Dreamwork is a general self-help method that can be aided by a therapist and refers to the systematic inquiry into or use of dreams for the purpose of healing or self-development. It is an ancient approach integrated by various practitioners into self-help and psychotherapy methods. Dreamwork strives to examine the many different emotions and images that are elicited from a dream while refraining from identifying one specific purpose or message of the dream. This is one way in which dreamwork approaches therapy from a different perspective than classical dream interpretation. By leaving the meaning of the dream unnamed, it gives it the ability to continue living. This provides the opportunity for the clinician and client to revisit the dream and interpret it on different levels and from different perspectives.
One of the core principles in dreamwork is that every person speaks their dreams in their own unique dream language. No two dreams can ever be viewed the same way if they were dreamt by two different people. Each dreamer will view their own particular dream symbols from the specific point in time they are currently in and through the situations that encompass their lives. Because of this, the therapist embraces the idea of “not knowing” and encourages the client to aspire to the same level of thinking. This allows for complete objectivity in the examination of the elements of each dream.
Group Dreamwork Sessions
In group settings, the facilitator, often referred to as the dreamworker, will not offer any conjecture or interpretations until all questions have been asked, answered and examined. At that point, the facilitator will preface his interpretation with a non-obligatory remark that infers that he is not making direct recommendations, rather objective interpretations. There are often multiple interpretations and comments within a group. Often times, the dreamers themselves will not realize the value or weight of the comments until long after the session. Many dreamers come to see the application of the interpretation only when new situations arise that cause them to reflect on the dreamwork.
