Post-trauma dreams

Margaret Bowater

doi:10.9791/ajpanz.2000.05

Margaret Bowater

DOI: https://doi.org/10.9791/ajpanz.2000.05

Abstract

Post-trauma dreams are sufficiently different from the usual symbolic nightmare to merit particular attention. Two examples are given: one from Shakespeare, and another from the author's experience. Characteristic patterns are summarised, based on research by Hartmann, Siegel, and Stoddard et. al, indicating the normal process by which such dreams evolve into nightmares. Guidelines are suggested for dreamwork to assist clients' recovery, including taking note of the 'stuck points' signalled by repetitive elements in their dreams, and underlying issues in their philosophy of life.

Author Biography

Margaret Bowater

As recorded in 2000.

Margaret M. Bowater is a member of the NZAP and a Provisional Teaching and Supervising member of the International Transactional Analysis Association. She has been running dream workshops in the public arena since 1986, mainly under the auspices of the Human Development and Training Institute of New Zealand, of which she is a co-director. In 1997 her book, Dreams and Visions - Language of the Spirit, was published by Tandem Press in New Zealand, and subsequently re-published in the U.S.A. by The Crossing Press. She can be contacted by email at mbowater@clear.net.nz