Hi, Sandy. You might like to try my way of playing. Most people play dulcie with a flat pick, but I believe my way is easier on the right hand.

Go to music store and ask to see the thumbpicks. Select a few plastic ones that fit your right thumb. Put a thumbpick on your right thumb. When you play, hold your right hand, palm down, over the strum hollow. Your hand is basically flat. Then pick the melody string with the thumbpick and pluck the other strings with your first, second or third finger(s).

This method allows your hand to be relaxed and fluid, because you aren't holding on to anything.

Also make sure your strings are not too high. You should be able to just fit a nickel under the melody string at the 3rd fret. Strings that are too high give your left hand too much work.

Good luck!

PS I don't hold it on my lap. I stick it to a table with Plasti-tack. Makes it louder and lets my shoulders relax.