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The White Whale: A Case Study
Author(s) -
Spiller Vanessa
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
australian and new zealand journal of family therapy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.297
H-Index - 19
eISSN - 1467-8438
pISSN - 0814-723X
DOI - 10.1002/j.1467-8438.2005.tb00673.x
Subject(s) - whale , white (mutation) , dream , project commissioning , psychology , variety (cybernetics) , publishing , psychoanalysis , history , social psychology , sociology , psychotherapist , environmental ethics , art , ecology , philosophy , literature , biochemistry , chemistry , artificial intelligence , biology , computer science , gene
Towards the end of counselling with Steven, a 13‐year‐old Aboriginal adolescent, he dreamed of being lost at sea and then found by a white whale. The whale carried him to safety; specifically, into the care of his current foster family. This ending is full of symbolism and seems to promise positive and uncomplicated outcomes. However, counselling is rarely straightforward, and this case study is no exception. It explores a complex journey though therapy, full of challenges and discomfort, not only for Steven and myself, but also for the variety of other supportive players in his life. The outcome, although nowhere near as dramatic as his dream, I believe reflects meaningful change for this young man.