The psychological exercise “My Dream” is one of the methods aimed at helping individuals gain a deeper understanding of their aspirations, desires, and life goals. The psychologists at our Hope and Healing Center frequently use this technique during art therapy sessions with children who have experienced trauma due to the War. The essence of the exercise is for the child to describe their dream and ideal future. It’s crucial to vividly imagine what happens when the dream comes true, focusing on their feelings, living conditions, and surroundings, and depict it all through art.

Our psychologist, Svitlana Borsuk, witnessed the effectiveness of this method when she invited 16-year-old Oleh (name changed) to sculpt his dream out of air-dry clay. The boy came to our center after escaping from the occupation, and the experiences he endured so affected him that he believed he had lost his future forever. Because of this, Oleh had insomnia, experienced negative emotions, and struggled with his studies.

Working with the clay and recalling the happiest moments from his childhood at home, Oleh was able to remember what he once dreamed of. These memories became the first step toward his recovery. The teenager began to dream again and regained faith in his abilities. His process of adaptation accelerated, his emotional state stabilized, and he was able to make plans for a new life.

The “My Dream” exercise demonstrated how creativity can help find the strength to move forward, even after difficult experiences.

***
Consultations are provided within the program Comprehensive Psychological Assistance for Children and Families Affected by the War and implemented as part of the USAID project Building a Sustainable Public Health System with the support of Pact, aimed to provide psychological support to displaced adults and children who have experienced trauma.