Imagination »The living tree«

Abstract

Imagination techniques in combination with metaphorical language are being increasingly used as part of the psychotherapeutic process in view of the proved positive neurobiological effects within the human brain. Although the exercise presented here is based on the theories of transaction analysis and integrative psychotherapy, its use is compatible with the psychotherapy of other modalities. »The Living Tree« imagination exercise is a specific contribution, available to therapists and clients as an additional option, which may support the client’s exploration of their internal world through projections. With this exercise, the client and therapist may explore a life script, ego states, life positions and relational needs. Activated parallel neurobiological processes may bring the client closer to the etiology of their problems, and often a link to traumatic events is also established. In further therapy, increased internal contact may be connected to the client’s existing problem solving strategies or therapy may shift to learning something new. The exercise is presented as a guided procedure, which can be adapted to meet the current circumstances and needs of a specific client. In order to provide an additional perspective, a case from psychotherapy practice is also presented.