iP Approach

The simple use of image, in many forms, is the key element that separates imagePathways from a traditional talk therapy approach. Using image for emotional healing is the foundation of the imagePathways Process. “Response to image” can challenge a client in different and deeper ways than just “talking” about issues. imagePlay, artPlay and sandPlay are interwoven modalities in the imagePathways Process. When EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and/or EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) are combined with the iP, creative modalities shifts begin to happen. New perspectives are embraced and change is experienced. Clients KNOW that something profound is definitely happening.

The imagePathways Approach will:

  • Open the door to using image and creative process as a tool for emotional healing.
  • Give you the freedom to “play” with image in a new and different way.
  • Allow you to embrace the creative part of you that has always longed for expression.
  • Bring “fun” into the therapy process.
  • Amaze you as the process unfolds and brings you one insight after another.
  • Facilitate emotional healing when other methods may have fallen short.
  • Provide faster, deeper emotional healing than traditional talk therapy may have provided in the past.

Transformative Arts ~ imagePathways Process

The ImagePathway Process uses any one of the following modalities. They may be used independently as a process for healing or can be combined in any way that is comfortable for the client.

WHAT IS ARTPLAY? Artplay allows one to use “personal creative process” to focus on healing and personal growth. Widely diverse artistic practices and materials are available including drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, clay, mixed media, etc. They may be explored to facilitate one’s inner creativity and promote healing on a deep level. Creative expression becomes the doorway to insight, where in-depth communication and healing occur.

WHAT IS IMAGEPLAY? “Words fill our heads while image resounds in our heart and soul.” Because humans are visual creatures, our inner world is, in part, a result of the images of our visual experience. By moving beyond verbal expression, into a response to visual image one can touch the depths of the psyche. With a vast array of images available one is able to choose to work with images that evoke emotions, memories, and beliefs that lie at the core of being. Use of Imageplay gives access to whatever might be buried in the unconscious.

WHAT IS SANDPLAY? Sandplay is a technique that involves “creative imagination.” With the use of sand and three-dimensional figures, called miniatures, one creates pictures in the sand called “sand worlds.” It is possible to express deeper parts of the psyche in a silent non-verbal way. This use of image plays a role in the processing of emotional information. Healing and transformation can take place, restoring the psyche to its place of wholeness.

WHAT IS EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)? EMDR is a method of treatment that accesses trauma locked in the nervous system. This is one of the most important methods to emerge in therapy in decades. This method accelerates the treatment of a wide range of pathologies, self-esteem issues and limiting self-beliefs related to both upsetting past events and present life conditions. The clients’ inherent information-processing system can be activated through the use of directed eye movements by a trained clinician. Alternative forms of stimulation including sound or hand taps can be used. Equipment such as the EyeScan 2000 has been developed especially for EMDR.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM EMDR? Controlled studies of victims of combat, rape, molestation, abuse, accident, catastrophic loss, terrorism, bombings, natural disaster, etc. indicate that the EMDR method is capable of rapid desensitization of traumatic events. This includes the restructuring of distorted beliefs and a significant reduction of client symptoms such as emotional distress, intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and nightmares associated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) visit EMDR website.

WHAT IS EFT ? (Emotional Freedom Technique) – Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) is an emotional needle–free version of acupuncture that is based on new discoveries regarding the connection between your body’s subtle energies, your emotions, and your health. EFT has been reported successful in thousands of cases covering a huge range of emotional, health and performance issues. EFT is simple to learn and can be done easily at home. Watch video in upper right corner of EFT web site to hear testimonials from satisfied clients and users.