In my practice, I’ve come to realize that no single approach to therapy has all the answers. That’s why I take a more integrated path, blending Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). These three work beautifully together, creating a well-rounded, dynamic approach to healing.
ACT helps people acknowledge and accept their feelings without being overwhelmed by them. EFT adds in a way to release the emotional tension that’s been building up—helping ease fear and stress by tapping on specific points. Then SFBT brings the focus onto solutions, shifting the conversation away from problems and instead highlighting moments where the issue wasn’t so bad, or maybe even absent. These “exceptions” become the foundation for recognizing how much change is actually possible, even when clients feel stuck.
Let me share an example. I’ve been working with a client who suffered a serious shoulder injury at work. Despite successful surgery and physical therapy, the emotional toll was significant—he was terrified of reinjuring himself and felt stuck in a cycle of anxiety. We started by using ACT to acknowledge his fear and pain without judgment, allowing him to stop resisting those feelings and simply accept them. That acceptance made space for some relief. Then, we brought in EFT, using tapping techniques to calm his fear and lower his anxiety in real time. Lastly, we moved on to SFBT, where we focused on small, manageable steps he could take to rebuild his confidence at work. Little by little, this approach helped him shift from fear and avoidance to action and resilience.
The Therapist’s Journey: Learning and Evolving
As a therapist, blending these methods has taught me so much about the healing process. Early on, I might’ve leaned heavily on just one approach, hoping it would be the magic key. But as time has passed, I’ve realized that therapy works best when it’s flexible and adapts to the person sitting in front of me.
By combining ACT, EFT, and SFBT, I’m able to respond to what a client needs in the moment while keeping their bigger picture in mind. This adaptability has not only improved outcomes for my clients but also helped me grow as a practitioner. I’ve seen how clients thrive when they have the tools to accept where they are and take steps toward the life they want, even when things feel uncertain or overwhelming.
Conclusion: A Holistic Path to Healing
Healing is not a one-size-fits-all process, and that’s why I believe so strongly in integrating ACT, EFT, and SFBT. Together, these approaches offer a pathway for clients to accept what’s happening, release emotional barriers, and rebuild their lives in a way that addresses both their emotional and practical needs. Whether it’s overcoming work-related challenges, managing pain, or reducing anxiety, this holistic approach gives clients the tools they need to thrive.
As I continue to work with these therapies, I’m constantly inspired by the resilience and growth I witness in my clients—and I look forward to growing alongside them.
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