Metaphors are used as a powerful tool to help clients explore their current state of being, gain insight into their thoughts and feelings, and understand their experiences in a new way by providing a more accessible and symbolic way to access deeper emotions and patterns, allowing for richer exploration and self-awareness; essentially, metaphors act as a bridge between the conscious and unconscious mind, enabling clients to better understand their internal experiences.

Get ready to learn about all things related to therapeutic metaphors! This workshop will introduce learners to the therapeutic benefits of metaphors that can enhance all aspects of work with diverse clients. We will explore specific metaphors such as passengers on the bus, the clipboard, the swimming pool, and tug of war that can be incorporated right away into treatment with clients who experience depression, anxiety, and trauma. 

Upon completion of this training participants will be able to:

Explain at least three therapeutic benefits of using therapeutic metaphors and assess appropriateness with clients.

Identify at least five therapeutic metaphors that can assist in treatment of clients who experience depression, anxiety and trauma.

Social workers completing this course receive 1.5 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.

For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 1.5 hours of Clinical continuing education training.

Course Instructor: Diane Bigler, LCSW, LSCSW

Recording Date: 04/14/2025