Marlborough House Therapy Centre – Your Trusted Therapy Partner

Emotional Freedom Technique

Outcome studies compare outcomes, e.g. levels of pain, degree of depressive symptoms, either between two groups, or between the same people before and after EFT. The headings below tell you, in alphabetical order, the conditions for which data was gathered in the trials below them. All of these research titles can be found in their original form by clicking ‘here’.

Please click on the title that interests you and you will be taken to the relevant research;

• Psychological Trauma in Veterans using EFT
• The Effect of a brief EFT self-intervention on Anxiety, Depression, Pain and Cravings in Healthcare workers
• Psychological Symptom Change in Veterans After Six Sessions of Emotional freedom Techniques (EFT)
• The Treatment of Combat Trauma in Veterans Using EFT
• The Effects of EFT on Long-term Psychological Symptoms
• Self-administered EFT in Individuals with Fibromyalgia: a Randomised Trial
• Pilot Study of EFT, WHEE and CBT for Treatment of Test Anxiety in University Students
• The Effect of Progressive Muscular Relaxation and Emotional Freedom Techniques on Test Anxiety in High School Students

Psychological Trauma in Veterans using EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques): A Randomised Controlled Trial

Dawson Church, PhD[1] Crystal Hawk, MEd,[2] Audrey Books, PhD,[3] Oliver Toukolehto,[4] Maria Wren, LCSW,[5] Ingrid Dinter,[6] Phyllis Stein, PhD[7]. These data were presented at the Society of Behavioural Medicine, Seattle, Washington, April 7-10, 2010. In peer review.

Abstract

This study examined the effect of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), a brief exposure therapy combining cognitive and somatic elements, on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psychological distress symptoms in military veterans receiving mental health services. Veterans meeting the clinical criteria for PTSD were randomised to EFT (n = 30) or wait-list (n = 29; WL). The EFT intervention consisted of six hour-long EFT coaching sessions concurrent with standard care. PTSD was assessed using the PTSD Checklist-Military (PCL-M). Psychological distress was measured using the Symptom Assessment 45 (SA-45), which has 2 global scales and 9 subscales for conditions such as anxiety and depression. The WL and EFT groups were compared pre- and posttest (at 1 month for the WL group, after 6 sessions for EFT group). EFT participants had significantly less psychological distress on the global and on all but one of subscales on the SA-45 (p < 0.0002) and the PTSD total score (p < 0.0001) at posttest. 90% of the EFT group no longer met PTSD clinical criteria vs. 4% in the WL. Following the wait-period, WL participants received the EFT intervention. In a within-subjects longitudinal analysis, 60% no longer met PTSD clinical criteria after 3 sessions. This increased to 86% after 6 sessions, and remained at 86% on 3-month follow-up. Statistically significant decreases in psychological distress and PTSD total scores were present after 6 sessions (p < 0.0001), and remained stable at follow-up. The results are consistent with other published reports showing EFTs efficacy at treating PTSD and co-morbid symptoms, and its long-term effects.

The Effect of a Brief EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) Self-Intervention on Anxiety, Depression, Pain and Cravings in Healthcare Workers

Dawson Church, PhD 1 & Audrey J. Brooks, PhD 2

1 Foundation for Epigenetic Medicine, Santa Rosa, CA.

2 Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson

Integrative Medicine: A Clinician’s Journal, (2010), Oct/Nov (in press).

Abstract

This study examined whether self-intervention with Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), a brief exposure therapy that combines a cognitive and a somatic element, had an effect on healthcare workers’ psychological distress symptoms. Participants were 216 attendees at 5 professional conferences. Psychological distress, as measured by the SA-45, and self-rated pain, emotional distress, and craving were assessed before and after 2-hours of self-applied EFT, utilising a within-subjects design. A 90-day follow-up was completed by 53% of the sample with 61% reporting using EFT subsequent to the workshop. Significant improvements were found on all distress subscales and ratings of pain, emotional distress, and cravings at posttest (all p < .001). Gains were maintained at follow-up for most SA-45 scales. The severity of psychological symptoms was reduced (-45%, p < .001) as well as the breadth (-40%, p < .001), with significant gains maintained at follow-up. Greater subsequent EFT use correlated with a greater decrease in symptom severity at follow-up (p < .034, r=.199), but not in breadth of symptoms (p < 0117, r=.148). EFT provided an immediate effect on psychological distress, pain, and cravings that was replicated across multiple conferences and healthcare provider samples.

Psychological Symptom Change in Veterans After Six Sessions of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT); An Observational Study

Dawson Church, PhD, Linda Geronilla, PhD, & Ingrid Dinter

International Journal of Healing and Caring, (2009, January), 9(1).

Abstract

Protocols to treat veterans with brief courses of therapy are required, in light of the large numbers returning from Iraq and Afghanistan with depression, anxiety, PTSD and other psychological problems. This observational study examined the effects of six sessions of EFT on seven veterans, using a within-subjects, time-series, repeated measures design. Participants were assessed using a well-validated instrument, the SA-45, which has general scales measuring the depth and severity of psychological symptoms. It also contains subscales for anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive behaviour, phobic anxiety, hostility, interpersonal sensitivity, paranoia, psychosis, and somatisation. Participants were assessed before and after treatment, and again after 90 days. Interventions were done by two different practitioners using a standardised form of EFT to address traumatic combat memories. Symptom severity decreased significantly by 40% (p < .001), anxiety decreased 46% (p < .001), depression 49% (p < .001), and PTSD 50% (p < .016). These gains were maintained at the 90-day follow-up.

The Treatment of Combat Trauma in Veterans Using EFT: A Pilot Protocol

Dawson Church, PhD

Traumatology, (2010), 15(1), 45-55.

Abstract

With a large number of US military service personnel coming back from Iraq and Afghanistan with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and co- morbid psychological conditions, a need exists to find protocols and treatments that are effective in brief treatment timeframes. In this study, a sample of 11 veterans and family members were assessed for PTSD and other conditions. Evaluations were made using the SA-45 (Symptom Assessment 45) and the PCL-M (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist – Military) using a time-series, within-subjects, repeated measures design. A baseline measurement was obtained thirty days prior to treatment, and immediately before treatment. Subjects were then treated with a brief and novel exposure therapy, EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques), for five days. Statistically significant improvements in the SA-45 and PCL-M scores were found at posttest. These gains were maintained at both the 30- and 90-day follow-ups on the general symptom index, positive symptom total and the anxiety, somatisation, phobic anxiety, and interpersonal sensitivity subscales of the SA-45, and on PTSD. The remaining SA-45 scales improved posttest but were not consistently maintained at the 30- and 90-day follow-ups. One-year follow-up data was obtained for 7 of the participants and the same improvements were observed. In summary, after EFT treatment, the group no longer scored positive for PTSD, the severity and breadth of their psychological distress decreased significantly, and most of their gains held over time. This suggests that EFT can be an effective post-deployment intervention.

The effects of EFT on long-term psychological symptoms

Rowe, J. (2005). The effects of EFT on long-term psychological symptoms. Counselling and Clinical Psychology Journal, 2(3):104.

Abstract

Previous research (Salas, 2000; Wells, et al., 2003), theoretical writings (Arenson, 2001, Callahan, 1985, Durlacher, 1994, Flint, 1999, Gallo, 2002, Hover-Kramer, 2002, Lake & Wells, 2003, Lambrou & Pratt, 2000, and Rowe, 2003), and many case reports (www.emofree.com) have suggested that energy psychology is an effective psychotherapy treatment that improves psychological functioning. The purpose of the present study was to measure any changes in psychological functioning that might result from participation in an experiential Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) workshop and to examine the long-term effects. Using a time-series, within-subjects repeated measures design, 102 participants were tested with a short-form of the SCL-90-R (SA-45) 1 month before, at the beginning of the workshop, at the end of the workshop, 1 month after the workshop, and 6 months after the workshop. There was a statistically significant decrease (p < .0005) in all measures of psychological distress as measured by the SA-45 from pre-workshop to post-workshop which held up at the 6 month follow-up.

Self-administered EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) in Individuals with Fibromyalgia: A Randomised Trial

Gunilla Brattberg, MD, School of Medicine, Lund University, Sweden

Integrative Medicine: A Clinician’s Journal, (2008), Aug/Sep, 30-35.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine if self-administered EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) leads to reduced pain perception, increased acceptance, coping ability and health-related quality of life in individuals with fibromyalgia. 86 women, diagnosed with fibromyalgia and on sick leave for at least 3 months, were randomly assigned to a treatment group or a waiting list group. An eight-week EFT treatment program was administered via the Internet.

Upon completion of the program, statistically significant improvements were observed in the intervention group (n=26) in comparison with the waiting list group (n=36) for variables such as pain, anxiety, depression, vitality, social function, mental health, performance problems involving work or other activities due to physical as well as emotional reasons, and stress symptoms. Pain catastrophizing measures, such as rumination, magnification and helplessness, were significantly reduced, and the activity level was significantly increased. The number needed to treat (NNT) regarding recovering from anxiety was 3. NNT for depression was 4.

Self-administered EFT seems to be a good complement to other treatments and rehabilitation programs. The sample size was small and the dropout rate was high. Therefore the surprisingly good results have to be interpreted with caution. However, it would be of interest to further study this simple and easily accessible self-administered treatment method, which can even be taught over the Internet.

Pilot Study of EFT, WHEE and CBT for Treatment of Test Anxiety in University Students

Daniel J. Benor, Karen Ledger, Loren Toussaint, Greg Hett, & David Zaccaro

Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, (2009, November) 5(6), 338-340.

Abstract

Objective: This study explored test anxiety benefits of Wholistic Hybrid derived from EMDR (WHEE), Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.

Participants: Canadian university students with severe or moderate test anxiety participated.

Methods: A double-blind, controlled trial of WHEE (n = 5), EFT (n =5), and CBT (n = 5) was conducted. Standardised anxiety measures included: the Test Anxiety Inventory (TAI) and Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL-21).

Results: Despite small sample size, significant reductions on the TAI and HSCL-21 were found for WHEE; on the TAI for EFT; and on the HSCL-21 for CBT. There were no significant differences between the scores for the three treatments. In only two sessions WHEE and EFT achieved the equivalent benefits to those achieved by CBT in five sessions. Participants reported high satisfaction with all treatments. EFT and WHEE students successfully transferred their self-treatment skills to other stressful areas of their lives.

Conclusions: WHEE and EFT show promise as effective treatments for test anxiety.

The Effect of Progressive Muscular Relaxation and Emotional Freedom Techniques on Test Anxiety in High School Students: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Nilhan Sezgin, PhD, & Bahar Özcan, MA

Energy Psychology: Theory, Research, & Treatment, (2009), (1)1, 23-30.

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) and Progressive Muscular Relaxation (PMR) on test anxiety. A group of 312 high school students enrolled at a private academy were evaluated using the Test Anxiety Inventory (TAI), which contains Worry and Emotionality subscales. Scores for 70 students demonstrated high levels of test anxiety; these students were randomised into control and experimental groups. During a single treatment session, the control group received instruction in PMR and the experimental group in EFT, which was followed by self-treatment at home. After 2 months, subjects were retested using the TAI. Repeated covariance analysis was performed to determine the effects of EFT and PMR on the mean TAI score, as well as the 2 subscale scores. Each group completed a sample examination at the beginning and end of the study, and their mean scores were computed. Thirty-two of the initial 70 subjects completed all the study’s requirements, and all statistical analyses were done on this group. A statistically significant decrease occurred in the test anxiety scores of both the experimental and control groups. The EFT group had a significantly greater decrease than the PMR group (p < .05). The scores of the EFT group were lower on the Emotionality and Worry subscales (p < .05). Both groups scored higher on the test examinations after treatment. Although the improvement was greater for the EFT group, the difference was not statistically significant.

Flower Essences 

What are flower essences?

Flower essences have been used for healing since ancient times. The therapeutic qualities of flowers are released and captured when they are placed in pure water and left in sunlight. This is a very different process from the making of many conventional medicines, which are made directly from plant materials.

Each flower essence possesses its own unique properties. Some act on your body at a physical level, stimulating your body’s natural healing powers, while others have a subtle healing influence on your thought patterns and emotions.

We use flower essences from around the world. We use them both singly and in subtle combinations to treat the underlying physical and emotional causes of a wide range of conditions. They offer a unique method of rebalancing the whole person – body, mind and spirit.

What to expect

First we need to know all about you, and we’ll ask you a wide range of questions about your lifestyle, diet, likes and dislikes, and medical history.

Your unique formula may contain a number of different essences. It’s important that when you are back at home you follow the precise dosage programme. Some people we treat at Marlborough House tell us they feel an immediate benefit. With others the healing experience is more gradual.

Who and what we treat

You may be suffering from a lack of self-esteem. You may be exhausted and sleeping badly. You may feel overburdened by pressure at work or by problems at home. Maybe you are fearful or depressed.

Flower essences are safe and non-habit forming. Many people have reported feeling better after a course of flower essences

Indian Head Massage 

What is an Indian head massage?

In Indian head massage the therapist concentrates on massaging your head, neck and shoulders. This profoundly enjoyable and relaxing massage technique helps promote health and well-being. It stimulates nerve endings, improves blood supply to the scalp and can encourage hair growth.

What to expect

You sit fully clothed in a comfortable chair. Indian head massage is wonderfully relaxing, and at the end of your session you should feel an enhanced sense of well-being. One of the many benefits of Indian head massage is that it helps draw out poisonous toxins from your body. You may, therefore, feel a shade under the weather for a day or so after your session as your body gradually regains its natural balance.

What it treats

Indian head massage encourages a healthy, well-conditioned scalp, and can promote hair growth and slow down hair loss. It helps stimulate blood and lympathic flow to the head, neck and shoulders, improving circulation and reviving the body’s natural immunity. Clients have reported that it has helped to relieve muscular tension and pain, and reduced stress and tension-related conditions such as headaches, neck discomfort, and eye strain.

Mindfulness 

Clinical trials since 1972 have shown that meditation can reduce stress, depression and even chronic pain. The trials show that meditation increases white blood cells, lowers blood pressure, reduces anxiety, calms psoriasis,and is now the preferred therapy for depression prescribed by many medical doctors in the UK

What is Mindfulness Meditation?

Learning Mindfulness meditation can give us a real way to make peace with the life situations we are challenged by, be it stress, pain or illness, emotional or physical.

“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn to surf” is a good analogy. Mindfulness, once learned, will support you for life, whenever you need it, wherever you need it.

You learn how to ‘be fully in the moment’, using the breath to go deeper moment to moment, helping you to change the way you think and feel about your experiences in a non-judgemental way.

Mindfulness is a Buddhist meditation, but you don’t need to be a Buddhist to learn and benefit by it. Mindfulness is for everyone.

It is remarkable how just learning to breathe can be like someone coming up to you and saying “I’ll just take that stress, that pain away from you, shall I?”

EIGHT WEEK MINDFULNESS COURSE ONE TO ONE

The Mindfulness course is taught once a week for eight weeks. It consists of learning the relaxation, the breathing, the eating meditation, walking meditation and mindfulness in how we do things. You will learn how to integrate mindfulness into your everyday life. Once you do, your day will not feel complete without it!

MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR CHRONIC CONDITIONS

Taught one to one for people living with chronic disease, chronic pain, anxiety, depression and emotional distress. Mindfulness once learned is a tool for real life situations. We don’t need peace and quiet to practise mindfulness, we use mindfulness when we really need it out and about when in difficulty. Mindfulness is a best friend for life.

MINDFULNESS ONE TO ONE

Book a one hour guided mindfulness session during your lunch hour or after work – anytime you need some time out to reconnect. People report feeling calmer, diminished pain, and more gusto for life.! The inner chatter subsides…You can talk to us about your problems completely free and without obligation

Nail Bar

What to expect at our Nail Bar?

The nail bar at Marlborough House Therapy Centre is a sanctuary for those seeking exquisite nail care and pampering experiences. Step into our warm and inviting space, where our team of skilled technicians awaits to transform your nails into works of art. Whether you’re in need of a classic manicure, a trendy nail design, or a luxurious spa pedicure, we are dedicated to exceeding your expectations with impeccable service and attention to detail. Indulge in a moment of relaxation and let us elevate your style with flawless nails that reflect your unique personality. 

Our treatment menu is full of high quality nail treatments using luxury products by leading brands. Our team of Nail Artists have a wealth of qualifications and experience ensuring that you will always receive a service which is second to none.

Treatments

• Manicures:

Basic manicure (trimming, shaping, cuticle care, and polish)
French manicure (classic white tips with a natural base)
Gel manicure (long-lasting gel polish application cured under UV or LED light)
Spa manicure (includes exfoliation, moisturising mask, and hand massage)

• Pedicures:

Basic pedicure (soak, nail trimming, shaping, cuticle care, exfoliation, and polish)
Gel pedicure (gel polish application for durable, chip-resistant colour)
Spa pedicure (includes foot soak, callus removal, exfoliation, moisturising mask, massage, and polish)

• Nail Enhancements:

Acrylic nails (durable and long-lasting nail extensions)
Gel nails (lightweight and flexible nail extensions cured under UV or LED light)
Nail extensions with tips or forms (for length and shape customisation)

• Nail Art:

Hand-painted designs (customised nail art according to your preferences)
Nail stamping (intricate designs stamped onto nails using specialised tools)
Nail decals (pre-made designs applied to nails for added flair)

• Specialty Treatments:

Nail repair (fixing cracked or broken nails)
Nail polish change (quick change of nail colour without full manicure or pedicure)
Nail removal (safe removal of acrylic or gel nails)
Nail care consultations (advice on nail health, maintenance, and product recommendations)

Neuro Linguistic Programming

What is Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)?

NLP is a study of how and why we behave in the way we do. Since it was formulated in the 1970s, NLP practitioners have amassed a vast compilation of information and insights into the way we perceive and relate to the world and to other people. NLP’s systematic approach to the mind can help us improve the way we think, behave and communicate. NLP is recognised by the medical establishment, in business communications and marketing, in sports science, and in education.

What to expect?

First we talk to you. We ask you a wide range of questions about your lifestyle, likes and dislikes, and medical history.

Most of your negative thoughts, emotions and feelings are created by you unconsciously, and this is where NLP hypnotherapy proves to be such a powerful tool. We’ll take you into a gentle, deeply relaxing state of hypnosis. Don’t worry: you will always remain in control, and you cannot be forced to say or do things you don’t want to. The insights you gain during your NLP session sink in deeply, bringing you the impetus and ability to create lasting, positive change in your life.

Who and what we treat

The potent, safe NLP hypnotherapy techniques can help a wide range of debilitating problems and conditions. It can empower you to:

• Rid yourself of a phobia
• Stop smoking
• Gain added self-esteem and confidence
• Think more clearly
• Communicate more effectively with others
• Feel an enhanced sense of well-being

Psychotherapy

What is Psychometric Testing?

Psychometric testing measures a person’s strengths and challenging characteristics, typically for career, communication skills and personal development. We use internationally recognised tests such as the Hogan suite of assessments, SDI strengths deployment Inventory and OPQ. All these are administered online and follow up feedback or coaching sessions can be in person or by phone/Skype.

How Can it Help Me?

We can then help you use this information to determine how you can improve your skills and manage yourself so that you can achieve better work performance and better relationships. 

Once you have a better understanding of yourself, you can have better relationships with people at work. You might discover some new interests or hidden traits that you have not yet pursued but that the tests show you might enjoy. Psychometric testing can help you achieve overall satisfaction in your career

Sports Physiotherapy

What is Acupuncture / Stylostixis Therapy?

Traditional acupuncture is a healthcare system based on ancient principles which go back nearly two thousand years. It has a very positive model of good health and function and looks at pain and illness as signs that the body is out of balance. The overall aim of this treatment is to restore the body’s equilibrium.

What makes this system so uniquely suited to modern life is that physical, emotional and mental aspects are seen as interdependent and reflect what many people perceive as the connection between the different aspects of their lives. 

Based on Traditional Chinese acupuncture beliefs, acupuncturists are trained to use subtle diagnostic techniques that have been developed and refined for centuries. The focus is on the individual, not their illness, and all the symptoms are seen in relation to each other. Each patient is unique; two people with the same western diagnosis may well receive different acupuncture treatments.

Traditional acupuncturists believe that the underlying principle of treatment is that illness and pain occur when the body’s qi, or vital energy, cannot flow freely. There can be many reasons for this; emotional and physical stress, poor nutrition, infection or injury are among the most common. By inserting ultra-fine sterile needles into specific acupuncture points, a traditional acupuncturist seeks to re-establish the free flow of qi to restore balance and trigger the body’s natural healing response.

About the Treatment

During your first visit, your Acupuncturist needs to gain a thorough understanding of your main complaint and your general health and lifestyle. This involves asking questions about your current symptoms and your medical history, as well as such things as your sleeping pattern, your appetite and digestion, and your emotional wellbeing. Women are also asked about their menstrual cycle and any past pregnancies and childbirth.

You might feel that some questions appear unrelated to your condition, but the information you give helps your practitioner to form a more complete picture of your health and lifestyle. Your acupuncturist will also take your pulse on both wrists and may examine your tongue and feel for areas of muscular tension or pain. 

Your Main Health Complaint

When talking about your main complaint, the practitioner might ask you to describe in your own words what the symptoms feel like and how severe they are. You may also be asked how long you have been having the symptoms, whether they are constant or intermittent and how frequent they are. You should mention any medications that you are taking and whether you have tried any other therapies.

In order to make a diagnosis according to traditional Chinese medicine theory and to find the right treatment approach, the practitioner will also want to know more specific details.

Based on all the information you have given, the practitioner will make a diagnosis and put together your treatment plan, which may include lifestyle and dietary advice as well as acupuncture. Your practitioner will use very fine, single-use pre-sterilised needles to stimulate specific acupuncture points on your body. Because energy meridians range across the whole body, the points used are not necessarily close to where you experience pain or discomfort. For example, if you suffer from headaches, needles might be inserted in your foot or hand.