A Gordon metaphor (not a generic story) would go like this:
The process where the listener "searches" their own experience to make sense of the metaphor, effectively applying the story to themselves.
While some therapists are naturally talented storytellers, Gordon provides a system that allows anyone to construct effective metaphors. david gordon therapeutic metaphors pdf
Gordon’s framework relies on the premise that the unconscious mind processes reality through symbols and analogies. A therapeutic metaphor acts as a parallel universe. Because the story is explicitly about someone else —a fictional character, an animal, or a historical figure—the client's conscious guard drops. They do not feel judged or threatened. Meanwhile, the unconscious mind recognizes the structural similarities to its own situation and quietly absorbs the underlying solution. The Isomorphism Model: Crafting the Parallel Reality
A story without a resolution is just an anecdote. A therapeutic metaphor must provide a path forward. You must determine what resources, insights, or behavioral changes the client needs to resolve their issue. This becomes the climax and resolution of your story. 4. Constructing the Bridge (The Transderivational Search) A Gordon metaphor (not a generic story) would
Once the problem is established in the story, the characters must begin to access "resources." Resources are emotional states, insights, or physical skills required to resolve the issue. The therapist embeds these resources into the narrative, showing how the character discovers or develops them. 3. The Bridge (The Strategy)
"If you or someone you know needs support, here is a global starting point: Togetherall (free peer support) or The Hotline (for domestic abuse: 1-800-799-7233). Comment your local go-to resources below." A therapeutic metaphor acts as a parallel universe
: Gordon details how to deconstruct a client's problem—identifying key players, dynamics, and obstacles—and rebuild it into a "paralleling" story.
The metaphorical protagonist discovers a new tool, changes their perspective, or receives unexpected advice. This represents the internal resource the client needs to activate.
Translate the real-world elements into metaphorical equivalents. Ensure that the relationships between characters in the story match the relationships in the client’s life.