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

TL;DR

This study explores how touch is used in a specific therapy model, offering insights into its safe and effective application in experiential therapy.

Contribution

The study introduces a reflexive thematic analysis of touch in Virginia Satir's Human Validation Process Model, offering new best-practice guidelines.

Findings

Five key themes emerged regarding the use of touch in experiential therapy.

Safe and consensual touch can enhance therapeutic connection and healing.

Therapists must balance personal and professional boundaries when using touch.

Abstract

Using touch in therapy is a nuanced and important topic that is especially relevant for experiential therapists. The present study aimed to explore the role and use of touch in Virginia Satir's Human Validation Process Model (HVPM) through phenomenological inquiry. Fifteen participants who use this model were interviewed and asked about their perspective and use of touch in the HVPM. Using qualitative data from expert interviews, the researchers offer best‐practice considerations and examples of if and how touch can be incorporated into experiential therapy. Reflexive thematic analysis was utilized to generate five themes, including: (1) establishing congruent connection, (2) orchestrating touch, (3) handle with care, (4) self of the experiential therapist, and (5) evolving contemporary considerations. Each theme is discussed with the associated codes in addition to direct quotes from participants. These results can inform therapeutic practice and ways to utilize safe and consensual touch for healing in therapy.