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Therapist training, feedback, and practice for dream work: a pilot study
Rachel E Crook-Lyon1, Clara E Hill, Christian L Wimmer
1Counseling Psychology Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602-9053, USA. rachel_crooklyon@byu.edu
Psychological Reports
|October 9, 2009
Summary
Therapist training in a cognitive-experiential dream work model significantly boosted self-efficacy and positive attitudes toward dreams. Individual feedback further improved dream work sessions and therapist competence.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Counseling
- Psychotherapy
Background:
- Dream work is an integral part of many therapeutic modalities.
- Training therapists in specific dream work models can enhance therapeutic outcomes.
- The cognitive-experiential model offers a structured approach to dream analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a cognitive-experiential dream work training program for therapists.
- To assess the impact of didactic-experiential workshops and individual feedback on therapist self-efficacy and attitudes toward dreams.
- To examine changes in therapist competence and perceived self-efficacy in dream work.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 13 therapists in master's or doctoral counseling programs received training.
- Training involved a didactic-experiential workshop, individual feedback, and practice sessions.
- Effect sizes were calculated to measure changes in self-efficacy, attitudes, and competence.
Main Results:
- Therapists showed substantial increases in self-efficacy and slight improvements in attitudes toward dreams post-workshop.
- Individual feedback after the first dream session led to better process and outcomes in the second session.
- Therapists conducting multiple sessions demonstrated improved attitudes, self-efficacy, and perceived competence in dream work.
Conclusions:
- The cognitive-experiential dream work model training is effective in enhancing therapist self-efficacy and attitudes.
- Individualized feedback is a valuable component for improving the dream work process and outcomes.
- Continued practice and feedback contribute to increased therapist competence and confidence in dream work.
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