Using Emotional Freedom Techniques to help smokers quit

The Effect of EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) in Smokers Failing a Smoking Cessation Program

EARLY_PHASE1 · Soul Medicine Institute · NCT00981396

This study is testing if Emotional Freedom Techniques can help smokers with anxiety and cravings quit smoking better when combined with therapy.

Quick facts

PhaseEARLY_PHASE1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages12 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorSoul Medicine Institute (other)
Locations1 site (Ormskirk, Lancashire)
Trial IDNCT00981396 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are smokers experiencing high anxiety, intense cravings, and low confidence in their ability to quit.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience anxiety or cravings related to quitting smoking may not benefit from this study.

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 performed: While EFT is a relatively novel approach in smoking cessation, similar psychological interventions have shown promise in improving quit rates.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Ormskirk, Lancashire

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Smoking, smoking, EFT, CBT, cravings, trauma

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.