The Little Red Car: Metaphor as a Tool for Working with Teenagers

Abstract

The relationship between counselor and teenager is unique because of the nature of adolescence. Teenagers both need to be seen by others and also to develop the ability to look at and see themselves. These are fundamental elements of the encounter between counselors and teenage clients, especially when the teenager is going through a difficult time. Metaphors introduced into counseling sessions by teenagers offer a direct way of building a relationship. However, this deep seeing may create a merging of emotions that can lead to the breakdown of the relationship. This article describes the author's work with a teenage boy and examines the mistake she made in interpreting his metaphor.

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Notes on contributors

Cetta Berardo

Cetta Berardo is a Certified Transactional Analyst (education) who works as counselor with adolescents. She is also a writer and has published several articles in the Italian transactional analysis journal Neopsiche and elsewhere. She can be reached at via Rubatera 12, 12030 Manta, Italy; e-mail: [email protected].