The use of touch in counselling and psychotherapy is rarely spoken of. A
contentious topic, there is little research on therapists' current
practices and views, and almost none relating to work with younger
clients. This book reveals working therapists' practices, beliefs and
understandings of the use of touch in therapeutic contexts with
children, adolescents and adults. Six broad themes were identified: the
meaning of touch; risks, fears and concerns; power and control issues;
contracting, consents and note-taking; the raising of consciousness; and
to touch or not to touch. Decisions as to whether or not to use touch
were found to be complex, informed by a wide range of societal,
cultural, methodological and philosophical discourses, as well as via
personal experience and an understanding of potential impact on the
client. Clients with abuse issues, work with children, and working
cross-culturally were all identified as specific areas to consider. This
book may be of use to counsellors, psychotherapists, supervisors and
ethics committees, informing ethical practice, and decision making. It
may also be helpful for training purposes.