The Science: Why PTSD Keeps the Past Present
In normal memory processing, an experience moves from the amygdala (emotional brain) to the hippocampus, where it's tagged with context: "This happened, it's over now." In PTSD, this consolidation process gets stuck. The traumatic memory remains in an unprocessed, fragmented state, still coded as "happening now." That's why a trigger doesn't just remind you of the event—it activates the same terror, the same physical responses, as if you're back there.
Brain imaging studies show that during PTSD flashbacks, Broca's area (the speech center) goes offline while the amygdala lights up intensely. This is why trauma can be so hard to "talk through"—the experience is stored in sensory and emotional brain areas, not narrative ones. It's literally trapped in the body.
Tapping appears to work by allowing access to the traumatic memory while simultaneously sending calming signals to the amygdala through the acupressure points. This combination—memory activation plus nervous system calming—creates the conditions for the brain to finally process and file the memory as "past." Research shows that EFT can reduce PTSD symptoms by an average of 47%, with 86% of participants in some studies no longer meeting PTSD diagnostic criteria after treatment. The VA has recognized EFT as "generally safe" and effective for veterans.
Research-backed: EFT has significant research support for PTSD treatment. Studies with veterans have shown dramatic reductions in PTSD symptoms, with many participants no longer meeting diagnostic criteria after treatment. The VA has approved EFT as a "generally safe" therapy for veterans.
Real Results
Lisa's Car Accident Recovery
"Tapping has helped me overcome anxiety and PTSD after a car accident. I had been having CBT for a year now. I no longer have CBT as using Tapping was and has been more than enough to overcome all my anxiety issues and helped me get through PTSD."
Lisa's accident left her with classic PTSD symptoms—flashbacks, avoidance, hypervigilance around driving. After a year of CBT with limited progress, Tapping finally gave her the breakthrough she needed. She's now training to become a practitioner herself.
Sandra's Multiple Traumas
"Tapping got me through. When my therapist introduced me to Tapping, I thought—what is this? Just Tapping on my head is gonna help? But it did. I had layers of trauma—childhood, relationships, recent events. Tapping helped me process each one."
Sandra's story illustrates that PTSD often involves multiple traumatic events, layered over years. Tapping allows you to address each layer systematically. The process isn't instant, but each memory processed reduces the overall load.
Doug's Peer Support Work
"At the beginning, she could not use the words 'I accept myself.' After several months of weekly sessions, she had the courage to say 'I deeply and completely love and accept myself.' I almost cried. The trauma had convinced her she was unlovable."
Doug works with trauma survivors and has seen how PTSD attacks self-worth at its core. The work is gradual—meeting people where they are, using words they can actually say. The shift from "I'm OK" to self-love marks profound healing.
Working With PTSD Safely
Consider professional support: While many people use Tapping independently, severe PTSD often benefits from guidance by a trained practitioner who can help regulate the process.
Go slowly: You don't need to dive into the worst memory first. Start with less intense memories or with just the symptoms (anxiety, sleep issues) without addressing specific events.
Titration: This means approaching trauma in small doses. Think of the memory from a distance, tap, then get a little closer. Never force yourself to fully relive it.
Begin Your Healing Journey
These gentle sessions help process difficult experiences safely.