, which has three scales: Emotional Exhaustion, Depersonalization, and Personal Accomplishment. EFT was compared to a control condition that used sham tapping on a location on the forearm that does not include any acupuncture points. To reduce the possibility of cross-contamination between the two conditions, the study did not randomize participants within a single population. Instead, to minimize contact between experimental and control participants, the two samples were drawn from different school districts with similar demographic profiles in the same county. One hundred teachers were randomly selected from each district, of which 126 completed all assessments. Data analysis revealed that on all three indicators of burnout measured, EFT was significantly superior to the sham tapping control (p > .05). The results are consistent with earlier dismantling studies and indicate that acupoint tapping is an active ingredient in the therapeutic results obtained from EFT and not a placebo. EFT is inexpensive, easy to administer, and could be added to teacher mentor and retention programs to improve resiliency. A positive impact on teachers whose level of burnout is either negatively affecting the educational environment or has caused them to consider leaving the profession will help nurture and retain valuable assets for student learning.

Abstract: Untreated pain during the transportation of patients after minor trauma is a common problem in emergency medicine. Because paramedics usually are not allowed to perform invasive procedures or to give drugs for pain treatment, a noninvasive, nondrug based method would be helpful. Acupressure is a traditional Chinese treatment for pain that is based on pain relief followed by a short mechanical stimulation of specific points. Consequently, we tested the hypothesis that effective pain therapy is possible by paramedics who are trained in acupressure. In a doubleblinded trial we included 60 trauma patients. We randomly assigned them into three groups (“true points,” “sham-points,” and “no acupressure”). An independent observer, blinded to the treatment assignment, recorded vital variables and visual scales for pain and anxiety before and after treatment. At the end of transport, we asked for ratings of overall satisfaction. For statistical evaluation, one-way analysis of variance and the Scheffe´ F test were used. P_0.05 was considered statistically significant. Morphometric and demographic data and potential confounding factors such as age, sex, pain, anxiety, blood pressure, and heart rate before treatment did not differ among the groups. At the end of transport we found significantly less pain, anxiety, and heart rate and a greater satisfaction in the “true points” groups (P < 0.01). Our results show that acupressure is an effective and simple-to-learn treatment of pain in emergency trauma care and leads to an improvement of the quality of care in emergency transport. We suggest that this technique is easy to learn and risk-free and may improve paramedic-based rescue systems.

Abstract: Addressing the internal determinants of dysfunctional eating behaviours (e.g., food cravings) in the prevention and treatment of obesity has been increasingly recognised. This study compared Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for food cravings in adults who were overweight or obese (N = 83) in an 8-week intervention. Outcome data was collected pre- and post-intervention, and at six and 12-months follow-up. Food cravings significantly decreased for both groups; however, only the EFT group retained significant reductions at the six and 12-month points. Power over food significantly improved for both groups and was maintained. An immediate reduction on restraint was observed for CBT, and a delayed effect was observed for EFT. Delayed effects in both groups (6-months) were also observed for BMI, whereby significant weight loss was reported. However, this effect was only maintained by the CBT group at 12- months follow-up. Food craving and power of food scores were comparable to a community sample by post-intervention and were maintained. Dietary restraint was equivalent to the community sample by 12-month follow-up. However, BMI remained significantly higher than community sample for both groups across all time points. The current study supports the suggestion psychological interventions are beneficial for food cravings and provides preliminary evidence that EFT may be equally effective as CBT in treating food cravings.

Abstract: In Australia and throughout much of the world rates of obesity continue to climb as does the prevalence of eating disorders, particularly in adolescents. Psychological consequences of childhood obesity include low self-esteem, depression, body dissatisfaction, and social maladjustment. This feasibility study sought to examine the impact of a six-week EFT group treatment program upon eating behaviours, selfesteem, compassion, and psychological symptoms. Forty-four students were randomly allocated to either the EFT group or the waitlist control group. Results revealed a delayed effect for both groups at post-intervention, with improved eating habits, self-esteem and compassion at follow-up. Findings provide preliminary support for EFT as an effective treatment strategy for increasing healthy eating behaviours and improving associated weight-related psychopathology.

Abstract: Ninety-six overweight or obese adults were randomly allocated to a four-week EFT treatment or waitlist condition. Waitlist participants crossed over to the EFT group upon completion of wait period. Degree of food craving, perceived power of food, restraint capabilities and psychological symptoms were assessed at pre-, post- and 12-month follow-up for combined EFT groups. Significant improvements in weight, body mass index, food cravings, subjective power of food, craving restraint and psychological coping for EFT participants from pre- to 12-months (p<0.05) were reported. The current paper isolates the depression symptom levels of participants, as well as levels of eight other psychological conditions. Significant decreases from pre- to post-treatment were found for Depression, Interpersonal Sensitivity, Obsessive-Compulsivity, Paranoid Ideation, and Somatisation (p<0.05). Significant decreases from pre- to 12-months follow-up were found for Depression, Interpersonal Sensitivity, Psychoticism, and Hostility. The results point to the role depression and other mental health conditions may play in the successful maintenance of weight loss.

Abstract:

The objective of this study was to examine food diaries from 89 female overweight and obese adults participating in a treatment trial for food cravings. For two weeks prior to beginning treatment and for the duration of the four-week treatment, all participants were required to complete a daily food monitoring sheet or diary in real-time, indicating all quantities of food/drink eaten throughout a day and whether the item was a craving item for them. The diaries were examined for narrative statements and categorized with regard to common content, resulting in seven themes (Physiological; Enjoyment/Celebration; Missing Out; Reward; Wastage; Emotive and External Environment). Participants also completed a battery of self-report questionnaires relating to food cravings, eating behaviour and psychological symptoms. Results indicated that the most common themes recorded included Wastage, Emotive and Reward and the most frequent number of cravings recorded per day ranged from one to three.

Abstract: This randomized, single-blind, crossover trial tested whether participants who used Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) maintained reduced food cravings after 12-months and updates previously reported 6-month findings. Ninety-six overweight/obese adults were allocated to a 4-week EFT treatment or waitlist condition. Degree of food craving, perceived power of food, restraint capabilities, and psychological symptoms were assessed pre- and posttest and at 12-month follow-up for collapsed groups. Significant improvements occurred in weight, body mass index, food cravings, subjective power of food, craving restraint, and psychological coping for EFT participants from pretest to 12 months (p < .05). It appears EFT can result in participants maintaining reduced cravings over time and affect weight and BMI in overweight and obese individuals.

Abstract: Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) has been shown to have a lasting effect on food cravings, power over food and restraint ability, and ultimately results in weight loss. This paper discusses the approach utilised in a recent food craving clinical treatment trial (Stapleton, Sheldon, & Porter, 2012; Stapleton, Sheldon, Porter, & Whitty, 2011), and highlights the case of a single participant. Sessions are described in detail and specific recommendations are made for the application of EFT to food cravings in overweight and obese individuals.

Abstract: This randomised, clinical trial tested whether The Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) reduced food cravings. This study involved 96 overweight or obese adults who were allocated to the EFT treatment or 4-week waitlist condition. Degree of food craving, perceived power of food, restraint capabilities and psychological symptoms were assessed pre- and post- a 4-week treatment program (mixed method ANOVA comparative analysis), and at 6-month follow-up (repeated measure ANOVA with group data collapsed). EFT was associated with a significantly greater improvement in food cravings, the subjective power of food and craving restraint than waitlist from pre- to immediately post-test (p < .05). Across collapsed groups, an improvement in food cravings and the subjective power of food after active EFT treatment was maintained at 6 months, and a delayed effect was seen for craving restraint. Although there was a significant reduction in measures of psychological distress immediately after treatment (p < .05), there was no between-group difference. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that EFT can have an immediate effect on reducing food cravings and can result in maintaining reduced cravings over time.

Abstract: Energy psychology utilizes imaginal and narrative-generated exposure, paired with interventions that reduce hyperarousal through acupressure and related techniques. According to practitioners, this leads to treatment outcomes that are more rapid, powerful, and precise than the strategies used in other exposure-based treatments such as relaxation or diaphragmatic breathing. The method has been exceedingly controversial. It relies on unfamiliar procedures adapted from non-Western cultures, posits unverified mechanisms of action, and early claims of unusual speed and therapeutic power ran far ahead of initial empirical support. This paper reviews a hierarchy of evidence regarding the efficacy of energy psychology, from anecdotal reports to randomized clinical trials. Although the evidence is still preliminary, energy psychology has reached the minimum threshold for being designated as an evidencebased treatment, with one form having met the APA Division 12 criteria as a “probably efficacious treatment” for specific phobias; another for maintaining weight loss. The limited scientific evidence, combined with extensive clinical reports, suggests that energy psychology holds promise as a rapid and potent treatment for a range of psychological conditions.

Abstract: Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) as a new therapeutic technique in energy psychology has positive effects on psychological and physiological symptoms, and quality of life. In this research we studied the effect of this treatment on immunological factors. This study tested whether 8-week group sessions of EFT (compared to a wait-list control group) with emphasis on patient's respiratory, psychological and immunological problems in chemically pulmonary injured veterans (N=28) can affect on immunological and psychological factors. Mixed effect linear models indicated that EFT improved mental health (F=79.24, p=0) and health-related quality of life (F=13.89, p=0.001), decreased somatic symptoms (F=5.81, p=0.02), anxiety/insomnia (F=24.03, p<0.001), social dysfunction (F=21.59, p<0.001), frequency and severity of respiratory symptoms (F=20.38, p<0.001), and increased lymphocyte proliferation with nonspecific mitogens Concanavalin A (Con A) (F=14.32, p=0.001) and Phytohemagglutinin (PHA) (F=12.35, p=0.002), and peripheral blood IL-17 (F=9.11, p=0.006). This study provides an initial indication that EFT may be a new   approach for improving psychological and immunological factors.

Abstract: Adverse effects associated with tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitor use are the most common reason reported by women with breast cancer for discontinuing hormonal therapies. Poor compliance is associated with an increased risk of mortality and early recurrence. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) for improving mood state, and secondarily, menopausal symptoms, fatigue, and pain experienced by women with breast cancer receiving hormonal therapies. Methods: Participants (n = 41) received a three-week course of EFT, consisting of one session of three hours per week, followed by use of the self-tool over the next nine weeks as required. Self-report questionnaires were used to assess mood, pain, fatigue, endocrine (menopausal) symptoms and hot flushes and night sweats, together with a hot flush diary, at baseline and at 6 and 12 weeks. Participants also completed 7-day home practice sheets for the first six weeks, a feedback form at six weeks and were invited to attend a follow-up focus group at eight weeks. Results: Statistically significant improvements in Total Mood Disturbance (p = 0.005; p = 0.008), and anxiety (p = 0.003; p = 0.028), depression (p = 0.006; p = 0.020) and fatigue (p = 0.008; p = 0.033) occurred at both 6 and 12 weeks, respectively, compared to baseline. In addition, mean fatigue interference and global scores, numbers of hot flushes and the hot flush problem rating score decreased at 6 and/or 12 weeks. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that EFT may be an effective selfhelp tool for women with breast cancer experiencing side effects from hormonal therapies.

Abstract The documented relationship between stress and psoriasis suggests that noninvasive means of stress reduction may improve quality of life in persons with psoriasis. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to (a) educate persons with psoriasis in the use of the innovative, self-applied, noninvasive emotional healing intervention Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and (b) test its effects on psoriasis symptoms. Method: A time series, within-subjects, repeated measures design was used. Persons with psoriasis (n = 12) were taught EFT in a 6-hr workshop and instructed to use EFT daily. Symptoms were measured using the Skindex-29 questionnaire. Psychological conditions were assessed using the Symptom Assessment-45 (SA-45), which has 9 subscales, and two general scales for the severity (GSI) and breadth (PST) of psychological distress. Participants were assessed pre-intervention, post intervention, and at 1 and 3 month follow-ups. Psychological symptom severity (GSI) improved post-workshop, demonstrating both clinical (raw score) and statistical significance (-56.43%, p=.043). Improvements (T score) (-50.67%, p=.002) were sustained at three 3-month follow-up (-50.54%, p=.001; -38.43%; p=.002). Symptom breadth (PST) also improved post-workshop clinically (-49.24%, p=.005), and that improvement was sustained over time (-46.93%, p=.019). Skindex-29 scores indicated improvements in emotional distress (-41.56%, p=.002), symptoms (-49.05%; p=.001), and functioning (-58.31%; p=.001) post-workshop, with changes over time to -80.56% (p=<.001), -74.95% (p=<.001), and -89.99% (p=.001) respectively, and at 3 months. Differences by gender were found in psychological symptom severity and skin-related symptom distress. Conclusion: Participants experienced significant improvement in functioning and psychological, emotional, and physical symptoms.

Abstract: Neurotherapy, including brainwave biofeedback, has been found to be an effective treatment for seizure disorders. A principal component of this treatment is an increase in the amplitude of the Sensory Motor Rhythm (SMR) over the sensory motor cortex in the brain. Electroencephalographic (QEEG) assessment of brainwave activity indicated that Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) increased SMR amplitude. The present article reviews the research on the effects of components of the EFT procedure on brainwave functioning that have been found to be beneficial in the treatment of seizure disorders.

Abstract: Numerous treatment modalities for decompensated tinnitus incorporate psychological principles. Procedures of energy psychology and thought field therapy are introduced in two case studies. Data were collected from psychotherapy sessions and psychological tests. Two case studies demonstrated that thought field therapy reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety in decompensated tinnitus patients. The methods of thought field therapy can be taught to non-mental health professionals. Audiologists and psychotherapists should collaborate to develop more efficacious treatments.

Abstract:

Abstract:

The need for empirical, objective, clear, and practical outcome measures for therapy has long been recognized by clinicians and researchers. Pragmatic tools for objective determination of the efficacy of therapy have been scarce in clinical practice settings. Heart rate variability (HRV) is increasing in popularity for use in clinical settings as a measure of treatment success. Since HRV is stable and placebo‐free, it has the potential to meet this need. Thirty‐nine cases are presented from the clinical practices of the authors and three other clinicians where HRV was used as an outcome measure for Thought Field Therapy (TFT). The cases included TFT treatments which addressed a wide variety of problems including phobias, anxiety, trauma, depression, fatigue, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, learning difficulties, compulsions, obsessions, eating disorders, anger, and physical pain. A lowering of subjective units of distress was in most cases related to an improvement in HRV.

Abstract:
Objective: To evaluate the short-term effects of the emotional freedom technique (EFT) on tension-type headache (TTH) sufferers.
Design: We used a parallel-group design, with participants randomly assigned to the emotional freedom intervention (n = 19) or a control arm (standard care n = 16).
Setting: The study was conducted at the outpatient Headache Clinic at the Korgialenio Benakio Hospital of Athens
Participants: Thirty-five patients meeting criteria for frequent TTH according to International Headache Society guidelines were enrolled.
Intervention: Participants were instructed to use the EFT method twice a day for two months.
Outcome Measures: Study measures included the Perceived Stress Scale, the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale, and the Short-Form questionnaire-36. Salivary cortisol levels and the frequency and intensity of headache episodes were also assessed.
Results: Within the treatment arm, perceived stress, scores for all Short-Form questionnaire-36 subscales, and the frequency and intensity of the headache episodes were all significantly reduced. No differences in cortisol levels were found in any group before and after the intervention.
Conclusions: EFT was reported to benefit patients with TTH. This randomized controlled trial shows promising results for not only the frequency and severity of headaches but also other lifestyle parameters.

Abstract: Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a form of chronic neuropathic pain that responds poorly to treatment interventions derived from the neuroanatomic understanding of pain and analgesia. Several new psychological and behavioral treatments that have proven more effective have been explained by invoking neural plasticity as their mechanism of action. Other novel treatments that are based on an "energy medicine" model also appear to be quite effective, especially when addressing the psychological trauma of the amputation itself, a factor that is generally overlooked in the standard surgical approach to limb amputation. A speculative trauma/energy model for the etiology of PLP is proposed. This model is developed in some detail, and its utility in explaining several anomalous aspects of PLP, as well as the clinical efficacy of energy therapies, is outlined. This model is proposed as a step in the development of simple and effective energy/trauma treatment protocols for this widespread and largely treatment-resistant disorder.

Abstract:
Purpose: To determine whether a single session of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) could reduce the emotional impact of traumatic memories related to sports performance and lead to increased confidence levels in athletes. Background: A relationship has been noted in other studies between sports performance and psychological factors such as confidence and anxiety levels. Critical incidents, which are experienced as traumatic memories, are associated with increased levels of psychological distress across a variety of symptom domains. Brief EFT sessions have been demonstrated to improve sports performance and reduce anxiety.
Methods: Female college athletes (N = 10) with traumatic memories were assessed on three self-reports and one objective measure (pulse rate). Subjective measures were the State Sport Confidence Inventory, Subjective Units of Distress (SUD), and the Critical Sport Incident Recall (CSIR) questionnaire, which measured both emotional and physical forms of distress. Subjects received a single 20-min EFT session. Baseline values were obtained, as well as pre-, post-, and 60-day follow-ups.
Results: Significant post-intervention improvements were found in SUD, for both emotional and physical components of CSIR, and for performance confidence levels (p = .001). The change in pulse rate was marginally significant (p = .087). All participant gains were maintained on follow-up.
Conclusions: EFT may increase sport confidence levels by reducing the emotional and physical distress associated with the recall of critical incidents. Applications in Sport: A brief application of EFT employed immediately prior to competition may increase confidence and mediate anxiety.

Abstract: This study involved the use of a short session of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) with two English ladies soccer teams. It is a randomized controlled trial with a supporting uncontrolled trial. It was designed to verify the results of an earlier similar American trial involving basketball players. The results show a significant improvement in goal scoring ability from a dead ball situation following a short EFT session. These results support those of the earlier trial.

Abstract: This study explored whether a meridian-based intervention termed the Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) could reduce Type I ‘yips’ symptoms. EFT was applied to a single figure handicap golfer in an attempt to overcome the performance decrements the player had suffered. The participant underwent four 2-hr sessions of EFT. The EFT involved the stimulation of various acupuncture points on the body. The appropriate acupuncture points were tapped while the participant was tuned into the perceived psychological causes (significant life event) associated with his ‘yips’ experience. Dependent variables included: visual inspection of the ‘yips’, putting success rate and motion analysis data. Improvements in ‘yips’ symptoms occurred across all dependent measures. Social validation data also illustrated that these improvements transferred to the competitive situation on the golf course. It is possible that significant life events may be a causal factor in the ‘yips’ experience and that EFT may be an effective treatment for the ‘yips’ condition.

Abstract: Church (2009) studied basketball free-throw performance of college varsity athletes, comparing (a) a brief treatment of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) with (b) an encouraging talk. A re-examination of Church’s data supported his conclusion that the EFT treatment led to relatively better performance compared with the control group. In addition, we found (a) the reported improvement within the EFT condition was not significant, whereas the control condition decrement was significant and robust; (b) the positive effect of EFT thus took the form of an avoidance of the strong performance decrement seen in the control group; and (c) men and women contributed about equally to these findings. To avoid an apparent ceiling effect, future researchers should use a more difficult free-throw task. Because this apparent ceiling effect may have caused the distribution of scores to deviate from normality, we confirmed the above reported findings from parametric analyses using nonparametric tests.

Abstract: The present study investigates the effect of a psychophysiological intervention, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), on athletic performance. It evaluates whether a single EFT treatment can produce an improvement in high- performance men’s and women’s PAC-10 college basketball team members (n = 26). The treatment group received a 15 minute EFT session while a performance-matched attention control group received a placebo intervention of similar duration. Performance was measured on free throws and vertical jump height. The time frame of data collection and treatment simulated an actual basketball game. A statistically significant difference between the two groups was found for free throws (p<.03). On post-test, players who received the EFT intervention improved an average of 20.8%, while the attention control group decreased an average of 16.6%. There was no difference between treatment groups in jump height. When performance was analyzed separately by gender, trends toward significance were found for the women’s team on both performance measures with better results for the EFT intervention group. This indicates that EFT performed as an intervention during the course of an athletic event may improve free throw performance.

Abstract:
Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine the effects of Emotion FreedomTechniques (EFT) group treatment program for Hwa-byung (suppressed anger) patients.
Methods: Thirteen Hwa-byung patients participated in a four week program of EFT group treatment. One-hour sessions were administered weekly. Between sessions, participants self-administered EFT in order to control their symptoms. Four weeks after the program ended, we interviewed the participants using a semi-structured interview. Data collected was summarized using qualitative analysis.
Results: The EFT group treatment program produced positive effects in physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms. Most of the participants experienced relief from Hwabyung symptoms like chest tightness, hot flashes, and insomnia. Their ability to cope with stress improved and their re-experiencing of past memories decreased. Their distorted self-images were improved. A decrease in negative emotions and an increase in positive emotions was noted. Participants were able control their symptoms between sessions with EFT. In addition, the group therapy format helped participants to develop social support.
Conclusions: An EFT group treatment program can relieve the physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms of Hwa-byung. This program can be applied in psychotherapeutic treatment of Hwa-byung.

Abstract:

Meridian-tapping (MT) is a body-oriented therapeutic technique which among other psychological problems targets anxiety disorders. Despite bold claims by some of its advocates that it brings lasting success in the vast majority of patients with anxiety disorders, solid empirical evidence for its effectiveness is scarce and its theoretical foundations are refuted by many scientists. The present study tested the effectiveness of a published MT self-help approach for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Following a baseline assessment over the internet including standard outcome measures for OCD (Y-BOCS, OCI-R) and depression (BDI-SF), 70 participants with OCD were randomly allocated to MT or to progressive muscle relaxation (PMR). Four weeks after the dispatch of the self-help manuals (including video demonstrations of the technique), participants were requested to take part in a post assessment. Whereas subjects found MT more helpful than PMR in retrospect (39% versus 19%) and would continue to use it in the future (72% versus 48%) there was no evidence for a stronger decline of OCD symptoms under MT on any of the psychometric measures. Moreover, Y-BOCS scores did not significantly change across time for both interventions. The present study does not support bold claims about the effectiveness of MT as a stand-alone technique. Cognitive-behavioral therapy remains the treatment of choice for OCD. While self-help MT may enhance the well-being of a subgroup of participants, its potential for OCD appears to be small. Exaggerated success claims on the effectiveness of MT in conjunction with degrading appraisals of conventional psychotherapy as made by some of its leading figures may in our view foster fatalism in patients not experiencing major symptom relief by MT.

• Implications for Rehabilitation

• Rehabilitation professionals should incorporate suitable psychological interventions (e.g., EFT) to improve coping and acceptance in physical chronic disease patients and alleviate their fears about the future.

• Rehabilitation professionals are also recommended to address in chronic disease patients, long-standing or unresolved emotional issues, including past traumas from early life, using EFT or another suitable intervention.

• Rehabilitation professionals should help improve patients’ emotional states using EFT to enhance physical symptom management.

Abstract: