Cards as a therapeutic language

Using metaphorical cards in psychotherapy

 For the last 10 years I have been using my therapeutic cards in various therapeutic settings. Such cards are known by different names: therapeutic cards, metaphoric cards, associative cards, projective cards, coaching cards and more. I find the use of cards to be a powerful tool for therapists, facilitators, educators and coaches.

 I developed a toolbox, Family Circles Cards, while working with families, couples, co-parents and groups on relationship issues. These cards have benefited me as a therapist, they are an inspirational addition to my toolbox as they greatly helped my clients. I designed these cards as a flexible, yet a very targeted tool for mental health professionals who work with individuals, couples and groups. Each card includes an illustration and a word or a phrase. The cards are unique in the specific way they are making use of metaphoric associations and of whimsical imagination. They can be used with kids, adolescents and adults and can be used in multiple ways throughout the sessions to create insights and meaningful moments in therapy. Cards have been known to add layers and dimensions to the therapeutic process. Each of these dimensions enriches and deepens my interaction with my clients and groups.

 Visualization - Therapeutic cards provide a visual “map” to surface issues in conversations.

When dealing with very complex emotional issues and trying to create a process in search for solutions, such a “map” helps clients talk about sensitive issues and understand each person’s perspective. It also creates an awareness of new connections and insights.  For example: when I explore a conflict within the family - let’s say separation or divorce - we can better visualize the issue using cards to illustrate each person’s point of view.

I can ask the parents and the children to each choose 3 cards that represents their biggest challenges with the situation. The parents and kids each choose cards, or share the same cards if they have shared concerns. Each member of the family explains why that specific card is relevant. Everyone hears each other’s challenges. They see whether they are similar or how they are different. Many times the choice of cards surprises the other participant. The family gains a clearer awareness of the problems and new options surface.

Every member of the family has a voice when presenting a chosen card. I make a record of the choices for later reference and process.

Movement – Using cards create movement in therapeutic interaction

Movement in therapy is important as it creates a healthy dynamic in the therapeutic process. I find that even simple movement like change in seating, standing up, walking, stretching and change in posture can have a major impact on the process. It gives me an opportunity to observe the movement and body language and gain more information. When I am using therapeutic cards, I encourage movement by placing them away from the area where we are sitting. When I work with groups, I create small sub-groups to split off and do an exercise with cards in separate locations in the room. Also, if I feel stuck, as all of us sometimes do, I use cards as a tool to redirect the session because it provides a change of pace and context.

 Reflection – metaphoric cards let us look at the inner world of the clients

Using cards creates a new and fresh dialog that allows the forming of connections in an authentic and experiential way, equipping the participants with new a language. Because the cards are metaphorical, they create a secure space for experiencing and expressing emotions and connecting to the issue we explore.  It allows me to go deeper with my clients. The cards may reflect on childhood memories, on trauma, on relationships in the family or in the work place. The cards that are chosen give me clues by their symbolic representations that are further described by the person who chooses the card.

 Creativity  - Cards expand creativity

Metaphors help clients think and look at things in new ways. When we present words and illustrations, each concentrates on another side of the brain. By combining these two elements, we bridge both hemispheres of the brain creating a link between feeling and thinking. For people who have problems expressing their feelings, or voicing their thoughts, the cards work as a catalyst. I ask them to pick a card representing their own strength and use that as a Segway to discuss overcoming trauma, pain and arrive at self-expression. There are many creative ways to work with cards to create a change in the narrative of the clients. This process enriches both my clients’ and my therapeutic vocabulary and is a powerful enhancer.

 Participation - Therapeutic cards can encourage client participation

In my work, I have clients who dominant the session while others are shy and reserved. Some participants in my groups have difficulties expressing themselves in English and are uncomfortable to speak in front of others. I find that using metaphoric cards provides a useful tool that encourages clients to focus and overcome such obstacles. My experience shows that people are intrigued by the therapeutic cards and, through them, find a way to communicate and participate. Often, I use the cards creating role-plays so that the clients can experience a different way of participation through a more experiential method. This allows me to expand my own interaction with clients and find out about what drives their choices and way of thinking.

 In summary, the use of therapeutic cards, allows me to explore the verbal and non-verbal cues of my clients. I can increase participation, creativity and feeling of safety in the space we occupy. Create movement and visualization in therapy can reveal issues that would otherwise remain obscured and hidden. Pairing images with words can initiate a dialog while the symbolic representation of the card expands the therapeutic talk, letting me see more of the clients’ process. I find it to be an essential and invaluable tool in my work in many therapeutic settings. The possibilities and activities and techniques using my Family Circle Cards are endless and provide an inspiring and flexible tool.