Integrating complementary and alternative therapies into professional psychological practice: An exploration of practitioners’ perceptions of benefits and barriers

Abstract

Background and purposeAlthough Complementary and Alternative Therapies (CATs) are currently incorporated into psychotherapy, scepticism remains among professional and practicing psychologists about integration of CATs into professional practice. This research explored perceived benefits and barriers to integrating CATs into psychology practice with individual clients. Materials and methodsWe used a qualitative framework informed by Transpersonal Psychology to explore benefits and barriers to integrative psychology practice. We conducted semi-structured interviews with six practitioners trained or training in psychology and CATs and analysed verbatim transcripts using thematic analysis. ResultsParticipants reported personal, career-based, and epistemological benefits and barriers to integrative psychology practice. Benefits were improved therapeutic relationships, specialisation options, and a time reflective psychology. Barriers included stigma and bias, regulations, and dominance of the scientist-practitioner model. Superordinate themes were holism, connectedness, and governance. ConclusionResults activate conversation about the importance of a transpersonally oriented integrative psychological practice for the 21st century.