Show me! Using digital figures to facilitate conversations in systemic therapy

Abstract

This paper is about the value of using small figures and props in systemic therapy and presents two novel digital programs designed for data tablets and personal computers. People in my Life and Play of Life have been developed independently by the authors to facilitate communication and insight and they are presented together with their different theoretical and methodological backgrounds and brief case studies. The authors point to the general contribution of figures in conversation and comment on why digital versions can also have their place in a therapist’s repertoire, no matter what their approach. Practitioner points Presenting two novel digital methods for systemic therapy Provision of visual, spatial, and temporal cues can enhance therapeutic conversations with clients with a range of communication styles and abilities Active and playful digital methods can engage children and families in systemic practice

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