The Roles of Metaphor and Imagination in Child Trauma Treatment

ABSTRACT

This article presents developmental theory regarding the emergence and importance of metaphor and imagination to child development. The author then reviews psychotherapy research and clinical literature to identify ways that these two mental processes, as transtheoretical elements of child therapy, can be applied within trauma-specific treatment for expressing and processing difficult experiences, integrating traumatic memories, containing fears, bolstering self-efficacy, and expanding understanding of self and others. Case examples are provided to illustrate clinical applications.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

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Notes on contributors

Craig Haen

Craig Haen is a psychotherapist in private practice in White Plains, NY, and an independent scholar. He is co-founder of the Kint Institute, which offers a post-Masters certificate program in the arts and trauma treatment. He serves as adjunct faculty at New York University and Lesley University, teaching courses in clinical practice and research.