Story Image Therapy
Story Image Therapy
Story Image Therapy (SIT) is a psychodynamic psychotherapy developed by Dr. Toula Gordillo.[1] It integrates elements of art therapy, dream analysis, and therapeutic storytelling to help individuals, particularly those who disengage from traditional therapy.
Development and Influences
SIT is based on two main psychological and philosophical traditions:
The therapy follows a self-help model, making it a flexible method to use with other types of therapy.[2]
SIT Tools
Dr. Toula Gordillo developed different Story Image Therapy tools, including:
- Books
- Audiobooks
- Posters
- Handouts
- Archetypal cards
These tools contain symbolic stories and images from early psychology, philosophy, and nature-based therapy. They are made for self-directed therapy and for teachers who give mental and behavioral health education.[3]
Key Publications
Shadows of Sylvaheim
A young adult mythic fantasy novel and audiobook that helps people recognize and understand their adolescent shadow self. The book includes themes such as:[4]
- Parent-child conflict
- Poverty
- Bullying
- Drug and alcohol use
- Infidelity
The Rise of Jung in Me
An autobiographical book based on Jungian action research. It describes the author's personal journey and six case studies about how SIT is used to help with:[5]
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- ADHD
Frog and Scorpion SIT Shadow Work™ Series
A collection of books that apply SIT principles to different life situations:
- Frog and Scorpion in the Boardroom – Workplace stress and conflict
- Frog and Scorpion in the Bedroom – Relationship and intimacy issues
- Frog and Scorpion in the Living Room – Family conflicts
SIT Shadow Work™
SIT Shadow Work™ is a spiritual version of Story Image Therapy. It helps people understand unconscious patterns that affect their mental health. The therapy has three stages:[6]
- Shadow Recognition
- Shadow Embrace
- Shadow Integration
This process helps people recognize unresolved emotional conflicts and self-sabotaging behaviors.
Applications and Reach
SIT and SIT Shadow Work™ are used in:
- Schools
- Healthcare centers
- Private organizations
The therapy is practiced in Australia, New Zealand, and India.[7]
Shadow Work Solutions
Shadow Work Solutions is a holistic health organization founded by Dr. Toula Gordillo. It offers:
- Workshops and training on adolescent healing
- Workplace and business psychology programs
- Therapeutic writing for self-empowerment
See Also
References
- ↑ Dr. Toula Gordillo Official Website. Retrieved 2025-02-08.
- ↑ Suncoast Health Centre - Dr. Toula Gordillo Profile. Retrieved 2025-02-08.
- ↑ Dr. Toula Gordillo - ResearchGate Profile. Retrieved 2025-02-08.
- ↑ Shadows of Sylvaheim by Dr. Toula Gordillo. Retrieved 2025-02-08.
- ↑ Dr. Toula Gordillo - ResearchGate Profile. Retrieved 2025-02-08.
- ↑ Suncoast Health Centre - Dr. Toula Gordillo Profile. Retrieved 2025-02-08.
- ↑ Google Scholar - Dr. Toula Gordillo. Retrieved 2025-02-08.