Using Emotional Freedom Techniques to help smokers quit
Official title: The Effect of EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) in Smokers Failing a Smoking Cessation Program
Run by Soul Medicine Institute · NCT00981396 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if Emotional Freedom Techniques can help smokers with anxiety and cravings quit smoking better when combined with therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Early Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 12 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Soul Medicine Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ormskirk, Lancashire) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 20, 2009 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT00981396 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are smokers experiencing high anxiety, intense cravings, and low confidence in their ability to quit.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who do not experience anxiety or cravings related to quitting smoking may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) in improving quit rates among smokers who struggle with traditional smoking cessation programs. It targets individuals with high anxiety, cravings, and low confidence in their ability to quit smoking. Participants will receive EFT alongside Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to address their unique challenges in quitting. The study is conducted at the NHS Central Lancashire Trust, which has a strong track record in smoking cessation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve quit rates for smokers who have previously struggled to quit.
How similar studies have gone: While EFT is a relatively novel approach in smoking cessation, similar psychological interventions have shown promise in improving quit rates.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * High anxiety related to the quit attempt * Cravings which sabotage the quit attempt * Low confidence at their ability to quit and remain quit Exclusion Criteria: * None, all NHS clients are eligible
Where it's running
-
NHS Central Lancashire Primary Care Trust
Ormskirk, Lancashire, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Dawson Church, PhD — Soul Medicine Institute
- Study coordinator: Joan Draper, LPC
- Email: joan.draper@btinternet.com
- Phone: 01695 588000
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.