Quote:
Originally Posted by the final coda
Hi, I'm new here, this thread actually inspired me to sign up and comment  I'm a clinical psych grad student in the midst of training, so I won't recommend anything to you besides some healthy skepticism. I couldn't help but suggest that you take a look at Reiki or other "energy based treatment" paradigms offered up by the alt. med. industry with much caution and skepticism. There is no decent, quality empirical support for these treatments, which follows logically since the theoretical basis for their interventions are nonsensical and blatantly contrary to what we do know about physiology and what we know about the physics of "energy". Benefits are likely very short term and due to other factors associated with the experience: placebo, relaxation, having attention paid to you, confirmation biases and so on. Such is the case with acupuncture, which is another "energy" manipulation therapy.
For more info on NCCAM, or at least a different perspective, you might take a look at the blog: respectful insolence, and search NCCAM. There's quite a bit of commentary out there about the controversial department, so don't just take the websites information at face value.
At the very least, consider both sides, and don't part with your money or time too easily! I wish you all the best |
Honestly, I too was skeptical to try Reiki in addition to my therapy. I still am, to be frank. But really, if all I get out of it is some quiet time, attention paid to me, and relaxation (much like I would a massage or acupuncture or a pedicure) then so be it. In my opinion all those benefits still constitute the adventure as "money well spent" and, at this point, I don't have anything to lose. Really. Because my emotional state sucks so checking out into a quiet and nuturing space isn't such a bad thing.
Therapy is an individual process. So with that in mind my personal opinion is to each their own and for all I wish the ability and opportunity to find healing in whichever way they choose. And if one so chooses to try hyponotherapy, CBT, acupuncture, or standing on thier head, or yoga in addition to, or even in leiu of, traditional talk therapy, then more power to them. Because there is no "one size fits all" to this gig.
Thanks for chiming in the final coda- it helped me to discern better the point of me continuing to try out something different.
~Searching