Asynchronous journaling as a therapeutic device: Attenuation of negative imagery

Abstract

The use of expressive writing, particularly poetry, can be used to influence the mood of a person through the process of asynchronous journaling. Dark imagery written by one in a dyad can be counterbalanced by the lighter, more positive metaphor of the other. Deeper understanding of the person is possible through this process. This is true whether between therapist and client or between trusted persons in a nontherapeutic arrangement. A brief self-reflective example is provided.

Keywords:

• Expressive writing
• imagery
• journaling
• poetry therapy
• transformative