KNOXVILLE — Tapping, formally known as Emotional Freedom Technique, is a type of therapy that claims to reduce problems such as stress, anxiety and food cravings.
The technique dates back to the 1990s when Gary Craig, a self-help coach, introduced it in a book.
Recently, the trend has gained popularity and buzz online. The therapy involves tapping various acupuncture points on the body using fingertips rather than needles.
The patient repeats a phrase meant to address a problem, and shift thought in a more positive and accepting direction.
“When people see it, it’s very confusing to them like what, that’s crazy, what are they doing?" said Terry Jeanne, a licensed acupuncturist with University of Tennessee's Internal Medicine and Integrative Health group. "But when you experience the shift yourself, that’s a whole other thing.”
Jeanne says her appointment book remains full and scheduled far in advance. She says tapping works for most of her clients.
"In five minutes we could decrease your discernable fear. The really skilled part is the wording," she said.
Another local therapist, Lucinda Black, specializes in tapping among other forms of therapy at New Life Counseling. She also claims the therapy works for most of her clients.
"It's usually something people go to after they've tried everything else," she said. “Tapping engages your thoughts and your body and so it targets various things, whatever’s going on. The first and most important thing to do is to identify an affirmative statement, something that you want to have."
Debate exists in the medical community as to if, how and why tapping works, but both Black and Jeanne claim to have had great success with the method. Despite their success, both also admit the technique does not work for everyone.