Systemic tool · Floating objects
Floating objects in systemic therapy
“Floating objects” are fascinating supports in systemic therapy, designed to enrich communication and understanding within families and couples. Developed by Yveline Rey and Philippe Caillé, these tools open up new perspectives for approaching complex relational dynamics.
What is a floating object?
Floating objects are systemic interview techniques that act as mediators in the therapeutic relationship. They create an intermediate space in which participants can explore their interactions and emotions in a symbolic, metaphorical way. These methods make it easier to express feelings that are often hard to put into words, paving the way for better mutual understanding and for possibilities of change.
Examples of floating objects
Among the most commonly used floating objects are:
The family coat of arms
Creating a coat of arms representing the family’s values, beliefs and history. This process lets family members reflect together on their collective identity and on the dynamics that bind them.
Family sculptures
Physically representing family relationships using the participants’ bodies or symbolic objects. The technique offers a concrete visualisation of positions and interactions within the family system, helping people become aware of relational patterns.
Systemic tales
The therapist and family members co-create a metaphorical tale reflecting the family dynamics. This narrative creates distance and lets issues be approached from a different angle, opening the door to new interpretations and solutions.
The systemic game of the goose
A playful, symbolic adaptation of the famous board game, specifically designed to explore relational dynamics.
Integrating floating objects into your practice
For professionals wishing to integrate these methods into their practice, it is essential to train properly and to understand the principles underlying each tool.
The book Les Objets flottants — Méthodes d’entretiens systémiques (“Floating objects — systemic interview methods”) by Philippe Caillé and Yveline Rey is a precious resource for deepening these concepts and their clinical application.
Discover more with Yveline Rey
For an in-depth exploration of floating objects, I invite you to watch my conversation with Yveline Rey. We discuss the origin of these techniques, how to implement them in practice and their impact on family dynamics. Whether you are a mental health professional or simply curious about systemic approaches, this conversation — in French — is below.
How to cite this article
Besse, J. (2024, November 24). Floating objects in systemic therapy. Complexe Systémique. https://app.complexe-systemique.com/en_GB/articles/floating-objects-in-systemic-therapy
To go further
- Floating objects in systemic therapy: the family coat of armsWhen the couple or family draws its coat of arms: motto, past, present and projects.
- Amour Monstre: a playful floating object for relational therapyThe card game designed by Ivy Daure to mediate the relationship in therapy.
- Sewing buttons: a floating object for systemic family therapySimple sewing buttons become supports for representing family bonds in the session.
- Meeting Yveline Rey, a pioneer of systemic family therapyThe Confidences de thérapeutes episode with the co-creator of the floating objects.
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