The Use of Dreams in Psychotherapy: An Integrative Model

The manner in which dreams are used in psychotherapy largely depends on how therapists approach dream material. Despite differences in terminology and techniques, the function and purpose of using dreams in psychotherapy are often described similarly by diverse models of psychology and theories of dream meaning. Given these similarities, comprehensive understanding of the clinical potential of dream work may only be possible with the integration of various approaches. Using a review of clinical, physiological, and linguistic approaches to understanding dreams, this manuscript suggests a new Integrative Model of dream work. This model suggests specific ways various approaches to dream work can enhance and facilitate each other as well as enrich the therapeutic process. The authors suggest that the integration of these approaches provide the most comprehensive guidelines for the use of dreams in psychotherapy as unique sources of salient information about a patient's internal and external world.