Journal of Psychiatry

The gift of animals: guided imagery and psychotherapy with pets

28^th International Conference on Psychiatry & Psychology Health

May 06-07, 2019 | Amsterdam, Netherlands

Mohammad Imaduddin Farooqui

Christ University, India

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Psychiatry

Abstract:

Guided imagery is a technique wherein the therapist guides the client through an active imagination. Though it is an age-old technique, its utility with other novel forms of therapy is not fully explored. In this study, key ideas and techniques are presented that combine guided imagination with animals along with different forms of psychotherapy. Pets/animals are used as images with various forms of therapies like cognitive behavior therapy; solution-focused brief therapy, and interpersonal therapy. The imagery of pets or animals can also be employed in art therapy, making it a very versatile tool to aid healing. These therapies have wide applicability across various mental disorders which are not limited to anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The technique of guided imagery as a skill-building and problem-solving tool is also discussed. All the techniques and their benefits are addressed with support from numerous real-life case studies. The instructions and the approach to each technique for a successful application are also laid down in the paper along with a few scripts for guided imagery for individual therapies. Limitations and contraindications are also listed. The implications of these techniques are widespread and their employment with existing psychotherapies is an adjunct to recovery.

Biography :

Mohammad Imaduddin Farooqui is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology after completing a Bachelor’s degree in MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) from Dr. NTR University India. His keen interest is to work with Animals in Counseling and Psychotherapy. He has conducted workshops regarding Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) at various international conferences including ICSFP-2018. In addition, he has presented posters and papers on Mental Health and won the best paper award for presenting his thesis at the 3rd International Conference “Future of Mental Health: Importance of Integrated Approach".

E-mail: mohd.farooqui@psy.christuniversity.in