A Promising Mind-Body 4th Wave Approach to Treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Clinical Emotional Freedom Techniques

This chapter presents Clinical Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) as a promising mind-body approach for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Through the compelling cases of Sarah and John, two individuals grappling with PTSD symptoms despite previous therapies, the chapter underscores the need for a more integrative treatment modality. It explores the foundations and principles of Clinical EFT, a technique that combines cognitive strategies with somatic acupressure point stimulation. The growing evidence base supporting EFT’s efficacy is presented, and a detailed, step-by-step guide for clinicians is offered, including how clients can use at home, in and between sessions. Sarah and John’s specific EFT protocol tailored to their cases is outlined, relating to repeated childhood trauma, and a single event military deployment trauma. With its emphasis on rapid symptom reduction, low dropout rates, and comparable efficacy to established therapies, Clinical EFT emerges as a valuable addition to the clinician’s toolkit.