Therapeutic Touch in the Human Validation Process Model: A Reflexive Thematic Analysis

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Psychotherapy
• Humanistic Psychology

Background:

• Touch is a sensitive aspect of experiential therapy.
• Virginia Satir's Human Validation Process Model (HVPM) offers a framework for therapeutic interaction.
• Understanding the role of touch within specific therapeutic models is crucial for effective practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role and application of touch within Virginia Satir's Human Validation Process Model (HVPM).
• To gather insights from experienced practitioners on the use of touch in this specific therapeutic approach.

Main Methods:

• Phenomenological inquiry was employed.
• Qualitative data was collected through interviews with 15 participants using the HVPM.
• Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data.

Main Results:

• Five key themes emerged: establishing congruent connection, orchestrating touch, handle with care, self of the experiential therapist, and evolving contemporary considerations.
• The study provides best-practice considerations and examples for incorporating touch into experiential therapy.
• Participant quotes illustrate the nuances of using touch within the HVPM.

Conclusions:

• The findings offer valuable guidance for therapists on the safe and consensual use of touch.
• Incorporating touch thoughtfully can enhance healing within experiential therapy.
• This research contributes to the understanding of touch in humanistic and experiential therapeutic modalities.