Working Agreement for EFT [Emotional
Freedom Technique] Sessions
F:F (in Person) / Online
Thank you for considering working with me. This contract/working agreement describes how we can work together. Please do read it through, so that I can answer any questions at the beginning of the process.
About me:
I am a counsellor registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). I work within the BACP’s ‘Ethical Framework for Counsellors’, and the ‘BACP Guidelines for Online Counselling and Psychotherapy’. Information relating to both documents, including what to do if you are unhappy with your counsellor, can be found at: www.bacp.co.uk
I work in private practice as an integrative therapist, which means I blend various different modalities, or theories to suit your needs best. I offer counselling, psychotherapy and EFT tapping sessions which can be face-to-face and/or online. I also offer EFT sessions as a standalone option, as well as a tool which is part of my working in an integrative way and my standard Working Agreement. The description below was created by Chat GPT.
I have experience of working with clients across ages ranging from age 18 upwards. I have the fullest commitment to offering an impartial service which is welcoming to all backgrounds, with a commitment to avoiding harm and promoting the wellbeing of clients.
EFT Tapping: An Introduction and Its Benefits
Understanding the Practice and Its Applications
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), commonly known as EFT Tapping or simply "tapping," is a self-help therapeutic tool that blends elements of cognitive therapy and exposure therapy with acupressure. This integrative approach draws upon ancient Chinese medicine and modern psychology to address emotional and physical distress. Over recent decades, EFT Tapping has garnered attention as a gentle, non-invasive method that individuals can use for themselves or with a practitioner to manage stress, anxiety, and a wide array of other concerns.
What is EFT Tapping?
EFT Tapping is a process that involves tapping with the fingertips on specific meridian points located on the body, mainly on the face and upper body, while focusing on a particular issue. These meridian points, also known as acupoints, are the same points targeted in acupuncture and acupressure. However, instead of using needles or sustained pressure, EFT employs a series of gentle taps.
The process is typically structured in a sequence. While tapping on these acupoints, the individual states aloud (or silently) a setup phrase that acknowledges the problem and affirms self-acceptance, such as, "Even though I feel anxious about this presentation, I deeply and completely accept myself." The practitioner or individual then taps through the sequence of points, repeating reminders of the issue at each point.
The core EFT tapping sequence usually involves the following acupoints:
· Side of the hand (also called the "karate chop" point)
· Eyebrow
· Side of the eye
· Under the eye
· Under the nose
· Chin
· Collarbone
· Under the arm
· Top of the head
This sequence may vary depending on the practitioner and the specific protocol being followed.
How Does EFT Tapping Work?
The theoretical basis of EFT Tapping is rooted in the concept of the body’s energy system, a framework borrowed from Chinese medicine. According to this philosophy, energy flows through the body along meridians. When this flow is disrupted or blocked, it can manifest as emotional distress or physical discomfort. By tapping on acupoints while focusing on troubling thoughts or feelings, EFT is believed to help restore balance to the body’s energy system, leading to reduced distress and improved wellbeing.
From a psychological perspective, EFT incorporates elements of exposure therapy and cognitive reframing. By bringing attention to distressing thoughts or memories and pairing them with a calming, physical action, the brain may begin to associate these triggers with a state of calm rather than stress. Some research suggests that tapping may also downregulate the amygdala, the brain’s fight-or-flight center, resulting in a more relaxed response to previously triggering stimuli.
What Can EFT Tapping Help With?
Numerous anecdotal reports and a growing body of research suggest that EFT Tapping can be beneficial for a diverse range of psychological and physical issues. Below are some common areas in which EFT Tapping may provide support:
1. Stress and Anxiety
One of the most popular uses of EFT Tapping is for managing stress and anxiety. By focusing on specific worries while tapping, individuals often experience a reduction in nervous tension and a heightened sense of calm. Some clinical studies have documented significant declines in cortisol (the stress hormone) after tapping sessions.
2. Trauma and PTSD
EFT has been used as an adjunct therapy for people experiencing trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Because it gently exposes individuals to distressing memories without overwhelming them and incorporates physical self-soothing, it can help reduce the emotional charge associated with traumatic memories. Several studies and clinical trials have shown promising results for military veterans and survivors of abuse using EFT.
3. Depression
Individuals experiencing symptoms of depression may use EFT as a complementary approach. By addressing negative self-talk, self-limiting beliefs, and painful memories, tapping can help to shift mood and promote a more positive outlook.
4. Phobias and Fears
EFT is often employed to help individuals overcome irrational fears and phobias. Whether the fear is of public speaking, flying, heights, or animals, working through the associated emotions while tapping can lead to significant reductions in fear responses.
5. Pain Management
Some people use EFT Tapping to address chronic pain and physical symptoms. By acknowledging the emotional aspects of pain and tapping on related feelings (such as frustration, anger, or hopelessness), individuals sometimes experience a decrease in pain perception. While the scientific understanding of this process is still evolving, many users report improvements in symptoms such as headaches, back pain, or fibromyalgia.
6. Addictions and Cravings
EFT Tapping can also be applied to cravings for substances such as food, cigarettes, or alcohol. By tapping through the urge and underlying emotional triggers, individuals may gain greater control over impulsive behaviors and develop healthier coping strategies.
7. Performance Anxiety and Self-Confidence
Many performers, athletes, and students turn to EFT to overcome stage fright, test anxiety, or fear of failure. By acknowledging performance-related stress and affirming self-acceptance, EFT can help build confidence and mental resilience.
8. Insomnia and Sleep Difficulties
Chronic sleep issues often stem from racing thoughts, anxiety, or unresolved emotional stress. EFT Tapping, used before bedtime, can help calm the mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
9. Relationship Issues
EFT can be valuable for addressing interpersonal conflicts, feelings of rejection or abandonment, and self-sabotaging patterns in relationships. By working through these emotions, individuals can improve communication and deepen connections with others.
10. General Emotional Wellbeing
Beyond addressing specific problems, many people use EFT Tapping as a daily practice for emotional hygiene. Regular tapping sessions can foster a sense of balance, clarity, and peace, supporting overall mental health.
The Evidence Base: What Does the Research Say?
While EFT Tapping continues to gain popularity, the scientific community is still exploring its mechanisms and efficacy. Some studies, including randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, have found positive results for conditions such as anxiety, PTSD, and depression. The American Psychological Association recognizes that while more research is needed, EFT shows promise as an evidence-based approach for certain issues.
It is important to note that EFT is considered a complementary technique rather than a replacement for medical or psychological treatment. Individuals with serious mental health or medical conditions should consult with qualified professionals before making changes to their care.
How to Practice EFT Tapping
EFT is accessible and easy to learn. Many people start by following online videos, apps, or books, while others choose to work with certified EFT practitioners for personalized guidance. A typical EFT session involves:
· Identifying the issue to work on (e.g., "I feel anxious about an upcoming exam")
· Rating the intensity of the emotion or symptom on a scale from 0 to 10
· Creating a setup statement that acknowledges the problem and supports self-acceptance
· Tapping through the sequence of acupoints while repeating reminder phrases
· Reassessing the emotional or physical intensity after each round and repeating as needed
Potential Limitations and Considerations
While EFT Tapping is generally safe, it may not be effective for everyone. Some individuals may require professional support, especially when working through deep-seated trauma or complex psychological conditions. As with any self-help approach, it is important to proceed with self-compassion and to seek appropriate help when needed.
Conclusion
EFT Tapping offers a simple yet powerful way to address a wide range of emotional and physical challenges. Whether used as a self-help technique or with the support of a practitioner, it can promote relaxation, reduce distress, and foster emotional balance. With ongoing research and a growing community of practitioners, EFT continues to evolve as a valuable tool for personal growth and healing. As with all therapeutic approaches, results will vary, and it is wise to approach the practice with an open mind and a willingness to explore what works best for your unique needs.
Confidentiality Policy
1. Please see separate document.
2. If sessions are being paid for by a third party, confidentiality is maintained strictly between the therapist and client and content of sessions will not be disclosed to the third party. However, the attendance of sessions may need to be relayed to the third party, to ensure they are aware of what they are paying for. Having a third party paying ongoing for sessions where they are cancelled late, or not attended, would not be ethical.
Data Privacy Policy
1. Please see separate document.
Cancellations / No Shows / Missed sessions
1. Cancellations within a week of the booked session incur the full cost of the session.
2. If the session is not attended, this incurs the full cost of the session.
Fees & Payment for Sessions (including EFT)
1. The initial assessment session requires talking through a working agreement, confidentiality and data privacy documents, as well as taking some basic information eg name, address, contact details etc. This is to ensure I am working professionally and ethically, in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework. This session will last for 50 mins and costs £60.
2. For subsequent sessions, whether EFT is part of working integratively, or as a separate EFT session, sessions last for 50 mins and cost £60.
3. I accept payment preferably by bank transfer or BACS, which should be paid 24 hours in advance of the session for both F:F and online sessions.
4. I accept payment by cash for face-to-face sessions on the day if we have agreed this in advance. For cash payments, you understand that payment is due at the beginning of the session.
Session Appointments: Face-to-Face
This sets out what is expected from the therapeutic relationship for our sessions that are held face-to-face.
1. Consultations/sessions are strictly by appointment only.
2. If you arrive late, the session will still end at the scheduled time.
3. For therapeutic reasons I reserve the right not to continue with a session if you are under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs. However, you will still be responsible for paying for the session.
4. My therapy room is a non-smoking area (including e-cigarettes).
5. I do not have a waiting area, therefore I would ask that you arrive at the time of the appointment, not earlier. If you do arrive early, I may need to ask you to return at the correct time. This is also to protect the privacy of other clients as well as yourself.
6. You understand that I do not have toilet facilities available for public use. The nearest public toilets are at Bedgrove Park (1 mile, approx. 3 mins drive away), or Aylesbury Town Centre (2.5 miles, approx. 10 mins drive away), or Wendover Car Park (5 miles, approx. 12 mins drive away).
7. You understand that I have a small, well-behaved, quiet, hypoallergenic therapy companion dog, who is likely to sit ..or sleep in the sessions with us.
Session Appointments: Online
This sets out what is expected from the therapeutic relationship for our sessions that are held online.
1. It is important for you to find a safe, confidential space to have your therapy session, somewhere that you cannot be overheard or interrupted by other people.
2. It is important that you are alone in the room with no children or other people.
3. I respectfully ask that you are fully dressed for the session and not in bed for the online sessions.
4. For therapeutic reasons I reserve the right not to continue with a session if you are under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs. However, you will still be responsible for paying for the session.
5. Online sessions are strictly by appointment only.
6. The format that I use for online sessions is Zoom, as this is one of the most encrypted formats.
7. Online sessions are organised for an agreed date and time.
8. If you are late attending the session, I will stay online for 15 minutes to allow for any eventualities. The session will still end at the original scheduled time. If you do not make contact within this time, the session will be considered missed and will be cancelled, however payment will still be due.
9. If there are technical issues, we will discuss this eventuality and come to another arrangement or reschedule the date.
Contacting Me / Emergency Contact Information
1. I do not provide a 24-hour emergency service for clients.
2. My normal available working hours are Mon 17:00 – 21:00, Tues & Wed 09:00 - 21:00 and Thu 09:00 – 17:00.
3. If you need to talk to me to book or reschedule an appointment, I cannot guarantee that I will be available to talk immediately. However, I will do my best to respond to you promptly and within 24 hours (of my available working hours).
4. If you need to cancel or re-arrange an appointment outside of my normal available hours, please text me, leave a voice-message on my mobile, or send an email and I will respond to you as soon as I can, within my available working hours.
5. In the event of an emergency arising during the period that we are engaged in working together or if you were experiencing thoughts about ending your life or serious self-harm, please see the Crisis Support page on my website: Crisis Support — Chrisalis Counselling
Covid-19 – when required by government guidelines, for face to face sessions
Access to my therapy room in my conservatory is via a side gate entrance, which leads directly to the room.
Hand sanitizer and temperature checks will be offered / checked on entry to the therapy room.
Seating will be 2 meters apart.
An air purifier with HEPA filter is used and the room ventilated between clients for at least 30 mins.
Hard and soft furnishings will have been sprayed with antiviral disinfectant spray between clients.
I will take a lateral flow test regularly / weekly if required by government guidelines.
If you have symptoms of Covid-19, or have been in contact with someone who has the virus and need to isolate, please let me know as soon as possible, and please do not attend F:F sessions.
For cancellation of F:F sessions owing to Covid-19, online sessions will be offered during the time you are required to isolate or recover. Payment for online sessions is required 24 hours in advance of the session.
If I have symptoms of Covid-19 or have been in contact with someone who has the virus, I will let you know as soon as possible and postpone / rearrange the session to another date, or offer online sessions, if I am well enough.
If lockdown restrictions are reinstated, I will offer online sessions instead of F:F sessions for the duration of the required period, under government guidelines.
Vacation
1. I take approximately 7 weeks’ vacation each year for rest, self-care and to attend CPD (Continuous Professional Development) training. During these times I will not be available.
2. I will aim to provide you with as much advance notice as possible of these dates.
About my professional boundaries
1. As my client, I will always treat you professionally and with respect. In return, I also expect to be treated with the same respect. Abusive, violent, or manipulative behaviour is not acceptable at any time and will result in immediate termination of therapy.
2. As your therapist, it is important that we maintain professional boundaries. I will not offer or be able to accept invitations for friendship or sexual relationships, and I will not be able to accept expensive gifts or “tips”.
3. I ask that you respect my privacy at all times, that you agree to attend sessions on the time and day of our appointments and by not making any unsolicited visits outside of these times.
This agreement shall be construed and governed in all respects in accordance with the laws of England and Wales and any dispute or differences in relation to this agreement shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English Courts.
Thank you for taking the time to read through this contract / working agreement. I hope it gives you a clear understanding of what to expect from our sessions and our working together. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Please sign (electronically if needed via email) and date here, or send an email, to confirm that you have read this document and agree to working in accordance with this agreement, in order for us to proceed with therapy.
Client Name (or Client ID if preferred):
Signature: Date:
Counsellor Name: Chrissy Peel
Signature: Date: