A pilot study of the experience of participating in a Therapeutic Touch practice group

This pilot study explored the experience of participating in a Therapeutic Touch practice group. A qualitative descriptive-exploratory method was used, involving 12 members of practice groups in Ontario and British Columbia, Canada. Analysis of the data using an extraction-synthesis process yielded...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inJournal of holistic nursing Vol. 26; no. 3; p. 161
Main Authors Moore, Theresa, Ting, Brigid, Rossiter-Thornton, Maria
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.09.2008
Subjects
Adult
British Columbia
Female
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Humans
Interpersonal Relations
Male
Ontario
Patient Satisfaction
Pilot Projects
Psychotherapy, Group - methods
Self Concept
Therapeutic Touch - methods
Treatment Outcome
Ontario
British Columbia
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Summary:This pilot study explored the experience of participating in a Therapeutic Touch practice group. A qualitative descriptive-exploratory method was used, involving 12 members of practice groups in Ontario and British Columbia, Canada. Analysis of the data using an extraction-synthesis process yielded four themes: (a) learning with others through sharing and hands-on experience is valued; (b) connecting with a network of supportive relationships that sustain self and Therapeutic Touch practice; (c) comfort-discomfort arising with self, others, or ideas; and (d) meaningful changes emerge while experiencing group energy and Therapeutic Touch. The findings expand current knowledge about the positive aspects of participating in practice groups and provide a beginning understanding of member discomfort, which had not been previously reported. This knowledge will be useful to Therapeutic Touch organizations, practice group leaders, and group members. It will also guide health care agencies and practitioners of other healing modalities who may be considering establishing practice groups.
ISSN:0898-0101
DOI:10.1177/0898010108316883