What Is Therapeutic Touch?

Therapeutic Touch is a contemporary synthesis of several ancient healing practices. It was developed in 1972 by two American nurses, Dolores Krieger and Dora Kunz. Its purpose is to restore harmony and balance to the patient’s energy system. It can lead to physical, emotional, and mental healing.

Some of the effects reported by clients are:

Much clinical research has been done to document the effects of Therapeutic Touch. While especially good results have been shown for reducing or eliminating post-operative pain, accelerating the healing of wounds, decreasing anxiety, increasing function in osteoarthritis, and relieving tension headaches, Therapeutic Touch has been shown to be effective for many conditions. In an increasing number of hospitals and health care facilities, nurses are using Therapeutic Touch as part of routine care procedures, especially for surgery, psychiatric care, public health, pediatrics, geriatrics, and hospice. It is estimated that 30,000 to 40,000 health care professionals practice Therapeutic Touch worldwide.  
What Happens In A Therapeutic Touch Session?

The practitioner moves her hands around your body, within your energy field. She may gently place her hands on particular parts of your body. You remain fully clothed. There is no pressure applied, and no moving of your body. You may notice dramatic changes in how you feel. Sometimes you may feel nothing, then notice changes in your condition after a few hours or days. Therapeutic Touch sessions last from 15 to 30 minutes, and are often combined with other energy work techniques.  

Therapeutic Touch Training

Therapeutic Touch is taught at more than 90 universities and medical schools worldwide. It is also taught in continuing education programs and by private instructors. Health care professionals are not the only ones receiving training; classes usually include non-medical people simply wanting to help their families and friends. Basic skills can be learned in a few hours. Contact Barbara Clearbridge about classes in Therapeutic Touch.

Therapeutic Touch is endorsed by the American Holistic Nurses’ Association, Nurse Healers Professional Associates, Inc., and the National League for Nursing.
 

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