Therapeutic Touch (TT), defined by the Nurse Healers-Professional Associates International Inc. (NH-PAI), is a contemporary interpretation of several ancient healing practices and is an intentionally directed process of energy exchange during which the practitioner uses the hands as a focus to facilitate healing. It was developed in the early 1970's by Dolores Krieger, PhD, RN, and Dora Kunz, a natural healer. It is grounded in nursing research. The co-founders endorsed NH-PAI as the official organization of Therapeutic Touch
Therapeutic Touch is a gentle procedure that uses the hands with intention to promote relaxation and comfort. Touch may or may not be used, as this process primarily helps restore balance within an individual at a subtle energetic level. Anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, pain, wounds or infections, immune system disorders or end of life can benefit from TT.
There is nursing research supporting its usefulness to help decrease pain, anxiety and promote wound healing and immune system function. A deep sense of peace is often experienced with TT and each person has a unique response. TT may influence all aspects of an individual: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.
For more information, see also: