Empowerment in naturopathy: A qualitative analysis of practitioner perspectives

Abstract

Objective: This research aims to explore the role of empowerment in naturopathic consultations with patients with chronic pain.

Methods: Seven naturopaths were interviewed for up to 60 min online. A reflexive thematic analysis approach was used to code initial concepts. Through repeated immersion in the data, codes were clustered, refined and iteratively developed into overarching themes.

Results: Four major themes emerged from the data analysis: (i) establishing a therapeutic relationship, (ii) the therapeutic relationship as a mechanism for transformation, (iii) facilitating shared decision-making, and (iv) practitioner critical reflection. Participants identified that initial consultations were important for establishing rapport, identifying the causes of chronic pain, triggers of acute flare-ups and making sure the patient felt understood. Subsequent consultations focused on empowering patients through education, promotion of self-care and increasing self-awareness. Empowerment was manifest through all consultations by using active listening, education, and engagement with patients in a respectful manner that prioritised their treatment preferences in management plans.

Conclusions: The findings highlight the central role of empowerment in naturopathic consultations with patients with chronic pain. Patients were supported to become active agents in decisions about their health care, consistent with person-centred models of care. This in turn promoted patient empowerment. Critical self-reflection on the part of practitioners was integral to their empowering approach. The combination of patient empowerment and critical self-reflection suggest that a framework of empowerment may be useful for advancing our understanding of naturopathy practice in Australia.

Keywords: Chronic pain; Doctor patient relations; Empowerment; Holistic health; Naturopathy.