Visions for healing the self with the planet: a study of therapists' use of imaginal techniques
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Authors
Roth, Rebecca C.
Issue Date
1997
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
The looming presence of the current eco-crisis is motivating people to search for new ways of creating meaning in their lives. The purpose of this study is to describe the effects of this on the world of psychotherapy. I begin by establishing the need for a shift to occur, from a more traditional (scientific/behavioral) to a more imaginal way of theorizing and practicing psychology. Then, specific examples of theories and practices that support the shift are reviewed. After reviewing the literature, I developed, piloted, and mailed out a survey, aiming to examine therapists' incorporation and attitudes underlying the use of imaginal techniques. The sample (n = 49) was described as a whole, and subjects were grouped and analyzed by comparing the more imaginal with the less imaginal on their stances on dualism, scientific skepticism, and spirituality. The results confirmed my hypotheses that therapists are shifting towards more imaginal ways of being, and that those who incorporate imaginal perspectives into their work have less dualistic perspectives, are more skeptical of science, and have a stronger connection with spirituality.