Energy psychology is a branch of psychology and psychotherapy that combines traditional psychological approaches with concepts from energy medicine and Eastern practices (like acupuncture, meridians, and chakras). The central idea is that emotional distress and trauma are linked not only to thoughts and memories but also to disruptions or imbalances in the body’s energy systems.
Core Principles
- Mind–body connection: Emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations are deeply interconnected.
- Energy flow: Like in acupuncture, energy psychology assumes the body has meridians or channels of energy that can be blocked or disrupted by trauma and stress.
- Rapid relief: Techniques often aim to quickly reduce the intensity of emotional distress compared to traditional talk therapy alone.
Common Techniques
- Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT): “Tapping” on acupressure points while focusing on a problem or emotion.
- Thought Field Therapy (TFT): A structured sequence of tapping on energy meridian points.
- Tapas Acupressure Technique (TAT): Light pressure on specific points near the eyes and head combined with mental focus.
- Eye Movement methods: Similar to EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), combining bilateral stimulation with energy awareness.
Applications
- Trauma and PTSD
- Phobias and fear
- Stress and anxiety
- Depression
- Addictions and compulsive behavior
- Performance enhancement (sports, public speaking, creativity)
Evidence & Criticism
- Evidence: Research (particularly on EFT and TFT) suggests these techniques can reduce symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and stress, sometimes rapidly. Organizations like the American Psychological Association have noted promising results, but caution that more large-scale, rigorous studies are needed.
- Criticism: Skeptics argue the “energy” model lacks solid grounding in Western medical science, and benefits may be due to exposure, mindfulness, and placebo effects rather than energy shifts.
In practice, many therapists use energy psychology as an adjunct to traditional therapy, especially for trauma and emotional regulation.
Shervan K Shahhian
LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION 