EFT: Origin and Standard

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) was developed by Gary Craig and is now known as Official EFT. This term refers to the original method as developed and further refined by him.

Official EFT consists of two approaches: Gold Standard EFT and Optimal EFT. Gold Standard EFT is the tapping-based form of EFT. Optimal EFT is the later, meditative approach introduced by Gary Craig in 2014.

Although these two approaches are applied differently, they are based on the same underlying method: working with specific events, negative emotions, and underlying stress patterns.

This page describes the origin of EFT, the development of Official EFT, and the role of Gabriëlle Rutten and Novet – The EFT Standard in continuing this method.

The origin of EFT

In the 1990s, Gary Craig developed Emotional Freedom Techniques as a practical and structured method for reducing emotional and physical tension. This original form of EFT, now referred to as Gold Standard EFT, uses tapping on specific acupressure points combined with focused attention.

From the beginning, the emphasis was not only on the technique itself, but on the way it is applied. Systematically working with specific events and continuing until a measurable result is achieved form the core of the method.

In 2014, Gary Craig expanded EFT with a second approach: Optimal EFT. This approach focuses on releasing problems through a more direct and inner process, without the use of tapping.

Although the execution differs, both approaches are based on the same underlying principles and together form Official EFT.

The method behind Official EFT

Official EFT does not refer to a single technique, but to the method underlying both Gold Standard EFT and Optimal EFT.

This method is characterized by:

• working with specific events rather than general issues
• accurately identifying what is involved
• systematically reducing emotional intensity
• working until a tested zero (complete neutrality) is achieved
• uncovering and resolving underlying patterns and limiting beliefs

This structure makes EFT a reproducible and testable process. Its effectiveness is directly related to the extent to which these principles are applied.

When only the technique is used without this method, a simplified version emerges that differs fundamentally from Official EFT.

Gold Standard EFT and Optimal EFT

Within Official EFT, two approaches are distinguished:

Gold Standard EFT (Tapping)
This approach uses tapping on acupressure points while focusing on a specific problem or event. It is a direct and structured way of working with EFT.

Optimal EFT (Meditation)
This approach is a meditative form of EFT that does not use tapping. Instead, it works through focused attention and inner attunement to release problems. As with Gold Standard EFT, it works with specific events and underlying stress patterns, but the process is quiet and internal.

Although the execution differs, both approaches follow the same method. They therefore form one coherent whole: Official EFT.

Why a clear standard is essential

As EFT has become more widely known, various simplified versions and interpretations have emerged. This can lead to essential elements of the method being lost.

When Official EFT is not followed:

• work becomes less specific
• underlying patterns remain unresolved
• the process is not always carried through to a complete resolution
• the focus shifts toward symptom relief

Maintaining the original method is therefore essential for consistent and lasting results.

The role of Gabriëlle Rutten

Gabriëlle Rutten worked closely with Gary Craig for more than twelve years and contributed to his webinars and training materials. Through this long-term collaboration, she gained deep insight into the original method and the underlying principles of EFT.

Gabriëlle Rutten is the appointed successor of Gary Craig, founder of EFT, and director of Novet – The EFT Standard.

In this role, she is responsible for:

• preserving the original EFT method
• maintaining the quality and structure of its application
• transferring this knowledge to others
• further developing EFT within the framework of its original principles

Her work focuses on ensuring that EFT does not become diluted into a simplified technique, but remains a structured and effective method.

The role of Novet – The EFT Standard

Novet – The EFT Standard is the training institute and platform where Official EFT is taught, applied, and further developed.

In 2016, Novet was designated by Gary Craig as a Gary Craig Official EFT Training Center.

Within Novet, the focus is on:

• offering structured EFT training programs
• training professionals in Official EFT (Gold Standard EFT and Optimal EFT)
• ensuring quality and consistency
• providing access to the original work of Gary Craig

Through this role, Novet forms the bridge between the origin of EFT and its application in practice today.

Here, the method is not only taught, but also understood in its full depth and coherence.

Continuity of the original method

By transferring his work, Gary Craig ensured the continuity of EFT through a clear line. This continuity is essential to prevent the method from becoming fragmented or losing its effectiveness.

Within this line, the core of EFT remains unchanged:

• working with specific events
• aiming for complete emotional neutrality
• addressing underlying patterns
• applying a structured and testable approach

By continuing to follow these principles, EFT remains recognizable as the method originally developed, regardless of where or by whom it is applied.

Summary

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) originates from the work of Gary Craig and has developed into a method used worldwide.

Within Official EFT, this method consists of two approaches: Gold Standard EFT and Optimal EFT, both based on the same underlying framework.

Gabriëlle Rutten is the appointed successor of Gary Craig, founder of EFT, and director of Novet – The EFT Standard. Through this role, and through Novet – The EFT Standard, Official EFT is preserved, taught, and continued in its original form.

This page provides a clear overview of the origin, structure, and continuation of EFT as it was intended.