Integrating Complementary and Alternative techniques in Psychological Practice. A summary of various methods to be considered.
Complementary and alternative medicine classifies a
broad field of medical and health-care practice that is not defined as
conventional medicine. Meditation, bio-feedback, and hypnosis are just a few
examples of effective CAM techniques used in treating ailments and promoting
wellness. The use of alternative medicine has become increasingly popular over
the past two decades, though a majority of these methods have been around for
thousands of years. In a society dominated by conventional systems, a growing
number of health care professionals are integrating CAM into their practice or
declaring it their specialty.
Reiki,
a term meaning “spiritually guided life force energy”, is a technique I found
very interesting. This method involves the transfer of energy from a trained
professional to the client’s body to heal an existing ailment (Khalsa, 2012).
It is essentially based on the idea that energy is a life force responsible for
keeping us alive and should be maintained at a high level. A low level of “life
force energy” is considered to be the cause for bad health and stress in an
affected individual. Reiki is a spiritual approach generally focused on symptom
management and self-improvement. Although there is evidence correlating Reiki
with successful healing, there is a lack of research to prove the method’s
effectiveness for therapeutic purpose. Personally, positive energy promotes
health and well-being and Reiki is a legitimate technique. I aim to surround
myself with individuals who are upbeat and generally maintain a pleasant
disposition. I have noticed that my mood level is lower when interacting with
people who are pessimistic, unhappy, or exhibit a miserable attitude. I think
that the fundamentals expressed by Reiki should be integrated into treatment
approaches by all health care professionals. A positive environment cultivates
positive attitudes which should be an objective for treating clients. The
article mentions that psychologists may oppose Reiki because it crosses ethical
boundaries. In response, I think that professionals don’t necessarily have to
perform the hand positions that this technique entails but should still
incorporate the mental principles.
Another
CAM method that I found interesting was music therapy. Whether writing music,
making music, or listening to music, evidence has shown this technique to
reduce anxiety, depression, and pain. It can also be used to improve
communication, promote physical rehabilitation, and enhance memory. According
to the American Music Therapy Association, music is “a form of sensory
stimulation that provokes responses due to the familiarity, predictability and
feelings of security associated with it. (musictherapy.org).This method aims to
help individuals who may have trouble expressing themselves using words alone
by incorporating music in therapy sessions. Music therapy provides opportunity
to make positive changes in mood and emotional states of individuals while
helping them gain personal insight. Research has shown that listening to music
can decrease the stress hormone known as cortisol (Musictherapy.org) This
approach has also been effective in individuals with schizophrenia by improving
their mental state and cognitive function. In aggressive individuals, music
therapy helps to channel their emotions into constructive means. For example, a
music therapist could have a client sing songs of their choice to relieve
feelings of tension and frustration. Music therapy seems to be a CAM more
commonly used by psychologists compared to other professionals in other health
fields. Music is a huge part of my life. Writing, singing, and listening to
music have always served as therapy for personal stress. The music I write
manifestation of my emotions while the music I listen to is usually a
reflection of my current mood. This article has instigated further research on
how I can use Music therapy programs with future clients.
The
basic elements of mental health therapy are similar to many complementary and
alternative methods. They both focus on a client using their innate resources
and independently curing themselves. These methods are simple and natural and
much less invasive. Conventional methods of treatment include the
administration of prescription drugs for treatment which implies that the
client is putting an unnatural chemical into their body. I believe that this
can usually lead to other serious issues such as dependency and addiction. It
is important for professionals in the health field to consider treatments that
are best for the client. Unfortunately, conventional professionals typically
disregard a client’s culture and personal beliefs. Incorporating the
fundamentals of some of the CAM methods could help ensure that a treatment plan
meets all the client’s needs without conflicting with their personal
preferences. Once a practicing professional, I plan to integrate the
fundamentals of CAM in with my therapy approach!
References
American
Music Therapy Association. (2012). Music therapy and mental health. Retrieved
April 14, 2013, from http://www.musictherapy.org/assets/1/7/MT_Mental_Health_2006.pdf
Barnett, J.
E., & Shale, A. J. (2013). Alternative techniques. Retrieved April 14,
2013, from http://www.apa.org/monitor/2013/04/ce-corner.aspx
Khalsa, P.
(2012). Reiki: An introduction. Retrieved April 14, 2013, from http://nccam.nih.gov/health/reiki/introduction.htm
