Healing Touch for Patients
Healing Touch offers a gentle way to support your healing, comfort, and well-being, whether you’re receiving medical treatment, recovering from surgery, managing stress, or caring for a loved one. Used alongside conventional medical care, Healing Touch can help promote relaxation and support your physical and emotional well-being.
What Is Healing Touch?
Healing Touch is a gentle, non-invasive therapy that supports the body’s natural healing processes. Trained practitioners use light touch or hold their hands just above your body to encourage balance and relaxation.
Healing Touch is an evidence-informed therapy supported by published research. It is used alongside your medical care, not as a replacement for it.
Many people find Healing Touch deeply relaxing and comforting. Whether you’re managing stress, undergoing medical treatment, recovering from surgery, or supporting a loved one through illness, Healing Touch offers an additional way to care for your physical and emotional well-being.
What Happens During a Session?
- You’ll remain fully clothed and can receive Healing Touch while lying down or sitting comfortably in a chair.
- Sessions typically last 20–60 minutes, depending on your needs and the care setting.
- With your permission, your practitioner may use gentle touch.
- Some techniques are performed with the practitioner’s hands held just above your body, without physical contact.
- Many people experience deep relaxation and may notice less pain or anxiety after a session.
How Healing Touch Complements Your Medical Care
Treatment
Surgery
Hospitalization
Palliative Care
Care
Health
Management
Management
Health
Centers
Where Healing Touch is Used in Healthcare
Healing Touch is integrated into a variety of healthcare settings to support whole-person, patient-centered care. Because it is a flexible, non-invasive approach, Healing Touch can be adapted to meet the unique needs of patients across the continuum of care.
Hospitals
Healing Touch may be incorporated into inpatient and outpatient care to support patient comfort, relaxation, and overall well-being.
Cancer Centers
Healing Touch is often offered as a supportive therapy to help patients navigate the physical and emotional challenges associated with cancer treatment.
Cardiac Care
Healing Touch may be integrated into cardiovascular care to promote relaxation and support patients throughout treatment and recovery.
Veterans Care
Healing Touch is used in Veterans Medical Centers and Clinics as part of a whole-person approach to supporting the unique needs of Veterans.
Hospice & Palliative Care
Healing Touch can provide a calming, compassionate presence that supports comfort, dignity, and quality of life for patients and their families.
Rehabilitation
Healing Touch may complement rehabilitation programs by supporting relaxation and overall well-being during the recovery process.
Behavioral Health
Healing Touch can be integrated into behavioral health settings to support stress reduction, emotional well-being, and therapeutic presence as part of comprehensive care.
Women's Health
Healing Touch may be used to support women during pregnancy, childbirth, recovery, and throughout other stages of health and wellness.
Employee Wellness Program
Healthcare organizations use Healing Touch to support the well-being of nurses, physicians, and other staff by promoting self-care, resilience, and stress management.
Find Healing Touch Services
At Your Hospital or Medical Facility
Ask your healthcare facility whether Healing Touch services are available to you or your loved one.
Find a Trained Practitioner
The Healing Touch Practitioner Directory lists trained practitioners that provide in-person and distance sessions.
Interested in
Learning Healing Touch?
The Healing Touch Program Level 1 Healing Touch class is open to everyone.
HEALING TOUCH PROGRAM
