Transactional Analysis (TA) is a big part of what we do at The Wellness Project. It is a creative, accessible and powerful theory developed by psychiatrist Eric Berne. Here are some of the key ideas and ways it might help you:
I’m OK, You’re OK
TA therapy works from the philosophical base, ‘I’m OK, You’re OK.’ This means I will approach you from a place of unconditional positive regard and deep respect. And as a client, you are invited to be a full and active participant in the process. The work is co-created from a non-judgmental place of equality.
Life Script
In childhood we develop an unconscious life plan in order to get our needs met. This is called your Life Script. It is both a brilliant survival plan and can also hold us back. TA therapy aims to uncover and resolve limiting aspects of Life Script.
Permissions
TA therapists work with Permissions. Permissions are powerful antidotes to the negative commands we receive unconsciously in childhood. Permissions are part of a collection of therapeutic tools called the 3Ps. The other Ps are Potency and Protection. They are important in supporting a client through transformation and change.
Contract
TA is contractual. This is a really important aspect to the practice. It means there is a shared understanding of why you are here and where we are heading. It ensures we make the best use of our time together.
Autonomy
The aim of TA psychotherapy is Autonomy. Autonomy is much more than just independence as the word alone suggests. Autonomy is the TA way to describe a rich and fulfilling life and reaching Autonomy involves the recovery of three important capacities: Awareness, Spontaneity and Intimacy. Regardless of the issue you are facing, getting closer towards Autonomy will help you to feel more present and connected.
Psychological Games
As human beings we limit our happiness by playing psychological Games. We all do it and you might even recognize what type of Game you like to play. Are you a Rescuer always wondering why you do so much for others but don’t get your own needs met? Or maybe you tend to get angry and blame others when things get tough? TA therapy can help liberate you from these repetitive patterns of behavior and bad feeling. Berne designed TA to help his clients, ‘put a new show on the road’.
