PTSD & Trauma Support Research

The Science of Tapping for PTSD Support

Published research on EFT for emotional wellness. The Tapping Solution App provides general wellness support for stress and emotional health.

d = 2.96 Effect Size
VA Funded Research
APA Criteria Met
90%+ No Longer Meet PTSD Criteria
Information

About This Research

This page presents published research on EFT Tapping for educational purposes. The Tapping Solution App is designed for general wellness, stress management, and emotional support. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent PTSD, trauma disorders, or any medical condition. If you have been diagnosed with PTSD or any mental health condition, please work with your healthcare provider. This app should not replace professional medical or mental health treatment. Tapping can bring up difficult emotions—consider working with a trained professional when addressing trauma.

Veterans Affairs Funded Research

The VA has funded multiple studies on EFT for veterans with PTSD, recognizing its potential as a treatment option.

The Strongest Evidence in the Field

PTSD is where EFT research began—and where the evidence is most compelling. From combat veterans to trauma survivors, the data consistently shows exceptional outcomes.

d = 2.96 Effect Size for PTSD Sebastian & Nelms (2017), Systematic Review

Why This Matters

An effect size of d = 2.96 is extraordinarily large—nearly 4x the average effect of psychotherapy. While this comes from a specific study population, it indicates EFT's particular strength for trauma.

APA Division 12 Recognition

EFT meets the American Psychological Association's Division 12 criteria for an "efficacious treatment" for PTSD—the same standard applied to CBT and EMDR.

Veterans Study Highlight

The Landmark Veterans Trial

Church et al. (2013) studied veterans with clinical PTSD. The results changed how many view EFT.

90% No Longer Met PTSD Criteria
6 Sessions Required
Maintained at 6-Month Follow-Up

Published Research

2017

Systematic Review

Sebastian & Nelms reviewed all EFT PTSD studies, finding consistent large effects across populations.

2013

Veterans RCT

Church et al. showed 90%+ of veterans no longer met PTSD criteria after 6 EFT sessions.

2019

First Responders

Significant PTSD reduction in police, firefighters, and EMTs following EFT intervention.

2021

Sexual Trauma Survivors

RCT showing substantial PTSD symptom reduction in survivors of sexual assault.

Why Tapping Works for Trauma

Memory reconsolidation icon

Memory Reconsolidation

Rewrites the emotional charge of trauma

Amygdala calming icon

Amygdala Calming

Reduces hypervigilance and reactivity

Vagus nerve icon

Vagal Activation

Restores sense of safety

Learn more about how Tapping works →

Veteran Stories

"After 3 tours in Iraq, I couldn't sleep without nightmares. Couldn't be in crowds. Couldn't feel anything good. Six weeks of Tapping gave me my life back. It's been 4 years and I'm still good."

— Army Veteran, Iraq

"I was skeptical—spent 10 years trying everything from meds to prolonged exposure. My VA therapist suggested we try EFT. It worked faster than anything else I'd tried."

— Marine Corps Veteran

Important Notice: The Tapping Solution App is intended for general wellness purposes, including stress management and emotional wellness support. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. If you have been diagnosed with a medical or mental health condition, please consult with your healthcare provider. This app is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.