The 'senses' know best: Exploring the role of Life Code Matrix™ in accessing individual strengths and improving personal relationships.

Abstract

Life Code Matrix™ (LCM) is a strengths-based practice presently used by some counsellors in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. It is unique in its intentional use of the senses to identify strengths. This paper investigates the role of LCM in accessing individual strengths and improving personal relationships. It presents the results of research undertaken using a narrative approach that was designed to provide an independent evaluation of the use of LCM in practice. Fifteen adults were interviewed before and after completing the LCM process. Results indicate that most participants were easily able to identify strengths, which led to improved personal relationships. A striking finding was that many participants experienced a sense of ease in relationships that had formerly been problematic. The authors discuss these promising findings, highlighting the implications of both LCM and other contemporary sensory approaches for future counselling practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] Copyright of New Zealand Journal of Counselling is the property of New Zealand Association of Counsellors and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)