What are the advantages of online EFT sessions?

As an Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) practitioner, I find that online sessions are just as effective as face to face sessions - if not more so. Working via the Internet seems to intensify attention between client and practitioner. 

Face to face sessions with a therapist are, of course, of great value. However, the stressful challenges that can arise when travelling to and from the therapy location (e.g. traffic delays and parking restrictions) can be a drain on energy before the session has even started.

Therefore, I usually find online sessions can, indeed, enhance both the client and practitioner's quality of energy from the very start, making for a rewarding and effective experience. After the session, you can immediately relax and reflect upon the session without having to interrupt your focus as you journey home.

Before the session

It can be helpful to have information on how to tap and the tapping points. This can be reassuring, leaving you free to dedicate complete attention to the session itself without stressing about whether you will remember where to tap and what to do after the session is over. You could ask your therapist to email these to you.

The EFT practitioner will likely be using a trustworthy, secure Internet platform to conduct the session. They will need to ascertain that you have (or can download) the software and will be able to use it with reasonable ease. 

They will ensure the connection between the both of you has been arranged at least the day before the session, to allow for any unexpected glitches. For instance, with Skype, they have invited you to connect or, with Zoom, the link for the session has been sent.

They may also send you an appointment reminder the day before with details of the session and online link (if required). This prevents possible delay of last-minute searching for connection information. It’s also useful to confirm payment arrangements and details, cancellation notice and the duration of the session.

Preparing for the session

To ensure the session runs smoothly, it’s good for you and the therapist to take the following steps:

• Address any anticipated disturbances beforehand e.g. placing a “Do not disturb” sign on the outside of the door and the duration of unavailability.
• Ensure mobile devices and alerts are switched off (once you have both successfully connected).
• Ensure both parties have water, tissues, pen, paper and earphones.
• Check that devices are well charged or there is direct access to a charger.

How does an online EFT session work?

The actual online sessions are straightforward. The difference between face-to-face sessions and an online session is that, of course, there is no physical contact between the therapist and client, so even greater attention to verbal cues, physical appearance, facial expressions and body language is required by the therapist. 

It can be helpful for you to know where the tapping points are on the body, but it’s not essential - as you mirror the practitioner's tapping along with verbal cues.

Self-care practices during and after the session

It’s important to check that both client and practitioner feel safe and comfortable within their surroundings and can say anything without being overheard or interrupted. The use of earphones can be helpful to enhance privacy.

You also need to be aware of the procedure in the unlikely event of a break in internet connection. It is generally encouraged that you keep tapping on the points if you are experiencing any strong emotional or physical feelings and to do so until you feel OK or until the practitioner can reconnect again or via text or telephone.

It’s important to remember that after a session you can feel tired and, if possible, you should rest and drink plenty of water as the body readjusts to the shifts made during the session.

Time spent in nature is also beneficial and helps to energise and align you with your natural rhythms.

Daily tapping between sessions is encouraged, along with any additional practices established during the session to reinforce the progress made. 

You will be encouraged to contact the practitioner with any questions you may have. Your practitioner can also arrange to check-in within a week after the session to see how you’re getting on.