What is Thought Field Therapy?
Thought Field Therapy (TFT) is a therapeutic approach that combines elements of cognitive psychology, traditional Chinese medicine, and acupressure. It was developed by Dr. Roger Callahan in the 1980s. TFT is based on the concept that negative emotions and psychological problems are caused by disturbances in the body’s energy system.
According to TFT, specific psychological problems are associated with specific “thought fields” or energy meridians in the body. These thought fields can be accessed and manipulated through a series of tapping or rubbing techniques on specific acupressure points on the body. By tapping on these points in a particular sequence, it is believed that the disruptions in the body’s energy system can be corrected, leading to the alleviation of emotional distress and psychological problems.
TFT is often used to address issues such as anxiety, phobias, trauma, addictive cravings, and emotional disturbances. It involves identifying the specific problem or negative emotion, assessing the intensity of the emotion on a subjective scale, and then applying the appropriate tapping sequence on specific acupressure points. The tapping is usually accompanied by verbal affirmations or repetitions of specific phrases related to the issue being addressed.
Critics of TFT argue that its effectiveness is largely based on the placebo effect and that the underlying theories and mechanisms are not supported by scientific evidence. While there have been some studies suggesting positive outcomes for TFT, the overall body of research is limited, and more rigorous scientific investigations are needed to validate its claims. It is worth noting that variations of TFT, such as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), have gained more recognition and have been the subject of additional research.
If you are considering using Thought Field Therapy or any other therapeutic approach, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional who can guide you through the process and provide appropriate support.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 