Date

10-14-2026

Department

School of Behavioral Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (PhD)

Chair

Jamie E. Clark

Keywords

posttraumatic stress disorder, dog training, complementary medicine, integrative medicine

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Psychology

Abstract

Introduction: Posttraumatic stress and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are highly prevalent among Servicemembers and veterans. Many of those with PTSD also struggle with moral injury and co-occurring health complications. This combination results in poor outcomes with current evidence-based practices. However, a series of recent studies examined the efficacy of a service dog training program (SDTP) which demonstrated improvements in symptoms.

Methods: A privatized archival dataset of redacted transcripts was used. The interviews were collected during a broader mixed methods study and maintained for a phenomenological, thematic analysis. There were 119 transcripts from 84 of the original 117 participants who engaged in a SDTP between 2019-2022. After screening, 112 transcripts from 81 participants were included in this analysis. Coding was completed using NVIVO software. Biases, during the coding process, were mitigated by practicing bracketing and reflexive analysis. Microsoft Excel and a closed artificial intelligence tool were used during the final thematic analysis.

Results: Participants were mostly white, male, Servicemembers or veterans between the ages of 18 and 65 years with symptoms or a diagnosis of PTSD. Key themes identified were the need for holistic health, holistic psychology, and trauma-informed care. Promoting a sense of purpose was a primary link between all three.

Conclusion: There is a growing body of knowledge regarding ways to improve treatment options for those with PTSD. This study identifies the importance of promoting sense of purpose and belonging through holistic and trauma informed care. Additional research is required.

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