A program utilizing eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy and reiki to treat PTSD in homeless adults residing in a rural area of the Pacific

The following dissertation presents an Alternative Healing Program (AHP), a new program that will integrate evidence-based practices and alternative healing practices in rural Hawaii among homeless adults diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The background demonstrates the need to develop a program that implements an alternative approach to healing by examining the various issues which homeless adults in rural Hawaii experience. The AHP will add to existing programs and literature by designing an effective program that promotes health and wellness among homeless adults in rural Hawaii. This program will provide valuable resources and a clinical protocol to assist homeless adults to achieve emotional wellness despite the challenges of being in rural Hawaii. The overall goal is to reduce symptoms of PTSD using alternative treatment therapies, particularly eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) and Reiki. The protocol is 15 sessions with a rolling enrollment design, along with a potential methodology for developing the AHP and measuring the overall effectiveness. In general, the AHP will integrate a humanistic theoretical approach to address emotional distress and bolster resiliency. Lastly, a discussion of possibilities and limitations is included. Implications for future research are presented.

Dissertation/Thesis

English

Malia Daniel

Daniel, M. (2018). A program utilizing eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy and reiki to treat PTSD in homeless adults residing in a rural area of the Pacific. (Doctoral dissertation, Capella University)