Therapist and operator experiences utilizing multi-modal motion-assisted Memory Desensitization and Reconsolidation (3MDR) for treatment of combat related posttraumatic stress disorder amongst military and veteran populations

BACKGROUND: As provisions of mental healthcare services to military and veteran populations increases the risk to service providers developing secondary traumatic stress (STS), efforts are needed to examine the impact of delivering novel interventions which may include 3MDR. As a virtual-reality supported intervention, 3MDR exposes the patient, therapist and operator to graphic and sensory stimuli (i.e. narratives, imagery, smells, and music) in the course of the intervention. 3MDR is actively being researched at multiple sites internationally within military and veteran populations. It is, therefore, crucial to ensure the safety and wellbeing of 3MDR therapists and operators who are exposed to potentially distressing sensory stimuli. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to qualitatively examine the impact and experiences of STS amongst therapists and operators in delivering 3MDR. For this study, impact will be defined as therapists or operators experiencing perceived STS as a result of delivering 3MDR. METHODS: This exploratory qualitative study recruited 3MDR therapists and operators (N = 18) from Canada, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States who had previously delivered 3MDR therapy. Telephone or video-conferencing interviews were used to gather data that was subsequently transcribed and thematically analyzed. RESULTS: Four themes emerged among the therapists (n = 13) and operators (n = 5): (1) personal cost and benefits of 3MDR, (2) professional paradox of a 3MDR therapist, (3) perceived effect of 3MDR on patients, and (4) recommendations for future 3MDR use. CONCLUSIONS: STS was not noted to be a significant challenge for 3MDR therapists and operators. Future research may investigate optimal means of providing training and ongoing support for 3MDR therapists and operators. HIGHLIGHTS: Secondary Traumatic Stress was not noted to be a significant challenge for 3MDR therapists and operators. Future research may investigate optimal means of providing training and ongoing support for 3MDR therapists and operators.