Radmila Lorencová

Power animal journeying in Western psychotherapy: Applications, therapeutic safety, and future promises

EXPLORE April 14, 2026 Radek Trnka, Arnost Krtek, Radmila Lorencová

Power animal journeying, a guided imagery technique from shamanic traditions, may help clients uncover hidden inner resources, enhance self-understanding, facilitate emotional processing, and deepen the therapeutic alliance with psychotherapists. However, it carries risks for clients with past trauma, psychotic disorder, paranoid schizophrenia, or autism spectrum disorder. Fourteen licensed psychotherapists and counselors were interviewed, and thematic analysis identified both potential benefits and the need for systematic support, clinical sensitivity, and follow-up integration of experiences. The method shows promise for wider use in Western therapy if properly managed.