Energy Psychology combines conventional psychological therapies with Eastern energy medicine techniques.
The most widely used method of Energy Psychology is Emotional Freedom Technique; Energy Psychology is used to help overcome negative emotions, habits and behaviours.
Energy Psychology utilises cognitive operations such as imaginal exposure to traumatic memories or visualization of optimal performance scenarios, combined with physical interventions derived from acupuncture, yoga, and related systems, to induce psychological change. For example, this can be done by the stimulation or “tapping” of acupuncture points without the use of needles.
EP has been applied in emergency and post-disaster settings, with evidence that it is an effective tool for rapidly reducing hyper-arousal, managing stress, and assisting in affect-related disorders. It also integrates well into other psychological approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
By working with an Energy Psychology practitioner, the blend of Eastern energy medicine and modern psychology may facilitate positive change and optimise therapy outcomes.
How Does Energy Psychology Work?
A review of the major Energy Psychology texts shows four tiers of EP interventions:
- providing immediate relief/stabilization;
- extinguishing conditioned responses;
- overcoming complex psychological problems;
- and promoting optimal functioning.
The current scientific evidence, combined with extensive clinical reports, suggests that Energy Psychology holds promise as a treatment for a range of psychological conditions.
Although the evidence is still preliminary, EP has reached the minimum threshold for being designated as an evidence-based treatment, with one form of EP having met the APA (American Psychological Association) criteria as a “probably efficacious treatment” for specific phobias; and another for maintaining weight loss.
Demonstrating how to “tap on” or stimulate acupoints that reduce arousal provides a straightforward tool for emotional self-management that is quick, effective, and generally as safe as other relaxation techniques.
Because tapping acupoints, when properly introduced and applied, is relatively non-invasive, even if it does not produce the desired effects, no harm is done by the physical procedure as such.
If you have specific health problems you should consult your doctor to rule out other health issues prior to making an appointment with a psychologist. Your doctor will do a thorough history, examination and appropriate testing before providing a referral to a mental health practitioner.
After correct diagnosis by a psychologist or psychiatrist, treatment can be tailored to your needs. Interventions are based on best available evidence integrated with individual client characteristics, culture and preferences.
Author: Mia Olsson, BA Psych (Hons), Dip Nurs, AMAPS.
Registered Psychologist Mia Olsson has had a broad interdisciplinary role in the health industry for over thirty years, including hospital-based nurse training, and an Honours Degree majoring in Psychology. She enjoys assisting clients with depressive disorders, anxiety, acute and chronic complex trauma, and health related issues.
To make an appointment with Psychologist Mia Olsson, try Online Booking – Loganholme or call M1 Psychology (Loganholme) on (07) 3067 9129.
References:
- Church, D. (2013). Clinical EFT as an Evidence-Based Practice for the Treatment of Psychological and Physiological Conditions. Psychology, 4, 645-654. doi: 10.4236/psych.2013.48092
- Feinstein, D. (2012). Acupoint stimulation in treating psychological disorders: Evidence of efficacy. Review of General
- http://www.energypsych.org/?AboutEPv2
- http://www.energypsych.org/?EnrichPracticeWithEP
- http://www.theenergytherapycentre.co.uk/energy-psychology-london.htm
The information on this topic page is NOT a substitute for proper diagnosis, treatment or the provision of advice by an appropriate health professional.
