Rosen Method Bodywork practitioners' perspective on the treatment, client interaction and client safety

Abstract

IntroductionThis study focuses on the Rosen Method Bodywork, which consists of gentle body touching. Contemporary scientific knowledge focuses on how the treatments work or on clients’ perceptions; practitioners’ experiences are quite unexplored. In order to reach a better understanding of the therapy their opinion is important. The aim of this study was to describe practitioners’ views on client interaction and the treatments, and how they regard client safety and protect their clients. MethodThe study was qualitative and descriptive. Data was collected by semi-structured interviews with ten private-practicing certified Swedish Rosen Method Bodywork practitioners and analyzed by content analysis. ResultsRosen Method Bodywork training was described to develop trainee practitioners’ interactive skills, self-knowledge and an embodied awareness of what future clients may experience. Before treatment, practitioners perform risk assessments as touching may release demanding responses in clients. Clients were regarded as co-equal with own responsibility for the treatment. In treatment, it was considered important to create a supportive environment and adapt touching to each client´s individual condition and responses, and by this balancing and controlling the client´s process. Clients are not followed up regularly during the post-treatment phase. ConclusionThe client interaction resonates with the principles of person-centred healthcare. The practitioners showed consciousness of potential risks although some critical aspects, due to contextual ruling principles, that might affect client safety or well-being are identified. Collaboration between conventional health care providers and Rosen Method Bodywork practitioners might benefit clients concerning risk assessments or other client safety related issues.