NOVEMBER 2009, Volume 37 Number 2, Article 6
FAMILY SYSTEMS THERAPY IN THE FOURTH DIMENSION: A THEORETICAL MODEL FOR THERAPY OF THE PAST LIFE TYPE
Paul W. Schenk, Private Practice, Tucker, Georgia
The author presents a layered genogram model for conceptualising and utilising hypnotic phenomena of the “past life” type. An earlier article (Schenk, 1999) discussed a different model which bypasses the question of reincarnation by interpreting the client’s “waking dream” as a purely metaphorical projection from the unconscious. The model presented here incorporates reincarnation concepts by adding a fourth dimension to family systems models of psychotherapy. The article then applies the model to several case studies to demonstrate some of its clinical applications. Whether the hypnotic imagery is understood as factual or symbolic, a growing body of literature indicates that treatment strategies associated with therapy of the past life type can be effective in treating Axis I symptoms which have not responded to other treatment approaches. These techniques can also bring about, albeit more slowly, durable Axis II personality changes similar to those seen as sequellae of near-death experiences. Just as hypnotic regression in the current life includes the possibility of any of four types of inaccurate memory, including “false memories” arguably derived from suggestions made by the therapist, therapists are advised to carefully address this issue with clients. With the two models as theoretical foundations, the author hopes to stimulate more widespread research into the therapeutic implications of these hypnotic techniques, independent of either the therapist’s or client’s beliefs about reincarnation.