Psychological Support Process Using Dohsa-hou for a University Student Diagnosed with PTSD due to an Earthquake Disaster

Abstract

In recent years, attention has been paid to supporting disaster victims through the use of Dohsa-hou. In counseling, talking is an important aspect, and the focus is on the psychological growth and recovery of the client in student counseling. In this study we examined the significance and issues of Dohsa-hou and the priority of psychological support in student counseling, based on the case of a university student affected by an earthquake disaster. Client A who had stuttering experienced an earthquake when he was a sophomore. About five months later, he visited the student counseling room and has since attended 24 sessions. During the first session, it was determined that he was showing signs of post-traumatic stress disorder, but he refused to see a doctor. However, he could begin talking about his father’s conflict after performing relaxation based on Dohsa-hou. After that, he began to acknowledge his own efforts and self-determination, but he still experienced insomnia. Therefore, the counselor again recommended that he see a doctor, and he accepted. Eventually, his self-understanding improved, he got a job offer and graduated from university. Based on his recovery and growth, we discussed the support of earthquake victims in student counseling and the understanding of the client by the use of Dohsa-hou.