The Use of Visuospatial Constructs in the Treatment of Thought Disorder: A Case in Point

摘要

A non-Euclidean form of mathematics known as topology may enhance traditional forms of verbal therapy by supplementing their content with a conceptual system designed to engage the visuospatial code. Glass and Holyoak (2004) have cited cognitive research which indicates that the visuospatial processing of information leads to increased recall of material over extended recall attempts, while recall of verbal material alone is less effective over extended recall attempts. Although mere recollection of the material worked through in therapy is not sufficient for change, all psychotherapies require that the individual recall and assimilate time and again material from the therapy hour and impart to it a certain meaning in the course of daily life (Wedding & Corsini, 2005). During therapy, a structured visuospatial component may facilitate this process as information will be routed through a greater portion of the cognitive-perceptual complex. This paper addresses the effectiveness of the Topological Representation Tool, or TRT, (Woods, 2010) as a visuospatial supplement to traditional verbal therapies with persons suffering from thought disorder. Case material, perceived patient-therapist benefits and logistical considerations for use of the instrument are presented