Believing in make-believe: looking at theater as a metaphor for psychotherapy

Fam Process. 1997 Jun;36(2):151-69. doi: 10.1111/j.1545-5300.1997.00151.x.

Abstract

In this essay, I explore the theatrical dimensions of psychotherapy. I argue that many of the historical, practice-related, and conceptual connections between theater and therapy often are only alluded to in the literature, but rarely made explicit. In doing so, however, it seems apparent that, as a metaphor for psychotherapy, theater perhaps offers a more appropriate fit than those narrative and conversational metaphors that have been employed so far. Proposing that theater is, in fact, the metaphor on which psychotherapy bases itself, I briefly examine some of its implications for how therapy might be conceptualized and performed. I conclude by inviting other therapists to consider--by openly acknowledging theater as a metaphor for psychotherapy--if they might then become more engaging, creative, and imaginative in their work.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acting Out
  • Drama*
  • Humans
  • Knowledge
  • Models, Psychological
  • Professional-Patient Relations
  • Psychodrama
  • Psychotherapy*
  • Symbolism*