Metaphors

Abstract

Abstract Psychotherapy has been described as “the talking cure,” so it is perhaps not surprising that much has been said about the use of metaphor as a facilitator of client change. Therapists’ use of metaphor in psychotherapy is ubiquitous. However, compared to theoretical and clinical claims about the potential effectiveness of using metaphor, research investigations pose challenges and remain relatively sparse. This chapter provides examples of metaphors in sessions and then systematically reviews the empirical literature. This research suggests that collaborative co-elaboration of metaphors with clients is related to positive in-session client outcomes, particularly cognitive engagement. Future research might benefit from a more in-depth focus on the process and impacts of using metaphors. The chapter draws out implications from the research for diversity considerations, clinical training, and psychotherapy practice.