Conference Agenda

The Internal Multi-Actor Performance (IMAP) method is a dialogical, narrative approach grounded in Dialogical Self Theory, particularly the metaphor of the “self as a theater of voices” (Hermans, 2006). IMAP invites clients to externalize internal positions as fictional actors on an imagined mental stage, allowing these voices to enter dialogical exchanges marked by positioning, counter-positioning, negotiation, and coalition building. Through this narrative process, dominant and distressing voices are explored, deconstructed, and gradually repositioned within a more pluralistic and dialogical self-organization. Methodologically, IMAP unfolds across four evolving stages: Thesis, Antithesis, Synthesis, and Meta-thesis (Gkantona, 2023). First, the dominant problematic voice is articulated in monological form (Thesis). Next, counter-positions are developed (Antithesis), bringing internal conflict and dialogical tension into focus. In Synthesis, multiple voices are introduced, enabling new coalitions and “meaning bridges” among different I-positions. Finally, Meta-thesis supports the emergence of a reflective meta-position from which the client can observe, coordinate, and reorganize internal dialogues. This presentation illustrates IMAP through the case of a hospitalized adolescent diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Within the psychiatric setting, her internal dialogues were explored through drawing and dialogical reflection: she visually represented distinct I-positions and then discussed them in therapy. This process highlighted dominant self-critical and controlling voices alongside marginalized vulnerable positions. IMAP supported the development of compassionate counter-positions and a more dialogical self-construction, contributing to increased psychological flexibility and agency.

Reflective practice is widely regarded as essential in counselling and psychotherapy for practitioners and trainees alike. It underpins clinical training and continuing professional development and contributes to the formation of professional identity, competence, and self-awareness. This presentation offers reflections on counselling in private practice, drawing on the application of the Internal Multi-Actor Performance method (IMAP) (Gkantona, 2023), an approach grounded in Dialogical Self Theory. Dialogical Self Theory conceptualises the self as “a dynamic multiplicity of relatively autonomous I-positions of the self in an imaginary landscape” (Hermans et al., 1992, p. 28). The self is thus understood as a theatre of voices (Hermans, 2006), with each I-position expressing a distinct perspective that varies in strength and valence. Effective functioning is supported when interactions among these voices develop into a more democratic, polyvocal repertoire. It is the quality of these internal dialogues that may either constrain or promote polyvocality, with the latter associated with enhanced functioning. IMAP operationalises the theatre metaphor by creating conditions for internal interlocutors to enter into dialogue. The method is illustrated through a case example of a client already engaged in therapy. Following a pivotal moment in treatment, the client independently used IMAP outside the therapeutic setting to intentionally bring their inner voices into dialogue, producing a written account. The presentation comments on this account and considers the clinical significance of dialogical techniques, with particular attention to the client’s agency as demonstrated through self-directed engagement in the method. In conclusion, these reflections highlight how Dialogical Self Theory and IMAP can inform therapeutic work by supporting therapists in tailoring their approach to clients’ individuality and by helping clients attune to, and actively engage with, the evolving dynamics of their internal multivocality.

The River of Life is a method that conceptualizes identity/self as an evolving life story integrating the remembered past and anticipated future to organize experience, construct meaning, and maintain continuity over time. This story is built from autobiographical memories shaped into a coherent narrative, guided by cultural storylines and personal values. The River of Life method also links memories to internal voices and I-positions, drawing on Dialogical Self Theory. Participants represent their lives as a river, marking turning points, influential people and contexts, obstacles and losses, resources, and growth periods. The drawing anchors guided reflection and group dialogue, helping participants identify salient I-positions tied to key events (e.g., persevering, self-doubting, responsible) and examine which voices are dominant or marginalized in their present professional self-understanding. The process links later choices to earlier experiences and clarifies recurring themes, values, and beliefs that guide future direction. The River of Life method was implemented in the psychoeducational program Constructing My Professional Map to strengthen psychology students’ professional identity. Psychologists facilitated group sessions with undergraduate senior psychology students in two Greek universities. Evaluation was conducted through a brief qualitative end-of-session procedure.