The Use of Expressive Techniques in Counseling

This manuscript explores and identifies the use of expressive techniques in counseling. Although verbal techniques are important, sometimes the best of verbal techniques are not sufficient. Creative, expressive techniques can add a new, important dimension to counseling. Such expressive techniques as cinema, art, and music are described to help counselors deal with ethical dilemmas, grief and loss, and substance abuse. These techniques can assist counselors and their clients in reframing ideas, shifting perspectives, externalizing emotion, and deepening an understanding of an experience or an issue.