A Clinician’s Guide to Dream Therapy: Implementing Simple and Effective Dreamwork

by Leslie Ellis, Leah Lyon (Illustrator)

A Clinician’s Guide to Dream Therapy demystifies the process of working with dreams by providing both a grounding in the current science of dreaming as well as a simple, practical approach to clinical dream work. In addition to a survey of the current science and neuroscience of dreaming, this book includes clinical examples of specific techniques with detailed transcripts and follow-up commentary. Chapters cover how to work with PTSD nightmares and how to use experiential dreamwork techniques drawn from current neuroscience to engender lasting change. Readers will be able to discuss their clients’ dream material with confidence, armed with an approach that helps them collaboratively tap into the inherent power for change found in every dream. Backed by research, common factors analysis and neuroscience, the approaches described in this book provide a clear map for clinicians and others interested in unlocking the healing power inherent in dreams.

Genres: Counselling

147 pages, Paperback

First published August 7, 2019

Reviews

[Kasia J · Rating 4 out of 5]

Leslie Ellis is such a skilled dream clinician! She compiles research that herself and her colleagues have done and presents it in a very accessible way for clinicians and non-clinicians to use. Her nightmare protocol alone bears a glance from anyone experiencing or working with PTSD. Her approaches are empowering for those looking to have more of a relationship with their dream lives, and she has given me a lot to think about for myself and my clients.

[Amy Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leslie Ellis has a beautiful voice. Spending time with this book feels like stepping into a kind of dreamscape in itself. It captures the enigmatic, the mysterious, the uncertain and the soulful depth of dream work. I’ve incorporated her thinking and approach into my therapeutic work and often refer back to her writing as a guide to my own soul work. Thanks Leslie

[Renee Sanguinetti · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a very thorough and complete look at current dreamwork practices. Incredibly helpful and presented in an engaging and relevant way. I have woven some thoughts into my current dream group, so thank you!

[Trever Sangster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was having a wonderful time going through this book. The references to how the brain right and left hemispheres work as well as connections to creative approaches like art therapy have made it an interesting read. It has expanded the way I think about and work with dreams.

[Shauna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A concise and thoughtful examination of the research related to dreams and how to incorporate dream work in your own clinical practice. A must for anyone getting started.

[LaShanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. I would have like it to be a little more helpful in understanding working with dreams as a clinician.

[Michael Kulyk · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's okay, a bit too broad and vague in the approach to understanding dreams, not as good as Gayle Delaney's much more systematic approach to dreams. Wouldn't recommend.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you intend to invite dreams and nightmares into therapeutic work - which the research is showing to be crucial to mental health - this is a must read guide.